News related to
Dubai’s

Dubai Holding has sealed a strategic agreement with Select Group and Emirates Strategic Investments Company to develop flagship residential and mixed‑use communities at Palm Jebel Ali and Dubai Design District. This marks Dubai Holding’s inaugural sale of strategic land at Palm Jebel Ali to an external developer, reflecting the emirate’s ambitious urban growth ambitions.

Select Group, in partnership with ESIC, will manage two major projects: a high‑end waterfront residential and hospitality enclave across seven islands and 16 fronds at Palm Jebel Ali, featuring over 90 km of beachfront spanning 13.4 km; and a dynamic, culture‑driven mixed‑use district in d3 designed to integrate innovation, creativity and modern urban living.

Khalid Al Malik, CEO of Dubai Holding Real Estate, emphasised that Palm Jebel Ali would “elevate Dubai’s global reputation as a premier waterfront destination,” and called the tie‑up with Select Group a critical step in aligning with the emirate’s broader vision under its 2040 Urban Master Plan and Economic Agenda D33. Rahail Aslam, Chairman of Select Group, described the deal as advancing the firm’s strategy to deliver “design‑forward, high‑impact” developments in key growth corridors.

Work on design and planning is underway for both locations, with further specifics on architecture, timelines and phasing due to be released in the coming months. Select Group brings experience from high‑end developments like Six Senses Residences at Palm and Dubai Marina, and Peninsula in Business Bay.

Palm Jebel Ali is being positioned as a new growth corridor in Jebel Ali and will combine luxury coastal living with pedestrian‑friendly, mixed‑use neighbourhoods, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf. d3, recognised globally as part of Dubai’s UNESCO Creative City of Design network, will expand its creative ecosystem, offering residents skyline views including Burj Khalifa and further solidifying Dubai’s reputation as a hub for design and innovation.

The agreement reinforces Dubai Holding’s mission to unlock long‑term value from its master‑planned initiatives by collaborating with private developers and aligns with its goals of sustainable urban expansion. It also complements related infrastructure developments, such as the district cooling joint venture between Dubai Holding Investments and Tabreed at Palm Jebel Ali, initiated in March 2025, aimed at delivering efficient, sustainable cooling capacity expected to commence operations by 2027.

Select Group’s role in the development highlights a strategic evolution from project delivery to comprehensive neighbourhood creation. That approach reflects a growing trend among developers to craft holistic lifestyle destinations rather than standalone buildings. This shift speaks to evolving investor preferences for immersive, value‑oriented environments.

Abu Dhabi has claimed the top spot, with Dubai close behind, in a ranking of 97 global markets compiled by Cushman & Wakefield in its 2025 Global Data Center Market Comparison. The analysis, which evaluated 20 critical factors—from power availability and fibre connectivity to development pipelines and land pricing—places Abu Dhabi first and Dubai second among emerging data centre markets.

The report highlights a surge in demand for digital infrastructure, driven primarily by hyperscalers, cloud providers and burgeoning AI workloads. Abu Dhabi stands out with exceptional scores for power delivery timelines and cost-effective land, placing it at the very top of the emerging markets category. Dubai, closely following, benefits from robust fibre connectivity and an accelerating development pipeline.

Power availability remains the most pivotal concern across the industry. The study indicates that markets with secure, rapid power delivery attract developer attention, particularly where leading markets are experiencing delays in grid expansion. Abu Dhabi’s superior performance in this metric has become a magnet for hyperscale players and colocation operators alike, while Dubai earns marks for its strategic integration of infrastructure and favourable regulatory policy.

Pre-leasing rates further support the UAE’s ascendancy. Both Abu Dhabi and Riyadh report pre-commitments exceeding 70% on under-construction capacity, a figure surpassing most emerging markets and rivalled only by select Western hubs. This signals strong occupier confidence, as large tenants lock in space well ahead of completion.

Regional momentum is reinforced by Research and Markets, which notes that Abu Dhabi currently accounts for nearly 40% of the UAE’s upcoming data centre power capacity, with an additional 60 MW projected by the end of 2025. Sector observers estimate cumulative investment in UAE-based facilities will approach US $2.5 billion by 2026.

Global trends underscore the link between power constraints and shifting demand. While longstanding markets such as Northern Virginia and Chicago continue to dominate in operational capacity, power scarcity is pushing hyperscalers into newer regions. In Europe and APAC, markets with strong power fundamentals—particularly those offering renewable options—have seen elevated pre-leasing and accelerated construction.

In EMEA, nine of the 97 markets reviewed boast pre-lease ratios above 50%, with Milan and Berlin achieving full commitments on live builds. However, Abu Dhabi’s combination of policy support, infrastructure coordination, and land pricing renders it the leading emerging centre. Dubai’s consistent performance spots it firmly in second place.

Local dynamics also support the UAE’s climb. Emerging Middle Eastern hubs benefit from coordinated government strategies: jurisdictions like Abu Dhabi and Dubai leverage economic zones, expedited permitting, and public-private partnerships to secure both digital and energy infrastructure. These are precisely the variables weighed in the 20-factor comparison.

UAE operators are actively building modern facilities to meet new IT standards and power densities. Major entities—including government-backed developers and international names—are focused on deploying Tier III and IV facilities equipped for high-power AI use‑cases. Expectations of sovereign AI zones are further heightening the appeal of these markets among institutional and hyperscale tenants.

Regional competitors, notably Riyadh, also demonstrate strong demand fundamentals. Yet Abu Dhabi and Dubai maintain a lead in deliverability: Abu Dhabi tops the emerging list overall, with superior scores in pre-leasing, fibre availability, and land affordability. Dubai’s edge lies in its connectivity, depth of occupier demand, and policy predictability.

The broader global picture reveals a shift from established hubs to power-rich emerging sites. Worldwide operational IT load now exceeds 40 GW across the tracked markets, yet established centres still dominate capacity. Emerging markets, particularly in the Middle East, have closed ground fast, thanks to streamlined supply chains, liberal regulatory environments, and readiness for power-intensive workloads.

Dubai residents can now view their personal credit report and credit score directly within the DubaiNow app following a newly launched integration with Etihad Credit Bureau. The partnership enables users to access crucial credit information with a single tap—bringing financial insights closer to everyday urban life.

Officials emphasise that this move reflects a strategic direction toward seamless digital service delivery. Marwan Ahmad Lutfi, Director General of Etihad Credit Bureau, underscored the bureau’s commitment to national digital transformation, noting the use of advanced APIs to simplify user access to credit data. Matar Al Hemeiri, CEO of Digital Dubai Government Establishment, added that the integration reinforces Dubai’s position as a hub for digital innovation and aligns with the “We the UAE 2031” vision for a connected, smart society.

DubaiNow, developed by Digital Dubai, offers over 300 services — ranging from bill payments and health records to official documentation. The inclusion of credit reports and scores builds on its role as a one-stop platform for private and government services. This feature eliminates the need for separate logins or visits to multiple platforms—credit information is now readily accessible to users seeking clarity on their financial standing.

Earlier, Etihad Credit Bureau successfully integrated with Abu Dhabi’s TAMM platform, and this step represents a widening push across emirates to bridge credit services with digital portals. Sources highlight that such integrations are part of a broader effort to promote financial literacy, transparency, and empowered decision‑making among residents. Access to credit scores supports informed borrowing and better personal finance management.

Although specific usage metrics have not been disclosed, industry analysts see significant potential. By delivering real-time credit insights directly inside an app used daily by millions, the integration might reduce friction in credit awareness, which could lead to more responsible lending and borrowing—even small improvements in payment discipline or credit visibility can have outsized impact on personal financial health.

Affordability remains a factor: Etihad Credit Bureau’s website lists the cost of a personal credit report at AED 84, with a standalone credit score costing AED 10.50. However, it is not yet clear whether these fees apply within DubaiNow or if special rates have been arranged for app users. Users should check within the app for pricing details.

Security is paramount. Etihad Credit Bureau employs stringent data encryption and authentication measures to protect sensitive credit information. DubaiNow leverages UAE Pass for identity verification, ensuring that only authorised individuals access their own financial data.

The integration occurs amid rapid digital government expansion across the Gulf, where unified platforms are central to delivering frictionless user experience. By adding credit insights to DubaiNow, authorities anticipate a future where financial and administrative services converge—expected to boost efficiency for users and public institutions alike.

Going forward, observers expect Etihad Credit Bureau to extend integration to further emirate-level services and fintech platforms, creating a comprehensive, country-wide credit information network. Proponents argue such a system would enhance economic resilience by embedding credit awareness into everyday digital interactions.

Dubai has been chosen to host SIBOS in 2029, affirming its standing as a global nexus in financial services. The selection reflects growing confidence in its role as a strategic bridge in international banking, marking the beginning of SWIFT’s new hosting rotation featuring emerging financial hubs.

SWIFT—holder of SIBOS, an annual forum for payments, securities, cash management and trade—has scheduled the conference in Frankfurt, Miami, Singapore, and Paris, with Dubai confirmed for 2029. This shift inaugurates a four-year rotation that now includes key regions such as the Middle East, Africa, Latin America and Asia, signalling intent to broaden engagement beyond traditional centres.

This move underscores Dubai’s appeal, anchored in the growth of DIFC, which now hosts nearly 7,000 firms, including the region’s fintech core. SWIFT’s Rosemary Stone emphasised that expanding SIBOS to diverse locations will lend fresh perspectives vital amid accelerating technological shifts and growing fragmentation risks. SWIFT saw record traffic last year, and the conference consistently draws over 10,000 delegates.

UAE Banks Federation and supporting bodies—including DIFC, DWTC, DET and CBUAE—have been credited for bringing SIBOS back to the UAE after its inaugural MENA appearance in 2013. UBF chairman Abdulaziz Al‑Ghurair highlighted that hosting SIBOS 2029 recognises the UAE’s leadership in digital payments innovation and its dedication to payment security and efficiency under CBUAE guidance.

UBF director‑general Jamal Saleh noted that the federation’s National SWIFT User Group, launched in 2021, along with the region’s first SWIFT training centre, have built a strong skill base in payments protocols. He said the bid award demonstrates “global recognition of the UAE’s achievements in payments using advanced technologies under CBUAE’s guidance”.

DIFC’s rapid development since 2004 has turned Dubai into SWIFT’s “Gateway to Africa”, strategically connecting Europe, Asia and Africa. This position enhances Dubai’s role within SWIFT’s network of over 11,500 institutions across more than 200 countries.

Planners are expected to leverage SIBOS’s platform to demonstrate regional innovations, including national payment system strategies, fintech growth, and cyber‑security frameworks. The event offers a showcase for the UAE’s ambitions to expand financial inclusion, digital infrastructure, and regulatory maturity.

The SIBOS win also supports the federal strategy unveiled by the Central Bank in 2019 to enhance customer experience through secure, innovative payment mechanisms. Observers suggest the conference will spotlight initiatives such as real‑time payment, cross‑border settlement solutions, and cloud‑based financial services.

By setting 2029 in Dubai, SWIFT signals that emerging financial ecosystems are not only capable but essential hosts. The planned rotation to include regions beyond the traditional triad marks a pivot in SWIFT’s approach, prioritising breadth of perspective as the global banking system navigates fragmentation.

UBF and its partners have committed to delivering a polished event, guided by rising standards in event production and stakeholder integration. With backing from SWIFT, CBUAE and government tourism authorities, organisers expect delegates to gain both technical insights and policy‑driven dialogue on future‑proofing global finance.

Dubai has welcomed 8.68 million international visitors between 1 January and 31 May 2025, reflecting a 7 per cent increase compared with the 8.12 million who arrived during the same period in 2024, according to the Tourism Performance Report from the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism. In May alone, the city hosted 1.53 million international tourists.

Western Europe emerged as the largest source market, supplying approximately 1.917 million visitors—or 22 per cent of the total. Trailing behind were Russia, the Commonwealth of Independent States and Eastern Europe with around 1.396 million tourists. South Asia contributed 1.242 million visitors, while the Gulf Cooperation Council countries accounted for 1.275 million. The Middle East and North Africa numbers reached 989,000, with Southeast and Northeast Asia, the Americas, Africa and Australia following with 9 per cent, 7 per cent, 4 per cent and 2 per cent shares respectively.

Hotel inventory expanded slightly, reaching 825 establishments with 153,356 rooms by the end of May, up from 822 hotels offering 150,202 rooms a year earlier. Occupancy averaged 83 per cent across the five-month span, climbing two percentage points from 81 per cent in 2024. Total occupied room nights reached 19.09 million, a 4 per cent increase over the previous year’s 18.34 million.

Average visitor stays remained steady at 3.8 nights—even as room rates climbed. The average daily rate rose to AED 620, while revenue per available room increased to AED 513, marking a 7 per cent improvement.

These figures follow a landmark 2024 for Dubai, which attracted a record 18.72 million international overnight visitors—an increase of 9 per cent compared to 17.15 million in 2023. At the close of 2024, hotel capacity stood at 832 properties with 154,016 rooms, confirming the city’s commitment to expanding hospitality infrastructure.

Analysts attribute this growth to strengthened global connectivity, robust destination marketing campaigns and a curated events calendar. In Q1 2025, Dubai recorded a 3 per cent year‑on‑year rise in visitor numbers from 5.31 million in the first quarter of last year. Regional data from the same period finds Western Europe contributing 22 per cent, CIS and Eastern Europe 17 per cent, and GCC countries 15 per cent.

Commenting at the Arabian Travel Market expo, Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, underlined the role of tourism as a gateway for inward investment, talent and trade. He highlighted new partnerships with Amadeus, Premier Inn Middle East and Hyatt, plus training collaborations between the Dubai College of Tourism and Marriott, aimed at enhancing Emirati workforce participation.

Industry observers note that average daily rates in the hospitality sector climbed to AED 647 in Q1, underpinned by stronger ADR and occupancy figures. Sustainable tourism initiatives also gained traction; over 150 hotels have since earned the Dubai Sustainable Tourism Stamp—a 118 per cent year‑on‑year increase.

Dubai’s appeal spans an array of demographics. While Western Europe remains the single largest source market, growth from South Asia, the GCC, CIS countries, and Southeast Asia reflects diversified outreach efforts. Leisure, business travel and high-profile events are all contributing factors.

Capacity expansion has run in parallel with evolving demand. Investments continue not just in hotel rooms but in broadening the tourism ecosystem—spanning cultural attractions, entertainment venues and transport links. Airport infrastructure upgrades and added flight routes further bolster access for key markets.

Despite the sustained momentum, the industry faces challenges including seasonal weather variations, geopolitical volatility and budget competition from other destinations. However, Dubai’s consistently high ADR and RevPAR metrics suggest healthy pricing power across its hospitality sector.

The emirate’s strategy emphasises quality over quantity, focusing on richer, high-yield tourism segments including luxury experiences, MICE, health tourism and eco‑conscious travel. This is aligned with the broader economic vision outlined under the Dubai Economic Agenda, aiming to double the size of the economy by 2033.

Continued collaboration between government bodies, private-sector operators and international partners is central to sustaining this trajectory. As global travel rebounds from pandemic-era disruption, Dubai is leveraging its infrastructure depth, event portfolio and marketing muscle to strengthen its position in the upper echelons of global tourist destinations.

Economic projections for 2025 remain positive. With visitor numbers tracking ahead of last year’s pace and average daily rates increasing, tourism is projected to deliver significant contributions to GDP and related sectors such as transport, retail, entertainment, F&B and real estate.

Dubai welcomed 8.68 million international tourists between January and May 2025, marking a 7 per cent increase over the 8.12 million recorded in the same period last year. The figures, published by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, highlight the emirate’s growing appeal as a global destination.

The surge was fuelled by a record-breaking 1.53 million visitors in May alone, underscoring sustained momentum through spring. Western Europe emerged as the dominant source market, contributing 1.917 million arrivals—or 22 per cent of the total—with Russia, the Commonwealth of Independent States and Eastern Europe supplying 1.396 million. South Asia accounted for 1.242 million and the Gulf Cooperation Council added 1.275 million. Other regions included the Middle East and North Africa with 989,000 visitors, Northeast and Southeast Asia at 771,000, the Americas tallying 601,000, Africa contributing 346,000 and Australia at 141,000.

Hotel capacity in Dubai climbed modestly to 825 establishments offering 153,356 rooms by the end of May, up from 822 hotels and 150,202 rooms in May 2024. Occupancy rose to an average of 83 per cent, compared with 81 per cent the previous year, while occupied room nights reached 19.09 million—a 4 per cent increase.

Visitors stayed for an average of 3.8 nights. The average daily room rate climbed 5 per cent to AED 620, from AED 590 year‑on‑year, and revenue per available room grew 7 per cent, reaching AED 513.

Industry analysts point to an ambitious events calendar and continued upgrade of transport and hospitality infrastructure as key drivers. The city’s record-breaking 2024 performance—18.72 million international arrivals—has been followed by strong early results this year, suggesting a positive trend. By scaling supply and boosting visitor experience, Dubai continues to fortify its position in the global tourism hierarchy.

Efforts to diversify offerings have extended beyond five-star resorts, as mid‑scale and boutique hotels gain prominence. Projects such as the skyscraper‑hotel “Ciel Dubai Marina” reflect innovation in accommodation, although these newer entries have yet to substantially influence overall room numbers.

Air connectivity also remains critical. Emirates Airline and flydubai have expanded routes across Western Europe, South Asia and emerging markets in the CIS, enabling smoother access to Dubai’s attractions. Tourism authorities are collaborating with carriers and event organisers to synchronise offerings with major exhibitions and festivals.

Although occupancy remains high, some operators report margin pressure due to rising operational costs. The steady uptick in RevPAR, however, indicates that value strategies and premium positioning continue to offset cost challenges. Observers note that managing rate inflation while preserving footfall will be key in sustaining growth.

Growth in South Asian visitor numbers—up 14 per cent—aligns with strengthened marketing partnerships, tailored visa processes and cultural programming. The GCC’s contribution highlights regional integration and growing leisure travel within the Gulf bloc.

Despite global economic uncertainties, Dubai’s performance demonstrates resilience and targeted policy interventions. The city’s continued appeal across a range of segments—from luxury seekers to business travellers and families—suggests adaptability in a competitive market.

On the horizon, new developments such as the Deira Islands and the introduction of sustainability‑focused resorts are expected to further enrich visitor experiences. Operators say that forthcoming supply will align closely with demand, maintaining balanced occupancy and revenue growth.

The United Arab Emirates will integrate its National Artificial Intelligence System into the highest levels of government from January 2026. The system will serve as an advisory member of the Council of Ministers, the Ministerial Development Council, and the boards of all federal entities and government-owned companies. Its mandate includes supporting decision-making, providing real-time analysis, offering technical advice, and enhancing policy efficiency across every sector.

Dubai’s ruler and UAE Prime Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, made the announcement on 20 June, emphasising that the world is undergoing “comprehensive transformation—scientifically, economically and socially.” He underscored that the move is intended to prepare the country for future challenges and to “ensure continued prosperity and a dignified life for future generations”.

This development builds upon the UAE’s decade‑long focus on artificial intelligence, which began with the appointment of Omar Sultan Al Olama as the world’s first Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence in October 2017. In early 2019, the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031 was launched, setting the ambition to position the UAE as a global AI leader by 2031. Subsequent milestones include the founding of the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence in 2019 and Abu Dhabi’s Digital Strategy 2025‑2027, which aims to establish a fully AI‑powered government by 2027.

Analysts suggest that embedding the AI system at ministerial and federal‑company levels could accelerate data‑driven governance, reduce bureaucratic lag, and foster greater inter‑departmental cohesion. One Gulf Business commentator noted that the AI system would “enhance the efficiency of government policies adopted… across all sectors”. However, questions remain over oversight and transparency mechanisms, especially as the system begins analysis in real time.

International observers view the UAE’s strategy as part of a wider push by governments to use AI in public administration. Examples include Japan’s smart city prototype “Woven City” and various national AI offices globally. Still, no other nation has yet placed an AI inside its cabinet with ministerial‑level access.

Experts highlight both promise and peril. Proponents argue the system’s analytical speed can help identify emerging economic, environmental, and public health challenges before they escalate. Critics, however, caution that AI must be complemented by human judgment to avoid embedding algorithmic bias or over‑reliance on model outputs. Ethical guidelines—such as transparency, accountability, and fairness—will need to be codified and enforced to mitigate these risks.

Practical implementation looms as another challenge. Seamless integration into federal bodies and government companies will require significant investment in digital infrastructure, staff training, and inter‑agency coordination. These tasks fall within the remit of the Minister of State for AI, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications, Omar Sultan Al Olama, who has spearheaded the country’s AI strategy since 2017.

As part of a broader governance overhaul, Sheikh Mohammed also announced the launch of a dedicated Ministry of Foreign Trade, led by Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi—and the renaming of the Ministry of Economy to the Ministry of Economy and Tourism under Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri.

The government asserts that the AI system will augment human capacity without replacing it, and that final decisions on strategy and policy will remain with elected or appointed officials. Mechanisms to monitor AI‑led inputs and outcomes are expected to be announced before the system’s January 2026 launch, according to insiders.