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Investing in African Markets from the UAE: A New Expats’ Gold Rush?

UAE Emerges as Middle East’s Crypto Hub with $34 Billion Surge

Incentives That Matter: What’s Fueling UAE’s Expat Investment Boom

SIPs, Smart Saving & Financial Literacy for Expats

August 2025

Our strategy was driven by the

desire to make an immediate impact

and challenge the status quo.”

NEERAJ KUMAR MISHRA

Founder & CEO,

AMIS Development

FROM A SOLD-OUT DEBUT TO REDEFINING THE RHYTHM OF LUXURY

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One way to keep momentum going is

to constantly have greater goals.

Editor’s Note

The story of the UAE has always been one of ambition,

built on bold ideas, global partnerships, and a drive to

lead. But what’s unfolding now is something deeper.

A quiet but powerful shift is taking place in the way expats

engage with this country. They’re not just passing through

anymore. They’re building lives, launching ventures, acquiring

homes, and planting roots. This edition dives into the heart of

that shift. We take a close look at how expats are investing,

spending, and shaping the future, not just as participants in

the economy, but as key architects of it.

Our cover story features Neeraj Kumar Mishra, Founder

and CEO of AMIS Development, who is leading a new wave

of luxury real estate in Dubai. With over 15 years of industry

experience, Mishra has built AMIS on a philosophy where

excellence in design, technology, and sustainability go

hand in hand. From the Lamborghini-inspired Woodland

Residences in Meydan to upcoming projects that emphasise

smart living, personalisation, and timeless appeal, AMIS has

quickly made its mark. Backed by a seasoned team and global

brand collaborations, Mishra is setting new benchmarks

for luxury living in Dubai, where comfort, exclusivity, and

environmental responsibility define the future.

From property and cross-border capital flows to digital

banking, crypto, and new-age wealth tools, the transformation

is fast, and the impact is wide. The UAE is no longer just a

destination; it’s becoming home for a global class of investors,

entrepreneurs, and professionals ready to build the next

chapter. We hope this issue gives you a clear and compelling

view of that transformation through data, voices, and vision.

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Ayaz Ahmed

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Ambrish Agarwal, Editor in Chief

Ambrish Agarwal, Editor in Chief

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August 2025 www.thefinanceworld.com 7

Contents August

2025

COVER STORY

REAL ESTATE

P44 | Residency by Investment: How

Golden Visas Are Reshaping the Property

Market

Transforming real estate landscapes, golden

visas attract global capital unlocking growth,

innovation, and opportunity across borders.

INTERVIEW

P26 | Measured Ambition

An exclusive with Neeraj Mishra, Founder & CEO of Amis

Developments who disrupted convention by debuting with

exclusive villas to luxury apartments.

INVESTMENT

P38 | SIPs, Smart Saving & Financial Literacy

for Expats

Empowering UAE expats to build financial security through structured

investing, smart saving, and informed choices.

P22 | Pitch Deck – A Founder’s Guide to

Winning Investor Presentations

Manoj Sureka reveals strategies behind investorwinning

presentations.

8 www.thefinanceworld.com August 2025

CRYPTOCURRENCY

OPINION

P54 | UAE Emerges as Middle East’s Crypto

Hub with $34 Billion Surge

Progressive regulation and zero tax policies fuel UAE’s dominance in

digital asset investment.

ECONOMY

P68 | Dubai Investments’ H1 2025 Profit

Before Tax Surges to AED 546.28 Million

How Dubai Investments turned diversification into

record-breaking profits.

WHEELS

P88 | CBUAE’s 2026 Forecast: Why the UAE

Economy is Growing Faster than Expected

CBUAE raises 2026 growth forecast as non-oil sectors and investment

reforms boost economic momentum.

P24 | BMW Neue Klasse

BMW unviels the Neue Klasse concept car

redefining design, performance, and the

future of luxury driving.


Investment

Source: Ai generated

Expat Investors Anchor Wealth in UAE Across Real Estate, Equities, and Funds.

Investing to

Stay: The Shift in

Expat Financial

Behavior

Long-Term Residents Diversify Portfolios

through Prime Properties, ETFs, Private Equity,

and Structured Retirement Vehicles.

The UAE’s evolution from a transient

workplace to a permanent home for expatriates

is reshaping how non-nationals

allocate capital. Fueled by zero personal

income tax, long-term Golden Visas,

and sweeping regulatory reforms, expats

are constructing diversified, multi-asset

portfolios that signal commitment to the

Emirates. In 2024, foreign direct investment

inflows surged by 48.7% to USD 45.6

billion, underscoring global confidence in

the UAE’s economic stability and growth

trajectory. Concurrently, Dubai’s property

market saw AED 431 billion in transaction

value in H1 2025 a 25% year-on-year

increase highlighting real estate’s prime

role in expat wealth strategies.


Real estate remains the bedrock

of expatriate portfolios in the

UAE. In the first half of 2025,

Dubai recorded 125,538 transactions

valued at AED 431 billion, marking a

26 percent increase in deal count and a

25 percent surge in value compared to

H1 2024. Foreign investors accounted

for over half of the total transaction

value, drawn by prime yields averaging

5–8 percent annually and the

absence of rental income tax. Major

infrastructure extensions such as the

Blue Line Metro phases and accelerated

developments around Dubai Creek

Harbour have boosted surrounding

rents by up to 23 percent, reinforcing

confidence in bricks-and-mortar assets.

Beyond Dubai, Abu Dhabi’s burgeoning

freehold zones and Ras Al Khaimah’s

incentive-driven projects are also

attracting expat capital seeking both

yield and capital preservation.

Equities and ETFs: Broadening

Horizons

To complement property holdings,

expatriates are increasing allocations

to public equities. The combined market

capitalization of the Abu Dhabi

Securities Exchange (ADX) and Dubai

Financial Market (DFM) rose to AED

3.91 trillion (USD 1.06 trillion) by end-

2024, a AED 257 billion gain year-onyear,

with trading volumes exceeding

142 billion shares. This uptick reflects

relaxed foreign-ownership caps, deeper

liquidity, and a wave of new listings.

Exchange-traded funds domiciled in the

Dubai International Financial Centre

(DIFC) and Abu Dhabi Global Market

(ADGM) notably the iShares MSCI UAE

ETF provide cost-efficient exposure

to blue-chip names while preserving

regulatory ease for non-nationals. Such

vehicles have become a cornerstone for

expats seeking currency diversification

and steady dividend streams.

Private Equity and Alternative

Assets

High-net-worth expatriates and family

offices have turned to private equity and

alternatives to enhance risk-adjusted

returns. Government-backed incubators

and the NextGenFDI initiative have

galvanized investments into renewable

energy, fintech, and healthcare startups,

while Sharia-compliant investment

vehicles broaden appeal across diverse

investor segments. Though precise

allocation figures are proprietary,

industry surveys indicate UAE family

offices allocate a larger share of their

alternative-asset portfolios to direct

private deals particularly within the

home market compared with global

peers. These allocations not only capture

early-stage upside but also align

with the UAE’s strategic diversification

across knowledge-intensive sectors.

Structured End-of-Service Schemes

Recognition of end-of-service gratuities

as investible capital is gaining

momentum. At a June 2025 conference,

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin

Rashid Al Maktoum stated, “In an international

vote of confidence in the

UAE’s economy, the latest UNCTAD

report reveals USD 45.6 billion in FDI

last year, marking a 49 percent growth

compared to the previous year.” He

emphasized the urgency of “establishing

pooled investment funds to manage

retirement and end-of-service benefits,

transforming lump-sum payouts into

inflation-hedged, long-term savings

vehicles”. Emerging pooled-fund structures

promise to deliver professional

management and diversified holdings,

shifting expatriate retirement planning

from fragmented gratuity sums toward

structured, multi-asset solutions.

Cross-Border and Income Tax

Considerations

While the UAE’s zero personal-income-tax

regime frees up capital for

reinvestment locally, many expatriates

must still report global income to

home-country authorities. International

brokerage platforms and offshore

vehicles enable seamless access to

U.S., European, and Asian markets

without compromising UAE tax advantages.

Sophisticated investors

employ currency-hedged instruments,

multi-jurisdictional estate structures,

and compliant reporting frameworks to

optimize cross-border cash flows and

preserve wealth across jurisdictions.

Government Incentives Cementing

Permanence

Policy reforms have bolstered expatriates’

sense of permanence. The Golden

Visa program now grants up to ten-year

residency to property investors and

entrepreneurs, while the 2021 abolition

of the 49 percent foreign-ownership cap

in mainland companies has unlocked

We are committed to

turning residency into

lasting prosperity for all

expatriates.”

Dr Abdul Rahman Abdul Manan Al Awar,

Director-General, Federal Authority for

Government Human Resources

new entrepreneurial channels. These

measures dovetail with record FDI

inflows USD 45.6 billion in 2024 underscoring

the UAE’s strategic focus

on embedding global capital within its

economic fabric. Further incentives,

such as tokenized real estate offerings

and mortgage-backed financing, are

expanding access for a broader segment

of long-term residents.

Expat investors in the UAE have

decisively shifted from short-term gains

to constructing enduring, multi-asset

portfolios. Anchored by real estate

where foreigners account for more than

half of H1 2025 transaction value, and

diversified through equities, private

equity, and structured end-of-service

schemes, these portfolios reflect a longterm

commitment to life and wealth

preservation in the Emirates. With

progressive residency programs, full

ownership rights, and evolving retirement

solutions, the UAE stands ready

to nurture and grow global capital in

pursuit of yield, stability, sustainable

growth, cross-generational prosperity,

and a resilient financial ecosystem.

Together, these dynamics strengthen

the nation’s reputation as a premier

global wealth hub.


FinTech News

UAE Banks and Fintechs Launch Zero-Fee Remittance Offers for Indian Expats

As currency markets shift, Indian

expatriates in the UAE are seizing

new opportunities to send

money home. With the Indian rupee

showing renewed strength against both

the UAE dirham and US dollar, several

UAE banks and digital remittance

services have introduced limited-time

“zero fee” transfer offers to attract

Non-Resident Indians (NRIs). These

promotions aim to add value as NRIs

closely watch exchange rate trends.

As of today, the rupee stands at 23.38

to the dirham, improving from 23.43

the day before and 23.53 earlier in the

week, a rate many considered ideal for

remittances. The rupee’s recent gain is

linked to the weakening US dollar, itself

impacted by economic uncertainties

and investor unease over proposed US

tariff policies. This evolving scenario

is prompting NRIs to act swiftly and

strategically.

IHC Acquires UAE-Based Fintech Firm eFunder

Abu Dhabi’s International Holding

Company (IHC) has acquired

eFunder, a UAE-based fintech

lender, in a move that aligns with its

strategy to diversify its investment

portfolio.

Launched in 2021, eFunder supports

small and medium-sized enterprises

by offering working capital through

invoice factoring, where outstanding

invoices are purchased at a discount,

providing businesses with immediate

liquidity. The company operates a fully

digital platform that leverages artificial

intelligence to assess creditworthiness

and flag potential fraud. Arif Al Alawi,

CEO of eFunder, expressed enthusiasm

about the acquisition, stating that

joining the IHC group will enable the

company to scale its operations and

grow across the UAE and broader region.

Recognised as one of the Middle

East’s most valuable listed companies,

IHC has built a diverse investment

profile spanning healthcare, energy,

real estate, and technology.

Abu Dhabi Police Partners with Presight AI

Advanced Law Enforcement

Abu Dhabi Police has entered

into a strategic partnership

with Presight AI to integrate

advanced artificial intelligence technologies

into its law enforcement

operations. This collaboration aims

to enhance public safety and contribute

to the development of intelligent

urban infrastructure. The partnership

will see the deployment of Presight’s

AI-Policing Suite, a modular platform

incorporating generative AI, AI agents,

and advanced data analytics. These

tools are designed to support policing

efforts and the broader development of

smart cities. The focus will be on developing

systems that enable real-time

threat detection, predictive analytics,

digital forensics, and proactive crime

prevention. Major General Engineer

Nasir Sultan Al-Yabhouni, Director

of the Leadership Affairs Sector at

Abu Dhabi Police, emphasized that

this collaboration supports efforts to

maintain public safety through innovation,

strengthening officers’ ability

to respond faster and make smarter

decisions.

Eazypay Adopts

Mastercard Receivables

Manager in Bahrain

EazyPay becomes Bahrain’s first acquirer

to automate B2B virtual card receivables

using Mastercard’s Receivables Manager

platform, launched on 29 July 2025 in

Manama. This solution streamlines business-to-business

virtual card payments,

eliminating manual processes and integrating

remittance data directly into merchants’

accounting systems with minimal setup and

no API implementation. It enhances working

capital and cash flow while improving

efficiency across sectors. EazyPay CEO

Nayef Tawfeeq Al Alawi emphasised the

solution’s potential to strengthen Bahrain’s

B2B payments ecosystem. Mastercard’s

Saud Swar highlighted that automating

high volumes of virtual card receivables

addresses a key challenge for suppliers.

With global B2B transactions expected

to exceed USD 213 trillion by 2032 and

virtual card spending projected to surpass

USD 14 trillion by 2029, this development

positions Bahrain at the forefront of payment

innovation.


UAE Banks to Raise

Foreign Transaction

Fees in September

From 22 September 2025, banks

across the UAE will introduce a

revised surcharge of 3.14 percent

on all international card purchases and

ATM withdrawals, an increase from

the current 2.09 percent. The updated

fee includes a one percent currency

conversion charge applied by card

networks and a 2.14 percent processing

fee by the issuing bank. A transaction

worth AED 5,000 overseas would now

attract nearly AED 157 in total charges.

UAE residents are being advised to

avoid paying in their home currency

during international transactions, use

multi-currency prepaid cards, or opt

for cards without foreign transaction

fees to save on costs. Several banks

have already begun issuing customer

notifications regarding the fee change.

The adjustment reflects increased operational

costs and currency volatility

impacting financial institutions and

consumers alike.

ADGM FSRA Updates Cyber Risk Rules for January

2026

Abu Dhabi’s Financial Services

Regulatory Authority (FSRA)

has issued an enhanced cyber

risk management framework for Authorised

Persons and Recognised Bodies

operating in ADGM. The revised rules,

published after industry consultation,

require firms to embed cyber-risk considerations

into existing governance

and risk frameworks with compliance

mandatory from 31 January 2026. Key

enhancements include clearer guidance

on proportionality, third-party IT service

provider oversight, and evaluating the

materiality of cyber incidents. The

FSRA will publish an updated incident

notification template by late 2025 to

support this transition. CEO Emmanuel

Givanakis stated that the changes reflect

ADGM’s commitment to responsible

innovation, operational resilience, and

alignment with global best practices.

These revisions reinforce ADGM’s aim

to remain a secure, forward-looking

jurisdiction for financial services.

Jeel and Zypl.ai Partner for AI-Powered Digital

Banking

Lean Technologies Approved

for UAE Open Finance

Jeel, the digital arm of Riyad Bank,

has signed a memorandum of

understanding with zypl.ai to

deploy synthetic data and artificial

intelligence tools within Saudi Arabia’s

growing digital banking landscape.

This partnership will allow Jeel to

leverage zypl.ai’s data generation and

risk analytics technology to improve

credit decisioning, fraud detection,

and product personalisation. The

integration is expected to reduce

model development time, improve

accuracy in customer scoring, and

enhance privacy safeguards by limiting

dependence on real customer data. It

also aims to embed real-time analytics

into Jeel’s infrastructure to support

faster authorisation and wider financial

inclusion. This initiative reflects

Saudi Arabia’s broader commitment

to building a digitally advanced and

data-driven ecosystem as part of its

national Vision 2030 goals.

Lean Technologies has received

in-principle approval from the

UAE Central Bank to operate

under the country’s newly introduced

Open Finance framework. This positions

Lean as one of the first companies

to be regulated under the framework,

allowing it to provide secure

financial data sharing and payment

services. Lean’s platform supports fintechs,

lenders, and banks by offering

API infrastructure for account-to-account

payments, data aggregation,

and embedded finance products. The

approval is a key milestone as the UAE

aims to enhance financial inclusion,

innovation, and interoperability in

its digital economy. Lean Technologies

plans to expand its operations

throughout the UAE and the wider

MENA region, supporting the national

digital transformation initiatives.

This regulatory endorsement reflects

the UAE’s commitment to fostering

a more open, connected, and secure

financial ecosystem for consumers and

businesses alike.


Investment


Expatriates in the UAE are increasingly investing in property, businesses, and savings schemes

Incentives That Matter:

What’s Fueling UAE’s

Expat Investment

Boom

Rising Investor Confidence among Expatriates is

Reshaping the UAE’s Economic Landscape

The United Arab Emirates is witnessing a

remarkable rise in expatriate investment,

supported by forward-looking government

initiatives and a favourable economic

climate. Long-term residency options,

flexible business ownership laws, and

a tax-efficient system are prompting expatriates

to shift from short-term earners

to long-term stakeholders. Programmes

such as the Golden Visa and expanding

opportunities in free zones are encouraging

professionals and entrepreneurs to

invest in property, businesses, and financial

instruments within the country. This

evolving investment landscape reflects

the UAE’s broader ambition to become a

global economic powerhouse, positioning

itself as a stable, growth-oriented destination

for international talent and capital.


Expatriates across the UAE are

leading a significant investment

surge, driven by a combination

of strategic reforms, residency programmes,

and fiscal benefits that make

the country one of the most attractive

destinations for global investors. In

recent years, the UAE has seen a consistent

rise in foreign investment, particularly

from high-net-worth individuals,

due to its stable economy, tax-friendly

environment, and investor-focused

regulations. These developments have

turned the country into a thriving financial

and commercial hub, prompting

more expatriates to see it not just as

a place to live and work, but also as

a long-term base for wealth creation.

A major factor fuelling this momentum

is the Golden Visa programme,

which offers long-term residency to

investors, entrepreneurs, professionals,

and property buyers. The visa allows

eligible expatriates to live, work, and

study in the UAE without the need for

a national sponsor and with the ability

to sponsor their family members. This

long-term stability has encouraged a

growing number of expats to invest

in local businesses, property, and financial

instruments. The Golden Visa

has become especially appealing to

those looking to secure their future in

a country that continues to diversify its

economy and enhance quality of life.

The UAE’s tax structure also plays a

significant role in drawing expatriate

investment. With zero income tax on

personal earnings, no capital gains tax,

and favourable regulations on business

profits in certain sectors, the country

enables expatriates to retain a higher

portion of their returns. Even with the

introduction of corporate tax in 2023,

the UAE maintained exemptions for

free zone entities that meet specific

criteria and offered a clear regulatory

framework that preserved the country’s

competitive edge. For investors, this

provides both clarity and security,

which are essential for making longterm

financial commitments.

Another pillar supporting the investment

boom is the network of economic

free zones that offer 100 per cent foreign

ownership, full profit repatriation, and

simplified company formation processes.

These zones are designed to cater

to various industries, including finance,

technology, manufacturing, logistics,

and media. Prominent examples include

the Dubai International Financial Centre

and the Abu Dhabi Global Market, both

of which have attracted foreign capital

through a combination of world-class

infrastructure, English common law

frameworks, and access to international

financial markets. These zones

allow expatriate investors to establish

operations without the restrictions that

are common in other jurisdictions.

The real estate sector has seen a

significant increase in interest from

expatriate investors, partly due to

regulatory changes that allow property

ownership in more areas and offer

improved investor protection. Flexible

payment plans, off-plan project

transparency, and the integration of

technology in property transactions

have made investing in the UAE’s

real estate market more accessible.

Residential and commercial properties

alike have become attractive assets,

especially with rental yields in cities

like Dubai and Abu Dhabi remaining

among the highest in the world. The

correlation between real estate investment

and Golden Visa eligibility

further strengthens the sector’s appeal

to expatriates.

In addition to property and business

ownership, financial markets have

become more accessible to expats

through digital platforms and regulatory

enhancements. Fintech adoption in the

UAE is expanding rapidly, with both

local and international platforms offering

investment opportunities in mutual

funds, stocks, and exchange-traded

funds. This digital shift has enabled

more expatriates to manage and grow

their wealth conveniently while benefiting

from the country’s favourable

financial regulations. Robo-advisory

platforms, digital wallets, and savings

schemes backed by major banks and

financial institutions have given expatriates

a broad range of tools to invest

regularly and efficiently.

The government’s commitment to

innovation and economic diversification

is another critical driver. National

strategies such as the UAE Centennial

2071 and the UAE Vision 2031 outline

a long-term approach to economic

resilience, centred around sectors like

renewable energy, advanced technology,

healthcare, and education. These

sectors are opening up new channels

for foreign investment, with public-private

partnerships and government-led

The UAE’s progressive

investment framework

continues to attract and

empower global talent,

enabling long-term

economic participation”

H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of

Economy, UAE

projects actively encouraging expatriates

to participate. The country’s ability

to deliver large-scale infrastructure

and innovation-focused initiatives continues

to provide a strong foundation

for sustainable economic growth and

investor confidence.

Expatriate entrepreneurs are also

responding positively to incentives

designed to foster start-ups and small

businesses. Government initiatives

offer incubator support, reduced licensing

fees, and access to funding

opportunities for promising ventures.

Coupled with simplified visa processes

and minimal bureaucratic delays, these

measures make the UAE one of the most

supportive environments for business

creation. This has led to a notable rise

in expatriate-led start-ups, particularly

in the fields of e-commerce, fintech, and

health tech. Many of these ventures are

now scaling regionally, contributing to

the UAE’s broader role as a regional

innovation hub.

Furthermore, lifestyle benefits play a

considerable part in the decision-making

process for expatriate investors.


Merger and Acquisition News

ADQ Completes Acquisition of Majority Stake in Aramex

ADQ, a sovereign investor focused

on critical infrastructure and

global supply chains, announced

that the voluntary tender offer for Aramex,

submitted by its wholly owned

subsidiary Q Logistics Holding LLC, is

now unconditional. Following this development,

ADQ will become the majority

shareholder in Aramex, holding 63.16

percent of shares when combined with

the stake of AD Ports Group, in which

ADQ is the majority shareholder. The

milestone comes after securing all required

antitrust and foreign direct investment

approvals, as well as exemptions and

waivers from relevant authorities in the

UAE and abroad. Acquiring a controlling

stake in Aramex enhances ADQ’s role in

the logistics ecosystem, spanning express

delivery, freight forwarding, third-party

logistics, and warehousing, services

vital for enabling seamless trade flows

and connecting transport infrastructure

to end users.

Kamco Invest Takes

Strategic Stake in

MENA Restaurant-Tech

Leader Foodics

Kamco Invest, the Kuwait-based nonbanking

financial powerhouse, has

confirmed that its private equity

arm acquired a stake in Foodics, the Saudibased

cloud-native restaurant technology

and payments platform. Founded in

2014, Foodics now serves over 33,000

restaurants and processed more than

USD 10 billion in GMV during 2024. The

investment completed in Q4 2024 with all

legal and regulatory processes recently

finalized. It supports Kamco’s strategic

push into high-growth, tech-enabled

sectors across the Gulf, particularly

companies preparing for IPOs on local

capital markets such as Tadawul.

Foodics’ integrated platform enables

restaurant operators, from cloud kitchens

to dining establishments, to manage

orders, finances, operations, and funding

via a single system. Kamco Invest views

this acquisition as a long-term value play

aligned with its Gulf tech growth.

Titan to Acquire 67% Stake in Dubai-based Damas

Jewellery for $283M

Titan Company Ltd, the Tata‐Group

jewellery powerhouse, has agreed

to acquire a 67% majority stake in

Dubai-based luxury jewellery retailer

Damas LLC for an enterprise value of

AED 1.04 billion (c. $283.2 million). The

acquisition will be executed through

its wholly owned subsidiary, Titan

Holdings International FZCO, and is

expected to close by January 31, 2026,

subject to regulatory clearance. Damas

operates 146 stores across the six GCC

countries, including UAE, Saudi Arabia,

Qatar, Oman, Kuwait and Bahrain.

The deal will rapidly extend Titan’s

institutional reach beyond its current

13 Tanishq stores in the region. Titan

also holds an option to acquire the

remaining 33% stake after December

31, 2029. This move marks a bold step

in Titan’s international expansion and

diversification beyond its traditional

South Asian diaspora focus.

Network International and Magnati Merger Gets

Key Approval

Dubai-based Network International

and Abu Dhabi’s Magnati have

secured key regulatory approvals

to move forward with their planned

merger. The deal, backed by a Brookfieldled

consortium, will create one of the

largest payment processing companies

in the Middle East and Africa. Once

completed, the combined entity will handle

a total payment volume exceeding USD

400 billion, serving over 250 financial

institutions, 240,000 merchants, and

more than 20 million cardholders across

50+ regional markets. The companies

expect the merger to be finalised by

Q3 2025, following the completion of

remaining procedural requirements.

The consolidation aims to strengthen

the UAE’s position as a regional fintech

hub by enhancing payment infrastructure,

expanding merchant services, and

supporting digital transactions across

key growth markets.


ADNOC’s $18.7 B Santos bid Redefines Global LNG Market

Abu Dhabi National Oil Company

(ADNOC), through its XRG investment

vehicle, has unveiled

an ambitious $18.7 billion takeover bid

for Australia’s Santos Ltd, signalling

its most aggressive push yet into the

international natural gas sector. The

acquisition, if completed, would give

ADNOC direct access to Santos’ liquefied

natural gas (LNG) projects in Australia

and Papua New Guinea, strengthening

its supply portfolio at a time when

global LNG demand is expected to

rise sharply over the next decade. By

securing these assets, ADNOC moves

closer to its goal of producing 20–25

million tonnes of LNG annually by

2035. Yet, the bid faces considerable

scrutiny from Australian regulators,

given national security sensitivities

and the scale of foreign ownership in

energy infrastructure. Market watchers

note that Santos shares remain below

the offer price, highlighting investor

caution about approval risks and timing.

EHC Investment Boosts

Safety Leadership

with Tamouh Fire

Acquisition

EHC Investment LLC (“EHC”),

through its safety division Emirates

International Firefighting

(“EIFF”), has successfully acquired

100% of Tamouh Fire and Safety (“Tamouh”),

a leading provider of fire

protection solutions in Abu Dhabi.

This strategic move strengthens EHC’s

commitment to enhancing the nation’s

safety infrastructure and expands its

presence within this critical industry.

The acquisition also aims to foster

innovation in fire and life-safety services

across the region. Tamouh is

recognised for its broad range of fire

protection services, including system

design, installation, maintenance, and

emergency response. Its dedication to

complying with international standards

and integrating advanced technologies

has earned it a strong reputation among

residential, commercial, and government

clients throughout Abu Dhabi.

Multiply Buys 68% Stake in Spanish Fashion

Retailer

Multiply Group, the Abu Dhabi-listed

investment holding

firm, has made its first foray

into the European market as part of its

ongoing global expansion drive with

the acquisition of a controlling stake

in Spanish fashion retailer Castellano

Investments, the parent company of

the Tendam brands. The transaction,

valued at AED 5.6 billion (USD1.5 billion),

grants Multiply Group a 67.91%

share in the company, strengthening its

international portfolio and exposure to

the European retail sector. Despite the

acquisition, US-based Llano Holdings

and Arcadian Investments, which act

as corporate vehicles for CVC Funds

and PAI Partners, will continue to

hold minority stakes in Castellano

Investments. Multiply Group said the

deal aligns with its strategy to diversify

investments across high-potential markets

while leveraging strategic global

opportunities.

UAE›s Al-Futtaim to Acquire 49.95% of Saudi›s

Cenomi Retail

Emirati conglomerate Al-Futtaim

has announced plans to acquire

a 49.95% stake in Saudi Arabian

franchiser Cenomi Retail in a transaction

valued at over 2.5 billion riyals (USD

667 million), according to a statement

issued by Cenomi Retail on Sunday.

The agreement involves the company’s

founding shareholders selling shares to

Al-Futtaim at 44 riyals each under a formal

share purchase agreement. In line

with the deal’s completion conditions,

both parties are also in discussions to

arrange a shareholder loan of no less

than 1.3 billion riyals to strengthen

Cenomi Retail’s financial position.

Cenomi Retail is a leading franchiser

in Saudi Arabia, operating a diverse

portfolio of food and retail outlets.

Meanwhile, UAE-based Al-Futtaim is

a major private business group with

operations spanning retail, real estate,

and financial services.


Investment


UAE Expats Seize High-Growth Opportunities in Africa’s Emerging Markets

Investing in African

Markets from the UAE:

A New Expats’ Gold

Rush?

Frontier equities, renewable projects, and

strategic reforms beckon UAE investors toward

Africa’s next investment frontier.

A burgeoning wave of UAE-based expatriates

is pivoting from local assets to

African opportunities, drawn by highgrowth

markets, reform-driven policies,

and deepening Gulf–Africa ties. In 2024,

Africa attracted a record USD 97 billion in

Foreign Direct Investment up 75 percent

year-on-year underscoring the continent’s

emergence as a premier frontier for global

capital. UAE sovereign and private vehicles

spearheaded this surge, with North

Africa alone receiving USD 38.5 billion, led

by mega-projects in Egypt and Morocco.

Buoyed by bilateral trade agreements and

targeted infrastructure financing, expats

are now eyeing pan-African portfolios

that promise diversification, yield, and

long-term growth.


Historically, UAE investments in

Africa focused on energy and

logistics. Recent liberalization

and the Africa Continental Free

Trade Area (AfCFTA) have widened

scope, enabling expatriates to access

consumer markets, agribusiness, and

technology sectors. Egypt’s landmark

Ras El-Hekma coastal city project

valued at USD 35 billion exemplifies

UAE-led urban development, while

Masdar’s partnership with Africa50

to deploy USD 10 billion into clean

energy signals a pivot toward sustainable

infrastructure. These initiatives

reflect both sovereign ambition and

private-sector opportunism, creating a

fertile environment for expat investors

The UAE has long

recognised the strategic

importance of Africa as a

key trade and investment

partner.”

H.E. Juma Alkait, Assistant Undersecretary

for International Trade Affairs, Ministry of

Economy

to participate in high-impact ventures.

Sectoral Opportunities: From Real

Estate to Renewable Energy

Real estate remains a cornerstone

of expatriate allocations, with Gulfbacked

funds financing mixed-use

developments across Accra, Dakar, and

Nairobi. In North Africa, Moroccan and

Egyptian governments have offered

land-grant incentives to Gulf developers,

propelling a 30 percent uptick in

Gulf-sourced real estate joint ventures

in 2024. Meanwhile, renewable energy

stands out: at COP28, Sultan Al Jaber

announced USD 4.5 billion for African

green projects, aiming for 15 GW of new

capacity by 2030. This builds on the

UAE’s Etihad 7 initiative, which targets

electrification of 100 million African

households with clean power by 2035.

For expats, renewable-focused private

equity and green bonds now provide

attractive, ESG-aligned entry points.

Beyond infrastructure, Africa’s nascent

tech ecosystems are magnetizing

UAE family offices and high-net-worth

expats. Venture capital flows into African

startups reached USD 4 billion

in 2024, with fintech, agritech, and

healthtech leading funding rounds.

UAE accelerator programs operated

through Dubai Future Foundation

and Abu Dhabi’s Hub71 have launched

African cohorts, offering mentorship

and co-investment channels. These

platforms enable expatriates to back

early-stage ventures with scalable

models, leveraging UAE expertise in

digital payments and logistics to drive

pan-continental expansion.

Government Support and Strategic

Frameworks

UAE authorities have reinforced investor

confidence through bilateral frameworks

and ministerial engagement. At

the 2024 Rabat African Investment Forum,

H.E. Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan

affirmed: “Under the leadership of His

Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed

Al Nahyan, the UAE is continuously

working to ensure the establishment of

a prominent and effective regional Africa

investment Earthshot partnership,

which reflects the UAE’s commitment

to enhance long-term partnerships that

aim to develop and invest in Africa as

equal economic partners to achieve

mutual interests.”

Such declarations are backed by the

UAE-Kenya Comprehensive Economic

Partnership Agreement, signed in

January 2025, which reduces tariffs

on key exports and eases regulatory

barriers for UAE investors. Expat

portfolios can now integrate African

equities via ETFs listed in DIFC and

ADGM, underpinned by reciprocal

market-access provisions.

Risk Management and Cross-Border

Considerations

While Africa’s growth trajectory is

compelling, expatriates must navigate

currency volatility, regulatory heterogeneity,

and governance variance.

Credit enhancements from African

Development Bank-UAE partnerships

mitigate sovereign-risk perceptions, yet

due diligence remains paramount. Platforms

offering local custodianship and

multi-currency accounts help manage

FX exposures. Legal structures such as

Mauritius-based funds facilitate repatriation

and tax efficiency, preserving

the UAE’s zero-income-tax advantage

while complying with home-country

reporting requirements.

South Africa exemplifies mature-market

entry for UAE expats. In 2024,

UAE investments in South Africa

totaled over USD 1.3 billion, spanning

renewable energy, logistics, and hospitality.

Co-investment vehicles between

Dubai’s DP World and South African

ports authority illustrate synergies in

trade facilitation. Expat investors can

access South African REITs through

onshore and offshore channels, tapping

dividend yields north of 6 percent

in rand-denominated assets. These

offerings diversify currency profiles

and hedge against regional oil-price

sensitivities.

The Expat Investor Profile: From

Opportunistic to Strategic

The UAE expat community encompasses

both tactical allocators, seeking

yield enhancement, and strategic

builders, aiming for generational

wealth. Entry-level products, such

as Africa-focused mutual funds and

green finance sukuk, appeal to those

new to the continent. Conversely, bespoke

co-investment mandates with

sovereign wealth funds cater to ultrahigh-net-worth

individuals, enabling

direct stakes in port concessions, renewable-energy

parks, and agribusiness

clusters. Across this spectrum, expats

leverage advisory services licensed

in free zones to structure compliant,

tax-efficient portfolios.

As Africa cements its role as the

fastest-growing FDI destination, UAE

expatriates are seizing a “gold rush” of

continent-wide opportunities.


Banking News

Dubai Financial

Centre Registrations

Rise 32% in H1 2025

The Dubai International Financial

Centre (DIFC) witnessed

a strong performance in the

first half of the year, recording a 32%

increase in company registrations as

1,081 new firms set up operations.

These included a diverse mix of asset

management firms, hedge funds, and

family offices, highlighting the centre’s

growing appeal as a global financial

hub. By the end of June, the total number

of active companies reached 7,700,

reflecting a 25% year-on-year rise.

This growth aligns with the broader

economic strategy of Gulf countries to

diversify away from oil and strengthen

non-oil sectors such as financial

services. DIFC’s business-friendly

environment, transparent regulatory

framework, and proximity to some of

the world’s largest sovereign wealth

funds continue to attract international

interest. The number of hedge funds

operating in the centre jumped by

72% to 85.

UAE Bank Investments Surpass $211B by April

2025

Investments by banks operating in

the UAE continued their upward

trend, reaching AED 774.3 billion

by the end of April 2025. This marks

a 16.2% annual increase compared to

April 2024 and a 1.4% rise from March

2025.

According to banking indicators

released by the Central Bank of the

UAE (CBUAE), investments in debt

securities grew to AED 352.4 billion by

the end of April. Meanwhile, securities

held to maturity totalled AED 345.8

billion. Banks also invested AED 19.3

billion in stocks and AED 56.8 billion

in other investment instruments. Total

bank credit rose to over AED 2.259

trillion, reflecting an annual growth

of 9.5%. Of this, domestic credit accounted

for approximately AED 1.881

trillion, while foreign credit reached

AED 378.3 billion.

UAE Banks to Raise Global Transaction Fees on

Credit, Debit Cards

UAE banks are set to increase

international transaction fees

on credit and debit cards from

2.09% to 3.14%, effective September

22, 2025. This hike applies to both

purchases made overseas and ATM

withdrawals conducted abroad using

UAE-issued cards. The revised fee

structure includes a 1% currency conversion

fee imposed by the card network

provider, such as Visa, Mastercard,

or American Express, along with

a 2.14% charge from the issuing bank.

For instance, an overseas transaction

worth AED 5,000 will now attract a

fee of AED 157, up from the previous

AED 105—marking a noticeable AED

52 increase. Frequent travellers are

advised to manage costs by avoiding

Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC)

in AED, minimising international ATM

usage, and opting for travel-focused

cards or prepaid travel cards to reduce

fee burdens.

Dubai Islamic Bank Executes First Islamic Finance Deal with Turkish Airlines

Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB) has

facilitated Turkish Airlines’

inaugural Shariah-compliant

aircraft financing transaction. The

deal involves a 12-year Islamic finance

lease (Ijarah) for an Airbus A350-941,

marking a significant milestone in

integrating Islamic finance structures

into global aviation. This partnership

underscores DIB’s commitment to

expanding Islamic finance’s global

footprint and Turkish Airlines’

dedication to financial innovation.

The agreement was formalized in

Istanbul, reflecting the strengthening

economic ties between the UAE and

Turkey. DIB’s CEO, Dr. Adnan Chilwan,

emphasized that this transaction

highlights Islamic finance’s resilience

and global relevance, while Turkish

Airlines’ Chairman, Prof. Ahmet Bolat,

expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration,

viewing it as a new chapter

in their partnership with leading UAE

institutions.


UAE Securities Regulator Imposes AED 5M Fine for Money Laundering

Violations

The UAE’s Securities and

Commodities Authority (SCA)

has imposed a record AED 5

million fine on a licensed company

for serious violations of anti-money

laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism

financing regulations. An in-depth

investigation uncovered that the company

had collaborated with an overseas entity

to deliberately mislead investors within

the UAE by falsely representing the foreign

partner as licensed and regulated by the

SCA. In response, the SCA has referred

the case to the Public Prosecution,

highlighting its strong commitment

to preserving market integrity and

ensuring strict enforcement of regulatory

compliance. This decisive action is part

of the SCA’s wider strategy to promote

transparency, prevent financial crimes,

and protect investors.

Qatar Central Bank Clarifies

ATM and POS Network

Disruption

The Qatar Central Bank (QCB)

confirmed that a technical fault

affected the National ATM and Point

of Sale (POS) network, causing temporary

interruptions in ATM withdrawals and

POS transactions using debit cards on

terminals not belonging to the card issuer.

The issue lasted about two hours before

QCB’s technical teams swiftly resolved

it, restoring full service. Importantly,

credit card transactions and payments

through the Fawran system were not

impacted, as these operate on separate

networks. The bank reassured customers

that it is committed to maintaining the

reliability and efficiency of Qatar’s banking

infrastructure. QCB continues to monitor

the situation closely to prevent similar

incidents and ensure smooth banking

services for users across the country.

Central Bank of UAE to End SMS and Email OTPs

for Transactions by March 2026

The Central Bank of the UAE

(CBUAE) has announced plans

to discontinue SMS and emailbased

One-Time Passwords (OTPs)

for financial transactions by March

2026.This move is part of a broader

initiative to enhance digital banking

security and transition to more secure,

risk-based authentication methods.

The CBUAE aims to implement these

changes in collaboration with banks

and financial institutions, ensuring

a seamless and secure transition for

customers.The decision reflects the

UAE’s commitment to adopting advanced

technologies and maintaining

the integrity of its financial systems.

Customers are encouraged to stay

informed about the upcoming changes

and to follow guidance from their

respective banks to ensure continued

secure access to banking services.

Mashreq Launches NEO PLUS Saver Account

with UAE’s Savings Interest Rates

Mashreq Bank has introduced

the NEO PLUS Saver Account,

offering one of the UAE’s

most competitive savings interest

rates. Salary customers transferring

a monthly salary of AED 10,000 or

more can earn an annual interest rate

of 6.25%, along with a salary bonus of

AED 3,500 and an Early Bird cashback

bonus of AED 1,500. Non-salary customers

can enjoy a 5% interest rate by

maintaining a balance of AED 50,000

or more, along with an Early Bird cashback

of AED 1,500, which includes 5%

cashback on debit card transactions

and AED 300 cashback on remittances.

The NEO PLUS Saver Account is available

exclusively through the Mashreq

Mobile App, providing customers with

a seamless digital banking experience.

This initiative underscores Mashreq’s

commitment to offering transparent

and rewarding savings solutions to

its customers.


Interview


Pitch Deck - A Founder’s

Guide to Winning Investor

Presentations

Manoj Sureka, CEO & Managing Partner, Synergy Fin. Consulting is a recognised leader in the finance and investment

sector. Manoj has built a strong reputation for his strategic foresight and ability to foster sustainable business growth.

Prior to Synergy, he served as Head of Commercial Banking at RAKBANK and held key roles at institutions including

Mashreq Bank and National Bank of Fujairah. He also serves as a board member and mentor to several companies across

diverse industries.

At Synergy Fin. Consulting, the firm provides end-to-end fundraising advisory services through private equity, debt, and

trade finance solutions. Their clientele includes SMEs and corporates seeking capital through banks, financial institutions,

sovereign wealth funds, and other institutional investors. Synergy also offers specialised advisory services in mergers and

acquisitions and joint-venture.

Exclusive Interview

Q: What is a pitch deck and why do

startups or growing companies need

one?

A pitch deck is a presentation that gives

potential investors a high-level overview

of your business. It helps you communicate

your story, business model, traction,

and vision, all in a way that inspires confidence.

Whether you’re raising equity,

or venture debt, a strong pitch deck is

your first step in investor conversations.

Q: What is the main purpose of a

pitch deck?

The primary goal is to grab investor attention

and create interest in your business.

It serves as a storytelling tool that

simplifies complex information and helps

secure follow-up meetings. A pitch deck

is not about closing a deal immediately,

it’s about opening the door.

Q: What should a great pitch deck

include?

A winning pitch deck typically includes

10–15 concise slides. Numbers build credibility,

Stories build connection, Your pitch

deck needs both. Here’s what to cover:

Cover Slide: Company name, logo, and

contact details

Problem: The key issue your business

solves

Solution / Product: How your offering

addresses the problem

Market Opportunity: Size of the target

market and its growth potential

Business Model: How your company

makes money

Traction: Revenue, users, key milestones,

partnerships

Go-to-Market Strategy: How you plan

to acquire and retain customers

Competition: Key competitors and your

differentiation

Team: Founders and leadership team

with relevant experience

Financials: 3–5 year projections (revenue,

costs, EBITDA)

Funding Ask: How much you’re raising

and how you’ll use it

Vision / Closing: Your mission and call

to action

Q: What are common mistakes founders

make in their pitch decks?

Founders often overcrowd slides with too

much text, making the content hard to

follow. Skipping key sections like competition

or financials can leave critical

gaps. Inconsistent visuals, vague messaging,

and unrealistic projections also

hurt credibility. Lastly, not clearly stating

how much funding is needed and why

can weaken investor confidence.

Q: What design tips should I follow

for my pitch deck?

Every slide is a window into your business,

so it should be clean, focused, and easy

to navigate. Use simple fonts and avoid

cluttered layouts to keep the viewer’s

attention. Replace long paragraphs with

visuals like icons, infographics, or charts

to communicate key points quickly. Each

slide should convey one clear message,

and the overall design should align with

your brand identity to maintain consistency

and professionalism.

Q: What type of funding can I raise

with a pitch deck?

A solid pitch deck can help raise equity

from angel investors, VCs, or institutions.

It’s also useful for revenue-based financing,

venture debt, or attracting strategic

investment from corporates and family

offices.

Q: Final thoughts, how can I make

my pitch deck stand out?

Tell a story. Back it with real numbers.

Keep it simple and visually engaging. Your

pitch deck is not a data dump, it’s your

startup’s voice. It should reflect confidence,

clarity, and purpose.


Wheels

Neue Klasse

180 km/h

Speed

18,000 Nm

Torque

250 kW

Horsepower


BMW’s Neue Klasse is set to define

the brand’s next-generation electric

vehicles, blending advanced

performance, digital innovation, and

sustainable design. Launching in 2025,

the Neue Klasse represents more than

just a model—it is a platform that will

power multiple upcoming EVs, marking

a new chapter in BMW’s electric journey.

Performance is at the core of the Neue

Klasse. Equipped with BMW’s sixth-generation

eDrive technology, the platform offers

a power output of up to 250 kW, equivalent

to approximately 335 horsepower. This

allows the vehicle to achieve a top speed

of 180 km/h, delivering both everyday

practicality and thrilling performance.

Although specific torque figures have not

yet been officially released, expectations

are high for strong, instant acceleration,

typical of electric drivetrains.

The Neue Klasse is designed to support

longer ranges and improved charging

speeds. Thanks to new battery cell technology

and improved efficiency, BMW

claims up to 30 percent more range and

20 percent faster charging compared to

its current EV models. In real terms, this

could mean ranges exceeding 600 km,

making it ideal for both city commuting

and long-distance travel.

BMW has also reimagined the interior

experience, with a minimalistic yet highly

digital cockpit that integrates a head-up

display stretching across the windscreen.

This design combines clean aesthetics

with intuitive functionality.

As BMW transitions into a new electric

era, the Neue Klasse stands as a symbol

of performance, innovation, and the company’s

commitment to premium electric

mobility.


Cover Story Cover Story

COVER

Measured

Ambition

From a sold-out debut to redefining

the rhythm of luxury

STORY


Neeraj Kumar Mishra

Founder & CEO

AMIS Development


Cover Story

Measured ambition is rare in Dubai’s real estate market, where

speed and scale often dominate. Neeraj Kumar Mishra chose a

different entry: launching AMIS Development with a boutique

collection of ultra-luxury villas, a move most developers reserve for

later. The project sold out in a week, instantly establishing the brand’s

credibility and setting its deliberate pace.

That pace is defined by selective growth, precision in execution, and

a philosophy that blends bold vision with disciplined restraint. Backed

by a team with deep market experience, AMIS focuses on projects that

combine design excellence, sustainability, and lasting value. In a city celebrated

for spectacle, it is proving that true impact comes from moving

with intent.

exclusivity, innovation, and community-focused

designs. Unlike traditional

luxury developments that focus solely

on finishes and locations, we prioritize

a holistic approach to design, integrating

cutting-edge technology, sustainability,

and functionality. A significant contributor

to our success has been our key partnerships

with globally renowned brands. For

example, AMIS’s flagship project, Woodland

Residences, launched in early 2024,

has set a new benchmark in the luxury

real estate market. Located in the heart

Exclusive Interview with FinanceWorld

Q: You’ve been part of Dubai’s real

estate transformation for over 15

years. What moments or observations

during this journey convinced

you that it was time to start AMIS

Development?

Dubai’s growth has always fascinated me,

but what truly solidified my decision to

start AMIS Development was the huge

potential in the luxury market for truly

innovative, sustainable, and community-focused

living spaces. I recognized

that buyers were increasingly seeking

more than just opulent properties. They

wanted homes that aligned with modern

lifestyles, homes that combine luxury

with functionality and environmental

consciousness. After spending over 15

years in the industry, it became clear that

I had the experience, insight, and vision to

fill this gap. The time was right to create

something unique that would not only

redefine luxury but also contribute to

the long-term sustainability

of Dubai’s real estate landscape.

Q: When you launched AMIS, what was

the single most important philosophy

you wanted every project to reflect?

From the outset, my

philosophy for AMIS

was centered around

creating spaces that

stand out.”


Every project should reflect a commitment

to excellence, whether through design,

technology, or environmental responsibility.

Adopting this approach meant that our

developments aren’t just about aesthetics;

we aim to improve quality of life, offering

functional, and personalized spaces that

cater to today’s discerning buyers. For

us, luxury is not just a standard but a

lifestyle that resonates with the values

of comfort, wellness, and environmental

harmony.

Q: Dubai’s luxury property market

is crowded with established giants.

How do you position AMIS to stand

apart in both brand perception and

the buyer’s mind?

What sets AMIS apart in Dubai’s competitive

luxury market is our balance of

of Meydan, our $116 million (AED 425

million) villa development integrates Automobili

Lamborghini-branded surfaces

through

an exclusive collaboration with Laminam,

offering unparalleled sophistication and

style.

Q:Your projects, from Woodland Residences

to Woodland Crest, stand out

for their design partnerships and exclusivity.

What’s your creative process

for conceptualizing a development

from the ground up?

Our creative process begins with a deep

understanding of the market and buyer expectations.

We start by identifying what’s

missing in the current landscape, whether

it’s sustainability, advanced technology,

or community integration. Then, we seek

to collaborate with globally recognized

brands and experts to ensure our developments

aren’t just luxury properties, but

unique experiences. We focus on creating

spaces that are both aesthetically pleasing

and functional, incorporating features that

enhance the quality of life for residents.

Every detail, from materials to design, is

carefully considered, ensuring the final

product is timeless and modern, with a

strong emphasis on personalization and

exclusivity.

Q: Most developers ease into the

market, you began with villas and

followed with residences. What was

the thinking behind reversing that

playbook?

Our strategy was driven by the desire to

make an immediate impact and challenge

the status quo. We wanted to start with

the most exclusive product, villas, because

they allowed us to create a strong,

aspirational brand identity. The success

of Woodland Residences gave us the platform

to expand into other segments like

luxury residences, where we could apply

the same level of attention to detail and

high-end design. Our aim was always to

establish AMIS as a brand that redefines

luxury living at every level. Starting with

villas and then expanding to residences,

we’ve been able to showcase the versatility

and broad appeal of our design philosophy.

Q: What drew you to Meydan as the

primary location for your current

projects, and how do you see this

district evolving over the next decade?

Meydan offers a rare combination of

tranquility, proximity to key landmarks,

and growth potential. It’s an emerging

area with the right mix of convenience

and exclusivity, offering easy access to

Dubai’s central business and leisure hubs

while maintaining a serene atmosphere.

As Dubai continues to grow, Meydan

will transform into a vibrant district that

combines luxury living with a wealth of

community amenities. With strategic infrastructure

projects in the pipeline, such as

the new Dubai Metro extension, Meydan

is set to become one of the city’s most

sought-after areas. We’re excited to be

part of its evolution, offering properties

that will stand the test of time in one of

Dubai’s most promising districts.

Q: For a relatively new brand, AMIS

operates with the confidence of a seasoned

player. How intentional was

your approach to building a team

with deep market experience right

from the start?

Building a strong, experienced team was

crucial to our success from day one. I

knew that for AMIS to thrive, we needed

to surround ourselves with individuals

who had both industry expertise and a

passion for innovation. We hired professionals

with deep market knowledge, both

locally and internationally, to ensure we

understood every nuance of the real estate

market. This approach allowed us to make

informed decisions and quickly adapt to

evolving market trends. The result has

been a team that shares a unified vision

and delivers exceptional projects that

exceed client expectations.

Q: Many developers speak about “human-centric”

and “sustainable” living,

but few execute it meaningfully. How

does AMIS translate these concepts

into tangible design features?

At AMIS, we actually integrate sustainability

and human-centric design at every

stage of development. From using energy-efficient

materials and smart home

technology to incorporating green spaces,

each project prioritizes the well-being

of the residents and the environment.

We design our homes with open layouts,

natural light, and spaces that encourage

community interaction. Our focus on sustainability

means that every project is

built with the future in mind, reducing

environmental impact without sacrificing

luxury or comfort. Our work is about

creating living spaces that promote a

balanced lifestyle while also being responsible

stewards of our planet.


Cover Story

Q: You’ve integrated Automobili

Lamborghini-branded surfaces into

one of your developments. Beyond

aesthetics, how do such partnerships

influence buyer decisions and longterm

property value?

Brand partnerships

of this calibre bring

a level of prestige

and exclusivity that

resonates deeply

with our buyers.”

These brands add immense aesthetics,

experiences and value to the overall offering.

Collaborating with such renowned

names signals a commitment to quality,

craftsmanship, and sophistication, which

attracts high-net-worth individuals looking

for unique, one-of-a-kind properties.

Partnerships of this nature elevate the

long-term value of our developments, ensuring

they remain desirable and maintain

their market position even as Dubai’s real

estate market evolves. Buyers are drawn

to the emotional connection these brands

create, adding a sense of pride and exclusivity

to their investment.

Q: Dubai’s property sector has seen

record-breaking transactions in recent

years. From your vantage point,

what’s truly driving this momentum

and how sustainable is it?

Dubai’s property market continues to

thrive because of its strong fundamentals:

economic diversification, world-class

infrastructure, and strategic location as

a global hub. The introduction of initiatives

like the Golden Visa has attracted

international investors, further fueling

demand. What makes this momentum

sustainable is Dubai’s ability to adapt to

market trends, such as hybrid working and

sustainable living, while offering high returns

on investment. The city’s constant

push for innovation in both business and

lifestyle ensures that real estate remains a

stable and attractive sector for both local

and international buyers.


August2025 www.thefinanceworld.com 31

Cover Story

Q: How have initiatives like the

Golden Visa and 100% foreign

ownership changed your buyer

profile in the last 3 years?

Dubai’s Golden Visa program and 100%

foreign ownership rights have fundamentally

transformed the real estate market,

dismantling traditional barriers for global

high-net-worth investors. For AMIS, this

has catalyzed a surge in sophisticated

international buyers from India, China,

and Europe, investors who view Dubai

as a stable, long-term market for strategic

asset acquisition. These discerning

clients demand more than luxury; they

seek exclusivity and prime positioning.

Our developments in prestigious locations

like Meydan and Dubai Islands are

perfectly positioned to meet this evolved

demand, offering lifestyle investments that

reflect Dubai’s emergence as a global hub.

The result is a mature, internationally diverse

market that rewards quality exactly

where AMIS’s commitment to excellence

differentiates us.

Q: With so much global investor interest

in Dubai, what misconceptions do

you think international buyers still

have about this market?

While Dubai’s real estate sector attracts

significant international interest, persistent

misconceptions about market volatility

and transparency continue to create hesitation

among potential investors. Many

still view the market as speculative and

trend-driven rather than fundamentally

sound. These perceptions are increasingly

outdated. Dubai’s robust economic

diversification, world-class infrastructure,

and comprehensive regulatory framework

have created a resilient investment environment.

Global investors are recognizing

that Dubai delivers both stability and

exceptional returns within a transparent,

well-governed market structure.

The luxury sector has evolved dramatically,

shifting from speculative ventures

to sustainable, high-quality developments

that offer genuine long-term value. Sophisticated

international investors now

understand that Dubai’s premium real

estate represents strategic assets in one of

the world’s most dynamic growth markets,

not merely speculative opportunities.

Q: AMIS recently attracted significant

investment commitments from

First APAC Fund VCC. How does this

funding change the scale, speed, and

ambition of your projects?

The investment of up to AED 5 billion

from First APAC Fund VCC significantly

enhances AMIS Development’s ability to

scale quickly, broaden its project portfolio,

and increase its presence in the

luxury real estate sector. This partnership

provides substantial financial backing,

allowing AMIS to fast-track the construction

of ongoing projects like Woodland

Terraces and Woodland Crest while also

introducing new developments in prime

locations like Dubai Islands. The funding

not only accelerates our project timelines

but also enables us to expand into new

regions and markets, both locally and

internationally. We can now pursue more

ambitious, large-scale projects that were

previously beyond our reach, reinforcing


AMIS’s position as a leading player in

Dubai’s luxury real estate market.

Q: Luxury real estate globally, in London,

New York, and Singapore, has

its own identity. Where does Dubai

now stand in that league, and what

is its unique advantage?

Dubai’s luxury real estate market has

transcended regional boundaries to compete

directly with global powerhouses

like London, New York, and Singapore.

What sets Dubai apart is its distinctive

fusion of cutting-edge luxury, visionary

infrastructure, and unparalleled growth

potential. The city’s tax-free environment

creates an immediate competitive advantage,

while its strategic position as the

nexus between East and West opens

access to global capital and diverse investor

bases. This geographic advantage,

combined with world-class connectivity,

positions Dubai as the ultimate gateway

for international wealth.

Dubai’s commitment to sustainability

and smart city technologies signals its evolution

beyond traditional luxury markets.

The city isn’t just keeping pace with global

trends, it’s defining them. Flagship developments

like Palm Jebel Ali and Dubai

Islands exemplify this forward-thinking

approach, offering investors access to

next-generation luxury assets that combine

environmental consciousness with

technological innovation. This adaptability

and vision give Dubai a decisive edge

in attracting investors seeking not just

premium properties but transformative

investment opportunities in a market that

consistently anticipates and shapes the

future of luxury living.

Q: Technology, AI, and smart home innovation

are rapidly evolving. How do

you see these shaping the next wave

of luxury developments in Dubai?

Smart home technology and AI innovations

are fundamentally reshaping the

next wave of luxury developments in

Dubai. At AMIS, we recognize that the

modern luxury buyer is not just seeking

high-end finishes but also intelligent

living environments. Developments like

Woodland Residences integrate automated

systems, allowing residents to control

lighting, security, temperature, and even

entertainment, all from their mobile devices.

The next phase of luxury homes will

be driven by energy-efficient solutions,

integrated technology, and personalized

experiences. AI will play a major role in

creating homes that not only cater to the

residents’ needs but also improve their

quality of life, whether through smart

climate control, predictive maintenance,

or personalized energy consumption. This

technological shift will be a key differentiator

for luxury developers in Dubai

and is something AMIS is prioritizing in

every new project.

Q: What’s one bold prediction you have

for Dubai’s skyline and real estate

market by 2030?

By 2030, Dubai’s skyline will undergo a

transformative shift toward sustainable

architecture, with net-zero developments

becoming the new standard for luxury

living. This evolution will showcase cutting-edge

environmental technologies, including

expansive green roofs, comprehensive

solar-powered residential systems,

and intelligent building automation that

optimizes both energy consumption and

environmental impact. Dubai is positioned

to become the global leader in sustainable

luxury real estate, where technological

innovation seamlessly integrates with

environmental stewardship. This paradigm

shift will attract a new generation

of environmentally conscious residents

and international investors who prioritize

green credentials alongside premium

amenities.

The growing demand for eco-friendly

properties reflects a fundamental change

in market preferences, driven by increased

environmental awareness and the recognition

that sustainable living represents

the future of urban development. Through

AMIS’s strategic focus on sustainability

initiatives, we are strategically positioning

ourselves at the forefront of this transformative

trend, ready to contribute to and

benefit from the complete reimagining

of Dubai’s urban landscape.

Q: Every iconic developer eventually

leaves a signature mark on a city’s

identity. What do you want AMIS’s

signature to be when someone looks

at Dubai’s skyline ten years from now?

AMIS’s signature will be synonymous with

luxury living that embraces sustainability

and cutting-edge design. When people

look at Dubai’s skyline in 10 years, they

will see buildings that combine timeless

elegance with innovative technologies.

We envision our developments as iconic

landmarks that not only provide exclusive

living spaces but also set the benchmark

for smart, sustainable urban living. The

Woodland Residences is a prime example,

integrating Automobili Lamborghini-branded

surfaces and eco-conscious features,

and we intend to continue innovating in a

way that leaves a lasting legacy of luxury

and environmental responsibility.

Q: What’s the one principle you’ll never

compromise on, no matter how big

AMIS becomes?

Excellence is the unwavering foundation

upon which AMIS operates, a principle we


Cover Story

will never compromise. This commitment

to excellence permeates every aspect of

our work, from innovative design and

uncompromising quality to comprehensive

sustainability practices, ensuring we

consistently deliver the highest standard

of living spaces.

Our approach integrates three core

pillars: cutting-edge innovation that pushes

industry boundaries, environmental

responsibility that safeguards our planet’s

future, and personalized luxury that

exceeds individual client expectations.

This holistic methodology ensures that

every project becomes a testament to

our dedication to both our clients and

investors.

As AMIS continues to expand, these

foundational principles will remain constant,

guiding our growth and evolution.

Each development we undertake serves

as more than just a building; it stands as

a symbol of exceptional quality, enduring

value, and our unwavering commitment

to excellence that defines who we are

and what we deliver.

Q: If you had to sum up AMIS’s first

chapter in one word, what would it

be, and why?

Visionary. In AMIS’s first chapter, we have

focused on creating luxury real estate that

combines innovation, sustainability, and

personalization. From launching Woodland

Residences to advancing Woodland

Crest, we have consistently challenged

conventional boundaries and redefined

what luxury living can achieve.

This visionary foundation represents

more than just exceptional properties; it

establishes the blueprint for a transformative

brand. Through our forward-thinking

methodology, we are not simply participating

in Dubai’s real estate market; we are

actively reshaping it, setting new industry

standards that will influence the future of

luxury development for years to come.

Q: Finally, on a personal level, what

keeps you motivated to keep pushing

boundaries in a market that’s already

world-class?

My motivation stems from a profound

desire to leave an enduring legacy on

Dubai’s already exceptional real estate

landscape. While this market has achieved

world-class status, I see tremendous opportunity

to elevate it even further through

transformative luxury developments that

transcend traditional boundaries.

What drives me daily is the privilege

of creating homes that do more than

provide shelter; they enhance lives, pioneer

sustainable practices, and showcase

cutting-edge design and technology.

Each project represents a chance to redefine

what luxury living means in the

21st century. Dubai’s excellence doesn’t

intimidate me; it inspires me. Through

visionary leadership and an unwavering

commitment to innovation, AMIS has the

potential not only to participate in this

market but also to shape its evolution

actively. I’m motivated by the knowledge

that our work today will establish the

foundation for tomorrow’s real estate

standards, creating a lasting impact that

extends far beyond individual developments

to influence the entire industry’s

future trajectory.



Cover Story

By The Numbers


AED 425M

SALES VOLUME

WOODLAND RESIDENCES

AED 655M

TOTAL VALUE OF ACTIVE

PROJECTS

AED 5B

PARTNERSHIP WITH FIRST

APAC FUND VCC


Investment


Expats in the UAE are embracing digital tools and disciplined strategies to manage savings

SIPs, Smart

Saving &

Financial Literacy

for Expats

Empowering UAE Expats to Build Financial

Security through Structured Investing, Smart

Saving, and Informed Choices

The UAE continues to attract a large expatriate

population seeking financial growth,

career advancement and a high standard

of living. However, managing finances in a

fast-paced, consumption-driven economy

presents significant challenges. With no

such government-backed pension scheme

for foreign workers and a rising cost of

living, expats must take personal responsibility

for securing their financial future.

Building wealth through disciplined saving,

structured investment strategies and

financial literacy is no longer optional but

essential. From understanding SIP-style

investing to using digital saving tools and

navigating remittances wisely, expats have

multiple avenues to ensure stability, security

and long-term success in the UAE.


The UAE continues to be one of

the most attractive destinations

for expatriates due to its tax-free

salaries, diverse career opportunities

and high quality of life. However, many

expats find themselves underprepared

when it comes to long-term financial

planning, especially as they navigate

a landscape that lacks the pension

structures and welfare nets present in

their home countries. For those aiming

to build a secure financial future in

the UAE, adopting systematic investment

habits, cultivating smart saving

The UAE’s commitment

to financial inclusion

is evident by its focus

on enhancing financial

literacy and promoting

better money management

practices across all

segments of society.”

H.E. Younis Haji Al Khoori, Undersecretary

of the UAE Ministry of Finance

behaviour and improving financial

literacy are essential steps.

The Growing Relevance of Systematic

and Automated Investments

Systematic Investment Plans, commonly

known as SIPs, are well known

among Indian investors as a disciplined

way to invest in mutual funds through

small, regular contributions. While the

SIP concept is traditionally associated

with India, the core philosophy of

structured, consistent investing is

relevant and applicable to expatriates

in the UAE. Although direct access to

Indian mutual funds may not be feasible

for all residents, similar results can be

achieved through recurring investments

in global mutual funds, exchange-traded

funds (ETFs), or savings plans offered

by UAE-based financial institutions.

For instance, National Bonds’ Second

Salary programme allows individuals

to contribute monthly savings over

three to ten years and then receive

monthly income for a fixed term. This

is ideal for expats who want to build a

predictable secondary income stream

while benefiting from the security and

flexibility of a Sharia-compliant plan.

For tech-savvy professionals, platforms

such as Sarwa and StashAway

offer a modern alternative to SIPs by

providing automated investment in

diversified global portfolios. These

platforms are regulated by the Dubai

Financial Services Authority or the Abu

Dhabi Global Market and offer lowcost

access to passive funds. Monthly

auto-debits from a UAE bank account

allow users to emulate the SIP model,

promoting consistent investment

without the emotional stress of market

timing. These tools are particularly beneficial

for younger expats or first-time

investors seeking low-maintenance,

long-term solutions to build wealth.

Overcoming Cultural and Practical

Challenges to Saving

Despite the opportunities available,

many expats face challenges in developing

a saving culture due to high

living expenses, a consumer-driven

environment and a lack of structured

financial education. A large proportion

of residents admit to saving less than

they intend to, with many struggling

to set aside even a small portion of

their salary regularly. As the cost of

living rises, particularly in sectors like

housing, transportation and private

education, the urgency of adopting

smart saving habits has never been

greater. Establishing a clear budget and

adhering to consistent saving rules is

crucial in this context. While various

financial theories suggest specific

saving-to-spending ratios, the most

important element is consistency. Those

who prioritise saving before spending,

rather than the reverse, are more likely

to build a financial cushion over time.

Automation plays a key role in building

this consistency. Several UAE banks

and fintech apps offer auto-save features

that allow users to set up recurring

transfers from their salary account

into separate savings or investment

accounts. This ‘pay-yourself-first’ model

ensures that saving is prioritised over

discretionary spending. Moreover, some

digital platforms round up purchases

to the nearest dirham and divert the

change to a savings pot, gradually

helping users build an emergency

fund without conscious effort. This is

particularly useful for residents who

may not have large disposable incomes

but want to begin cultivating a habit

of saving.

Towards a Future of Financial

Literacy and Retirement Readiness

Emergency savings are a vital element

of financial stability, especially for

expats whose residency status is often

tied to employment. A sudden job

loss, illness or family emergency can

pose severe financial stress if adequate

buffers are not in place. Experts recommend

maintaining at least three to

six months’ worth of living expenses

in liquid savings. UAE-based fixed

deposits, high-yield savings accounts

and short-term Sukuks offer viable

options for capital preservation while

offering modest returns. While gratuity

payments are guaranteed by law for

employees, relying solely on end-ofservice

benefits is insufficient given

the uncertainties of the job market

and the rising cost of basic services.

Expats in the UAE must take a proactive

approach to managing their

finances, given the absence of pension

schemes and rising living costs. Embracing

structured investing, adopting

smart saving habits, and enhancing

financial literacy are essential for

long-term stability. With the right tools

such as workshops, webinars and free

resources offered by regulated financial

institutions, individuals can overcome

common financial pitfalls and build a

secure future. The UAE offers a conducive

environment for disciplined financial

planning, but success ultimately

depends on consistency, awareness,

and informed decision-making.


Funding & Investment News

UAE Tech Funding

Surges 133% in H1

2025

Tracxn has released its UAE Tech

H1 2025 Report, providing a detailed

overview of the country’s

technology funding landscape during

the first half of the year. The report

highlights a strong rebound in investment

activity compared to H2 2024, although

overall funding remains below the levels

recorded in H1 2024. Late-stage funding

was the main driver of this recovery,

with notable performances across

enterprise applications, fintech, and

retail sectors. Total funding in H1 2025

reached US$1.0 billion, marking a 133%

increase from the US$438 million raised

in H2 2024. However, this represents

a 43% decline compared to the US$1.8

billion recorded in H1 2024. Despite

the year-on-year drop, the half-yearly

positions the UAE as one of the most

active tech ecosystems in the MENA

region during this period. Seed-stage

funding fell sharply to US$32.7 million,

down 74% from US$125 million in H2

2024 and 71% from US$111 million in

H1 2024.

OPEC Forecasts $10.6T

Oil Sector Investment by

2040

Investments required in the oil sector

by 2040 are expected to total USD

10.6 trillion, according to a new

report by OPEC. In the latest edition of

its annual publication, the 2025 World

Oil Outlook (WOO), OPEC Secretary

General Haitham Al-Ghais noted that

the sector would need around USD

18.2 trillion in investments through

to 2050 to maintain market stability

and satisfy the energy needs of both

developing and advanced economies.

He underscored the need to reduce

emissions and intensify efforts toward

adopting low-carbon solutions. Al-Ghais

highlighted the growing focus on carbon

capture and storage technologies

within the framework of a circular

economy strategy. He stressed that

achieving both energy security and

climate goals requires balanced policies

that incorporate diverse energy

sources and technologies.

UAE AI Startups Attract Investors Amid Global

Buzz and Government Support

UAE artificial intelligence startups

have emerged as the preferred

investment targets for venture

capitalists and private equity players,

driven by a combination of global AI

momentum and robust local support.

The UAE’s well-developed economic

infrastructure, government-friendly

policies, and openness to global

founders have made it a hotbed for AI

innovation. Growth-stage companies

in fintech and health tech are also attracting

significant capital, but AI-led

companies lead the trend. Regional and

international investors are increasingly

drawn by the scalability of the UAE

market and its strong spending power.

According to Pankaj Gupta of Gulf

Islamic Investments, there has been a

noticeable rise in funding interest for

startups offering AI-powered solutions

to address both current and future

challenges in the market.

Pakistan’s MedIQ Secures $6M to Expand Digital

Healthcare Across GCC

MedIQ, a Pakistan-based healthcare

tech startup founded by

Dr. Saira Siddique, has secured

$6 million in Series A funding led by

Qatar’s Rasmal Ventures and Saudi

Arabia’s Joa Capital, with participation

from existing investors. The oversubscribed

round reflects strong investor

confidence in MedIQ’s growth and technology.

Having entered Saudi Arabia in

2023, where the platform served over

10 million users and became EBIT-

DA-positive, MedIQ plans to use the

funding to expand into Qatar and other

GCC countries. Its platform provides a

hybrid healthcare ecosystem, including

telehealth, e-pharmacy, AI-powered

facility digitisation, and insurance

operations automation, aiming to be

the central hub for healthcare services

in the MENA region. This move serves

as a holistic solution to healthcare.

Saudi Foodtech Startup Calo Secures $39M For

Global Expansion Plans

Calo, a Saudi Arabia-based foodtech

company specialising in

personalised meal subscription

services, has raised $39 million in

a Series B extension round led by

AlJazira Capital, bringing its total

Series B funding to $64 million. The

oversubscribed round also saw participation

from existing investors such

as Nuwa Capital, STV, Al Faisaliah

Group, and Khwarizmi Ventures, along

with new investor Oraseya Capital.

The fresh funding will support Calo’s

global growth strategy, including the

integration of its recent UK acquisitions,

Fresh Fitness Food and Detox

Kitchen. The company will also accelerate

the development of AI-powered

personalisation features, including its

Calo Black chatbot chef. With over

10 million meals delivered across the

GCC in 2024 and strong year-on-year

growth, Calo is now expanding operations

in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and

the UK.


DMDC Enters Property Investment Sector in Dubai

DMDC, a rapidly expanding interior

design and construction

firm in the region, has launched

its latest venture, DMDC Estates, a

dedicated property investment and

renovation division aimed at redefining

Dubai’s luxury real estate market.

Announced at an exclusive private

press conference, the expansion marks

DMDC’s largest investment since its

inception. The company has allocated

AED 70 million to initiate a portfolio

of premium residential projects, with

key developments already progressing

in Arabian Ranches, Jumeirah Golf

Estates, and Emerald Hills. A further

AED 30 million investment is planned

for the second half of the year, bringing

the total commitment for 2025 to AED

100 million. This move is strengthening

the company’s footprint in Dubai’s

competitive property market.

Abu Dhabi Investment Authority Acquires 1.17%

Anchor Stake in India’s NSDL IPO

The Abu Dhabi Investment Authority

(ADIA), the UAE’s largest

sovereign wealth fund, has expanded

its India portfolio by acquiring

a 1.17% stake in the National Securities

Depository Limited (NSDL), the country’s

oldest central depository. ADIA

has emerged as an anchor investor in

NSDL’s INR 40.12 billion ($460 million)

IPO, which opened for subscription

today. According to a BSE disclosure,

the fund purchased 174,996 equity

shares at INR 800 per share, totalling

INR 140 million. The Life Insurance

Corporation of India secured the largest

anchor allotment with an 11.99% stake,

followed by Smallcap World Fund at

8.33%. With $1.11 trillion in assets under

management, ADIA continues its active

investment streak, recently acquiring

a 3% stake in Indian medical devices

firm Micro Life Sciences (Meril) for

$200 million.

UAE Millionaires Allocate Nearly 30% of Portfolios

to Sustainable Investments

Wealthy investors in the UAE

are increasingly prioritising

sustainable investments, reflecting

the nation’s climate ambitions

and long-term economic goals,

according to Standard Chartered.

High-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) in

the country, with assets under management

exceeding $1 million, currently

allocate about 27% of their portfolios

to sustainable investments, marking

the highest proportion among eight

global markets surveyed by the bank.

Nearly 87% of UAE investors also expressed

interest in transition investing,

aligning with the global average. The

survey, which covered HNWIs in the

UAE, Hong Kong, Mainland China,

India, South Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia

and Singapore, highlights a clear trend

towards low-carbon and future-focused

strategies. These investment

behaviours align with the UAE’s Net

Zero 2050 vision, reflecting a growing

commitment to climate-conscious

portfolios and sustainable economic

growth.

Ardian Launches Fund

Exclusively for Professional

Investors

Ardian, a private investment firm

with $180 billion in assets under

management and supervision

across its private equity, real assets and

private credit platforms, has announced

the launch of an evergreen fund - SI-

CAV RAIF - domiciled in Luxembourg,

exclusively available for professional

investors globally. The Fund will seek

to leverage a highly diversified, global

portfolio of private assets managed by

GPs across sectors, geographies, and

company sizes, aiming to generate

long-term value whilst mitigating risk

and J-Curve effects. Through Ardian

Access, investors now have flexible

access to the investment group’s secondaries,

primaries and direct co-investment

platforms, which collectively

manage close to $110 billion in assets

under management. Ardian Access, is

a differentiated solution for investors

looking to access private markets and

diversify their existing exposure.


Promotion

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In past years, luxury often demanded a choice between performance or poise, and beauty or dependability.

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They ensure that your expectations are met and exceeded—whether you’re selecting your first supercar or expanding your

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Why Choose the Elite Cars?

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Step into a showroom where the possibilities are as elevated

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brands, every visit invites you to explore the full spectrum of

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Whether you are drawn to refined power, avant-garde design,

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For The Elite Cars, luxury isn’t only in the drive, it’s the entire

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The Elite Cars Standard

At The Elite Cars, luxury extends far beyond the vehicle itself. It

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Real Estate


Golden Visas Drive International Property Demand Opening Doors to New Markets and Prosperity.

Residency by

Investment: How Golden

Visas Are Reshaping the

Property Market

Transforming Real Estate Landscapes, Golden

Visas Attract Global Capital Unlocking Growth,

Innovation, and Opportunity Across Borders.

The UAE’s Golden Visa programme has

fundamentally transformed Dubai’s property

landscape since its introduction in

2019, evolving from a simple residency

scheme into a powerful economic catalyst.

With 158,000 Golden Visas issued in

Dubai alone during 2023 nearly doubling

the previous year’s figures the programme

has created unprecedented demand in the

emirate’s premium property sector. The

initiative has not only attracted global

investment but reshaped buyer behaviour,

market dynamics, and development patterns

across Dubai’s real estate market,

establishing new benchmarks for luxury

property transactions and long-term residential

investment strategies.


The Golden Visa programme has

undergone significant refinements

to maximise its impact

on Dubai’s property market. Originally

requiring a minimum property investment

of AED 5 million, the threshold

was strategically reduced to AED 2

million in 2022, dramatically expanding

the eligible investor pool. The most

transformative change came in 2024

when the UAE eliminated the mandatory

AED 1 million down payment requirement,

allowing mortgaged properties

to qualify for Golden Visa eligibility.

Current property investors can secure

a 10-year renewable Golden Visa

by owning real estate worth at least

AED 2 million, with the flexibility to

combine multiple properties to meet

this threshold. The programme now accepts

off-plan developments, completed

residential properties, and commercial

assets, provided they are located

within Dubai’s designated freehold

zones. This enhanced accessibility has

democratised luxury property investment,

enabling a broader spectrum of

international buyers to participate in

Dubai’s premium real estate market.

The programme’s family-friendly

provisions allow Golden Visa holders

to sponsor spouses, children of any age,

parents, and domestic staff, creating

a comprehensive residency solution

for affluent international families. Additionally,

holders enjoy unrestricted

travel privileges, with no mandatory

minimum residency periods, making

Dubai an attractive base for global

professionals and entrepreneurs.

Market Impact: Transforming Property

Demand and Pricing Dynamics

The Golden Visa programme has created

distinct market patterns that have

reshaped Dubai’s property ecosystem.

Properties valued between AED 1-3

million now command 48.5% of market

share, reflecting the programme’s influence

on buyer preferences. Transactions

above AED 2 million experienced a

remarkable 30% year-on-year increase

in the first half of 2024, demonstrating

sustained investor confidence in Golden

Visa-eligible properties.

Dubai’s property market achieved

record-breaking performance in the

first half of 2025, with total transactions

reaching AED 431 billion across

125,538 deals representing a 25% increase

in value and 26% increase in

volume compared to the same period

in 2024. Foreign investors accounted

for over 53% of total transaction value,

with Golden Visa eligibility serving

as a primary driver for international

property acquisition.

The luxury segment has experienced

particularly pronounced growth, with

properties priced between AED 1.5-2

million showing the fastest growth

rate of 3.5% market share expansion.

Premium developments such as Palace

Residences in Dubai Hills Estate and

Arlo in Dubai Creek Harbour have

commanded average prices of AED

Golden Visas may be

granted by the UAE

Government on several

grounds, including

but not limited to real

estate investment to the

tune of AED 2 million,

business ownership,

and distinguished

contributions in fields

such as science,

medicine, the arts,

culture, media, and

sport.”

Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship,

Customs and Port Security (ICP) Official

Statement

2,421 and AED 2,601 per square foot

respectively, targeting Golden Visa-eligible

investment thresholds.

This demand surge has created a

“Golden Visa Premium” effect, where

properties meeting the AED 2 million

threshold experience enhanced capital

appreciation and rental yields compared

to lower-value assets. The programme

has effectively established a new price

floor for premium residential developments,

encouraging developers to focus

on projects that align with Golden Visa

requirements.

Developer Response and Market

Positioning

Dubai’s property developers have strategically

repositioned their offerings to

capitalise on Golden Visa demand. Many

now market developments explicitly

as “Golden Visa eligible,” with some

offering complimentary visa processing

services for qualifying purchases.

This marketing approach has created

a distinct property category within

Dubai’s real estate market, where

Golden Visa eligibility has become

a key selling proposition alongside

traditional factors such as location

and amenities.

The removal of minimum down

payment requirements has enabled

developers to offer more flexible financing

structures, with some off-plan

projects requiring initial investments

as low as AED 50,000 while still qualifying

for Golden Visa eligibility. This

financing accessibility has expanded

the potential buyer base, attracting

investors who previously could not

meet the substantial upfront capital

requirements.

Luxury developments in prime locations

such as Dubai Marina, Business

Bay, Downtown Dubai, and Palm Jumeirah

have experienced heightened

demand, with properties in these areas

commanding premium valuations due

to their Golden Visa eligibility combined

with prestigious addresses. The

programme has also stimulated development

in emerging areas, as investors

seek value opportunities within Golden

Visa-qualifying price ranges.

The Golden Visa programme has

restructured Dubai’s property market,

creating new investment patterns,

pricing dynamics, and development

strategies, offering investors residency

benefits and compelling returns.


Real Estate News

UAE Safety Rankings Fuel Real Estate Growth

The UAE’s top global ranking for

safety has created a noticeable

“safety premium” in its real estate

market. With the country securing first

place in Numbeo’s 2025 Safety Index

and consistently ranking high in other

global safety reports, international

investors are increasingly drawn to

its residential property sector. This

perception of security is enhancing

buyer confidence, particularly among

families, expatriates, and high-net-worth

individuals. As a result, the UAE’s residential

real estate deals are forecast to

grow by 2.66% annually through 2029.

Experts say that beyond architectural

appeal and investment returns, personal

safety is now a central factor

in property decisions. The country’s

consistent focus on law enforcement,

smart surveillance, and political stability

not only supports economic growth but

also positions the UAE as one of the

most desirable and secure real estate

destinations worldwide.

UAE Property Deals

Set for Steady Growth

Dubai Off‐Plan Apartment Sales Surge 43% in

Q2 2025

Residential real estate transactions

in the UAE are projected ket skyrocketed in the second nificant market shares. This sustained

Dubai’s off‐plan apartment mar-

Bay which collectively captured sig-

to grow at an annual rate of quarter of 2025, with a 43 percent growth highlights continued enthusiasm

2.66 percent from 2025 through 2029,

driven by rising demand, favourable

economic conditions, and continued

government support. According to

increase in sales volumes compared to

the same period in 2024. The off‐plan

segment accounted for over 70 percent

of residential transactions as investor

for new developments and flexible

payment schemes among both local

and international buyers in Dubai’s

vibrant real estate sector.

recent data, the UAE’s property market

confidence remained robust. In total,

is benefiting from strong investor roughly 35,700 off‐plan units were sold

confidence, improved infrastructure, across April, May and June, marking

and an increasing focus on sustainable, year‐on‐year rises of approximately

mixed-use developments. Population 60 percent in both April and June. The

growth, urban expansion, and digitalisation

average price per square foot climbed

in property services are further steadily to about AED 1,667 by June,

contributing to the sector’s resilience. evidencing healthy demand. Top-performing

Experts believe this positive outlook

areas included Jumeirah Village

reflects the market’s evolution into a Circle, Damac Island City and Business

more stable and long-term investment

destination. Developers are aligning

Imtiaz Developments Delivers Pearl House in

their offerings with modern lifestyle

preferences, while regulatory reforms JVC Four Months Ahead of Schedule

enhance transparency and security

for buyers. Imtiaz Developments has handed scheduled for delivery later in 2025

over its Pearl House residential and early 2026 respectively.

tower in Jumeirah Village Circle

four months earlier than planned,

reaffirming its reputation for timely

execution. This marks the developer’s

fourth completed project in JVC and

comes after Westwood Grande I and II

were delivered on time as well. Valued

at AED 155 million, Pearl House comprises

190 fully furnished studio and

one-bedroom apartments in a 16-storey

building tailored for both investors

and end users. The early completion

reflects Imtiaz’s focus on design innovation,

smart home integration, and

operational efficiency. With over 40

active projects and AED 10 billion in

recorded sales, Imtiaz continues to set

a benchmark for quality and reliability

in Dubai’s competitive property market.

Pearl House 2 and Pearl House 3 are


Dubai Commercial Property Sales Hit AED 31B, Up 50% in Q2 2025

Dubai’s commercial real estate

market experienced a striking

surge in the second quarter of

2025, with total sales reaching AED 31

billion, a 50 percent rise from Q2 2024.

Strong demand was seen in Grade A

office spaces, premium warehouses,

and off‐plan commercial schemes.

Office sales alone soared 93 percent

year‐on‐year to AED 2.62 billion, supported

by growing investor interest and

business expansion in key districts like

Business Bay, Jumeirah Lake Towers,

Motor City and Barsha Heights. At the

same time, average warehouse prices

more than doubled, reaching AED 22.2 million,

highlighting robust momentum in

logistics and industrial sectors .Leasing

activity also accelerated, with average

office leasing value nearly doubling at

AED 480,768, reflecting strong occupier

demand across Dubai’s commercial

real estate landscape.

Dubai Brokers Earned

AED 3.23 Billion Commissions

in H1 2025

Real estate brokers in Dubai

generated commissions of

AED 3.23 billion during the

first half of 2025, nearly doubling from

AED 1.62 billion in H1 2024. These

earnings stemmed from 42,181 completed

property transactions, reflecting

a 99 percent increase in broker income

on strong transaction volumes across

the emirate. The number of registered

brokers has also grown significantly,

reaching 29,577, including 6,714 new

entrants, with female agents closing

13,424 deals and earning AED 1.43 billion

in commissions alone. This

performance underscores the broker

community’s pivotal role in sustaining

investor confidence and facilitating

transparency in Dubai’s booming real

estate ecosystem.

London Gate Partners With OCTA Properties to

Launch Three New Projects

London Gate has partnered with

OCTA Properties to launch three

residential developments across

Dubai, aimed at redefining luxury and

lifestyle. A standout project includes

Franck Muller-branded residences

in Dubai Maritime City, merging

Swiss craftsmanship with sophisticated

architecture. The portfolio

also features studio to two-bedroom

apartments in Dubai South, targeting

young professionals and investors

with affordable, quality housing.

Dubai’s real estate market surged

in Q2 2025, recording over 50,000

transactions worth AED 72.8

billion, a 41% rise compared to the same

period last year. The off-plan sector led

sales, accounting for nearly 70% of deals,

reflecting strong investor confidence.

Villas experienced the highest price

growth, rising 16% year-on-year, while

apartments showed steady gains. The

Additionally, a low-rise residential

building in Jumeirah Village Circle

offers community-oriented living with

modern amenities and green spaces.

This partnership exemplifies innovation

and diverse offerings tailored to

Dubai’s evolving property market. The

projects emphasize design excellence

and strategic locations, catering to

a wide spectrum of buyers seeking

premium waterfront and urban homes

in one of the world’s fastest-growing

real estate hubs.

Dubai Real Estate Records Over 50,000 Property

Sales Worth AED 72.8B

average price per square foot climbed

to AED 1,809, exceeding the 2014 peak

by 21.6%. Analysts from Knight Frank

predict continued growth, expecting an

8% increase in the mainstream market and

5% in the prime segment through the rest

of 2025. This robust activity highlights

Dubai’s enduring appeal as a dynamic

property hub attracting global investors

amid economic diversification efforts.


SME


Dynamic Skyline Silhouettes Merge with Interconnected Startup Icons, Symbolizing Expat-led Entrepreneurial Synergy.

Rise of the Expat

Founder: The

Businesses Powering

UAE’s SME Ecosystem

Empowering Global Visionaries, Expat Founders

Drive the UAE’s SME Revolution through

Innovation, Collaboration, and Sustainable

Growth.


The United Arab Emirates’ rapid economic

diversification owes much to expatriate

entrepreneurs whose ventures

have catalyzed growth across small and

medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Today,

SMEs constitute over 94 percent of all

companies in the UAE and employ 86

percent of the private workforce. Beyond

raw numbers, expat-founded platforms

and service providers have created the

infrastructure, digital tools, and networks

essential for a modern SME landscape

transforming the UAE into one of the

world’s most dynamic hubs for entrepreneurs.

Dubizzle, co-founded by J.C. Butler

and Sim Whatley, pioneered

online classifieds in the Middle

East. Starting as a peer-to-peer marketplace

for goods and real-estate listings,

Dubizzle rapidly scaled into the region’s

largest classifieds platform, facilitating

millions of transactions annually. Its

success demonstrated the viability of

digital marketplaces in the Gulf and

inspired a wave of similar platforms.

Souqalmal.com (2012), founded by

Ambareen Musa, addressed financial

comparison as a major pain point

for consumers and SMEs alike. By

enabling side-by-side comparisons of

over 3,200 banking, loan, and insurance

products, Souqalmal democratized access

to financial services. Acquired by

SHUAA Capital in 2022, the platform’s

The small and medium

enterprises sector

represents one of the

important priorities in the

sustainable economic

development strategies

adopted by the United

Arab Emirates.”

Dr. Ahmed Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of

State for Entrepreneurship and SMEs

transformation into Yabi, an interactive

financial education hub continues to

empower business owners with budgeting,

lending, and investment tools.

Witwork (co-founded by Cynthia

Helena Rif) introduced a flexible coworking

solution by leveraging underutilized

spaces restaurants, lounges,

and pop-up venues across Dubai and

Abu Dhabi. This asset-light model reduced

overheads for freelancers and

startups, fostering community building

and knowledge sharing among SMEs.

Tech-Driven Growth: Mobility,

Logistics, and Beyond

Careem, launched in 2012 by expat

founders Mudassir Sheikha and Magnus

Olsson, evolved from a corporate

car-booking service into a “super-app”

covering ride-hailing, delivery, and digital

payments across 70 cities. Careem’s

success culminated in a $3.1 billion

acquisition by Uber, underscoring the

region’s capacity to birth global tech

unicorns. Its success has created logistics

and digital-payment frameworks

that countless smaller businesses now

rely upon for last-mile delivery and

e-commerce operations.

Xische & Co., founded by Danish

Farhan, merged management consulting

with creative branding and technology

services. By offering integrated solutions

from brand strategy to digital

marketing Xische enabled hundreds

of SMEs to launch new products and

enter international markets, reinforcing

the UAE’s reputation for world-class

business services.

Government Initiatives and Expat-Led

Collaboration

The UAE’s federal and emirate-level

authorities have complemented expat

entrepreneurial activity with robust

support; Dubai SME (part of DET)

facilitated 1,986 new enterprises in H1

2024 a 57 percent increase year-on-year

and has supported over 20,000 SMEs

since its inception. Abu Dhabi’s SME

Hub consolidates mentorship, funding,

and policy guidance, contributing to

98 percent of the emirate’s businesses,

46 percent of its workforce, and

42.8 percent of non-oil GDP. National

programs such as Operation 300 Billion

and Vision 2031 aim to raise SME

contributions to AED 300 billion by

2031, with dedicated funding windows

exceeding AED 30 billion.

Expat founders often partner with

these public initiatives serving as mentors,

investors, or program sponsors

and thereby reinforce an ecosystem

that nurtures both local and foreign

entrepreneurs.

Economic Impact and Future

Outlook

As of mid-2024, the UAE hosts over

550,000 SMEs, accounting for 64 percent

of the non-oil GDP. SMEs’ sheer

scale: 94 percent of all businesses, 86

percent of private-sector employment,

and upwards of 53 percent of GDP positions

them as indispensable to national

growth. Expat-led ventures have been

pivotal in: Digitizing traditional sectors

(e.g., real estate, finance), Building

shared infrastructure (e.g., coworking,

logistics), and Democratizing access

to capital and expertise

Going forward, further integration

of fintech, AI, and blockchain by expat

entrepreneurs will likely drive the next

wave of SME innovation. Initiatives

like Hub71+ AI in Abu Dhabi and the

UAE AI Strategy 2031 signal a sustained

commitment to technology-enabled

entrepreneurship. With projections

estimating 1 million SMEs by 2030, expat

founders will continue to shape the

UAE’s SME ecosystem bridging global

best practices with local opportunities.

The rise of the expat founder in

the UAE has not only fueled the SME

sector’s expansion but also anchored

the nation’s vision of a diversified,

knowledge-based economy. As these

entrepreneurs scale their ventures and

collaborate with public institutions,

they ensure that SMEs remain the

bedrock of sustainable growth and

innovation in the Emirates.

Expatriate founders have been instrumental

in building the platforms,

services, and support networks that

underpin the UAE’s thriving SME

ecosystem. By introducing digital

marketplaces, financial-comparison

tools, flexible workspaces, and on-demand

logistics, these entrepreneurs

have lowered barriers for small and

medium businesses to start, grow,

and compete globally. With continued

government backing and technological

advancements, the synergy between

expat innovation and UAE policy will

sustain the small and medium sized

business-driven diversification for

years to come.


Business News

AD Ports, Emirates Food Industries Sign 50-Year Khalifa Port Deal

AD Ports Group has entered into

a 50-year land lease agreement

with Emirates Food Industries

Group (EFIG), a subsidiary of National

Holding, to develop a state-of-the-art

grain storage and processing complex

at Khalifa Port’s South Quay. The

long-term partnership begins with

the construction of advanced silos

designed to significantly expand the

UAE’s grain storage capabilities. This

infrastructure will reinforce Khalifa

Port’s strategic position as a leading

logistics and trade hub, enhancing

national food resilience and supporting

the UAE’s ongoing food security agenda.

Subsequent phases of the project will

involve the development of a sophisticated

grain processing plant. Upon

completion, the AED 2 billion project

will form a fully integrated industrial

complex with advanced facilities for

storing and processing multiple grain

varieties.

ADNIC Launches Life

Insurance Cover for

Emiratis Up to Age 95

The Abu Dhabi National Insurance

Company (ADNIC) has introduced

a new life insurance offering that

provides coverage for UAE nationals up

to the age of 95. The initiative, developed

in collaboration with the Sheikh

Zayed Housing Program (SZHP), marks

a significant expansion in insurance

accessibility and support for Emiratis

seeking housing finance later in life.

Under the new scheme, Emiratis aged

up to 70 can now qualify for housing

loans with repayment terms of up to 25

years—made possible by the extended

insurance coverage that runs until the

age of 95. This is a notable shift from

the prevailing market cap of 70 years for

life insurance policies, and it addresses

a key gap for older citizens looking to

access long-term financial services.

CBUAE and Mercury Launch Venture to Enhance

Infrastructure

The Central Bank of the United

Arab Emirates (CBUAE) and Mercury

have officially launched a

strategic joint venture, Unitey Business

Services, as part of efforts to advance

the UAE’s Financial Infrastructure

Transformation (FIT) programme. This

initiative aims to elevate the efficiency,

resilience, and business continuity of

the country’s national financial market

infrastructure. Through this partnership,

CBUAE and Mercury are aligning

The Department of Economic

Development (RAK DED) in Ras

Al Khaimah reported a 14.5%

increase in the total licensed capital of

active business licences during the first

half of 2025. As a result, the figure rose

to AED 10.2 billion, marking a strong

indicator of sustained investment activity

in the emirate. Additionally, the

total number of active licences saw a 6%

increase compared to the same period

in 2024. This growth underscores the

emirate’s improving business environment

and its ability to attract and retain

investors. Among licence categories,

industrial licences led with a 14.3% rise.

This was followed by a 6% growth in

professional licences and a 5% increase

in commercial licences, reflecting

diversified sectoral development.The

total licensed capital of new businesses

strategic goals with technological

expertise to deliver a future-ready

payments ecosystem. Unitey Business

Services is expected to play a central

role in strengthening the UAE’s critical

financial infrastructure, supporting

national sovereignty over key platforms

and systems. The venture will adhere

to the highest global standards while

promoting financial inclusion and

operational excellence.

Ras Al Khaimah Sees Strong Growth in Business

Capital

reached AED 495 million in H1 2025,

up 7.5% from AED 460 million in the

same period last year.


CBD Surpasses $40.84 Billion in Assets with 20 Straight Quarters of Growth

Commercial Bank of Dubai (CBD)

has achieved a major financial

milestone, reporting 20 consecutive

quarters of net profit growth.

For the first half of 2025, the Bank recorded

a net profit before tax of AED

1.862 billion, marking a 16.7% increase

compared to the same period last year.

Alongside sustained profitability, CBD’s

total assets exceeded AED 150 billion

for the first time, equivalent to over

$40.84 billion. This performance reflects

strong lending activity, rising

customer engagement, and continued

public sector investment. Population

growth and broad-based economic

expansion have also contributed to

the Bank’s momentum. CBD’s ongoing

transformation strategy has delivered

tangible outcomes in the first half of

2025. Notably, the Bank achieved its

highest SME Net Promoter Score in

more than three years.

Titan Acquires 67%

Stake in UAE’s Damas

Jewellery for $283M

Titan Company, a leading Indian

jewellery brand under the Tata

Group, has announced the acquisition

of a 67% stake in UAE-based

Damas Jewellery through its subsidiary

Titan Holdings International FZCO.

The all-cash deal, valued at AED 1,038

million (approximately ₹2,438.56

crore), marks a significant expansion

of Titan’s presence in the GCC jewellery

market. As part of the agreement,

Titan Holdings signed a definitive deal

with Qatar-based Mannai Corporation,

the current majority stakeholder in

Damas LLC. This acquisition includes

the entire jewellery business of Damas,

along with its brand rights across six

GCC countries. The transaction is

expected to close by January 31, 2026,

subject to regulatory approvals in

the respective jurisdictions. Founded

in 1907, Damas operates 146 stores

throughout the GCC, generating AED

1,461 million (approximately ₹3,450.2

crore) in revenue in FY 2024.

Abu Dhabi, Budapest Stock Exchanges Sign Cooperation

Agreement

The Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange

(ADX) and the Budapest Stock

Exchange (BSE) signed a Memorandum

of Understanding (MoU) to launch

a strategic partnership. The agreement

was signed in Budapest during the state

visit of President His Highness Sheikh

Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to Hungary.

The ceremony took place at the BSE

headquarters and was attended by Saud

Hamad Al Shamsi, the UAE Ambassador

to Hungary. This MoU aims to deepen

cooperation between the two capital

Dubai has officially launched the

One Freezone Passport initiative,

a strategic move by the Dubai

Free Zones Council (DFZC) to ease the

process of operating across the emirate’s

multiple free zones. The programme

allows companies to maintain a single

business licence while accessing various

free zone jurisdictions across the city.

According to the Dubai Media Office,

this initiative aims to boost business

efficiency, simplify operations, and attract

international investment. Marking

the programme’s debut, Louis Vuitton

became the first global brand to utilise

the system. The luxury fashion house has

expanded its presence by maintaining its

markets, foster international connectivity,

and promote knowledge-sharing. It also

aligns with both exchanges’ broader

goals of expanding global relationships,

particularly in the Middle East and Central

Eastern Europe. ADX continues to

pursue international linkages as part of

its strategy to build partnerships with

prominent financial institutions worldwide.

Through this partnership, ADX

and BSE will collaborate on a variety

of initiatives.

Dubai Introduces One Passport System for

Freezone Expansion

warehouse operations in Jebel Ali Free

Zone (JAFZA), while establishing a new

corporate office at One Za’abeel within

the Dubai World Trade Centre Free Zone

(DWTC Free Zone). Impressively, the

entire expansion process was completed

in just five days.


iRobot Roomba

iRobot’s latest Roomba models redefine home cleaning

through smart automation and AI-driven efficiency.

Designed for hands-free floor care, these intelligent

robots combine powerful suction, adaptive mapping,

and voice assistant integration, offering a hassle-free

cleaning experience for modern households in every

corner of the globe.

Expected Specs: Precision Cleaning Meets AI Innovation

Design

Round low-profile body

with edge-sweeping brushes

for corner cleaning

Display

No display; Wi-Fi app control

via iRobot Home App

Cleaning System

3-Stage Cleaning with Power-Lifting

Suction and Dual

Multi-Surface Rubber Brushes

Processor

ARM-based quad-core processor

enabling real-time

decision-making

Navigation

iAdapt® 3.0 with vSLAM® for

intelligent room mapping and

path planning

Smart Features

Dirt Detect, Keep Out Zones,

Clean Zones, Smart Mapping,

and Schedule Automation

Dustbin Capacity

400–500ml, with automatic

dirt disposal in select

models

Connectivity

Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz +

5GHz), OTA firmware update

Voice Control

Works with Alexa, Google

Assistant, and Siri Shortcuts

Charging

Automatic docking with

recharge and resume

Battery Life

Up to 120 minutes on a full

charge


AI Cleaning, Mapping &

App Support: What You

Get

Powered by iRobot OS and paired with the iRobot

Home App, Roomba uses advanced mapping technology

to learn your home’s layout, recognise furniture, and

target high-traffic zones. Over time, it gets smarter,

identifying room types and optimising cleaning paths

for greater efficiency.

Some premium models like the Roomba j9+ even

include a Dirt Detective feature that prioritises dirtiest

rooms first, and Clean Base® for self-emptying up

to 60 days. Customisable routines, seasonal cleaning

suggestions, and integration with smart home systems

offer an entirely personalised cleaning experience.

Performance Highlights

iAdapt® 3.0 Mapping - Smart navigation avoids

obstacles and remembers floor layouts

Auto-Empty Dock - Up to 60 days of hands-free

bin emptying

App Control - Remote cleaning and scheduling

via iRobot Home App

No Wet Mopping - Vacuum-only functionality (see

Braava Jet series for mopping)

Pros

Cons

Intelligent mapping and room recognition

with custom zone cleaning

Self-emptying dock reduces maintenance

hassle

Pet hair–friendly rubber brushes avoid

tangling

Adaptive learning improves over time

with updates

Works with Alexa and Google for voice-activated

cleaning

Higher-end models come at a premium price

No mopping integration in Roomba line

Occasional navigation issues in low-light

environments

Loud during operation, especially on carpets

No Camera Privacy Shutter - Models with onboard

cameras rely on software-based

Final Thoughts

The iRobot Roomba series continues to lead the home robotics segment by delivering a blend of smart automation and robust

cleaning power. Whether you’re managing pet hair, daily dust, or just want a tech-savvy companion to clean your floors, Roomba

offers a range of models for every need and budget. For homes looking to upgrade their smart ecosystem with efficient floor

care, Roomba is a reliable and intelligent choice.


Cryptocurrency


UAE becomes the region’s top destination for crypto investments and blockchain innovation

UAE Emerges as

Middle East’s

Crypto Hub with

$34 Billion Surge

Progressive Regulation and Zero Tax Policies

Fuel UAE’s Dominance In Digital Asset

Investment

The United Arab Emirates is rapidly

establishing itself as the Middle East’s

foremost hub for cryptocurrency activity,

recording a remarkable USD 34 billion in

crypto transactions over the past year, a

42% year-on-year increase. This growth

reflects a diversified market driven by

retail users, institutional investors, and

decentralised finance (DeFi) platforms.

The country’s ascent is underpinned by

forward-looking regulations, zero-tax incentives,

and robust infrastructure across

free zones, including DMCC, RAK DAO,

and ADGM. With strategic support from

national entities such as VARA and the

Central Bank, the UAE is embracing digital

assets and integrating its long-term

economic vision, setting a benchmark for

responsible crypto adoption worldwide.


The United Arab Emirates has

rapidly positioned itself as the

Middle East’s most progressive

destination for digital asset activity,

recording USD 34 billion in cryptocurrency

transactions over the past year.

According to Chainalysis, this places

the UAE third in the region and 16th

globally, reflecting a remarkable 42%

year-on-year growth. This rise is the

result of a deliberate and strategic

national push towards creating an

innovation-friendly, regulatory-safe,

and tax-efficient environment for digital

assets. Clear regulatory frameworks,

tax incentives, and cross-sectoral government

collaboration have enabled

the country to build one of the most

robust crypto ecosystems globally.

Building a Regulated and Trusted

Digital Asset Ecosystem

Institutions such as Dubai’s Virtual

Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA)

and Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)

have set up differentiated regulatory

systems to cater to various types of

digital asset activities. VARA’s seven-tier

licensing regime, tailored to different

risk categories, offers clarity to investors

and businesses. ADGM, meanwhile,

focuses on institutional-grade

custody and trading infrastructure. The

overall approach not only encourages

domestic growth but also makes the

UAE a highly attractive jurisdiction

for international crypto firms seeking

regulatory certainty and operational

scalability. Free zones such as DMCC

Crypto Centre, RAK DAO, and Dubai

Silicon Oasis are also instrumental in

incubating innovation and talent.

The UAE’s strategic alignment of

digital infrastructure, economic policy,

and investor-friendly regulation has

triggered a notable influx of global talent

and venture capital. More than 1,800

blockchain and Web3 companies now

operate in the UAE, drawn by favourable

visa programmes, no personal or

capital gains taxes, and direct access to

regional markets. Major players from

Hong Kong, Singapore, Europe, and

the United States are setting up base,

diversifying the local tech landscape

and cementing the UAE’s reputation as

a safe, innovation-first environment.

This momentum is reinforced by

increasing participation from both

retail and institutional investors.

Chainalysis data suggests that the

average transaction size in the UAE

is significantly higher than the global

norm, indicating deep engagement

from high-net-worth individuals and

institutional actors. Simultaneously,

the UAE’s traditional banking sector is

exploring opportunities in tokenisation,

stablecoins, and blockchain-based

financial services. The Central Bank’s

Digital Dirham initiative and various

fintech sandbox environments underscore

the nation’s intent to integrate

digital assets within a broader financial

reform strategy.

The UAE is committed

to creating a thriving

digital economy built on

transparency, innovation,

and investor trust.”

H.E. Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of

State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital

Economy, and Remote Work Applications

The broader Middle East is also seeing

increased interest in crypto, with the

region clocking USD 566 billion in digital

asset transactions. Countries such as

Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Turkey are

gradually introducing crypto frameworks,

but the UAE remains distinct

in its ability to combine regulation,

innovation, and global connectivity.

Driving Institutional Confidence

and Global Market Participation

While embracing innovation, the

UAE has not ignored the potential

risks of unregulated crypto adoption.

Authorities have implemented robust

Know-Your-Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money

Laundering (AML) measures,

along with investor protection initiatives.

The Securities and Commodities

Authority (SCA) works closely with

the central bank, law enforcement,

and global agencies to ensure that the

financial ecosystem remains secure and

transparent. Educational programmes

and partnerships with universities are

also underway to build crypto literacy

and mitigate misuse.

The UAE’s crypto market stands out

not just for its size, but for the balanced

composition of transaction activity

across investor categories. According

to Chainalysis, small retail transactions

under USD 1,000 have grown

over 80% year-on-year, while mid-tier

transactions between USD 1,000 and

USD 10,000 have risen by over 75%.

At the same time, institutional trades

that exceed USD 1 million continue to

dominate overall transaction volume,

accounting for nearly 67% of total

activity. This reflects an increasing

confidence from professional investors

in the UAE’s digital asset ecosystem.

From Speculation to Real-World

Blockchain Applications

One of the key drivers of this institutional

confidence is the robust infrastructure

for decentralised finance (DeFi). More

than 32% of crypto activity in the UAE

now flows through DeFi platforms,

surpassing the global average of 27.8%.

Decentralised exchanges (DEXs) in

particular have witnessed an 87%

surge in transaction value, jumping

from USD 6 billion to USD 11.3 billion

in just one year. The demand for stablecoins,

which now account for over

half (51.3%) of transaction volume,

further reinforces the trend towards

asset-backed, fiat-referenced instruments

in a volatile macroeconomic

environment.

In parallel, blockchain-based real-world

applications such as digital

identity, smart contracts, and tokenised

land registries are beginning to take

hold. This evolving usage landscape

signals a transition from speculative

trading towards practical, value-driven

blockchain deployment.The success

of the UAE’s crypto economy is underpinned

by its layered and harmonised

regulatory environment setting a

precedent for the rest of the region.


Sports News

Dubai Mallathon Launches to Promote Indoor Summer Fitness

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin

Rashid Al Maktoum has introduced

the Dubai Mallathon, a free fitness

initiative taking place from August 1

to 31, 2025. The programme will transform

seven of the city’s busiest malls

into indoor fitness hubs, opening early

from 7am to 10am. It features walking

and running tracks, hydration stations,

children’s play zones, guided warm-up

sessions, and digital fitness tracking.

Open to all residents, registration is

available online, with digital passes

issued upon sign-up. The Mallathon

aligns with the city’s wider health and

wellbeing goals under the Social Agenda

33 and Quality of Life Strategy 33.

Backed by key government bodies, the

event also includes participation from

mall retailers and restaurants, which

will offer health-focused discounts and

promotions throughout the month to

support sustainable lifestyle changes.

Spartan Middle East Series

Begins at Etihad Arena

Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Arena has

kicked off the Spartan Middle

East series, marking a new

chapter for obstacle course racing in

the region. This debut brings a fusion

of high-energy endurance events and

large-scale community engagement to

the UAE capital. The venue will host

various race formats suitable for elite

athletes, first-timers, and children.

The event aims to promote fitness

and resilience while encouraging mass

participation through inclusive race

categories. Spectators can also enjoy

entertainment zones and branded

merchandise areas. The Spartan series

supports the growing demand for experiential

wellness and adventure-based

challenges in the region. With strong

backing from regional organisers and

a vibrant fitness community, Spartan’s

UAE expansion reflects a wider shift

towards active lifestyle events in the

Middle East.

Saudi Arabia Hosts $70M Esports World Cup

2025

Saudi Arabia is hosting the world’s

largest esports tournament with

the Esports World Cup 2025 offering

a record-breaking USD 70 million

prize pool. As highlighted in the report,

the event runs from July to August in

Riyadh, featuring top global teams and

players across multiple game titles. This

edition introduces club competitions,

regional qualifiers, MVP awards, and

significant rewards for performance.

The World Cup aligns with Saudi Vision

2030’s goal to diversify the economy

and establish the Kingdom as a global

gaming powerhouse. Major sports

and gaming personalities have been

brought in as ambassadors, drawing

international attention. With massive

investment and state support, the event

reinforces Saudi Arabia’s ambition to

lead the global esports ecosystem and

offer new opportunities for youth and

entertainment industries.

Saudi Esports Sector Targets $13.3B GDP Boost

by 2030

Saudi Arabia’s esports and gaming

industry is projected to contribute

USD 13.3 billion to the country’s

GDP by 2030. This surge aligns with

the Kingdom’s ambitious Vision 2030

strategy. The sector is also expected

to generate 39,000 new jobs, backed

by a young population where 67% are

already active gamers. The national

strategy, launched in 2022, includes

investment in education, infrastructure,

and talent development. Public-private

partnerships, gaming zones, and esports

academies are part of the ecosystem

being built to make Saudi Arabia a

global hub. By integrating esports into

economic diversification plans, Saudi

Arabia aims to lead the MENA region in

gaming innovation and competitiveness,

making it a top destination for global

tournaments, gaming publishers, and

content creators alike.


Dubai Sports World Returns for August 2025 Edition

Dubai Sports World is set to return

for its 2025 edition from August

3 to September 2 at the Dubai

World Trade Centre. The event offers a

wide range of sporting activities across

nine core sports including football,

basketball, tennis, volleyball, badminton,

pickleball, padel, table tennis, and

cricket. Alongside competitive leagues,

DSW features children’s zones with

soft play areas, trampolines, and arts

and crafts, providing a family-friendly

atmosphere. Additional attractions

include sports academies, active fun

zones with gym equipment, foosball,

and retro video games. Designed to keep

the community active indoors during

the hot summer months, Dubai Sports

World offers participants of all ages an

opportunity to enjoy fitness and social

engagement in a safe, climate-controlled

environment. Registration and event

details are available through the official

website.

L’Étape Dubai by Tour

de France Returns in

January 2026

L’Étape Dubai by Tour de France

will return for its second edition

on 25 January 2026 with support

from government and sponsors. The

first event in February 2025 attracted

over 1,000 amateur cyclists including

243 international participants and 266

from the UAE. This year, the event

expects around 2,000 riders competing

across competitive, family, and

kids’ categories. Cyclists can choose

between the 101 km race or the 50 km

ride, with 20 km family and kids’ races

scheduled the day before. Pre-registration

opens on 27 July 2025 with a 15

percent early bird discount, and general

registration begins in September.

The weekend will also feature a larger

fan village and expanded community

activities to engage participants and

spectators.

Al Ain to Host Abu Dhabi World Grappling Championship

Al Ain will host the inaugural

Abu Dhabi World Grappling

Championship from August 1

to 3, 2025. The event takes place at the

ADNEC Centre and is organised by International

Vision Sports Management

in collaboration with the Department

of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi.

It is held under the Abu Dhabi Jiu-Jitsu

Pro (AJP) banner, reflecting the growing

popularity of grappling worldwide.

The championship aims to attract top

athletes and fans from across the globe

to compete in this fast-growing combat

sport. Grappling combines elements

of Brazilian jiu-jitsu, wrestling, and

submission fighting, offering diverse

challenges for competitors of all skill

Qiddiya City, Saudi Arabia’s ambitious

entertainment and sports

development, is set to establish

itself as a premier global golfing destination.

Scheduled to open in 2026, the

centerpiece is an 18-hole championship

golf course designed by Sir Nick Faldo,

nestled against the dramatic cliffs of the

Tuwaiq Mountains. This course is part of

Qiddiya’s broader strategy to diversify its

tourism and sporting sectors under Vision

levels. The event supports Abu Dhabi’s

vision to develop martial arts and

promote healthy lifestyles through

world-class sporting events.

Qiddiya City to Become New Global Golfing Hub

2030. In addition to the Faldo-designed

course, Qiddiya City has partnered with

the Faldo Series, the world’s leading development

pathway for young golfers, to

host events that will foster grassroots golf

within the Kingdom and beyond. These

initiatives aim to promote the development

of the sport among the next generation,

positioning Qiddiya as a central hub for

youth golf in the region, encouraging

fitness and well-being.


Transport


Used electric vehicles on display at a UAE dealership, attracting eco-conscious and budget-savvy buyers alike.

What’s Fueling the

Surge in Demand

for Used EVs in the

UAE?

Affordable Pricing, Green Incentives, and Evolving

Infrastructure are Accelerating Demand for Used

EVs Across the UAE.

The demand for used electric vehicles

(EVs) in the UAE is gaining remarkable

traction, driven by a confluence of affordability,

environmental awareness,

and evolving market dynamics. As the

country accelerates its green mobility

agenda under the UAE Net Zero by 2050

strategy, more residents are exploring

second-hand EVs as a viable alternative to

conventional cars. Lower upfront costs,

reduced maintenance expenses, and improved

charging infrastructure are making

pre-owned EVs increasingly attractive.

Additionally, government incentives and

the growing availability of certified used

models are removing barriers for adoption.

This surge reflects a broader transition

toward sustainable transportation.


The UAE’s electric vehicle (EV)

market has witnessed a significant

transformation in recent

years, not only in the new car segment

but also in the growing demand for

used EVs. As the nation continues to

accelerate towards its Net Zero 2050

target and embrace sustainable mobility,

a secondary EV market is rapidly

gaining traction among value-conscious

consumers, environmentally aware

drivers, and fleet operators. A confluence

of economic, environmental, and

technological factors is pushing more

residents to consider pre-owned EVs as

practical and cost-effective alternatives

to petrol or diesel vehicles.

Lower Entry Costs Drive Consumer

Interest

One of the most compelling reasons

Promoting the use of

electric vehicles is

integral to the UAE’s

sustainability goals

and our transition to a

greener economy. We are

committed to supporting

infrastructure, regulation,

and innovation that

enable cleaner transport

solutions for all.”

H.E. Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, UAE

Minister of Energy and Infrastructure

behind the rising demand for used EVs

is affordability. New electric vehicles

still command premium prices due to

high battery production costs and limited

local manufacturing. In contrast,

the used EV segment offers substantial

savings, sometimes up to 40 percent less

than new models. For many first-time

EV buyers or middle-income households,

this lower price point presents

an opportunity to transition to electric

mobility without the financial burden

of a new vehicle.

Moreover, as EV technology matures

and first-generation models complete

their lease cycles, a growing number

of well-maintained used vehicles are

entering the market. This trend is

expected to accelerate over the next

five years, making the secondary EV

market more accessible than ever.

Wider Availability and Model

Options

The increasing availability of popular

EV models on the pre-owned market is

also contributing to consumer uptake.

Models such as the Tesla Model 3, Nissan

Leaf, BMW i3, and Chevrolet Bolt

are now regularly featured on UAE car

marketplaces, offering buyers a variety

of price points, performance capabilities,

and design options. Previously,

the market for used EVs was limited

and sporadic, but with higher volumes

of imports and trade-ins, inventory is

becoming more consistent.

Additionally, automotive dealers

and certified platforms are beginning

to offer specialised EV inspection and

refurbishment services, providing

consumers with greater confidence in

the quality and longevity of used EV

purchases. This professionalisation of

the used EV space is key to fostering

long-term growth and trust.

Fuel and Maintenance Savings

Over Time

Cost-conscious buyers are not only

drawn to the initial lower price of

used EVs but also to their long-term

savings. EVs have fewer moving parts

compared to internal combustion engine

vehicles, which significantly reduces

maintenance costs. There is no need

for oil changes, exhaust repairs, or

engine tune-ups. Moreover, the price of

electricity remains lower than petrol in

the UAE, especially with incentives for

home charging installations and public

charging infrastructure supported by

government partnerships.

Fleet operators and ride-hailing

companies are particularly attentive

to these savings. Switching to used

EVs allows them to expand or renew

their fleets with lower total cost of

ownership, especially as fuel prices

fluctuate. For high-mileage drivers,

this economic advantage is especially

appealing.

Improved Charging Infrastructure

and Range Confidence

Historically, concerns over charging

station availability and battery range

deterred potential EV buyers. However,

the landscape has changed dramatically.

The UAE government, particularly

through initiatives by the Dubai Electricity

and Water Authority (DEWA)

and Abu Dhabi’s Department of Energy,

has invested heavily in public charging

infrastructure. Hundreds of charging

points are now available across key

highways, residential zones, and commercial

districts.

In addition, battery technology in

early EV models has proven to be more

durable than initially expected. Many

used EVs on the market still retain

over 70 to 80 percent battery capacity,

which is more than sufficient for daily

commutes or city travel. Range anxiety,

once a major barrier, is now less of a

concern thanks to both infrastructure

improvements and better consumer

education.

Sustainability and Environmental

Awareness

The UAE’s younger, environmentally

aware population is also playing a role

in boosting the used EV market. As

climate consciousness grows, many

consumers are re-evaluating their

transportation choices. Opting for a

pre-owned EV not only reduces their

carbon footprint but also supports circular

economy principles by extending

the lifecycle of existing vehicles.

Furthermore, public and private

sector campaigns on sustainable living,

alongside the UAE’s green mobility

policies, have shifted public perception.

What was once a niche choice is

now viewed as a responsible and forward-thinking

decision. For individuals

and businesses seeking a cost-effective,

eco-friendly transport solution, used

EVs are an obvious choice.


Energy News

Dubai’s DEWA Processes Over 7.2 Million Digital Transactions in H1 2025

Dubai Electricity and Water Authority

(DEWA) has processed

a remarkable 7.2 million digital

transactions in the first half of 2025,

reflecting the utility’s ongoing digital

transformation. These transactions

cover a wide range of customer services

including bill payments, meter readings,

new connections, and maintenance

requests. DEWA’s investment in smart

digital platforms enhances customer

convenience, operational efficiency,

and sustainability efforts. The high

volume of transactions underlines

the Emirate’s commitment to smart

city initiatives and seamless service

delivery. DEWA continues to innovate

by integrating AI and data analytics,

contributing to improved energy management

and customer experience. This

digital milestone marks a significant

step in Dubai’s broader vision to lead

in technology-driven governance.

Aramco Nears $10B

Deal With BlackRock

for Jafurah Infrastructure

Project

Saudi Aramco is reportedly close

to finalising a $10 billion infrastructure

investment deal with

global asset manager BlackRock for

the Jafurah gas field development. This

deal is one of the largest public-private

partnerships in Saudi Arabia, aiming to

fund critical infrastructure including

pipelines, processing plants, and utilities.

Jafurah is a major unconventional gas

field project, integral to Saudi Arabia’s

energy diversification and natural gas

expansion plans. The partnership with

BlackRock reflects Aramco’s strategy

to leverage private capital to accelerate

project delivery while mitigating fiscal

pressure. This infrastructure financing

will underpin the development of one

of the world’s largest non-associated

gas fields, positioning Saudi Arabia as

a key player in the global gas market

amid rising energy demands.

European Commission Opens Investigation into

ADNOC’s Acquisition of Covestro

The European Commission has

launched an in-depth investigation

into ADNOC’s acquisition

of a majority stake in Covestro, the

German chemicals manufacturer. The

probe will assess whether the deal

risks reducing competition within the

European market for polycarbonate

and related chemical products. AD-

NOC’s strategic investment aims to

expand its footprint in the chemicals

sector, diversifying its portfolio beyond

Emirates Central Cooling Systems

Corporation (Empower) has

commenced cooling services

for the first phase of Al Habtoor Tower,

marking a key milestone in the

project’s development. This district

cooling system will provide efficient,

environmentally friendly air conditioning,

reducing energy consumption and

carbon emissions. Empower’s state-ofthe-art

cooling technology supports

sustainable urban growth in Dubai by

enhancing comfort while minimising

environmental impact. The Al Habtoor

Tower development is a significant

luxury residential and commercial

project, and Empower’s involvement

underscores Dubai’s commitment to

green building standards and smart

hydrocarbons. However, the Commission

will scrutinize potential impacts

on pricing, supply, and innovation. This

move reflects the growing regulatory

vigilance over large cross-border acquisitions

in critical industries. ADNOC,

a key player in the Middle East energy

sector, continues to pursue growth in

downstream industries, while balancing

regulatory compliance amid increasing

global scrutiny of energy-related

mergers and acquisitions.

Empower Starts Cooling Operations for First

Phase of Al Habtoor Tower

infrastructure. With district cooling

proven to cut energy use by up to 50%

compared to conventional systems, this

initiative aligns with Dubai’s broader

sustainability and climate action goals

for 2030 and beyond.


ADNOC Drilling Secures $800M Contract to Support UAE Energy Goals

ADNOC Drilling has secured

a major contract worth AED

2.94 billion (USD 800 million)

from ADNOC Group to provide drilling

services aimed at boosting the UAE’s

oil and gas production capacity. The

agreement covers drilling operations

for the Upper Zakum field, one of the

largest offshore oil fields in the world.

This deal aligns with the UAE’s strategy

to expand hydrocarbon output while

ensuring energy security and economic

diversification. ADNOC Drilling will

deploy state-of-the-art rigs and advanced

technologies to enhance efficiency,

reduce emissions, and accelerate well

delivery. The contract also reinforces

ADNOC Drilling’s growing role in delivering

critical upstream infrastructure

across the region. As the UAE continues

to balance energy expansion

with sustainability, this development

marks another milestone in ADNOC’s

ongoing mission to meet rising global

energy demands.

ADNOC Signs LNG

Deal with Germany’s

SEFE to Boost Energy

Cooperation

ADNOC Gas & LNG has signed a

significant deal with Germany’s

state-owned energy company

SEFE to enhance liquefied natural

gas (LNG) supply and cooperation.

The agreement aims to strengthen

bilateral energy ties and support

Europe’s transition towards cleaner

energy sources amid evolving global

markets. ADNOC will supply LNG to

Germany, helping diversify Europe’s

energy mix and improve energy security.

This partnership reflects ADNOC’s

strategy to expand its international

LNG footprint and promote natural

gas as a key fuel in the global energy

transition. The deal also underscores

increasing collaboration between the

UAE and European nations on sustainable

energy development, positioning

ADNOC as a pivotal player in bridging

energy demands between the Middle

East and Europe.

Gulfnav Raises $136.15M in Oversubscribed

MCB Public Offering

Gulf Navigation Holding PJSC

(Gulfnav) has successfully

raised AED 500 million (approximately

$136.15 million) through

an oversubscribed public offering on

the Dubai Financial Market (DFM).

The capital increase reflects strong

investor confidence in Gulfnav’s strategic

growth plans within the shipping

and maritime sectors. Proceeds from

the offering will be used to expand the

company’s fleet, enhance operational

capabilities, and support new business

opportunities amid increasing regional

trade volumes. The oversubscription

highlights robust demand for Gulfnav’s

shares, signaling positive market sentiment

toward Dubai’s maritime industry

as a vital logistics hub connecting

global trade routes. Gulfnav aims to

strengthen its position as a leading

regional shipping company with a

diversified portfolio and sustainable

growth trajectory.

Saudi SPPC Secures $8.3 Billion Renewable

Energy Contracts for 15 GW Capacity

Saudi Arabia’s state-run Saudi Power

Procurement Company (SPPC),

also known as the Principal Buyer,

has signed power purchase agreements

worth SAR 31 billion (USD 8.3 billion) to

support seven renewable energy projects

with a combined capacity of 15 GW. The

deals involve a consortium led by ACWA

Power, along with Badeel (owned by the

Public Investment Fund) and Aramco

Power. The contracts include five solar

PV plants totalling 12 GW and two wind

farms generating 3 GW, located across

Aseer, Madinah, Makkah, and Riyadh. This

marks the largest single-phase renewable

tender awarded globally. The projects

are part of the Kingdom’s National Renewable

Energy Programme and Vision

2030 strategy. Operations are expected to

begin between late 2027 and early 2028,

advancing Saudi Arabia’s target of 50%

renewable power generation by 2030.


Infographic

The FinTech

Boom in UAE:

Who’s Using What and Why

92%

of UAE residents use mobile

banking or e-wallets

64%

of expat investors now

rely on fintech platforms

over traditional banks

$

$2.1B

in fintech investment

over the last three years

230+

active fintech startups

in the country

#1

UAE ranks #1 in MENA

for fintech readiness,

adoption, and regulation

What’s Driving the Shift to FinTech?

Faster onboarding

(no branch visits or

long paperwork)

Lower fees on transactions

and investing

24/7 access to funds,

dashboards, and tools

Multi-currency options to

manage global wealth

Sharia-compliant investing

and ethical options

are gaining traction

Better control through

budgeting apps and

goal-based saving


Most Popular FinTech Platforms in UAE

Investing & Wealth

Underserved Finance

• Sarwa – ETF portfolios, Shariah options, goalbased

investing

• NOW Money / Rise – Salary cards and banking

access for low-income expats

• StashAway – Global investing with risk-based

portfolios

• Mamo Pay – Quick P2P payments

and SME solutions

• Wahed – Halal investing with automated

portfolios

• BitOasis / Binance – Crypto trading and

payments

• Baraka – Stock investing + financial

education for beginners

FinTech Trends to Watch

in 2025

• AI-powered financial coaching inside apps

Banking & Budgeting

• Islamic fintech expanding beyond investing

into pensions, insurance, and buy-now-paylater

• Liv. by Emirates NBD – Digital bank with

lifestyle rewards

• Digital-first real estate investing platforms are

launching fractional ownership products

• Zand – UAE’s first digital-only bank

YAP – Banking for expats with budgeting tools

• Fintech for women is growing with genderfocused

savings and planning features

• Tabby / Tamara – Buy now, pay later services

Underserved Finance

• Cross-border investing & remittance

integration in one app experience

Final Takeaway

Fintech isn’t just replacing traditional banking; it’s changing how people

think about money. Whether it’s saving smarter, investing globally,

or sending funds home, UAE residents are leaning into apps and

platforms that put power, choice, and simplicity in their hands.


Transport


Autonomous delivery drones in operation at a UAE logistics hub, streamlining cargo transport with precision and speed.

AI Drones Are

Changing the Way

Cargo Moves Across

the UAE

AI-Powered Drones are Redefining Cargo Logistics

Across the UAE with Faster, Cleaner, and Smarter

Delivery Systems.

The UAE’s ambitions to become a global

logistics and innovation hub are accelerating

through the integration of artificial

intelligence (AI) into drone technology.

These AI-powered drones are transforming

how cargo is transported across the country

by offering faster, more efficient, and

cost-effective alternatives to conventional

delivery systems. With increasing applications

across e-commerce, healthcare,

defence, and last-mile logistics, drones

are now an operational part of the UAE’s

supply chain ecosystem rather than an

experimental concept.By improving

delivery times, reducing emissions, and

navigating both congested and remote

areas with precision, AI drones are poised

to become a core pillar of future cargo

movement in the Emirates.


The use of AI drones in logistics

aligns closely with the UAE’s

broader vision for digital transformation

and smart mobility. The

national innovation strategy prioritises

technologies such as AI, robotics, and

autonomous systems to enhance public

services and economic productivity.

Programs like Dubai’s Drone Box initiative

and the Smart and Autonomous

The buildings and

construction sector

contribute significantly

to the national carbon

footprint. Globally, the

buildings and construction

sector is estimated to

account for up to forty per

cent of annual greenhouse

gas emissions. This sector

has the most embedded

emissions as it relies

heavily on concrete,

which is one of the most

used products globally.”

H.E. Mariam bint Mohammed Almheiri,

Minister of Climate Change and Environment

Vehicles Industries (SAVI) cluster in

Abu Dhabi demonstrate a national

commitment to redefining transport

and logistics.

Government authorities are working

closely with private sector stakeholders

to develop clear regulations that enable

safe drone deployment across urban

and industrial zones. This cooperative

approach has accelerated the responsible

rollout of AI drone operations

while ensuring public safety.

Boosting Last-Mile Delivery

Capabilities

Last-mile logistics, often the most

time-consuming and costly segment

of a delivery, stands to benefit significantly

from AI-powered drones. In

cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, where

traffic congestion can delay deliveries,

drones provide a reliable alternative

that bypasses roads altogether. This

results in faster and more predictable

delivery timelines.

AI plays a critical role by enabling

drones to optimise routes, avoid restricted

areas, and respond in real time

to environmental changes. The result

is greater efficiency and fewer delays.

Logistics companies are increasingly

adopting these technologies to manage

deliveries within free zones, residential

complexes, and industrial parks where

controlled conditions support safe and

effective drone operations.

Reaching Remote and Hard-to-Access

Locations

AI drones are especially valuable in

areas where infrastructure is limited or

terrain is difficult to navigate. Remote

communities, offshore energy installations,

and desert sites often lack the

road networks required for traditional

vehicles. Drones can deliver essential

supplies, medical kits, or equipment

components without the need for costly

infrastructure development.

AI systems enable drones to identify

the most efficient routes while

dynamically adjusting to obstacles,

wind patterns, or changing conditions.

In emergencies, this capability

becomes critical. The UAE has already

demonstrated the use of drones in

humanitarian aid and disaster relief,

with AI helping prioritise drop zones

and coordinate safe delivery.

Lower Emissions and Operational

Costs

In addition to their logistical advantages,

drones also offer environmental

and economic benefits. Powered by

electricity rather than fossil fuels,

drones contribute to the UAE’s carbon

reduction goals by lowering emissions

from transport operations. Their

lightweight design and autonomous

functionality further reduce the need

for fuel, labour, and ground support

infrastructure.

For logistics firms, these efficiencies

translate into lower operational costs

and improved service delivery. Drones

do not require large depots or warehousing

and can be managed remotely.

AI handles many maintenance tasks,

such as diagnostics and performance

tracking, allowing providers to scale

up without proportionally increasing

resources.

Data Intelligence for Smarter

Logistics

Every flight completed by an AI-powered

drone generates valuable data.

This includes information on delivery

routes, traffic patterns, environmental

conditions, and customer behaviour.

AI systems process this data to improve

decision-making and predict

future trends. Businesses can use

these insights to optimise inventory

management, schedule dispatches

more effectively, and anticipate customer

demand.

Fleet coordination is another major

advantage. AI allows multiple drones

to operate simultaneously across different

delivery zones while ensuring

they do not interfere with each other.

A central system manages the fleet,

monitors compliance, and adjusts

routes based on live conditions. This

level of orchestration supports higher

throughput and reliability.

Privacy is another area of concern.

AI drones equipped with cameras and

sensors must comply with strict data

protection standards. Public awareness

campaigns and transparent governance

will be essential to building trust and

securing community support for drone

operations in residential and commercial

zones.

AI-powered drones are reshaping

the logistics sector across the UAE

by offering faster, smarter, and more

sustainable ways to move cargo. Their

role in streamlining last-mile delivery,

and reducing emissions makes them an

essential tool in the country’s future

transport strategy.


Investment


UAE villas are being transformed with smart tech, wellness features, and eco-conscious design choices

UAE’s Luxury Home

Renovation Surge:

From Style to Smart

Investment

Luxury Homeowners in the UAE are Turning

to Full-Scale Renovations to Boost Lifestyle,

Value, and Sustainability

Luxury home renovations are gaining remarkable

momentum across the UAE, as

high-net-worth individuals increasingly

seek to elevate their living environments

while boosting long-term investment returns.

From the heart of Dubai to Abu

Dhabi’s elite waterfront districts, homeowners

are transforming traditional villas

into modern sanctuaries outfitted with

smart technologies, wellness spaces, and

sustainable features. These upgrades are

no longer driven by aesthetics alone,

they represent a calculated strategy to

increase property value, market appeal,

and personal comfort. The UAE is redefining

luxury living through intelligent and

lifestyle-focused renovations that blend

innovation with elegance.


The UAE’s luxury property market

is undergoing a noticeable

transformation, where highend

homeowners and investors are

increasingly prioritising renovations

as both a stylistic and strategic move.

Once dominated by cosmetic upgrades

and seasonal redesigns, today’s luxury

renovations involve comprehensive

overhauls of villas and penthouses,

integrating smart technologies, sustainable

materials, wellness features,

and bespoke aesthetics. This growing

trend reflects a broader shift in buyer

preferences and signals that luxury

property owners are not just renovating

for comfort, but for significant longterm

gains in value, lifestyle quality,

and market competitiveness.

Smart Homes and Sustainable

Living: Redefining Modern Luxury

Smart home technology is one of the

most defining features of this renovation

wave. What was once considered

a novelty or high-end add-on is now

seen as essential. From AI-integrated

climate control and lighting systems to

facial recognition security and voice-activated

appliances, smart automation

is redefining modern luxury. In Dubai

alone, the smart home market is projected

to grow from USD 76 million in

2024 to over USD 122 million by 2029,

underlining the increasing demand

among high-net-worth individuals

for intelligent living spaces. These

upgrades not only offer convenience

but also drive energy efficiency and

enhance resale potential, making them

a logical choice for renovation-focused

homeowners.

Alongside technological enhancements,

sustainability has emerged as

a priority for luxury renovations. Highend

homeowners are embracing green

materials, energy-efficient systems,

and water-saving technologies to align

with the UAE’s environmental goals,

particularly the Net Zero 2050 Strategy

and the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan.

Solar panels, eco-friendly insulation,

and smart thermostats are now common

elements of villa upgrades. Renovators

are also incorporating sustainable building

practices and materials to reduce

the environmental footprint of their

properties. These measures are not

only environmentally responsible but

also economically wise, as they reduce

long-term utility costs and appeal to

eco-conscious buyers.

Another defining aspect of the luxury

renovation trend is the focus on

wellness-oriented spaces. Private

gyms, spa-style bathrooms, meditation

areas, and even indoor salt rooms are

becoming increasingly popular among

UAE residents who want to transform

their homes into holistic sanctuaries.

The integration of purified air systems,

circadian lighting, and soundproofing

is also gaining traction as part of wellness

design. This focus on well-being

aligns with global lifestyle trends and

is particularly appealing in a post-pandemic

world where home health and

comfort are of paramount importance.

The transformation of residences into

wellness retreats is no longer a luxury

but a lifestyle necessity for many affluent

families.

Wellness and Personalisation at

the Heart of Elite Design

Outdoor areas are receiving just as

much attention as interiors. In a country

known for its sunshine, outdoor living

is considered an extension of the home.

High-end renovations now include

features such as shaded terraces,

Modernising homes with

sustainable and intelligent

solutions aligns with our

goal of building resilient

urban environments.”

H.E. Mariam bint Mohammed Almheiri,

Minister of Climate Change and Environment

al fresco dining areas, resort-style

pools, and outdoor kitchens. These

elements are not simply for show,

but are designed to maximise liveable

space and comfort throughout the year.

Landscaping has also evolved, with

homeowners favouring native plants,

water-efficient irrigation systems, and

sculptural gardens that complement

architectural styles. This emphasis on

functional, beautiful outdoor spaces

reflects a growing desire for properties

that offer a seamless blend of indoor

and outdoor living.

Strategic Value Growth in a Competitive

Real Estate Market

Personalisation plays a central role

in luxury renovations. In elite neighbourhoods

such as Palm Jumeirah and

Emirates Hills, custom-built villas are

being tailored to reflect their owners’

tastes, values, and cultural heritage.

From hand-carved marble detailing

and imported European fixtures to

curated art installations and bespoke

lighting schemes, each renovation becomes

a personal statement. Interior

design trends are also shifting towards

modular spaces, muted colour palettes,

and natural materials, creating

environments that are both flexible

and timeless. High-end buyers are

increasingly seeking residences that

feel exclusive and intimate, rather than

generically opulent.

Government support and regulatory

advancements have further enabled

this trend. Dubai’s streamlined building

permit systems, green building codes,

and smart city initiatives have made

it easier and faster for homeowners

to undertake complex renovations.

Moreover, the UAE’s broader commitment

to technological innovation

and sustainable urban planning has

encouraged more investors to participate

in the luxury renovation space.

As the country aims to position itself

as a global hub for future-ready living,

the transformation of its luxury housing

stock is a natural and necessary

evolution.

The rise in luxury home renovations

across the UAE reflects a broader evolution

in how property is perceived not

just as a place to live, but as a lifestyle

investment. By integrating smart technologies,

and sustainable materials,

homeowners are future-proofing their

residences.


Opinion

Dubai Investments’ H1

2025 Profit Before Tax

Surges to AED 546.28

Million

Dubai Investments’ performance in the first half of 2025 underscores

the strength of its diversified portfolio and strategic focus on valueaccretive

sectors. Real estate continues to be a key contributor,

supported by a stable rental portfolio and progress on high-potential

development projects. At the same time, the Group’s manufacturing

businesses have benefited from operational efficiencies and

sustained demand, reinforcing their role as essential growth

pillars.”

Khalid Bin Kalban, Vice Chairman and CEO of Dubai Investments

Dubai Investments has posted strong

financial results for the first half

of 2025, reporting a profit before

tax of AED 546.28 million, a notable jump

from AED 431.68 million in the same period

last year. The performance highlights

the company’s steady momentum across

its diverse portfolio, particularly in real

estate and manufacturing.

For the second quarter alone (April

to June 2025), the company recorded a

profit before tax of AED 361.39 million, up

from AED 309.34 million in Q2 2024. The

improved earnings were driven largely by

stable rental income from its real estate

assets and operational efficiency in its

manufacturing units.

Dubai Investments also reported total

income of AED 1.89 billion for the six

months ending June 30, 2025, compared

to AED 2.03 billion a year earlier. Total

assets rose to AED 22.74 billion, up from

AED 22.10 billion at the end of December

2024. Meanwhile, equity attributable to

the owners stood at AED 13.89 billion,

slightly down from AED 14.11 billion six

months prior.

Focused on Growth

Looking ahead, Dubai Investments is

ramping up activity across its real estate

and financial services divisions. Several

major projects are underway or entering

key phases. Construction has begun on

Asayel Avenue at Mirdif Hills following

its groundbreaking in June. The phased

handover of villas at Danah Bay on Al

Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah, is progressing

as planned. Meanwhile, work on

Violet Tower in Jumeirah Village Circle

has reached 26% completion, with the

project on track for delivery in Q2 2026.

The Group is also moving forward with

the Follow-On Public Offering (FPO) of Al

Mal Capital REIT, signalling strong investor

interest and confidence in income-generating

sectors. The REIT’s expansion

strategy focuses on high-potential areas

like education, healthcare, and industrial

real estate.

With a solid pipeline of developments

and a clear strategic direction, Dubai Investments

is well-positioned to build on

its current momentum, grow its market

footprint, and deliver long-term value to

shareholders.



Global


Liberty Tokens gain global traction as a UAE fund injects USD 100 million into Trump’s blockchain project

UAE Fund Bets $100

Million on Trump’s

Liberty Tokens:

Here’s Why It Matters

A UAE Fund’s Investment in Trump-Linked

Liberty Tokens Reflects Rising Gulf Interest in

Politicised Crypto Ventures

In a move that has captured global attention,

a UAE-based investment fund

has purchased USD 100 million worth

of Liberty Tokens, digital assets linked

to former U.S. President Donald Trump’s

blockchain venture. This significant investment

highlights the UAE’s increasing

involvement in the digital asset space and

signals a strategic interest in politically

aligned, high-profile Web3 projects. The

Liberty Tokens, designed to support a

decentralised media and tech ecosystem

centred around Truth Social, mark a bold

attempt to merge blockchain innovation

with conservative political influence. With

this deal, the UAE is not only reinforcing

its ambition to be a global crypto hub but

also navigating the complex intersection

of technology, politics, and finance.


In a demonstration of growing Gulf

interest in blockchain assets, a

UAE-based investment fund has

purchased USD 100 million worth

of Liberty Tokens, a newly launched

cryptocurrency affiliated with former

U.S. President Donald Trump’s digital

media and technology initiatives. The

tokens, which operate within the Trump

Media & Technology Group (TMTG)

ecosystem, were developed by the

World Liberty Consortium (WLC) and

are designed to support what the group

calls “free speech-focused” platforms

and decentralised technology infrastructures.

The investment represents

one of the most significant international

endorsements of the project to date,

suggesting that the UAE is willing to

engage in politically nuanced, high-risk

digital ventures as part of its broader

digital asset strategy.

Liberty Tokens and the Politics of

Decentralised Media

According to a statement released by

the World Liberty Consortium, the

Liberty Tokens are intended to serve as

the “official token of the Liberty Ecosystem,”

which includes Truth Social,

Trump’s social media platform, and

other digital services built to compete

with mainstream tech companies. The

Consortium claims the tokens will power

user rewards, advertising mechanics,

and potential governance features in

what it envisions as a “free speech-first

digital economy.” The tokens are currently

issued on the Solana blockchain,

with plans for further interoperability

across decentralized platforms. While

critics have raised concerns about the

long-term viability and political nature

of the token, the backing from a UAE

fund gives the project global legitimacy

and capital support.

UAE’s Bold Digital Asset Strategy

and Sovereign Investment Play

The specific UAE entity behind the purchase

has not been publicly disclosed,

but sources familiar with the matter

have indicated it is a sovereign-aligned

fund with a growing appetite for emerging

digital technologies. This aligns with

recent moves by UAE institutions to

diversify their investment portfolios

with crypto assets, tokenised real estate,

and AI-driven financial tools. The

country has also rolled out supportive

regulatory frameworks through hubs

Our commitment to

digital assets aligns

with the UAE’s broader

vision to lead in financial

innovation and emerging

technologies.”

Omar bin Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State

for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy

and Remote Work Applications

like the Abu Dhabi Global Market

(ADGM) and Dubai’s Virtual Asset

Regulatory Authority (VARA), further

accelerating institutional adoption of

web3 innovations. The Liberty Token

investment appears to fit squarely within

this national strategy, blending financial

returns with geopolitical reach.

The acquisition was completed as

part of a private token sale, with the

UAE fund securing a discounted rate

and long-term lock-up terms. This strategic

positioning gives the fund early

exposure ahead of public trading and

offers potential upside if the Liberty

Ecosystem gains traction in the crowded

decentralized media space. The backing

also enhances the token’s credibility

among conservative U.S. investors

and international stakeholders who

are watching the project’s reception

amid regulatory scrutiny in the United

States. While Liberty Tokens are not

directly owned or managed by Trump

himself, he is expected to receive

licensing revenue from the use of his

brand and image in the project.

Market analysts are split on the

outlook for Liberty Tokens. Some view

them as highly speculative assets tethered

more to Trump’s political brand

than to robust technological infrastructure.

Others argue that the tokens could

carve out a niche among users seeking

alternatives to mainstream platforms

and could benefit from the growing

backlash against big tech censorship.

The UAE fund’s sizable commitment

suggests that, at minimum, it views

the tokens as a high-risk, high-reward

diversification play with soft power

implications. By associating with a

project that blends politics, media,

and blockchain, the fund is positioning

itself at the intersection of culture and

capital in the digital era.

The move comes at a time when

Gulf states are accelerating efforts to

become global blockchain and fintech

hubs. With initiatives such as Dubai’s

Metaverse Strategy and Abu Dhabi’s

recent push into tokenised finance,

the UAE has been seeking high-profile

opportunities to showcase its commitment

to innovation. This investment,

while controversial in the West due to

Trump’s polarising image, allows the

UAE to signal its willingness to support

ideological and technological pluralism

in global markets. The Liberty Token

purchase could also help the UAE

build influence among pro-crypto U.S.

lawmakers and institutions.

High-Risk, High-Reward: Market

Outlook and Regulatory Challenges

Critics have warned, however, that

the intertwining of politics and decentralised

finance could invite heightened

regulatory risk. The U.S. Securities and

Exchange Commission (SEC) has not

yet issued clear guidance on Liberty

Tokens, and ongoing investigations

into Trump Media’s public listing could

create volatility for affiliated ventures.

Yet, the UAE’s calculated entry into

the project suggests confidence in its

ability to navigate reputational risks

while staying ahead of blockchain

investment trends. It also reflects a

broader strategy by sovereign funds

in the region to place early bets on

potentially disruptive technologies,

even when they carry political baggage.

Ultimately, the USD 100 million

wager on Liberty Tokens may prove

either visionary or volatile, depending

on how the ecosystem performs and

how global regulators respond.


Global News

Forex Expo Dubai 2025 Nears Sell-Out as Global Brands Confirm Participation

The 8th edition of Forex Expo

Dubai is nearing full capacity,

with over 250 top-tier forex and

fintech brands already confirmed to

exhibit. Taking place on 6 –7 October

2025 at the Dubai World Trade Centre,

the expo has become the go-to

meeting place for industry players

aiming to scale their presence across

the Middle East, Africa, and beyond,

serving as a gateway to unmatched

exposure, powerful networking, and

direct access to thousands of traders,

investors, and brokers from around the

globe. From its debut in 2019 with just

50 exhibiting companies, Forex Expo

Dubai has experienced phenomenal

growth, transforming into one of the

world’s most influential forex & trading

events. Today, it stands as one of

the largest forex gatherings globally,

offering brands the opportunity to

drive real business outcomes through

high-impact engagement and expanded

visibility across priority trading markets

worldwide.

UAE and USA Sign Deal to Fast-Track Patent

Approvals

The United Arab Emirates and

the United States signed a Joint

Statement of Intent to accelerate

patent-granting procedures in the UAE.

This agreement was finalised during

the 66th Assemblies of the Member

States of the World Intellectual Property

Organisation (WIPO), held in Geneva.

The UAE’s Ministry of Economy and

Tourism signed the statement alongside

the United States Patent and Trademark

Office (USPTO). The new programme

introduces collaborative mechanisms

that allow the UAE to recognise positive

patent examination results issued by

the USPTO. This step will apply to the

corresponding Emirati applications,

provided they comply with national

laws. By adopting this system, the UAE

expects to streamline its patent review

process. It also marks a broader commitment

to align with global intellectual

property standards while supporting

domestic innovation.

Dubai Islamic Bank

Supports Turkish Airlines

with Financing

Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB), the

world’s first full-service Islamic

bank and the UAE’s largest,

has successfully executed Turkish

Airlines’ first-ever Islamic aircraft

financing transaction, marking a pivotal

milestone in Shariah-compliant

cross-border finance. The deal sees

DIB financing the acquisition of a new

Airbus A350-941 for Turkish Airlines,

structured through a 12-year Islamic

lease (Ijarah), introducing fully Shariah-compliant

structures to the Turkish

national carrier’s funding portfolio.

This collaboration underscores DIB’s

continued leadership in advancing

Islamic financial solutions for global

clients and customers beyond regional

boundaries.

Space42 Secures $695.5 Million to Launch Advanced UAE Satellites

Space42 has secured a US$695.5

million Export Credit Agency-backed

financing facility

to support the development of its

next-generation geostationary satellites,

Al Yah 4 and Al Yah 5. The facility

marks a significant step in the company’s

broader strategy to establish

advanced, multi-orbit connectivity

infrastructure. Arranged by Crédit

Agricole CIB, Santander CIB, Societe

Generale, and Natixis, and backed by

Bpifrance Assurance Export, the deal

underscores Space42’s attractiveness

to leading global financial institutions.

The financing will fund satellites

scheduled for launch in 2027 and 2028,

enabling the company to align capital

with long-term project timelines.


Etihad Airways and

SKY express Sign

Codeshare for Greece

Etihad Airways has entered into a

new codeshare agreement with

SKY express, a leading Greek

regional carrier, unlocking access to 24

island destinations across Greece and

three Eastern Mediterranean cities for

travellers connecting through Athens.

The partnership builds on the success

of the airlines’ previous interline cooperation

and significantly broadens

Etihad’s network in the region. Through

this codeshare, Etihad passengers can

enjoy smooth connections beyond Athens

to a wide range of popular leisure

destinations. Under the new agreement,

Etihad will place its flight code on a

number of SKY express-operated domestic

services, enabling travellers to

book a single ticket for international

and onward domestic segments.

Dubai Chambers Unveils Dubai Hub London

Dubai Chambers has launched

Dubai Hub London, its first

international centre, to support

companies and investors aiming to

enter Dubai’s market. This initiative

aligns with the leadership’s vision of

positioning Dubai as a global capital

for business. The hub consolidates

government and private sector services,

offering economic, real estate,

and legal support under one roof. By

simplifying procedures for businesses,

it enhances the emirate’s reputation

as an investor-friendly destination.

Supervised by Dubai Chambers and

operated by Al Burj Holding as an

outsourcing centre, Dubai Hub London

is a licensed platform that supports

Dubai’s global economic strategy. In

its first phase, it will deliver services

from several departments including

the Dubai Land Department, Dubai

Department of Economy and Tourism,

General Directorate of Identity

and Foreigners Affairs, Dubai Courts,

and more.

Bahrain Announces $17 Billion U.S. Investment

During Trump Visit

UAE and Germany

Launch Joint Business

Council to Boost

Economic Partnership

The UAE and Germany have officially

launched the UAE-Germany

Business Council (GUBC) in a

high-level ceremony in Berlin. The event

was witnessed by Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al

Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and

Advanced Technology and Special

Envoy to Germany, alongside Katherina

Reiche, Germany’s Minister of Economic

Affairs and Energy. Held during Dr. Al

Jaber’s official visit to Germany, the

ceremony brought together over 150

business leaders and senior officials from

both countries. The newly established

council reflects more than 50 years of

bilateral economic cooperation. The

UAE-Germany Business Council aims

to create new avenues for economic

collaboration and enhance development

in an evolving global economy.

Bahrain’s Crown Prince and Prime

Minister, Salman bin Hamad Al

Khalifa, announced over $17

billion in investment deals with the

United States during his high-level

meeting with President Donald Trump

at the White House on Wednesday.

The agreements span several sectors

including aviation, energy, advanced

technology, and nuclear cooperation.

Strategic Trade, Tech, and Energy

Investments

The centrepiece of the investment

package is a $7 billion agreement for

Gulf Air to purchase 12 Boeing aircraft,

with an option for six more, and 40

General Electric engines. According

to a White House official, the broader

deal is expected to support 30,000

American jobs.

UAE’s FCCI and India’s Madhya Pradesh Discuss

Economic Cooperation

The Federation of UAE Chambers

of Commerce and Industry (FC-

CI) hosted a commercial delegation

from India’s Madhya Pradesh

in Dubai today to explore avenues

for economic cooperation across key

sectors including manufacturing, textiles,

and automotive. The delegation

was led by Dr. Mohan Yadav, Chief

Minister of Madhya Pradesh, and the

discussions focused on expanding

collaboration between private sector

players from both countries. The talks

also centred on strengthening economic

ties through the Arab-Indian

Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and

Agriculture, aiming to boost trade and

encourage joint investments.

A key outcome of the meeting was

a proposal to sign a Memorandum of

Understanding (MoU) between the

FCCI and the Madhya Pradesh Development

Authority.


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Trade


UAE free zones support expat-led trade with tax benefits, strategic locations, and integrated infrastructure.

How Free Zones

Are Powering

Expat Trade

Strategies

Free Zones in the UAE Offer Expat Traders Full

Ownership, Flexibility, and Seamless Global

Business Access.

The United Arab Emirates has long been

recognised as a gateway for global trade,

and its expansive network of free zones

has played a pivotal role in attracting

expatriate entrepreneurs and investors.

Offering full foreign ownership, tax incentives,

and streamlined regulatory

frameworks, these zones provide a favourable

environment for establishing

and scaling cross-border businesses.

For expats looking to engage in trade,

the UAE’s free zones serve as strategic

launchpads, supporting diverse sectors

such as logistics, finance, technology, and

commodities. As the UAE continues to

diversify its economy, free zones are becoming

essential components in expat-led

trade strategies across the region.


The United Arab Emirates (UAE)

continues to serve as a magnet

for global commerce, in no

small part due to its robust free zone

ecosystem. With over 40 multi-sector

and industry-specific free zones strategically

located across the country,

expat entrepreneurs and traders are

increasingly leveraging these jurisdictions

to build and scale international

businesses. From seamless company

registration processes to tax incentives

and 100% foreign ownership, free zones

offer a compelling environment for

trade-driven strategies.

For expatriates entering or expanding

into the UAE market, free zones

remove many of the traditional barriers

to entry. Whether dealing in logistics,

manufacturing, IT, finance, or e-commerce,

these zones act as springboards

for cross-border trade. The UAE’s favourable

geographical position between

East and West enhances this potential

further, enabling fast access to Europe,

Africa, and Asia.

Enabling Ease of Doing Business

A central advantage of the UAE’s

free zones lies in the ease of doing

business. Licensing procedures are

streamlined, allowing companies to

become operational in a matter of

days. Dedicated authorities within

each free zone handle administrative

procedures, sparing entrepreneurs

from complex bureaucratic delays.

This agility is especially attractive to

expatriates who may not be familiar

with regional regulations but want a

smooth setup process.

Additionally, most free zones offer

comprehensive infrastructure and

support services. These include office

space, warehousing, logistics, and access

to digital tools. The provision of

legal, banking, and corporate services

within zone boundaries means that

expats can launch businesses with

minimal friction. As a result, the free

zone model has become synonymous

with efficiency and speed.

Historically, expatriates were required

to partner with a UAE national

when setting up a business on the

mainland. Free zones eliminated this

restriction by allowing 100% foreign

ownership, thereby granting expats

full control over their ventures. This

autonomy has proven critical in attracting

global entrepreneurs who prefer

retaining equity and control.

Moreover, the ability to repatriate

100% of profits and capital investments

offers additional confidence. With no

currency restrictions and access to

international banking channels, free

zones empower expats to operate

with financial flexibility and global

reach. This is particularly important

for trade-focused enterprises that rely

on fluid capital movement between

international markets.

Sector-Specific Zones Supporting

Trade Specialisation

One of the most notable strengths of

the UAE’s free zone model is its sectoral

customisation. Zones like Jebel

Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) cater to logistics

and maritime trade, while Dubai

Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC)

supports commodity trading. Similarly,

Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) is

a leading hub for financial services

and fintech enterprises, while Sharjah

Publishing City targets publishing and

media industries.

This industry segmentation allows

expatriates to access tailored infrastructure,

regulatory frameworks, and

peer networks. A trader importing and

exporting precious metals, for instance,

would benefit from being within DMCC

due to its strong commodities infrastructure

and globally recognised standards.

Similarly, e-commerce traders would

find Dubai CommerCity advantageous

due to its integration with digital platforms

and last-mile logistics services.

Strategic Location and Logistics

Connectivity

The UAE’s position as a regional logistics

powerhouse is further enhanced by

its free zones. Many of these zones are

integrated with major ports, airports,

and highways. JAFZA, for example,

is located next to Jebel Ali Port and

Al Maktoum International Airport,

providing unmatched multimodal

connectivity. This enables seamless

movement of goods and accelerates

supply chain efficiency.

For expats engaging in trade, this

means faster turnaround times, reduced

shipping costs, and better inventory

control. The UAE’s logistics

infrastructure ranks among the best

globally, and free zones amplify this

capability by offering bonded warehouses,

integrated customs services,

and centralised clearance procedures.

These attributes significantly support

both importers and exporters.

Digitalisation and Innovation-Driven

Growth

The UAE Government’s commitment

to digital transformation is strongly

reflected in its free zones. Many now

offer end-to-end digital portals that

allow company registration, visa processing,

and licence renewals to be

completed online. This digital-first

approach reduces paperwork and

Free zones continue to

serve as key enablers of

foreign investment and

trade, supporting the

UAE’s vision for economic

diversification.”

His Excellency Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri,

Minister of Economy, UAE

enhances transparency.

Additionally, corporate tax was introduced

in 2023, though many free zones

offer exemptions or reduced rates for

qualifying income. Free zones in the

UAE continue to empower expatriate

entrepreneurs and traders by offering a

blend of operational freedom, strategic

location, digital innovation, and regulatory

support. As the country advances

its economic diversification agenda,

these zones will play an increasingly

vital role in shaping cross-border trade

strategies.


Travel News

Allo Beirut to Open First Lebanon Branch on Hamra Street

Allo Beirut, the popular UAE-based

Lebanese street food restaurant

chain, is set to launch its first

branch in Lebanon on Beirut’s iconic

Hamra Street later this year. This expansion

marks a significant step for the

brand, which has gained a loyal following

across the UAE for its authentic and modern

take on Lebanese cuisine. The new

outlet will offer Allo Beirut’s signature

dishes, including manakish and fresh

wraps, alongside some special additions

designed to appeal to the local Lebanese

palate. The expansion is part of the brand’s

strategy to deepen its connection with

Lebanon, the birthplace of its culinary

inspiration. Operated through a franchise

partnership with Fashmore Holding, the

new restaurant aims to become a leading

casual dining destination within Beirut’s

vibrant food scene.

Dubai World Trade

Centre Hospitality

Serves 527,000 Guests

in H1 2025

Dubai World Trade Centre Hospitality

reported welcoming over 527,000

guests during the first half of

2025, highlighting strong growth in the

region’s hospitality and events sector.

This increase reflects DWTC’s ongoing

investments in its facilities and services

to support a wide variety of events, from

trade exhibitions to conferences and

entertainment. The hospitality division

continues to expand its capabilities,

focusing on delivering exceptional guest

experiences in a safe, comfortable, and

engaging environment. The sustained rise

in visitor numbers underscores Dubai’s

status as a global hub for business and

tourism, attracting diverse audiences

from across the world. DWTC Hospitality

remains committed to driving innovation,

enhancing operational excellence, and

fostering partnerships to maintain this

positive trajectory throughout the rest

of the year.

Ras Al Khaimah Tourism CEO Raki Phillips to

Step Down in October

Raki Phillips, the CEO of Ras Al

Khaimah Tourism Development

Authority (RAKTDA), will step

down from his position in October 2025

after six years of leadership. During

his tenure, Phillips played a key role in

raising the emirate’s international tourism

profile and attracting visitors through

innovative marketing and sustainable

tourism strategies. His efforts contributed

to significant growth in hotel occupancy

rates and the development of new tourist

attractions. Phillips will soon join Accor as

Regional President for premium, midscale,

and economy hotels across the Middle

East, Africa, and Turkey. The RAKTDA

is currently in the process of selecting

a successor to continue advancing Ras

Al Khaimah’s tourism ambitions and

support the emirate’s vision of becoming

a leading regional destination.

UAE Passport Ranks 8th Globally, Leading the

Arab World

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has

achieved a significant milestone,

with its passport now ranked 8th

globally in the 2025 Henley Passport

Index. This remarkable ascent reflects

the country’s strategic diplomatic efforts

and expanding global influence. UAE

passport holders can now access 185

destinations without the need for a prior

visa, positioning the nation as a leader

in international mobility. Over the past

decade, the UAE has climbed 34 places

in the global rankings, underscoring its

commitment to fostering international

relations and enhancing travel freedom

for its citizens. This achievement not only

highlights the UAE’s growing stature on

the world stage but also sets a benchmark

for other nations in the region. The UAE’s

progress serves as a testament to the

effectiveness of its foreign policy and

diplomatic initiatives.


Etihad Airways Celebrates Record-Breaking Year with 20M Passengers

Etihad Airways has achieved a

historic milestone by transporting

over 20 million passengers in a

12-month period, marking the first time in

the airline’s history. This accomplishment

highlights a significant recovery and

growth trajectory for the Abu Dhabibased

carrier. The airline’s expansion is

further evidenced by the addition of new

aircraft to its fleet, including the recent

delivery of a Boeing B787-9 and the return

of its seventh Airbus A380 to service.

Looking ahead, Etihad plans to receive

18 new aircraft in 2025, including the

A321LR fleet, which will offer enhanced

amenities such as First Suites, fully

lie-flat Business seats, 4K screens, and

high-speed super Wi-Fi in all cabins. This

strategic investment aims to meet the

growing demand and elevate the guest

experience. Additionally, the airline has

expanded its global network by adding

27 new routes this year, bringing the total

number of destinations to nearly 90 by

the end of 2025.

UAE Residents Spend

Over AED 10,000 Per

Person on Summer

Travel

According to a recent survey by

Toluna, 24% of UAE travelers

plan to spend over Dh10,000

per person on their summer trips, reflecting

a growing trend of high-budget

vacations among residents. The survey

indicates that 60% of respondents intend

to travel internationally, while 21%

prefer domestic leisure trips. Luxury

experiences are particularly popular,

with some travelers allocating up to

Dh18,000 per person for a week-long

holiday, including premium accommodations

and activities. This spending

surge is attributed to increased disposable

incomes, a desire for unique

experiences, and the availability of

flexible payment options like ‘buy now,

pay later’ plans, which have become

more prevalent among travelers seeking

to manage their budget.

Wizz Air Abu Dhabi Exit May Send Fares Up 50%

Wizz Air has confirmed it will

cease operations from Abu

Dhabi’s Zayed International

Airport effective 1 September 2025,

ending its six‐year presence in the

UAE. The airline cited geopolitical

instability, repeated airspace closures,

engine reliability issues in the region’s

heat, regulatory barriers, and high

operating costs as key reasons for

withdrawal. Travel agents warn that

the exit could drive short-haul airfare

prices up by more than 50 percent, as

loyal passengers scramble for replacement

flights and ultra‐low‐cost seats

disappear. Budget travellers relying

on Wizz’s early‐book deals may face

higher costs and less choice, while

alternative carriers such as Air Arabia,

flydubai, and IndiGo are expected to

capture the displaced demand. Despite

the impact in Abu Dhabi, Wizz Air will

refocus its resources on European

markets. Source and refund details will

be communicated directly to affected

customers.

Air Arabia Adds Third Daily Flight Between

Sharjah and Bangkok

Air Arabia will introduce a third

daily flight between Sharjah

International Airport and Bangkok’s

Suvarnabhumi International

Airport starting 26 October 2025. This

expansion reflects rising demand for

travel between the UAE and Thailand,

supporting increased tourism and

business connectivity. With the new

service, travellers will benefit from

greater flexibility and more convenient

flight timings, with departures from

Sharjah scheduled in the early morning

and late evening, while return flights

from Bangkok will be available in the

morning and late afternoon. The move

aims to strengthen bilateral ties and

boost economic and cultural exchange

between the two countries. This additional

flight capacity is expected

to accommodate growing passenger

volumes and enhance the overall travel

experience for both leisure and business

passengers in the region.


Digital Assets


A customer uses a smartphone wallet to make a Digital Dirham payment at a local retail outlet

Pay, Save, and Send

Money Smarter: How

the Digital Dirham Could

Change Everyday Life

Digital Dirham Aims to Transform Everyday

Transactions While Supporting the UAE’s

Cashless Economy Ambitions

The UAE is taking a significant leap forward

in its digital economy journey with

the launch of the Digital Dirham. As a

Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC)

issued and regulated by the Central Bank

of the UAE, the Digital Dirham is poised to

redefine how individuals and businesses

interact with money. Unlike decentralised

cryptocurrencies, it offers the stability of

state backing combined with the efficiency,

security, and convenience of digital

payments. From everyday purchases and

utility bills to cross-border remittances and

financial planning, the currency is designed

to make transactions smarter, faster, and

more inclusive. Its integration into daily

life will play a pivotal role in supporting

the UAE’s broader vision of a cashless

and digitally empowered economy.


The introduction of the Digital

Dirham represents a transformative

step in the UAE’s financial

evolution. Spearheaded by the Central

Bank of the UAE (CBUAE), this Central

Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) aims

to revolutionise how people interact

with money. Unlike decentralised

cryptocurrencies, the Digital Dirham

is government-backed, fully regulated,

and built to integrate seamlessly

into the national financial system.

For individuals and businesses alike,

it promises to improve how they pay,

save, and send money while fostering

greater efficiency, transparency, and

financial inclusion.

Simplifying Everyday Transactions

One of the most immediate effects

of the Digital Dirham will be seen in

daily payments. Whether buying groceries,

paying utility bills, or booking

transport, consumers will be able to

make real-time payments through

smartphones or digital wallets. The

Digital Dirham eliminates the need for

intermediaries such as card networks

or third-party payment providers by

enabling direct, secure, and instant

transactions.

This shift not only accelerates

transaction speed but also reduces

processing costs. For consumers, it

means more convenient payments

without additional fees. For merchants,

especially small and medium-sized

enterprises (SMEs), it ensures faster

settlements and lower overheads. The

efficiency of blockchain or distributed

ledger infrastructure further guarantees

improved traceability and fraud resistance

in everyday commerce.

Enhancing Financial Inclusion

The Digital Dirham also holds the

potential to bridge gaps in financial

access. Residents without access to

traditional banking services will be able

to participate in the formal economy

through digital wallets linked to CBDC

accounts. These wallets can be accessed

via smartphones, and in some cases,

even through feature phones using

QR codes or biometric identification.

By enabling broader participation

in the financial system, the Digital

Dirham supports the UAE’s financial

inclusion agenda. Migrant workers, for

instance, will benefit significantly, as

they can hold, send, or spend Digital

Dirhams securely without needing a

traditional bank account. The result

is a more inclusive economy where

unbanked or underbanked populations

are empowered to save, transact, and

access financial services.

Smarter Ways to Save

Unlike physical cash, which is susceptible

to loss or theft, Digital Dirhams

offer a safer and more transparent

saving mechanism. Stored securely

in digital wallets under the oversight

of the central bank, these assets are

protected from inflationary manipulation

and can even be programmed for

specific uses. For example, wallets

could be designed to restrict the use

of Digital Dirhams to particular categories

such as education, healthcare,

or rent payments.

Moreover, the programmable nature

of CBDCs opens the door to intelligent

saving solutions. Smart contracts can

enable features such as automatic

round-ups, savings targets, or even

micro-investments based on consumer

preferences. As these tools become

more widespread, users will find it

easier to build financial discipline and

long-term stability.

Transforming Domestic Remittances

The UAE has a large expatriate population,

and with it comes a significant

volume of remittance activity. Today’s

cross-border payments often involve

multiple intermediaries, long processing

times, and high service fees.

The Digital Dirham can dramatically

enhance the speed and affordability

of remittance services.

Through digital wallets and blockchain

integration, users will be able

to send funds directly and securely to

their families abroad at lower costs.

Partnerships between the CBUAE and

international payment networks will

allow for interoperability with other

countries’ digital currencies or fiat

systems, improving global payment

connectivity. In the long term, this

could reduce reliance on traditional

remittance corridors and enable more

transparent cross-border financial

flows.

Increasing Trust and Transparency

One of the defining characteristics of

the Digital Dirham is its transparency.

Since transactions are recorded on

a tamper-proof digital ledger, they

provide a clear audit trail that can

significantly reduce financial crime.

For governments and regulators, this

improves the ability to detect and deter

money laundering, tax evasion, and

illicit financing.

The currency is backed by the CBUAE

The launch of our Digital

Dirham strategy is a key

milestone in the evolution

of money and payments

in the UAE. It will support

financial inclusion,

improve payment

efficiency, and position

the UAE as a leader in

digital finance.”

H.E. Khaled Mohamed Balama, Governor,

Central Bank of the UAE

and is designed to be stable and immune

to the volatility commonly seen

in cryptocurrencies. For the average

user, this means having confidence

that one Digital Dirham will retain its

value and purchasing power, just like

its physical counterpart.

The Digital Dirham is more than a

technological upgrade; it represents

a cultural and financial shift towards

smarter living. As the UAE continues

to embrace digital transformation,

this central bank-backed currency will

become a key enabler of efficiency.


Infographic

Snapshot: UAE Expat 2025

Investment Personas

How 88% of the UAE’s population invests, saves, and grows wealth

Why Understanding Expat Investment

Behaviour Matters

The UAE’s expat investor base is diverse and

dynamic, ranging from first-time savers to

seasoned global investors. Their financial goals

are shaped by both local opportunities and obligations

back home, making their investment

approach unique.

Numbers:

• Total Population (2025 est.): 10.5 million

• Expatriate Share: 88.2%

Top Nationalities:

Indian Pakistan Bangladesh Filipine British USA Egypt Lebanon South Africa

Most Popular Asset Classes (2025)

01

Real Estate

• Off-plan properties

in Dubai, Abu Dhabi,

and Sharjah

• Rental yield and visa-linked

investments drive interest

• Growing preference

for developer-backed

payment plans

04

Precious Metals

• Gold remains a favourite

among certain nationalities

for security and tradition

• Rise of digital gold

platforms and goldbacked

savings plans

02

Global ETFs and Mutual Funds

• Preferred for diversification,

lower fees,

and passive returns

• Often accessed via fintech

apps or offshore advisors

05

ESG & Ethical Investments

• Clean energy, green

bonds, ethical ETFs

• Gaining popularity

among younger expats

and women investors

03

Cryptocurrency

• Bitcoin and stablecoins

remain top choices

• Some interest in Ethereum

and Solana

• Used both as speculative

assets and longterm

stores of value

06

IPO Participation

• Surge in local IPOs (e.g.,

DEWA, Salik, Parkin)

has increased retail

investor activity

• Many expats now include

IPO participation as part of

annual portfolio planning


Digital Tools Driving the Investment Shift

Fintech apps are now the default starting point for most new investors

Strong growth is seen in platforms like:

for ETFs and long-term plans for automated portfolios for halal investing

for self-directed trading

for crypto trading

Key Investor Motivations in 2025

Many expats are now settling

in for the long haul, making

the UAE a key part of their

retirement and property plans.

Cross-border priorities still

shape many expats’ financial

decisions, especially

from South Asian

and African regions.

worth and upper-middle-income

expats toward property

and business ownership.

There’s rising interest in

building income through

dividends, rent, or digital

business ventures.

Educational planning is a dominant

goal for families, especially

as tuition costs continue to rise

in private international schools.

Closing Insight

Expat investors in the UAE are growing more informed, connected, and intentional. They’re

blending digital tools, traditional goals, and cross-border ambitions to craft personalised

wealth journeys and reshape the region’s investment landscape in the process.


Insurance


Expatriates in the UAE explore personalised protection plans to ensure financial peace of mind abroad.

Mind the Gap:

Insurance &

Protection Products

Expats Still Need

UAE-Based Expats are Increasingly Securing

Insurance to Safeguard their Future and Build

Financial Stability.

The United Arab Emirates remains one

of the most sought-after destinations for

expatriates, offering a high standard of

living, safety, and economic opportunity.

While the UAE provides access to worldclass

healthcare and tax-free income,

many expats are now recognising the

value of strengthening their financial

security. From life and health cover to

income protection and retirement savings,

the insurance sector in the UAE is

evolving rapidly. Expats are becoming

more proactive, seeking solutions that

protect their families, careers, and longterm

aspirations. By addressing gaps in

coverage and planning, they are building

more resilient financial futures.


Across the UAE, life insurance

is becoming an essential part

of financial planning for expatriates.

More individuals and families

are choosing policies that provide

security in the event of unforeseen

circumstances. Whether supporting

children’s education, repaying loans,

or ensuring income continuity for loved

ones, life cover offers a vital layer of

protection.

Financial advisers and insurance

providers are now offering tailored

policies that fit the diverse needs

of expatriates. These include term

plans, whole-of-life options, and investment-linked

products that allow expats

to combine protection with long-term

savings. Increasing awareness, digital

platforms, and simplified onboarding

processes have also made life insurance

more accessible than ever before.

Comprehensive Protection:

Life, Health, and Critical Illness

Coverage

The UAE mandates basic health insurance

in several emirates, but many

expatriates are opting to upgrade to

more comprehensive packages. Enhanced

plans offer wider coverage,

including outpatient services, maternity

care, dental and optical treatment, and

mental health support.

With a growing focus on holistic

well-being, expats are taking advantage

of top-up insurance plans that

reflect their personal and family health

needs. Several insurers now offer

wellness benefits, annual check-ups,

and chronic condition management,

which support preventive healthcare

and reduce financial pressure during

illness. Employers are also increasingly

including premium health cover as part

of their benefit packages, contributing

to stronger overall protection.

Critical illness and disability insurance

are gaining attention among

expatriates, particularly among those

with dependents or working in physically

demanding roles. These policies

provide financial support if the insured

is diagnosed with a serious illness or

experiences a disability that prevents

them from working.

Rather than relying solely on medical

insurance, more expats are opting for

coverage that includes lump-sum payouts

in the event of a health crisis. This

financial cushion enables individuals

We are seeing stronger

demand from expatriates

keen to protect their

families and long-term

goals.”

Ebrahim Al Zaabi, Director General, Insurance

Authority, UAE

to focus on recovery without sacrificing

their lifestyle or long-term plans.

Providers are responding by offering

flexible products with broad illness

definitions and options that complement

existing healthcare coverage.

Income, Retirement, and Education:

Planning for Long-Term Stability

In today’s dynamic job market, many

expatriates are choosing to secure their

income through protection plans that

offer support during periods of illness,

redundancy, or temporary inability to

work. Income protection insurance

is designed to replace a portion of

earnings, helping individuals maintain

their standard of living while they get

back on their feet.

While not yet widespread, awareness

of income protection products is

steadily growing. Financial consultants

and digital platforms are making these

solutions easier to understand and

more accessible. With many expats

supporting families both in the UAE

and abroad, maintaining a steady income

has become a key component of

responsible financial planning.

Retirement planning is a major

consideration for long-term expatriates

in the UAE, particularly as the

country does not offer a state pension

for non-citizens. Although the end-ofservice

gratuity system provides some

support, it is rarely sufficient to sustain

a comfortable retirement.

To address this, expats are turning

to pension plans, endowment policies,

and investment-linked insurance that

allow them to build retirement wealth

over time. Several international providers

offer portable plans, ensuring

that savings can follow expatriates if

they relocate. The UAE government

has also introduced a savings scheme

for private sector employees, reflecting

growing institutional focus on long-term

financial wellbeing.

With education costs on the rise,

expat parents are increasingly investing

in insurance plans that support future

academic goals. Education savings

plans, often linked to life insurance,

help parents accumulate funds in a

structured way. These products are

designed to mature when the child

reaches higher education age, easing

the financial burden on the family.

In addition, legacy planning is gaining

popularity. Life insurance can be used

as a tool to pass on wealth efficiently,

ensuring that loved ones are taken care

of even in the absence of the primary

income earner. Advisors are helping

families craft personalised plans that

balance current needs with future

ambitions.

Digital Transformation and Regulatory

Confidence in the UAE Market

The insurance landscape in the UAE

is undergoing a digital transformation.

From policy comparison tools and mobile

apps to paperless claims processing,

the customer experience is becoming

more streamlined and transparent.

These advancements are particularly

valuable for expatriates, who benefit

from quick access to information and

services regardless of their location.

Regulators are also playing a key

role. The UAE Central Bank and the

Insurance Authority have issued clear

guidelines to improve consumer protection

and ensure fair practices. This

has contributed to growing confidence

among expatriates, who now have

more clarity and choice when selecting

insurance products, taking significant

steps to protect their financial future.


Healthcare News

Abu Dhabi Activates Regional Vaccine Hub with First Shipment Arrival

Abu Dhabi’s Department of Health

has officially activated the region’s

first vaccine distribution

hub, receiving its initial shipment of

over 20 vaccine types for adults and

children. Located in Kezad and operated

by Rafed, a PureHealth subsidiary, the

facility was developed in partnership

with DoH, ADIO, GSK, AD Ports Group,

Etihad Cargo, and KEZAD Group.

Zulekha Healthcare

Group Chooses Oracle

for Comprehensive

Digital Transformation

Zulekha Healthcare Group has

partnered with Oracle to deploy

an integrated digital infrastructure

consisting of Oracle Health Foundation

EHR, Oracle Fusion Cloud ERP,

and other cloud applications aimed

at improving clinical and operational

workflows. This initiative enhances

patient lifecycle management, supply

chain, pharmacy, finance, procurement,

and facility operations. The unified

system enables real‐time, AI‐powered

insights and data-driven decision-making,

promoting efficiency, compliance,

and cost control. Mastek serves as the

implementation partner, integrating the

new EHR and ERP platforms with the

group’s Hospital Information System

(HIS) and Revenue Cycle Management

(RCM). Salesforce Health Cloud and

Marketing Cloud will complement the

solution by delivering a unified 360°

view of patient interactions to boost

engagement, reduce no‐shows, and

personalize outreach. The transformation

reinforces Zulekha’s “Patient

First” ethos and positions them as a

leading digital healthcare innovator

in the UAE.

Equipped with advanced cold‐chain

logistics and integrated with Etihad

Cargo’s PharmaLife network to over

100 international destinations, the

hub significantly boosts global health

security and regional vaccine access.

As GSK’s first distribution centre in

the Middle East and fourth globally, it

is a cornerstone of Abu Dhabi’s HELM

life‐sciences initiative.

Burjeel Launches Advanced Day Surgery Centre

in Al Dhahir, Al Ain

Burjeel Holdings has launched

its state-of-the-art Day Surgery

Centre in Al Dhahir, Al Ain —

the first facility of its kind in the area,

inaugurated by H.H. Sheikh Nahyan bin

Zayed Al Nahyan on 18 May 2024. The

Centre provides integrated day‐surgery

services across specialties such as

orthopaedics, gastroenterology, ENT,

urology, dermatology, ophthalmology,

general surgery, pain management,

gynaecology, plastic surgery, paediatrics,

family and internal medicine,

and dental surgery, supported

Mubadala Investment Company

has made a significant reinvestment

in PCI Pharma Services, a

leading global pharmaceutical logistics

and contract manufacturing provider.

Partnering with private equity firm Kohlberg

& Company, the move strengthens

Mubadala’s role in expanding PCI’s

global capabilities across sterile fill-finish,

clinical trial logistics, packaging,

and drug development services. With

by physiotherapy and rehabilitation

departments. Equipped with advanced

diagnostic and treatment technologies

and staffed by board-certified doctors,

the facility enables efficient surgical

care without requiring overnight

stays. It enhances healthcare access

for communities within Al Dhahir,

Um Ghafah, Mezyad and surrounding

areas. As part of Burjeel’s commitment

to community wellness, the centre

complements their existing Al Ain

facilities, ensuring seamless referrals

for more complex cases.

Mubadala Increases Stake in PCI Pharma

Services to Drive Healthcare Growth

PCI operating over 30 GMP-certified

facilities employing around 4,300 staff,

the reinvestment aims to accelerate

the company’s expansion into Asia

and Europe and support the rise of

biologics and specialized therapies.

The partnership underscores Mugadala’s

strategy to build long-term value

in the healthcare supply chain sector

and support innovation-led healthcare

manufacturing.


Burjeel Opens Dubai’s First Dedicated Interventional Pain Management Centre

Burjeel Hospital for Advanced

Surgery in Dubai has launched

the first dedicated Center for

Interventional Pain Management in

Dubai and the Northern Emirates.

Led by Dr. Manish Raj, a board-certified

specialist in interventional spine

and pain medicine, the centre offers

imaging-guided, minimally invasive

treatments for chronic spine, joint,

nerve, and cancer-related pain. The

multidisciplinary facility combines endoscopic

spine surgery, nerve blocks,

implants such as spinal cord stimulators

and intrathecal pumps, with physiotherapy

and oncology support. Tailored for

conditions like sciatica, degenerative

disc disease, CRPS, migraines, and

post-surgical pain, it offers personalised,

evidence-based care designed to reduce

recovery time and improve long-term

quality of life. This launch marks a

significant healthcare advancement in

addressing complex pain in the UAE.

Burjeel Holdings

Buys Medeor Hospital

Building in Bur Dubai

for AED 170M

Burjeel Holdings has acquired

the Medeor 24×7 Hospital

property in Bur Dubai for

AED 170 million, taking ownership

and eliminating a long-term lease liability

of AED 343 million across the

next 15 years . The centrally located

facility, near BurJuman, has served as

a multi‐specialty community hospital

for over a decade. The acquisition

now gives Burjeel complete operational

control and flexibility for future

expansion or reconfiguration of

services without landlord restrictions

. John Sunil, CEO of Burjeel Holdings,

emphasised that this move supports

long-term value creation and fortifies

the group’s footprint in Dubai and the

Northern Emirates. The deal strengthens

Burjeel’s strategic asset base and

operational resilience as demand for

healthcare services in the region continues

to grow.

Burjeel Holdings Acquires PhysioTrio,

Expanding Saudi Physiotherapy Footprint

Burjeel Arabia, a subsidiary of

Burjeel Holdings, has acquired

Riyadh’s PhysioTrio Physiotherapy

Center outright, integrating

it into the PhysioTherabia network.

PhysioTrio is known for sports rehabilitation

and holds contracts with

the Saudi Ministry of Sport. With this

acquisition, PhysioTherabia now operates

30 centres across the Kingdom

and targets expansion to 60 facilities

. The move builds on Burjeel’s earlier

purchase of Makkah’s Specialist

Physiotherapy Center in 2024 for

SAR 6.5 million, which saw a 2.1×

revenue rise from 2021 to 2023 . This

strategy aligns with Burjeel’s broader

Saudi growth vision and purpose to

enhance high-quality rehabilitation

and wellness services within Vision

According to JLL’s EMEA Life

Sciences Industry Perspective

and Cluster Report, the Middle

East pharmaceutical market, including

GCC countries, is projected to reach

USD 36 billion by 2028, growing at a

compound annual growth rate (CAGR)

of 7.7% from 2023. Growth is driven by

aggressive government investments in

R&D, local generics and biosimilar manufacturing,

digital health innovation, and

life sciences infrastructure development

across hubs such as Dubai Science Park

and NEOM. Demand is also spurred by

rising chronic disease prevalence, aging

populations, and healthcare accessibility

reforms within GCC healthcare strategies.

The increased need for specialized

real estate, labs, manufacturing parks,

and distribution facilities, is reshaping

2030 frameworks. The consolidation

of sports and rehabilitation expertise

positions Burjeel as a key healthcare

player in the region.

GCC Pharma Market Poised to Reach $36B by 2028

the region’s life sciences real estate

landscape. Strategic alignment with

Saudi Vision 2030 and UAE’s healthcare

transformation programs is accelerating

local production and innovation.


Economy


UAE’s thriving skyline and infrastructure reflect its accelerating economic growth and diversified development strategy.

CBUAE’s 2026

Forecast: Why the UAE

Economy is Growing

Faster than Expected

CBUAE Raises 2026 Growth Forecast as Non-

Oil Sectors and Investment Reforms Boost

Economic Momentum.

The Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE)

has raised its economic growth forecast

for 2026, citing stronger performance

across both oil and non-oil sectors. Real

GDP is now expected to expand by 6.2

percent, surpassing previous estimates.

This revision reflects the country’s successful

diversification strategies, robust

trade and tourism activity, and sustained

investor confidence. With major reforms

in fiscal policy, innovation, and human

capital development, the UAE is positioning

itself for long-term, broad-based

growth. As regional and global uncertainties

persist, the UAE’s economic model

demonstrates resilience, adaptability, and

strategic foresight, strengthening its role

as a leading economic force in the GCC.


The UAE economy is outpacing

earlier predictions, with the Central

Bank of the UAE (CBUAE)

revising its 2026 outlook upward. Recent

updates from the CBUAE show that

the country’s real GDP is forecast to

expand by 6.2 percent in 2026, a notable

revision from previous estimates. This

stronger-than-expected performance

reflects a confluence of non-oil growth,

policy effectiveness, regional stability,

and global investment inflows. As the

country continues to implement reforms

and diversify its economic base, the

outlook remains optimistic, both in

the short and medium term.

Momentum in the Non-Oil Sector

A critical driver of the revised forecast

is the resilience of the UAE’s nonoil

economy, which has consistently

outperformed expectations over the

past two years. Sectors such as real

estate, tourism, manufacturing, construction,

and financial services are

playing a key role in pushing growth

beyond the oil-dependent framework.

The non-oil GDP is now expected to

rise by 5.8 percent in 2026, supported

by long-term strategic initiatives such

as the UAE Centennial 2071 and the

National Industrial Strategy.

The property market in Dubai and

Abu Dhabi continues to surge, buoyed

by both regional demand and foreign

direct investment. Hospitality and

retail are showing strong recovery

with increased tourist arrivals and

high consumer spending. Industrial

activity, particularly around logistics

and tech-driven manufacturing, is

also expanding rapidly in response to

favourable regulations and infrastructure

development.

Oil Sector Recovery and Production

Growth

Although the non-oil economy is taking

centre stage, the oil sector still

contributes significantly to the overall

outlook. Following OPEC+ agreements

and a steady global demand for energy,

the UAE has gradually increased its oil

production, which is expected to stabilise

at higher levels by 2026. CBUAE

anticipates the oil sector will grow by

7.1 percent in 2026, rebounding from flat

or contracting levels in earlier years.

The implementation of advanced

technologies in upstream operations

and enhanced energy infrastructure has

The UAE’s revised

growth outlook reflects

our unwavering

commitment to

economic diversification,

innovation, and long-term

sustainability.”

His Excellency Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri,

Minister of Economy

contributed to operational efficiency

and cost optimisation. This has made

UAE crude oil increasingly competitive

in global markets, particularly

in Asia. Additionally, national energy

strategies such as the UAE Energy

Strategy 2050 are also supporting a

shift towards cleaner and more sustainable

production practices without

undermining output.

Robust Fiscal Management and

Investment Climate

One of the defining strengths of the

UAE economy is its proactive and conservative

fiscal stance. Despite global

volatility, inflationary pressures, and

changing interest rate environments, the

UAE has maintained macroeconomic

stability. The CBUAE has implemented

prudent monetary policies aligned

with US Federal Reserve shifts while

also ensuring ample liquidity in the

banking system.

In parallel, investor confidence has

been bolstered by several economic

reforms including liberalised visa rules,

full foreign ownership laws, and a push

for digital transformation. The country

has emerged as a top destination

for entrepreneurs and international

businesses seeking a base in the Middle

East. The UAE has also signed a

series of Comprehensive Economic

Partnership Agreements (CEPAs) with

nations such as India, Indonesia, and

Turkey, enhancing its access to global

trade routes and markets.

Trade and Tourism Driving

Resilience

The UAE’s position as a global trading

hub continues to pay dividends. Nonoil

foreign trade reached new highs in

2025, and the outlook for 2026 remains

strong with further integration into

global supply chains. The expansion of

free zones and digital trade corridors

is facilitating greater trade volume

and speed.

Tourism is another bright spot, with

Dubai and Abu Dhabi leading regional

recovery. Mega events, global exhibitions,

and sports tourism are drawing

millions of visitors annually. Emirates

and Etihad Airways continue to expand

their route networks, enhancing connectivity

and reinforcing the UAE’s position

as a transit and leisure destination.

Technological Transformation and

Green Growth

CBUAE’s 2026 outlook also takes into

account the rapid pace of innovation

across the UAE’s public and private

sectors. The country is investing heavily

in artificial intelligence, fintech,

and clean energy. Key projects such

as the Mohammed bin Rashid Solar

Park and the Barakah Nuclear Energy

Plant highlight the commitment to

sustainable growth.

Start-up ecosystems in Abu Dhabi’s

Hub71 and Dubai’s DIFC Innovation

Hub are attracting global attention.

These initiatives are helping to cultivate

home-grown ventures while attracting

international talent.

The UAE’s upwardly revised economic

forecast for 2026 is the result

of strategic diversification, sound

policymaking, and forward-looking

investments. With non-oil sectors

strengthening, the energy industry

adapting to modern demands, and

technology and trade advancing rapidly,

the country is charting a path of

sustainable and inclusive growth.


Local News

Dubai’s DTC Sees 18% Rise in Q2 2025 Revenue, Totals $171M

Dubai’s DTC has reported robust

financial results for the second

quarter of 2025, posting a revenue

of USD 171 million. This marks

an 18% increase compared to the same

period in 2024, reflecting the company’s

strong operational performance

and growing market presence. The

impressive revenue growth was largely

attributed to strong results across its

core business units, alongside a surge

in demand for its transportation and

logistics services across the UAE.

In addition to revenue gains, DTC

also recorded a notable increase in

profitability. Net profit for Q2 2025

reached USD 45 million, representing

a 12% year-on-year rise. The company

highlighted that the positive momentum

was driven by streamlined cost

structures, enhanced digital integration,

and continued customer satisfaction

initiatives that helped boost service

uptake and increased efficiency.

Mashreq Reports 14%

Decline in H1 2025

Profit Due to Higher

Taxes

Dubai-listed Mashreq has reported

a decline in net earnings despite

strong operating income, primarily

due to increased tax obligations.

The bank recorded a total net profit of

AED 3.47 billion (USD 945.4 million)

for the first half of the year, reflecting

a 14% decrease compared to the same

period last year. Net profit for the

second quarter of 2025 amounted to

AED 1.68 billion, representing a 16%

year-on-year decline. The reduction in

net profit was largely attributed to a

“significantly higher tax burden” following

the UAE’s adoption of the 15%

global minimum tax, the bank stated

on Tuesday. Additionally, provision

charges rose to AED 245 million.

Mashreq noted that its income tax

expense stood at AED 604 million in

H1 2025, up 35% year-on-year, which

affected net profit after tax.

UAE Corporate Tax: July 31 Deadline to Avoid

AED 10,000 Penalty

The UAE’s Federal Tax Authority

(FTA) has reiterated its call for

businesses to register for Corporate

Tax by Wednesday, July 31, 2025,

warning that failure to do so will result

in a penalty of AED 10,000 (USD 2,723)

for late registration. The warning applies

to Corporate Taxpayers and certain

exempt persons whose first tax period

coincides with the 2024 calendar year.

The FTA has linked the registration

deadline to the Penalty Waiver Initiative,

Arab Bank Group reported solid

results for the first half of 2025,

with 6% increase in net income

after tax reaching $535.3 million as

compared to $502.8 million for the

same period last year. The Group

maintained its strong capital base with

a total equity of $12.5 billion.

The Group’s Assets grew by 9% to

reach $75.2 billion, loans of $39.8 billion

showed a net growth by 6%, and

deposits grew by 9% to reach $55.3

billion. Commenting on the bank’s performance,

Mr. Sabih Masri, Chairman

of the Board of Directors stated that

the strong results achieved in the first

half of 2025 are a clear testament to the

effectiveness of the bank’s strategy and

the resilience of its operating model. He

noted that despite ongoing economic

headwinds and regional geopolitical

which exempts eligible entities from

late penalties, provided they submit

their registration applications and file

their Tax Returns via the ‘EmaraTax’

platform by the end of July. According

to the FTA, more than 33,900 registrants

have already benefited from the waiver

initiative, which is aimed at easing the

transition into the new Corporate Tax

regime. It applies only to the first Tax

Period of eligible taxable persons or

exempt persons.

Arab Bank Group Profits Grow by 6% to $535M

for the First Half of 2025

uncertainties, the bank continued to

prudently grow its operations and

deliver sustainable growth and healthy

returns for shareholders.


Dubai RTA Launches Phase Two of Marine Station Upgrades at Five Locations

Dubai’s Roads and Transport

Authority (RTA) has launched

the second phase of a project

to upgrade waiting areas at marine

transport stations across Dubai. The

phase covers five stations: Al Fahidi,

Baniyas, Al Seef, Sheikh Zayed Road,

and Bluewaters. The project seeks

to enhance customer service by

providing a comfortable and modern

environment that enriches the marine

transport experience. The project

supports RTA’s strategy to promote

customer happiness through services

that foster sustainability, convenience,

and quality of life. The development

includes the installation of air-conditioning

systems, waiting areas for

customers and People of Determination,

and enhancements implemented

in line with international standards.

The upgrades aim to elevate customer

satisfaction through architectural

concepts that celebrate cultural and

heritage identity.

Ministry of Finance

Achieves 96.57% Customer

Happiness in H1

2025

The UAE Ministry of Finance

(MoF) announced exceptional

performance in customer satisfaction

for the first half of 2025,

achieving a 96.57% rating in the Customer

Happiness Index. The ministry’s

outstanding results were largely driven

by the success of its digital advisory

platforms and high-performing call

centre operations. According to key

performance indicators, 97.3% of customer

requests were resolved on the

first call. The ministry also reported

improvements across all service metrics,

surpassing many of its targets

including faster request processing,

shorter wait times, and enhanced call

handling efficiency. These advancements

underscore MoF’s ongoing

strategy to enhance customer-centric

governance through digital transformation

and operational excellence.

The ministry’s quality performance

index rose to 90.92%, exceeding its

80% target and improving upon the

88% achieved during the same period

in 2024.

Dubai Chambers Launches Directory for Family

Business Advisors

Dubai Chambers introduced the

Gulf region’s inaugural directory

dedicated to family business advisors,

featuring 56 expert consultants

focused on supporting family-owned

companies in overcoming obstacles

and fostering long-term success.

The directory is designed to offer

family enterprises convenient access

to trusted advisors covering diverse

areas, including governance, succession

planning, wealth management, and legal

issues. This project is timely, given

Arada Developments LLC (“Arada”),

rated B1 by Moody’s and B+ by

Fitch, has successfully completed

the issuance of a $450 million Sukuk,

which has been listed on the London

Stock Exchange and the Nasdaq Dubai.

The five-year fixed rate RegS Sukuk

issuance, rated BB- by Fitch and B1 by

Moody’s, was priced with a coupon of

that family-run businesses make up a

large portion of the UAE’s economy

and encounter distinctive challenges

that demand expert advice. Saeed Al

Awadi, Dubai Chambers’ CEO, emphasised

the critical need to equip family

businesses with appropriate support to

secure their longevity and prosperity

across generations. The creation of

the directory involved collaboration

with several important stakeholders

and specialists in the family business

domain.

Arada Secures $450M Sukuk, Oversubscribed

Four times in Return

7.150%, tightening 47.5bps- 60bps from

the initial price guidance of 7.625%-

7.750% for a spread of 317 bps over US

Treasuries, for the tightest reoffer yield

ever achieved by Arada. The proceeds

of the issuance will be used for a tender

offer of up to $100 million on Arada’s

existing Sukuk maturing 2027, with the

balance for general corporate purposes.


Taxation


More Indians explore UAE Golden Visa for residency, tax flexibility, and business growth benefits

Let’s Understand if

UAE Golden Visa Cut

Your Tax Bill? Experts

Weigh In

Financial Experts Weigh The Implications Of

The UAE Golden Visa On Indian Taxpayers And

Residency Rules

As the UAE strengthens its reputation

as a global financial and innovation hub,

its Golden Visa programme has become

an increasingly attractive proposition for

Indian professionals, entrepreneurs, and

high-net-worth individuals. Promising tenyear

renewable residency and access to a

zero-income-tax regime, the visa is viewed

not only as a lifestyle upgrade but also

as a potential tool for strategic tax planning.

However, while many associate it

with automatic tax relief, experts caution

that the benefits depend on more than

just holding the visa. Understanding tax

residency rules, relocation criteria, and

legal obligations is essential for those

aiming to optimise their financial position

while maintaining compliance with

Indian tax laws.


The UAE Golden Visa has been

positioned as a game-changing

residency tool for global citizens

seeking long-term stability in a

low-tax jurisdiction. Introduced to

attract skilled professionals, investors,

and entrepreneurs, it offers a 10-year

renewable residency without the need

for a local sponsor. The visa covers

a wide range of categories including

real estate investors, business owners,

doctors, scientists, and individuals

earning a high salary. For many Indians,

particularly those in business or technology

sectors, the UAE’s proximity,

world-class infrastructure, and liberal

economic policies make it an attractive

destination.

The benefits of the Golden Visa

extend beyond mere residency. It

allows for complete ownership of

The UAE’s residency

programmes are

designed to attract global

talent and investment,

supporting long-term

economic sustainability

while offering a stable,

low-tax environment

for individuals and

businesses.”

His Excellency Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri,

UAE Minister of Economy

businesses, access to top-tier financial

services, and freedom to move in and

out of the country without disruption

to visa status. It also supports family

sponsorships, which have made it popular

among those looking to relocate

permanently. Furthermore, the UAE’s

absence of income tax, capital gains

tax, or inheritance tax offers strong

financial incentives. These aspects

are often cited as contributing factors

to the increased interest among

Indian high-net-worth individuals and

professionals.

However, the appeal of the visa is

not limited to the elite. According to

recent reports, the cost of obtaining the

Golden Visa through real estate investment

or skilled employment routes is

now comparatively low. For instance,

a property investment of AED 2 million

is sufficient to apply under one of the

most popular categories. Others can

qualify through employment contracts

with monthly incomes starting from

AED 30,000. As one financial expert

noted, this cost is “less than a luxury

car” yet offers benefits for an entire

family over a decade. In essence, the

Golden Visa is being reframed not as

an indulgence but as a strategic life

and wealth move.

Despite its advantages, the visa does

not in itself alter one’s tax obligations

to India or other countries of origin.

The key question many potential applicants

face is whether this prestigious

residency can also serve as a tax planning

mechanism and if so, under what

conditions.

Tax Implications: Residency Must

Align with Relocation

A common misconception is that acquiring

the UAE Golden Visa instantly

transforms one’s tax status. In truth, tax

residency is determined by the number

of days physically spent in a country and

the nature of financial and familial ties

maintained there. According to Indian

tax law, a person is considered a tax

resident if they spend 182 days or more

in India during a financial year. For

those with taxable income exceeding

₹15 lakh, this threshold lowers to 120

days if certain conditions are met. This

means that holding a UAE visa does

not exempt one from Indian taxation

if they continue to reside in India or

retain strong financial roots there.

To qualify as a Non-Resident Indian

(NRI) for tax purposes, a genuine shift in

residence is required. This involves not

just spending most of the year abroad,

but also showing a transfer of one’s

financial, professional, and social base.

In practice, this could mean relocating

one’s family, managing business operations

from the UAE, receiving income

in UAE bank accounts, and reducing

property or financial dependencies in

India. Without these adjustments, tax

authorities may continue to consider

the individual an Indian tax resident.

The India–UAE Double Tax Avoidance

Agreement (DTAA) can provide

relief in cases of dual residency. It ensures

that individuals do not face double

taxation on the same income. However,

access to the DTAA’s benefits relies on

meeting strict tax residency criteria.

UAE residents must demonstrate that

they are tax residents of the UAE by

obtaining a tax residency certificate and

proving economic substance within the

country. The certificate is issued based

on consistent stays and demonstrable

income activity in the UAE.

Experts caution that superficial relocation,

where individuals maintain

substantial economic ties in India, is

unlikely to withstand regulatory scrutiny.

The Indian Income Tax Department

has become more vigilant in recent

years, particularly as cross-border

financial monitoring has improved.

Residency claims are now assessed

using a holistic view of lifestyle patterns,

income origin, business activity,

and even digital footprints.

Moreover, the UAE itself has introduced

new corporate tax regulations

that came into effect in 2023. While

personal income remains untaxed,

businesses must comply with the 9%

federal corporate tax introduced for entities

exceeding AED 375,000 in annual

profits. Therefore, even those setting

up operations in the UAE must plan

accordingly to remain compliant and

avoid potential legal and tax penalties.

It is also important to recognise that

tax rules can evolve. Indian regulators

are becoming increasingly cautious

about the misuse of residency privileges

for tax evasion.

While the UAE Golden Visa opens

doors to unparalleled lifestyle, business,

and financial advantages, the visa

may provide the framework for global

mobility and investment, along with

compliance with tax laws.


Corporate Results

TECOM Group

H1 Net profit: AED 737M

TECOM Group PJSC reported a strong

performance for the first half of 2025,

with net profit climbing 22% year-onyear

to AED 737 million, reflecting

the strength of its business model

and demand for high-quality assets.

The company’s revenue advanced

21% to AED 1.4 billion, supported by

increased rental income, strategic

acquisitions, and sustained demand

across its commercial, industrial, and

land lease portfolios. EBITDA also

grew significantly, rising 24% to AED

1.1 billion and pushing the margin to

an impressive 80%, highlighting operational

efficiency. Funds from operations

stood at AED 984 million, marking a 17%

increase compared to the same period

last year. Occupancy levels reached

95% across commercial and industrial

properties and an exceptional 99% for

land leases, showcasing the resilience

of the company’s portfolio and strong

market fundamentals.

Deyaar’s

H1 Net profit: AED 266.6M

Deyaar Development PJSC reported a

strong performance in the first half of

2025, with net profit before tax rising

31.6% year-on-year to AED 266.6 million,

compared to AED 202.6 million in the

same period of 2024. The company’s total

revenue increased by 39.2% to AED 925.4

million, up from AED 664.4 million, driven

by robust investor demand, positive

sentiment in Dubai’s real estate sector,

and efficient project delivery. Earnings

per share advanced 33.1% to 5.74 fils, compared

to 4.31 fils last year. Revenue from

other business segments also climbed

6.3% to AED 170 million, compared with

AED 159.1 million previously. For the

second quarter alone, net profit before tax

reached AED 146.8 million, up from AED

125.1 million, while total assets expanded

7.5% year-on-year to AED 7.34 billion.

First Abu Dhabi Bank

H1 Net Profit: AED 10.63B

First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) achieved

a record first-half net profit of AED

10.63B (USD 2.90B), marking a 26%

year-on-year increase and its strongest

six-month performance to date. This

growth was driven by higher fee and

trading income, alongside steady loan

expansion. Operating income rose 16%

to AED 18.31B, while profit before tax

climbed 29% to AED 12.83B. Earnings

per share advanced 27% to AED 0.93.

The bank’s return on tangible equity

reached 20.5%, exceeding both last

year’s 17.3% and its medium-term target

of over 16%. Net interest income

edged up 2% to AED 9.96B, whereas

non-interest income surged 41% to AED

8.35B, supported by a 25% rise in fees

and commissions and a 30% jump in

foreign exchange and investment income.

CEO Hana Al Rostamani credited

FAB’s scale, connectivity, and AI-driven

innovation for the milestone results.

Estithmar Holding

H1 Net Profit: QAR 465M

Estithmar Holding Q.P.S.C. has reported

strong financial results for the first half

of 2025, with net profit reaching QAR

465 million, almost doubling with a 97

per cent rise compared to the same

period in 2024. The Qatar-based diversified

investment company achieved

revenue of QAR 3.073 billion, an 87

per cent year-on-year increase, driven

by solid growth across its business

portfolio. Gross profit surged 134 per

cent to QAR 1.054 billion, while EBITDA

climbed 97 per cent to QAR 732 million,

reflecting enhanced operational efficiency.

Earnings per share rose to QAR

0.130, double the previous year’s level.

The company credited its remarkable

financial performance to international

expansion efforts across Saudi Arabia,

Iraq, Algeria, Libya, Maldives, Jordan,

and Kazakhstan.

Binghatti


Binghatti Holding Ltd reported a remarkable

performance in the first

half of 2025, achieving a net profit of

AED 1.82 billion, reflecting a 172 per

cent jump from AED 668 million in

the same period last year. The Dubaibased

luxury real estate developer also

posted total sales of AED 8.8 billion,

representing a 60 per cent year-onyear

increase, while revenue surged

189 per cent to AED 6.3 billion. The

company’s revenue backlog stood at

AED 12.5 billion as of June 30, 2025,

compared to AED 6.6 billion a year

earlier. Commenting on the results,

Muhammad BinGhatti, Chairman of

Binghatti Holding Ltd, said the strong

financial growth demonstrates market

confidence in its distinct model built

on architectural innovation, rapid

execution, and comprehensive value

creation across the property ecosystem.

Al Seer Marine

H1 Net Profit: AED 698M

Al Seer Marine Supplies and Equipment

Company reported a solid performance

in the first half (H1) of 2025, with

revenues rising 20.20% year-on-year

to AED 698 million. Operating profit

soared to AED 156 million, a sharp

increase from AED 13 million in H1 24,

driven by strong business momentum

and improved operational efficiency.

Gross profit climbed 81.7% to AED 89

million, compared to AED 49 million a

year earlier, with margins strengthening

from 8.40% to 12.70%. The improvement

was underpinned by revenue growth

and better asset utilisation, notably the

expansion of fleet operations with six

new MR chemical tankers. Commenting

on the results, Guy Neivens, CEO of

Al Seer Marine, said the company’s

“Investor First” strategy focuses on

smart capital restructuring and leveraging

robust assets to support portfolio

expansion.


Dubai Financial Market

H1 Net Profit: AED 777.1M

Dubai Financial Market (DFM) reported

strong financial results for the six months

ending 30 June 2025, posting a net profit

before tax of AED 777.1 million, a 298

per cent increase from the same period

in 2024. The sharp rise highlights investor

confidence and Dubai’s ongoing capital

market expansion. During this period,

the DFM General Index advanced 10.6

per cent, reflecting resilient domestic

performance and broader global capital

flows into growth-driven markets. Market

capitalisation also grew 9.7 per cent

year-on-year to AED 995 billion. Total

consolidated revenue surged 191 per cent

to AED 888.9 million, supported by higher

operating income, stronger investment

returns, and one-off gains from the sale

of an investment property. Expenses, excluding

tax, stood at AED 111.8 million

versus AED 110.3 million in H1 2024.

Alpha Dhabi


Alpha Dhabi Holding PJSC (“Alpha

Dhabi” or “the Group”), one of the

fastest-growing investment holding

companies in the MENA region listed

on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange

(ADX: AlphaDhabi), reported strong

financial results for the first half of

2025. Adjusted EBITDA surged to AED

8.7 billion, marking a 34 per cent yearon-year

increase, while group revenue

rose 23 per cent to AED 35.9 billion. The

company’s strategic execution across

core verticals and its ability to capture

high-value opportunities underscored

this growth momentum. Alpha Dhabi

maintained a solid financial position,

with total assets of AED 198.4 billion

and equity of AED 98.1 billion. Net

profit stood at AED 6.6 billion, broadly

in line with 2024, despite AED 1.4 billion

in reduced non-recurring accounting

adjustments tied to portfolio market

valuations.

Emirates Driving Company


Emirates Driving Company PJSC (ADX:

DRIVE) posted strong financial results

for the six-month period ended 30

June 2025, highlighting robust growth

and profitability alongside its ongoing

strategic transformation. Net profit

increased 33 per cent year-on-year to

AED 159 million, compared to AED 119

million in H1 2024. Revenue surged 101

per cent to AED 353 million, supported

by expanded training operations,

higher student enrolments, and the

full consolidation of Excellence Premier

Investment LLC. Commenting

on the performance, CEO Khaled Al

Shemeli emphasised that the results

demonstrate the strength of the company’s

vision, operational agility, and

investment in innovation, modern

technologies, and AI to enhance road

safety across the UAE. Emirates Driving

Company’s strong financials reflect

its disciplined execution, sustainable

growth strategy, and continued role in

advancing national mobility.

Commercial Bank

International


Commercial Bank International (CBI)

announced its financial results for the

first half of 2025, reporting steady

growth across key indicators. Pre-tax

net profit rose 4% year-on-year (YoY)

to AED 93 million in H1 25 from AED

90 million in H1 24, with Q2-25 profit

reaching AED 48 million. Operating

profit surged 134% YoY to AED 158

million in H1 25 compared to AED 68

million in H1 24, supported by gains

on non-core asset disposals, while

Q2-25 profit advanced 34% YoY to AED

45 million. Net loans and advances

increased 3% to AED 12.9 billion as

of June 2025, while customer deposits

grew 7% to AED 15.2 billion. The CASA

ratio improved 6% YoY, strengthening

the funding structure. Capital adequacy

also improved, rising from 15.3% in June

2024 to 17.6% in June 2025, reflecting

stronger equity.

PureHealth

H1’25 Net Profit: AED 13.6B

PureHealth Holding, one of the Middle

East’s largest healthcare groups, announced

on July 31 that its revenue for

the first half of 2025 rose 9% year-on-year

to AED 13.6 billion (USD 3.7 billion),

supported by strong performance across

its healthcare and insurance operations.

The Group’s earnings before interest,

tax, depreciation, and amortisation

(EBITDA) increased 8% year-on-year

to AED 2.3 billion, while net profit

reached AED 1.03 billion, reflecting a

2% gain compared to the same period

in 2024. In line with its strategy to

enhance efficiency and integrate acquired

assets, PureHealth is aligning its

businesses into two verticals: Care and

Cover. The ‘Care’ division comprises

hospitals, diagnostics, procurement,

and technology, whereas the ‘Cover’

vertical encompasses insurance activities,

creating a streamlined operating

model to strengthen the Group’s longterm

growth.

Arada

H1’25 Net Profit: AED 9.15B

Arada reported a tripling of sales in the

first half of 2025 to AED 9.15 billion,

fuelled by strong demand for premium

residential property across the UAE.

The master developer recorded a 336%

increase in the value of homes sold in

Dubai and Sharjah, supported by new

launches and rising interest in its master

planned communities. A total of 2,382

homes were sold during the period, up

247% year-on-year. Among the best-performing

projects were Akala, a precision

wellness destination launched in Dubai

in May, and Masaar 2, a 2,000-unit villa

and townhouse community in Sharjah,

which sold out within three hours of its

February release. HRH Prince Khaled

bin Alwaleed bin Talal, Executive Vice

Chairman, said the results underscore

Arada’s people-first approach in creating

meaningful long-term value.


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Finance World Magazine | Edition: August 2025

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