Dubai scores global gaming partnerships at Gamescom 2025
Dubai, UAE - Dubai Future Foundation (DFF) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with XSOLLA, a global company that helps developers monetise and scale their video games. The joint venture will also highlight key activities and thought leadership initiatives within the gaming sector. The partnership was signed under the framework...
First India-Pakistan match since conflict fires up Asia Cup
New Delhi, India -- A blockbuster between India and Pakistan headlines the Asia Cup starting on Tuesday as they face off for the first time in cricket since the military conflict in May. Along with regional bragging rights, the Twenty20 competition will serve as a build-up towards the T20 World...Less tax, more luxury: millionaires flock to Dubai for its zero income tax policy
Rich people are flocking to Dubai in record numbers, drawn to the desert city by its zero income tax policy and easy luxury lifestyle that has become harder to maintain elsewhere.Big-ticket events boost international tourism and economic growth
Dubai, UAE -- ‘Big-ticket’ events are playing a pivotal role in driving international tourism and accelerating economic growth, according to experts speaking recently at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025. In the GCC alone, the event and exhibition market is expected to reach US$827 million by 2029, growing at a CAGR...Dubai police retrieve stolen diamond worth $25 million
Dubai, United Arab Emirates -- Dubai police said on Monday they caught three thieves just hours after they stole a precious pink diamond worth $25 million. "The Dubai Police General Command has foiled the theft of a very rare pink diamond, valued at $25 million," the police said in a...Larry Fink, André Hoffmann take interim helm at WEF, pledge renewed push for global cooperation
The World Economic Forum has named BlackRock CEO Larry Fink and Swiss entrepreneur André Hoffmann as interim co-chairs, with both leaders vowing to steer the organization into “a new chapter” focused on global collaboration and shared prosperity.Dubai GDP grows by 4 percent to reach $32.58 billion in first quarter of 2025
Human Health and Social Work activities registered the highest growth rate, rising 26 percent compared to the same period last year.Hospitality leaders to gather in Dubai for Commercial Strategy Conference
Dubai, UAE -- The region's top hospitality professionals will converge at the Conrad Dubai Hotel on November 25-26, 2025, for the eighth annual Commercial Strategy Conference (CSC) MEA. Organized by the Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI) Middle East and Africa, the event has been the premier gathering for...Dubai records over 4,000 new-real estate activities in H1 2025
Dubai, UAE -- Dubai’s real estate market recorded 4,049 new activities in the first half of this year, reflecting the emirate’s growing appeal as a leading investment destination. This growth has been enabled by an advanced regulatory framework that promotes the smooth conduct of real estate activities and strengthens market...DEWA profit after tax $789m
It will pay $843m in H1 dividend.24 Dubai real-estate projects worth $1.22bn completed in H1
Dubai, UAE -- The first half of 2025 saw the completion of 24 real estate projects valued at AED 4.5 billion ($1.22 billion), according to data from the Dubai Land Department (DLD). This momentum is part of a wider growth trajectory, with 726 projects currently under construction across the emirate,...DIFC records 25 percent rise in registered firms in H1 2025
Dubai, UAE -- Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), the leading global financial center in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA), said Monday that it witnessed a saw a record number of new firms establishing operations in the center in the first half of 2026. The total number of...ADNOC expands its STEM Education Programme to empower UAE students in AI
Abu Dhabi, UAE – ADNOC has expanded its Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education programme to empower UAE students in artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced technology through an initiative called ‘STEM for Life: Future of AI Schools Challenge’ which held the finals today at the Abu Dhabi Energy Centre....Real estate transactions in five UAE emirates reach $65 billion in Q1
Abu Dhabi, UAE -- Real estate transactions across five emirates in the UAE surged to over AED 239 billion ($65 billion) in the first quarter of 2025, underpinned by investor confidence, flexible regulations, and expanding project pipelines, official data showed. More than 94,719 sales, purchase, and mortgage deals were recorded...Blending AI with a Human Touch: Al Rais Travel Eyes the Future of Tourism
Executive Director Mohamed Al Rais unveils a tech-human hybrid approach to personalize travel experiences — and announces a strategic India office to tap into Dubai’s largest source market.Technology and Short-Term Rentals in Dubai
Dubai’s short-term rental sector is being reshaped by cutting-edge proptech. From AI-driven guest personalization and immersive VR tours to smart home automation and sustainable energy solutions, technology is enhancing guest satisfaction and owner efficiency. With its strong digital infrastructure and appetite for innovation, Dubai is poised to lead the global...Loyalty Lost: How brands need to adapt to the modern traveler
Dubai, UAE: As 2025 unfolds, travel brands are facing a significant challenge: customer loyalty. Traditional rewards programmes, often based on points systems, struggle to meet the expectations of modern travelers who increasingly value personalised experiences over generic incentives. To stay competitive, brands must move away from price-based rewards like discounts, which can...ATM 2025 to showcase 2,800 firms, 17 percent from Middle East
Dubai, UAE: The Arabian Travel Market, which will take place from Apr 28 to May 1 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, will bring together professionals and leaders from all travel sectors and verticals including leisure, business events (MICE), luxury and corporate travel sectors. At a press conference, RX Global,...Osaka Expo 2025 opens: World gathers amidst hope and global tensions
From quirky Hello Kitty algae sculptures to demonstrations of flying vehicles and lunar samples, the Osaka Expo offers a fascinating glimpse into the present and future of the world.Salik 2024 net profit before taxes $348m
The toll operator's revenue increased by 6% to $626 million.IMF projects 3.3% global growth for 2025, MENA to rebound to 3.6%
Dubai, UAE -- The International Monterey Fund (IMF) has projected global growth to remain at 3.3 percent this year and the next, before slowing to just above 3 percent over the next five years, well below the historical average.IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva said that growth in the Middle East...Dubai College of Tourism drives hospitality growth
The Dubai College of Tourism (DCT) is driving innovation in hospitality training through technology, vocational education, and industry collaborations. With digital platforms like ‘Dubai Way’ and partnerships with Coursera and top hotels, DCT is equipping a skilled workforce to support Dubai’s growth as a global tourism hub.Dubai’s real estate sector records $207 billion in transactions in 2024
Dubai, UAE -- Dubai’s real estate sector recorded a total of 2.78 million procedures in 2024, the highest in its history, with a combined value of AED 761 billion ($207.19 billion).The record number of procedures, which include both real estate transactions and rental agreements, represent a 17 percent increase compared...UAE leads solar energy growth with strategic projects
Abu Dhabi, UAE - A new report highlighted the UAE's leadership in the regional solar energy sector, driven by initiatives like the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050, targeting 75 percent clean energy by 2050, and Abu Dhabi Vision 2030, aiming for 30 percent renewable energy within five years.The "Solar Outlook...Latifa bint Mohammed awards UK’s Simon Squibb with ‘One Billion Award’ at 1 Billion Followers Summit
Dubai, UAE - Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, presented the prestigious ‘One Billion Award’ to content creator Simon Squibb from the UK.The award ceremony was held during the third edition of the 1 Billion Followers Summit, the world’s largest gathering...1 Billion Followers Summit: AI’s transformative role in content creation highlighted by YouTube, Meta, Duolingo
Dubai, UAE - The 1 Billion Followers Summit, the world’s largest event dedicated to the content creator economy, brought together industry titans to explore the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on content creation. With participation from YouTube, Meta, and Duolingo, the Summit underscored the evolving landscape of digital media...Dubai vs Doha: The Battle for Creator Economy Supremacy and Innovation in the Middle East
Dubai’s aggressive initiatives like the 1 Billion Followers Summit and specialized creator visas put it ahead in attracting global talent, whereas Doha’s $1 billion investment focuses more on arts and sports-driven content creation.Dubai ranks among world’s top 10 cities in Global Power City Index for second consecutive year
Dubai, UAE - Dubai has been ranked eighth worldwide and first in the Middle East in the Global Power City Index 2024 (GPCI) for the second year in a row.In an annual study released by Japan’s Mori Memorial Foundation, the index highlights Dubai’s role as a leader in innovation, economic...Dubai real estate sets all-time record in 2024
Dubai’s real estate market has had a record-breaking year, with new milestones being set throughout 2024, culminated in an all-time peak of 180,900 transactions worth AED 522.1 billion (US$145 billion)Dubai real estate market saw record transactions worth $142.1bn in 2024
Dubai, UAE -- Dubai’s real estate market recorded 180,900 transactions worth AED 522.1 ($142.1 billion) in 2024, a market report said.The report by fäm Properties said 2024 saw big leaps of 36 percent and 27 percent respectively on the previous high of 133,100 sales worth AED 411.1 billion in 2023.In...Key healthcare digital trends to watch in 2025
From AI-powered content creation to automated feedback systems, technology is streamlining operations and improving patient care.World’s rarest coffees to be auctioned for first time in Dubai
Dubai, UAE -- Coffee aficionados and industry leaders will converge in Dubai this February at World of Coffee (WOC) Dubai 2025 to participate in its first DMCC Specialty Coffee Auction, where some of the globe's rarest and most exquisite coffee beans will be up for bidding.Through a special strategic partnership...How Eco-Conscious Practices Are Shaping the Future of Luxury Spas?
In recent years, ‘wellness’ has come to mean many things for hotel operators. The term encompasses guest-centric experiences, environmental initiatives and architectural innovations – extending beyond the spa or health facilities to holistically shape the entire hotel journey.As Area Director of Spa & Wellness, Middle East with Mandarin Oriental Hotel...Bridging skills gap: UAE, Singapore lead the way
The two countries have adopted a people-centric and collaborative upskilling approach, says Till Leopold, Interim Head of Knowledge Communities at WEF.Putin thanks UAE president for positive role in prisoner exchange with Ukraine
UAE President Sheikh Mohamed meets his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin to discuss bilateral ties and Middle East. Sheikh Mohamed will also attend BRICS Summit in the Russian city of Kazan.Global Future Councils meet calls for collective action to tackle global crises
Over 500 experts gathered at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting of the Global Future Councils 2024 in Dubai to address the world’s most pressing issues related to economic inequality, climate emergency and geopolitical tensions.WEF Global Future Councils meet in Dubai to tackle pressing global issues
More than 500 experts are expected to attend the meeting. Amid a rapidly shifting global landscape of geopolitical tensions, climate emergency and economic inequality, the meeting will provide a crucial space for collaborative, innovative thinking.Dubai’s night beaches a cool solution to summer heat
With temperatures regularly topping 40 degrees Celsius, outdoor activities are severely limited. More than one million people have visited the night beaches since last year.UAE to host 2025 Asia-Pacific amateur championship at Emirates Golf Club
Gotemba, Japan -- The Asia-Pacific Golf Confederation (APGC), the Masters Tournament and The R&A has announced that the 16th Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship will be contested at Emirates Golf Club’s Majlis Course in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), 23-26 October 2025. The Championship will return to Dubai and the Middle East...Updates: President Biden says ‘discussing’ possible Israeli strikes on Iran oil facilities
Oil prices shoot up as Biden suggests that Israel might target Iranian oil facilities, while GCC Arab states, including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, reassure Iran of neutrality in the conflict between Tehran and Israel.Foreigners and institutions pour $4.9 billion into UAE equities
Abu Dhabi, UAE -- Net investments by foreigners and institutions in UAE equities amounted to AED 18.3 billion ($4.9 billion) as a result of purchases during the first nine months of this year, distributed by AED 15.6 billion in the Abu Dhabi market and AED 2.64 billion in the Dubai...Dubai tourism shines: 25 percent repeat visitors, rising AI use
Dubai, UAE -- Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM) has confirmed that 25 percent of visitors to Dubai are repeat visitors, reflecting their satisfaction with the experience the city has to offer.Speaking at a keynote session on the second day of the Dubai AI and Web 3 Festival,...‘Beautiful thing’: hijab-wearing singer looks to inspire
Dubai, United Arab Emirates - In a Dubai recording studio, hijab-clad Ghaliaa Chaker tunes her guitar and belts out original songs as she builds a career that is turning heads for more than just her music.The 26-year-old Syrian, who was raised in the United Arab Emirates, has become a social media...UAE’s Etihad finds ‘no issues’ with engines of A350 fleet: statement
Rolls-Royce said on Thursday it was launching "a one-time precautionary engine inspection programme" which may apply "to a portion of the A350 fleet". The first A350 was delivered to Qatar Airways at the end of 2014. A total of 87 A350-1000 aircraft are currently in service worldwide.Domestic worker visa applications in UAE up 66% in June 2024, says a report
The UAE, relying on domestic workers (5% of the population), invests $3 billion annually, highlighting the rising demand for domestic help among local and expatriate families.Dubai real estate sales hit record $13.6bn in July, growth eases
Dubai, UAE - Dubai's real estate market reached a new peak in July, with sales hitting an all-time high of AED50.1 billion ($13.6 billion). Although the market continued to grow, the year-on-year increase slowed to 33% from 53% in June, reflecting a high base effect from the same period in...Dubai welcomes record 9.31 million visitors in first half of 2024
Dubai, UAE - Dubai has reinforced its position as a global tourism leader by welcoming a record 9.31 million international overnight visitors in the first half of 2024, marking a 9 percent increase from the 8.55 million visitors during the same period in 2023. The achievement is aligned with the...Pre-tax net profit of Dubai Financial Market rises 74% to $53m in H1 2024
Dubai, Saudi Arabia - Dubai Financial Market (DFM) today announced its consolidated financial results for the period ended June 30, 2024, with net profit before tax growing to AED 195.4 million (USD 53.2 million), marking a significant 74 percent increase over the same period in 2023.The first half of 2024...Dubai welcomes record 9.31m international overnight visitors in H1
Dubai, UAE -- Dubai welcomed 9.31 million international overnight visitors from January to June 2024, a 9 percent increase over the 8.55 million tourist arrivals in the first half of 2023, according to data published by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).Following a landmark 2023, when the city...Dubai’s GDP tops $31.3 bn in Q1 2024, growing 3.2%
The financial and insurance sector saw a 5.6% rise, reaching USD 4.1 billion (AED 15.1 billion), supported by significant growth in credit and deposit balances.Dubai-based rowers brave Arctic this July to highlight plastics pollution
At an indoor pool in Dubai, three rowers battle artificial rain and simulated waves as they train for an Arctic voyage intended to highlight the perils of marine pollution with focus on plastics.Their quest will take the team from one extreme to the next.Home base is the United Arab Emirates,...