Category: What’s On

Expeditors International of Washington, a Fortune 500 logistics company, has inaugurated a 23,200-square-metre facility within Dubai South’s Logistics District, reinforcing its strategic presence in the Middle East. The facility, which began operations in February 2025, is designed to enhance Expeditors’ warehousing and container freight station capabilities, aligning with the region’s growing demand for advanced logistics solutions.The inauguration ceremony was attended by senior leadership from both organisations, including HE Khalifa Al Zaffin, Executive Chairman of Dubai Aviation City Corporation and Dubai

Dubai is set to commence trials of 50 autonomous taxis in 2025, marking a significant advancement in the city's transportation landscape. The initiative, led by the Roads and Transport Authority , aims for a broader public rollout by 2026, aligning with Dubai's ambition to have 25% of all transport journeys conducted via autonomous means by 2030.The trial phase will involve a fleet of 50 self-driving vehicles, each equipped with advanced sensors and AI-driven navigation systems. These vehicles will operate with

The Dubai Fountain, a prominent attraction in Downtown Dubai, is set to close for five months starting Saturday, April 19, to facilitate a comprehensive upgrade. Emaar Properties, the developer behind the project, has announced that the renovation will commence in May and is expected to be completed by October 2025. The final performance before the closure is scheduled for April 19.The planned enhancements aim to elevate the fountain's performances through the integration of advanced technology, improved choreography, and upgraded sound

Dubai Internet City is set to spotlight its pivotal role in the Middle East's digital economy at GITEX Asia 2025, scheduled from April 23 to 25 at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore. As part of a delegation led by Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism, DIC aims to attract global investors and tech enterprises to its expanding innovation ecosystem.Celebrating its 25th anniversary, DIC has evolved into a cornerstone of Dubai's digital transformation. An impact assessment conducted in collaboration with Accenture

Ajman Bank has divested its stake in Gulf Navigation Holding, concluding a series of direct share transactions valued at AED 173.4 million over the past month. Data from the Dubai Financial Market indicates that nine direct deals, each ranging between 2.6 million and 9 million shares, were executed since March 5. This move signifies the bank's complete exit from its investment in the Dubai-based shipping company.Previously, Ajman Bank held a 6.4% stake in Gulf Navigation as of 2024,

A rare 10.03-carat blue diamond, known as "The Mediterranean Blue," is the centrepiece of Sotheby's latest exhibition in Abu Dhabi, showcasing a collection of exceptional diamonds valued at approximately $100 million. The exhibition, which opened on April 8 at the Bassam Freiha Art Foundation on Saadiyat Island, marks Sotheby's first public display in the United Arab Emirates' capital since 2009.The Mediterranean Blue, a cushion-shaped modified brilliant-cut gem, has been graded as Fancy Vivid Blue by the Gemological Institute of

Hotel establishments across the United Arab Emirates reported revenues of approximately AED37.1 billion from January to October 2024, reflecting a 4% increase compared to the same period in 2023. The hotel occupancy rate also experienced growth, reaching nearly 78%, up 2.7% from the corresponding period last year. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Chairman of the UAE Tourism Council, highlighted that these figures underscore the expanding growth of Emirati tourism across various sectors, supporting the National Tourism

Oil prices have experienced a significant decline, reaching their lowest levels since April 2021, driven by escalating trade tensions between the United States and China, coupled with strategic decisions by OPEC+ regarding oil production.Brent crude futures dropped by $2.28, settling at $63.30 per barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude decreased by $2.20 to $59.79 per barrel. This marks a continuation of a downward trend, with Brent and WTI falling by 10.9% and 10.6% respectively over the past week.The

President Donald Trump has announced a comprehensive tariff strategy, imposing a baseline 10% duty on all imports into the United States, with significantly higher rates targeting approximately 60 countries. This move, declared during a White House event termed "Liberation Day," aims to address trade imbalances and bolster domestic industries.Under the new policy, key trading partners will face steep tariffs: China is subjected to a 34% duty, the European Union 20%, Japan 24%, South Korea 25%, Vietnam 46%, and Taiwan 32%.

In a city like Dubai, it is very important not to forget about achieving personal goals, given how fast life rushes in the vastness of such a metropolis. For many people, this seems impossible, because there are too many distractions that do not even allow you to exercise normally. The solution is very simple and effective, which has already been tested in practice many times - contacting a gym with personal trainers in Dubai will allow you to get help

AD Ports Group and Columbia Group have announced the formation of a joint venture, Noatum – CSM Limited, aimed at optimizing vessel operations through advanced fleet management systems. This collaboration seeks to enhance the management of AD Ports Group's ocean-going fleet and extend services to third-party vessels.The partnership integrates Columbia Group's expertise in fleet management and AI-driven performance analytics with AD Ports Group's diverse fleet and ship management experience. The joint venture will be based in the UAE and will

Abu Dhabi National Energy Company PJSC, known as Taqa, has initiated discussions to acquire a stake in Spain's Naturgy Energy Group SA. Taqa's chairman and UAE Minister of Investment, Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi, traveled to Spain to meet with executives from CriteriaCaixa SA, Naturgy's largest shareholder, to explore a potential deal.CriteriaCaixa holds a 26.7% stake in Naturgy and has expressed openness to negotiations under specific conditions: Taqa must not seek a majority stake, and the transaction should not provoke diplomatic tensions

Imagine you're preparing for an important event, let's say a wedding. You have to prepare the location, invitations, menu, dress code, and all sorts of other details. But when you think about this day, there is one thing you can't imagine it without. And, of course, these are flowers.There are many cultures, traditions and ceremonies in the world, but flowers are the main attribute of nearly every celebration, especially when it comes to weddings. They symbolize love, happiness, and new

Hong Kong's tourism sector is actively seeking to attract high-net-worth travelers from the Middle East and Southeast Asia, implementing a series of strategic initiatives to diversify its visitor base and rejuvenate its economy.Recognizing the potential of affluent markets in the Gulf Cooperation Council countries and Southeast Asia, the Hong Kong government has allocated HK$1.2 billion in the 2025 budget to boost tourism. Finance Secretary Paul Chan emphasized the city's commitment to making "extra efforts" to attract high-value visitors

Oil prices have experienced a notable increase, marking the second consecutive weekly gain, as geopolitical developments and strategic decisions by major oil-producing entities influence global supply dynamics. The introduction of new US sanctions targeting Iran's oil sector, coupled with planned output adjustments by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies , have been pivotal in this upward trend.Brent crude futures recently rose by 0.3%, reaching $72.21 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate crude futures saw

Dubai has embarked on a groundbreaking initiative to revolutionise its real estate sector by launching a pilot project for property tokenization. Spearheaded by the Dubai Land Department , this endeavour positions Dubai as the first property registration authority in the Middle East to integrate blockchain technology into property title deeds, marking a significant milestone in the region's technological advancement.The core objective of this project is to democratise property ownership by allowing multiple investors to co-own a single property through digital

Abu Dhabi's Department of Municipalities and Transport has introduced the Value Housing Programme, a strategic initiative designed to diversify the emirate's real estate market and elevate living standards for both individuals and families. This programme underscores the emirate's commitment to fostering inclusive and sustainable communities, aligning with the broader objectives of the UAE Year of Community.The programme's phased implementation aims to address the increasing demand for housing by offering high-quality, affordable residential units. In collaboration with key industry

Dubai’s real estate sector saw a remarkable surge in February 2025, with property sales volumes hitting Dh41 billion, marking a 17 per cent increase compared to the previous month. This impressive growth underscores the city’s resilience amid global economic challenges and reinforces its standing as a top investment destination.The property market’s robust performance is attributed to a combination of factors, including a booming economy, a steady influx of residents, and targeted government initiatives. Despite the ongoing global uncertainties, Dubai

Dubai-based robotics manufacturer Micropolis Holding has successfully raised $15.5 million through its initial public offering on the NYSE American exchange. The company offered approximately 3.875 million ordinary shares at $4 per share, aligning with the lower end of the anticipated price range. Trading commenced on March 7, 2025, under the ticker symbol "MCRP".Established in 2014 and headquartered in Dubai Production City, Micropolis specializes in developing autonomous mobile robots . These robots utilize wheeled electric vehicle platforms equipped with

Riyadh is set to become the epicenter of artificial intelligence innovation as it prepares to host the Global AI Show on June 23-24, 2025. Organized by VAP Group, the event is expected to attract over 5,000 AI futurists, industry leaders, and innovators from around the world. This gathering underscores Saudi Arabia's commitment to establishing itself as a global hub for artificial intelligence, in line with its Vision 2030 initiative.The Global AI Show aims to foster collaboration among AI experts, policymakers,

Careem Pay, the financial services arm of the Careem app, has introduced a new remittance service enabling United Arab Emirates residents to send funds directly to bank accounts in Egypt. This development aims to provide a swift and cost-effective alternative to traditional banking methods for the substantial Egyptian expatriate community in the UAE.The UAE hosts a significant number of Egyptian expatriates, positioning Egypt among the top five destinations for remittances from the UAE. In recent years, the remittance flow

In a strategic move that could reshape the Middle East's food delivery landscape, Talabat, a leading online food ordering company, has acquired InstaShop, an online grocery delivery platform. This acquisition underscores a growing trend towards consolidation in the region's delivery sector, aiming to enhance operational efficiencies and expand market reach.Talabat, established in Kuwait in 2004, has evolved into a dominant player across the Middle East, operating in countries including Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Qatar, Jordan,

Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority has launched the next-generation 360 Services Policy, aiming to revolutionise customer experience by delivering integrated, seamless, and proactive digital services without necessitating in-person visits. This initiative is a significant stride in RTA's ongoing digital transformation, transitioning services to self-service models accessible through shared digital platforms like the "Dubai Now" app.His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA, emphasised the authority's commitment to developing a

Oil prices have experienced a significant decline, reaching multi-year lows, as a confluence of geopolitical and economic factors exerts pressure on the global energy market. The imposition of new U.S. tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico, and China, coupled with the decision by OPEC+ to increase oil production, has led to heightened concerns about oversupply and weakened demand.Brent crude futures fell to $68.33 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate dropped to $65.22 per barrel, marking the lowest levels observed

Nyla Abaya, a distinguished online fashion brand, has launched its premium abaya collection in the United Arab Emirates , offering an array of handcrafted designs that blend traditional aesthetics with contemporary elegance. The brand's online platform showcases a variety of abayas, each meticulously crafted to cater to the discerning tastes of fashion-conscious women in the region.The collection features abayas made from luxurious fabrics such as organza and crepe, adorned with intricate embroidery and pearl embellishments. One notable design is the

Dubai is set to bolster its status as a burgeoning hub for hedge funds with the launch of the DIFC Hedge Funds Centre, a facility tailored for emerging hedge fund startups. The Dubai International Financial Centre is repurposing a building to provide short-term, plug-and-play office spaces, enabling firms to pilot their operations before scaling up. This initiative underscores Dubai's commitment to attracting global financial players and is slated to open by the end of April.The new centre is

Dubai is set to enhance its electric vehicle infrastructure with the installation of new charging stations in the first quarter of 2025. This initiative results from a collaboration between the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority and Parkin Company PJSC , the emirate's largest provider of paid public parking facilities and services.The new charging stations will operate on alternating current with a capacity of 22 kilowatts each, accommodating two vehicles simultaneously. They will be strategically located across key

Dubai's employment landscape is undergoing a significant transformation, marked by an overwhelming influx of job seekers. Trefor Murphy, head of the recruitment firm Cooper Fitch, observes that job postings in the city, which previously attracted approximately 100 applicants, are now receiving up to 2,000 applications. This surge is attributed to Dubai's robust economic growth and its appeal as a global business hub. The city's strategic initiatives and investor-friendly policies have drawn professionals from various sectors, intensifying competition in the job market.

Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority has introduced significant advancements to its public transport services, aiming to enhance commuter convenience and align with the emirate's smart city vision. Passengers across various modes of transport can now access free Wi-Fi and utilize cashless payment options, reflecting RTA's commitment to integrating technology into daily commutes.As of February 2025, the RTA, in collaboration with e& , has successfully installed free Wi-Fi services in 29 key stations, encompassing 17 public bus stations and 12

The United Arab Emirates' banking sector is set to maintain its earnings growth trajectory into 2025, bolstered by robust government support and strong capital positions, even as monetary policy tightens. Consultancy firm Alvarez & Marsal reports that aggregate earnings for UAE-listed banks increased by 8% year-on-year in 2024, primarily due to a 26.8% decline in annual impairment charges, attributed to recoveries and reduced write-downs. However, return on equity and return on assets experienced declines of 87 basis points and

Uber, in partnership with Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority , has unveiled 'Uber School,' a transportation service tailored for students aged eight and above. This initiative aims to provide families with a cost-effective and secure solution for daily school commutes.Operating between 6 AM and 6 PM, Uber School aligns with standard school hours and accommodates extracurricular activities. Parents can anticipate savings of up to 35% on transportation expenses when booking ten or more trips weekly. The service is integrated into

Abu Dhabi-based investment platform 2PointZero has announced its intention to list on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange by the end of this year. Group Chief Executive Mariam Al Mheiri disclosed the company's plans during the Investopia conference in the UAE capital on Wednesday.Established last year by International Holding Company , 2PointZero boasts an asset base exceeding Dh100 billion . The platform encompasses a diverse portfolio, including private investment firm Chimera and its subsidiaries Lunate and Beltone. Other notable entities under

The American University in Dubai has formalised a significant partnership with the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine to establish the AUD School of Medicine in Dubai. This collaboration marks a major step in enhancing medical education in the UAE, leveraging Penn Medicine’s vast expertise to provide world-class training and resources to future healthcare professionals in the region.The new school aims to offer a rigorous medical programme that aligns with international standards, drawing upon Penn Medicine’s reputation

Dubai has introduced 'Salama,' an artificial intelligence-powered platform designed to expedite visa renewals, allowing residents to complete the process in minutes without physical paperwork or visits to service centres. The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs announced this initiative on Monday, aligning with the UAE's broader digital transformation strategy.Salama automatically recognises user details upon login, displays the status of dependents' visas, and highlights the remaining days until expiration. Residents can select the desired renewal period, process requests immediately,