News related to
UAE News

The launch of the UAE’s Financial Inclusion Strategy has been hailed as a pivotal move in advancing economic access for all, not only within the country but also across the broader Middle East and North Africa region. Ousmane Dione, Vice President for the World Bank’s MENAAP region, underscored the significance of the initiative, framing it as a transformative step that will set a precedent for further developments in financial inclusion.

Speaking at the MENA Leaders’ Summit on Financial Inclusion in Abu Dhabi, Dione expressed his enthusiasm for the UAE’s leadership in this area. He noted that the nation’s decision to launch a comprehensive financial inclusion strategy demonstrates its forward-thinking approach, which aligns with global objectives of promoting equal economic opportunities. The event, organised by the Central Bank of the UAE in collaboration with the Arab Monetary Fund and the World Bank, served as a forum for regional leaders to exchange insights on tackling the challenges that hinder financial access in the MENA region.

The UAE’s initiative seeks to enhance financial services for underserved and unbanked populations, including women, low-income households, and small businesses. This strategy is in line with global efforts to bridge the financial inclusion gap, particularly in emerging economies where a significant proportion of the population remains excluded from formal financial systems.

Dione’s remarks highlighted the importance of creating an inclusive financial ecosystem that enables individuals and businesses, regardless of their background or income level, to access essential financial services. The UAE’s strategy addresses several key areas, including expanding digital payment systems, enhancing financial literacy, and ensuring the accessibility of financial services to remote and underserved communities.

The summit, which brought together leaders from across the MENA region, was a significant step towards addressing the region’s financial inclusion challenges. Many countries in the MENA region still face considerable hurdles in achieving universal financial inclusion, such as limited access to banking infrastructure, low levels of financial literacy, and insufficient regulatory frameworks to support digital finance innovations.

A key topic of discussion at the summit was the role of digital technologies in fostering financial inclusion. Mobile banking, digital wallets, and blockchain-based financial services were identified as critical enablers of inclusive financial systems. These technologies provide a means for individuals who lack access to traditional banking services to participate in the financial ecosystem, empowering them to save, borrow, and invest in their futures.

In his comments, Dione acknowledged that while progress has been made in several MENA countries, significant challenges remain. He emphasised the need for continued collaboration among governments, financial institutions, and technology providers to overcome barriers to financial access. The World Bank has committed to supporting regional efforts to enhance financial inclusion, providing technical expertise and financial resources to initiatives like the UAE’s strategy.

The UAE’s leadership in this area reflects its broader ambitions to position itself as a regional and global leader in financial services. Over the years, the country has invested heavily in developing its financial infrastructure, becoming a hub for banking and fintech innovation. The launch of the Financial Inclusion Strategy is a natural extension of these efforts, aiming to ensure that the benefits of economic growth are more equitably distributed.

One of the notable aspects of the UAE’s strategy is its focus on women’s financial empowerment. Women in the MENA region have historically faced significant barriers to accessing financial services, with factors such as cultural norms and limited financial literacy often preventing them from participating fully in the economy. The UAE’s strategy includes targeted measures to increase women’s participation in the financial system, recognising that empowering women is crucial for driving broader economic growth and development.

The event in Abu Dhabi also underscored the growing importance of regional cooperation in tackling financial inclusion challenges. Leaders from various MENA countries exchanged best practices and discussed ways to harmonise regulatory approaches to digital finance. The World Bank’s involvement in the summit highlights its commitment to supporting the region’s efforts to build more inclusive financial systems.

Arada Developments, a prominent real estate firm co-owned by the son of Saudi Arabian Prince Alwaleed bin Talal and a member of Sharjah’s royal family, has secured a significant stake in a major London property project. The company has acquired 80% of a prestigious waterfront development, marking a key expansion into the UK market.

The project, located in the heart of London’s dynamic property sector, aims to deliver around 5,000 new homes, alongside a mix of retail and leisure spaces. This ambitious development is expected to transform a prime section of the city’s waterfront, contributing to the capital’s long-term housing and regeneration goals.

The deal highlights growing interest from Gulf-based investors in the UK property market, which has become an increasingly attractive destination for global capital. Despite the challenges of the broader economic environment, demand for prime real estate in London remains resilient, with institutional investors and developers keen to capitalise on its stable returns and strategic location.

Arada’s involvement in this project underscores its strategy of expanding beyond the Middle East, a move that reflects the company’s broader ambitions to diversify its portfolio and build a global presence. The firm, which has a significant footprint in the UAE, is no stranger to large-scale developments. It has a history of high-profile projects across the region, particularly in Dubai and Sharjah, where it has focused on residential and mixed-use developments.

The acquisition also speaks to the growing ties between Gulf investors and the UK property market. Over the years, London has attracted significant Gulf investment, particularly from sovereign wealth funds, family offices, and high-net-worth individuals seeking to diversify their holdings. This trend has only intensified in the wake of global uncertainties, with many investors seeking to hedge against risks in their home markets.

London’s residential property sector has seen substantial growth over the past decade, driven by both domestic and international demand. However, the sector has not been without its challenges. Economic factors such as Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic have created uncertainty, but the long-term prospects for the capital’s real estate market remain strong. For Arada, the acquisition provides an opportunity to tap into this lucrative market while simultaneously benefiting from the UK’s stable legal framework and favourable regulatory environment.

The London waterfront site is expected to undergo extensive redevelopment, with construction set to commence shortly. The project will focus on creating a sustainable and vibrant community, featuring a mix of affordable and market-rate housing, along with green spaces and amenities that cater to modern urban living. The development is poised to be a key player in London’s ongoing efforts to address its housing shortage and meet the growing demand for residential properties in the city.

The impact of this project on the local economy is also expected to be significant. The development will generate thousands of jobs during the construction phase, contributing to the UK’s broader economic recovery. Furthermore, the influx of new residents and businesses to the area is likely to drive further regeneration and investment, benefiting the surrounding neighbourhoods.

EDGE, the UAE’s leading advanced technology group, has revealed an impressive array of 42 new products and innovations at the Dubai Airshow, underscoring its growing influence in the global defence and aerospace sectors. This year’s unveiling focuses on a diverse portfolio of next-generation solutions across several key domains, including autonomous systems, propulsion technology, radar systems, and secure communication networks. These advancements are a testament to EDGE’s commitment to developing state-of-the-art capabilities aimed at transforming military and aerospace operations worldwide.

The 42 new products introduced by EDGE span a wide spectrum of technological domains, with notable attention given to autonomous and semi-autonomous systems. These technologies are designed to enhance operational efficiency and effectiveness in both military and commercial applications. The development of such systems is seen as a pivotal step in the UAE’s strategy to strengthen its defence capabilities while positioning EDGE as a key player in the autonomous warfare landscape.

One of the key highlights at the Dubai Airshow was the showcase of EDGE’s smart weapons portfolio. The company unveiled cutting-edge precision strike systems that promise to deliver more accurate, cost-effective, and lethal strikes, crucial for modern military operations. These weapons are equipped with the latest guidance and targeting technologies, enabling them to operate autonomously or with minimal human intervention.

Further expanding EDGE’s footprint in the defence sector, the company presented new propulsion systems designed to provide enhanced performance for various unmanned aerial vehicles and aircraft. These systems focus on improving fuel efficiency, reliability, and operational range, ensuring that EDGE’s unmanned platforms can operate in more challenging and complex environments, from the battlefield to the frontiers of space exploration.

In addition to autonomous systems and propulsion technologies, EDGE made significant strides in the field of radar and communications. The company revealed advanced radar systems capable of detecting and tracking airborne threats with unparalleled accuracy. These systems are designed to provide real-time situational awareness, offering a strategic advantage for defence forces in identifying and neutralising potential threats.

In the realm of secure communications, EDGE introduced a new suite of encrypted communication systems, ensuring that military and government agencies can maintain secure, uninterrupted communications in any environment. The focus on security aligns with global efforts to protect sensitive information and ensure operational success, particularly in conflict zones where cybersecurity threats are prevalent.

Another exciting development showcased at the Dubai Airshow was EDGE’s advancements in space capabilities. The company highlighted new satellite technologies that promise to revolutionise both communications and reconnaissance capabilities for military and civilian use. These satellites are designed to provide high-resolution imagery, real-time data transmission, and global coverage, marking a significant leap forward in the UAE’s ambitions to expand its presence in space exploration.

EDGE’s new line-up reflects the UAE’s growing position as a global leader in cutting-edge technology, as well as its desire to create an indigenous defence and aerospace industry that can compete on the world stage. This drive is exemplified by the company’s commitment to advancing defence capabilities while ensuring the UAE’s military forces remain at the forefront of technological innovation.

Vaibhav Suryavanshi, the rising star of Indian cricket, etched his name in the record books with a blistering 144 runs off just 42 balls in a T20 match against the UAE in Doha. This stunning performance not only cemented his place as one of the most exciting young talents in the game but also shattered existing records for the fastest and highest score in T20 cricket.

Suryavanshi, who has been making waves in domestic and international circuits, showed remarkable power-hitting prowess from the first ball. His innings was a display of controlled aggression, as he smashed 14 sixes and 10 fours, leaving the UAE bowlers helpless. The 144 runs came at an astonishing strike rate, and he achieved this feat in just 42 balls, surpassing the previous T20 record for the fastest century.

The young cricketer’s knock began with a rapid-fire start, and his confidence grew with each boundary. His ability to rotate strike while also finding the boundary at will left the crowd in awe. The UAE’s bowling attack, which had been formidable in previous matches, had no answers to his aggressive batting. Despite the best efforts of UAE’s bowlers, Suryavanshi dominated every over, quickly putting pressure on the opposition.

This performance comes as a significant milestone in Suryavanshi’s already impressive career, which includes several standout performances in domestic leagues and international competitions. His rise to fame has been meteoric, with scouts and former players alike taking note of his immense potential. His record-breaking knock in Doha has not only garnered attention but also raised expectations for his future in the international cricket scene.

The 18-year-old’s batting style is often compared to some of the game’s biggest hitters, but it is his temperament under pressure that sets him apart. In addition to his aggressive strokes, Suryavanshi has shown maturity in constructing innings, often shifting gears depending on the situation. His ability to accelerate at crucial moments makes him a player to watch in the coming years.

Cricket experts have already begun to discuss his potential role in the Indian national team, with some even speculating about his inclusion in upcoming international fixtures. With the Indian cricket team always on the lookout for dynamic and explosive players, Suryavanshi’s breakthrough performance in Doha only adds to the conversation about his possible call-up.

ENOC Group, a leading player in the energy sector, is set to demonstrate its commitment to sustainable practices at the 19th Dubai Airshow. The group, known for its integrated energy solutions, will focus on innovations aimed at accelerating the transition to a low-carbon economy. One of the key highlights will be the provision of Sustainable Aviation Fuel to JETEX-operated aircraft during the event, underscoring ENOC’s efforts to reduce aviation’s carbon footprint.

The move is part of ENOC’s broader strategy to align with the global push towards net-zero emissions by 2050. With aviation being a significant contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions, the use of SAF is seen as a vital step in the industry’s decarbonisation. SAF, produced from renewable resources, offers a lower carbon alternative to traditional jet fuel and is considered a crucial component in achieving the aviation sector’s climate goals.

In addition to providing SAF, ENOC will showcase other clean energy innovations designed to support the aviation and energy sectors’ transition to sustainable practices. These technologies are aligned with the UAE’s national energy strategy, which prioritises sustainability and aims to position the country as a leader in the global energy transition.

The Dubai Airshow, a prominent global event, serves as an ideal platform for ENOC to display its clean energy capabilities. The event brings together key stakeholders from across the aerospace, aviation, and energy industries, providing ENOC with a valuable opportunity to engage with industry leaders and showcase its role in driving the shift towards a greener future.

ENOC’s partnership with JETEX for SAF supply at the Dubai Airshow reflects the growing demand for sustainable fuel alternatives in the aviation industry. This collaboration builds on ENOC’s longstanding commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship, as it continues to expand its range of clean energy solutions. The company’s efforts in SAF production are designed to complement its other sustainability initiatives, including investments in renewable energy and advancements in energy efficiency.

The showcase of SAF at the Dubai Airshow is expected to raise awareness about the importance of sustainable aviation fuels in reducing the environmental impact of air travel. As global demand for cleaner energy solutions grows, ENOC’s involvement in this sector underscores its strategic focus on providing innovative, sustainable energy solutions to support the UAE’s climate goals and contribute to global decarbonisation efforts.

ENOC’s participation in the Dubai Airshow also highlights the growing importance of partnerships between energy and aviation companies in addressing climate challenges. By working closely with JETEX and other stakeholders, ENOC is helping to shape the future of sustainable aviation, ensuring that the industry remains aligned with global environmental objectives while continuing to meet the demands of modern air travel.

Abu Dhabi’s state-owned oil giant, ADNOC, has received a conditional nod from the European Commission for its 14.7 billion euro acquisition of the German chemicals firm Covestro. The approval, granted on Friday, hinges on ADNOC adhering to specific commitments outlined by the Commission, including modifying its articles of association and sharing Covestro’s sustainability-related patents with competitors in certain areas.

The deal represents ADNOC’s strategic push into the global chemicals market, marking a significant expansion beyond its traditional oil and gas operations. Covestro, a leader in high-performance plastics and other chemical products, has long been a key player in the European industrial landscape. This acquisition could give ADNOC greater access to advanced materials used in various sectors, including automotive, construction, and electronics.

In its ruling, the European Commission emphasised that ADNOC’s commitment to altering its corporate structure and making proprietary technologies available to others in the field of sustainability is crucial to maintaining competitive conditions in the European market. The deal, which was first announced earlier this year, is contingent upon ADNOC meeting these demands to ensure no harm to competition in the chemical and sustainability markets.

The approval came after several rounds of regulatory scrutiny, including concerns over potential monopolistic effects in certain segments of the chemicals industry. However, ADNOC’s willingness to adapt its operational framework and engage in collaboration with other market players ultimately paved the way for the European Commission’s greenlight.

The Commission’s conditional approval also reflects the growing importance of sustainability within corporate transactions. By requiring ADNOC to share Covestro’s patents, the EU is ensuring that the intellectual property crucial to advancing eco-friendly and sustainable technologies does not remain under the control of a single entity. This step is seen as a way of fostering innovation and preventing market consolidation that could stifle progress in critical sectors like renewable energy and environmental protection.

ADNOC’s acquisition of Covestro aligns with its broader strategy to diversify its business interests and strengthen its presence in high-value industries. The company has been increasing its investments in chemicals and other non-oil sectors in recent years, as it seeks to become less reliant on fossil fuels amid the global push for cleaner energy sources. For ADNOC, acquiring a major chemical manufacturer is an opportunity to leverage its substantial financial resources and access new markets for its products, particularly in Europe, which has a strong demand for advanced materials.

The deal is also seen as a win for the UAE’s broader economic vision, which aims to position the country as a global leader in sustainable development and innovation. ADNOC’s willingness to share Covestro’s sustainability patents is part of its commitment to contributing to the global fight against climate change, which is increasingly a focal point for both the public and private sectors.

While the conditional approval is a significant step forward, the acquisition is far from complete. ADNOC must now comply with the European Commission’s stipulations, which could include more detailed negotiations with competitors and stakeholders in the sustainability sector. It is expected that the full regulatory process will take several months before the deal can be finalised.

Covestro, for its part, stands to benefit from ADNOC’s financial backing and expertise in the chemicals sector. As a global leader in the production of polyurethanes and polycarbonates, the company is well-positioned to expand its reach and scale its operations, particularly in emerging markets where demand for high-performance materials is growing rapidly. ADNOC’s financial strength, coupled with Covestro’s established market position, could create a powerful synergy capable of driving innovation and expanding the companies’ collective influence in the global chemicals market.

Abu Dhabi’s largest lender, First Abu Dhabi Bank P. J. S. C., has priced a €850 million benchmark five-year Regulation S green bond carrying a coupon of 3.1201 per cent, underlining its growing role in sustainable finance. The offering, which drew strong investor demand, was set at 70 basis points over the five-year euro swap rate.

The bank holds credit ratings of Aa3 from Moody’s Investors Service and AA- from both Standard & Poor’s and Fitch Ratings, each with a stable outlook. This backing supports its ability to tap international debt markets effectively. The green bond marks one of the largest single-issuance Euro-denominated sustainable financings in the Gulf region this year.

FAB’s issuance follows a growing trend of Gulf-region banks seeking to align capital-markets activity with environmental, social and governance criteria. According to the bank’s Sustainable Finance Framework, the institution has targeted USD 135 billion in sustainable and transition finance by 2030, increasing the ambition by 80 per cent in 2023. The framework also embeds ESG review and classification for every debt and equity instrument issued by the bank.

Market analysts interpret the strong pricing as a signal of investor appetite for high-quality, sustainability-labelled debt from the Gulf. One observer noted that the tight spread and size of the issue reflect “a vote of confidence in both FAB’s credentials and the region’s green financing prospects”. The bank’s previous issuance in the sustainability-linked debt space included a USD 750 million five-year “low carbon energy” bond issued under its EMTN programme, which was the first of its kind globally by a financial institution to use proceeds for nuclear power generation refinancing. This earlier transaction set a precedent for innovation in the sustainable debt market.

Proceeds from the new green bond will be allocated exclusively to projects that meet FAB’s classification criteria under its Sustainable Finance Framework — namely activities aligned with energy efficiency, renewable energy, sustainable water management and other eligible categories across multiple geographies. The bank reports prior projects spanning the UAE, United States, Africa and France.

The issuance also comes as regulatory and investor scrutiny of use-of-proceeds and impact reporting increases. Financial-markets participants point to the need for transparency in how green bonds deliver outcomes and stress the importance of robust external review. FAB has published annual reporting on its sustainable finance commitments, including an ESG and Sustainable Finance Committee responsible for eligibility assessment of transactions.

Notably, the gulf region remains under-penetrated in labelled green and sustainability debt relative to global averages, creating potential for growth. The International Capital Markets community highlights the importance of high-grade regional issuers entering the market to build reference benchmarks and deepen liquidity. The strong pricing achieved by FAB could encourage other Gulf-based banks and corporates to pursue green or transition debt under credible frameworks.

FAB’s move also dovetails with the UAE government’s strategic push towards a net-zero economy and diversified financing of infrastructure and low-carbon projects. The financial sector’s role in supporting the transition has been emphasised by regulators as critical. By issuing a large-scale, euro-denominated green bond, FAB is signalling both to regional peers and global investors that it is aligning capital-markets strategy with sustainable development objectives.

That alignment is more than symbolic. The debt raised carries a fixed coupon of 3.1201 per cent over five years, offering investors in the euro market exposure to high-quality credit while contributing to thematic portfolios linked to climate and sustainability. For FAB, the cost of funding appears favourable in a period of elevated global yield levels and refinancing risk for many borrowers. The balance between cost and labelled-finance credentials suggests the deal was executed with strong timing and investor positioning.

A delegation from Abu Dhabi’s infrastructure authority wrapped up discussions in Singapore with seven strategic memoranda of understanding aimed at accelerating urban development and smart-city infrastructure. The Abu Dhabi Projects and Infrastructure Centre signed accords with Singapore’s leading construction, engineering and architectural firms to bring advanced modular construction, digital twin technology and sustainable delivery models into a US$54 billion + project pipeline.

The agreements involved Singapore entities such as BCA International, Surbana Jurong, Meinhardt Group, Singapore Institute of Architects, CPG Corporation, Tech Onshore MEP Prefabricators and RSP Architects. Collectively they span built-environment excellence, urban master-planning, engineering consultancy, design collaboration, infrastructure solutions and prefabricated Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing systems.

Representatives from the Abu Dhabi side included His Excellency Eng. Maysarah Mahmoud Salim Eid, Director General at ADPIC; His Excellency Jamal Abdullah AlSuwaidi, Ambassador to Singapore; Eng. Khulood Al Marzouqi, Acting Executive Director of Infrastructure Regulation & Support at the Abu Dhabi Department of Municipalities and Transport; and Eid Alobeidli, Director of Musataha & Public-Private Partnerships at the Abu Dhabi Investment Office. On the Singapore side, figures such as Kelvin Wong of BCA International and Tiah Nan Chyuan of the Singapore Institute of Architects joined the talks alongside over 400 industry-leaders.

The roadshow, branded under the Abu Dhabi Infrastructure Summit International Roadshow framework and hosted in partnership with Enterprise Singapore and the UAE-Singapore Business Council, showcased Abu Dhabi’s public-private-partnership frameworks, regulatory incentives and capital-project delivery models, while spotlighting Singapore’s global expertise in digitalised construction and sustainable design.

Among the key trends emerging is a strong emphasis on modular construction and design-for-manufacture-and-assembly methods. The Singaporean partners bring capabilities in integrated digital delivery and prefabricated MEP systems which Abu Dhabi is keen to deploy across large-scale urban districts, residential developments and mixed-use master-plans. Eng. Eid described Singapore as “the pinnacle of smart-city innovation and advanced construction methodologies” and said the step sets “concrete pathways for Singaporean expertise to contribute to Abu Dhabi’s ambitious infrastructure agenda”.

The pipeline includes more than US$54 billion in planned infrastructure across Abu Dhabi, signalling opportunities for joint ventures, co-investment and technology transfer. The partnership framework aims to elevate not only individual projects but to build an integrated ecosystem of digital-innovation, sustainability and efficient delivery models. Eid Alobeidli of ADIO emphasised that Abu Dhabi is “developing an integrated ecosystem that leverages world-class infrastructure, digital innovation and proven PPP delivery models to accelerate… transformation into a future-ready global capital.”

From the Singapore side, Heng Teck Thai of BCA International noted that the collaboration “reinforces Singapore’s commitment to global built-environment excellence” and underlined the use of the Green Mark framework as a basis for promoting sustainable and energy-efficient developments in Abu Dhabi and beyond.

The two-day event featured detailed presentations of Abu Dhabi’s major project opportunities, developers’ pipelines and open B2B networking sessions that connected Abu Dhabi stakeholders with Singaporean firms. Site-visits were also conducted, including a tour of Surbana Jurong’s campus and a modular-construction facility by Teambuild ICPH in Singapore, illustrating the hands-on dimension of the partnership potential.

With the formal agreements in place, attention now shifts to the operational phase of collaboration: how Singapore-based firms will transfer technology, how Abu Dhabi will adapt regulatory frameworks for fast-track project delivery and how both sides will structure co-investment and risk-sharing in major infrastructure programmes. Analysts note that successful execution will depend on aligning regulatory regimes, intellectual-property frameworks and local content strategies to maximise the benefits from global-local partnerships.

Observers point to the Gulf–ASEAN axis as gaining momentum in infrastructure cooperation, as the Abu Dhabi-Singapore tie-up could serve as a model for other Gulf states seeking to tap Singapore’s expertise in urban planning, sustainability and smart-technology integration. The signalling effect may help unlock further foreign-direct-investment flows into Gulf infrastructure markets and enhance cross-regional knowledge exchange.

Abu Dhabi-based Aldar Properties has enhanced its asset portfolio with the acquisition of two prime industrial and logistics properties from a subsidiary of AD Ports Group for a total of 570 million dirhams. The deal, which includes two Grade A assets, underscores Aldar’s strategy to diversify and strengthen its recurring income base, especially within the logistics and industrial sectors.

The assets, situated in Khalifa Economic Zones, include one property leased to Noon, a prominent e-commerce platform, which operates a state-of-the-art fulfilment centre, and another property rented to Emtelle, a manufacturer of fibre optic solutions for the telecoms industry. The acquisition not only adds significant value to Aldar’s real estate holdings but also reinforces its presence in the rapidly growing logistics sector, which has seen increasing demand due to the boom in e-commerce and telecommunications.

Khalifa Economic Zones, a key business hub in Abu Dhabi, offers strategic connectivity and is home to various global companies. The two acquired properties represent institutional-grade assets, expected to generate stable and long-term income streams. The properties are located in one of the UAE’s most dynamic areas for industrial and logistical operations, enhancing the appeal of this acquisition for Aldar. The agreement further highlights KEZAD’s growing prominence as a central location for leading global players in e-commerce and technology sectors.

Aldar’s decision to expand its holdings in the industrial space is aligned with its ongoing strategy of diversifying its income sources. The company has steadily been growing its portfolio of income-generating assets, focusing on sectors such as residential, retail, and now industrial logistics. This acquisition forms part of Aldar’s broader investment strategy to optimise its portfolio, positioning itself as a key player in sectors that offer resilient, long-term returns.

With the rise in demand for logistics properties, particularly those catering to e-commerce businesses, Aldar’s move to acquire these assets is timely. Noon’s use of the space as a fulfilment centre aligns with the UAE’s expanding e-commerce sector, which has experienced significant growth, further accelerated by the pandemic. Similarly, the Emtelle facility contributes to the growing telecom sector, driven by the need for fibre optic solutions as digital transformation progresses across the region.

This transaction reflects a broader trend of increasing institutional investment in industrial and logistics real estate, a sector seen as highly resilient due to the ongoing digital transformation and e-commerce boom. Aldar’s acquisition strategy mirrors regional and global shifts towards securing high-quality, long-term investments in key infrastructure sectors.

The deal marks a key milestone for Aldar as it looks to strengthen its foothold in Abu Dhabi’s industrial property market. By adding these Grade A assets, the company not only boosts its portfolio but also positions itself to benefit from future growth in logistics, telecommunications, and e-commerce sectors, which are expected to continue expanding in the coming years.

Abu Dhabi National Hotels, a leading hospitality investment and management company in the UAE, has made a significant move into Ras Al Khaimah’s burgeoning luxury real estate sector. The company has officially announced the launch of The Residences at Nasim Al Bahr, part of the prestigious Luxury Collection Resort & Spa located on Al Marjan Island. This waterfront development is valued at Dhs3 billion and represents a major step for ADNH in diversifying its portfolio to include high-end residential properties.

Designed to offer an elevated living experience, The Residences at Nasim Al Bahr combines contemporary architectural design with premium amenities, setting a new standard for luxury in the region. The project is poised to cater to a growing demand for exclusive residential options in Ras Al Khaimah, which is rapidly becoming a sought-after destination for affluent buyers looking for both tranquillity and luxury living close to nature and world-class leisure offerings.

Located in one of the most picturesque areas of Ras Al Khaimah, the development aims to integrate seamlessly with its surroundings while providing residents with unparalleled access to the resort’s vast amenities, including a luxurious spa, gourmet dining options, and recreational facilities. The residential complex is part of a wider trend in the UAE, where demand for upscale properties, particularly those offering a mix of leisure and residential facilities, has surged in recent years.

The development is not only a milestone for ADNH but also a reflection of the broader trends shaping the UAE’s real estate market. The emirate of Ras Al Khaimah has long been known for its pristine landscapes, including its beaches, mountains, and desert terrain. As a result, luxury developments, particularly those offering panoramic views and exclusive features, have become increasingly popular among investors, both locally and internationally.

According to industry experts, the success of this development hinges on its ability to cater to an increasingly sophisticated clientele seeking privacy, comfort, and luxury in a serene environment. This move into Ras Al Khaimah comes as part of ADNH’s strategy to tap into the growing demand for luxury properties that cater to high-net-worth individuals and families seeking to invest in the UAE’s most prestigious residential locations.

Ras Al Khaimah has witnessed notable growth in its real estate sector in recent years, thanks to a series of strategic initiatives by the local government to promote the emirate as a hub for both tourism and high-end residential developments. The launch of The Residences at Nasim Al Bahr comes at a time when the UAE’s northern emirates are gaining increasing attention from investors, further diversifying the real estate landscape beyond the traditionally dominant markets of Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

This project also complements the UAE’s broader ambition to expand its luxury tourism and hospitality sectors, positioning itself as a global leader in high-end living and leisure experiences. The addition of The Residences to the portfolio of the Luxury Collection Resort & Spa is expected to attract a diverse range of international buyers, who are increasingly looking beyond the major urban centres for exclusive and private residences.

Bank of Sharjah played a key role in Ittihad International Investment LLC’s latest financing success, serving as Joint Lead Manager and Bookrunner in a US$550 million senior unsecured Sukuk issuance. The five-year bond offering attracted overwhelming investor interest, with the order book oversubscribed more than four times, peaking at US$2 billion. This level of demand highlights the strong confidence investors have in Ittihad International’s financial health and future growth prospects.

The Sukuk issuance represents a major milestone for Ittihad International Investment LLC, a prominent UAE-based investment group. With a focus on diversified investments across various sectors, Ittihad International has consistently shown its ability to adapt to market changes and maintain robust financial fundamentals. The success of the Sukuk offering is a clear reflection of the group’s strategic vision, which continues to resonate well with both regional and international investors.

The issuance attracted a diverse mix of institutional investors, including sovereign wealth funds, banks, and asset managers from across the globe. The appetite for the bond offering was not only driven by Ittihad’s strong credit profile but also by the stability and potential growth of the UAE’s economy, which remains a key driver for investment in the region. The overwhelming demand for the Sukuk underscores the high level of trust investors place in Ittihad’s long-term business strategies.

This successful transaction is a significant achievement for Bank of Sharjah, which has built a strong reputation in the financial sector for its role in leading major capital market deals in the region. The bank’s involvement as Joint Lead Manager and Bookrunner further solidifies its position as a leading financial institution in the UAE and the broader Middle Eastern market. Bank of Sharjah’s role in this high-profile Sukuk offering is seen as an endorsement of its deep understanding of regional markets and its ability to facilitate complex transactions for clients in a competitive environment.

The Sukuk, which is based on a Sharia-compliant structure, offers investors an attractive return while supporting Ittihad International’s strategic initiatives. The proceeds from the issuance are expected to be used for general corporate purposes, which include financing new investments and expanding the company’s portfolio in the UAE and beyond. The success of the transaction is a testament to Ittihad’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its financial position and drive long-term value for its stakeholders.

The Sukuk market in the Middle East has been thriving in recent years, with increasing interest from both local and international investors in Islamic finance products. The demand for Sukuk remains strong due to the region’s large and growing investor base, as well as the broader appeal of Sharia-compliant financial instruments. The Ittihad Sukuk transaction highlights the continued maturity of the Middle East’s debt capital markets and reinforces the role of Islamic finance in diversifying global investment opportunities.

The deal’s success also comes at a time when investor confidence in the UAE remains high, bolstered by the country’s continued economic recovery, business-friendly policies, and strong infrastructure development. These factors have contributed to the UAE’s attractiveness as a destination for both regional and international investors looking to capitalise on the country’s growth potential.