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VinFast’s breakout year, capped by its 200,000th vehicle and growing presence from India to the Middle East, shows how Vietnam is rewriting its industrial reputation, with electric cars leading the charge.

HAI PHONG, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 January 2026 – On the final day of 2025, VinFast’s Hai Phong manufacturing complex ended the year at full throttle, rolling off the 200,000th vehicle from its production line. For Vietnam’s first and only global carmaker, the number capped off a year of achievements that highlighted Vietnam’s growing capability as a manufacturing hub.

For more than a year, VinFast has led Vietnam’s car market, outselling brands that once defined what success on four wheels looked like, a welcome change in a country long used to importing its automotive identity. VinFast vehicles are now part of daily traffic as commuter cars, family haulers, and long-distance companions, judged and praised with the same standards buyers apply to Japanese, Korean, or German imports.

Scale, however, tells only part of the story. In the same year, VinFast revealed a far more technical project: the Lac Hong 900 LX, an armored electric vehicle certified to meet the VPAM VR7 ballistic protection standard. Very few automakers globally can build vehicles at that level of protection, and even fewer can do so with a fully electric platform.

Outside Vietnam, over the past two years, VinFast has pushed into North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Notably, in 2025, three new plants came online, one in Vietnam and two more in India and Indonesia. The Indian factory in Tamil Nadu entered a market famous for thin margins and even thinner patience. It is not a place that waits politely for newcomers to find their footing. Yet by December, just months after starting sales, VinFast had risen to become India’s fourth largest EV brand, prompting one Indian outlet to note that its market entry “proved to be a huge success.”

Much of VinFast’s momentum, across every market it has entered, comes from how it thinks about ownership. Rather than treating sales as an endpoint, the company tends to enter markets with an entire support system designed to remove local anxieties. In regions where electric vehicles still prompt practical questions, those details carry weight.

The Middle East offers a clear case. There, the VF 8 is positioned as a premium midsize electric SUV, supported by policies designed to reduce hesitation. Buyers receive a ten-year or 200,000-kilometer vehicle warranty, a ten-year unlimited-mileage battery warranty, and five years of free servicing, along with mobile service units, round-the-clock roadside assistance, and guaranteed parts availability.

For many buyers in the Middle East, Vietnam was not previously associated with car manufacturing, an image VinFast is steadily undoing for a country long thought of mainly as an exporter of rice and shoes. Beyond the vehicles themselves, that kind of normalization may be VinFast’s most lasting export.

There was a time when cars from South Korea were treated as a punchline in Western markets, but those jokes have not aged well. Vietnam’s turn is arriving in a different moment, shaped by electrification and fewer fixed ideas about who belongs in the global auto club. And this time, nobody is laughing.

Hashtag: #VF8 #VinFast

https://me.vinfast.com/en

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

United Arab Emirates will assume the presidency of the Middle East and North Africa Financial Action Task Force in 2026, placing the country at the centre of regional efforts to strengthen safeguards against money laundering, terrorist financing and the proliferation of illicit funds. The appointment comes at a time when the bloc is seeking tighter coordination among member states as cross-border financial flows grow in scale and complexity.

MENAFATF brings together 21 jurisdictions across the Middle East, North Africa and neighbouring regions, representing a combined gross domestic product estimated at more than $3 trillion. The organisation functions as the regional body aligned with the global Financial Action Task Force standards, conducting peer reviews, issuing guidance and supporting members as they implement international rules designed to protect financial systems from abuse.

The decision for the UAE to lead the organisation follows its expanding role in financial regulation and enforcement across the region. Federal authorities have invested heavily in strengthening supervision of banks, exchange houses, designated non-financial businesses and professions, while also expanding cooperation with international counterparts. Officials involved in the process describe the presidency as recognition of the country’s progress in aligning domestic frameworks with global benchmarks and its capacity to convene consensus among diverse economies.

During its term, the UAE is expected to steer MENAFATF’s strategic agenda, including the scheduling of mutual evaluations, thematic studies and capacity-building programmes. These initiatives are central to helping member states address gaps identified in national risk assessments and respond to emerging typologies such as the misuse of virtual assets, trade-based money laundering and complex ownership structures.

Regulatory specialists say the presidency carries influence beyond administrative oversight. The chair country plays a pivotal role in shaping discussions on policy priorities, coordinating technical assistance and representing the region in dialogue with global standard-setters. This places added scrutiny on how effectively the bloc can balance the varied economic structures and legal systems of its members while maintaining consistent application of standards.

The UAE has signalled that cooperation and practical implementation will be key themes of its tenure. Policymakers have spoken about deepening information-sharing among financial intelligence units, enhancing public-private partnerships and supporting jurisdictions that face capacity constraints. Such measures are viewed as essential for raising overall compliance levels and reducing vulnerabilities that can be exploited across borders.

MENAFATF members span hydrocarbon-rich Gulf economies, large consumer markets in North Africa and smaller states with developing financial sectors. This diversity has historically posed challenges in achieving uniform progress. Analysts note that leadership will need to balance ambition with pragmatism, ensuring that reforms are realistic and tailored to local contexts while still meeting international expectations.

The presidency also coincides with broader shifts in the region’s financial landscape. Digital payments, fintech platforms and virtual assets have expanded rapidly, creating new opportunities for inclusion but also new risks. Addressing these developments requires updating supervisory tools, training regulators and fostering dialogue with technology providers. Observers expect the UAE to push for clearer regional guidance in these areas, building on its own experience in regulating emerging financial services.

Another area likely to feature prominently is the effectiveness of enforcement. While many jurisdictions have strengthened legal frameworks, translating laws into successful investigations and prosecutions remains uneven. MENAFATF’s peer review process increasingly emphasises outcomes, not just technical compliance. Under UAE leadership, the organisation is expected to encourage members to demonstrate tangible results in asset recovery, sanctions and international cooperation.

Diplomats familiar with the process say the appointment also reflects confidence in the UAE’s ability to engage constructively with both regional partners and global institutions. The country has positioned itself as a bridge between markets, hosting multinational financial institutions and acting as a hub for trade and investment. That role brings responsibilities, particularly in ensuring that financial openness is matched by robust controls.

The developments will be led by Manrre Developments, a joint venture between GFH and Palmon Group, a seasoned UAE-based industrial conglomerate with over 40 years of institutional experience. This partnership unites proven regional expertise across acquisition, planning and design, development, execution, and operational readiness to deliver exceptional, future-ready warehouses and logistics centres.

Harry Ip, Managing Director of Gaw Capital, said, “We are thrilled to enter UAE’s flourishing industrial and logistics market, supported by strong fundamentals, the surge in structural demand driven by government-led initiatives, and heightened global interest in the logistics and industrial asset class. Leveraging the expertise from GFH Partners, this partnership positions us as one of Asia’s leading forerunners in delivering prime industrial facilities in the UAE, providing investors with exposure to a fundamentally undersupplied market.”

Nael Mustafa, CEO of GFH Partners, commented, “GFH Partners brings on-the-ground specialists, experienced local operators, and a strong track record managing logistics and industrial assets across the GCC. This joint venture allows us to scale that regional expertise even further, capitalizing on the UAE’s robust industrial growth trajectory. Through this partnership with Gaw Capital, we are combining regional insight with global capability to unlock new opportunities in the UAE’s expanding industrial and logistics sector.”

The Platform is being launched at a time of strong macroeconomic momentum, supported by the UAE’s long-term development strategies including the Dubai Industrial Strategy 2030 and the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. Majority of these initiatives are aimed at accelerating industrial diversification, attracting FDI, and expanding logistics infrastructure. The local government offers a list of pro-business regulatory and fiscal policies, including tax exemptions, customs duty exemption, simplified regulations in 40+ free zones, and relaxed foreign ownership limitation, to accelerate logistics demand and investment. Furthermore, the population of the UAE has experienced dramatic growth and is expected to reach 12.2 million by 2030, driven by the long-term residency incentives (e.g. Golden Visa), competitive tax regime, openings of prestigious school campuses for expatriate professional and family relocation.

Demand for logistics and industrial assets remains robust, supported by a persistent supply–demand imbalance. Dubai’s warehouse and logistics occupancy currently exceeds 97%, with rental rates increasing 33% year-on-year. The formation of the Platform will mark Gaw Capital’s first geographic footprint in the logistics sector in the UAE, demonstrating its global network and cross-border expertise in accessing industrial and logistics investments ahead of the curve.

Gaw Capital has established a robust logistics footprint across China, Japan, South Korea, Vietnam and Australia, with investments in 39 projects totalling approximately 3.8 million sqm of GFA. As of Q3 2025, Gaw Capital manages over US$3.4 billion in assets under management in its global logistics portfolio.

Since 2014, the firm has acquired, developed, and managed a substantial portfolio of modern logistics facilities with over 3 million sqm of GFA across China, supported by a team of around 100 professionals through 4 investment vehicles. Leveraging its deep expertise, Gaw Capital has expanded into other APAC markets through strategic partnerships, acquiring high-quality assets in key metropolitan hubs. Recent investments include seven logistics assets in Greater Tokyo (nearly 250,000 sqm GFA), one in Seoul (over 75,000 sqm GFA), two in Vietnam (over 210,000 sqm GFA) and six urban industrial and logistics warehouses in Sydney (over 45,000 sqm GFA). The firm’s in-house teams and operating partners deliver value-added services across the logistics value chain, including development, construction, leasing, and property management.
Hashtag: #GawCapitalPartners #GFHPartners

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About Gaw Capital Partners

Based in Asia, Gaw Capital Partners is a multi-asset investment management firm focusing on real estate, growth equity, private credit and infrastructure markets globally.

Since its inception in 2005, the firm has raised seven commingled funds targeting Asia Pacific, alongside value-add /opportunistic funds in the U.S., a Pan-Asia Hospitality Fund, a European Hospitality Fund, a Growth Equity Fund and a Credit Fund. It also manages credit strategies and separate account direct investments globally.

Gaw Capital has consistently generated high yields by revitalizing underperforming assets, enhancing value through creative financing solutions and leveraging deep expertise in capital allocation.

Since 2005, the firm has managed US$35.8 billion in assets and raised US$24.4 billion in equity as of Q2 2025.

About GFH Partners Ltd.

GFH Partners Ltd. (“GFH Partners”) is the DIFC-based global asset management subsidiary of GFH Financial Group B.S.C. (“GFH”). Headquartered in Dubai International Financial Centre and regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority, GFH Partners is dedicated to real estate investment and asset management across diverse markets. With assets under management exceeding US$7 billion and investments spanning the US, UK, and GCC. GFH Partners focuses on strategic partnerships and innovative real estate solutions, reinforcing its role as a leading player in global asset management.

Aviation in the United Arab Emirates has deepened its role as a strategic pillar of the national economy, with 2025 marking a year of consolidation that underscored the sector’s influence on trade, tourism, logistics and supply chains. Policymakers and industry leaders say the ecosystem’s direct and indirect contribution has reached as much as 18 per cent of gross domestic product, reflecting the scale of activity generated by airlines, airports, maintenance hubs, free zones and aviation-linked services.

Passenger and cargo volumes across the federation continued to trend higher, supported by steady growth in international travel demand and the country’s positioning as a crossroads between Asia, Europe and Africa. Major hubs operated by Dubai Airports and Abu Dhabi Airports handled sustained traffic flows as carriers expanded networks and frequencies. Capacity discipline and targeted route additions allowed operators to absorb higher volumes while maintaining service standards, reinforcing the UAE’s reputation for operational reliability.

Flag carriers remained central to the sector’s momentum. Emirates Airline pressed ahead with fleet renewal and network optimisation, focusing on long-haul markets that underpin connectivity for tourism and business travel. Etihad Airways pursued a parallel strategy centred on profitability and partnerships, aligning growth with demand and strengthening Abu Dhabi’s role as a transfer hub. Together, the airlines’ scale supported ancillary industries ranging from catering and ground handling to training and aviation finance.

Cargo performance remained a defining feature of the year. Dedicated freighter operations and belly-hold capacity benefited from the UAE’s role in high-value, time-sensitive shipments, including pharmaceuticals, perishables and e-commerce. Logistics providers highlighted improved customs processes and digital clearance systems as key enablers, allowing faster turnaround times and reinforcing confidence among multinational shippers. The integration of air cargo with ports and free zones helped sustain supply chains amid ongoing adjustments in global trade patterns.

Governance and regulation were cited by executives as competitive advantages. The General Civil Aviation Authority continued to align oversight with international standards while supporting innovation through performance-based regulation. Industry participants pointed to predictable policy frameworks and coordinated planning between federal and emirate-level authorities as factors that reduced friction for investors and operators.

Sustainability initiatives gathered pace across airlines and airports, reflecting both regulatory expectations and commercial imperatives. Carriers advanced fuel-efficiency programmes through newer aircraft types and operational measures, while airports invested in energy management, waste reduction and water stewardship. Trials involving sustainable aviation fuel expanded through partnerships with energy suppliers and research institutions, positioning the UAE as an early mover in the region’s decarbonisation efforts. While volumes of alternative fuels remain limited, industry leaders argued that early adoption builds expertise and supply-chain readiness.

Technology adoption also shaped the sector’s evolution. Biometric processing, predictive maintenance and data-driven air traffic management systems were rolled out to improve efficiency and resilience. Airports leveraged automation to manage peak flows without proportional increases in staffing, while airlines used analytics to refine scheduling and revenue management. These investments were framed as necessary to accommodate future growth while preserving service quality.

The aviation workforce expanded alongside operations, with training academies and partnerships focusing on pilots, engineers and air traffic specialists. Officials emphasised localisation and skills development as priorities, citing aviation’s role in high-value employment and knowledge transfer. At the same time, competition for specialised talent remained intense, prompting employers to enhance retention and career progression pathways.

Tourism authorities linked aviation capacity directly to visitor inflows, noting that air connectivity underpins hotel occupancy, events and retail activity. Route launches and increased frequencies supported diversification into new source markets, aligning with broader economic strategies aimed at reducing reliance on hydrocarbons. Business travel and exhibitions contributed to premium traffic, reinforcing the UAE’s positioning as a regional commercial hub.

Federal reforms regulating industrial hemp are reshaping the treatment landscape for sleep disorders, anxiety and epilepsy across the United Arab Emirates, as clinicians, researchers and regulators map how low-THC cannabis derivatives can be used safely within a tightly controlled system. The changes sit apart from the country’s framework on medical cannabis, which governs products with higher tetrahydrocannabinol content and remains subject to strict prescription and import rules.

The hemp law permits the cultivation, processing and use of cannabis varieties containing minimal THC, typically below 0.3 per cent, aligning the UAE with regulatory models adopted in several advanced economies. Officials say the objective is to unlock therapeutic and industrial value without opening pathways to recreational misuse. For patients, the most immediate implications are for cannabidiol-based preparations, which are non-intoxicating and increasingly studied for neurological and psychiatric conditions.

The policy shift creates new clinical options for people whose symptoms have proved resistant to conventional therapies. Insomnia and generalised anxiety disorder affect a growing share of the population, while epilepsy continues to pose treatment challenges for a subset of patients who do not respond adequately to standard anti-seizure medicines. Cannabidiol, or CBD, has drawn attention for its calming effects on the central nervous system and its role in reducing seizure frequency in certain epilepsy syndromes.

Specialists caution that hemp products are not a panacea. Evidence is strongest for specific childhood epilepsies, including Dravet and Lennox-Gastaut syndromes, where purified CBD has been shown to reduce seizure burden when added to existing regimens. Research into anxiety and sleep has produced more mixed findings, though small clinical trials and observational studies suggest benefits for sleep onset and stress modulation at carefully titrated doses.

Professor Barnes, a leading authority on cannabis medicine, notes that the global legal landscape has shifted rapidly. Medical cannabis containing higher THC levels is now legal in 71 countries under varying frameworks, reflecting broader acceptance of cannabinoid-based therapies when appropriately regulated. The UAE’s approach, by contrast, draws a bright line between hemp-derived products and medical cannabis, allowing limited therapeutic use while preserving the country’s zero-tolerance stance on recreational drugs.

Regulators emphasise that access will be medicalised rather than commercialised. Hemp-derived therapeutics are expected to move through pharmacy channels and clinical oversight, with product quality, labelling and traceability forming core pillars of compliance. Authorities have indicated that cultivation licences will be tightly issued, with genetics, THC thresholds and testing protocols specified to prevent diversion.

Healthcare providers see an opportunity to expand personalised care. Neurologists and psychiatrists report rising patient interest in non-sedating options that can be integrated with existing treatments. For epilepsy specialists, CBD’s favourable side-effect profile compared with some traditional anti-epileptic drugs is a significant draw, particularly for long-term management. Sleep physicians, meanwhile, are exploring whether hemp-derived formulations can reduce reliance on hypnotics that carry dependency risks.

Industry participants are preparing cautiously. Pharmaceutical distributors and research institutions are investing in clinical studies tailored to regional populations, recognising that dosage, formulation and delivery methods matter as much as legality. Oils, capsules and oral solutions are expected to dominate, given their dosing precision and lower risk profile compared with inhaled products.

Public health experts underline the need for clear guidance to avoid consumer confusion. Hemp products sold globally range from pharmaceutical-grade medicines to wellness supplements of uneven quality. The UAE framework seeks to close that gap by requiring evidence-based claims and physician involvement, reducing the risk of self-medication or exaggerated expectations.

The reforms also intersect with broader innovation goals. By enabling controlled research into cannabinoids, policymakers aim to position the country as a regional hub for life sciences, while maintaining strict ethical standards. Universities and hospitals are already collaborating on protocols to assess safety, efficacy and long-term outcomes in local cohorts.

By Nantoo Banerjee It does not make sense for India to deplete its hard-earned foreign currency reserves to temporarily protect the Rupee’s exchange value. In fact, Indian Rupee’s downturn vis-à-vis other major currencies has not adversely impacted the country’s impressive economic growth, at least for the present. On the contrary, it has made exports cheaper […]

The article Rupee Decline May Not Be Bad For Economy Now appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

An SUV that delivers both sophistication and an industry-leading peace-of-mind ownership experience.

DUBAI, UAE – Media OutReach Newswire – 29 December 2025 – Middle Eastern buyers have long gravitated toward vehicles that project elegance, presence, and purpose. As electric mobility accelerates across the region, design continues to be a major factor in purchase decisions. VinFast responds to this expectation with the VF 8, an electric SUV whose aesthetic is rooted in European sophistication yet thoughtfully shaped to resonate with Middle Eastern roads, lifestyles, and sensibilities.

The VF 8’s exterior was developed around a design philosophy VinFast calls “Dynamic Balance”. Rather than relying on overt aggressiveness, the VF 8 uses tension between smooth surfaces and crisp lines, balancing gentle curves with sharper transitions to create a silhouette that feels modern without chasing trends, a consideration particularly relevant in the Middle East.

Its LED lighting signature, highlighted by a full-width tail lamp and the recognizable V-shaped graphic, establishes a strong visual identity from a distance. Confident proportions and a purposeful stance allow the vehicle to project stability on wide highways and in dense city environments.

Inside the VF 8, VinFast has created a cabin that blends practicality with an understated, premium feel. A panoramic sunroof brightens the interior and creates a sense of openness that local buyers often value. Premium vegan leather, color-selectable ambient lighting, and a streamlined dashboard contribute to a cabin that feels calm and contemporary. At the center of this environment is a 15.6-inch floating infotainment display that anchors the cockpit while reducing physical clutter. The seats, spacious in both rows, are designed with long-distance comfort in mind, and ventilation and heating functions in the Plus variant provide flexibility across seasonal shifts in the region.

Design and engineering intersect to elevate everyday usability. The VF 8’s aerodynamic profile supports range efficiency and improves ride stability. Wide outward visibility, paired with intelligent LED lighting, enhances confidence during night driving and intercity travel. The vehicle’s smart functionalities, including update capability and advanced driver-support technologies, are built into the design in a way that maintains the cabin’s clean, minimal aesthetic without overwhelming the driver.

The VF 8’s design narrative is strengthened by an ownership experience that has become one of VinFast’s defining attributes. Its long-term warranty coverage extends for ten years or 200,000 km on the vehicle, alongside a ten-year battery warranty with unlimited mileage, delivering assurance that resonates strongly with Middle Eastern buyers who prioritize durability and long-term value. This is reinforced by a comprehensive aftersales framework that includes five years of free scheduled service up to 100,000 km, 24/7 roadside assistance with mobile service support, guaranteed access to replacement parts around the clock, and the inclusion of home charging solutions with access to DC fast-charging networks. Together, these policies align with the SUV’s design intention: a vehicle created not only to be admired, but to be lived with confidently for years.

This positioning comes as VinFast closes out one of the most consequential years in its history. The company has inaugurated its Subang manufacturing plant in Indonesia, marking a major expansion of its global production footprint, while momentum in Vietnam continues to accelerate. With record monthly deliveries and multiple models leading their respective segments, VinFast is on track to finish the year as the best-selling automotive brand in its domestic market, underscoring the speed and scale of its transition from an emerging EV player to an established market leader.

Hashtag: #VF8 #VinFast

https://me.vinfast.com/en

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About VinFast

VinFast (NASDAQ: VFS), a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnam’s largest conglomerates, is a pure-play electric vehicle (“EV”) manufacturer with the mission of making EVs accessible to everyone.

VinFast’s product lineup today includes a wide range of electric SUVs, e-scooters, and e-buses. VinFast is currently embarking on its next growth phase through rapid expansion of its distribution and dealership network globally and increasing its manufacturing capacities with a focus on key markets across North America, Europe and Asia.

Learn more at: https://me.vinfast.com/en

The United Arab Emirates is on course to generate more than one million additional jobs by 2030, placing it among the world’s fastest-expanding labour markets as economic diversification, technology adoption and population growth intensify demand for skilled workers, according to a workforce outlook released by ServiceNow.

The projection underscores the scale of change under way in the UAE’s employment landscape, where public and private sector investment is being channelled into advanced industries, digital services, clean energy, logistics and financial technology. Policymakers have positioned job creation as a central pillar of national economic strategy, linking employment growth to productivity gains, innovation and long-term competitiveness.

ServiceNow’s analysis indicates that the strongest employment momentum is emerging in technology-led roles, particularly in cloud computing, artificial intelligence operations, cybersecurity, data analytics and enterprise software services. Demand is also rising for professionals who can combine technical skills with business process expertise, reflecting the increasing automation of workflows across government entities, banks, energy companies and logistics firms.

This expansion is unfolding alongside steady population growth driven by immigration, as professionals from Asia, Europe and Africa relocate to the UAE for work opportunities. Labour market specialists say the inflow of skilled workers has become an economic asset, helping employers fill gaps in high-value roles while supporting consumption and domestic demand.

Beyond technology, job creation is expected to be broad-based. Construction and real estate continue to absorb labour as infrastructure spending remains strong, while tourism, hospitality and aviation are benefitting from sustained visitor growth and expanding airline capacity. Healthcare and education are also projected to add sizeable numbers of jobs as authorities invest in social infrastructure to support a larger and more diverse population.

The digital transformation of government services has emerged as a significant employment driver. Federal and emirate-level entities are accelerating the shift towards paperless operations, data-driven decision-making and AI-enabled public services. This has increased demand for systems architects, digital policy specialists and programme managers who can oversee complex technology deployments while ensuring regulatory compliance and data security.

Employers are also rethinking workforce structures as automation changes how tasks are performed. Routine administrative roles are increasingly being replaced or augmented by software platforms, while new positions are emerging in system oversight, process design and user experience management. Analysts say this transition is not eliminating jobs at scale but reshaping them, with a premium placed on adaptability and continuous learning.

Education and training institutions are responding by expanding programmes focused on digital skills, coding, data science and cyber resilience. Partnerships between universities, vocational institutes and multinational firms are becoming more common, aimed at aligning curricula with labour market needs. Corporate upskilling initiatives are also gaining traction as employers seek to retrain existing staff rather than rely solely on external hiring.

Wage dynamics are expected to reflect these shifts. Salaries in high-demand technology and specialist roles have been rising faster than the broader market, while competition for experienced professionals has intensified. Human resources consultants note that non-salary benefits, including flexible working arrangements, career progression pathways and residency incentives, are increasingly important in attracting and retaining talent.

The ServiceNow report places the UAE’s projected job growth ahead of many mature economies, where ageing populations and slower productivity gains are constraining employment expansion. By contrast, the UAE’s relatively young workforce, openness to foreign talent and willingness to adopt new technologies are seen as structural advantages.

Challenges remain, particularly around ensuring that job creation keeps pace with population growth and that skills mismatches do not widen. Economists warn that without sustained investment in education and training, shortages could emerge in critical areas, potentially pushing up labour costs and slowing project delivery. There is also a need to integrate more nationals into private-sector roles, a long-standing policy objective supported by wage subsidies, training schemes and regulatory measures.

Weather conditions across the UAE are set to turn more unsettled on Sunday, with cloud build-up, spells of rain in some areas and dusty winds affecting visibility, according to official forecasts.

The National Centre of Meteorology has said the day is expected to be partly cloudy at times, becoming occasionally overcast as convective clouds develop over eastern and southern parts of the country. These cloud formations may bring rainfall, particularly over mountainous areas, while conditions elsewhere are likely to remain variable through the day.

Forecasters indicated that surface winds will play a key role in shaping conditions. Winds are expected to be light to moderate at times, freshening during the day and occasionally becoming strong, especially in open areas and over the sea. These winds could stir up dust and sand, reducing horizontal visibility and making driving conditions challenging on exposed roads.

Temperatures are forecast to show noticeable contrasts between inland, coastal and mountainous regions. Daytime highs are expected to remain warm across much of the country, though increased cloud cover may moderate peak temperatures in some areas. Cooler conditions are anticipated over higher ground, particularly during the night and early morning, as cloud cover and shifting winds influence local weather patterns.

Humidity levels are also expected to fluctuate, with higher readings forecast overnight and into the morning, especially along coastal and northern areas. Meteorologists have cautioned that this may lead to mist or fog formation in isolated locations, further affecting visibility during early travel hours.

Marine conditions are expected to be unsettled as well. Seas in the Arabian Gulf are forecast to range from moderate to rough at times, particularly as winds strengthen. Conditions in the Sea of Oman are expected to be slight to moderate, though boat operators have been advised to monitor updates as conditions can change quickly with shifting winds and cloud activity.

Aviation authorities and transport officials have urged travellers to stay informed about weather developments, particularly those planning road trips or marine activities. Reduced visibility due to dust and the possibility of rainfall in certain regions may disrupt travel schedules and outdoor plans.

Meteorologists say the developing weather pattern reflects seasonal transitions that often bring increased atmospheric instability. Convective cloud formation typically occurs when surface heating combines with moisture and upper-level disturbances, leading to vertical cloud growth and the possibility of showers. Such systems are often localised, meaning some areas may see rainfall while others remain dry.

Emergency services and municipal authorities have reiterated standard safety advice during periods of unsettled weather. Motorists are urged to slow down during dusty or rainy conditions, maintain safe distances and use headlights when visibility drops. Residents in areas prone to water accumulation are advised to remain cautious if showers develop.

Farmers and outdoor workers have also been advised to plan activities carefully, as sudden changes in wind strength or rainfall could affect working conditions. For coastal communities and fishing operators, sea conditions warrant close attention, particularly during periods when winds strengthen unexpectedly.

The National Centre of Meteorology continues to monitor conditions around the clock using satellite imagery, radar systems and ground-based observations. Officials have emphasised that forecasts are updated regularly as new data becomes available, and residents are encouraged to follow official channels for timely information.

BNW Developments has unveiled the Tonino Lamborghini Residences on Al Marjan Island, marking the first time the Italian luxury lifestyle brand has anchored a residential project in Ras Al Khaimah and setting a new benchmark for branded waterfront living in the northern emirate. The launch positions the privately held developer behind what it describes as Ras Al Khaimah’s largest private real estate venture at the centre of a market drawing growing international investor interest.

The project brings together BNW Developments and Tonino Lamborghini, the brand founded by the son of the legendary Italian carmaker, to deliver a design-led residential community that blends Italian heritage with contemporary coastal architecture. Planned as a large-scale, master-planned development, the residences are set on Al Marjan Island, a man-made archipelago that has emerged as the emirate’s most prominent tourism and lifestyle hub.

Executives involved in the announcement said the collaboration reflects a deliberate strategy to move beyond conventional luxury offerings towards globally recognised branded residences that command long-term value. For Ras Al Khaimah, the development underscores a shift towards higher-end projects aligned with the emirate’s tourism and economic diversification agenda, particularly as hospitality, leisure and residential segments converge along the coastline.

The Tonino Lamborghini Residences are being positioned as ultra-luxury waterfront homes, with interiors inspired by Italian craftsmanship and modern European aesthetics. Design elements are expected to reflect the brand’s signature language, incorporating bespoke materials, curated finishes and lifestyle-focused amenities. While detailed specifications and unit pricing have not been formally disclosed, the developer has indicated that the project targets high-net-worth buyers seeking branded homes with strong rental and capital appreciation potential.

BNW Developments has expanded rapidly within Ras Al Khaimah’s real estate sector, capitalising on policy reforms, infrastructure spending and rising tourism flows. Al Marjan Island, in particular, has become a focal point for premium residential and hospitality investments, supported by new resorts, entertainment attractions and improved connectivity. Property consultants tracking the market say branded residences on the island are increasingly appealing to overseas buyers from Europe, Asia and the wider Middle East, drawn by comparatively attractive entry prices and long-term growth prospects.

The arrival of Tonino Lamborghini adds another internationally recognised name to the island’s evolving skyline, reinforcing a trend in which global lifestyle brands are lending their identity to residential projects across the UAE. Analysts note that branded developments typically command a premium over non-branded counterparts, supported by perceived quality assurance, curated services and brand-driven design consistency.

Industry observers also point to Ras Al Khaimah’s regulatory environment and measured approach to development as factors supporting sustained demand. Unlike more saturated markets, the emirate has emphasised phased growth, balancing tourism expansion with residential supply. This has helped maintain pricing discipline while attracting developers focused on differentiated offerings rather than volume-led construction.

For BNW Developments, the Tonino Lamborghini partnership is intended to elevate its profile beyond a regional developer into a player capable of executing globally benchmarked luxury projects. Company officials have described the residences as a long-term investment in brand equity, aligning the developer with an internationally known lifestyle name while contributing to the emirate’s ambition to compete with established luxury destinations.

Tonino Lamborghini’s leadership has framed the project as a natural extension of the brand’s presence in hospitality, accessories and interior design, translating its identity into a residential environment shaped by coastal living. The brand’s involvement is expected to extend beyond naming rights to include design oversight and lifestyle integration, a factor often scrutinised by buyers in the branded residences segment.

Seef Properties has signed a lease agreement with UAE-based D’lish Café to open the brand’s first outlet in Bahrain at Al Liwan, adding a new premium food and beverage concept to the mixed-use destination in the Seef District of Manama. The deal underscores continued demand for curated dining experiences within lifestyle-led developments and reflects a broader push by property owners to anchor retail assets with recognisable regional brands.

The café, known for its contemporary menu and design-led spaces, is expected to occupy a prominent location within Al Liwan, a development that blends retail, leisure, dining, and community spaces. Executives involved in the agreement said the move aligns with Al Liwan’s positioning as a social hub rather than a conventional shopping centre, where food-led concepts play a central role in footfall generation and dwell time.

Seef Properties described the agreement as part of a wider strategy to deepen its portfolio of lifestyle tenants that appeal to both residents and visitors. The company has been recalibrating its leasing mix across assets to prioritise experiential retail, particularly dining formats that combine casual accessibility with premium presentation. Al Liwan, which hosts a range of cafés, restaurants, and entertainment offerings, has emerged as a flagship for that approach.

For D’lish Café, the Bahrain opening marks its first international expansion, signalling confidence in the kingdom’s dining market and its ability to support differentiated concepts. The brand has built a following in the UAE by focusing on high-quality ingredients, visually distinctive interiors, and menus designed to cater to breakfast, lunch, and evening socialising. Industry observers note that such all-day dining formats have gained traction across Gulf cities as consumer preferences shift towards flexible, experience-driven venues.

Executives familiar with the project said the Bahrain outlet will mirror the brand’s core identity while incorporating local design cues to resonate with the Al Liwan setting. Fit-out work is expected to proceed in line with Seef Properties’ guidelines for sustainability, accessibility, and integration with surrounding public spaces. While an opening date has not been formally announced, preparations are under way to align the launch with peak seasonal footfall at the destination.

The agreement comes at a time when Bahrain’s retail real estate sector is navigating structural changes driven by evolving consumer behaviour. Traditional mall formats have faced pressure from e-commerce and shifting spending patterns, prompting developers to emphasise food, leisure, and community experiences that cannot be replicated online. Analysts tracking the sector say developments that successfully curate strong dining line-ups are better positioned to maintain occupancy levels and rental stability.

Al Liwan’s tenant mix reflects that strategy, with food and beverage outlets accounting for a significant share of leasable space. The addition of D’lish Café is expected to complement existing concepts by targeting a demographic that values premium yet approachable dining. Seef Properties executives have previously indicated that tenant selection is guided by brand strength, operational track record, and the ability to contribute to a cohesive destination experience rather than standalone retail performance.

For D’lish Café, the Bahrain market offers exposure to a consumer base known for high per-capita spending on dining and a strong café culture. Manama’s Seef District, in particular, attracts a mix of residents, office workers, and visitors, providing a diversified customer base. Market analysts note that UAE-based brands expanding into Bahrain often view the kingdom as a strategic entry point for broader regional growth due to regulatory familiarity and cultural alignment.

The partnership also highlights increasing cross-border collaboration within the Gulf’s retail and hospitality sectors. As regional brands mature, developers are leveraging these names to differentiate projects and reinforce destination branding. At the same time, café and restaurant operators are seeking locations that offer built-in footfall and a lifestyle context aligned with their brand positioning.