Category: Latest Updates

Stay ahead with the latest UAE news and breaking updates from Hyphen Digital Network. From business and tech to culture and innovation, Arabian Post delivers trusted, real-time coverage across the Emirates. Your go-to source for insightful journalism in the UAE.

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT

AD Ports Group and the General Authority for the Suez Canal Economic Zone have entered into a significant partnership to develop a state-of-the-art industrial and logistics park at East Port Said, positioned strategically on the Mediterranean coast. The deal, formalised with a 50-year renewable usufruct agreement, is set to transform the region into a global trade and industrial hub, enhancing Egypt's role in the international trade landscape.

The industrial park, spanning

Two Arab-Israeli tourists have been handed lengthy prison sentences by a South Sinai court following their conviction in the fatal stabbing of an Egyptian tour guide at a Red Sea resort, a verdict that has drawn international attention against the backdrop of heightened regional hostilities.

The ruling, delivered on Saturday, found the two individuals guilty of intentionally killing the Egyptian national during a confrontation at a beach resort in

Saudi Arabia is set to maintain its robust initial public offering momentum in 2025, with Riyad Capital projecting up to 46 listings across the Main Market and the Nomu Parallel Market. This outlook comes despite global market volatility driven by US tariffs and trade tensions that have dampened IPO activity in other regions.

Muhammad Faisal Potrik, Head of Sell-Side Research at Riyad Capital, noted that the Saudi Main

EDGE Group, the UAE-based defence conglomerate, has partnered with innovation platform Wazoku to launch a global challenge aimed at discovering the next generation of autonomous drone systems. The initiative seeks to identify breakthrough technologies for the deployment of unmanned aerial vehicles in defence and security environments.

The challenge, officially known as the "Drone in a Box" competition, invites innovators and tech developers from around the world to submit

Arabian Travel Market 2025 concluded on 1 May at the Dubai World Trade Centre, drawing over 55,000 industry professionals from 166 countries—a 16% increase in attendance compared to the previous year. The event featured more than 2,600 exhibitors across 13 halls, reflecting the robust recovery and transformation of the global travel and tourism sector.

This year's theme, “Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity,” underscored the pivotal

Kuwait's Combined Group Contracting Company has secured a significant contract through its UAE subsidiary, CGCC-UAE, to deliver infrastructure maintenance services in Abu Dhabi. The deal, worth approximately 1.012 billion UAE dirhams , has been awarded by leading property developer Aldar Properties. This contract, focused on the Al-Nahda area near the Al-Ain motorway, will run for a period of 914 days, marking a notable

Micropolis Holding Co., a UAE-based robotics and AI firm, has entered into a strategic Memorandum of Understanding with SEE Holding Ltd to integrate advanced artificial intelligence and robotics infrastructure into The Sustainable City 2.0, SEE Holding’s forthcoming urban development model. This collaboration aims to embed intelligent systems into the core operations of the city, enhancing efficiency, sustainability, and resident engagement.

The MoU outlines plans for deploying autonomous

Foreign investments in Gulf stocks have surged in recent years, as nations within the Gulf Cooperation Council continue to transform their economies and capital markets. By the close of 2024, foreign equity inflows are expected to double to $60 billion, a sharp increase from 2022, driven by a combination of regulatory changes and inclusion in the prestigious MSCI Emerging Market Index.

The GCC’s capital markets have experienced substantial growth. Market capitalisation

flynas has entered into an agreement with Safran to outfit its upcoming fleet of 60 Airbus A320neo aircraft with the latest-generation Z200 seats. The memorandum of understanding was formalised during the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai, with deliveries scheduled to commence in the latter half of 2025.

Each aircraft will feature a 174-seat configuration, comprising both Economy and Premium class sections. The Premium section, spanning four rows at

Brazil has made significant strides in modernising its air cargo industry by becoming the first country in the Americas to adopt the electronic air waybill system. This shift marks a critical milestone in the global movement towards digitalisation in air freight, allowing Brazil to enhance its competitiveness in the sector while reducing operational costs. By waving the requirement for a physical air waybill, Brazil has streamlined its

HSBC Holdings Plc has disclosed an anticipated pre-tax loss of up to $1.6 billion following the dilution of its stake in China's Bank of Communications . This development arises from BoCom's private share placement, part of a broader initiative by Chinese state-owned banks to bolster their capital reserves.

The dilution reduces HSBC's holding in BoCom from 19.03% to approximately 16%, a consequence of the Chinese government's strategy to strengthen

Driverless transport options are gaining ground in Abu Dhabi as authorities move to widen the reach of RoboTaxi services across the emirate. The Integrated Transport Centre, operating under Abu Dhabi Mobility, confirmed the expansion of autonomous taxi trials through a strategic collaboration with Autogo, an advanced autonomous mobility solutions provider, and Apollo Go, Baidu’s self-driving platform.

Abu Dhabi Mobility stated that the expansion marks a significant step towards integrating

Majid Al Futtaim Development has officially announced the appointment of main contractors for its two premier residential projects—Plagette 32 and Amara—within the expansive Tilal Al Ghaf community in Dubai. The move signifies a pivotal advancement in the company's commitment to delivering high-end, integrated lifestyle destinations.

Plagette 32, inspired by the French Riviera, is set to offer an exclusive collection of 28 Club Villas and four Water Bungalows. Each

stc Group has been ranked as the top company for career development in Saudi Arabia for 2025 by LinkedIn, reinforcing its position as a major driver of professional advancement in the region. The recognition reflects the telecommunications giant’s continued investment in employee growth, skills enhancement, and leadership opportunities during a period of rapid digital transformation in the Kingdom.

The LinkedIn Top Companies list, published annually, evaluates organisations based on

Lebanon’s government is optimistic about securing a staff-level agreement with the International Monetary Fund within the coming months. The move represents a significant step towards addressing the country’s crippling financial crisis, which has left the Lebanese pound in freefall, unemployment rates soaring, and inflation skyrocketing. The news has brought a flicker of hope for a nation desperate for international assistance, after enduring years of economic turmoil exacerbated

A strong surge in Dubai’s vehicle rental sector has been recorded in 2024, with the Roads and Transport Authority reporting a 43 per cent increase in newly registered commercial vehicles compared to 2023. The authority also noted a substantial 33 per cent rise in the number of newly licensed rental companies, highlighting the emirate’s strengthening position as a regional transport and logistics hub.

The

Temperatures soared close to 50°C across the United Arab Emirates today as fierce dusty winds swept through several areas, amplifying already sweltering conditions and causing widespread disruption. Authorities issued multiple weather alerts, urging residents to take precautions against heat-related illnesses and reduced visibility caused by the dust-laden atmosphere.

The National Centre of Meteorology confirmed that desert regions and inland cities recorded some of the highest temperatures, with Al Dhafra

Dubai-based luxury real estate developer Omniyat Holdings has mandated a consortium of international and regional banks to arrange its inaugural US dollar-denominated green sukuk, marking its entry into the sustainable finance market. The issuance, structured as a three-year fixed-rate senior unsecured sukuk under Regulation S, is poised to attract global investors seeking Sharia-compliant green investment opportunities.

The appointed joint global coordinators for the transaction are ADCB, Citi, ENBD Capital,

Saudi Arabia has surpassed Singapore to become the top destination for venture capital funding among emerging markets, securing $391 million in the first quarter of 2025. This 53 percent year-on-year increase positions the Kingdom ahead of regions including the Middle East, Africa, Pakistan, Türkiye, and Southeast Asia, according to data from venture analytics platform MAGNiTT.

The Kingdom accounted for 58 percent of all venture funding in the Middle

DAMAC Properties has reported a $54.45 million increase in collections, attributing this growth to the strategic integration of artificial intelligence across its operations. The Dubai-based real estate developer has implemented AI-driven tools to enhance customer engagement, streamline marketing efforts, and optimise sales processes, leading to significant financial gains.

Ali Sajwani, Managing Director of Operations and Technology at DAMAC Properties, highlighted the pivotal role of AI in transforming the

Emirates Islamic Bank recorded a significant upswing in profitability in the first quarter of 2025, with net profits rising to AED 1 billion, marking a 23% year-on-year increase from AED 811 million in the corresponding period of 2024. The performance was driven by robust income from both funded and non-funded sources, underlining the bank’s strengthened position in the UAE's competitive banking sector.

Earnings per share reached AED 0.18, up from AED 0.14

Aramco and BYD, two giants in their respective industries, have entered into a strategic partnership aimed at advancing new energy vehicle technologies. The collaboration is expected to drive innovation in the electric vehicle sector, integrating Aramco’s expertise in energy and BYD’s cutting-edge solutions in battery technology.

The partnership comes at a time when the global shift toward clean energy solutions is gaining momentum. With governments around the world

stc Group has reaffirmed its commitment to motorsport by extending its title sponsorship of the Formula 1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix for a fifth consecutive year. The telecommunications giant continues to play a pivotal role in enhancing the race experience through cutting-edge digital solutions.

The renewed partnership underscores stc's dedication to integrating advanced technologies into the event. By deploying fixed mobile 5G communication towers, the company ensures internet speeds

Mubadala Investment Company, Abu Dhabi’s sovereign wealth fund managing assets exceeding $330 billion, has committed $600 million to acquire a minority stake in Nord Anglia Education Ltd., a London-based provider of premium private education services. This investment marks a notable re-engagement with British assets following a period of diplomatic tensions between the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom.

Nord Anglia, operating over 80 schools

Gold prices in Dubai have surged to unprecedented levels, with 24-karat gold breaching the Dh400 per gram mark for the first time, while 22-karat gold has climbed to Dh372.5 per gram. This significant uptick reflects a broader global trend, driven by escalating geopolitical tensions, central bank acquisitions, and concerns over U.S. fiscal policies.

The global spot price of gold has experienced a notable increase, currently trading around $3,024 per

Oman has formalised a landmark agreement to develop the world's first commercial-scale liquid hydrogen corridor, aiming to supply green hydrogen to Europe via the Port of Amsterdam.

The Ministry of Energy and Minerals, alongside Hydrogen Oman , has entered into a Joint Study Agreement with the Port of Amsterdam, Zenith Energy Terminals, and GasLog. This collaboration focuses on establishing a comprehensive supply chain for green hydrogen, encompassing liquefaction, storage,

Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Majid Al Futtaim, the Emirati retail conglomerate, has unveiled a substantial AED 5 billion expansion plan for Dubai's Mall of the Emirates, aiming to enhance its status as a premier shopping and entertainment destination in the Middle East. The project will introduce an additional 20,000 square metres of retail space and accommodate 100 new stores, reinforcing the mall's position in the region's competitive retail landscape. The expansion aligns with Dubai's broader strategy to bolster its infrastructure and tourism

The United States and Saudi Arabia are preparing to sign a preliminary agreement to collaborate on the development of a civil nuclear industry in the Kingdom. This marks a significant step in the two countries' ongoing energy partnership, reflecting shared interests in enhancing the security and sustainability of global energy resources.

US Energy Secretary Chris Wright, addressing reporters in Riyadh, confirmed the impending deal, which

A new report examining sponsored content across major video platforms has highlighted a persistent pay gap between male and female-identifying influencers, with women earning approximately 32% less than their male counterparts. The findings raise concerns about the growing inequalities within the influencer marketing industry, which has become a cornerstone of modern digital advertising.

The report, which analysed data from influencers across a variety of platforms including YouTube, Instagram, and

Dubai-based cargo airline SolitAir has secured its Air Operator Certificate from the United Arab Emirates' General Civil Aviation Authority , marking a significant milestone in its operational expansion. The certification, issued under UAE Civil Aviation Regulations Part V, Chapter 4, authorises SolitAir to operate as a licensed air cargo carrier, following a rigorous evaluation of its operational, safety, and financial standards.

Headquartered at Dubai World Central ,

The European Union and the United Arab Emirates have agreed to commence negotiations for a bilateral free trade agreement, marking a significant shift in their economic relations. This development comes amid global trade uncertainties and reflects both parties' desire to deepen ties across various sectors.

The proposed agreement aims to enhance trade in goods and services, investment, and collaboration in key sectors such as renewable

Sharjah has achieved a groundbreaking milestone in agricultural science by developing a wheat variety with a protein content of 19.3%, the highest recorded globally. This advancement positions the emirate at the forefront of sustainable food production and security.

The wheat, branded as "Saba Sanabel," is cultivated at the Mleiha farm under the supervision of the Sharjah Department of Agriculture and Livestock . The farm employs organic farming techniques, eschewing

Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority has incorporated Light Detection and Ranging technology into its road asset management system to improve maintenance efficiency and data accuracy. This initiative aligns with RTA's commitment to adopting advanced technologies to enhance infrastructure quality and safety.

The LiDAR system employs laser scanning to capture detailed measurements of road surfaces, enabling precise detection of issues such as cracks, subsidence, and potholes. This approach

The United States stock market experienced a significant surge following President Donald Trump's announcement of a 90-day suspension on most newly imposed tariffs. This unexpected policy shift led to a substantial influx of approximately $5.1 trillion into the market, marking one of the most notable rallies in recent history.

On April 9, 2025, President Trump declared a temporary halt to the implementation of new tariffs, with the notable exception of those targeting