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ADX: The Rising Powerhouse of Regional Capital Markets

Branded Residences in Dubai Outperform Global Markets

Dubai: A Magnet for Global Millionaires

The ETF Revolution Is Coming to the Gulf

September 2025

I founded Wadan Developments with

a clear vision: to create intelligent, refined

homes which blend smart living, wellness,

and comfort, setting a new standard in

Dubai that goes beyond luxury.”

SALAH UDIN

Founder & CEO,

Wadan Developments

UNION

WELLNESS

& TECHNOLOGY

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One way to keep momentum going is

to constantly have greater goals.

Editor’s Note

Finance World’s September issue, “Capital Frontiers: How

the UAE is Redefining Global Finance and Investment,”

positions the Emirates as more than a regional hub, it

shows how the nation is actively shaping the next chapter of

global markets. From deepening US-Gulf investment ties to

the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange rising as a powerhouse,

capital flows are being redrawn with the UAE at the centre.

Innovation is also driving transformation: tokenised sukuk

are redefining Islamic finance, Dubai has moved to accept

cryptocurrency for government payments, and the country

is boldly aiming to make crypto its second-largest economic

sector.

Our cover story this month, “Union of Wellness & Technology:

Shaping the Next Generation of Dubai Living,” features an

exclusive interview with Salah Udin, Founder & CEO of Wadan

Developments. Emerging from Dubai’s highly competitive real

estate environment, Wadan Developments is charting a bold

new course, introducing a distinctive blend of intelligent,

wellness-focused residences that seamlessly integrate advanced

technology with holistic living. By challenging conventional

luxury models, this homegrown developer is setting the bar

for what tomorrow’s Dubai living can and should mean.

Meanwhile, investors are diversifying beyond gold into

Dubai’s booming property market, where developers are

increasingly taking construction in-house to capture greater

value. At the same time, tourism, Golden Visas, and lifestyledriven

strategies are weaving together business and lifestyle

in ways that attract global capital. This issue explores how

these forces are creating new “capital frontiers” and why

high-net-worth individuals and global investors alike see the

UAE as the place where the future of finance is being written.

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September 2025 www.thefinanceworld.com 7

Contents September

2025

COVER STORY

INVESTMENT

P32 | Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange:

The Rising Powerhouse of Regional

Capital Markets

Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange is transforming

into a regional powerhouse, driving innovation

and connectivity.

INTERVIEW

P24 | Union of Wellness & Technology

An Exclusive Interview with Salah Udin, Founder & CEO of Wadan

Developments who is pioneering a new category of wellnessfocused

residences that integrate cutting-edge technology.

INFOGRAPHIC

P22 | UAE as Global Capital Gateway

Breaking down UAE’s pivotal role connecting international investors and

redirecting worldwide capital flows.

P36 | Dubai: A Magnet for Millionaires

Manoj Sureka, CEO & Managing Partner of

Synergy Fin. Consulting reveals why Dubai is a key

destination for global high-net-worth families.

8 www.thefinanceworld.com September 2025

DIGITAL ASSETS

OPINION

P84 | What Dubai’s Move to Accept Digital

Currency for Government Fees Means

Unpacks how Dubai’s digital currency initiative is reshaping

government payments and local adoption.

OPINION

P74 | The ETF Revolution Is Coming to

the Gulf, Here’s Why It Will Be Different

Hasnae Taleb, Managing Partner of Mintiply

Capital, details the unique factors shaping the Gulf’s

imminent ETF boom.

WHEELS

P44 | Dubai’s Branded Residences Outperform

the Global Market

Louis Harding, CEO of Betterhomes, explains why Dubai’s branded

properties command world-leading prices and appeal.

P38 | McLaren 750S

Explores the McLaren 750S’s thrilling

performance and supercar engineering.


Real Estate

Source: Ai generated

Dubai’s vibrant skyline attracts investors seeking growth, stability, and long-term portfolio diversification.

From Gold to

Real Estate: Why

Diversifying is Crucial

for UAE Investors

UAE Investors are Increasingly Choosing Dubai

Apartments, Diversifying Portfolios beyond Gold

and Traditional Assets.

UAE investors are increasingly shifting

their attention from traditional assets

like gold to Dubai’s dynamic real estate

market, with apartments emerging as a

preferred choice. This trend reflects both

changing investment strategies and the

city’s growing appeal as a global property

hub. Offering competitive rental yields,

rising capital appreciation, and world-class

infrastructure, Dubai’s apartment sector

presents a compelling case for diversification.

Investors are also encouraged by

regulatory reforms and long-term development

plans that reinforce stability. As

portfolios evolve, Dubai apartments are

becoming central to strategies focused on

both wealth preservation and sustainable

future growth opportunities.


For generations, gold has been a

cornerstone of wealth preservation

for investors across the

United Arab Emirates. Its status as a

safe-haven asset made it the preferred

choice for safeguarding capital during

periods of uncertainty. However, as the

global economy evolves and Dubai’s

property market matures, a growing

number of UAE investors are shifting

their attention from precious metals

to real estate, particularly residential

apartments. This diversification trend

reflects changing economic priorities,

strong returns, and a belief that property

investment aligns more closely with the

emirate’s long-term growth trajectory.

Dubai’s real estate sector has witnessed

a remarkable resurgence in

recent years, attracting both domestic

and international buyers. Apartments,

in particular, are drawing investors who

see them as versatile assets that combine

rental income potential with capital

appreciation. Residential transactions

Dubai’s property market

offers enduring stability

and investor confidence

through strong regulation

and innovation.”

His Excellency Sultan Butti bin Mejren,

Director-General, Dubai Land Department

in Dubai have reached record highs, fuelled

by rising demand from expatriates,

global investors, and local buyers. For

UAE nationals, investing in apartments

offers a tangible alternative to gold,

an asset that not only holds value but

also generates steady returns.

The appeal of apartments lies in

their ability to produce regular income

streams. Unlike gold, which relies entirely

on market price fluctuations for

returns, property offers dual benefits:

rental yields and capital growth. Average

rental yields in Dubai’s residential

market currently range from 6 to 8

percent, often outperforming global

property hubs such as London or

New York. With growing demand for

quality housing from Dubai’s expanding

population, apartments present a

sustainable income-generating asset

that complements traditional wealth

portfolios built around gold.

Changing Priorities: Why UAE

Investors Are Shifting from Gold

to Real Estate

Government initiatives have played

a central role in boosting investor

confidence. Policies such as long-term

residency visas for property owners,

streamlined regulations, and attractive

mortgage schemes have strengthened

Dubai’s position as a global real estate

destination. Furthermore, mega

projects, infrastructure investments,

and the emirate’s consistent ranking

as a safe and stable hub continue to

drive demand for residential property.

These policy measures provide UAE

investors with assurances that real

estate is not only lucrative but also

secure in the long run.

Market stability is another factor

encouraging the shift. Gold prices,

while traditionally resilient, remain

vulnerable to global economic cycles,

inflationary pressures, and shifts in

central bank policies. Property, by

contrast, has shown a more consistent

upward trend in Dubai, supported by

population growth, tourism expansion,

and a diversified economy. The cultural

preference for tangible assets further

reinforces this shift. Property ownership

in the UAE is often associated with

status, security, and legacy building.

Apartments provide flexibility: they

can be rented, sold, or passed on to

future generations. For many investors,

property represents more than

just financial growth; it embodies a

lasting asset that contributes to family

wealth and long-term stability. This

cultural alignment makes real estate

a natural complement to traditional

holdings in gold.

Dubai Apartments: Income, Stability

& Cultural Appeal

Dubai’s role as a global city has also

magnified the appeal of apartments.

The emirate’s international connectivity,

world-class lifestyle offerings,

and reputation as a safe destination

for expatriates and investors make it

a preferred hub for property ownership.

Events such as Expo 2020 and

the government’s ongoing investment

in technology and infrastructure have

enhanced Dubai’s global standing. These

developments create opportunities for

property appreciation, encouraging

UAE investors to capitalise on the

city’s continued growth.

Diversification is a key driver of this

trend. Experienced investors understand

that relying heavily on a single

asset class exposes them to risks.

Gold, while stable, lacks the growth

potential of real estate in a market like

Dubai. By diversifying into apartments,

investors balance risk while maximising

opportunity. This strategy aligns with

the broader investment shift seen

across the UAE, where capital is being

directed towards real estate, equities,

and emerging technologies in addition

to traditional safe-haven assets.

Technology is also transforming the

way property investments are made.

Digital platforms now provide investors

with access to data-driven insights,

virtual tours, and simplified transaction

processes. The growing popularity of

fractional ownership and real estate

investment platforms allows smaller

investors to participate in Dubai’s

booming apartment market. These

innovations make property investment

more accessible and appealing, particularly

for younger UAE investors who

are comfortable with digital finance and

eager to build diversified portfolios.

At the same time, Dubai’s real estate

sector continues to mature, offering

greater transparency and professionalism.

Regulatory frameworks such as

the Dubai Land Department’s digital

services and escrow regulations have

significantly increased trust in the

market.


Funding & Investment News

Mubadala Capital

Invests in Anaconda’s

$150M Series C Funding

Round

Anaconda, Inc., a US artificial

intelligence firm, has raised $150

million in a Series C funding

round, with Mubadala Capital, the asset

management division of Abu Dhabi’s

Mubadala Investment Co.,listed as

one of the participating investors. The

company, which focuses on advancing

large-scale AI through open-source

solutions, stated that the round was led

by US-based software investor Insight

Partners. The funding will support the

development of new AI capabilities,

strategic acquisitions, and expansion

into additional markets. Established

in 2012, Anaconda reported generating

over $150 million in annual recurring

revenue (ARR) as of July 2025.

Mubadala, headquartered in Abu

Dhabi, has AI investments in its portfolio

that include G42, a UAE-based

artificial intelligence and cloud computing

enterprise.

TAQA Secures AED 8.5B

Term Loan to Boost Liquidity

Abu Dhabi National Energy Company

(TAQA) has obtained an

AED 8.5 billion (USD 2.31 billion)

term loan facility to reinforce its

liquidity and fund long-term growth

initiatives. The two-year, AED-denominated

floating-rate loan includes a

one-year extension option and allows

TAQA to draw funds in phases as needed.

Choosing a loan in local currency aligns

with the company’s income profile and

provides cost benefits through EIBOR

compared with global benchmarks. The

loan’s maturity profile matches well

with TAQA’s current debt schedule,

which has no corporate maturities due

in 2027. This financing move diversifies

TAQA’s liquidity sources and improves

its capital structure flexibility. The

transaction underscores the company’s

credit strength and positions it

to better support future investments

while maintaining a strong and resilient

balance sheet.

Abu Dhabi Royal Family Firm Secures $800M for

Expansion Plans

The Private Department of Sheikh

Mohamed Bin Khalid Al Nahyan,

fully owned by members of Abu

Dhabi’s ruling family, has secured AED3

billion (USD 817 million) to support

fresh investments. The financing,

structured as a 10-year syndicated loan,

was arranged by a group of domestic

lenders, with Abu Dhabi Commercial

Bank, Commercial Bank of Dubai, and

Mashreq acting as joint mandated lead

arrangers, bookrunners, and hedging

banks.

Funds from the facility will also be

allocated towards refinancing existing

bank debt on more favourable terms,

settling sukuk obligations, and meeting

general corporate needs. The loan is

backed by a real estate portfolio spanning

Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Founded in

1964, the Private Department manages

a portfolio that includes more than

2,500 income-generating residential

units, 60,000 square metres of commercial

space.

Coraly.ai Raises $2 Million to Accelerate

Regional Expansion

UAE-based proptech startup

Coraly.ai, previously known

as Coralytics, has successfully

closed a $2 million pre-seed funding

round led by Salica Oryx Fund, a ME-

NA-focused early-stage investor based

in Abu Dhabi Global Market. The round

also included support from EQ2 Ventures

and a cohort of strategic angel

investors. The new capital will fuel

Coraly.ai’s regional expansion across

the GCC and enable early entry into

European and North American markets.

Funding will accelerate product development

by expanding the engineering

team, enhancing AI capabilities, and

enabling commercial rollouts in Saudi

Arabia, France, and the United States.

CEO and Founder Fouad Bekkar emphasized

that real estate agents are

underserved by outdated systems,

and Coraly.ai aims to simplify growth.

CE-Ventures Joins $100M Funding for U.S.

Nuclear Tech Startup

UAE-based venture capital firm

CE-Ventures, part of Crescent

Enterprises, has participated

in a $100 million Series B funding

round for Aalo Atomics, a U.S. nuclear

technology startup. The round was led

by Valor Equity Partners and included

other backers such as Fine Structure

Ventures, Hitachi Ventures, and Crosscut

Ventures. Aalo has been selected

by the U.S. Department of Energy’s

Reactor Pilot Program for fast-tracked

testing of its advanced nuclear technology.

Proceeds from the investment

will support the construction of the

company’s first modular nuclear power

plant, designed to reach zero-power

criticality by July 2026, and aim to

demonstrate how mass-manufactured

reactors can efficiently power AI data

centers. CE-Ventures highlighted nuclear

energy’s potential role in meeting

surging AI-related energy demands

with clean, scalable solutions.


Starvania Studio Secures $1.1M to Drive Global Expansion

Saudi Arabia’s Starvania Studio, an

indie game developer specialising

in immersive fantasy universes,

has raised $1.1 million in new funding

to accelerate its international growth.

The investment will enable the studio

to scale its operations, recruit creative

and technical talent, and strengthen its

technology infrastructure to deliver

high-quality titles for global audiences.

The company, already recognised for its

debut game Bahamut and The Waqwaq

Tree, aims to leverage this funding

to expand its portfolio and compete

on an international stage. Starvania’s

success reflects the rapid evolution

of the MENA gaming industry, where

government initiatives and venture

capital support are propelling startups

into global markets. By focusing

on storytelling and cultural depth to

differentiate itself.

Binghatti Capital Launches $1B Private Credit

Fund to Support Subcontractors

Binghatti Capital, the newly established

asset management

arm of Binghatti Holding, has

launched a Shariah-compliant private

credit fund tailored to real estate supply

chain financing. Structured within

its suite of investment strategies, the

fund aims to enhance working capital

access for construction firms,

property management entities, and

key suppliers. By offering faster and

more flexible funding than traditional

banking channels, the initiative aims

to accelerate project timelines, improve

cash flow, and deliver stronger

returns within the vertically integrated

development model. The fund’s design

reflects Binghatti’s focus on operational

efficiency and integrated financing,

enabling subcontractors to operate

with greater pace and reliability. The

platform is backed by a commitment

to diversify funding sources.

US Tops Greenfield FDI in Saudi Arabia with $2.7B

in H1 2025

The UAE Ministry of Economy

and Tourism will host the inaugural

UAE Africa Tourism

Investment Summit on 27 October

2025 in Dubai. The gathering will be

held as part of FHS World 2025, the

Future Hospitality Summit, bringing

together more than 250 senior delegates

including tourism ministers,

investment leaders and industry stakeholders

from 53 African countries. The

summit is designed to deepen collaboration

between the UAE and Africa,

promoting joint ventures in tourism

infrastructure, hospitality projects and

sustainable travel initiatives. A Memorandum

of Understanding has been

signed with The Bench, organisers of

FHS World, to manage the summit’s

programme and global outreach. The

initiative highlights the UAE’s role as a

hub for international cooperation and

its commitment to fostering long term

economic and cultural partnerships

with Africa.

US Tops Greenfield FDI in

Saudi Arabia with $2.7B

in H1 2025

The United States has emerged as

the largest greenfield investor in

Saudi Arabia during the first half

of 2025, reflecting growing investor

confidence in the Kingdom’s economy

and Vision 2030 diversification agenda.

American companies launched 61 new

projects valued at approximately $2.7

billion, representing close to one-third

of both the overall project count and

capital inflows. This surge highlights

deepening economic ties between

the US and Saudi Arabia, particularly

across energy, infrastructure, and

advanced technology sectors. In total,

Saudi Arabia attracted 203 greenfield

projects worth $9.34 billion in the

six-month period, marking a 30.1 percent

year-on-year increase in project

numbers. Egypt followed with $1.81

billion from 11 projects, while China

and France contributed $858.3 million

and $771.7 million respectively.


Economy


Cryptocurrency growth in UAE supports diversification, strengthening its leadership in global innovation.

Can Crypto Become the

Nation’s Second-Largest

Economic Sector Within

Five Years?

UAE Aims to Elevate Cryptocurrency as

its Second-Largest Sector, Shaping Future

Economic Transformation.

The United Arab Emirates is making

one of its boldest economic bets yet by

aiming to establish cryptocurrency as

the country’s second-largest economic

sector within the next five years. This

ambition reflects the nation’s long-standing

strategy of diversification beyond oil

and its determination to lead in emerging

technologies worldwide. Building on its

success as a hub for finance, trade, and

innovation, the UAE is positioning itself

as a global centre for blockchain and digital

assets. With supportive regulation,

advanced infrastructure, and international

partnerships, the initiative underscores

the nation’s intent to reshape the global

digital finance landscape.


The United Arab Emirates has

long positioned itself as a hub

for economic diversification and

financial innovation. In recent years, its

leadership has taken deliberate steps

to reduce reliance on hydrocarbons

and channel investment into emerging

industries such as artificial intelligence,

renewable energy, and fintech. Among

these, cryptocurrency and blockchain

stand out as areas with the potential

to transform the nation’s economic

landscape. The UAE’s ambition to make

crypto its second-largest economic

sector within five years reflects both

optimism and strategy, but also raises

questions about feasibility, regulation,

and sustainability.

The UAE’s crypto ambitions are

not without precedent. Over the past

decade, the country has consistently

embraced cutting-edge technologies

to cement its position as a regional

leader. Dubai’s launch of the Virtual

Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA)

in 2022 was a milestone in providing

structure to a rapidly evolving market.

By offering a framework for digital

asset exchanges, custodians, and service

providers, VARA has signalled the

government’s commitment to balancing

innovation with regulatory oversight.

In Abu Dhabi, the Financial Services

Regulatory Authority (FSRA) within

Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) has

developed similar initiatives, ensuring

that the nation presents a unified and

credible front to global investors.

Balancing Innovation: UAE’s Regulatory

Vision

Economic forecasts highlight the potential

scale of this transformation. A

report by PwC suggests that blockchain

technology could contribute USD 1.76

trillion to the global economy by 2030.

The UAE aims to capture a significant

share of this growth by positioning

itself as a preferred destination for

crypto enterprises. Free zones such

as Dubai Multi Commodities Centre

(DMCC) and ADGM already host hundreds

of blockchain and crypto firms,

reflecting strong interest in the local

ecosystem. If growth continues, digital

assets could indeed rival established

sectors such as logistics and tourism

in their contribution to GDP.

However, the path to making crypto

the nation’s second-largest economic

sector is fraught with challenges.

One of the most pressing concerns

is volatility. Cryptocurrencies remain

subject to unpredictable fluctuations

that can affect their reliability as a

store of value. To mitigate this, the

UAE may prioritise the development

and adoption of stablecoins or explore

central bank digital currencies (CB-

DCs). The Central Bank of the UAE has

already launched “Project mBridge,”

a cross-border CBDC pilot with other

Asian economies, which could provide

a secure and regulated complement to

private crypto initiatives.

Building Infrastructure and Talent

for Crypto Growth

Another critical issue lies in regulatory

clarity and global alignment. While the

UAE has taken strong steps domestically,

international cooperation will be

key. Cryptocurrencies operate across

borders, and inconsistent rules between

jurisdictions could hinder growth. For

the UAE, positioning itself as a compliant

yet innovation-friendly jurisdiction

will be essential. Attracting global firms

requires a balance: too much regulation

risks stifling innovation, while too little

creates reputational risks in the form

of money laundering or illicit activity.

Infrastructure readiness will also

determine success. A thriving crypto

economy requires not only exchanges

and wallets but also cybersecurity, payment

gateways, and blockchain-based

applications that integrate with traditional

industries. The UAE’s broader

digital transformation agenda, including

smart cities and e-government services,

provides fertile ground for such integration.

Already, Dubai’s move to accept

digital currencies for government fees

has created momentum and signalled

institutional readiness to adopt crypto

at scale. Expanding these use cases to

real estate, retail, and trade finance

could accelerate adoption.

The human capital dimension is

equally vital. To achieve its target, the

UAE must cultivate a skilled workforce

capable of driving crypto innovation.

Partnerships with universities, specialised

training programmes, and

incentives for global talent are already

part of the strategy. By positioning

itself as a knowledge hub, the UAE

can ensure that its crypto sector does

not rely solely on imported expertise

but builds a sustainable pipeline of

local talent.

Navigating Risks and Driving

Sustainable Adoption

Despite the opportunities, scepticism

persists. Critics point to the cyclical

nature of crypto markets, arguing

that a reliance on digital assets could

expose the economy to unnecessary

risk. Others highlight the environmental

Developing a strong

and secure digital asset

ecosystem is central to

the UAE’s vision for future

economic growth.”

His Excellency Omar Sultan Al Olama,

Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence,

Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications

concerns linked to cryptocurrency

mining. Although the UAE is unlikely

to become a mining hub due to energy

considerations, it could lead in promoting

greener blockchain technologies.

Aligning crypto development with the

UAE’s sustainability agenda would

strengthen its credibility and ensure

long-term resilience.

The UAE’s ambition to make crypto

its second-largest economic sector

within five years is both daring and visionary.

Success will hinge on balancing

innovation with regulation, ensuring

security, and building the necessary

infrastructure and talent base. While

volatility and scepticism remain, the

UAE’s track record in transforming

industries suggests it can turn this

ambition into reality.


FinTech News

Qatar Pushes for Fintech Growth as Cornerstone of Economic

Diversification

Qatar is accelerating its fintech

agenda as a key driver of economic

diversification, strengthening its

position as a regional innovation hub.

The Qatar Financial Centre has launched

the Fintech Circle co-working hub, while

the Qatar Central Bank continues to

operate a fintech regulatory sandbox

to encourage innovation. Additionally,

the Qatar Investment Authority has

committed USD 1 billion to venture

capital funds targeting fintech, edtech,

and healthcare across the GCC. In 2024,

fintech companies in Qatar secured

QAR 46 million (USD 12.6 million) in

venture investment, representing 41

percent of the country’s total venture

capital funding. This marked a 581

percent increase compared to the

previous year. Fintech also led in deal

volume, accounting for 29 percent of all

transactions, with notable rounds going

to Spendwisor, Wahed, and Xpendless.

Presight Launches First AI-Startup Accelerator

Bootcamp in Abu Dhabi

Presight has kicked off the inaugural

AI-Startup Accelerator

Bootcamp in Abu Dhabi, bringing

together ten startups from the

United States, Singapore, Indonesia,

Azerbaijan, Tajikistan, and the UAE.

Over three days starting August 18, the

participants engaged in a structured

program focusing on scaling practical

AI solutions. The startups received

hands-on technical support, mentorship,

and introductions to Presight’s

institutional clients. They pitched their

ideas based on themes such as urban

innovation, AI tools and foundational

technologies, and market applications

across sectors like fintech, energy, education,

investment decision-making,

and smart cities. The program featured

participation from prominent partners

including Microsoft, Hub71, MOIAT,

ENEC, FAB, ADNOC Onshore, Borouge,

and the Abu Dhabi Department

of Energy. Demos and commercial

readiness workshops formed part of

the final day’s activities.

BurjX Secures UAE Digital Asset Platform with

Fireblocks Infrastructure

ASB Capital Launches

Global Technology Fund

with BlueBox Asset

Management

ASB Capital, a Dubai-based asset and

wealth management firm with US $5.5

billion in assets under management, has

launched the ASB Global Technology Fund

in partnership with BlueBox Asset Management

of Geneva and the UK. The fund

is based in Dubai International Financial

Centre and will invest in publicly listed

technology-driven companies across

both developed and emerging markets.

It will target a portfolio of 25 to 35 firms,

each typically valued at or above US $1

billion, with a 10% exposure limit to any

single issuer. The fund’s strategy spans the

entire technology value chain, including

infrastructure, enablers, and platforms

that shape the future economy.

BurjX, a UAE-based digital asset

trading platform licensed by the

Financial Services Regulatory

Authority of ADGM, has integrated

Fireblocks’ enterprise-grade infrastructure

to secure both its trading

and custody operations. The platform

addresses rising digital asset theft,

exceeding USD 2.17 billion in the first

half of 2025, and fills a gap as only 22

percent of exchanges currently offer

full insurance coverage. BurjX combines

Fireblocks’ high-performance

MPC wallet technology, capable of

handling up to one million transactions

per second, with robust safeguards

including role-based access,

automated policy enforcement, and

multi-layer authorization. To enhance

compliance, the company has added

Notabene for Travel Rule adherence and

Chainalysis for transaction monitoring.

Comprehensive insurance from Relm

Insurance covers both hot and cold

wallets, enabling fast execution, deep

liquidity, and secure custody.


Wio Bank Launches

Direct Integration with

Xero to Simplify

Accounting

Wio Bank, the UAE’s digital first

banking platform, has launched

a direct integration with Xero,

enabling its Wio Business customers to

streamline their accounting workflows.

This integration provides seamless bank

feeds, automated reconciliation, and real

time financial insights, all accessible

with a few clicks. The partnership is

designed to transform the way SMEs

and accounting professionals manage

their financial operations. By eliminating

manual data entry and reducing reconciliation

errors, it not only saves time

but also ensures greater accuracy and

compliance with accounting standards.

Businesses gain the advantage of real

time visibility into cash flow, enabling

more informed decision making and

better financial planning. The system

allows accountants to focus on growth

strategies instead of admin work.

Dubai Introduces AI Seal to Certify Trusted

Artificial Intelligence Providers

Dubai has introduced the “Dubai

AI Seal,” a certification program

developed by the Dubai

Centre for Artificial Intelligence under

the guidance of His Highness Sheikh

Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al

Maktoum. The AI Seal is issued in one

of six tiers E, D, C, B, A, and S based on

economic contribution and activities,

with S being the highest level. Participating

companies receive a unique

serial number and classification that

can be verified online. As of mid May

2025, 325 companies licensed in Dubai

including organisations from sectors

such as health, media, real estate, and

software had applied, representing 77

international offices. Early recipients

of the Tier S classification include e&

and IBM. The certification is free and

is likely to become a requirement for

participation in future government AI

projects, serving to build a trusted and

accountable AI ecosystem in Dubai.

Robinhood Applies for DFSA License to Expand

into Dubai

Robinhood, the US-based neobroker,

has applied for a Category

4 license from the Dubai

Financial Services Authority (DFSA),

indicating its intent to operate in the

UAE and the broader Middle East and

North Africa (MENA) region.

If approved, the license would permit

Robinhood to establish operations

in the Dubai International Financial

Centre (DIFC), a prominent financial

hub. This move is part of the company’s

broader international expansion,

which has recently included increased

activity in Europe and Asia.

To lead its MENA operations, Robinhood

has appointed Mario Camara

as Senior Executive Officer. Camara

has extensive experience in the FX

and CFDs industry, having served as

Senior Vice President of Licensing &

Government Relations at Equiti Group

for six years. He previously held leadership

roles at Saxo Bank, where he

was Managing Director for the MENA

region based in DIFC.

Insurtech Mantas Receives

In-Principle Approval from

DFSA for Category 4 License

Mantas, a pioneering insurtech

firm, has received in-principle

approval from the Dubai

Financial Services Authority for a

Category 4 licence. Once final licence

conditions are met, the company

will be authorised to operate as a

regulated Managing General Agent,

offering insurance intermediation and

management services. This achievement

supports Mantas’s ambition to

deliver parametric insurance solutions

tailored for cloud-reliant businesses

across the Middle East and Africa.

The company is the first in the MEA

region to use predictive analytics

for developing insurance products

designed to support digital service

delivery and embedded business models.

Basil Mimi, Co-founder and Chief

Executive Officer of Mantas, emphasised

the importance of protecting

digital enterprises from cloud failures

and reinforced their commitment to

innovation until business disruption

becomes a managed, predictable event.


Real Estate


Dubai developers streamline construction by moving operations in-house, ensuring faster delivery.

Inside Dubai’s Property

Surge: Why Developers

Are Taking Construction

In-House

Developers in Dubai are bringing Construction

in-House to Cut Costs, Improve Control, and

Boost Efficiency.

Dubai’s real estate market is experiencing

an unprecedented surge, driven by

rising demand for luxury residences,

premium office spaces, and mixed-use

developments. As projects grow in scale

and complexity, developers are rethinking

traditional models to deliver faster,

more cost-efficient, and higher-quality outcomes.

An emerging trend is the decision

to bring construction activities in-house,

a move that provides greater control over

timelines, costs, and sustainability practices.

By internalising these capabilities,

developers are positioning themselves

to meet investor expectations, mitigate

risks, and maintain competitiveness in

a rapidly evolving market that continues

to strengthen Dubai’s status as a global

property hub.


Dubai’s real estate sector continues

to capture global attention

as both residential and

commercial markets achieve record

growth. With a surge in demand for

luxury living, premium offices, and

mixed-use developments, developers

are increasingly rethinking their business

models to ensure efficiency and

profitability. A noticeable shift is the

decision by leading property players

to bring construction capabilities inhouse,

a strategy designed to reduce

risks, control costs, and deliver projects

at unmatched speed. This transformation

marks an important moment for

Dubai’s property market as developers

adapt to heightened competition and

evolving investor expectations.

Developers face pressure to deliver

larger, more complex projects on

shorter timelines, prompting them to

seek greater control over the supply

chain. By internalising construction,

firms are not only reducing dependency

on third-party contractors but

also safeguarding against the risks of

delays, cost escalations, and supply

disruptions that can erode margins in

a fast-moving market.

Operational Control and Efficiency

Bringing construction in-house allows

developers to exercise greater

oversight from planning to execution.

This integrated model ensures tighter

coordination between design, procurement,

and delivery phases, enabling

firms to streamline operations and

resolve challenges swiftly. Developers

can prioritise quality standards

and enforce sustainability measures

aligned with Dubai’s environmental

goals, which are often compromised

when managed externally. Furthermore,

direct control over construction teams

facilitates faster decision-making, ensuring

projects remain on schedule in a

market where timing often determines

commercial success.

Cost Management and Profitability

One of the major drivers behind this shift

is cost efficiency. Construction expenses,

particularly materials and labour,

are subject to global price volatility.

By managing these elements internally,

developers can negotiate better supplier

contracts, optimise resource allocation,

and reduce waste. For large-scale

projects, even small cost savings per

unit translate into significant financial

By encouraging

vertical integration in

construction, we aim

to enhance project

transparency, control, and

delivery speed, ensuring

Dubai’s developments

continue to meet the

highest global standards.”

Marwan Bin Ghalita, Director General of

the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA)

advantages. This approach also allows

companies to capture margins that

would otherwise be distributed across

multiple subcontractors, improving

overall profitability while enhancing

competitive positioning.

Innovation and Sustainability

Advantages

In-house construction teams are proving

critical in adopting new technologies

and sustainable practices. Developers

in Dubai are increasingly turning to

prefabrication, modular building, and

digital project management tools such

as Building Information Modelling

(BIM). By embedding these innovations

within internal teams, firms can

accelerate adoption and tailor solutions

directly to project needs. This is especially

relevant as Dubai strengthens

its sustainability commitments under

the UAE Net Zero 2050 Strategy, with

developers under pressure to minimise

environmental footprints and integrate

smart, energy-efficient systems.

Talent Retention and Specialised

Expertise

The ability to build strong in-house

teams also creates a competitive edge

in terms of human capital. Skilled engineers,

architects, and project managers

are in high demand across the region.

Developers who consolidate these capabilities

internally are better positioned

to retain talent, foster collaboration,

and cultivate specialised expertise

tailored to their unique portfolio. This

not only improves project delivery but

also strengthens long-term institutional

knowledge, which can be leveraged for

future developments.

As more developers adopt this model,

the competitive landscape in Dubai is

evolving. Smaller firms, which may lack

the resources to establish full-scale

in-house divisions, face challenges

in keeping pace with larger players.

However, this could drive greater collaboration,

mergers, or joint ventures as

companies seek to pool expertise and

achieve economies of scale. The trend

also places new pressure on traditional

contractors, who must adapt by offering

niche expertise, higher efficiency, or

technology-driven services to remain

relevant.

Investor and Buyer Confidence

For buyers, the in-house construction

approach provides reassurance of

quality and timely delivery. Delays and

compromises in workmanship have

long been concerns in fast-expanding

property markets. By demonstrating

greater accountability, developers can

strengthen brand reputation and attract

a more discerning class of investors,

including institutional funds and international

buyers. This trust becomes

especially valuable in Dubai’s high-end

property segment, where competition

is fierce, and expectations are exacting.

Dubai’s property surge is reshaping

how developers approach project

delivery, with in-house construction

emerging as a key strategic advantage.

This move enhances control, reduces

costs, and aligns with sustainability

goals while reinforcing investor confidence.

Although challenges remain,

the trend highlights the adaptability

of Dubai’s real estate market and

its determination to maintain global

competitiveness.


Local News

UAE Federal Tax Authority Issues Corporate Tax Deadline Reminder

The UAE Federal Tax Authority (FTA)

has reminded all Corporate Tax

taxpayers to finalise tax records,

submit returns, and pay any tax due

within the designated deadlines. The

notice applies to all entities, including

exempt persons required to register,

with returns and payments expected

within nine months from the end of

each tax period. The FTA warned that

failure to comply could result in fines

and penalties for late submissions or

non-payment. Businesses are advised

to prepare key documents in advance,

including commercial licences, financial

statements, and business activity

information, to ensure accurate and

timely filing. The Authority highlighted

the EmaraTax digital platform as a

streamlined solution, available 24/7 for

secure and efficient tax submissions.

Companies can file directly through

EmaraTax or consult authorised tax

agents listed on the FTA’s website.

CBUAE Imposes AED

2M Penalty on Malik

Exchange over AML

Breaches

The Central Bank of the UAE

(CBUAE) announced on Wednesday

that it had imposed a Dh2 million

fine on Malik Exchange and revoked its

licence due to breaches of anti-money

laundering regulations. The regulator

confirmed that the exchange house’s

name has also been removed from the

official Register, in line with the UAE’s

laws on Anti-Money Laundering (AML),

Combating the Financing of Terrorism

(CFT), and Illegal Organisations, along

with their amendments.

Strict measures were taken following

investigations by the CBUAE, which

uncovered violations and non-compliance

with the relevant AML and

CFT frameworks. The Central Bank

emphasised that all exchange houses,

along with their owners and employees,

are required to strictly adhere to the

nation’s regulatory framework.

UAE Banks Process $2.59T Transactions in Five

Months

The UAE Funds Transfer System

(UAEFTS) processed transactions

worth AED 9.528 trillion

during the first five months of 2025,

reflecting the strength and scale of the

country’s banking sector. Data from the

Central Bank of the UAE showed that

transfers executed by banks totalled

AED 5.963 trillion, broken down as

AED 1.1 trillion in January, AED 983.99

billion in February, AED 1.238 trillion

in March, AED 1.273 trillion in April,

The Ministry of Human Resources

and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has

signed a memorandum of understanding

with e& money, the fintech

subsidiary of e&, to offer wage protection

services for domestic workers via the

e& money platform. This collaboration

integrates MoHRE’s Wage Protection

System (WPS) into the app, allowing

employers to manage domestic workers’

salary payments in line with UAE laws

and regulatory standards.

Dalal Alshehhi, Acting Assistant

Undersecretary for Labour Protection

at MoHRE, stated: “This partnership

demonstrates MoHRE’s ongoing dedication

to protecting workers’ rights. By

extending our wage protection services

through e& money in its initial phase,

we are bringing the WPS to domestic

workers in accordance with current

and AED 1.089 trillion in May. Customer

transfers surpassed AED 3.834 trillion

over the same period. These included

AED 677.65 billion in January, AED

649.48 billion in February, AED 791.31

billion in March, AED 879.94 billion

in April, and AED 836.16 billion in

May. Cheque transactions remained

significant, with the value of cheques

cleared through systems reaching AED

603.16 billion across nearly 9.6 million

cheques during the five-month period.

MoHRE and e& Money Collaborate to Expand

Wage Protection Services

regulations. Melike Kara, CEO of e&

money, commented: “At e& money,

we aim to develop financial solutions

that genuinely improve people’s lives,

enhance financial well-being, and

promote inclusive economic growth.


UAB Secures AED 1.03 Billion Through Oversubscribed Rights Issue

United Arab Bank (UAB), listed

on the Abu Dhabi Securities

Exchange (ADX), has successfully

completed its capital increase

through a Rights Issue, concluding

on July 29, 2025. The offering raised

AED1.031 billion, increasing the bank’s

issued capital from AED2.062 billion

to AED3.093 billion. Priced at AED1

per share, the newly issued shares

were fully approved by all regulatory

Emerge and EDB Join

Forces for UAE Solar

Growth

Emerge, the joint venture between

Masdar and France’s EDF

Group, has signed a Memorandum

of Understanding (MoU) with

Emirates Development Bank (EDB) to

collaborate on developing and financing

distributed solar energy projects

throughout the UAE. The agreement

reinforces both entities’ commitment

to supporting the country’s energy

transition and industrial competitiveness.

Under the agreement, Emerge

will identify potential solar projects

and present them to EDB for evaluation.

EDB will, in turn, assess viable

opportunities and explore bespoke

financing solutions tailored to accelerate

implementation.The partnership is

a strategic move in line with the UAE’s

2050 Net Zero goals. By providing

access to tailored financing and technical

solutions, EDB is reinforcing its

role as a key catalyst in the country’s

renewable energy ecosystem. The bank

continues to empower businesses and

entrepreneurs to adopt clean energy

practices, fostering long-term sustainability

and industrial innovation

across the UAE.

authorities. The Rights Issue was

oversubscribed, signalling strong investor

confidence in UAB’s turnaround

strategy and growth outlook. The

bank confirmed that proceeds will be

used to reinforce its capital base and

support future business expansion.

This marks a significant financial

milestone, aligning with UAB’s ongoing

efforts to enhance performance and

stakeholder value.

ADNOC Gas Secures 10-Year LNG Supply Deal with

India’s HPCL

ADNOC Gas plc and its subsidiaries

have signed a 10-year Heads of

Agreement with Hindustan Petroleum

Corporation Limited (HPCL)

for the annual supply of 0.5 million

metric tonnes of LNG. This deal further

extends the company’s reach in

the high-demand Asian LNG market.

The agreement highlights ADNOC Gas’

increasing role as a dependable global

LNG supplier and reinforces its longterm

commitment to the Indian energy

sector. With this third deal involving

Dubai Financial Market (DFM)

posted exceptional results for the

first half of 2025, achieving a net

profit before tax of AED777.1 million,

marking a 298% increase compared to the

same period in 2024. This performance

reflects strong investor confidence,

elevated trading volumes, and deepening

market participation amid Dubai’s

expanding role in global finance. DFM’s

consolidated revenue surged 191% yearon-year

to AED888.9 million, driven by

higher operating income, solid investment

returns, and one-off income from the

Indian entities in the past year, following

agreements with Indian Oil Corporation

and GAIL India Limited, the UAE

continues to deepen strategic energy

partnerships with India. The LNG for

this agreement will be sourced from

ADNOC Gas’ Das Island facility, which

boasts a production capacity of 6 mmtpa.

This site has remained operational

for decades and has dispatched over

3,500 LNG shipments, positioning it

among the world’s longest-running

liquefaction plants.

DFM Sees 298% Growth, AED 777.1 Million H1

Profit

sale of investment property. Q2 2025

revenue alone reached AED702.5 million,

significantly up from AED157.6 million in

Q2 2024. Correspondingly, Q2 net profit

before tax stood at AED642.2 million,

a sharp rise from AED99.8 million the

previous year. The DFM General Index

rose 10.6%, signalling continued investor

trust in Dubai’s capital markets. Market

capitalisation also grew 9.7% to AED995

billion. During H1 2025, average daily

traded value (ADTV) rose 75% to AED692

million, with total traded value climbing

to AED85 billion.


Infographic

UAE as A Global Capital Gateway

In 2024, the UAE’s foreign direct investment (FDI) grew 48.5%

to reach $45.6 billion, making it one of the top 10 global

FDI destinations and leading in the Middle East.

UAE FDI by Economic Sector (2024-2025)

Sector Distribution:

Other Sectors:

Value: ~$6.4bn

Wholesale & Retail Trade:

Value: ~$11.9bn

26%

14%

7%

Manufacturing:

Value: ~$3.2bn

8%

Mining & Quarrying:

Value: ~$3.6bn

Real Estate:

Value: ~$10.9bn

24%

21%

Finance & Insurance:

Value: ~$9.6bn

UAE FDI Annual Progression:

2020

$19.9 billion

2021

$20.7 billion

(+3.9% growth)

2022

$22.7 billion

(+10% growth)

2023

$30.7 billion

(+35% growth)

2024

$45.6 billion

(+48.5% growth)


Key Milestones:

The UAE’s investment landscape has

seen remarkable progress over the past

four years, underscoring its emergence

as a global capital magnet.

2023

2024

2022

Ranked 10th

globally,

maintained 2nd

place in

greenfield

projects

2021

Achieved

highest FDI in

history at that

time

Ranked 11th

globally, 2nd in

greenfield

projects

UAE ranked

19th globally for

FDI inflows

Growth Trajectory Markers:

Cumulative FDI Stock:

Reached $270.6 billion in 2024.

CAGR:

10.5% compound annual growth

since 2015.

Global Fund Exposure:

UAE representation in Global Emerging

Markets (GEM) funds doubled

from 35% (2021) to 65% (2025).

UAE Stock Markets:

DFM & ADX exceeded $1 trillion in

market capitalization by end of 2024.

Global Share:

UAE accounts for 37% of all

MENA region FDI.


Cover Story

Shaping

Next Generation

Dubai Living



Cover Story

Wadan Developments represents a calculated response to Dubai’s evolving residential market, where CEO

Salah Udin identified a critical opportunity in the premium segment: the absence of truly integrated

wellness-technology living experiences that address how modern residents actually live. Headquartered

in Downtown Dubai, the company emerged in 2025 with a clear mission to redefine luxury residential development

through substance over spectacle.

The company’s debut project, Nuvana by Wadan on Dubai Islands, comprises just 56 exclusive residences

priced from AED 1.6 million. The company’s philosophy of ‘Vision Beyond Luxury” demonstrates how developers

can establish market presence through authentic differentiation, addressing buyer psychology and lifestyle

aspirations rather than simply delivering impressive specifications.

As Dubai’s real estate market matures, Wadan’s approach suggests a new paradigm where substance over

spectacle defines premium residential development.

Exclusive Interview with FinanceWorld

Q: What gap in Dubai’s property

market led Wadan Developments to

launch now?

We identified a compelling opportunity

in Dubai’s real estate landscape where

traditional developers weren’t fully addressing

the evolving needs of modern

residents. Despite the city’s continued

growth and development activity, we

observed a notable gap in premium,

technology-integrated, wellness-focused

residences that truly understood contemporary

living requirements.

Our market analysis revealed widening

disparities between primary off-plan

sales prices and secondary market values,

particularly in established areas like JLT,

Dubai Marina, and Business Bay. These

pricing gaps indicated fundamental market

shifts and evolving investor sentiment

that presented strategic opportunities for

developers with differentiated approaches.

More importantly, we observed buyers

increasingly seeking integrated communities

that offer holistic living environments

rather than just residential units. Modern

purchasers wanted developments that

seamlessly blend smart technology, wellness

amenities, and sustainable design as

standard offerings, not luxury add-ons.

This represented a fundamental shift in

Wadan isn’t just

a home; it’s an

intelligent, well-beingfocused

lifestyle.”


buyer psychology toward experiential living

that the market hadn’t fully embraced.

Q: How does Wadan’s wellness philosophy

reshape residential living

experiences?

Our wellness-centered approach fundamentally

reimagines how residential spaces

support human health and wellbeing,

moving beyond superficial amenities to

create environments that actively promote

physical and mental wellness.

Dedicated wellness lounges within

each residence provide retreat spaces

for meditation, yoga, or quiet reflection,

while landscaped green spaces throughout

the development offer communal areas

for relaxation and social connection. The

proximity to pristine beaches and outdoor

recreational facilities encourages active

lifestyle choices as integral components

of daily routines rather than occasional

activities.

Our integrated wellness technology includes

advanced air purification systems

that maintain optimal indoor air quality,

aromatherapy integration that can be customized

to individual preferences, and

circadian lighting that naturally regulates

sleep-wake cycles by mimicking natural

light patterns throughout the day.

This comprehensive wellness integration

extends beyond individual residences to

community design, fostering environments

where healthy living becomes effortless

rather than requiring conscious effort. Residents

experience improved sleep quality,

enhanced mood stability, and increased

energy levels as natural outcomes of their

living environment rather than requiring

separate wellness investments or lifestyle

modifications.

Q: How does technology integration

create truly intelligent living environments?

Our technology philosophy centers on

creating invisible intelligence that anticipates

needs rather than requiring constant

user interaction or management.

AI-powered smart home systems learn

individual lifestyle patterns, automatically

adjusting climate control, lighting, security,

and entertainment settings based

on occupancy patterns, time of day, and

personal preferences.

The AI-powered Wadan App serves

as the central nervous system for each

residence, providing predictive maintenance

alerts before issues arise, hyper-personalized

experience recommendations

based on usage patterns, and seamless

communication with dedicated concierge

services. This system learns from resident

behavior to optimize energy efficiency,

security protocols, and comfort settings

without requiring manual programming

or adjustment.

Wadan’s Vision

Beyond Luxury’ is about

creating a holistic

living experience that

nurtures body, mind,

and lifestyle through

innovation, wellness,

and design.”

’

Security integration operates through

our AI Security System, offering intelligent

detection capabilities including

facial recognition for authorized access,

behavioral analysis for unusual activity

patterns, and smart monitoring for people

and vehicles. These systems enhance

safety while maintaining privacy through

advanced encryption and local processing

that keeps personal data secure.

This approach creates living environments

that adapt to residents rather than

requiring residents to adapt to technology,

delivering authentic smart living experiences

that enhance daily life quality

through seamless, intelligent automation.


Cover Story

Key Highlights:

Location:

Dubai Islands

Price Range:

Starting from AED 1.6M

Configurations:

1, 2, & 3-bedroom homes

Total Units:

57 exclusive residences

Completion:

Expected in Q3 2027

Size Range:

950 to 2,150 sq ft


Located in Dubai Islands


Cover Story

We bring more than just

promises, we bring our

own machinery, our

own resources, and the

confidence that comes

with complete control

over every aspect of

construction.”

residential innovation, generating conversation

and validation opportunities

that enhance their ownership experience

beyond operational convenience.

The fear of missing out on technological

advancement also drives decision-making.

Buyers increasingly worry that traditional

luxury properties without integrated

smart systems will become obsolete or

lose value as technology becomes the

new standard.

Q: Against real estate giants, what

competitive edge does Wadan claim?

Our competitive strategy operates on

fundamentally different principles than

integration from construction through

lifestyle curation. We bring our own machinery,

resources, and comprehensive

construction capability to every project.

This independence eliminates the delays,

quality variations, and coordination

challenges that plague traditional development

models. When projects require

acceleration or problem-solving, we move

immediately rather than negotiating with

external contractors or waiting for equipment

availability. Our in-house construction

arm, Autolink Contracting, brings

extensive experience from major projects

including FIFA World Cup 2022 stadiums

in Qatar, Doha Metro, and Katara Towers.

Q: What is the core business case for

Wadan’s technology adoption strategy?

Our technology integration strategy is

fundamentally rooted in understanding

buyer psychology rather than pursuing

efficiency gains or simple product differentiation.

We recognize that technology

adoption decisions are primarily driven

by emotional and aspirational factors:

social proof, perceived modernity, and the

desire to signal innovation and relevance.

Buyers today make residential choices

that reflect their identity and lifestyle

aspirations. When they see AI-powered

smart home systems, advanced security

features, or integrated wellness technology,

they’re not just evaluating functional

benefits.

Residents experience pride in owning

homes that represent the cutting edge of

traditional large-scale developers, focusing

on emotional resonance and psychological

differentiation rather than scale and

volume metrics.

Our global buyer orientation targets

overseas communities, digital nomads,

and culturally fluid buyers rather than just

traditional luxury investors or regional

purchasers. This strategy opens broader,

more emotionally invested capital pools

that value unique experiences over conventional

prestige markers.

Q: How does Wadan’s integrated construction

and lifestyle delivery model

ensure exceptional execution?

At Wadan, we fundamentally reject

the industry standard of dependency

on third-party contractors and rental

equipment, maintaining complete vertical

Q: What underpins Wadan’s confidence

in Dubai Islands as a strategic location

choice?

Dubai Islands represents the optimal convergence

of future value creation potential

and current market accessibility for our

target buyer segment. Dubai Islands provides

access to 21 kilometers of pristine

coastline within a master plan spanning

significant development scope, creating

an emerging lifestyle destination rather

than just another residential location.

This transformation trajectory aligns

perfectly with our buyers’ investment

psychology, where they seek participation

in Dubai’s next growth phase rather

than paying peak premiums for mature

markets.

This location choice reflects our broader

philosophy of identifying emerging


opportunities rather than competing in

oversaturated markets, enabling us to

deliver superior value propositions while

establishing leadership positions in Dubai’s

next premium residential destinations.

Q: Beyond Nuvana, how does Wadan

envision expanding its development

pipeline?

Our expansion strategy prioritizes depth

over breadth, focusing on establishing

Wadan as the definitive wellness-tech residential

brand within Dubai’s premium

market before considering geographic

diversification. This approach ensures

we perfect our integrated construction

and lifestyle delivery model while building

strong brand recognition and buyer loyalty.

Given our boutique positioning with

Nuvana’s exclusive 56-residence limitation,

future projects will maintain this

commitment to exclusivity and personalized

attention rather than pursuing

volume-driven growth, integrating our

wellness-technology philosophy.

Company Highlights:

Countries Operating in:

Wadan’s Construction Arm, Autolink

Contracting (ALC) has been involved in

major projects across Qatar, Pakistan,

and Afghanistan, including the FIFA

World Cup 2022 stadiums in Qatar, Doha

metro, Katara Towers, and luxury hotels

under brands like Radisson Blu, Hilton,

and Rotana.

Property Highlights:

Key Amenities:

• AI-powered smart home systems

• Infinity-edge pool with sea views

• Wellness lounge and green spaces

• Direct marina and beach access

• Premium materials and finishes

• Fully furnished and fitted

Brand Positioning:

• Innovative

• “Vision Beyond Luxury”

• Boutique luxury segment

• Wellness-tech convergence

Location:

• 21 km of Dubai Islands coastline

• Connectivity to DXB Airport

• Close to beaches, resorts & shopping

• New AED5.3B Shindagha Corridor

Bridge (2026)


Investment


Traders and investors at Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange reflect its growing role in regional capital markets.

Abu Dhabi Securities

Exchange: The Rising

Powerhouse of Regional

Capital Markets

Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange is Transforming

into a Regional Powerhouse, Driving Innovation

and Connectivity.

The Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange

(ADX) has emerged as one of the most

influential platforms in the region’s financial

ecosystem, underpinned by strong

regulatory oversight, technology adoption,

and ambitious listing strategies. In recent

years, ADX has witnessed remarkable

growth, attracting both regional and international

investors seeking stability

and opportunity. Its rise aligns with Abu

Dhabi’s broader economic diversification

agenda, channelling capital into sectors

beyond oil while fostering innovation and

sustainability. As the exchange continues

to strengthen market infrastructure and

investor confidence, it plays a pivotal role

in shaping the UAE’s ambition to become

a global capital markets powerhouse.



(ADX) has emerged as

one of the Middle East’s most

dynamic financial platforms, rapidly

gaining prominence among regional

and international investors. Over the

past few years, ADX has undergone

a significant transformation, marked

by regulatory reforms, technology

integration, and an ambitious listing

strategy designed to attract both institutional

and retail participation. This

evolution has positioned the exchange

not only as a vital pillar of the UAE’s

economy but also as a leading regional

hub capable of competing with global

capital markets.

The resilience of ADX lies in its ability

to adapt to global financial trends

while catering to the region’s economic

diversification agenda. From enhancing

market liquidity to introducing innovative

financial products, the exchange

has created an ecosystem that fosters

investor confidence. The integration

of new technologies, investor-friendly

regulations, and strategic partnerships

has enabled ADX to strengthen its

position as a growth engine for capital

markets across the GCC.

Expanding Listings and Diversifying

Offerings

One of the most visible drivers of ADX’s

growth has been the increasing number

of high-profile listings. State-owned

enterprises and private corporations

have chosen the exchange to raise

capital, leveraging its growing depth

and visibility. Initial public offerings

(IPOs) on ADX have attracted significant

oversubscriptions, demonstrating

strong appetite from local, regional,

and global investors.

These listings span diverse sectors

including energy, financial services,

healthcare, and logistics, aligning with

Abu Dhabi’s broader vision of building

a diversified economy. By providing

access to world-class companies, ADX

has elevated its profile as a platform

that connects investors to long-term

growth opportunities. The inclusion of

exchange-traded funds (ETFs), derivatives,

and fixed-income instruments

further enriches the market, making

it more competitive with established

exchanges in Europe and Asia.

Technology as a Growth Catalyst

Technology has played a central role

in ADX’s transformation. The adoption

of advanced trading infrastructure has

streamlined transactions, enhanced

transparency, and reduced settlement

times. The exchange has embraced digital

platforms to expand accessibility,

enabling retail investors to participate

more easily while also meeting the

demands of institutional players.

Moreover, ADX has actively explored

blockchain and artificial intelligence

applications in market operations,

aiming to increase efficiency and bolster

trust. Partnerships with global

technology providers have further

strengthened its digital ecosystem,

ensuring alignment with international

best practices. These initiatives demonstrate

ADX’s forward-looking approach

to building a financial marketplace that

is future-ready.

Strengthening Regional and International

Connectivity

ADX’s rise has also been fuelled by its

integration with regional and global

capital markets. Cross-listings and

strategic collaborations have expanded

its reach, creating opportunities for

greater capital inflows. The exchange

has partnered with other GCC bourses to

encourage dual listings and strengthen

liquidity, while also building alliances

with international exchanges to attract

foreign capital.

This connectivity supports Abu

Dhabi’s vision of positioning itself as

a global financial centre. By providing

investors with seamless access to regional

assets, ADX has helped to bridge

the gap between the Middle East and

global markets. Foreign investor participation

continues to grow, supported

by transparent regulatory frameworks

and competitive transaction costs,

reinforcing the exchange’s reputation

as a trusted marketplace.

Regulatory Reforms and Investor

Confidence

Regulation has been a cornerstone of

ADX’s success. The UAE’s financial

authorities have implemented reforms

that prioritise investor protection, market

integrity, and transparency. These

measures have enhanced governance

standards and boosted investor confidence,

both critical for sustainable

growth.

The introduction of new corporate

governance codes, disclosure

The Abu Dhabi Securities

Exchange is a key

driver of economic

diversification, fostering

sustainable growth and

enhancing the UAE’s

position as a global

financial hub.”

H.E. Mohamed Hadi Al Hussaini, Minister

of State for Financial Affairs

requirements, and risk management

frameworks has positioned ADX as a

leader in compliance and accountability.

Such initiatives not only meet international

standards but also attract global

institutional investors who demand

stability and predictability in financial

markets. This commitment to regulatory

excellence has been instrumental in

reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s credibility as

a safe investment destination.

The Road Ahead

The exchange’s emphasis on digitalisation

and innovation will remain crucial

in attracting younger generations of

investors and ensuring inclusivity.

At the same time, partnerships with

global institutions will further integrate

ADX into the international financial

ecosystem, making it a gateway for

capital flows into the region.


has undergone a remarkable transformation,

evolving into a leading force

in regional capital markets.


Global News

Sharjah Chamber Reinforces Strategic Economic Partnership with Pakistan

The Sharjah Chamber of Commerce

and Industry (SCCI) has reaffirmed

its dedication to furthering

economic ties between Sharjah and

Pakistan, highlighting the longstanding

and robust relationship between

the UAE and the Islamic Republic of

Pakistan. The SCCI emphasized its

commitment to evolving these relations

into a new phase of strategic economic

partnership. This growth is supported

by the foresight of both countries’ leadership

and their successful business

communities, which have capitalized

on mutually beneficial investment opportunities.This

statement was made

during a business meeting hosted by the

Sharjah Chamber in collaboration with

the Pakistan Business Council at the

Sharjah Maritime Museum, coinciding

with the celebration of Pakistan’s Independence

Day. Al Owais pointed out that

this trade relationship is evolving into

a significant investment partnership,

with the UAE committing $10 billion

to high-potential sectors in Pakistan.

UAE Dominates Global Safety Rankings with Four

Cities in Top 10

Abu Dhabi has once again been

named the safest city in the

world, maintaining its top position

for the ninth consecutive year

since 2017, according to global data

platform Numbeo. The ranking reflects

the emirate’s advanced security

strategies, modern infrastructure, and

ongoing commitment to public safety. In

the same report, Ajman claimed second

place globally, while Dubai, Sharjah,

and Ras Al Khaimah also secured spots

in the world’s top 10 safest cities. Abu

Dhabi also ranked as the safest city

to walk alone at night, scoring 87 out

of 100 in a UK-based Travelbag study.

With well-lit streets, low crime rates,

and robust security measures, the city

offers residents and visitors a safe

environment for nighttime exploration.

UAE and Philippines

Boost Bilateral Trade

and Investment

Dr. Thain bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi,

UAE Minister of Foreign Trade,

met with the Philippines Business

Council in the UAE to discuss

expanding bilateral private sector

relations. This follows the agreement

on a CEPA in July, designed to foster

deeper trade cooperation and investment

opportunities between the two

nations. The discussion focused on

enhancing business partnerships and

identifying areas for further collaboration

between the private sectors of

both countries. He also highlighted the

significant progress made in economic

relations between the UAE and the

Philippines, noting that non-oil trade

between the two countries reached

$257.7 million in Q1 2025.

ADNOC Named Sixth Most Valuable Energy Brand Worldwide

Abu Dhabi National Oil Company

(ADNOC) has secured

its position among the world’s

top energy companies, ranking sixth

globally in Brand Finance’s 2025 Energy

100 report. The report highlights

ADNOC’s impressive brand value, now

estimated at US$19 billion, a 25 percent

increase from the previous year,

reflecting the group’s growing international

influence and performance.

ADNOC’s 25% year-on-year brand value

increase underscores its successful

transformation into a forward-thinking

international energy company. The

report evaluates global energy brands

based on factors including marketing

investment, business performance, and

stakeholder perceptions.


Trump Confirms No Tariffs

on Gold Imports

US President Donald Trump

announced on Monday that

imports of gold to the United

States would not be subject to tariffs.

His post on social media stated, “Gold

will not be Tariffed!” The comment

eased concerns that had unsettled

investors in recent days.

Gold futures remained largely unchanged

after the statement, though

the metal’s prices had declined earlier

on Monday. Traders had been watching

closely for policy clarification amid

mixed signals from Washington. Last

week, the White House said it would

introduce a new policy to determine

if gold bars would face duties. This

move followed a ruling by a US government

agency suggesting that such

imports could be taxed. The decision

had triggered market confusion and

volatility, with investors seeking clarity

on trade rules.

Italian Firm G&G

Establishes Regional

Base in RAK

G&G Composite, a leading Italian

manufacturer of advanced

composite and carbon fibre

components, is establishing its regional

operations in Ras Al Khaimah. The

family-owned company has leased over

10,000 ft² in the Al Hamra Industrial

Zone within Ras Al Khaimah Economic

Zone (RAKEZ) to serve markets across

the UAE and the wider region. The

lease signing took place at Compass

Coworking Centre in the presence of

G&G Composite President, CEO, and

Co-founder Stefano Asuni, alongside

RAKEZ Group CEO Ramy Jallad. The

facility is scheduled to become fully

operational in September and will

produce high-performance composite

components for industries including

automotive, motorsports, hypercars,

maritime, defence, aerospace, and

luxury interiors.

UAE Supplies Over Half of Japan’s Crude Oil Imports

in June 2025

The United Arab Emirates provided

52.1% of Japan’s total crude oil

imports in June 2025, delivering

over 31 million barrels, according to

official data released by Japan’s Agency

for Natural Resources and Energy

under the Ministry of Economy, Trade

and Industry. The data shows that

Japan’s total crude oil imports for the

month stood at 59.6 million barrels. Of

this volume, 97.7%, amounting to 58.2

million barrels, was sourced from Arab

countries, underscoring the continued

dominance of the Gulf region in Japan’s

energy supply chain. The UAE remains

a key strategic energy partner for Japan,

reinforcing the depth of bilateral

relations and energy interdependence.

CBUAE and Bank of South Sudan Boost

Cooperation


and the Bank of South Sudan

have signed a Memorandum of

Understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing

cooperation in several critical

financial areas, including security printing,

payment systems, and technical

training. The MoU signing ceremony

was attended by Sheikh Shakhbout bin

Nahyan Al Nahyan, Minister of State

in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and

Benjamin Bol Mel, Vice President of

South Sudan. It was signed on behalf

of the Governor of the Central Bank

of the UAE by Saif Humaid Al Dhaheri,

Assistant Governor for Banking

Operations and Support Services at

the Central Bank of the UAE, and Dr.

Addis Ababa Otto, Governor of the

Bank of South Sudan.

Santos Extends Due Diligence Period for $18.7

Billion ADNOC-led Bid

Australia’s Santos announced

that it has extended the period

of exclusive due diligence

for an international consortium led

by Abu Dhabi National Oil Company

(ADNOC). The offer, valued at $18.7

billion, targets Australia’s second-largest

gas producer. The new deadline for

the due diligence process is August 22.

The proposal, first revealed in mid-

June, includes ADNOC’s investment

arm XRG, Abu Dhabi Development

Holding Company (ADQ), and private

equity firm Carlyle. The consortium

had offered $5.76 (A$8.89) per Santos

share. XRG is now close to securing

a deal that would provide stakes in

significant operations across Australia

and Papua New Guinea, subject to regulatory

approval. Santos has already

voiced its support for the acquisition.


Interview

MANOJ SUREKA

CEO & Managing Partner,

Synergy Fin. Consulting


Dubai: A Magnet for Global

Millionaires

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 ventures.

Exclusive Interview

Why is Dubai attracting such a large

number of millionaires from around

the world?

Dubai offers a unique blend of safety,

tax efficiency, lifestyle, and business

opportunities. In the current global climate,

where high-tax regimes, political

uncertainty, and economic slowdown are

pushing wealthy individuals out of the

UK, Europe and parts of Asia, the UAE

provides stability, world-class infrastructure,

and a future-focused vision.

It’s not just about luxury; it’s about

wealth preservation, freedom of capital

movement, and access to fast-growing

markets.

What role does taxation play in this

migration trend?

The absence of personal income tax

and capital gains tax in the UAE is a

game-changer for high-net-worth individuals

(HNWIs).

Hence, zero personal tax and corporate

tax is very nominal at 9%. Tax efficiency

is the magnet, but stability, lifestyle,

and opportunity are the glue that keeps

wealthy families anchored in Dubai.

How does this influx impact the UAE’s

property and investment markets?

We’re seeing direct impact already. Luxury

property sales in Dubai hit record highs

in 2024, with multi-million dirham villas

and branded residences being snapped

up by global investors.

Beyond real estate, HNWIs are channeling

funds into private equity, startups,

and alternative assets. The real story isn’t

just about millionaires moving to Dubai,

it’s about how their presence is reshaping

real estate, finance, and entrepreneurship.

What industries stand to benefit the

most from this millionaire migration?

Real estate is the most visible winner,

but the ripple effect goes further. Hospitality,

private banking, fintech, family

offices, and even education are seeing

demand rise. Wealthy families are not

just buying homes, they’re setting up

companies, buying existing businesses

and using Dubai as a base to access Asia,

Africa, and Europe. Dubai is transforming

into both a lifestyle hub and a financial

powerhouse.

Every millionaire who relocates brings

not just wealth, but networks, businesses,

and opportunities that ripple across the

UAE economy.

Dubai’s magnet effect is not a short-term trend, it’s part of a

larger shift in global wealth flows.


Wheels

All-New McLaren 750S

Redefines Supercar

Performance


332 km/h

Top Speed

800 Nm

Torque

740 Hp

Horsepower

McLaren has unveiled the 750S,

its latest flagship supercar, setting

a new benchmark in lightweight

engineering and raw performance.

Building on the legacy of the 720S, the

750S introduces extensive refinements,

with nearly a third of its components

newly developed, making it McLaren’s

lightest and most powerful series-production

model to date. The car delivers

an exhilarating top speed of 332 km/h,

powered by a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre

V8 engine producing 740 bhp and 800 Nm

of torque, launching from 0 to 100 km/h

in just 2.8 seconds.

The exterior design, while retaining

the fluid lines of its predecessor, adopts a

more aggressive stance through a reprofiled

front splitter, new bumpers, larger

intakes, and a re-engineered active rear

wing. A centre-exit exhaust system derived

from the 765LT amplifies its distinctive

character, blending aerodynamic efficiency

with a dramatic visual appeal. The result is

a supercar that combines heritage styling

cues with advanced aerodynamics, ensuring

maximum stability and downforce

at high speeds.

Inside, the 750S continues McLaren’s

philosophy of minimalism with a cockpit

built around the driver. A new interface

integrates steering-linked displays and

simplified controls, with toggle switches

for performance modes positioned within

easy reach. Retaining the brand’s focus

on pure driving engagement, the steering

wheel remains uncluttered, while

lightweight materials and Alcantara

finishes contribute to a racing-inspired

atmosphere. A unique feature is the inclusion

of personalised drive mode recall,

activated through a roof-mounted button

marked with a kiwi bird emblem that

honours founder Bruce McLaren.

Technologically advanced yet driver-focused,

the 750S features a dual-clutch

7-speed gearbox for seamless shifts,

adaptive suspension for uncompromised

handling, and advanced braking for precise

control. The chassis, weighing just 1,326

kg in its lightest configuration, contributes

to a best-in-class power-to-weight

ratio. Practicality, though secondary in

a car of this calibre, is not overlooked,

with features such as a digital infotainment

system supporting Apple CarPlay

and Android Auto, as well as dual-zone

climate control for comfort.

The McLaren 750S arrives as more

than just the successor to the 720S. It

represents the pinnacle of McLaren’s V8

era, combining raw power with driver

engagement and technological innovation.

Positioned as a supercar that balances

track-ready performance with road-going

usability, it exemplifies the marque’s

dedication to evolution without compromise.

For enthusiasts and collectors, the

750S is a defining statement of modern

automotive engineering.


Real Estate


Al Jaddaf’s growing skyline highlights its transformation into Dubai’s emerging hub for affordable freehold living.

Dubai’s Freehold

Expansion: Is Al Jaddaf

Emerging as the City’s

Next Affordable Hub

Dubai’s Freehold Expansion is Reshaping the

Property Market, with Al Jaddaf Rising as a

Promising Affordable Hub.

Dubai’s dynamic real estate market continues

to evolve with its ambitious freehold

expansion, creating new opportunities

for both investors and residents. While

premium neighbourhoods such as Downtown

and Dubai Marina have traditionally

dominated attention, Al Jaddaf is steadily

emerging as a district that combines

affordability, accessibility, and growth

potential. Situated along Dubai Creek and

strategically connected to major business

and leisure hubs, the area offers compelling

value for buyers seeking centrality

without the high cost. As government

reforms strengthen investor confidence

and developers respond with mid-market

offerings, Al Jaddaf is positioning itself

as a key player in Dubai’s next phase of

urban and residential growth.


Dubai’s property market continues

to evolve with the city’s commitment

to expanding freehold

ownership, offering greater opportunities

for both local and international

investors. Among the areas witnessing

heightened interest, Al Jaddaf has been

attracting attention for its affordability,

strategic location, and increasing connectivity.

Traditionally overshadowed

by more established neighbourhoods,

the district is now positioning itself as

a promising hub for buyers and investors

seeking value-driven real estate

options. As Dubai’s growth trajectory

aligns with its vision of long-term urban

expansion, Al Jaddaf could play

a pivotal role in shaping the emirate’s

residential landscape.

The Growth Appeal of Al Jaddaf

Al Jaddaf’s transformation has been

remarkable. Once a relatively quiet

district, it has evolved into a fast-developing

neighbourhood that bridges

old and new Dubai. Located along the

western banks of the Dubai Creek,

the area offers excellent connectivity

to Business Bay, Downtown Dubai,

and Dubai International Airport. Its

central location is one of its strongest

advantages, attracting both residents

and investors seeking convenience

without the premium costs of prime

neighbourhoods.

In addition, the district benefits from

continuous infrastructure investment.

The expansion of the Dubai Metro’s

Green Line, improved road networks,

and proximity to major highways

enhance its appeal. Developers have

capitalised on this by introducing midrange

residential projects, offering

competitive price points compared to

neighbouring areas.

Affordable Opportunities in a

Rising Market

Dubai’s real estate market has witnessed

record-breaking sales volumes in recent

years, with a clear trend towards

both luxury and mid-market segments.

While established communities like

Downtown and Dubai Marina dominate

the luxury spectrum, districts such as

Al Jaddaf are gaining prominence for

offering affordability without compromising

connectivity.

The average property prices in Al

Jaddaf remain significantly lower than

central districts, allowing first-time

buyers and young families to enter

the market with relatively modest

budgets. Investors are also recognising

the potential for capital appreciation

as demand rises. Rental yields in the

area remain competitive, supported by

its central location and appeal to professionals

seeking affordable housing

near business districts.

A Balanced Lifestyle Proposition

Affordability is not Al Jaddaf’s only

selling point. The district’s development

strategy emphasises liveability,

combining residential, cultural, and

commercial elements. Proximity to

Dubai Healthcare City and educational

institutions adds to its attractiveness

for families, while leisure destinations

along Dubai Creek offer lifestyle benefits.

The presence of hotels, serviced

apartments, and cultural landmarks

such as the Mohammed Bin Rashid

Library further diversify its appeal.

The expansion of Dubai’s

freehold areas reflects our

commitment to enhancing

investment opportunities

and providing affordable,

well-connected

communities for residents

and investors alike.”

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

Economy

The mix of mid-range residential

towers, waterfront developments, and

community-centric amenities reflects

Dubai’s broader urban vision of creating

integrated neighbourhoods. By

striking a balance between affordability

and lifestyle offerings, Al Jaddaf is

increasingly positioned as a long-term

residential destination rather than a

transient housing option.

Investor Sentiment and Future

Growth

Investor sentiment towards Al Jaddaf

has been strengthening, buoyed by

Dubai’s overall market momentum and

the government’s focus on sustainable

urban development. The availability

of freehold properties in the district

has been a game-changer, widening

access for expatriates and overseas

buyers. Given Dubai’s record population

growth and the rising demand for

centrally located housing, Al Jaddaf is

set to benefit from sustained interest.

Future growth is also supported by

planned projects that integrate retail,

hospitality, and recreational facilities

into the district. As developers continue

to recognise demand in the mid-market

segment, Al Jaddaf is likely to see

more diversified offerings that appeal

to a broad demographic. The district’s

long-term prospects are further enhanced

by its location within Dubai’s

wider economic and infrastructural

development plans.

Challenges and Considerations

Despite its growing appeal, Al Jaddaf

faces challenges that could impact its

trajectory. Competition from other

emerging districts such as MBR City,

Dubai South, and Jumeirah Village

Circle may influence buyer preferences.

Additionally, maintaining the balance

between affordability and quality of

construction will be critical for sustaining

investor trust. Infrastructure

development, while promising, must

keep pace with the growing residential

demand to ensure the district’s longterm

liveability.

Market analysts caution that while

Al Jaddaf offers affordability today,

sustained demand could drive prices

upwards, potentially diminishing its

competitive edge. For buyers, early

investment may be best opportunity to

capitalise on current market conditions

before price adjustments occur.


Real Estate News

Nakheel Awards AED 2.6B Contract for Bay Villas at Dubai Islands

Nakheel has awarded a AED 2.6

billion (USD 708 million) contract

to Fibrex Contracting for the

development of the Bay Villas community

on Dubai Islands. This premium

waterfront project will encompass 636

luxury units across five categories,

including Townhouses, Semi-detached

Villas, Garden Villas, Waterfront Villas,

and Beachfront Villas. Residents will

benefit from exclusive beach access,

landscaped parks, a beach club, three

pool houses, and well-integrated lifestyle

amenities. The modern architectural

approach blends traditional wooden

finishes and arabesque details with

natural light to evoke Dubai’s heritage.

Positioned across five islands featuring

over 59 km of waterfront and 20 km

of beaches, Dubai Islands reflects Nakheel’s

vision of elevated, resort-style

island living close to Downtown and

the airport. This major contract marks

one of the most significant residential

developments in Dubai this year.

Saudi Arabia Clears

Digital ID Use for

Foreign Property

Ownership

Saudi Arabia’s Cabinet has approved

using a digital identification

system to enable non-Saudi,

non-resident foreigners to own property

in the Kingdom. This forward-looking

measure, coordinated by the General

Real Estate Authority along with the

Ministry of Interior, the Saudi Data and

AI Authority, and other bodies, will be

activated before the Non-Saudi Real

Estate Ownership Law takes effect

in January 2026. Under regulations,

foreign buyers must obtain a digital ID

via the Absher platform, open a Saudi

bank account, and secure a local mobile

number prior to purchasing or using

real estate. The rollout includes formal

mechanisms for ownership and usufruct

rights. This reform aims to modernize

property transactions, enhance transparency,

and align with Vision 2030’s

goal of diversifying the economy and

attracting global investment.

Bluewaters Leads Apartment Sales amid Villa-

Oriented Suburban Demand

Dubai’s residential property market

continues to show strong

dynamics, with Bluewaters

Island leading premium apartment

sales driven by its iconic lifestyle

appeal and strategic location near

Dubai Marina. Demand for suburban

villas is fueling growth in community

projects offering spacious layouts and

family-friendly environments. Buyers

are shifting toward larger homes that

offer comfort and value, supported by

enhanced infrastructure and transport

links that make suburban living more

accessible and attractive. This trend

reflects a broader recalibration in

buyer preferences toward expansive,

serene communities combined with

good connectivity. As a result, developments

featuring villa-style units are

seeing rapid uptake, while Bluewaters

retains dominance in luxury apartments,

highlighting the varied needs within

Dubai’s market.

Prypco Rolls Out Instant AI Valuations for

Dubai’s Fractional Real Estate

Prypco, a UAE-based PropTech

firm, has partnered with Ovaluate

to launch a groundbreaking

instant valuation engine for fractional

real estate investments. This tool is

integrated into Prypco Blocks, the

DFSA-regulated platform for buying

fractional or full property shares in

Dubai. Powered by Ovaluate’s AI-driven

Automated Valuation Model, the system

generates accurate, regulator-approved

valuations in under 10 seconds. It

draws from real-time market data and

global valuation standards to ensure

transparency and impartiality. Prypco’s

founder underscored the critical

need for speed and trust in fractional

investing, saying that this capability

empowers investors with data-backed

insights instantly. The launch marks a

significant step toward democratizing

access to property markets, catering to

global investors by reducing barriers

to entry and enhancing confidence in

fractional ownership.


Dubai Sees Surge in Property Maintenance amid Sharp Residence Growth

Dubai has seen a notable spike

in demand for premium home

maintenance services, fueled

by booming growth in branded residential

properties. Sales of branded

units jumped 43 percent in 2024 to

over 13,000 transactions, while the

inventory now covers more than 132

developments and 43,000 units, a total

expected to more than double by

2030. Buyers of these residences are

willing to pay up to 69 percent more

than for non-branded counterparts,

and they expect services that uphold

the luxury standards of their homes.

To meet those expectations, firms like

Hitches & Glitches have invested in

smart platforms for real-time request

tracking, remote approvals, and digital

payments. Their home maintenance

arm now manages over 1,500 active

annual contracts valued at more than

AED 26 million, aligning top-tier service

with the elevated needs of branded

residency owners.

Sharjah Real Estate

Records Strong July

Performance

Sharjah’s real estate sector posted

a robust performance in July

2025, underlining the emirate’s

continued role as a competitive and

affordable alternative to neighbouring

markets. Official data revealed

notable activity across residential,

commercial, and industrial segments,

signalling healthy investor confidence.

Demand was particularly strong for

mid-range housing, which continues to

attract both local buyers and regional

investors seeking value-driven opportunities.

The emirate’s infrastructure

investments, coupled with regulatory

reforms that encourage property

ownership, have played a pivotal role

in boosting confidence. Sharjah’s positioning

as a family-friendly, cost-effective

environment is driving steady

inflows, while ongoing developments

in retail and community projects are

further enhancing the city’s real estate

profile.

Abu Dhabi’s Al Reem Island Property Market Sees

Renewed Demand

Abu Dhabi’s Al Reem Island

has emerged as one of the

capital’s most dynamic real

estate hotspots, with both investors

and end-users showing heightened

interest in residential and mixed-use

properties. The island’s appeal stems

from its prime waterfront location,

modern infrastructure, and lifestyle

offerings that combine leisure, retail,

and cultural attractions. Developers

have been quick to capitalise on this

Dubai’s commercial property market

continued to perform strongly in

July 2025, reflecting sustained investor

appetite for offices, retail spaces,

and mixed-use developments. According

to market figures, sales activity recorded

consistent growth across prime business

districts, driven by rising demand from

regional and international companies

establishing or expanding their presence

in the emirate. Dubai’s position as a

global hub for trade, and innovation has

demand by unveiling new projects

designed to meet the growing appetite

for premium living. Analysts note

that the area is becoming a preferred

destination for young professionals,

families, and overseas buyers seeking

long-term investment opportunities.

The upward trajectory in transaction

volumes highlights Abu Dhabi’s

broader strategy of positioning itself

as a resilient and attractive property

market in the region.

Dubai Commercial Property Sales Maintain

Momentum in July

reinforced its attractiveness for commercial

investors. Additionally, government-led

initiatives to diversify the economy and

support entrepreneurship have encouraged

more businesses to secure physical

space in the city. The upward trend also

underscores the resilience of Dubai’s

property sector, which continues to adapt

to business needs while maintaining its

reputation as one of the world’s most

sought-after destinations for commercial

real estate investment.


Opinion

Louis Harding

CEO of Betterhomes

Dubai’s Branded

Residences Outperform

the Global Market with

Premiums Reaching

More than 100%

Dubai’s skyline is no stranger to

icons. But today, alongside the

towers that have defined its rise,

a new story is being written, one shaped

by some of the world’s most recognisable

names. From Bugatti and Mercedes-Benz

to Armani and Six Senses, branded residences

are now setting the pace for luxury

living in Dubai. Globally, the sector

has expanded 160% in the last decade,

but nowhere is the momentum stronger

than in Dubai.

Luxury real estate is evolving. A home is no

longer simply where you live, but a reflection

of identity and aspiration. In Dubai, branded

residences already command around a 40%

premium compared to traditional homes, and

with more than 140 projects set for delivery by

2031, the city is clearly leading a global shift in

how we live and invest.”


More than a Home

What began with hotel names like

Ritz-Carlton and Four Seasons has evolved

into something more personal. Automotive

pioneers, fashion houses, and wellness

leaders are now embedding their identity

into the way people live. Buyers have

responded: in Dubai, branded residences

already command around a 40% premium

compared to traditional homes.

Dubai’s Leadership

Dubai has quickly established itself as the

benchmark for this global transformation.

Already home to 61 completed branded

residences with 100 more currently in

development, the city’s pipeline is unmatched.

Projects like Bugatti Residences

in Business Bay achieve premiums close

to +198%, while Armani Beach Residences

and Mercedes-Benz Places both exceed

+130%, evidence that lifestyle-led developments

consistently outperform their

peers.

What we’re seeing is the

evolution of luxury real

estate into something more

personal, a home that mirrors

the client’s identity and

aspiration. In Dubai, branded

residences consistently

outperform the market, often

achieving premiums of over

100%. With the MENA region

forecast to hold a quarter of

global supply by 2030, Dubai

has established itself as the

benchmark for lifestyle-led

investment.”

Living Well and Investing Wisely

For homeowners, this new generation

of branded residences means a curated

lifestyle, where values and aspirations

are built into the walls around them.

For investors, it represents long-term

confidence, with stronger resale values

and faster sales cycles than traditional

luxury properties.

More than towers, more than names on

a façade, branded residences are becoming

the new language of Dubai luxury. And in

doing so, they’re setting a standard the

rest of the world is now trying to match.


Investment


Gulf sovereign wealth funds boost investments in US technology, renewable energy, and infrastructure sectors.

US-Gulf Investment

Ties: How Much Are

They Really Worth in

2025?

US-Gulf Investment Ties in 2025 Reveal Shifting

Priorities, Strategic Partnerships, and Shared

Growth Opportunities.

The investment relationship between the

United States and the Gulf region has

long been a cornerstone of global finance,

shaped by oil wealth, trade, and strategic

partnerships. In 2025, however, these ties

are being redefined as Gulf states accelerate

diversification agendas and channel

capital into technology, renewable energy,

and infrastructure. For the US, Gulf

sovereign wealth funds represent both

opportunity and influence, while for Gulf

nations, American innovation remains

highly attractive. This evolving dynamic

raises pressing questions about the real

value, resilience, and future direction of

US-Gulf investment ties in an increasingly

competitive global landscape.


The relationship between the

United States and the Gulf Cooperation

Council (GCC) has

always been shaped by a mix of energy

trade, security partnerships, and

economic collaboration. However, as

the global economy evolves and Gulf

nations accelerate their diversification

efforts, investment flows have become

a central pillar of this partnership. In

2025, the value of US-Gulf investment

ties is under scrutiny, with both sides

assessing whether the relationship is

delivering the expected returns and

how it can adapt to shifting priorities.

Historically, Gulf wealth has flowed

into the United States through sovereign

wealth funds, real estate, and equities.

The region’s oil revenues, managed

through large investment vehicles

such as the Abu Dhabi Investment

Authority (ADIA), Kuwait Investment

Authority (KIA), and Saudi Arabia’s

Public Investment Fund (PIF), have

long been parked in American assets.

These investments provided the Gulf

with stability and strong returns, while

the US benefited from significant capital

inflows that bolstered its financial

markets. In recent years, however,

the balance has started to shift, with

Gulf nations demanding more strategic

partnerships that extend beyond

traditional asset allocations.

Strategic Investment Shifts: Technology,

Energy, and Economic

Diversification

In 2025, Gulf investors are prioritising

sectors aligned with their national visions.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, the

UAE’s Centennial 2071, and Qatar’s

National Vision 2030 all place emphasis

on technology, renewable energy, infrastructure,

and healthcare. As a result,

US companies in these industries are

attracting greater interest from Gulf

sovereign funds and private investors.

Tech giants, clean energy firms, and

biotech start-ups have become magnets

for Gulf capital, reflecting the region’s

aim to position itself at the forefront

of future industries. This pivot has

strengthened bilateral investment ties

but has also introduced new expectations

for reciprocity.

For the US, Gulf investment remains

highly valuable, particularly at a time

when competition from Asia is intensifying.

Gulf sovereign wealth funds

collectively manage assets worth over

USD 4 trillion, representing one of the

largest pools of capital in the world.

Attracting a share of these funds is a

priority for American businesses and

policymakers alike. The United States

continues to offer Gulf investors a

combination of stability, transparency,

and innovation that is difficult to

match elsewhere. However, with Gulf

nations also looking east towards China

and India, the US must work harder

to sustain its appeal as a preferred

investment destination.

The geopolitical context adds another

layer of complexity. US-Gulf ties are

no longer defined solely by energy

dependency, as American shale production

has reduced reliance on Gulf

oil. Instead, both sides are exploring

how capital flows can sustain their

strategic partnership. For Washington,

Gulf investment provides a means of

reinforcing political alliances, while

for Gulf capitals, investing in the US

remains a way to strengthen influence

and access cutting-edge industries. This

symbiotic relationship is evolving into

one where money is not just a financial

instrument but also a tool of diplomacy.

Evolving Bilateral Partnerships:

Reciprocity, Regulatory Challenges,

and Diplomatic Capital

Yet challenges persist. Differences in

regulatory frameworks, tax regimes,

and business cultures often complicate

partnerships. Gulf investors have

sometimes found the US regulatory

environment restrictive, while American

firms face hurdles navigating Gulf

markets, where state-driven policies

can shift quickly. Moreover, political

tensions occasionally spill over into

the economic domain, raising questions

about the long-term predictability of

investment ties. In 2025, both sides are

under pressure to build mechanisms

that insulate financial collaboration

from geopolitical volatility.

The role of energy transition cannot

be overstated. As Gulf countries invest

heavily in renewables and the US

accelerates its own decarbonisation

efforts, there is a growing intersection

of interests in clean technology. Gulf

sovereign funds are deploying billions

into American renewable energy companies,

while US firms are providing

expertise for Gulf solar and hydrogen

projects. This area of cooperation has

the potential to redefine the value of

Strengthening US-

Gulf investment ties is

essential for advancing

diversification and

creating sustainable

economic growth.”

His Excellency Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al

Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of State for Foreign

Trade

the partnership, shifting it away from

hydrocarbons towards sustainable

energy solutions that align with global

climate goals.

Despite these promising developments,

questions remain about whether

the investment relationship is truly

balanced. Gulf nations are increasingly

seeking returns beyond financial profit,

including knowledge transfer, access

to technology, and partnerships that

help build domestic industries. The

US, while receptive, must demonstrate

flexibility in meeting these demands. If

American firms can deliver long-term

value in areas aligned with Gulf national

strategies, the investment relationship

will thrive. Otherwise, the Gulf may

redirect more capital towards Asian

and European partners who are eager

to accommodate their ambitions.

The strength of US-Gulf investment

ties in 2025 lies not only in financial

flows but in their strategic alignment

with future industries. By linking Gulf

capital with American innovation, both

sides stand to benefit from technology.


Energy News

ADNOC Group Delivers $4.7B Profit in First Half of 2025

ADNOC Group reported a combined

net profit of AED 17.3 billion

(USD 4.7 billion) across its six

listed companies during the first half

of 2025, supported by strong operational

efficiency and advanced digital

transformation. Artificial intelligence

applications across upstream and

downstream activities enhanced project

delivery and boosted profitability. ADNOC

Logistics & Services achieved revenue

of AED 4.62 billion (USD 1.26 billion),

reflecting a 40 percent increase, while

EBITDA grew 31 percent to AED 1.47

billion (USD 400 million). Fertiglobe

and Borouge also posted solid earnings

growth, highlighting the benefits

of ADNOC’s integrated strategy. The

strong financial performance has enabled

sustained dividend distribution to

shareholders and reinforced ADNOC’s

position as a leading energy company.

TAQA Revenue Rises

but Profit Falls in H1

2025

Abu Dhabi National Energy

Company (TAQA) reported

revenue of AED 28.4 billion

(USD 7.73 billion) for the first half

of 2025, representing a 4.5 percent

year-on-year increase. The rise came

mainly from higher pass-through costs

in its Transmission and Distribution

segment, reflecting strong demand and

system expansion. EBITDA declined 11

percent to AED 10.2 billion, while net

income dropped 19.7 percent to AED

3.7 billion, impacted by lower oil and

gas production following the closure

of UK assets, weaker hydrocarbon

prices, higher financing costs, and

non-recurring charges. TAQA continued

to strengthen its balance sheet by

reducing gross debt to AED 61.7 billion.

It also raised capital expenditure to

AED 5.2 billion, focusing on power

generation, transmission upgrades,

desalination, and international growth

across Morocco, Uzbekistan, and the

United Kingdom.

Empower to Construct 47,000 RT District Cooling

Plant at Dubai Science Park

Emirates Central Cooling Systems

Corporation (Empower)

has signed a contract to design

a new district cooling plant at Dubai

Science Park, boasting a total capacity

of 47,000 Refrigeration Tons (RT). The

facility will cater to nearly 80 mixeduse

buildings, including residential,

commercial, and research facilities.

Construction is scheduled to begin by

the end of 2026. The plant will feature

Saudi Aramco has signed an $11

billion lease-and-leaseback agreement

with a consortium led by

Global Infrastructure Partners under

BlackRock for its Jafurah gas assets.

The deal covers the Jafurah Field Gas

Plant and Riyas NGL Fractionation

Facility, granting the consortium a 49

percent stake while Aramco retains 51

percent. Under the agreement, Aramco

will lease the facilities for 20 years,

paying tariffs to Jafurah Midstream

Gas Company (JMGC), which holds

exclusive rights to process all gas volumes.

The structure ensures no limits

on Aramco’s production output while

enabling strategic investment in its

growing gas portfolio. The transaction

strengthens Aramco’s access to capital

cutting-edge technologies such as

thermal energy storage systems, and

treated sewage effluent systems to

minimize fresh water usage. AI systems

will also be integrated to enhance operational

efficiency and sustainability.

Empower currently commands over 80

% of Dubai’s district cooling market

and continues investing in modern,

eco-friendly infrastructure to support

the city’s green ambitions.

Aramco Secures $11B Jafurah Gas Agreement

with BlackRock-Led Consortium

and supports Saudi Arabia’s plans to

expand its natural gas sector as part of

its long-term energy transition strategy.


Masdar Shortlisted to Buy 49% Stake in Iberdrola’s Solar-Wind Portfolio

Masdar has been shortlisted

alongside Norway’s sovereign

wealth manager Norges Bank

Investment Management and Australia’s

Fortescue to acquire a 49 percent

stake in Iberdrola’s “Proyecto Julieta,”

a renewable energy portfolio in Spain

with an estimated capacity of around

1 GW. The deal, valued at a minimum

of €900 million, represents one of the

largest renewable transactions currently

underway in Europe. Proyecto Julieta

combines a diverse mix of solar and

onshore wind projects across Spain,

reinforcing the country’s position as a

leading hub for clean energy investment.

For Masdar, the move underscores

its continued ambition to expand its

global renewable footprint, building on

its growing pipeline of solar and wind

projects across Europe, Asia, and the

Middle East. Iberdrola, is pursuing its

asset rotation model, which involves

divesting minority stakes to raise capital

for debt reduction.

DEWA Reports Record

First Half Results in

2025

Dubai Electricity and Water

Authority (DEWA) posted its

best-ever first half financial

performance in 2025, achieving revenue

of AED 14.6 billion, up 6.9 percent

compared to the same period in 2024,

and net profit of AED 2.9 billion, a

13.2 percent increase. EBITDA rose

5.3 percent to AED 7.0 billion, while

operating profit climbed 12.6 percent

to AED 3.7 billion. Operating cash flow

also surged 61.3 percent to AED 9.2

billion, reflecting stronger efficiency

and demand growth. DEWA has approved

a dividend payout of AED 3.1

billion to shareholders in October.

Growth was supported by rising demand

for electricity, water, and district

cooling services, alongside strategic

investment in clean energy projects,

smart grid technology, and desalination

capacity. In the second quarter

alone, DEWA delivered record results

with revenue growth of 9.8 percent and

profit up 25.8 percent.

Dana Gas Posts Higher Profit Despite Lower

H1 2025 Revenue

Dana Gas, the region’s largest

private-sector natural gas company,

recorded a net profit of

AED 270 million (USD 73.5 million) in

the first half of 2025, up 2.6 percent

from the previous year. This increase

came despite a decline in revenue to

AED 627 million (USD 170.7 million)

compared to AED 696 million in H1

2024, mainly due to lower hydrocarbon

prices and reduced output from Egypt.

Operations in Iraq helped support

performance, with daily production

exceeding 500 million standard cubic

feet of gas per day. The company advanced

on major projects including the

KM250 expansion and Chemchemal development

in KRI, while also achieving

success with its first exploratory well

in Egypt. Dana Gas remains confident

in its growth strategy and shareholder

value creation.

ADNOC L&S JV Receives First Large Ethane Carrier

AW Shipping, the joint venture

between ADNOC Logistics &

Services and Wanhua Chemical

Group, has taken delivery of Gas Yongjiang,

the first of nine advanced Very

Large Ethane Carriers (VLECs) built by

Jiangnan Shipyard in China. The vessel

will begin operations under a 20-year time

charter agreement, with the remaining

eight VLECs scheduled for delivery between

2025 and 2027. Once the full fleet

is operational, AW Shipping will manage

one of the world’s largest ethane shipping

fleets. These purpose-built vessels, each

with a capacity of about 98,000 cubic

metres, feature optimized hull designs

and energy-saving technologies to enhance

efficiency and reduce emissions.

The full deployment is expected to generate

roughly USD 4B in revenue over

a combined contract term of 180 years.


Promotion

HOW THE ELITE CARS

Sets the Standard in Luxury

More than a dealership, The Elite Cars set the benchmark in the UAE’s automotive landscape, blending

legacy with vision to deliver an experience that redefines what it means to drive with distinction.


Built on Legacy, Driven by Innovation

With decades of expertise, The Elite Cars has

established itself as a trusted authority in

luxury motoring. This legacy of reliability is

paired with a forward-looking approach,

curating a handpicked selection of the latest

models, introducing cutting-edge automotive

technologies, and ensuring that clients always

remain a step ahead of the curve.

A Handpicked Portfolio of Prestige

The showroom is a stage for excellence. With

over 100 cars under one roof, The Elite Cars

offers a portfolio of a handpicked selection of

cars that spans the most sought-after cars by

true connoisseurs. Each car is carefully

selected to meet the highest standards of

performance, design, and exclusivity, making

every acquisition a statement of prestige.

Designed for the Elite

Clients expect more than a purchase; they expect an experience

tailored to their status and lifestyle. The Elite Cars delivers a

personalized, unique experience designed for its customers who

truly value excellence. With consistently strong ratings and

outstanding testimonials, the brand’s reputation is built on

decades of automotive expertise and an uncompromising

dedication to client satisfaction, whether in person or online.

More Than a Dealer, A Destination

The Elite Cars is the place to buy luxury vehicles and a destination

where refinement meets reliability. By setting the standard for

quality, trust, and innovation in the region, The Elite Cars goes

beyond the traditional dealership model, establishing itself as the

definitive name in luxury automotive experiences. In a market where

the prestige leads, The Elite Cars continues to set the tone for what

true luxury means: timeless, tailored, and always ahead of time.

Visit The Elite Cars Showroom at Sheikh Zayed Road & Al Quoz

800-535-483

www.theelitecars.com

theelitecarsshowroom

Subsidiary of


Finance


UAE businesses face mounting scrutiny as financial sanctions test regulatory frameworks.

Why Are UAE Companies

Facing Financial

Sanctions Despite

Regulatory Safeguards

Financial Sanctions on the UAE Firms Highlight

Compliance Gaps, Urging Stronger Alignment

with Global Regulatory.

The United Arab Emirates has established

itself as a global financial hub, supported

by a strong regulatory framework designed

to uphold transparency, accountability,

and investor confidence. Yet, despite

these safeguards, several UAE companies

continue to face financial sanctions

internationally. This paradox raises critical

questions about the effectiveness of

compliance practices, the complexities

of cross-border regulations, and the increasing

scrutiny from global oversight

bodies. As international standards evolve,

the pressure on UAE businesses to adapt

becomes more urgent, highlighting the

need for robust governance, proactive

compliance, and greater alignment with

global financial systems.


The UAE has invested significantly

in strengthening its financial

system’s resilience, particularly

by introducing robust anti-money laundering

(AML) and counter-terrorism

financing (CTF) frameworks. Over the

past few years, the government has implemented

far-reaching reforms aimed

at improving corporate transparency,

enhancing financial reporting standards,

and aligning with the expectations of

global watchdogs such as the Financial

The inspection campaigns

represent a key pillar

of our strategy to foster

a transparent and wellgoverned

business

environment in the UAE. By

implementing proactive

monitoring mechanisms to

counter money laundering

and terrorism financing

risks, we are reinforcing

the UAE’s reputation

as a secure, globally

compliant economic hub

that upholds the highest

international standards.”

H.E. Safia Hashem Al-Safi, Assistant Undersecretary

for Commercial Control and

Governance at the Ministry of Economy

Action Task Force. These measures

have provided companies with a strong

framework to mitigate risks and avoid

regulatory breaches. However, despite

these efforts, some organisations are

still struggling to meet the fast-evolving

expectations of international regulators,

suggesting that internal lapses and

inadequate execution of compliance

programmes remain pressing issues.

A key reason sanctions continue

to surface lies in the gap between

regulatory design and corporate execution.

While regulations in the UAE

are comprehensive, enforcement at the

company level often varies depending

on the maturity of compliance systems

and the willingness of leadership to invest

in rigorous monitoring. Businesses

that treat compliance as a box-ticking

exercise, rather than an integral part

of their governance culture, are more

prone to attracting penalties. This

misalignment highlights the importance

of corporate governance frameworks

that not only comply with domestic

standards but also anticipate international

requirements.

Compliance Gaps and International

Scrutiny

The pace at which global compliance

expectations evolve adds another layer

of complexity. Regulators abroad are

increasingly demanding proactive

disclosures, heightened due diligence,

and real-time monitoring of financial

activities. Companies in the UAE that

fail to keep up with these rising standards

risk being penalised even if they

are technically compliant with local

laws. For example, gaps in beneficial

ownership transparency or insufficient

monitoring of cross-border transactions

often trigger international scrutiny.

These areas require constant upgrades

to technology systems, training of personnel,

and active communication with

regulators to ensure that compliance

is not only achieved but demonstrable

in practice.

Another dimension of this challenge

lies in the international perception

of the UAE as a rapidly growing hub

for finance, trade, and investment.

Its prominence naturally subjects its

companies to greater scrutiny from

global regulators, particularly in jurisdictions

where cross-border financial

flows are highly regulated. Sanctions

in such cases are not always reflective

of deliberate misconduct but can stem

from administrative oversights or the

inability to adapt quickly to regulatory

changes abroad. Nonetheless, the

reputational risks remain significant,

and companies must invest in building

compliance systems that are not only

robust but also flexible enough to adapt

to these evolving standards.

The rise of technology has introduced

both opportunities and challenges in

addressing these risks. Digital tools

such as artificial intelligence and blockchain-based

systems are increasingly

being used to enhance compliance

monitoring and detect irregular transactions

more effectively. However,

companies that lag in adopting such

technologies often struggle to meet

international expectations. The investment

required in technology, expertise,

and systems integration is substantial,

but it is becoming non-negotiable for

businesses aiming to maintain credibility

in global markets. Failure to adapt

leaves companies vulnerable not only

to sanctions but also to exclusion from

lucrative cross-border deals.

The Way Forward for UAE

Companies

To address the issue effectively, companies

need to move beyond reactive

compliance and adopt a more strategic

approach that integrates risk management

into business planning. This

involves developing corporate cultures

where compliance is seen as an enabler

of long-term growth rather than a regulatory

burden. Continuous training,

leadership commitment, and investment

in advanced monitoring tools are central

to this transformation. Additionally,

engaging with regulators proactively

and maintaining open communication

channels can help businesses navigate

evolving requirements while avoiding

costly penalties.

The UAE government has demonstrated

its commitment to supporting

this transformation through a series of

initiatives, including the introduction

of beneficial ownership registers,

enhanced reporting obligations, and

stronger collaboration with international

regulators. These steps provide

companies with the necessary guidance

and tools to strengthen their compliance

mechanisms. However, the onus

ultimately lies with corporate leaders

to translate these frameworks into

actionable strategies that safeguard

their businesses.


Business News

Galadari Engineering Adapts to Shifts in the UAE Steel Market

The UAE’s steel fabrication industry

is experiencing rapid transformation

as economic growth surges

in the real estate, construction, and

oil and gas sectors. In this dynamic

environment, Galadari Engineering has

taken proactive steps to thrive amid

rising expectations for speed, quality,

and unwavering excellence. The firm is

addressing a regional talent shortage

by investing in training and building an

inclusive work culture that nurtures

skilled engineers, supervisors, and

fabricators. Rising operational costs

and stiff competition from global

players are prompting the company

to adopt leaner financial strategies

and sharpen service differentiation.

Galadari Engineering’s forward-looking

strategy includes embracing advanced

manufacturing technologies and digital

tools to streamline workflows.

Dubai Chamber of

Digital Economy

Boosts 127 Startups in

First Quarter of 2025

In the first quarter of 2025, the

Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy

provided substantial support to 127

digital startups, marking a remarkable

135% growth compared to the same

period last year. This dramatic increase

reflects the chamber’s proactive efforts

to position Dubai as a thriving global

centre for technology-driven innovation

and entrepreneurship. Across

the quarter, the chamber organised

four industry-focused events aimed at

empowering the business community,

nurturing startup talent, forging strategic

partnerships, and streamlining the

ease of doing business in the emirate.

Digital upskilling was also a priority,

with 729 individuals benefiting from

training programmes designed to build

job-ready capabilities in advanced

technology sectors. Supplementing

these efforts, the ‘Business in Dubai’

platform expanded its service network

by welcoming 20 new partners, bringing

the total to 114 at the end of Q1.

Dubai to Install 200 Ultra-Fast EV Charging

Stations, Slashing Charging Time

Dubai is embarking on a major

expansion of its electric vehicle

infrastructure through a landmark

10-year partnership between its

main parking operator, Parkin, and

charge&go—part of the e& technology

group. Launching in October 2025,

the initiative will initially deploy 20

ultra-fast DC charging stations in

high-demand areas such as residential

neighborhoods, shopping hubs, and

leisure zones, with the full network

Du, the UAE’s telecom operator,

has launched an innovative feature

called “Salary in the Digital

Wallet” (SITW) that allows residents

to receive their wages directly in their

du Pay digital wallets. Upon signing

up, users receive a unique IBAN that

enables employers to deposit salaries

instantly, giving employees immediate

access to their funds through both the

app and an optional physical du Pay

card. This account can be opened with

no minimum balance requirement,

making it especially accessible for

workers earning less than AED 5,000

per month who may struggle with access

to traditional banking services. The

multilingual du Pay platform offers a

range of services, including local and

international money transfers, bill

payments, telecommunications top-ups,

growing to 200 over the following year.

These advanced chargers will reduce

EV charging times to under 30 minutes,

a notable improvement over slower AC

systems, and support the city’s sustainability

goals under the Dubai 2040

Urban Master Plan. The system features

a digital-first “park and charge” model

that operates through Parkin’s mobile

app, allowing users to reserve charging

bays, monitor real-time charging status,

and complete secure payments.

Du Pay Unveils ‘Salary in the Digital Wallet’

Feature to Empower Underbanked Workers

and debit card issuance. The SITW feature

not only speeds up financial access

but also supports financial inclusion

and remittance needs, especially for

expatriates sending money abroad.


ADIB Capital Launches Sharia-Compliant Trade Opportunities Fund

ADIB Capital, the investment arm

of Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank, has

unveiled the ADIB Islamic Trade

Opportunities Fund, a Sharia-compliant

investment vehicle incorporated in the

Dubai International Financial Centre

(DIFC) and regulated by the DFSA. Targeting

professional clients and market

counterparties, the fund focuses on

short-duration trade finance opportunities

in developed markets—primarily

the United States and Europe. It operates

under the principle of delivering

risk-adjusted returns with smooth

quarterly payouts while maintaining

low volatility through a diversified investment

pool. The fund’s underlying

assets are managed in collaboration with

Goldman Sachs Alternatives, delivering

institutional-level risk control and

private credit expertise. An oversight

Sharia Supervisory Board ensures all

investments adhere strictly to Islamic

finance principles, avoiding interest

(riba) and uncertainty (gharar).

The Hospitality

Network Launches

Riyadh Office to Fuel

Saudi Hospitality

Growth

The Hospitality Network, a leading

platform connecting decision-makers

in hospitality and

real estate, has expanded into Saudi

Arabia with the launch of a Riyadh

outpost in partnership with AstroLabs.

This new hub will serve as a strategic

base for industry gatherings, bespoke

one-on-one meetings, immersive experience

rooms, and curated awards

events aimed at fostering innovation

and sustainable growth across Saudi

Arabia’s hospitality and real estate

sectors. The move comes on the

heels of The Hospitality Network’s

successful Stakeholder Gathering in

Riyadh earlier this year and aligns with

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 ambition

to emerge as a global tourism and development

powerhouse. According to

their expansion director, establishing

a local presence allows more meaningful

engagement with stakeholders,

strengthens regional connectivity, and

positions the platform to catalyse

new collaborations and discovery of

bespoke business opportunities across

the Kingdom.

UAE Investors Rally Around Local Stocks

A

recent eToro survey covering 1,000

UAE-based retail investors reveals

that 85 % are currently invested in

UAE-listed equities, with 39 % focusing

on Abu Dhabi stocks, 28 % on Dubai

names, and 18 % in both markets. The

findings underscore strong faith in the

UAE economy, with 63 % of respondents

expressing they are “very confident” in

its current performance and nearly 60

% equally confident about long-term

prospects. Despite concerns over trade

Shurooq, the Sharjah Investment

and Development Authority, has

committed over AED 300 million

to construct the “Sharjah Collection,”

a portfolio of seven luxury eco-retreats

embracing the booming slow-travel and

wellness tourism market. These destinations

span diverse and scenic landscapes,

from desert dunes and coastal mangroves

to mountain valleys and heritage villages,

and together offer 154 high-end accommodation

units. The eco-retreats provide

immersive, restorative experiences,

blending luxury with sustainability and

cultural richness, and are designed to

appeal to travellers seeking authentic,

mindful escapes. Notable examples include

tensions, anticipated to significantly

impact portfolios by 90 %, according to

respondents, investors are reinforcing

local positions, dividing their strategies

between stocks and commodities like

gold as a hedge. Almost half expect substantial

gains in the UAE stock market

in the coming year, while a further 34 %

foresee steady growth. The data suggest

a resilient and adaptive investing community

focused on domestic opportunity

and risk management.

Shurooq Invests AED 300M in Eco-Retreats to

Ride Global Slow-Travel Trend

the Kingfisher Retreat with sea-facing

tents in Kalba, the heritage-based Najd Al

Meqsar in Khorfakkan, and Al Faya lodge

in Mleiha’s desert. With wellness tourism

projected to exceed USD 1 trillion in 2025

and the slow travel market growing at

roughly 10% annually, Shurooq’s strategic

investment reinforces Sharjah’s vision to

become a regional leader in conscious

tourism.


Opinion

Firas Al Msaddi

CEO of fäm Properties

Dubai’s Population to

Soar Past 5 Million by

2030, Driving Demand for

Half a Million New Homes

Dubai’s population is on course to

hit the five-million mark by 2030

after surpassing a new milestone

today as one of the world’s fastest-growing

cities.

The city’s population officially moved

past the four-million mark this morning,

as revealed in a market update from

DXBinteract, which tracks Dubai’s demographic

evolution, growth path, and

its impact on the property sector. The

report states that the addition of more

than one million residents before the end

of 2030 will create demand for around


350,000 new homes, based on the average

household size. But allowing for multiple-home

owners, non-resident buyers,

normal vacancy levels, and the need to

replace older buildings, that total could

reach 500,000.

Based on data from the Dubai Statistics

Centre, the report says that Dubai has

added over 231,000 new residents since

last year, a 6.13% increase. Since 2011,

Dubai’s population has doubled in size,

growing from 1.93 million to four million

in just 14 years, representing a major shift

in demographic figures.

The city’s rapid expansion

stems from a sustained

influx of expatriates,

global investors, and

talent attracted by Dubai’s

tax-free environment,

infrastructure, and

business-friendly

policies.”

Key Real Estate Highlights:

• Market structure: Over 3,000 developers

and 40,000 agents expected by 2030,

with consolidation among agencies and

a bigger role for AI-led platforms.

• Luxury expansion: HNWI migration

will keep prime communities such as

Palm Jebel Ali, Dubai Hills, and Emaar

Beachfront in the global spotlight.

• Rental yields: Average 6–7% yields, with

select micro-markets delivering 8–9%.

Four Key Factors Driving Dubai’s population:

• Job opportunities: A thriving business

ecosystem attracting global talent.

• Investor-friendly environment: No

income tax, full foreign ownership in

free zones, and attractive visa options.

• Lifestyle & infrastructure: High-quality

healthcare, education, luxury living.

• Global events: EXPO 2020’s legacy and

upcoming mega projects continue to

draw global attention and residents.

With more people comes more demand for housing, transportation, retail, and

services. Dubai’s population growth is a key driver behind rising real estate demand

and infrastructure investment. Whether you’re a property buyer, developer, or

business owner, keeping track of Dubai’s population trends can help you make

smarter, data-driven decisions.”

5.5

Dubai’s Population Growth as a Skyline (2011-2025, Forecast 2030)

5.0

2030 Forecast: 5M+

4.5

Population (Millions)

4.0

3.5

3.0

+270K Biggest Jump

2025: 4M Milestone

2.5

2.0

1.5

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

2024

2025

2030

Year Population Change

2020 3,400,171 3.03% (100K)

2021 3,445,659 1.34% (45.5K)

2022 3,526,216 2.34% (80.6K)

2023 3,620,068 2.66% (93.9K)

2024 3,768,932 4.11% (148.9K)

2025 4,000,000 6.13% (231.1K)

*slowed during the global pandemic


Digital Assets


Hedge funds and wealth firms expand operations in Dubai, reinforcing the emirate’s role as a global financial hub.

Hedge Funds and Wealth

Firms Drive Dubai’s

Finance Hub to Record-

Breaking Growth

Dubai’s Finance Hub Thrives as Hedge Funds

and Wealth Firms Fuel Record Growth,

Strengthening its Global Investment Appeal.

Dubai’s position as a leading global finance

hub has reached new heights, driven by

the rapid expansion of hedge funds and

wealth management firms. Strategic reforms,

strong regulatory oversight, and

investor-friendly policies have attracted

international capital on an unprecedented

scale, transforming the emirate into a

preferred destination for global asset managers.

The Dubai International Financial

Centre (DIFC) now stands at the core of

this growth, supported by cutting-edge

infrastructure and an innovation-driven

ecosystem. As wealth continues to flow

into the region, Dubai is setting record

benchmarks and reshaping the dynamics

of international finance.


Dubai has firmly established

itself as a global financial powerhouse,

with hedge funds and

wealth management firms fuelling

a remarkable surge in activity. The

emirate’s strategic reforms, supportive

regulations, and ability to attract

international capital have positioned

it as a premier destination for asset

managers seeking growth and stability.

In 2025, Dubai’s finance hub is setting

new benchmarks, not only in terms

of investment inflows but also in the

sophistication of its financial services

ecosystem.

Over the past few years, Dubai International

Financial Centre (DIFC)

has emerged as the cornerstone of this

transformation. Housing a growing

community of hedge funds, private

equity firms, and family offices, DIFC

is now home to some of the world’s

most prominent players.

Attracting Global Hedge Funds

One of the most striking developments

is the rising number of global hedge

funds relocating or expanding into

Dubai. Major firms from the United

States, United Kingdom, and Asia have

established offices in DIFC, attracted

by the emirate’s gateway position between

East and West. The proximity

to emerging markets in the Middle

East, Africa, and South Asia provides

unparalleled access to new investment

opportunities, while Dubai’s global connectivity

ensures seamless integration

into international financial networks.

The regulatory environment has also

played a crucial role. DIFC’s independent

regulatory authority, the Dubai

Financial Services Authority (DFSA),

offers a transparent and internationally

recognised framework that balances

investor protection with market innovation.

By aligning its standards with

global best practices, Dubai has won

the confidence of leading hedge fund

managers who are keen to expand

their reach in growth markets while

maintaining compliance with international

norms.

Wealth Management on the Rise

Alongside hedge funds, wealth management

firms are experiencing rapid

growth in Dubai. As high-net-worth

individuals (HNWIs) and ultra-high-networth

individuals (UHNWIs) increasingly

look to diversify their portfolios,

Dubai has become a preferred hub for

financial planning, estate structuring,

and succession management. This

growth is being fuelled by both regional

wealth and an influx of global investors

seeking residency and investment

opportunities in the UAE.

Innovation and Financial Technology

Another factor accelerating Dubai’s

financial growth is its embrace of

financial technology. DIFC’s Innovation

Hub has become a launchpad for

fintech companies, creating synergies

Dubai continues to

strengthen its position as

a global financial centre

by attracting leading

international firms and

enabling sustainable

growth in the sector.”

His Excellency Essa Kazim, Governor,

Dubai International Financial Centre

between traditional finance and disruptive

technologies. Hedge funds and

wealth firms are increasingly leveraging

digital platforms, artificial intelligence,

and blockchain solutions to enhance

portfolio management, client servicing,

and regulatory compliance.

This convergence of finance and technology

has allowed Dubai to develop a

forward-looking ecosystem, ensuring

that its financial hub remains relevant

in an era of digital transformation.

Fintech adoption has also supported

sustainable finance initiatives, with

green bonds, ESG-focused investments,

and digital asset management gaining

traction.

Geopolitical Advantage and Market

Confidence

Dubai’s rise as a financial hub is also

closely tied to its geopolitical positioning.

Amid global uncertainty, the

emirate offers political stability, investor-friendly

policies, and a reputation for

being a neutral ground for international

business. These factors have instilled

confidence among investors, particularly

at a time when other financial

centres face challenges ranging from

regulatory shifts to economic volatility.

The UAE’s trade and investment

agreements have also strengthened

market confidence. Partnerships with

Asian, European, and African markets

are driving cross-border capital flows,

creating more opportunities for hedge

funds and wealth managers to diversify

portfolios and tap into new sectors.

To sustain this momentum, Dubai

has placed a strong emphasis on developing

human capital. The city is

attracting top financial professionals

from across the globe while simultaneously

nurturing local talent through

educational programmes, certifications,

and industry training. The result is a

dynamic workforce capable of supporting

the complex needs of hedge

funds, asset managers, and private

wealth firms operating in the emirate.

Sustainable and Growth Outlook

Looking ahead, Dubai’s financial hub is

set to achieve further record-breaking

growth. The combination of strategic

reforms, capital inflows, and innovative

financial products points towards a

sustainable trajectory. Hedge funds

are expected to deepen their presence,

while wealth management firms will

likely continue expanding their offerings

to serve a diverse and global

client base.

Moreover, the emirate’s focus on

sustainable finance and ESG principles

aligns with international trends, ensuring

long-term relevance in a shifting

investment landscape. Dubai’s ability to

anticipate and adapt to evolving market

dynamics gives it a competitive edge.


Banking News

UAE Central Bank

Suspends Yas Takaful

Licence Over

Regulatory Breaches


(CBUAE) has suspended the

licence of Yas Takaful PJSC

after the insurer failed to comply

with regulatory requirements governing

insurance providers in the

country. Issued under Article 33(2)

(k) of Federal Decree Law No. 48 of

2023, the suspension prevents the

company from writing new business

but does not absolve it from meeting

obligations on existing contracts.

Policyholders remain protected, with

Yas Takaful legally bound to honour

prior commitments. The central bank

highlighted that the action reflects its

supervisory mandate to preserve the

integrity of the UAE’s financial system

and enhance resilience within the insurance

sector. By enforcing stricter

oversight, CBUAE seeks to reinforce

consumer confidence and ensure that

insurance providers operate within a

transparent, accountable and stable

regulatory environment.

UAE Banks Use Agentic AI to Transform Credit

Sanctions

Banks in the UAE are accelerating

digital transformation

by adopting agentic artificial

intelligence, a form of AI that can

make independent decisions in critical

areas such as credit risk assessment.

Emirates NBD’s digital-only bank,

Liv., has introduced a fully automated

personal loan service that enables

customers to access up to AED 200,000

through the app. The entire process,

including approval, loan booking, and

disbursement, is completed in under

three seconds without human involvement.

Fintech firm Beehive is also

collaborating with UAE banks to implement

its AI-driven credit bot, which

leverages cash-flow, e-commerce, and

utility data to approve SME working

capital loans within hours instead of

weeks. These developments highlight

a new era of efficiency, speed, and

customer convenience in the UAE’s

banking sector.

Emirates Islamic to Digitally Empower Kimera

Group’s UAE Finances

Emirates Islamic has been appointed

as the lead cash management

service provider for

all of Kimera Group’s UAE financial

operations. The agreement grants

Kimera access to the bank’s advanced

digital platforms, including businessONLINE

and smartTRADE, along

with Smart Cash Deposit Machines

(SCDM), cheque scanning (ICCS),

and remote cheque-printing services.

In addition, Emirates Islamic will

support Kimera with payroll solutions

(outside the Wage Protection System)

and bespoke corporate credit cards.

According to Mohammad Kamran

Wajid, Deputy CEO of Emirates Islamic,

this partnership underscores

the bank’s commitment to innovation,

operational excellence, and client-focused

digital-first solutions. Tariq Al

Ghussein, CEO of Kimera Group, adds

that the collaboration will enhance

operational efficiency, transaction

management, and financial agility. This

reinforces Emirates Islamic’s role as a

leading provider of Sharia-compliant,

tech-enabled services for corporate

clients in the UAE.

Saudi Arabia’s PIF Exits Major Stakes in Meta, Shopify, FedEx and Alibaba

Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment

Fund (PIF) has sold its entire

holdings in several leading international

firms, including Meta, Shopify,

FedEx, Alibaba, PayPal, and Nu

Holdings, during the second quarter of

2025. The move significantly reduced

the fund’s exposure to U.S.-listed equities,

with overall positions falling

from USD 25.5 billion at the end of the

first quarter to USD 23.8 billion by the

close of the second quarter. Despite

these divestments, PIF continues

to maintain sizable investments in


companies aligned with its long-term

strategy, such as Uber, Lucid Motors,

and Electronic Arts, focusing on sectors

like mobility, electric vehicles,

and gaming. The rebalancing reflects

the sovereign wealth fund’s efforts

to diversify its global portfolio while

prioritising domestic projects and strategic

industries under Saudi Arabia’s

Vision 2030 transformation plan.

Zand Partners with Mastercard to Boost Cross-Border Payment Solutions

Zand, the UAE-based digital bank

and financial services group, has

entered into a strategic alliance

with Mastercard to enhance the speed,

security, and efficiency of cross-border

payments. Through this partnership,

Zand will integrate Mastercard Move,

the company’s global money movement

platform, allowing customers to send

funds internationally with greater

convenience and reliability. The service

will initially cover transfers to bank

accounts, mobile wallets, and designated

cash pick-up locations across multiple

markets, providing customers with a

wider range of payment options. The

collaboration also reflects a shared

commitment to driving financial inclusion

and supporting the UAE’s vision of

building a robust digital economy. By

leveraging Mastercard’s global network

and Zand’s innovative digital-first

approach, the partnership aims to deliver

seamless, customer-focused solutions

that address the growing demand for

faster and more transparent cross-border

transactions.

CBUAE’s 2024 Report

Shows Economic Resilience,

Banking Strength

The Central Bank of the United Arab

Emirates (CBUAE) has published

its 2024 Financial Stability Report,

offering a comprehensive analysis of the

nation’s financial system amid ongoing

global economic challenges. The report

confirms that the UAE’s banking sector

remains strong and resilient, underpinned

by solid capital and liquidity buffers,

enhanced asset quality, and sustained

growth. Despite heightened global

uncertainty, financial stability risks in the

UAE remained broadly contained, thanks

to sound economic fundamentals, effective

risk management practices, and prudent

monetary policy. The CBUAE’s stress

testing confirmed the ability of UAE banks

to withstand adverse macroeconomic

scenarios, continue extending credit,

and maintain high capital and liquidity

levels. This resilience underlines the

sector’s readiness to absorb shocks while

supporting economic growth.

A key development in 2024 was the

operational launch of the UAE Financial

Stability Council, chaired by His Highness

Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

Kotak Mahindra Becomes First Indian Bank Licensed

to Sell Funds to UAE Retail Investors

Kotak Mahindra’s global arm,

Kotak Mahindra International,

has become the first Indian financial

institution to obtain a licence

from the UAE Securities & Commodities

Authority to offer investment fund

and portfolio management services

directly to retail investors in the

UAE. The approval marks a significant

expansion beyond its previous

access limited to high-net-worth and

institutional clients, enabling retail

investors to participate with a minimum

investment of around USD 500.

The bank aims to launch India-focused

retail funds in the UAE by the fourth

quarter of 2025. The move is expected

to broaden investment access for

both the Indian diaspora and local

UAE investors, capitalising on the


(CBUAE) reported growth

across key monetary aggregates

in May 2025. Money supply aggregate

M1 rose by 0.4% to AED 1,015.6 billion,

supported by a AED 3.4 billion rise

in monetary deposits and a AED 0.3

billion increase in currency in circulation.

Aggregate M2 climbed 1.6% to

AED 2,474.0 billion, driven by higher

M1 and an additional AED 34.7 billion

in quasi-monetary deposits. Similarly,

M3 expanded 1.7% to AED 2,948.1 billion,

reflecting M2’s growth alongside

an AED 11.5 billion increase in government

deposits. The monetary base also

advanced by 2.2% to AED 836.7 billion,

fuelled by increases in currency issued

(2.1%), reserve accounts (29.2%), and

UAE’s tax-exempt environment for

fund returns and strengthening India’s

financial integration with the region.

CBUAE Reports Banks’ Total Assets at $1,328.3B

by May 2025

monetary bills and Islamic certificates

of deposit (6.6%), which offset a 48.8%

decline in banks’ and OFCs’ overnight

deposits.


Economy


Dubai’s dynamic economy thrives on trade, finance, real estate, and innovation-driven sectors in 2025

Dubai’s GDP Hits AED

119.7 Billion in Q1

2025: What’s Driving

the Growth

Dubai’s Q1 2025 GDP Growth Highlights

Sectoral Contributions, Reflecting the Emirate’s

diversified economy

Dubai has reported a robust start to

2025, with its gross domestic product

reaching AED 119.7 billion in the first

quarter, marking a four percent year-onyear

increase. This growth underscores

the emirate’s economic resilience, driven

by its diversified model that spans

trade, finance, real estate, healthcare, and

tourism. The performance reflects the

momentum achieved in 2024 and highlights

Dubai’s ability to balance traditional

strengths with emerging sectors. Underpinned

by strategic policies, international

partnerships, and ambitious long-term

goals, Dubai continues to consolidate

its position as a leading global hub for

commerce and investment.


Dubai has opened 2025 with a

strong economic performance,

recording GDP of AED 119.7

billion in the first quarter of the year.

The figure represents a 4 percent

year-on-year increase, reflecting the

city’s resilience and the breadth of

its growth drivers. This expansion

builds on the momentum of 2024, when

Dubai’s economy grew 5.8 percent at

current prices and 3.2 percent at constant

prices, underscoring the steady

foundation upon which the emirate

continues to grow.

The results demonstrate the effectiveness

of Dubai’s long-term diversification

strategy, where multiple

industries contribute to economic

stability rather than reliance on a single

sector. Healthcare emerged as the

fastest-growing segment, expanding by

an impressive 26 percent. Although the

sector accounts for only 1.5 percent of

GDP, its contribution to overall growth

was significant and symbolic of Dubai’s

increasing investment in medical services

and wellness infrastructure.

Real estate remained a central driver,

advancing by 7.8 percent in the quarter

and contributing 7.5 percent to the overall

economy. The continued appetite

for property in Dubai is fuelled by both

domestic and international investors

seeking long-term returns and residency

opportunities. The sector’s expansion

reflects strong demand for premium

housing, commercial developments, and

industrial facilities, supported by regulatory

reforms and global confidence

in Dubai’s market stability.

Finance and Trade Reinforce Dubai’s

Economic Backbone

Finance and insurance contributed

AED 16 billion in output, growing 5.9

percent and making up 13.4 percent of

GDP. As one of Dubai’s most globally

integrated industries, this sector benefits

from a stable regulatory framework,

the city’s role as a regional hub for

capital flows, and growing demand for

banking, insurance, and investment

services. The expansion mirrors the

impact of global financial integration

and Dubai’s status as a preferred hub

for regional headquarters of international

institutions.

Wholesale and retail trade continued

to dominate the economic landscape,

representing nearly a quarter of GDP.

Growing 4.5 percent in Q1, the sector

In an era defined by data

and AI, reliable statistics

are indispensable for

understanding current

trends and anticipating

future developments.

The Q1 2025 results

reflect Dubai’s

economic progress,

enabling policymakers,

researchers, and

businesses to make wellinformed

decisions.”

His Excellency Younus Al Nasser, Chief

Executive of the Dubai Data & Statistics

Establishment

reflects Dubai’s global position as a

commercial hub bridging Asia, Africa,

and Europe. With thriving free zones,

world-class logistics, and a booming

domestic consumer market, trade

remains a cornerstone of the economy

and provides resilience against

external shocks.

Tourism-related activities such as

accommodation and food services

also posted positive results, rising 3.4

percent during the quarter. Dubai’s

continued ability to attract international

visitors through high-profile events,

global exhibitions, and leisure offerings

has supported steady demand for hotels,

restaurants, and related services.

Technology-driven areas, such as

information and communications,

saw growth of 3.2 percent, reflecting

the emirate’s focus on digital transformation.

Increased investment in smart

services, e-commerce, and data-driven

industries is positioning Dubai to capitalise

on future opportunities in the

knowledge economy. Manufacturing

also performed positively, expanding

3.3 percent to AED 8.7 billion, highlighting

steady demand for industrial

production and continued government

support for advanced manufacturing.

Transport and storage, critical to

Dubai’s role as a global logistics hub,

grew by 2 percent in the quarter. The

city’s airports, seaports, and free zones

continue to underpin its position as

a central link in international trade

networks. Despite moderate growth

in this sector compared with others,

its sheer scale means it remains one of

the largest contributors to GDP, supporting

thousands of businesses and

reinforcing the city’s competitiveness

in logistics and aviation.

Global Partnerships and Free Zones

Drive Investment Growth

Investment flows have been further

strengthened by international agreements

such as the India–UAE Comprehensive

Economic Partnership Agreement.

This deal has driven cross-border

trade and encouraged Indian businesses

to expand operations in Dubai, particularly

in real estate, services, and

information technology. Free zones

like JAFZA also play an instrumental

role by offering 100 percent foreign

ownership, tax incentives, and simplified

regulatory frameworks, which

attract global corporations and small

enterprises alike.

Despite strong economic momentum,

Dubai faces certain challenges

that could influence its trajectory.

Rising living costs, particularly higher

housing rents, are placing pressure on

mid-income households, while wage

growth has remained relatively flat.

These factors may affect the affordability

landscape for professionals

and expatriates who form a significant

share of the workforce. Regional

risks, including oil price volatility and

geopolitical uncertainty, also remain

external factors that can shape investor

sentiment.


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Tourism


From heritage walks to wellness retreats, Dubai transforms tourism into a richer, lifestyle-focused story.

How Dubai Tourism Is

Shaping a Lifestyle-

Centric Destination

Strategy

Dubai Tourism Shifts toward a Lifestyle-

Centred Model, Weaving in Culture, Wellness,

and Community-Centric Experiences.

Dubai has evolved far beyond its reputation

as a luxury tourism hub, reshaping

its strategy to emphasise lifestyle-driven

experiences that appeal to a wider audience.

While world-class hotels, shopping

districts, and entertainment venues remain

central to its offering, the emirate

is increasingly focusing on wellness, culture,

adventure, and sustainability. This

shift reflects Dubai’s ambition to create

a holistic destination that resonates with

both international visitors and residents.

By aligning tourism with quality-of-life

initiatives, the city is not only diversifying

its appeal but also strengthening its

position as a global leader in experiential

and lifestyle-centric travel.


Dubai has long been synonymous

with luxury, offering some of the

world’s finest hotels, shopping

experiences, and architectural marvels.

Yet the emirate is increasingly redefining

its tourism narrative by going beyond

opulence and focusing on lifestyle,

culture, and wellness. This shift is part

of a broader effort to attract a more

diverse demographic of travellers and

residents, aligning with Dubai’s vision

to position itself as a global lifestyle

hub. The strategy is not only enhancing

visitor experiences but also driving

economic diversification, supporting

new industries, and strengthening the

emirate’s long-term competitiveness.

At the core of this transition lies a

conscious effort to broaden Dubai’s

appeal. While high-net-worth individuals

and luxury tourists remain vital,

the emirate recognises the importance

of capturing the growing middle-class

and millennial travel segments. These

travellers seek authenticity, cultural immersion,

and experiences that integrate

seamlessly with their lifestyles. As a

result, Dubai is investing in initiatives

that highlight its multicultural identity,

creative industries, and wellness-focused

offerings, moving away from

the perception of being solely a luxury

playground.

Lifestyle and Wellness at the

Forefront

Dubai’s authorities are expanding attractions

to cater to evolving traveller

expectations, offering a richer mix of

experiences beyond luxury. Heritage

districts, art galleries, culinary tours,

and desert reserves present visitors

with layered, immersive opportunities.

Cultural events such as Art Dubai and

the Dubai Food Festival highlight the

emirate’s creative industries, while

major sporting events strengthen its

identity as a hub for health and fitness.

Music festivals, literary gatherings,

and outdoor community events further

complement this strategy, reinforcing

Dubai’s lifestyle credentials.

Wellness tourism is also gaining

momentum, with resorts and urban

hotels integrating yoga retreats, spa

services, and fitness programmes

into their offerings. At the same time,

sustainability-focused initiatives, from

eco-friendly hotels to desert conservation

projects, ensure that Dubai

appeals to environmentally conscious

travellers. Increasingly, resorts are

positioning themselves as holistic

wellbeing retreats, with offerings that

include nutrition programmes, meditation,

and nature-focused experiences.

This dual approach reinforces the city’s

ambition to become a comprehensive

lifestyle destination.

Culture, Innovation, and Long-

Term Appeal

A central component of Dubai’s strategy

is reinforcing cultural identity while

The UAE sees tourism

as a bridge to cultural

exchange, community

wellbeing, and

sustainable innovation.”


Economy and Chairman, Emirates Tourism

Council

simultaneously embracing innovation.

The city is investing heavily in heritage

promotion through sites such as Al

Fahidi Historical District, Dubai Creek,

and traditional souks, while also developing

cutting-edge landmarks like the

Museum of the Future and the Etihad

Museum. This duality allows visitors

to experience both Dubai’s traditions

and its forward-looking ambitions,

creating a distinctive balance between

heritage and modernity.

Beyond short-term tourism, the emirate

is also targeting long-term residents

through Golden Visas and new residency

programmes that attract global talent,

investors, and creatives. By fostering

cultural districts, co-working hubs, and

start-up ecosystems, Dubai positions

itself as a destination where lifestyle

and business merge seamlessly. Global

schools, international healthcare

facilities, and a cosmopolitan dining

scene add to the appeal for those who

see Dubai as more than a holiday stop.

For investors, this signals stability and

diversified opportunities in areas such

as education, health, retail, and creative

industries, alongside traditional

real estate and hospitality. This shift

reflects an understanding that tourism

is not only about attracting visitors but

also about cultivating a community of

residents and entrepreneurs who shape

the city’s long-term future.

Technology and Partnerships Driving

Growth

Digital transformation is further

shaping the tourism experience, with

smart initiatives such as AI-based city

guides, contactless check-ins, and

blockchain-enabled booking systems

enhancing convenience for travellers.

Virtual and augmented reality tools

now allow potential visitors to explore

attractions remotely, building excitement

before arrival and enabling more

personalised trip planning. These tools

appeal to tech-savvy audiences who

expect seamless, data-driven services

and demonstrate Dubai’s commitment

to innovation. By integrating technology

into the visitor journey, the city ensures

it stays ahead of global tourism trends

while improving efficiency across the

sector.

At the same time, partnerships with

global cultural institutions, sports organisations,

and international brands

continue to expand Dubai’s reach

and credibility. Collaborations with

leading entertainment companies,

Michelin-star chefs, and international

universities are enriching Dubai’s lifestyle

offerings, making it a hub for art,

design, cuisine, and education. These

collaborations not only bring global

prestige but also provide platforms

for local talent to shine, creating a

virtuous cycle of cultural growth. Such

alliances help diversify the emirate’s

tourism ecosystem, reinforcing Dubai’s

position as a multifaceted destination

that blends local authenticity with

global connectivity.


Travel News

Dubai International Airport Prepares for August Surge

Dubai International Airport (DXB) is

anticipating a significant increase

in passenger traffic from August

13 to 25, with over 3.6 million travelers

expected as families return from summer

holidays and students head back for

the new academic year. Daily traffic is

projected to average 280,000 passengers,

with the busiest day forecasted for Friday,

August 15, when numbers are expected

to exceed 290,000. This sSsurge follows a

record-breaking first half of 2025, during

which DXB handled more than 46 million

passengers, reaffirming its position as the

world’s busiest international airport. To

manage the increased flow, Dubai Airports

is implementing enhanced services and

family-friendly measures, including faster

passport control for children aged 12 and

older using Smart Gates, streamlined

immigration processes, and improved

amenities such as lounges, duty-free

shopping, and dining options.

Jazeera Airways

Launches ‘Buy 1 Get 1

Free’ Offer

Jazeera Airways has introduced

an exclusive “Buy 1 Get 1 Free”

promotion, available for bookings

made between August 18 and 24, 2025.

This offer applies to both one-way and

round-trip flights across the airline’s entire

network, with travel dates extending

from September 1 to December 15, 2025.

Passengers can book multiple tickets

under this promotion, making it ideal

for family and group travel. To avail

of the offer, customers must enter the

promo code J9B1G1 at checkout on the

Jazeera Airways website or mobile app.

The promotion is valid for the airline’s

Light fare, which includes the option to

add extras such as checked baggage,

in-flight meals, and preferred seating

at a 60% discount. This initiative aims

to make travel more accessible and

affordable, allowing passengers to explore

new destinations or revisit places with a

companion at no additional cost.

Air Arabia Abu Dhabi Launches Seasonal

Russia Flights

Air Arabia Abu Dhabi has introduced

seasonal flights connecting Abu

Dhabi to Yekaterinburg, Russia,

beginning October 27, 2025, and running

until March 27, 2026. The service will

operate twice weekly, enhancing travel

options for both leisure and business

passengers between the UAE and Russia.

This expansion reflects the airline’s

strategy to broaden its international

network and strengthen connectivity for

passengers seeking new destinations or

convenient travel routes. The initiative

also supports tourism growth and

business links between the two countries,

offering travellers flexible scheduling

and competitive fares. By introducing

this route, Air Arabia Abu Dhabi aims to

attract a diverse passenger base, including

families, professionals, and frequent

travellers, while contributing to the UAE’s

broader aviation and tourism goals.

UAE Introduces New Passport Renewal Policy

The UAE has implemented a

new policy allowing citizens to

renew their passports up to one

year before the expiry date, doubling

the previous six-month window. This

change, effective from August 18, 2025,

aims to provide greater flexibility for

travel planning, official transactions, and

administrative convenience. Citizens can

access the service through the Federal

Authority for Identity, Citizenship,

Customs and Ports Security’s digital

platform, ensuring a streamlined and

efficient process. Authorities have

highlighted that the new policy will

improve convenience, reduce last-minute

travel disruptions, and further enhance

the UAE passport’s global standing. By

extending the renewal period, the UAE

demonstrates a commitment to citizencentric

services and continued innovation

in administrative efficiency.


Qatar’s Tourism Sector Sees Robust Growth in H1 2025

Qatar’s tourism industry has experienced

significant growth in

the first half of 2025, welcoming

over 2.6 million international visitors,

a 3% increase compared to the same

period last year. Visitors from Gulf

Cooperation Council (GCC) countries

accounted for 36% of arrivals, followed

by Europe at 26%, Asia and Oceania at

22%, and the Americas and other Arab

countries each at 7%. The majority of

arrivals were by air (57%), with land

and sea arrivals comprising 33% and

9%, respectively. Hotel occupancy rates

averaged 71%, up two percentage points

from the previous year, with over 5.2

million hotel nights sold, marking a 7%

increase from H1 2024. The tourism

sector contributed QR55 billion (approximately

$15.1 billion) to Qatar’s

GDP in 2024, representing 8% of the

economy and a 14% increase from the

previous year. This growth aligns with

Qatar’s National Vision 2030, aiming to

diversify the economy through tourism.

UAE Airlines Expand

Network with 15 New

Destinations

UAE-based airlines have added

15 new destinations to their

network in the first half of 2025,

contributing to a 5% increase in passenger

numbers, reaching 75.4 million

compared to the same period in 2024.

The new routes span Europe, Asia,

Africa, and the Middle East, including

cities in Russia, Czech Republic, Poland,

Armenia, Kazakhstan, Vietnam, Cambodia,

Turkey, Iran, Egypt, Croatia, and

Ethiopia. This expansion reinforces

the UAE’s position as a leading global

aviation hub, driven by innovative

national initiatives and strategies.

By offering new travel options and

improved accessibility, UAE airlines

are meeting growing passenger demand

while reinforcing the nation’s status

as a key international transport and

tourism destination.

Dubai to Host Inaugural UAE-Africa Tourism

Investment Summit

Dubai is set to host the inaugural

UAE-Africa Tourism Investment

Summit on October 27, 2025, as

part of FHS World 2025. The summit

aims to foster strategic collaborations

between the UAE and African nations

in the tourism and hospitality sectors.

Over 250 senior delegates from 53 African

countries are expected to attend,

focusing on sustainable development,

infrastructure investment, and public-private

partnerships. The event

underscores the UAE’s commitment to

enhancing economic ties with Africa

and positioning itself as a gateway

for investments into the continent’s

growing markets. The summit will

provide a platform for meaningful

dialogue and collaboration, aligning

with broader efforts to strengthen

economic integration and promote

mutual growth.

Dubai Attracts a Staggering 9.88M Global

Tourists in H1 2025

Dubai’s dynamic tourism appeal,

supported by impactful collaboration

between public and

private sectors and amplified through

a comprehensive global marketing

strategy, led to the city welcoming

9.88 million international overnight

visitors between January and June

2025. This marks a 6% year-on-year

increase, according to data released

by the Dubai Department of Economy

and Tourism (DET).

H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed

bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince

of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister

of Defence, and Chairman of The

Executive Council of Dubai, stated that

Dubai’s continued record-breaking

performance in international visitation

underscores their strategic vision to

position the city as a leading global

hub for business and tourism.


Investment


Indian investors are leveraging Dubai’s Golden Visa programme, securing property ownership.

Golden Visa Advantage:

Why Indian Investors

Are Doubling Down on

Dubai Real Estate

Golden Visa Incentives are Reshaping Dubai’s

Property Market, Accelerating Indian Investment

Flows and Long-Term Trust.

Dubai’s Golden Visa programme has

emerged as a powerful magnet for Indian

investors seeking long-term stability

and lucrative opportunities in real estate.

Offering residency benefits tied to property

ownership, the initiative has made the

emirate an even more attractive hub for

high-net-worth individuals and business

leaders from India. Beyond financial gains,

it provides lifestyle advantages, access to

world-class infrastructure, and a secure

environment for families. This blend of

economic promise and personal security

is driving a surge in property acquisitions,

reinforcing Dubai’s position as a preferred

global destination for Indian capital and

long-term investment ambitions.


Dubai’s property market has

become one of the most attractive

destinations for global

investors, with Indian buyers standing

out as one of the most active groups

in recent years. The emirate’s strategic

initiatives, most notably the introduction

and expansion of the Golden Visa

programme, have significantly boosted

investor confidence, encouraging

long-term commitment and larger

investments. For Indian investors, the

combination of residency benefits, a

stable economic climate, and access

to luxury and high-yielding assets has

created an unparalleled opportunity. As

a result, more families, entrepreneurs,

and high-net-worth individuals from

India are turning to Dubai not just for

financial returns but also for lifestyle

and legacy planning.

The Game-Changer for Indian

Investors

The Golden Visa, launched in 2019

and expanded in subsequent years,

allows investors to secure long-term

residency, offering ten-year renewable

visas for property buyers meeting the

minimum investment threshold. This

has been a game-changer for Indian

investors, who often seek both security

and stability outside of India. By

providing a clear residency path linked

to real estate ownership, Dubai has

aligned itself with the aspirations of

Indian high-net-worth individuals who

value mobility, global connectivity, and

future planning for their families. The

scheme also removes the uncertainty

that previously accompanied short-term

visas, enabling investors to make more

confident and long-term decisions.

Another major factor driving Indian

investment into Dubai’s property market

is the city’s consistent record of

capital appreciation and rental yields.

In contrast to many global property

hubs where yields remain relatively

low, Dubai has regularly posted annual

rental yields between 6 to 8 per cent,

particularly in prime residential communities.

This is particularly appealing

for Indian investors familiar with much

lower yields in metropolitan cities like

Mumbai, Delhi, or Bengaluru. Moreover,

the potential for capital appreciation

in Dubai has been underscored by

steady price growth in prime and

mid-tier segments, buoyed by sustained

demand and limited supply in luxury

developments. For many investors,

this offers the dual benefit of recurring

income and long-term wealth creation.

Dubai’s High Returns, Lifestyle,

and Long-Term Value Proposition

Lifestyle and quality of life also play

a vital role in attracting Indian investors.

Dubai offers a safe, cosmopolitan

environment, world-class healthcare

and education, and proximity to India,

making it an ideal second home destination.

Families see Dubai as a place

where children can access international

schooling and higher education, while

business leaders see it as a gateway to

global markets. The Golden Visa has

further enhanced this appeal by offering

family sponsorships and the flexibility

to remain in the UAE without the need

for continuous employment. For many

Indian entrepreneurs and professionals,

this provides a secure base from which

to expand businesses across the Middle

East, Africa, and beyond.

Dubai’s transparent regulatory framework

and investor-friendly policies add

another layer of confidence. Authorities

have introduced measures to safeguard

investor interests, streamline property

registration, and increase transparency

in transactions. The Dubai Land Department

and Real Estate Regulatory

Agency have both played pivotal roles

in ensuring fair practices and enabling

smoother investment procedures. For

Indian investors, who may face bureaucratic

hurdles and slower processes

in their domestic market, the ease of

doing business in Dubai’s real estate

sector is a major differentiator.

Additionally, Dubai’s diversification

away from oil into sectors such as

technology, logistics, and tourism provides

reassurance that the economy is

future-ready. This economic resilience,

combined with strong infrastructure

and ambitious urban development

projects, reinforces the emirate’s position

as a global hub. Indian investors

are particularly drawn to large-scale

initiatives like Expo City Dubai, Dubai

South, and waterfront communities

that promise long-term growth and

sustained demand. These projects are

aligned with Dubai’s vision of being

a leading global destination for business,

lifestyle, and tourism, making

investments not just about property

ownership but participation in a larger

growth narrative.

Robust Framework, Economic

Resilience, and Cultural Synergy

Currency exchange dynamics also

favour Indian investors. With the UAE

dirham pegged to the US dollar, Dubai’s

property investments provide a hedge

against the fluctuations of the Indian

rupee. For high-net-worth individuals,

diversifying wealth into a dollar-linked

asset is a strategic move to protect

against domestic currency depreciation.

The Golden Visa

programme has

empowered Indian

investors with stability

and confidence,

enhancing both Dubai’s

real estate ecosystem and

economic outlook.”


Economy and Tourism, UAE

This financial stability, paired with

attractive mortgage options and favourable

financing structures, makes it

easier for Indian investors to leverage

and expand their portfolios in Dubai.

The social and cultural familiarity

between India and Dubai further

strengthens this trend. Indians make

up one of the largest expatriate communities

in the UAE, which creates a

sense of belonging and community for

new investors. This cultural comfort,

positions Dubai as a natural extension

of lifestyle and business.


Healthcare News

Abu Dhabi’s Hayat Programme Surpasses 1,000 Organ Transplants Milestone

Abu Dhabi’s National Programme

for Donation and Transplantation

of Human Organs and Tissue,

known as Hayat, has reached a significant

milestone. Since its launch in

2017, it has facilitated 1,090 successful

transplants across the emirate through

the end of 2024. In 2024 alone, a record

290 procedures were performed, including

transplants of kidneys, livers,

UAE Ministry of Health

Advances Zero Government

Bureaucracy

Initiative

The Ministry of Health and Prevention

has successfully completed

the second phase of its national

programme to eliminate government

bureaucracy, a cornerstone of the UAE’s

wider strategy to enhance efficiency and

simplify access to public services. This

phase involved streamlining multiple

healthcare-related processes, removing

redundant paperwork, and introducing

digital platforms that cut down on manual

intervention. By replacing outdated

procedures with automated systems,

the ministry aims to significantly

improve the citizen journey, ensuring

that patients and healthcare providers

can access essential services without

unnecessary delays. This milestone

reflects the country’s commitment

to building a modern government

framework where healthcare delivery

is faster, more transparent, and more

citizen-focused.

lungs, hearts, and pancreas. These

life-saving operations were carried

out across four world-class centres:

Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Sheikh

Khalifa Medical City, Burjeel Medical

City, and Sheikh Shakhbout Medical

City. The advances include the nation’s

first combined heart-and-lung transplant

and pioneering procedures such as

robotic-assisted multi-organ surgery.

Riyadh Hospital Bed Capacity Falls Below Global

Average amid Population Boom

A

recent

Knight Frank report

reveals that Riyadh’s hospital

bed capacity, at 1.7 beds per

1,000 people, is below both the national

average of 1.9 and the global average

of 2.9. The Ministry of Health operates

over half of the city’s inpatient facilities,

while private providers dominate

outpatient services. Rapid population

growth is placing mounting pressure on

the system. By 2030, the western zone

Burjeel Holdings has announced

a robust financial recovery in

Q2 of 2025, rebounding strongly

after the challenges it faced earlier in

the year, particularly during March. The

healthcare group reported solid growth

in both revenue and net earnings, fuelled

by an increase in patient volumes

and higher occupancy rates across its

hospitals and specialised centres. This

performance was further supported

alone will need an additional 1,500–2,000

beds, while the eastern and southern

zones each require 1,000–1,500 beds.

If growth trends continue, Riyadh will

face a shortage of up to 15,300 beds

by 2040 if measured against global

standards. The report recommends

targeted infrastructure investments and

expanded public-private partnerships,

especially in regions earmarked for residential

and commercial development.

Burjeel Posts Strong Second Quarter Results

after Early-Year Challenges

by sustained demand for advanced

treatments and innovative medical

services, reflecting the group’s growing

reputation in the regional healthcare

market. According to company representatives,

these results highlight

Burjeel’s operational strength and its

ability to remain resilient in a highly

competitive environment, particularly

as the healthcare industry continues to

undergo rapid transformation.


Mubadala Strengthens Commitment to PCI Pharma Services

Mubadala Investment Company,

Abu Dhabi’s sovereign investor,

has made a substantial reinvestment

in PCI Pharma Services, reinforcing

its confidence in the CDMO’s

trajectory. This move comes as part

of a broader growth funding round

co-led by private equity heavyweight

Bain Capital alongside existing investor

Kohlberg. Partners Group continues

to maintain a minority stake, ensuring

continuity in ownership and strategic

direction. Mubadala’s reinvestment

reflects the long-term performance of

PCI under its initial 2020 partnership

The new capital will drive both organic

and inorganic expansion across PCI’s

global operations. Planned initiatives

include expanding capabilities in sterile

fill-finish for injectables, high-potency

drug manufacturing, and biologics

processing, as well as extending the

company’s geographic footprint.

Aster DM Healthcare

Appoints New Head of

HR in the UAE

Shahed Abdul Rahiman has been

named Head of Human Resources

for Corporate & Aster

Digital Health in the UAE at Aster DM

Healthcare. With over 13 years of experience

at the organisation, he steps

into this strategic role responsible

for overseeing talent management,

organisational development, employee

engagement, and broader HR strategies

for both corporate operations and

digital health services. In his previous

capacities, he served as Deputy Head

of HR for Corporate and Head of HR

for Aster Digital Health, where he

shaped people strategies to facilitate

the company’s transformation into

digital care delivery and supported

corporate growth initiatives. Earlier

in his career, he held leadership roles

in corporate HR strategy development

and doctor recruitment, onboarding,

and compliance across Aster’s regulatory

frameworks. He holds an MBA

in Human Resources Management

from the University of Wales Trinity

Saint David.

EHS Expands Anti-Smoking Awareness and

Prevention Efforts

Emirates Health Services (EHS)

is intensifying its anti-smoking

drive through a combination

of targeted awareness campaigns,

specialised cessation support, and the

promotion of healthy practices to combat

the risks of traditional and modern

tobacco use. Operating 17 smoking

cessation clinics across the UAE,

EHS has recorded a 53 percent rise

in beneficiaries this year compared to

the same period in 2024, underscoring

the impact of its integrated approach.

The authority’s programmes combine

medical care with behavioural counselling

to address both physical and

psychological aspects of addiction.

Advanced technologies, such as biometric

monitoring of carbon monoxide

levels, alongside expanded virtual

Saudi German Hospitals delivered a robust

performance in the first half of

2025, with revenue rising to SAR 1.52

billion and net profit more than doubling

to SAR 223.8 million compared with the

same period last year. The increase was

driven by higher patient volumes across its

network, improved operational efficiency,

and expanded service offerings in key

cities. Earnings per share reached SAR

2.43, reflecting the hospital group’s strong

financial health and its ability to capture

growing demand for private healthcare

services. In the second quarter alone,

revenue reached SAR 791.1 million while

net profit remained steady at SAR 63.7

million, supported by seasonal demand

patterns and continued focus on quality

care. The results underline Saudi German

Hospitals’ resilience in a competitive

consultations via its smart application,

have further strengthened accessibility.

These initiatives have achieved a

52.6 percent cessation success rate,

reflecting the growing effectiveness

of EHS’s comprehensive prevention

and treatment strategies.

Saudi German Hospitals Report Strong H1 2025 Profits

healthcare market and its commitment

to delivering reliable, patient-centred

services across the region.


Opinion

The ETF Revolution Is

Coming to the Gulf, Here’s

Why It Will Be Different

The global market for Exchange-Traded

Funds (ETFs) now commands

over $10 trillion in assets, yet in

the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), it

remains a nascent corner of the financial

world. For years, regional investors

have favoured direct equity in familiar

local names. A powerful convergence of

ambitious government vision, a digitally

native population, and a hunger for sophisticated

financial tools is setting the

stage for an ETF explosion that won’t

just mirror the West but will leapfrog it.

While the world sees the GCC’s transformation

through the lens of giga-projects

and economic diversification, the parallel

revolution happening in its capital markets

is just as significant. The Gulf is not simply

importing the ETF model; it is preparing

to become the global laboratory for its

next evolution.

For investors, both within the region

and those looking in, understanding this

shift is critical. The opportunity lies in

participating in the creation of a smarter,

more culturally attuned investment

landscape.

Why is this Change Taking Place Now?

In my view, ETFs are one of the most

elegant financial instruments ever created.

They offer diversification, liquidity,

and transparent access to entire sectors,

themes, or markets in a single trade. In

my own hybrid strategy, I use ETFs as the

structural core of my portfolio, allowing

for tactical rotation between asset classes

from technology to energy to gold based

on macroeconomic momentum. Until recently,

this flexibility was largely out of

reach for the average GCC investor due

to a lack of product diversity and awareness.

However, three powerful catalysts

are changing the equation:

• Top-Down Economic Vision: Initiatives

like Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and the

UAE’s Centennial 2071 plan are fundamentally

about diversifying away from

oil. This requires channelling local capital

into new industries and attracting foreign

investment. ETFs are the perfect vehicle

for this, offering a simple way to invest

in the growth story of the entire non-oil

sectors.

• Demographic Tsunami: The GCC has

one of the youngest and most digitally-connected

populations in the world. This new

generation of investors is not content

with traditional banking products. They

expect the same seamless, on-demand

experience from their investments as they

do from every other aspect of their lives.

They are ready for accessible, low-cost,

and transparent products like ETFs.

• Regulatory Modernisation: Governments

across the region are actively fostering

fintech innovation and financial literacy.

The creation of regulatory sandboxes,

open banking frameworks, and national

savings platforms is removing friction

and democratizing market access at an

unprecedented rate.

Architecting ETF 2.0: Beyond Simple

Indexing

The real story is not that the GCC will

finally embrace the ETFs of yesterday. It’s

that it is uniquely positioned to pioneer

the ETFs of tomorrow. The region’s blend

of immense capital, clear vision, and a

“greenfield” market environment allows

it to build what I call “ETF 2.0.” This new

generation of funds will be defined by

three key innovations:

• AI-Powered and Active Strategies: The

UAE and Saudi Arabia are investing billions

to become global leaders in artificial

intelligence. This national priority creates

a fertile ecosystem for developing actively

managed ETFs powered by AI, real-time

data, and sentiment analysis. These are

not passive index-trackers but dynamic

instruments designed to adapt to market

shifts, which is becoming a natural fit

for a region that values decisive action.

• The Global Hub for Sharia-Compliant

Innovation: For decades, Sharia-compliant

investing has been a specialised niche.

The GCC can bring it to the mainstream.

As ethical and values-based investing becomes

a global priority, the region’s deep

expertise in Islamic finance principles

provides a massive head start. The next

wave will be sophisticated ETFs that blend

these principles with thematic plays in

technology, healthcare, and green energy,

creating products with global appeal

for both faith-based and ESG-conscious

investors.

• Hyper-Thematic and Narrative-Driven

Investing: The most compelling investment

opportunities are often tied to a powerful

story. The GCC is currently writing some

of the world’s most ambitious narratives.

Imagine a ‘Neom Future Cities’ ETF, a

‘GCC Tourism & Entertainment’ tracker,

or a ‘Halal Green Tech’ fund. These are

globally relevant themes that will allow

investors worldwide to own a piece of

the region’s future with the simplicity of

a single stock.

A New Blueprint for the Modern

Investor

For any market participant, risk management

is paramount. The beauty of ETFs is

that they provide built-in risk mitigation

through diversification. For a sophisticated

investor, they form the bedrock

of a portfolio, allowing for disciplined,

strategic positioning. More aggressive,

short-term trades can be layered on top

with precision. This combination of a

stable ETF core with tactical agility is

the framework that will define the next

generation of successful regional traders.

Global asset managers searching for

the next frontier of growth will find more

than just capital here; they will find a

clear vision, speed of execution, and an

investor base that is young, bold, and

ready to engage. The West may have

invented the ETF, but I think that the

Gulf is perfectly positioned to perfect it.


Hasnae Taleb

Award-Winning Trader,

Asset Manager, and Managing

Partner of Mintiply Capital


Finance


Tokenised sukuk in the GCC enhance accessibility, transparency, and sustainability.

Islamic Finance 2.0:

How Tokenisation is

Redefining Sukuk in the

GCC

Innovation and Tokenisation are Transforming

Sukuk in the GCC, Making Islamic Finance more

Inclusive and Sustainable.

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)

continues to shape the global landscape

of Islamic finance, with sukuk serving

as one of its most powerful instruments

for economic growth and diversification.

Traditionally anchored in Sharia principles

of ethical and interest-free finance,

sukuk have long attracted institutional

investors seeking stability and trust. Today,

however, the sector is entering a new

phase as innovation and digitalisation

redefine how sukuk are issued, traded, and

accessed. Through tokenisation, fractional

ownership, and sustainable financing

structures, the GCC is pioneering Islamic

Finance 2.0, positioning itself as a global

leader in inclusive and technology-driven

capital markets.


The Gulf Cooperation Council

(GCC) has long been a leader

in Islamic finance, with sukuk,

or Sharia-compliant financial certificates,

playing a central role in funding

infrastructure, corporate projects, and

sovereign development. Traditionally

viewed as a stable asset class rooted

in ethical and interest-free principles,

sukuk are now undergoing a significant

transformation. Innovation, particularly

through tokenisation and digital

platforms, is paving the way for a new

era of Islamic Finance 2.0 that blends

tradition with cutting-edge financial

technology.

The Evolution of Sukuk in a Digital

Economy

Sukuk have historically been issued

through conventional channels, involving

complex documentation, lengthy

settlement times, and limited investor

participation. While these instruments

remain popular with institutional investors,

their reach among retail investors

has been restricted due to high entry

costs and limited liquidity. The rise of

fintech and blockchain-based solutions

is now reshaping these dynamics.

Tokenisation allows sukuk to be digitised,

enabling fractional ownership

and making them more accessible to a

broader pool of investors. By breaking

large issuances into smaller, tradeable

units, tokenisation democratises access

to Islamic finance, allowing individuals

to invest in sukuk with smaller amounts.

For the GCC, where sovereign sukuk

issuances already dominate global

markets, this shift represents a major

opportunity. According to the Islamic

Financial Services Board (IFSB), the

region accounted for more than 60%

of global sukuk issuance in 2023, with

Saudi Arabia and the UAE leading. As

these markets embrace digital issuance

platforms, sukuk are poised to become

more liquid, transparent, and efficient

than ever before.

Tokenisation as a Catalyst for

Inclusion

One of the most significant promises of

tokenised sukuk is financial inclusion.

By lowering barriers to entry, small and

medium-sized investors can participate

in a market previously dominated by

institutions.

Moreover, tokenisation reduces reliance

on intermediaries by leveraging

Tokenised sukuk reflect

the UAE’s commitment

to innovation in Islamic

finance, supporting

inclusion and sustainable

growth.”

H.E. Mohamed Bin Hadi Al-Hussaini, Minister

of State for Financial Affairs

blockchain technology for smart contracts,

settlement, and compliance

checks. This not only lowers costs but

also strengthens trust and transparency,

values deeply embedded in Islamic

finance. Real-time auditing and automated

Sharia compliance monitoring

can ensure integrity throughout the

investment process, making tokenised

sukuk more appealing to both domestic

and international investors.

Sustainability and Green Sukuk

Another defining feature of Islamic

Finance 2.0 is its alignment with sustainability

goals. The GCC has been

actively issuing green and sustainable

sukuk to fund renewable energy, clean

transportation, and social impact

projects. Tokenisation adds a layer of

innovation by enhancing traceability

and impact measurement. Investors

can track how their funds are being

utilised through blockchain-enabled

reporting, ensuring accountability and

alignment with environmental, social,

and governance (ESG) objectives.

For instance, the UAE’s Net Zero 2050

strategy and Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030

have placed sustainability at the heart

of economic reform. By combining

sukuk structures with tokenisation,

governments and corporates can attract

ESG-conscious investors globally. This

intersection of faith-based finance and

sustainability strengthens the region’s

appeal as a capital markets leader.

Regulatory Innovation and

Challenges

The move toward tokenised sukuk,

however, requires regulatory innovation.

While blockchain-based instruments

promise efficiency, their

widespread adoption depends on

regulatory frameworks that balance

innovation with risk management.

GCC regulators have already begun

experimenting with sandboxes and

pilot projects. For example, the Dubai

Financial Services Authority (DFSA)

and Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) are

exploring guidelines for digital assets

and tokenised securities.

Sharia scholars and standard-setting

bodies such as the Accounting and

Auditing Organisation for Islamic

Financial Institutions (AAOIFI) will

also play a crucial role in validating

these instruments. The challenge lies

in ensuring that tokenisation does not

compromise the ethical foundations of

Islamic finance, particularly around

issues of speculation and excessive

risk. By establishing clear guidelines,

the GCC can build investor confidence

while safeguarding Sharia compliance.

The Role of Financial Institutions

and Fintechs

Banks, asset managers, and fintech

companies in the GCC are actively exploring

the integration of digital sukuk

platforms. Major Islamic banks are

collaborating with technology providers

to test blockchain-based issuance and

trading platforms, signalling a growing

ecosystem of partnerships.

Fintech startups, in particular, are

driving innovation by offering platforms

that support fractional sukuk investment

and peer-to-peer trading. These

firms leverage mobile-first solutions to

engage younger, tech-savvy investors

who demand seamless, transparent, and

low-cost financial products. In parallel,

traditional institutions are rethinking

their models to remain competitive in

this evolving landscape.


Insta360 GO Ultra

4K60 Action

Camera

Insta360 has introduced the GO Ultra, the latest addition

to its GO series, bringing powerful 4K recording

to a camera that still fits in your pocket. Designed for

creators, adventurers and everyday users, this compact

yet capable device delivers professional-grade

performance in an ultra-portable form factor.

Expected Specs: Compact Design, Big Upgrades

Design

Square-shaped body with

magnetic mounting, available

in Midnight Black and

Arctic White

Photo

50MP stills, RAW capture,

PureShot enhancement

Sensor

1/1.28-inch sensor with upgraded

image processing and lowlight

performance

Battery

500mAh built-in, ~70 minutes

standalone, up to 180–200 minutes

with Action Pod

Video

4K at 60fps, Active HDR

at 4K30, slow motion at

1080p/240fps

Charging

USB-C fast charging (80% in

12 minutes)

Storage

microSD slot up to 2TB (no

internal storage)

Display

2.5-inch flip touchscreen on

Action Pod

Stabilisation

FlowState stabilisation, horizon

lock, ultra-wide 156° FOV

Connectivity

Bluetooth 5.4, Apple Find

My support, fitness app data

overlays

+ +

Water Resistance

Accessories

Magnetic Pendant, Easy Clip,

Toddler Hat Clip, sticky tabs,

Ring Remote and more

Camera waterproof, Action

Pod IPX4 splash-resistant


Pros

Why Choose the Insta360

GO Ultra

The Insta360 GO Ultra redefines pocket action

cameras by merging portability with professional

performance. With 4K60 video, advanced low-light

imaging, and FlowState stabilisation, creators can

capture smooth, cinematic shots anywhere. Its modular

Action Pod with a flip screen and extended battery

life gives flexibility for long shoots, while the broad

accessory ecosystem unlocks countless mounting

options. Unlike bulkier rivals, it remains ultra-compact,

discreet, and creator-focused, making it the

most versatile pocket-sized action camera for travel,

adventure, and everyday storytelling.

Ultra-compact and pocket-friendly design

4K60 video with improved low-light performance

FlowState stabilisation with horizon lock

for smooth footage

Modular Action Pod with flip screen for

flexible shooting

Strong accessory ecosystem (pendant,

clip, hat mount, remote)

Long battery life when paired with Action

Pod (up to 200 mins)

Fast USB-C charging (80% in 12 minutes)

Apple Find My integration and smart app

editing tools

Performance Highlights

Expandable storage via microSD up to

2TB

4K60 video with enhanced low-light quality

Long battery life with Action Pod extension

Modular design with rich accessory ecosystem

Fast charging with larger flip screen for easy

framing

Smart app integration for AI editing and fitness

overlays

Cons

Slightly larger and heavier than the GO 3S

No internal storage, microSD required

Action Pod is splash-resistant only, not

fully waterproof

Image sharpness lags behind high-end

competitors

Mounts are not cross-compatible with all

Insta360 ranges

Final Thoughts

The Insta360 GO Ultra strikes an impressive balance between portability and professional performance. With 4K60 recording,

upgraded low-light capability, and modular accessories, it is an excellent choice for POV content and hands-free shooting. While

it may not match premium rivals in sharpness or durability, its combination of size, flexibility and creator-focused tools makes

it one of the most versatile pocket action cameras available today.


Market Insights


Dubai Financial Market records strong growth as corporate earnings.

Dubai’s Market

Momentum: How Strong

Corporate Earnings Are

Powering Growth

Dubai’s Markets are Surging in 2025, Driven by

Robust Corporate Earnings and Foreign Investor

Participation

Dubai’s financial markets have entered

2025 with remarkable strength, propelled

by a surge in corporate earnings that

has reinforced the emirate’s position as

a regional investment hub. Companies

across banking, real estate, utilities, and

transport are reporting record profits,

instilling confidence among both domestic

and international investors. The Dubai

Financial Market has responded with significant

gains, reaching multi-year highs

and attracting heightened foreign inflows.

This performance not only reflects the

resilience of Dubai’s diversified economy

but also underscores its ability to thrive

amid global uncertainties, shaping a compelling

narrative of sustained growth.


Over the first half of 2025, Dubai’s

stock market has gained remarkable

momentum, consistently

outperforming many of its regional

peers. This growth has largely been

fuelled by robust corporate earnings,

strong investor participation, and favourable

macroeconomic signals. The

emirate’s economic model, increasingly

diversified beyond oil, is reinforcing

confidence among both domestic and

foreign investors and positioning Dubai

as a leading equity market in the Gulf.

Dubai-listed companies have reported

Dubai’s strong corporate

earnings and diversified

growth reflect the

emirate’s resilience and

its future-ready economy.”

His Excellency Helal Saeed Al Marri, Director

General, Dubai Department of Economy

and Tourism

exceptional financial results across key

sectors, creating a strong earnings

base for market performance. The net

earnings of firms on the Dubai Financial

Market (DFM) surged to USD 25.4 billion

in 2024, representing a 16 per cent rise

from the previous year. Banking, real

estate, and utilities dominated profits,

with lenders such as Emirates NBD and

Dubai Islamic Bank registering notable

gains alongside real estate leaders like

Emaar Properties and Tecom. Even in

quarters where the wider Gulf region

struggled, Dubai companies managed

to outperform. In the third quarter of

2024, corporate profits rose by 5.4 per

cent year-on-year, bucking a regional

downturn. The first half of 2025 has

continued this trend, with Emaar,

Dubai Islamic Bank, Emirates Islamic,

Dubai Commercial Bank, and DEWA

all reporting impressive results. Toll

operator Salik’s 50 per cent rise in

second-quarter profits exemplified

the earnings momentum lifting the

broader market.

Earnings Strength and Market

Performance

The impact of these results has been

clearly reflected in Dubai’s market indices.

In February 2025, the DFM reached

its highest level since 2014, driven by

gains in industrials and transport. By

July, the index climbed to a 17-year

high, marking a more than 22 per cent

increase year-to-date. This rally has

been supported by foreign investor

inflows, which accounted for more

than half of total trading in the first half

of the year. Market capitalisation also

recorded a sharp increase, adding AED

153 billion in value over seven months.

Average daily trading volumes rose significantly,

demonstrating the depth of

liquidity and confidence underpinning

the rally. Even amid geopolitical and

global economic headwinds, Dubai’s

index has managed to sustain momentum,

reaching a 17.5-year peak in

late July, boosted by strong earnings

from companies such as Dubai Taxi

Company and Salik.

One of the key reasons behind Dubai’s

market resilience lies in its diversified

economic base. Unlike some

neighbouring economies that remain

heavily reliant on oil, Dubai has cultivated

strength in banking, real estate,

transport, and utilities. This structural

diversification has provided a buffer

against oil price volatility and made

the emirate’s equity market more

appealing to international investors.

The role of initial public offerings has

also been critical. High-profile listings

such as Parkin and Spinneys in 2024

collectively raised over AED 10 billion,

widening market participation and

creating new investment opportunities.

Foreign interest has been strong,

with more than 53,000 new investors

entering the DFM in the first half of

2025, of whom 84 per cent were from

outside the UAE. This broadening of

the investor base is helping to anchor

liquidity and valuations.

Foreign Participation and Economic

Diversification

Investor activity has been complemented

by supportive global and domestic

conditions. Hopes of U.S. monetary

easing have acted as an additional

tailwind for Gulf markets, lifting appetite

for equities in Dubai. At the

same time, the emirate’s leadership

has demonstrated resilience through

consistent regulatory and fiscal policies

that enhance investor confidence.

Despite global uncertainties such as

tariff disputes and inflationary pressures,

Dubai’s market has remained

resilient, underscoring the stability of

its financial ecosystem.

That said, challenges cannot be

overlooked. Market corrections have

occurred in response to weaker non-oil

sector data, showing that momentum

remains sensitive to broader economic

signals. In early August, for instance,

the DFM fell modestly even as some

banks reported strong earnings, reflecting

investor caution about slowing

growth in certain areas. Furthermore,

while Dubai thrives, other Gulf markets

have displayed mixed results, with

Abu Dhabi and Saudi Arabia facing

pressures from oil dynamics and global

headwinds. These divergences highlight

the importance of continued earnings

resilience for Dubai to sustain its relative

outperformance.

Looking ahead, the outlook for

Dubai’s financial markets remains

positive but will depend on several

factors. The consistency of corporate

earnings across banking, real estate,

and infrastructure will be key to maintaining

investor enthusiasm. Sustained

foreign participation will also play a

crucial role, ensuring that liquidity

levels remain elevated and that valuations

are well supported.

Dubai’s market momentum in 2025

is anchored in tangible fundamentals

rather than speculative surges. Additionally,

the government’s ability to

uphold macroeconomic stability in

the face of shifting global monetary

policies and geopolitical risks will be

vital to ensuring that momentum is

not derailed.


Corporate Results

ADNOC’s Logistics

H1’25 Net profit: AED 1,541M

Adnoc Logistics and Services (Adnoc

L&S), a global energy maritime logistics

leader, delivered record-breaking

second-quarter (Q2) and first-half (H1)

2025 results, comfortably surpassing

market expectations. Q2 revenue

jumped 40 per cent year-on-year (YoY)

to AED 4,617 million, supported by solid

growth across shipping and integrated

logistics operations. EBITDA rose 31

per cent YoY to AED 1,468 million,

while net profit increased 14 per cent

to AED 866 million, reflecting efficient

cost management. For H1 2025, revenue

reached AED 8,948 million, also up 40

per cent YoY, with EBITDA climbing 26

per cent to AED 2,731 million, sustaining

a strong 30 per cent margin. Net

profit stood at AED 1,541 million, a 5

per cent YoY increase and 18 per cent

higher than H2 2024.

Yalla Group

Q2’25 Net profit : AED 134.1M

Yalla Group Limited (NYSE: YALA), the

leading online social networking and

gaming company in the MENA region,

reported solid second quarter (Q2) 2025

results, ending June 30. The company

posted revenues of AED 310.7 million

(US$84.6 million), a 4.1% increase yearon-year,

while net income surged 16.4% to

AED 134.1 million (US$36.5 million). For

the first half of 2025, revenues reached

AED 618.8 million with net income of AED

267.7 million, reflecting strong operational

momentum. Yalla’s net margin climbed

to 43.2% in Q2, highlighting efficiency

gains, while Average Monthly Active

Users (MAUs) grew 8.8% year-on-year to

42.4 million. Founder, Chairman and CEO

Yang Tao praised the company’s robust

growth, attributing results to effective

user acquisition strategies.

Aldar

Q2’25 Net profit: AED 2.2B

Abu Dhabi-based Aldar Properties posted

a strong second-quarter performance

for 2025, with net profit climbing 25%

year-on-year (YoY) to AED 2.2 billion,

supported by robust development sales

and growth in its investment portfolio.

The figure surpassed analysts’ consensus

estimate of AED 1.82 billion,

according to LSEG. Quarterly revenue

surged 46% YoY to AED 7.7 billion,

while first-half net profit after tax rose

24% to AED 4.1 billion. Aldar reported

assets under management of AED 47

billion, alongside AED 12.2 billion in

unrestricted cash and AED 17.5 billion in

committed undrawn bank facilities as of

June-end. The company’s development

backlog expanded to AED 62.3 billion,

with AED 53.4 billion concentrated in

the UAE, reinforcing its position as a

leading regional developer.

Abu Dhabi Commercial

Bank

H1’25 Net profit: AED 5.942B

Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB)

reported strong momentum in Q2 and

H1 2025, supported by favourable UAE

economic conditions and its strategic

agenda. Profit before tax rose 17% yearon-year

(YoY) to AED 3.035 billion in

Q2, marking four consecutive years of

quarterly growth, and increased 18%

YoY to AED 5.942 billion in H1. Net

profit after tax stood at AED 2.568

billion in Q2 and AED 5.014 billion

in H1, with returns on average equity

of 14.9% and 14.1% respectively.

Operating profit grew 22% YoY in H1,

driven by double-digit revenue growth

from non-interest income, solid credit

expansion, and strong CASA inflows.

Enhanced efficiency through disciplined

cost management and digital

transformation lowered the cost-toincome

ratio to a record 26.4% in Q2.

Dubai Electricity and Water

Authority


Dubai Electricity and Water Authority

(DEWA), Dubai’s exclusive utilities

provider listed on the Dubai Financial

Market, reported record first-half 2025

results, underscoring its operational

strength and sustainable growth trajectory.

Revenue reached AED 14.6

billion, a 6.9% year-on-year increase,

while EBITDA rose 5.3% to AED 7.0

billion. Operating profit stood at AED

3.7 billion, with net profit surging 13.2%

to AED 2.9 billion, supported by rising

demand and disciplined execution. Cash

generated from operations amounted

to AED 9.2 billion, reflecting robust

financial management. HE Saeed Mohammed

Al Tayer, Vice Chairman and

MD & CEO, reaffirmed DEWA’s commitment

to Dubai’s clean energy goals,

highlighting its pivotal role in driving

progress towards Net Zero Carbon by

2050, while continuing to deliver strong

shareholder value through efficiency.

Emaar Properties


Emaar Properties PJSC posted a strong

performance in the first half of 2025,

delivering robust growth across all

core business segments. Property

sales surged 46% year-on-year to AED

46 billion (USD 12.5 billion), surpassing

previous records and reinforcing

investor confidence in Emaar’s developments.

The revenue backlog

expanded by 62% to AED 146.3 billion

(USD 39.8 billion) as of 30 June 2025,

providing solid future income visibility.

Total revenue rose 38% to AED 19.8

billion (USD 5.4 billion), driven by

growth across property development,

retail, hospitality, and international

operations. Profitability remained

strong, with EBITDA increasing 30%

to AED 10.4 billion (USD 2.8 billion),

maintaining a healthy margin of over

52%. Net profit before tax rose 34% to

AED 10.4 billion, reflecting operational

efficiency.


Al Ansari Financial

Services

H1’25 Net profit: AED

212.24M

Al Ansari Financial Services, one of the

GCC’s leading non-banking financial

services providers, delivered record

first-half 2025 results, supported by solid

performance across its business portfolio

and the successful integration of

BFC Group following its Q2 acquisition.

Operating income rose 13% year-on-year

(YoY) to AED 638 million, underpinned by

strong demand and strategic expansion.

EBITDA increased 11% YoY to AED 287

million, with the Group maintaining a

healthy 45% EBITDA margin, reflecting

disciplined cost control and operational

efficiency. The performance highlights Al

Ansari’s resilience and ability to navigate

regional geopolitical challenges, while

capitalising on robust economic growth

across the UAE and wider GCC.

Parkin

Q2’25 Net profit: AED 148.4M

Parkin Company, Dubai’s largest paid

public parking operator, delivered record

results in Q2 2025, with revenue

surging 56% year-on-year to AED 320

million (USD 87.1 million). Growth

was driven by higher contributions

from public parking, seasonal card and

permit fees, and enforcement activities.

Revenues from developer parking and

enforcement, exempt from concession

fees, accounted for 37% of total revenues.

Public parking revenue rose

48% to AED 132.2 million, supported

by an increase in the weighted average

hourly tariff to AED 3.04. Peak-hour

revenues climbed to AED 78.3 million,

representing 59% of total public parking

revenue, compared to 47% in Q2 2024.

Average revenue per parking spot grew

38% to AED 701, up from AED 506 a

year earlier, reflecting effective tariff

adjustments and portfolio expansion.

DAE


Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE)

reported robust performance in the first

half of 2025, driven by its acquisition

of Nordic Aviation Capital on May 7,

which expanded its owned, managed

and committed fleet by nearly 50% to

around 750 aircraft. Chief Executive

Officer Firoz Tarapore noted that front

office functions have been fully integrated,

with middle- and back-office

integration on track to conclude by the

end of the quarter. Revenue rose 24%

to AED 3.09 billion (US$843.6 million),

supported by the acquired business

and cost savings from debt refinancing

and reduced overheads, while pre-tax

margin reached 25.7% and return on

equity improved to 13.3%. Net profit

surged by 196% to AED 1.62 billion

(US$440.3 million). DAE Engineering

also delivered strong growth, with

Joramco’s revenue rising 26% to AED

436.7 million and profitability surging

80% to AED 143.6 million.

Arab Bank Group


Arab Bank Group delivered strong results

for the first half of 2025, with net

income after tax rising 6% to AED 1.97

billion (USD 535.3 million), compared

to AED 1.85 billion (USD 502.8 million)

a year earlier. The Group maintained a

robust capital position, reporting total

equity of AED 45.9 billion (USD 12.5

billion). For the six months ended June

30, 2025, assets expanded by 9% to AED

276.2 billion (USD 75.2 billion), while

loans increased by 6% to AED 146.2

billion (USD 39.8 billion). Deposits also

recorded healthy growth, climbing 9%

to AED 203.1 billion (USD 55.3 billion).

Commenting on the performance,

Sabih Masri, Chairman of the Board of

Directors, said the results highlight the

effectiveness of the bank’s strategy and

the resilience of its operating model.

Despite regional challenges, Arab Bank

has ensured sustainable growth and

shareholder value.

First Abu Dhabi Bank


First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), the UAE’s

largest bank and one of the world’s

safest financial institutions, posted

record results in the first half of 2025

with net profit rising 26% year-on-year

to AED 10.63 billion, marking the first

time it has surpassed AED 10 billion in

a half-year period. Earnings per share

grew 27% to AED 0.93, while Return

on Tangible Equity reached 20.5%,

exceeding the medium-term target of

above 16%. Profit before tax increased

29% to AED 12.83 billion, supported

by a 16% rise in operating income to

AED 18.31 billion. Growth was broadbased

across key sectors and client

segments. Net interest income rose 2%

to AED 9.96 billion, while non-interest

income surged 41% to AED 8.35 billion,

boosted by strong deal activity and FX

performance.

ADNOC Drilling Company


ADNOC Drilling Company delivered

a robust performance in the first half

of 2025, underscoring the company’s

strong growth trajectory and resilience

in a competitive market. Net profit after

tax surged 21% year-on-year to USD 692

million (AED 2.54 billion), compared

to USD 570 million (AED 2.09 billion)

in the same period of 2024. Revenues

for the first half rose 30% to USD 2.36

billion (AED 8.66 billion), reflecting

increased operational activity, while

earnings per share advanced to USD

0.04. For the second quarter of 2025,

ADNOC Drilling reported a 19% rise in

net profit to USD 351 million (AED 1.29

billion), with revenues climbing 28%

to USD 1.19 billion (AED 4.36 billion).


Digital Assets


Digital currency payments in Dubai strengthen government service efficiency.

What Dubai’s Move to

Accept Digital Currency

for Government Fees

Means

Dubai Embraces Digital Currency Payments for

Government Services, Signalling a Bold Shift in

Financial Innovation and Accessibility.

Dubai’s decision to accept digital currencies

for the payment of government

service fees marks a pivotal step in the

emirate’s digital transformation journey.

This move demonstrates the city’s ambition

to align with global financial innovation

while enhancing convenience for

residents, businesses, and international

investors. By integrating cryptocurrencies

into official transactions, Dubai is reinforcing

its position as a progressive hub

for financial technology. The initiative not

only showcases adaptability to emerging

payment systems but also underlines the

emirate’s broader vision of becoming a

leader in building a secure, transparent,

and future-focused digital economy.


Dubai has long positioned itself

at the forefront of digital transformation,

and its latest step in

financial innovation is set to reinforce

this reputation. By moving to accept

digital currencies for government

service fees, the emirate is signalling

a future where crypto is not merely

an investment asset but a functional

payment medium. This bold step aims

to enhance customer convenience,

attract global investors, and cement

Dubai’s position as a leader in financial

innovation. The implications of this

move are significant, spanning from

economic growth to regulatory considerations,

with ripple effects across

the wider Gulf region.

Dubai’s government has consistently

emphasised the importance of

financial modernisation. Accepting

digital currencies for official transactions

highlights a clear commitment

to adopting technologies that align

with the future of global finance. This

Integrating digital

currencies into

government services

reflects our commitment

to innovation and building

a secure, future-ready

economy.”

His Excellency Omar Sultan Al Olama,

Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence,

Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications

decision not only caters to the growing

population of crypto holders within the

emirate but also signals to the world

that Dubai is prepared to experiment

with advanced payment ecosystems.

It reflects a mindset of inclusivity,

appealing to residents, expatriates,

and international investors seeking

seamless ways to interact with government

institutions.

Transforming Government Payments

Through Crypto Adoption

The adoption of digital currencies

for government services represents a

milestone in consumer convenience.

Traditionally, government fees are

paid via conventional methods such

as cash, cards, or bank transfers.

Introducing cryptocurrencies as an

additional channel reduces friction in

the payment process. For digital-savvy

residents and businesses, this option

provides flexibility and speed. It also

brings a new level of transparency,

as blockchain-based payments are

trackable and secure. By modernising

its payment infrastructure, Dubai is

actively reshaping how its citizens and

corporations engage with government

services.

From an economic perspective,

Dubai’s move is likely to strengthen

its attractiveness as a financial hub.

The emirate has already established

itself as a regional leader in fintech

and blockchain development through

regulatory sandboxes, free zones,

and government-backed innovation

strategies. Allowing crypto payments

integrates seamlessly into these broader

ambitions. For global businesses

seeking a crypto-friendly environment,

Dubai’s policy could serve as

a differentiator when deciding where

to base operations in the Middle East.

Moreover, the acceptance of crypto fees

may encourage foreign investment and

drive demand for blockchain-related

ventures within the emirate.

A key driver behind this initiative

is the changing landscape of global

finance. Across the world, central banks,

corporations, and financial institutions

are exploring digital currencies. By

acting early, Dubai is positioning itself

to remain competitive and ahead of

the curve. While some markets remain

hesitant due to volatility concerns,

Dubai’s pragmatic approach indicates

confidence in the long-term role of

digital assets. This proactive stance

ensures that the emirate will not only

participate in but also shape global

discussions on the future of money.

Setting New Standards in Financial

Security and Regulation

The integration of cryptocurrencies

into government systems, however, is

not without challenges. Price volatility

remains one of the most significant

concerns. Unlike traditional fiat currencies,

digital assets can fluctuate rapidly,

creating uncertainty around payment

values. To address this, Dubai may rely

on stablecoins or regulated payment

processors that instantly convert crypto

into dirhams, ensuring stability for both

users and the government. Establishing

robust frameworks to mitigate risks

will be crucial for long-term adoption.

Cybersecurity is another area requiring

careful attention. While blockchain

itself is secure, the wider digital asset

ecosystem can be vulnerable to hacks,

fraud, and illicit transactions. Dubai’s

existing commitment to digital safety

and its strong regulatory oversight will

be critical in safeguarding transactions.

Clear compliance measures, stringent

know-your-customer procedures, and

advanced fraud detection systems will

need to underpin this new payment

ecosystem to maintain public trust.

Regulation and governance also play

a defining role in the rollout of crypto

payments. Dubai has already taken

significant steps to regulate the virtual

asset sector through bodies like the

Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority

(VARA). The acceptance of crypto for

government fees will further necessitate

comprehensive guidelines covering

taxation, auditing, and operational

procedures. This will help align the

new framework with international

financial standards while maintaining

Dubai’s appeal as a progressive hub

for innovation.

Beyond regulatory and technical

considerations, the cultural significance

of this move cannot be overlooked.

Accepting cryptocurrencies as official

payment enhances public confidence in

their legitimacy. It marks a shift from

viewing digital assets solely as speculative

investments to recognising them

as everyday financial instruments. This

cultural transition will likely encourage

broader adoption, and stimulate fintech

innovation.


Merger and Acquisition News

UAE Drives M&A Momentum with $25.4 Billion in H1 2025 Deals

The UAE led merger and acquisition

activity in the Middle East during

the first half of 2025, securing $25.4

billion in deal value. This momentum

positioned the country at the forefront

of regional investment activity and reinforced

its role as a hub for cross-border

transactions. The MENA region recorded

425 deals worth a total of $58.7 billion,

reflecting a 19 percent year on year increase

in value. Cross-border transactions

UAE and Saudi Arabia

Fuel $59 Billion M&A

Surge in the Middle

East

The UAE and Saudi Arabia were

the driving forces behind a strong

surge in merger and acquisition

activity across the Middle East during

the first half of 2025. Together, the two

countries accounted for $27.9 billion

of the total $58.7 billion recorded in

regional transactions. The UAE dominated

with $25.4 billion, while Saudi Arabia

contributed $2.5 billion. The performance

marked the region’s strongest first half

in five years, underpinned by mega deals

in the chemicals and technology sectors.

Sovereign wealth funds were instrumental,

backing more than 50 transactions with

a combined value of over $21 billion.

Cross-border activity dominated both

volume and value, confirming the Middle

East’s growing appeal to global investors

and its strategic importance in reshaping

sectoral investment trends.

represented the majority, contributing

more than half of deal volume and nearly

four fifths of overall value. Chemicals

and technology emerged as the leading

sectors, with the acquisition of a majority

stake in Borouge standing out as a

landmark deal. Sovereign wealth funds

and government related entities continued

to play a key role, accounting for a

significant portion of transaction value

in the first half of 2025.

IFS Acquires 7bridges to Enhance Industrial Supply

Chain Capabilities with AI

IFS, a global leader in industrial AI

software, has announced the acquisition

of 7bridges, a provider of

AI powered supply chain management

solutions. This move strengthens IFS’s

position in logistics and transportation

optimization by incorporating 7bridges’

specialized capabilities in AI simulation

and analytics. The 7bridges platform is

designed for industrial supply chains,

offering rapid, low cost data capture,

a structured semantic data layer and

powerful AI to tackle complex logistics

challenges. By integrating 7bridges

into IFS Cloud, the company plans to

accelerate development of next generation

AI enabled supply chain solutions

across asset and service oriented

sectors such as manufacturing and

aerospace and defense. The acquisition

follows IFS’s recent investments in AI,

including the acquisition of TheLoops

and the launch of Nexus Black, its AI

innovation accelerator.

VT Markets Secures SCA Licence in the UAE

VT Markets has obtained a Category

5 license from the UAE’s Securities

and Commodities Authority

(SCA) for its Dubai branch, operating

under license number 20200000299.

This authorisation empowers the firm

to perform regulated activities such as

introduction and promotion of financial

services within the UAE market. The

licence strengthens VT Markets’ regulatory

credentials and highlights its commitment

to secure and compliant operations in

the region. While this enables them to

bring clients into regulated entities, it

does not permit the firm to hold client

funds or execute trades directly. The new

licence positions VT Markets Dubai as

a trusted financial services partner in a

fast-evolving market and supports its

broader ambition to enhance presence

and licensing in key global jurisdictions

through a robust regulatory approach.


Multiply Acquires 68 % Stake in Spanish Fashion Retailer Tendam

Multiply Group, the Abu Dhabi-listed

investment holding

firm, has acquired approximately

67.91 percent of Castellano

Investments, the owner of Tendam,

Spain’s second-largest apparel group.

The acquisition values the company at

an enterprise value of around AED 5.6

billion (approximately USD 1.5 billion).

Tendam operates over 1,800 retail outlets

across more than 80 markets, including

Spain, Portugal, France, the UAE and

Latin America, and owns established

brands like Women’Secret, Springfield,

Cortefiel and Pedro del Hierro. Multiply’s

investment forms its first major entry

into Europe and launches a new retail

and apparel vertical, with Tendam as

its core platform. Following the deal,

CVC Funds and PAI Partners retain a

minority share. Multiply plans to drive

Tendam’s growth through international

expansion across Europe, Latin America

and the Middle East and will support

brand innovation using AI and strategic

mergers and acquisitions.

ServeU Acquires

House Keeping in AED

100M Deal

ServeU, the facilities management

subsidiary of Union Properties,

has acquired House Keeping LLC,

House Keeping Domestic Workers LLC,

and their subsidiary in a transaction valued

at AED 100 million (approximately

USD 27.23 million). This strategic acquisition

will strengthen ServeU’s market

presence and operational capacity in the

UAE. House Keeping, recognized as the

country’s second-largest provider in its

segment, brings a dedicated workforce

of 136 housekeeping professionals and

around 8,700 domestic workers. In FY

2024, the company generated AED

221.1 million in revenue and recorded

EBITDA of AED 21.4 million. Under the

terms of the deal, the acquired entities

will retain their brand identities while

operating under ServeU’s ownership.

The integration, set to take effect in

August 2025, is projected to contribute

about 23 percent to ServeU’s revenue

and boost EBITDA by 33 percent,

enhancing its service delivery and

growth trajectory.

UK Clears Boeing’s $4.7B Takeover of Spirit

AeroSystems

The UK’s Competition and Markets

Authority has given its approval

for Boeing’s proposed $4.7 billion

acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems,

concluding that the deal does not raise

competition concerns in the UK market.

The regulator had launched an initial

review in June and confirmed that it

would not proceed with an in-depth

investigation, issuing clearance ahead

of the August 28 deadline. Spirit, the

world’s largest independent aerostructures

manufacturer, will now return under

Boeing’s ownership nearly 20 years

after being spun off. The acquisition

is a strategic move by Boeing to bring

greater control over its supply chain,

improve manufacturing efficiency, and

address persistent quality challenges

that have impacted its aircraft production.

While the UK approval marks an

important milestone, the transaction

still requires clearances from regulators

in other jurisdictions, including the

United States and the European Union.

Gulf Bank and Warba Bank Appoint Advisors for

Potential Merger

Gulf Bank and Warba Bank, both

listed on Boursa Kuwait, have

each appointed advisory teams

to conduct feasibility studies and due

diligence in connection with their

proposed merger. Warba Bank has

engaged Bain & Company as management

consultant, J.P. Morgan as lead

financial advisor, Al Shall Consulting

as local investment advisor, Clifford

Chance as lead legal advisor, and Al

Tamimi & Co as local legal advisor.

Gulf Bank has secured Goldman Sachs

as its investment consultant, McKinsey

Kuwait for commercial consulting,

PwC for financial and tax matters,

International Counsel Bureau as local

legal advisor, and Freshfields Bruckhaus

Deringer as global legal advisor.

Both banks received approval from the

Central Bank of Kuwait to appoint these

advisors. This collaboration follows a

Memorandum of Understanding signed

in mid-2025 and represents an important

milestone in creating a unified Islamic

banking institution in Kuwait.


Telecommunication


5G-Advanced rollout empowers UAE with ultra-fast connectivity, driving innovation, and progress.

du Hits 5G-Advanced

Milestone in the UAE:

What the Live Network

Rollout Really Means

du Launches 5G-Advanced in the UAE,

Advancing Digital Transformation with

Sustainable Connectivity.

The UAE has once again demonstrated

its leadership in digital transformation

with du achieving a major milestone by

launching 5G-Advanced on its live network.

This development makes the nation

the first in the Middle East to roll out the

next generation of mobile technology,

reinforcing its position as a global hub

for connectivity and innovation. The

deployment promises faster speeds, ultra-low

latency, and greater reliability

while aligning with sustainability goals.

Beyond enhanced consumer experiences,

it opens vast opportunities for enterprises,

smart city initiatives, and industrial

applications that will define the future

digital economy.


The UAE has marked another

milestone in its journey towards

becoming a global leader in

digital transformation with du announcing

the successful deployment

of 5G-Advanced technology on its live

network. This achievement makes the

nation the first in the Middle East to

roll out this next-generation capability,

solidifying its position at the forefront

of telecommunications innovation. By

collaborating with global technology

partners, du is shaping the foundation

for a future where ultra-fast, reliable,

and sustainable connectivity powers

both consumer and enterprise

5G-Advanced strengthens

the UAE’s innovation

agenda, supporting

smart cities, industries,

and sustainable digital

growth.”

H.E. Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of

State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital

Economy and Remote Work Applications

ecosystems.

At the core of the rollout lies the

world’s first 64T64R Dual Band Active

Antenna Unit, operating across

the 3.7 GHz and 2.6 GHz spectrum

bands. This technical upgrade offers

significant enhancements in capacity,

coverage, and spectrum efficiency

while simultaneously reducing energy

consumption and equipment complexity.

For end-users, this translates

to higher quality connections, faster

speeds, and better service delivery in

both urban and remote environments.

For the industry, it represents a critical

step toward building a resilient digital

infrastructure that can scale alongside

the demands of the future economy.

Transforming Connectivity and

User Experience

The benefits of 5G-Advanced are manifold.

Consumers will now be able to

experience ultra-fast speeds reaching

up to 5.4 Gbps, with average data rates

improving by as much as one-third

compared to existing 5G networks.

This ensures seamless performance for

activities such as 8K video streaming,

high-definition video conferencing,

cloud gaming, and immersive augmented

or virtual reality experiences.

Enhanced uplink speeds and stronger

performance at the edge of network

cells will further reduce the frustrations

often associated with patchy

coverage, delivering a more consistent

user experience across the country.

For enterprises, the opportunities

are even more transformative. The

rollout introduces capabilities that

support massive Internet of Things

deployments, ultra-reliable low latency

communication, and machine-to-machine

connectivity at an unprecedented

scale. Businesses in sectors

such as healthcare, manufacturing,

logistics, and energy stand to benefit

from real-time monitoring, intelligent

automation, and improved operational

efficiency. Industrial applications requiring

split-second responsiveness,

such as autonomous vehicles and

robotic process automation, can now

be developed and deployed more

effectively within the UAE’s borders.

Enterprise, Sustainability, and

Smart Ecosystem Advancement

One of the most critical aspects of the

5G-Advanced rollout is its alignment

with the UAE’s broader sustainability

objectives. By integrating multiple

spectrum bands within a single antenna

structure, du has successfully reduced

the power required to deliver greater

network capacity. This move significantly

lowers the carbon footprint

associated with telecom infrastructure,

demonstrating that cutting-edge connectivity

and environmental responsibility

can progress hand in hand. For

a nation committed to net-zero goals,

such energy-efficient innovations are

a vital part of the digital economy’s

sustainable future.

The deployment also reinforces

the UAE’s strategic role as a global

technology hub. By leading the introduction

of 5G-Advanced in the region,

the country strengthens its appeal to

investors, entrepreneurs, and innovators

seeking a digitally advanced base

of operations. The enhanced network

capabilities create fertile ground for

start-ups and established companies

alike to test, scale, and commercialise

next-generation services. In this sense,

the rollout is not just a milestone for

telecommunications but also a catalyst

for economic diversification and global

competitiveness.

On the enterprise side, industries

such as transport, energy, and healthcare

stand to gain substantially. Smart

transport systems will benefit from

ultra-low latency, enabling safer and

more responsive mobility solutions.

Energy providers can leverage the

technology for smart grid management,

predictive maintenance, and improved

resource allocation. Healthcare institutions

will have the ability to use

real-time data transmission to power

telemedicine, connected devices, and

advanced diagnostic technologies.

The reliability and responsiveness of

5G-Advanced make it a foundational

layer for mission-critical applications

where downtime is simply not an option.

Global Innovation Leadership and

Economic Diversification

The deployment also serves as a precursor

to future technological advancements.

By laying the groundwork for

smart city ecosystems, du is enabling

urban planners to adopt digital infrastructure

capable of dynamically responding

to real-world conditions. This

includes intelligent traffic management,

connected utilities, and automated

safety systems. As more devices and

services become interconnected, the

importance of a secure, high-capacity,

low-latency network will only continue

to grow. The UAE’s early move into

5G-Advanced ensures it remains ahead

of global trends in building future-ready

cities and industries.


Sports News

Sheikh Mansour Joins Residents for Volleyball at Abu Dhabi Summer Sports

During a recent appearance at the

Abu Dhabi Summer Sports event

held at the Abu Dhabi National

Exhibition Centre, His Highness Sheikh

Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan unexpectedly

stepped onto the volleyball

court, joining local athletes in a friendly

match. The surprise participation

added a vibrant and inclusive touch

to the occasion, embodying the UAE

leadership’s commitment to shared

Zayed Charity Run in Beijing

Highlights Strength

of UAE-China Relations

The Zayed Charity Run, an international

sporting inspired by

the legacy of the late Sheikh

Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, will hold

its Beijing edition along the iconic

Great Wall at the Mutianyu section on

21 September 2025. The event forms

part of a wider collaboration between

the UAE and China that celebrates

friendship, cultural exchange, and

community participation. This year’s

edition will include the Huairou Great

Wall Marathon together with 5 km and

10 km community runs that encourage

wide participation. A robot race will be

introduced, reflecting innovation and

creativity within the sporting event.

Alongside the athletic competitions,

a number of family-oriented cultural

programmes and activities for People

of Determination will also take place,

culminating in a gala awards ceremony.

With registration open to more

than 51,000 expected participants

from both countries, the initiative

reflects the shared values of charity,

and healthy living that underpin the

strong and growing ties between the

UAE and China.

community engagement and an active

lifestyle. Sheikh Mansour toured the

expansive, climate-controlled venue,

spanning over 37,000 square meters,

and met with organizers to learn more

about the diverse programs on offer,

designed to cater to individual athletes,

families, and children alike. With more

than 52 indoor courts and pitches for

over 12 team sports and its own indoor

running track.

UAE’s Alia Abdulsalam Sets Personal Best in

Formula 4 Powerboat Time Trial

Emirati powerboat racer Alia Abdulsalam

Fairooz, representing

Team Mubadala, delivered an

impressive performance at the opening

round of the Scandinavian Formula 4

Powerboat Championship in Norway.

Despite facing a technical malfunction

that kept her out of the main race, she

achieved a personal best lap time of

48.34 seconds during the free practice

and official time trial sessions. This

milestone reflects her growing skill

and determination to compete at the

highest level, showcasing resilience

under challenging conditions. Team

Mubadala commended her progress,

noting her ability to consistently improve

and adapt with each race outing.

The team will now move into a short but

focused training camp in Sonja, Norway,

as part of their preparations for the

upcoming championship round in Italy

on 15 September. Alia’s achievement is

not only a personal triumph but also

a promising sign for the UAE’s representation

in international powerboat

racing, inspiring more young Emiratis to

pursue competitive motorsport careers.

Sardar Azmoum & Hamad Almeqbaali Shine in

UAE Pro League Awards

At a glittering ceremony held on

August 9, 2025 at Abu Dhabi’s

Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental,

Shabab Al Ahli dominated the 2024–25

UAE Pro League Awards, confirming

their status as the season’s standout

team. The evening’s spotlight fell on

Sardar Azmoum, who was crowned

with the prestigious Golden Ball as

Best Player after an outstanding debut

campaign in which he registered 11 goals

and 6 assists in 21 league matches. His

consistent attacking brilliance earned

him recognition as one of the league’s

top performers. Equally impressive

was Hamad Almeqbaali, who claimed

the Golden Glove award for his exceptional

goalkeeping, cementing Shabab

Al Ahli’s strength in defence. Further

honours saw Paulo Sousa named Best

Coach, Guilherme Da Silva awarded

the Golden Boy for best U-23 talent,

Nabil Fekir credited with Goal of the

Year, and Mohamed Elneny voted Fans’

Player of the Year.


Rashid Al Mulla Secures Bronze in Aquabike World Championship

Emirati aquabike sensation Rashid

Al Mulla, representing Team Abu

Dhabi under the Abu Dhabi Marine

Sports Club, claimed the bronze

medal in the Freestyle category at the

opening round of the Aquabike World

Championship—Grand Prix of Indonesia,

held on Lake Toba. The world champion

demonstrated resilience and prowess

amid fierce competition, earning a commendable

total of 40 points, trailing

Penge Crowned Closing

Swing Champion

on DP World Tour

English golfer Marco Penge has

been named the Closing Swing

Champion on the DP World

Tour following his victory at the Made

in Denmark Championship, marking a

landmark achievement in his season.

The win was his second on tour this

year, following his earlier triumph

at the Hainan Classic in China, and

helped him amass 1,051 Closing Swing

points. This success propelled him

to second place in the Race to Dubai

rankings, significantly advancing his

season objectives. As Closing Swing

champion, Penge earned a US $200,000

bonus and secured automatic entry

into the “Back 9” series, a sequence of

nine prestigious tournaments leading

up to the season-ending DP World Tour

Play-Offs taking place in Abu Dhabi

and Dubai. In Denmark, he finished at

16-under-par, edging out local favorite

Rasmus Højgaard, who came in at

15-under-par.

Italy’s Roberto Mariani, who took gold

with 50 points, and Massimo Accumulo,

who secured silver with 44 points. The

Grand Prix marked the first stop of the

season and set the stage for the next

round in Olbia, Italy, scheduled from

October 17–19. Al Mulla’s achievement

reflects his ongoing dominance and

consistency at the highest level of his

sport, reinforcing his status as a global

standout in freestyle aquabike racing.

Sheikh Khaled Welcomes UFC President to Strengthen

Abu Dhabi’s Sporting Vision

His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin

Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan,

Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi

and Chairman of the Executive Council,

recently welcomed Dana White,

President of the Ultimate Fighting

Championship, during a meeting in

Abu Dhabi. The discussion centred on

strengthening cooperation between

the UFC and Abu Dhabi, building on a

successful partnership that has already

brought globally renowned mixed

martial arts events to the emirate.

Sheikh Khaled emphasised the UAE’s

commitment to supporting worldclass

sporting events and developing

The second edition of the Khaled

bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu

Championship (No-Gi) kicked off

its fifth round at Al Nasr Club in Dubai,

drawing widespread participation from

clubs and academies across the UAE.

By the end of the opening day, Sharjah

Self-Defence Sports Club emerged at the

top of the standings, followed closely by

Al Ain Jiu-Jitsu Club in second place and

Abu Dhabi as a leading destination

for international athletes, fans, and

investors.

Sharjah Self-Defence Takes Early Lead at No-Gi

Jiu-Jitsu Championship

ADMA (Abu Dhabi Martial Arts) in third.

The competition featured intense and

skilful bouts in the under-12, under-14,

and under-16 categories, where young

athletes showcased their technical ability,

rapid responses, and precise execution.

The strong organisational support and

enthusiastic participation underscored

the growing popularity and institutional

backing for jiu-jitsu in the UAE.


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