Finance World Magazine

Global Outlook 2026 - How Capital, Trade, and Innovation Are Shifting How the UAE’s 2026 Tax Reforms are Redefining Business Confidence

The Fourth Pole: How the UAE Is Anchoring the World's Next Great Economic Region Inside the Future of Middle East Warehousing and Logistics

January 2026

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The only way to discover the limits

Editor’s of

Note the

possible is to go beyond them into the impossible.

The UAE enters 2026 with strong momentum across its

economic, regulatory, and technological landscape.

This edition highlights the shifts most relevant to

decision-makers, developments that are no longer forecasts,

but active transformations already reshaping markets,

institutions, and investor behavior.

This month, we examine how future-readiness is taking

tangible form across the economy. We look at where capital is

moving in real estate and why investor confidence continues

to hold at exceptional levels. We also assess the banking

sector’s transition away from SMS and email OTPs, a clear

signal of how digital identity and security frameworks are

being redefined for the next era. Policy transformation

remains a central driver. The UAE’s 2026 tax reforms and

Dubai’s record-setting budget demonstrate how fiscal

strategy is being deployed to attract global business, elevate

competitiveness, and reinforce the country’s position as a

hub for wealth, innovation, and long-term growth.

Our cover story features Patrick Ngan, Chief Investment

Officer at Zeta Network Group where he discusses how

institutions should approach digital assets, the evolution of

Bitcoin as a treasury instrument, and why governance, not

speculation, should drive institutional adoption. Drawing on

his experience across Hong Kong, New York, Singapore, and

Tokyo, he offers a measured perspective on what distinguishes

experimentation from operational integration.

Amid this momentum, 2026 is also the Year

of the Family, a reminder that national progress

is strongest when economic ambition is

anchored in social stability and community priorities. It

provides an important backdrop to the broader transformation

underway.

This edition brings together the developments that matter

most today, the forces that will shape how people invest,

build, innovate, and live in the year ahead.

Welcome to the January 2026 edition.

MCFILL MEDIA MCFILL & MEDIA &

PUBLISHING PUBLISHING GROUP GROUP

Ambrish Agarwal, Editor in Chief

Ambrish Agarwal, Editor in Chief

Published by and © McFill Media & Publishing Group FZE LLC

Published by and © McFill Media & Publishing Group FZE LLC

January 2026 www.thefinanceworld.com 5

Contents January

2026

COVER STORY

FINANCE

P14 | How the UAE’s 2026 Tax Reforms

are Redefining Business Confidence

From compliance to competitiveness, the UAE’s

tax reforms are redefining how businesses plan,

invest, and grow.

INTERVIEW

P25 | GOVERNANCE MANDATE

Explore Patrick Ngan’s insights on digital assets, Bitcoin as a

treasury tool, and governance-driven adoption.

INVESTMENT

P10 | Where to Park Capital in UAE Real Estate in 2026

As returns diverge across asset classes, these are the UAE real estate

segments drawing long-term capital in 2026.

P36 | How AI Is Transforming the

Financial Services Landscape

Manoj Sureka discusses the AI-driven evolution of

the financial sector.

6 www.thefinanceworld.com January 2026

GLOBAL

MARKET INSIGHTS

P32 | Global Outlook 2026 - How Capital, Trade,

and Innovation Are Shifting

A forward look at 2026 with investment commerce and innovation

driving worldwide change.

OPINION PIECE

P46 | Dubai Real Estate 2026: Record

Growth & Investor Outlook

Dubai’s real estate market is set for record growth,

offering fresh opportunities for investors.

INTERVIEW

P20 | The Fourth Pole: How the UAE Is Anchoring the

World’s Next Great Economic Region

Dr. Yasar Jarrar explores the UAE’s role in anchoring the world’s next

major economic region.

P64 | Inside the Future of Middle

East Warehousing and Logistics

Rami Younes shares his vision for the evolving

logistics sector in the Middle East.


GROW YOUR

BUSINESS

We make Short / Long Term

Investments in Growing Businesses

info@wasayainvestments.com

www.wasayainvestments.com

Investment

Source: Ai generated

Modern apartments and villas in Abu Dhabi and Dubai showcase the UAE’s growing and diverse real estate landscape in 2026.

Where to Park Capital

in UAE Real Estate in

2026

UAE Real Estate in 2026 Offers Opportunities

for Steady Income, Long-Term Growth, and

Vibrant Communities.

As the UAE real estate market heads into

2026, investors are navigating a landscape

shaped by population growth, infrastructure

expansion, evolving regulations,

and shifting supply-demand dynamics.

The focus is no longer solely on price

appreciation but on where capital can

generate reliable returns within realistic

timeframes. With opportunities spanning

residential, commercial, luxury, and industrial

assets across different emirates,

choosing the right segment has become

critical. Understanding yield potential,

investment timelines, and risk exposure

is essential, particularly as oversupply

concerns emerge in certain markets. A

disciplined approach is now key to maximising

returns while protecting capital

in an increasingly selective environment.


As investors assess where to deploy

capital in UAE real estate in

2026, one principle stands above

all others: returns matter. Whether the

objective is immediate rental income,

long-term appreciation, or capital

preservation, property investments

must be evaluated through the lens of

achievable returns, realistic timelines,

and market risk.

A critical point often overlooked

by new investors is the difference between

projected returns and realised

returns. In particular, investors seeking

immediate income should avoid offplan

residential properties in Dubai.

While off-plan developments may

appear attractive due to lower entry

prices and flexible payment plans, they

are not designed to deliver short-term

returns. In most cases, it takes at least

three to four years from construction

to handover and post-handover market

absorption before meaningful

rental income or appreciation can be

achieved. Construction delays, handover

timelines, and increased supply at

completion can all impact cash flow and

pricing, making off-plan investments

unsuitable for investors focused on

near-term ROI.

For investors prioritising stability

and predictable income, Abu Dhabi

continues to stand out. The capital

has experienced steady rental growth

across multiple residential segments,

supported by population expansion,

government initiatives, and more controlled

supply levels compared to Dubai.

Apartments and mid-sized residential

units have seen particularly strong

demand, driven by professionals and

families seeking long-term housing.

Established communities such as Al

Reem Island, Saadiyat Island, Yas Island,

Al Raha Beach, Masdar City, and Khalifa

City offer a compelling mix of modern

infrastructure, lifestyle amenities, and

consistent tenant demand. These areas

provide relatively stable occupancy

rates and dependable rental yields,

making them well-suited for investors

seeking income-generating assets

rather than speculative gains. Regulatory

clarity and government-backed

development strategies further enhance

Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a lower-risk

market for long-term investors.

Dubai, by contrast, offers higher

potential rewards accompanied by

higher risk. A significant volume of

new residential units is expected to

enter the market in 2026, particularly

in mid-market and suburban locations.

This increase in supply may moderate

price growth and place pressure on

We see a real demand

today for homes in the

UAE, not speculative

buying. People are moving

here to live and make this

country their home.”

H.E. Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri,

UAE Minister of Economy and Tourism

rental yields in certain zones. As a result,

investors must be highly selective

when allocating capital in Dubai.

That said, specific submarkets continue

to demonstrate resilience. Areas

such as Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC),

Al Furjan, Arjan, Dubai South, and

communities surrounding Expo City

benefit from improved infrastructure,

transport connectivity, and lifestyle

amenities. These factors support steady

rental demand and make such locations

suitable for investors focused on rental

income and long-term holding strategies,

rather than short-term capital

appreciation.

The luxury segment remains a distinct

category within the UAE real estate

market. High-end villas and premium

apartments continue to attract investors

with significant capital and longer

investment horizons. Limited supply,

prime locations, and strong lifestyle

appeal help luxury assets retain value

even during periods of market moderation.

While luxury properties may

not deliver rapid returns, they play an

important role in capital preservation

and portfolio diversification, offering

premium rental income and long-term

appreciation potential.

Beyond traditional residential assets,

mixed-use developments and sustainable

projects are gaining prominence.

Communities that integrate residential,

commercial, retail, and leisure elements

offer convenience-driven lifestyles

that appeal to long-term tenants and

end-users. Properties with energy-efficient

designs and green certifications

are increasingly favoured, as tenants

become more cost- and sustainability-conscious.

These features can enhance

tenant retention, support rental

premiums, and strengthen long-term

asset value.

Commercial real estate, industrial

properties, and logistics assets are

also emerging as important areas

for capital allocation. Office spaces,

coworking hubs, and retail units in

established business districts are benefiting

from the influx of multinational

companies, startups, and technology

firms relocating to the UAE. At the

same time, warehouses, distribution

centres, and last-mile logistics hubs

are seeing sustained demand driven

by e-commerce growth and regional

trade expansion. These asset classes

provide diversified income streams

and can help offset volatility in the

residential market.

Infrastructure development continues

to play a decisive role in shaping

long-term real estate performance.

Ongoing investments in metro expansions,

national rail networks, freight

corridors, and urban planning initiatives

are improving connectivity across

emirates. Areas located near major

transport links and infrastructure projects

are likely to experience stronger

demand and gradual value appreciation.

Investors who align capital with

infrastructure-led growth corridors

are better positioned to benefit from

long-term structural demand.

For 2026, the UAE real estate market

offers a wide range of opportunities

across different emirates and property

types for maximising returns

while managing risks in a dynamic and

evolving market.


Funding & Investment News

UAE Feeder Fund to

Commit 1,000 Crore to

Kerala’s Startup Ecosystem

A

UAE‐based feeder fund, led by

the Global Alliance, has pledged

to invest 1,000 crore in startups

across Kerala over the next three

years, marking a significant boost for

the state’s innovation landscape. Announced

during the closing ceremony

of Huddle Global 2025 in Kovalam, the

fund is designed to engage the global

NRI community in supporting Kerala’s

emerging ventures and dovetails with

the Kerala Startup Mission’s existing

Funds‐of‐Funds programme. Kerala

Startup Mission CEO Anoop Ambika

highlighted the announcement as a key

achievement of the festival, showcasing

the strength and potential of the

region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

The initiative aims to provide financial

backing as well as mentorship and

market access opportunities, strengthening

local startups’ capacity to scale

and compete globally.

UAE Among World’s Fastest-Growing

Economies

in 2025

The United Arab Emirates strengthened

its status in 2025 as one of

the world’s fastest-expanding

economies, propelled by dynamic

non-oil sectors, significant foreign and

domestic investment, business-friendly

policies, and a flexible regulatory

framework. Non-oil foreign trade surged

24.5 per cent in the first half of 2025,

reaching AED1.7 trillion, approximately

14 times higher than the global average

growth rate. According to the UN

Conference on Trade and Development

(UNCTAD) World Investment Report

2025, the UAE ranked 10th worldwide

for inbound foreign direct investment

(FDI) in 2024, attracting AED167.6 billion.

The International Monetary Fund

upgraded its 2025 growth forecast for

the UAE to 4.8 per cent, while Fitch,

Moody’s, and S&P Global maintained the

country’s sovereign ratings, highlighting

its strong economic performance and

prudent fiscal management.

Pakistan Courts UAE Investment to Boost

Economic Growth

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz

Sharif on Tuesday reaffirmed

Pakistan’s firm commitment to

further strengthening relations with the

United Arab Emirates, inviting greater

UAE investment in priority sectors to

promote economic growth and longterm

stability. During a meeting with

UAE Ambassador to Pakistan Salem

Mohammed Salem Al Zaabi at the

Prime Minister’s House, the premier

underscored the deep-rooted, brotherly

ties between the two countries

and emphasized the need to broaden

cooperation in trade, energy, minerals,

information technology, railways,

and aviation. Ambassador Al Zaabi

reiterated his country’s resolve to

deepen bilateral engagement, enhance

economic collaboration, and explore

new avenues of partnership, noting that

expanded cooperation would deliver

mutual benefits and further strengthen.

DIFC Becomes Top Five Global Hub for Hedge

Fund Managers

The Dubai International Financial

Centre (DIFC) has marked a major

milestone by registering its

100th hedge fund, cementing its position

as a leading global hub for the industry.

In 2025, prominent newcomers such as

Baron Capital Management, BlueCrest

Capital, Naya Capital Management, Nine

Masts Capital, North Rock Capital, Pearl

Diver Capital, Select Equity Group,

Strategic Investment Group, Silver

Point Capital, Squarepoint Capital,

and Welwing Capital Group joined the

centre. They join established global

players including Balyasny, BlackRock,

Brevan Howard, Dymon Asia, Millennium,

Qube Research and Technologies,

and Verition. Managers are attracted by

DIFC’s access to Asian, European, and

American markets, and opportunities

to raise capital from family offices,

UHNWI, and sovereign wealth funds.

Abu Dhabi Investment Office Teams Up With

Primavera Capital To Draw Global Firms

The Abu Dhabi Investment Office

(ADIO) has forged a strategic

collaboration with Primavera

Capital, a prominent global investment

management firm, to attract

high‐growth companies to Abu

Dhabi’s thriving business landscape.

Announced at Abu Dhabi Finance

Week, the partnership aims to increase

cross‐border capital flows, deepen

investor connections and support

the expansion of international firms

within the emirate. Together, ADIO

and Primavera will leverage Abu Dhabi’s

robust capital markets and global

connectivity to accelerate strengthen

the Fintech, Insurance, Digital and Alternative

Investments (FIDA) cluster.

Primavera’s extensive ecosystem of

portfolio companies, start‐ups and

innovation partners will gain support

to enter and scale in Abu Dhabi, particularly

in technology, healthcare,

sustainability and lifestyle sectors.


IHC Increases Stake in Invictus Investment to 40% with $114M Injection

International Holding Company

(IHC), the Abu Dhabi‐based global

investment firm, has significantly increased

its stake in Invictus Investment

Company PLC to approximately 40 per

cent by acquiring an additional 17.5 per

cent shareholding in a major block

trade valued at about AED 420 million

(around $114 million). Invictus, which

is listed on the Abu Dhabi Securities

Exchange, operates across key global

trade corridors in food commodities,

industrial inputs, logistics and supply

chain solutions. The company delivered

robust first‐half financial results in 2025,

with EBITDA increasing 164 per cent

year‐on‐year and revenue rising 43 per

cent, its strongest performance since

listing. IHC’s expanded investment

underlines its confidence in Invictus’s

and reinforces its exposure to essential

global trade and supply‐chain sectors.

ADIO and Bain Capital Forge Strategic Alliance

on New FIDA Financial Hub


(ADIO) has entered a strategic

partnership with global investment

firm Bain Capital to support the

firm’s regional growth and bolster the

emirate’s emerging Fintech, Insurance,

Digital and Alternative Assets (FIDA)

cluster. Announced at Abu Dhabi

Finance Week 2025, the collaboration

aims to build advanced financial

infrastructure spanning areas such

as fintech, digital assets, alternative

investments and SME capital platforms

while strengthening Abu Dhabi’s position

as a global asset management

centre. Under the alliance, ADIO and

Bain Capital will work together on

establishing Abu Dhabi‐based alternative

investment platforms, pursue

co‐investment opportunities across the

region and support talent development,

drawing on Bain’s extensive expertise

and global network.

UAE, Ireland Launch Committee to Boost Trade

The UAE hosted the inaugural

meeting of the Joint Economic

Committee (JEC), welcoming

Peter Burke TD, Ireland’s Minister of

Enterprise, Trade, and Employment.

The session marked an important step

forward, as both nations continue

strengthening economic cooperation.

It brought together senior officials,

private-sector leaders, and business

representatives to explore shared

opportunities across high-potential

sectors. During his opening remarks,

Saeed Al Hajeri underscored the role

of the JEC in driving long-term collaboration.

He highlighted areas such

as technology, agribusiness, life sciences,

and sustainable infrastructure.

As he noted, “The Joint Economic

Committee demonstrates our shared

commitment to enhance collaboration

between our nations and provides a

crucial opportunity to further strengthen

our economic partnership.”

ADIO and CICC Forge Abu

Dhabi–China Investment

to Deepen Capital Market


(ADIO) has partnered with China

International Capital Corporation

(CICC) to set up an investment

corridor to accelerate two-way capital

flows between the emirate and China.

ADIO and CICC will develop structures

that will allow Abu Dhabi-based

institutional investors to participate

directly in China’s capital markets.

The new venture will also identify

Chinese companies seeking to expand

operations to Abu Dhabi. The offerings

also include a two-way market-access

advisory, and ESG-linked financing

covering green bonds, transition-linked

loans and sustainable private equity.

The Asian investment bank will base

its regional investment banking operations

in Abu Dhabi. The partnership

coincides with the launch of Abu Dhabi’s

new FinTech, Insurance, Digital

and Alternative Assets (FIDA) cluster,

to expand the emirate’s financial sector

in high-growth areas.


Finance


Businesses in the UAE prepare for new tax rules designed to enhance transparency and economic stability.

How the UAE’s 2026 Tax

Reforms are Redefining

Business Confidence

The UAE’s 2026 Tax Reforms Strengthen

Clarity and Confidence, Reshaping the Business

Landscape for Long-Term Growth.

The UAE’s upcoming 2026 tax reforms

mark a pivotal moment in the nation’s

economic evolution, reflecting its commitment

to strengthening regulatory clarity

and long-term business confidence. As

the country continues to align with global

standards, the new framework introduces

greater transparency, defined timelines

and streamlined compliance processes

that enhance predictability for companies

across all sectors. These changes

arrive at a time when the UAE is accelerating

its diversification agenda, making

the reforms particularly significant for

investors. Together, they signal a more

mature, and innovation-focused business

environment poised for growth, offering

a favorable landscape for both local and

global enterprises.


The United Arab Emirates is entering

a new phase of economic

maturity with the forthcoming

implementation of its 2026 tax reforms.

These measures are designed to enhance

transparency, strengthen regulatory

predictability, and reinforce the nation’s

attractiveness as a destination for

global investment. The reforms reflect a

broader policy orientation in which the

UAE seeks to maintain a competitive

tax environment while aligning with

international best practices, thereby

providing businesses with greater

confidence in long-term planning.

Across sectors such as technology,

real estate, logistics, and professional

services, these reforms signal a decisive

move towards a more coherent and

forward-looking financial framework.

A key element of the reforms is the

establishment of clearer timelines

for refunds, assessments, and audits.

While the UAE has historically been

recognised for its straightforward tax

processes, certain areas, including the

administration of refundable tax credits,

have lacked defined procedures. The

new framework introduces consistent

time limits for the submission and

processing of refund requests, addressing

previous concerns regarding

uncertainty and administrative delays.

By creating a predictable structure for

reclaiming excess tax, the reforms support

improved cash flow management

and mitigate the risk of businesses forfeiting

entitlements due to procedural

ambiguity. Enhanced predictability in

taxation is a critical factor for long-term

investment decisions, and this reform

provides companies with substantially

greater clarity and assurance.

What Lies Beneath the 2026 Agenda

VAT Amendments

No more “self-invoice” under reverse-charge:

Businesses will no longer

be required to issue self-invoices when

the reverse charge mechanism applies.

Instead, they just need to retain standard

supporting documents (invoices,

contracts, supply transaction records)

as per the Executive Regulation. This

reduces paperwork burden while

preserving audit-trail requirements.

Refund claims / excess credit must be

claimed within 5 years: There will now

be a five-year statute of limitations for

reclaiming any excess refundable VAT

(or credit balance) after reconciliation.

The move comes as part

of the UAE’s ongoing

efforts to develop its tax

system and enhance

administrative and

regulatory efficiency.

The amendments aim to

simplify tax procedures

for taxpayers while

ensuring transparency

and compliance with

international standards.”

H.H. Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid

Al Maktoum, Minister of Finance, UAE

After that, the right to reclaim expires.

This prevents the indefinite accumulation

of old VAT credits.

Stricter oversight & possibility of

disallowing input-tax deduction: The

FTA will have the authority to deny

input VAT deduction if it determines

the supply was part of a tax-evasion

scheme or irregular arrangement. Taxpayers

must ensure the legitimacy and

integrity of supplies before claiming

input tax deduction.

What this Means for Businesses

& VAT-Registered Taxpayers in

the UAE

●

If your business uses a reverse-charge

mechanism (e.g. importing services,

●

●

●

certain intra-GCC transactions),

you don’t need to issue a self-invoice

anymore — just keep proper

documentation.

If you expect VAT refunds/credits,

make sure to claim within five years

or you might lose them.

Maintain good due diligence on

suppliers and transactions: ensure

documentation supports legitimacy,

otherwise you risk having input VAT

disallowed.

Review and update your internal

accounting/tax systems to reflect

these changes before January 2026.

Another crucial pillar of the reform

package is the emphasis on transparent

interpretation of tax rules. Companies

often face the challenge of varied

interpretations of legislation, particularly

when operating across multiple

industries and business models. Under

the new framework, authorities will

issue binding explanations that apply

uniformly to both taxpayers and

regulators. This means that once an

interpretation is published, companies

can rely on it with confidence, reducing

the risk of inconsistent outcomes. Such

harmonisation not only enhances the

credibility of the tax system but also

supports the UAE’s wider ambition to

maintain a trusted and stable investment

ecosystem.

Simplifying Compliance for Greater

Efficiency

The simplification of administrative

procedures is a central feature of

the new reforms. Many businesses,

particularly those engaged in sectors

with substantial cross-border transactions,

have historically found compliance

obligations to be time-intensive.

The revised framework streamlines

documentation and record-keeping

requirements. While companies are still

expected to maintain comprehensive

evidence supporting their operations,

the administrative burden is alleviated

through the removal of redundant

steps that previously contributed to

operational inefficiencies. For SMEs,

which often lack extensive in-house tax

expertise, these adjustments are likely

to provide tangible relief. Companies

will benefit from conducting internal

tax health checks in advance to ensure

that current practices align with the

new regulatory requirements.


Business News

UAE’s AD Ports to Introduce MTO for Majority Stake in Egypt’s ALCN

The UAE’s AD Ports Group has

announced plans to launch a

cash Mandatory Tender Offer

(MTO) to acquire an additional stake in

Alexandria Container & Cargo Handling

Company (ALCN), a move that would

enable it to gain majority ownership

in one of Egypt’s largest and most

strategically significant container

terminal operators. ALCN manages

two major Mediterranean terminals

located at Alexandria and El-Dekheila

ports, and controlling the company

is expected to strengthen AD Ports’

broader regional expansion strategy

in Egypt. Under the terms of the MTO,

AD Ports Group will offer EGP 22.99

per share ($0.48), seeking to acquire

approximately 32% to achieve majority

control. The group initially acquired a

19.3% stake in November from Saudi

Egyptian Investment Company.

Dubai Chamber

Sees 13,800 Indian

Companies in 9M’25

A

detailed analysis by Dubai

Chamber of Commerce, one of

the three chambers operating

under the Dubai Chambers network, has

revealed that Indian-owned businesses

continued to dominate as the largest

group of new non-UAE companies

joining the chamber during the first

nine months of 2025. A total of 13,851

Indian companies became members

during this period, representing a

robust year-on-year (YoY) growth of

13.9 percent and underscoring Dubai’s

sustained attractiveness and strategic

significance as a preferred destination

for Indian investors, entrepreneurs,

and business leaders seeking regional

expansion opportunities. Pakistan

ranked second, with 6,850 new companies

registered between Q1 and Q3

2025, reflecting a 13.1 percent increase

compared to the same period in 2024.

Egypt followed closely in third place,

with 3,754 new Egyptian companies

joining the chamber, marking a 4.4 per

cent growth.

Abu Dhabi’s Mubadala to Increase Asia

Allocation to 25% of its Portfolio

Abu Dhabi’s sovereign investor,

Mubadala Investment Company,

has announced plans to

double its exposure to Asia, targeting

nearly 25% of its total portfolio over

the next decade as part of a broader

diversification strategy. Speaking at Abu

Dhabi Finance Week, Mohamed Albadr,

Mubadala’s Head of Asia, described a

“paradigm shift” in the region fuelled

by digitalisation. Currently, Asia represents

around 13% of Mubadala’s $330

Abu Dhabi’s Mubadala Capital

is collaborating with KAIO, a

decentralised finance (DeFi)

protocol, to explore tokenised access

to its private market investment strategies

for qualified institutional and

accredited investors. The initiative

seeks to evaluate how KAIO’s regulated

digital infrastructure can provide secure

and compliant access to alternative

investment opportunities, enhancing

efficiency and the overall investor

experience across private markets.

DeFi technology enables transactions

without traditional intermediaries such

as banks, offering new avenues for

capital deployment. KAIO’s platform

has already attracted over $200 million

in on-chain institutional assets, showcasing

strong investor confidence.“The

partnership reflects Mubadala Capital’s

billion assets under management, but

Albadr noted to see this share double

over the next five to ten years. While

North America presently accounts for

40% of the portfolio, the Asia pivot

could increase assets from $43 billion

to approximately $86 billion. Growth

will be driven through a multi-strategy

approach, and the endowment model

via the Abu Dhabi Investment Council,

with private equity playing a key role,

in late-stage and buyout investments.

Mubadala Capital Investigates Digital Channels

for Private Market Investments

continued commitment to broadening

access to institutional investment strategies

through secure and innovative

financial infrastructure,” said Fatima

Al Noaimi and Max Franzetti, Co-Heads

of Mubadala Capital Solutions.


Abu Dhabi’s Eshraq to Allocate $82M from Land Sale for Growth Plans

Eshraq Investments has signed a

sales agreement with A9 Downtown

Holding Company to sell a

land plot in Sas Al Nakhl, Abu Dhabi,

aiming to monetise its land assets. The

transaction is valued at 300 million

UAE dirhams ($81.69 million), with A9

Downtown set to pay in instalments over

24 months, Eshraq said in a statement

to the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange.

The company highlighted that the sale

Dar Global Awards

Contract for Enabling

Works at Dubai’s

Trump Tower

London-listed Dar Global has appointed

Dubai-based Edrafor Emirates

to carry out the enabling works for the

$1 billion Trump International Hotel

& Tower along Sheikh Zayed Road.

The contract covers site preparation,

including ground engineering, deep

enabling systems, and logistical mobilisation

to ready the location for fullscale

construction, the developer said

in a statement. Although Dar Global

did not disclose the contract value

or timeline, a Reuters report from 29

April 2025 cited CEO Ziad El-Chaar

confirming the project’s Gross Development

Value (GDV) at $1 billion. The

80-storey, 574-unit tower will rise 350

metres and feature Dubai’s highest

outdoor pool, alongside two penthouses

modelled after New York’s Trump

Tower on Fifth Avenue. The project

is expected to be completed between

2030 and 2031.

underscores strong investor and developer

interest in prime Abu Dhabi real

estate, especially in strategic locations.

This evolution promises to reshape

urban mobility and create new economic

opportunities across aviation

and related service sectors, driving

sustainable growth and enhancing the

quality of life for residents and visitors

alike, while positioning the region as

a global hub for innovation.

DIFC Hits 100+ Hedge Fund Managers Milestone

Dubai International Financial Centre

(DIFC) has solidified its position

as a leading global financial hub,

joining the ranks of the world’s top five

hedge fund centres. The milestone reflects

the emirate’s growing appeal to

fund managers, investors, and financial

service providers seeking a stable,

well-regulated environment. DIFC’s

robust legal framework, coupled with

investor-friendly policies and advanced

infrastructure, has encouraged both

The UAE has issued a new Federal

Decree-Law amending key provisions

of the 2022 corporate tax

law, providing clearer mechanisms for

settling corporate tax obligations and

claiming refunds for unutilised credits.

The amendment outlines a structured

process for using available tax credits

and incentives before settling remaining

liabilities, prioritising withholding tax

and foreign tax credits. Importantly,

businesses can now claim payments

for unutilised tax credits arising from

approved incentives or reliefs, subject

to defined conditions and procedures.

The Federal Tax Authority will oversee

and disburse these claims, potentially

regional and international hedge funds

to establish a presence. The centre now

hosts over 100 hedge fund managers,

signalling confidence in Dubai’s strategic

location and its ability to connect

capital markets across the Middle East,

Africa, and Asia. This growth aligns with

the UAE’s broader financial strategy to

diversify its economy and attract international

investment, positioning DIFC as

a dynamic, competitive hub in the global

asset management landscape.

UAE Streamlines Corporate Tax Rules,

Introduces Refunds for Unused Credits

withholding amounts from tax revenues

to fund legitimate refunds. Effective immediately,

the decree strengthens fiscal

governance offering companies greater

flexibility in managing tax liabilities and

optimising the use of available benefits.


Business


Modern business Dubai and Abu Dhabi reflecting investment opportunities, and economic growth.

How Dubai and Abu

Dhabi Became the

Epicentre for Global

Growth

Dubai and Abu Dhabi are Driving the UAE’s

Emergence as a Strategic Hub for Global

Business and Investment.

The United Arab Emirates has rapidly

emerged as a leading global business and

investment hub, with Dubai and Abu Dhabi

at the forefront of this transformation.

Over recent years, both cities have leveraged

strategic policies, advanced infrastructure,

and regulatory reforms to

attract multinational corporations, and

entrepreneurs from around the world.

Economic diversification, with a growing

focus on finance, tourism, trade, technology,

and real estate, has strengthened

resilience and reduced reliance on oil revenues.

Pro-business initiatives, including

free zones, and streamlined procedures,

have created a conducive environment for

growth. The UAE’s forward-looking approach

positions it as a dynamic centre for

international commerce and innovation.


The United Arab Emirates has

emerged as one of the world’s

leading business and investment

hubs, with Dubai and Abu Dhabi at the

forefront of this transformation. Over

the past decade, both cities have leveraged

strategic policies, infrastructure

development and regulatory reforms

to attract global capital, multinational

corporations, and entrepreneurial

ventures. Non-oil sectors, including

finance, real estate, tourism, trade,

technology and logistics, have grown

rapidly, contributing to a more diversified

and resilient economy. Pro-business

initiatives, such as free zones, investor

visas and streamlined business procedures,

have further enhanced the

UAE’s appeal. The nation’s GDP is

projected to expand strongly in 2025,

demonstrating the effectiveness of

its long-term economic strategy and

commitment to sustainable growth.

Economic Growth

Dubai’s economy continues to show

strong momentum, expanding by over

four per cent in the first half of 2025.

Growth has been broad-based, with

real estate, trade, tourism, finance

and services driving performance

across the emirate. Dubai is actively

implementing its “D33” economic

strategy, which aims to double the

economy’s size over the next decade

while reinforcing its position among the

world’s leading global cities. Tourism

and property remain central to this

growth, attracting millions of international

visitors annually. These sectors

support the wider economy, boosting

hospitality, retail and related industries,

and underpinning Dubai’s status as a

dynamic, diversified economic hub.

Abu Dhabi is rapidly establishing itself

as a key destination for institutional

capital and multinational corporations

seeking regional access to financial and

investment opportunities. The emirate’s

advanced regulatory frameworks, investor-friendly

free zones and strategic

incentives make it an attractive base for

global businesses looking to expand in

the Middle East. Over the years, Abu

Dhabi has strengthened its reputation as

a centre for finance, energy, technology

and innovation, offering a stable and

well-structured environment for both

established companies and emerging

enterprises. This focus on diversification

and infrastructure development

has positioned the capital as a pivotal

hub for economic growth and global

investment.

Key Drivers of UAE Growth Include:

Economic diversification reducing

reliance on oil, with non-oil sectors

contributing over seventy per cent

of GDP:

● Strategic geographic location connecting

Asia, Africa and Europe

● Business-friendly regulations and

free zones attracting global talent

and capital

● Growth of start-ups and SMEs

supported by innovation hubs and

venture-capital networks

● Expansion of non-oil trade and

increasing exports and re-exports

A Magnet for Investment and

Innovation

Start-ups and SMEs are flourishing in

Today the UAE continues to

advance its ambitions of

economic diversification

alongside digital

transformation, evolving

into a knowledge‐ and

innovation‐based

economy underpinned by

sustainable growth.”

H.E. Dr Thani Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of

State for Foreign Trade

this supportive environment. Innovation

hubs in Dubai and Abu Dhabi provide

access to funding, co-working spaces

and venture-capital networks, enabling

entrepreneurial growth. Investments in

regional start-ups have reached record

levels, creating new jobs and driving

technological innovation.

Global firms continue to expand

their regional headquarters in the

Emirates. Stable governance, advanced

infrastructure and liberal corporate

frameworks make Dubai and Abu

Dhabi attractive bases for companies

targeting markets across the Middle

East, Africa and South Asia.

The UAE has demonstrated resilience

against global economic challenges,

maintaining low inflation, strong

banking-sector liquidity and rising

consumer confidence. Both cities are

evolving into centres where global

commerce, investment and innovation

converge, offering a diversified economy,

pro-business policies, world-class

infrastructure and connectivity to

multiple growth markets.

Key Investment and Innovation

Highlights Include:

●

●

●

●

●

Dubai focusing on tourism, trade

and finance to strengthen its global

city status

Abu Dhabi building prominence

in finance, energy and innovation

Expansion of infrastructure and

digital transformation supporting

business growth

Strategic initiatives in logistics,

real estate and technology sectors

Creation of an ecosystem attractive

to investors, entrepreneurs and

global companies

Dubai and Abu Dhabi have firmly established

themselves as global hubs for

business, investment, and innovation.

Through strategic policies, economic

diversification, and world-class infrastructure,

the Emirates continue to

attract international talent and capital.

Their focus on sectors such as finance,

tourism and trade ensures sustainable

growth against global economic challenges.

By fostering a supportive and

forward-looking business environment,

the UAE remains a model for regional

development, positioning both cities

as enduring epicentres of economic

opportunity and global connectivity.


Interview

DR. YASAR JARRAR

Managing Partner, Gov Campus

| Founding Partner, The

Posterity Institute | Professor,

Hult International Business

School (UAE/USA)

The Fourth Pole: How the UAE Is

Anchoring the World’s Next Great

Economic Region

The global economic landscape is undergoing a quiet yet profound transformation. Beyond the familiar centres of power in

Washington, Brussels, and Beijing, a new “fourth pole” is emerging, driven by fast-growing emerging markets, youthful demographics,

and compounding capital. At the heart of this shift is the United Arab Emirates, leveraging trade, connectivity, financial

clout, and technological infrastructure to position itself as a unique global hub. This article examines how the UAE is redefining

its role in the world economy, not just as a participant, but as a strategic enabler of growth, investment, and innovation.


There’s a moment in every major

economic transformation when the

map of global commerce is fundamentally

redrawn. We are in one of those

moments now. The economic world today

is changing shape, not in the dramatic,

headline-grabbing way of a single crisis

or summit, but in the slow, structural way

that rewires supply chains, rebalances

economic power, reroutes capital, and

redefines what “global” actually means.

While most observers focus on familiar

poles, Washington, Brussels, and Beijing,

the real story of the next decade may be

written in a fourth pole. This new axis is

emerging in a connected arc of emerging

markets, where growth, demographics,

and capital are compounding at speed.

West Asia anchors this momentum, with

the GCC controlling over $5 trillion in

According to the IMF’s

2025 outlook, emerging

markets and developing

economies are growing

at around 3.7%, nearly

three times the 1.4%

forecast for advanced

economies.”

sovereign wealth assets and posting nonoil

GDP growth above 4% annually. India,

the world’s most populous nation at 1.43

billion, is expected to contribute more than

16% of global GDP growth through 2028,

driven by a middle class of 400 million set

to double by 2030. Africa completes the

picture: by 2050, it will house 2.5 billion

people, over 60% under 25, already displaying

high entrepreneurship rates, rapid

urbanisation, and deep mobile adoption,

forming a vast, youthful, fast-growing economic

system that increasingly shapes

global demand, trade, and innovation.

At the centre of this fourth pole is the

UAE, where trade routes, capital pools,

talent flows, and increasingly data and

compute, concentrate and compound.

Trade offers the first clear signal of this

rise. That year, the UAE ranked 11th globally

in merchandise exports and 13th in

services exports, remarkable positioning

for a country smaller in population than

many global cities.

This is not transit trade in the old

In 2024, the UAE’s total

foreign trade reached

AED 5.23 trillion ($1.42

trillion), a 49% increase

since 2021.”

sense; it is trade architecture. On the

global digital services ledger, the UAE

reached $52 billion in 2024, ranking 21st

worldwide, and growing rapidly relative

to its size. The implication is clear: this is

a state evolving into a serious exporter of

high-value, digitizable economic activity.

What distinguishes a “platform nation”

from a normal trade hub is how its advantages

stack. Ports and airports matter

not for impressiveness, but for network

gravity. Jebel Ali Port handled 15.5 million

TEUs in 2024, its highest throughput

since 2015, with breakbulk cargo rising

strongly year-on-year, evidence that the

UAE is not merely participating in trade

but absorbing it as global logistics evolve.

Dubai International Airport welcomed

92.3 million passengers in 2024, marking

a decade of leading global rankings as

the world’s busiest international airport.

Airlines also serve as economic infrastructure.

The Emirates Group reported

record performance in 2024–25, including

AED 22.7 billion ($6.2 billion) in profits,

reinforcing Dubai’s role as a premium

global connector amid volatile aviation

markets. These figures express a broader

proposition: in a world of longer, more

complex, and increasingly politicised

trade routes, the most valuable asset is

often the interface that remains efficient,

reliable, and open.

Trade and connectivity are only part

of the UAE story. Equally important is

scale-up economics, the ability to turn a

successful platform into a compounding

national operating model. Real GDP for

2024 reached AED 1.776 trillion, with nonoil

sectors contributing 75.5% and growing

around 5%. This shifts the UAE from a

hydrocarbon economy to a structurally

influential, trade-and-services-heavy economy,

able to leverage multiple growth

frontiers.

Trade diplomacy drives this transformation.

The UAE has initiated 27 CEPA

discussions, with multiple agreements

already in force, aiming for preferential

access across high-growth corridors rather

than relying on slow multilateralism.

Financial influence further amplifies the

UAE’s global role. According to the 2025

Global SWF mid-year report, the UAE

ranks third globally in total sovereign

wealth and public pension assets ($2.49

trillion), trailing only the US and China,

and far ahead of Japan and Singapore.

Anchored by ADIA, which manages over

The India-UAE CEPA

exemplifies this

strategy: bilateral

merchandise trade

nearly doubled from

$43.3 billion in FY

2020–21 to $83.7 billion

in 2023–24 after the

agreement entered into

force in 2022.”

$1 trillion, alongside Mubadala, ADQ, and

others, these funds are dynamic engines

of investment, deploying capital into

technology, infrastructure, AI, logistics,

and emerging markets, reshaping global

capital flows.

The UAE is also emerging as a key AI

hub. MGX, launched in 2024, G42 and

Core42, Khazna’s hyperscale data centres,

partnerships with Microsoft, OpenAI,

Cerebras, and Nvidia, and integration with

abundant, low-cost energy from ADNOC

and Masdar, reflect a strategic focus on

foundational AI infrastructure. This

approach targets energy, compute, and

deployment capacity, rather than isolated

applications, a recognition that controlling

infrastructure embeds the UAE in the

global AI value chain.

Combined, these factors present a coherent

picture. The UAE is not replicating

Silicon Valley, Shenzhen, or Frankfurt.

Instead, it is becoming the interface where

multiple economic systems connect efficiently:

a growth hub, scale-up nation,

trade champion, “capital of capital,” and

emerging AI power. In the coming decade,

influence will belong to those who enable

others; the UAE is betting on this, and

the data suggests the strategy is already

paying off.


Global News

UAE and Cyprus Strengthen Trade with New Business Council Plans

Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi,

Minister of State for Foreign

Trade, led a senior delegation

of government and private sector

representatives on an official visit

to the Republic of Cyprus, aimed at

strengthening bilateral trade and investment

cooperation. The visit took

place in the presence of Mohammed

Saif Al Shehhi, UAE Ambassador to

the Republic of Cyprus. During the

visit, Al Zeyoudi met President Nikos

Christodoulides and participated in

the UAE–Cyprus Business Roundtable,

where he highlighted the strong

complementarities between the two

economies and the significant scope

for collaboration in sectors including

oil and gas, renewable energy, logistics,

real estate, technology and artificial

intelligence. The two sides also signed a

Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)

to establish the UAE–Cyprus Business

Council. The Council is designed to

enhance private sector engagement

across a wide range of priority economic

sectors, fostering an ecosystem

for growth and innovation.

PRYPCO Secures Sharia-Certified Fractional Real

Estate

PRYPCO has secured Sharia

certification for its fractional

ownership platforms, PRYPCO

Mint and PRYPCO Blocks. Moreover,

the certification marks a milestone

for fractional real estate investment

in the UAE’s evolving financial landscape.

The approval was granted by the

Shariyah Review Bureau. Therefore, it

confirms that the platforms’ investment

structures align with Islamic finance

principles. Additionally, the certification

reinforces a focus on ethical,

compliant, and transparent financial

innovation. The certification validates a

framework that allows investors to earn

rental income and potential capital appreciation

through regulated fractional

ownership. As a result, investors can

participate in property markets while

adhering to Sharia requirements.

Under the agreement, Shariyah Review

Bureau will also provide ongoing

Sharia audits, continuous compliance

monitoring will apply as PRYPCO Mint

and PRYPCO Blocks expand and evolve.

Sharjah and Kurdistan Chambers Forge Stronger

Ties

The Sharjah Chamber of Commerce

and Industry (SCCI) has hosted a

high-level business meeting with

a senior delegation from the Kurdistan

Federation of Chambers of Commerce

and Industry (K-FCCI), alongside representatives

from the Federation of

the UAE Chambers of Commerce and

Industry. The discussions aimed to expand

economic cooperation and reinforce

investment ties between the UAE and

the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, while also

exploring new frameworks to advance

joint initiatives and strategic partnerships.

The meeting was held during an official

reception chaired by Abdallah Sultan Al

Owais, Vice Chairman of the Federation

of UAE Chambers and Chairman of SCCI.

Senior Emirati officials, including Humaid

Mohammed bin Salem, Secretary-General

of the Federation of UAE Chambers, and

Mohammed Ahmed Amin Al Awadi, Director-General

of SCCI, were in attendance.

The event underscored the commitment

to fostering stronger business ties and

promoting economic growth.

UAE, Ireland Launch

Joint Committee to

Boost Trade, Investment

The UAE hosted the inaugural meeting

of the Joint Economic Committee

(JEC), welcoming Peter Burke TD,

Ireland’s Minister of Enterprise, Trade,

and Employment. The session marked

an important step forward, as both nations

continue strengthening economic

cooperation. It brought together senior

officials, private-sector leaders, and business

representatives to explore shared

opportunities across high-potential sectors.

During his opening remarks, Saeed Al

Hajeri underscored the role of the JEC

in driving long-term collaboration. He

highlighted areas such as technology, renewable

energy, agribusiness, life sciences,

and sustainable infrastructure. As he

noted, “The Joint Economic Committee

demonstrates our shared commitment

to enhance collaboration between our

nations and provides a crucial opportunity

to further strengthen our economic

partnership.”


Nasdaq Dubai

Welcomes $500M Bond

Listing by Bank of China

A

USD 500 million floating-rate

bond has been listed under a

USD 40 billion Medium Term

Note Programme, marking one of the

narrowest issuance spreads achieved

by a Chinese bank for a three-year

maturity. Moreover, the listing reflects

strong recognition of the issuer’s

credit quality and its global funding

strategy. With this addition, the total

outstanding value of the institution’s

debt instruments on the exchange has

reached about USD 1.9 billion. To commemorate

the listing, Consul General

of China in Dubai Ou Boqian rang the

market-opening bell. During the ceremony,

Ou Boqian emphasised: “The

bond issuance by Bank of China not

only reflects the influence of Chinese

institutions in the international capital

markets but also further underscores

Dubai’s status as an international

financial centre in the Middle East.”

Dubai Chamber Of Commerce Unveils New Cyprus

Business Council

Dubai has introduced the Cyprus

Business Council to strengthen

cooperation between the two

business communities and to expand

trade and investment opportunities. The

move further reinforces the emirate’s

role as a global hub, since non-oil trade

between both markets reached AED588

million in 2024. Moreover, the number

of Cypriot companies active in the city

continues to rise, as 612 are currently

registered, including 71 that joined

during the first nine months of 2025.

Because of this growing presence, the

new council arrives at a pivotal time.

The council held its first Annual General

Meeting with notable participation from

senior officials and business leaders.

Although the gathering marked its

official launch, it also showcased the

shared commitment to deeper economic

engagement.

Saudi Cenomi Retail secures USD 421M Term Loan

from Emirates NBD

Fawaz Abdulaziz Alhokair Co.

(Cenomi Retail) has entered

into term loan agreements worth

SAR1.58 billion (USD421 million) with

Emirates NBD Saudi Arabia, matching

the amount drawn under a credit

facility signed in September, which

totalled SAR1.6 billion. The company

said the arrangement includes the issuance

of two promissory notes valued

at SAR1.68 billion, while Al Futtaim

Private Company LLC will provide a

corporate guarantee covering SAR1.58

billion in return for an agreed fee.

The financing carries a three-year

maturity, with an option to extend

for a further two years, subject to the

bank’s approval. Cenomi Retail said

the proceeds will be used to refinance

existing short-term borrowings, supporting

balance sheet optimisation. Al

Futtaim Private is an affiliate of Al-Futtaim

Retail Company, the UAE-based

group that acquired a 49.95% stake in

Cenomi Retail in a transaction valued

at over SAR2.5 billion.

Saudi Purity for Info

Tech Extends USD

2.66M Financing

Saudi Arabia’s Purity for Information

Technology Co has renewed

a Shariah-compliant banking

facility valued at SAR10 million

(USD2.66 million) with Gulf International

Bank, reinforcing its short- to

medium-term funding position. The

renewed credit line will remain in

place until November 27, 2026, providing

the company with continued

access to liquidity to meet working

capital requirements, support day-today

operational commitments, and

finance the execution of ongoing and

planned projects. The facility is expected

to enhance financial flexibility

as the company navigates a challenging

operating environment for the IT

services sector. In its latest financial

results, Purity reported a net profit

of SAR1.53 million for the fiscal year

ended June 30, 2025. This represents

a decline of more than 21% compared

with the previous year, reflecting pressure

on margins and subdued earnings

performance during the period.


Cover Story

COVER

STORY


Patrick Ngan

Chief Investment Officer

Zeta Network Group


Cover Story

Patrick Ngan has spent over two decades moving between corporate finance finance and and the digital the digital asset asset world. world. His career His

career spans investment spans investment banking banking roles at UBS, roles ABN at UBS, AMRO, ABN and AMRO, Huatai and International, Huatai International, where he advised where on he IPOs advised and

on M&A IPOs transactions and M&A across deals across Asia and Asia the and United the States. United As States. an entrepreneur, As an entrepreneur, he co-founded he co-founded Nova Vision Nova Acquisition Vision

Acquisition Corp, led its Corp Nasdaq and IPO, led its and Nasdaq subsequently IPO, along completed with Alchemy a successful Pay, a de-SPAC cryptocurrency transaction. payment He is platform also a co-founder now listed of

on Alchemy Coinbase Pay, and a cryptocurrency Binance, as well payment as QFPay platform International. listed Coinbase and Binance.

Today, as Chief Investment Officer of Zeta Network Group, Ngan oversees global investment strategy and institutional

Today, digital-asset as Chief Investment treasury operations, Officer of Zeta with Network a focus Group, on bringing Patrick institutional-grade oversees global investment governance, strategy compliance, and institutional

management digital-asset to treasury the digital operations, asset space. with In a focus this exclusive on governance, interview, compliance, Patrick discusses and risk management. how institutions In this should inter-

and

risk

approach view, he discusses digital assets, how institutions the evolution should of Bitcoin approach as a digital treasury assets, instrument, the evolution and why of Bitcoin governance, as a treasury not speculation, instrument,

should and why drive governance institutional rather adoption. than speculation Drawing should on his drive experience adoption, across drawing Hong experience Kong, New across York, Hong Singapore, Kong, and New

Tokyo, York, Singapore, he offers a and measured Tokyo. perspective on what distinguishes experimentation from operational integration.

Exclusive Interview with FinanceWorld

Q: You’ve had a career spanning IPOs,

fintech platform development, and

institutional digital-asset strategy.

How do you approach investment

strategy and risk management in

today’s complex market environment?

Across different stages of my career,

the discipline around capital has been

consistent.

Before thinking about

returns, I always start

by being clear about

what capital is meant to

do.”

Is it there to preserve liquidity, to support

growth, or provide resilience through

different market cycles?

What makes the current environment

more demanding is not volatility on its

own, but the number of forces moving at

the same time. Geopolitics, interest-rate

cycles, liquidity conditions, and regulation

are all interacting. In that context, structure

and governance matter far more than

tactical positioning. This applies whether

capital is deployed in traditional instruments,

digital assets, or increasingly in

tokenised real-world assets that bring

familiar risk profiles onto more efficient

infrastructure.

Q: Global markets are navigating

persistent volatility driven by geopolitics,

rates, and liquidity cycles.

From your perspective, how should

institutions think about volatility to-


day, as a risk to minimise or a source

of opportunity to allocate around?

For institutions, volatility is something

to design around rather than react to. In

every major cycle I have experienced, the

organisations that navigated periods of

stress most effectively were those with

clear liquidity planning and diversified

exposure, rather than those focused on

chasing incremental yield.

When treasury portfolios are built in

layers, with highly liquid instruments for

immediate needs, stabilising assets for

predictability, and longer-duration allocations

for return, volatility becomes far

more manageable. This is also where

real-world asset tokenisation plays an

important role. By bringing traditional

stabilising instruments onto more efficient

digital infrastructure, institutions

can reduce reliance on price-driven assets

and lower overall balance-sheet volatility.

Q: Bitcoin is often framed as volatile,

yet correlations shift across market

cycles. How do you assess Bitcoin’s

role in a diversified institutional

portfolio relative to equities, fixed

income, and alternatives?

Bitcoin needs to be assessed in context.

Like any asset, its role depends on portfolio

objectives, governance standards,

and position sizing. What institutions

increasingly recognise is that Bitcoin’s

correlations are not fixed across market

cycles. When managed thoughtfully, that

variability can contribute to diversification

rather than detract from it.

From a treasury perspective, Bitcoin

works best as a highly liquid and transparent

asset rather than a speculative

position. It trades at meaningful scale,

with daily spot volumes often exceeding

US$20 billion, which matters for institutions

that prioritise flexibility and access.

In practice, Bitcoin is rarely the end

point of a treasury strategy. More often,

it serves as an entry point into a broader

digital-treasury framework, one that is

later balanced with tokenised real-world

assets to stabilise returns and manage

duration more effectively.

Q: Do you see digital assets evolving

more as a hedge, a growth asset, or a

new form of financial infrastructure

within institutional portfolios?

Digital assets are increasingly being understood

as financial infrastructure rather

than a single asset category. Early adoption

was often framed around growth or

hedging narratives.

The more structural

shift is about how

tokenisation,

programmability,

and faster settlement

change the way capital

behaves on a balance

sheet.”

This is particularly evident in real-world

asset tokenisation. Instruments such

as money-market funds, short-duration

bonds, and receivables can now be represented

and managed more efficiently.

Estimates from institutions like Boston

Consulting Group suggest that tokenised

real-world assets could reach around

US$16 trillion globally by 2030, largely

because they modernise how familiar

financial products operate rather than

introducing new economic risk.

Q: For institutions exploring digital

assets for the first time, what portfolio

allocation frameworks make sense

today: strategic allocation, tactical

exposure, or treasury-driven positioning?

For most institutions, a treasury-led

approach is the most sensible starting

point. That means integrating digital assets

into liquidity and capital management

discussions, rather than treating them

as a standalone investment theme.

Governance, custody, accounting, and

reporting frameworks should be established

first, with allocation size following

naturally. Real-world asset tokenisation

fits well into this progression because

it allows institutions to adopt digital infrastructure

while maintaining exposure

to familiar asset classes. In doing so, it

bridges traditional treasury practice with

digital execution and supports incremental,

responsible adoption.

Tokenisation is

effective when it

strengthens these

foundations rather than

bypassing them.”

Q: From your experience, what are

the most common mistakes institutions

make when evaluating digital

assets? Is it over-focusing on price,

underestimating operational risk,

or misunderstanding custody and

governance?

The most common challenge I see is

an overemphasis on price, often at the

expense of operational considerations.

Custody arrangements, governance

structures, accounting treatment, and

regulatory alignment are what ultimately

determine whether a digital-asset strategy

can be sustained over time.

Institutions that approach digital assets

in isolation tend to face greater volatility

and perception risk. By contrast, those

that integrate Bitcoin alongside tokenised

real-world assets typically build more balanced

treasury structures. The inclusion

of predictable, yield-bearing, and familiar

asset types reduces reliance on market

appreciation alone and supports a more

resilient and defensible treasury strategy.

Q: Zeta positions itself as a bridge

between traditional capital markets

and decentralised finance. What does

“institutional-grade digital finance”

truly mean in practice, and where do

most crypto-native firms fall short

today?


Cover Story

Institutional-grade digital finance is ultimately

defined by governance rather

than technology. It requires regulated

custody, transparent reporting, clear

accountability, and alignment with established

capital-market standards. These

are non-negotiable requirements for institutions

operating under public-market

scrutiny.

Real-world asset tokenisation is a

practical example of how digital finance

can improve efficiency while preserving

institutional discipline. It allows innovation

to take place within frameworks

that boards, auditors, and regulators already

understand, which is where many

crypto-native models have historically

struggled to bridge the gap.

Q: Zeta’s US$231 million private placement

funded in Bitcoin or SolvBTC

marks a significant treasury decision.

What strategic gap does Bitcoin fill

that traditional treasury instruments

cannot?

Bitcoin adds a globally liquid and highly

transparent instrument into the treasury

toolkit. It complements traditional assets

by providing diversification and operational

flexibility that is difficult to replicate

with conventional instruments.

More importantly, Bitcoin anchors

a broader digital-treasury strategy. It

provides liquidity and optionality, while

tokenised real-world assets contribute

yield stability and duration control. When

combined, these elements create a more

resilient balance-sheet structure than any

single asset could on its own, which is

particularly important for listed companies

operating under public-market scrutiny.

Q: With AI, blockchain, and capital

markets converging, where do you

see the next major efficiency breakthrough

in institutional finance?

The most meaningful efficiency gains I

see will come from automation and verification

rather than the creation of new

asset types.

AI is increasingly used to enhance

monitoring, risk assessment, and decision

support, while blockchain improves

settlement speed, reconciliation, and

transparency across financial operations.”


Real-world asset tokenisation sits at the

intersection of these trends. It simplifies

reporting, reduces settlement friction, and

improves visibility across capital flows

in near real time. These advantages are

particularly relevant in regions such as the

UAE, where cross-border capital movement

is a core feature of institutional

finance and operational efficiency has a

direct impact on treasury performance.

Q: Having worked across Hong Kong,

New York, Singapore, and Tokyo, how

do regional attitudes toward digital

finance differ, and where do you see

the next institutional growth wave

coming from?

Regional differences largely reflect regulatory

culture and market structure. The

US benefits from depth, liquidity, and an

ability to scale quickly once frameworks

are clear. Many Asian financial centres, by

contrast, place greater emphasis on stability,

sequencing, and measured adoption,

often prioritising resilience over speed.

What is increasingly notable is the convergence

between Asia and the Middle

East. Both regions place strong emphasis

on governance, regulatory clarity, and

capital efficiency. This shared mindset

has made areas such as real-world asset

tokenisation a natural point of alignment,

as it allows innovation to be introduced

within frameworks institutions already

understand. As a result, I see the next

wave of institutional growth emerging

from corridors that connect Asia and the

Middle East, rather than from any single

market in isolation.

Q: The UAE has moved quickly to

establish regulatory frameworks for

virtual assets through bodies like

VARA and ADGM. How important is

this proactive approach in attracting

institutional capital and public-market

participation?

It is critically important, and more than

that, it is strategic.

Frameworks developed through VARA

and ADGM have given institutions something

they value deeply, clarity without

rigidity. Rules around custody, reporting,

and governance are clearly defined, while

still allowing innovation to develop in

a responsible and controlled way. This

aligns closely with what institutional

capital looks for, a point often reflected

in the work of global bodies such as the

BIS and the IMF, where predictability

and transparency are fundamental to

participation.

This clarity becomes even more important

in areas such as real-world asset

tokenisation. Banks, asset managers, and

listed companies need confidence before

committing capital at scale, particularly

when new infrastructure intersects with

public-market accountability. In that sense,

the UAE is not simply reacting to global

trends. It recognised the opportunity

early and acted decisively to shape an

environment where institutional capital

can engage with confidence.

Q: What role do you see the UAE

playing in shaping Bitcoin treasury

strategies for corporates across the

Middle East, Africa, and South Asia?

The UAE is increasingly emerging as a

bridge rather than simply a regional hub.

Its regulatory clarity, capital-market

sophistication, and openness to innovation

make it a natural convergence point for

institutions from the Middle East, Africa,

Southeast and North Asia. Many corporates

across these regions face similar

treasury realities, including cross-border

operations, currency exposure, liquidity

management, and the need to deploy

capital efficiently and responsibly.

The UAE offers a

neutral, well-regulated

environment where

these strategies can be

developed, tested, and

refined.”

What makes the UAE particularly distinctive

is its ability to connect different

financial cultures. Southeast Asia brings

execution and innovation, North Asia contributes

scale and capital depth, while the

UAE provides regulatory certainty and

international connectivity. In this way, the

UAE is shaping not only how Bitcoin is

incorporated into corporate treasuries,

but also how those strategies are aligned

and harmonised across regions.

As digital-asset treasury models mature

and expand to include tokenised

real-world assets, this bridging role will

become even more important. The UAE

is well positioned to serve as the platform

where regional best practices converge

before scaling globally.

Q: Looking ahead, do you believe the

UAE can emerge as a global hub for

regulated digital-asset infrastructure,

not just trading, and what key ingredients

are still needed to make that

vision a reality?

Yes, and I believe this is already happening.

The next phase of digital-asset development

is not defined by trading activity

alone. It is defined by infrastructure.

Custody, accounting

expertise, compliance

frameworks, legal

clarity, and strong

professional

services are what

ultimately determine

whether institutional

adoption can scale

in a sustainable and

credible way.”

The UAE has made meaningful progress

across these areas. As tokenised

real-world assets become more prevalent,

this depth will matter even more.

Institutions need environments where

innovation is supported end-to-end, from

issuance and custody through to reporting,

audit, and regulatory oversight.

If the UAE continues to build ecosystem

depth alongside regulation, it is well

positioned to be one of the few global

centres where regulated digital-asset

infrastructure operates at true institutional

scale.

Q: Where do you see institutional

digital finance heading over the next

five years, and what role will Bitcoin-centric

platforms play in shaping

that future?

Over the next five years, institutional digital

finance will move from experimentation

to normalisation. The discussion will shift

away from whether digital assets belong

on balance sheets and toward how they

are structured, governed, and optimised

as part of broader capital strategies.

At the same time, real-world asset tokenisation

will meaningfully expand the


Cover Story

opportunity set, allowing treasuries to

diversify, reduce volatility, and manage

duration in more familiar and predictable

ways.

From a regional perspective, the UAE

and Southeast Asia are likely to play a

crucial role, if not lead the next wave of

adoption. Both regions combine strong

capital markets, forward-thinking regulators,

and a pragmatic approach to

innovation. They are less constrained

by legacy systems and more focused

on execution.

As a result, many of the most practical,

institution-ready models for digital-asset

treasury management and real-world asset

tokenisation are likely to emerge from

these regions before being adopted more

broadly elsewhere.

Bitcoin will continue to play an important role by

anchoring liquidity and interoperability across

digital markets.”

Q: If you were advising today’s CIOs

or CFOs on preparing for a digital-asset-integrated

balance sheet, what is

the single most important principle

they should adopt now?

Start with governance. Once custody,

compliance, accounting, and reporting

frameworks are clearly established, digital

assets can be integrated in a responsible

and sustainable way.

Combining Bitcoin with tokenised real-world

assets allows treasuries to reduce

volatility, improve predictability, and scale

digital-asset strategies in a manner that

aligns naturally with institutional finance

and public-market expectations.



Global


Economic diversification and advanced technology continue to accelerate the UAE’s position as a global growth hub.

Global Outlook 2026:

How Capital, Trade, and

Innovation Are Shifting

The UAE Enters 2026 with Stronger Capital

Flows, Evolving Trade Networks and Rapid

Innovation Shaping its Economic Future.

The UAE is entering 2026 with renewed

economic momentum, supported by strong

non-oil growth, expanding global partnerships

and a national commitment to

technological innovation. Policymakers are

advancing ambitious reforms to enhance

competitiveness, attract long-term investment

and strengthen the country’s role as

a strategic hub connecting major markets

across Asia, Africa and Europe. Major

developments in trade, capital flows, and

digital infrastructure continue to redefine

the nation’s economic landscape. As new

agreements and innovation-driven initiatives

take shape, the UAE is positioning

itself for a future of sustained, resilient,

and globally integrated growth, with a

focus on fostering strategic partnerships

and attracting cutting-edge talent.


The UAE’s economic trajectory

heading into 2026 reflects a

decisive shift towards a more

sophisticated, innovation-powered

growth model. The latest economic

projections from regional and international

institutions indicate that the

Emirates will sustain non-oil GDP

expansion in the 4%–5% range, supported

by strong domestic demand,

large-scale investment programmes

and the accelerated development of

priority sectors such as advanced

technology, renewable energy, logistics

and financial services. The momentum

has been bolstered by the continued

success of structural reforms under the

UAE’s economic diversification agenda,

including updates to the commercial

companies law, measures enhancing

foreign ownership, and incentives

designed to attract long-term international

capital.

Capital flows into the country have

strengthened, with the UAE remaining

the Arab world’s leading destination for

foreign direct investment. According

to the most recent figures released

for 2024–2025, FDI inflows surpassed

previous records, driven by investments

in manufacturing, clean energy, data

infrastructure and digital services. Abu

Dhabi’s investment vehicles, including

ADQ and Mubadala, alongside Dubai’s

major conglomerates, have continued

acquiring technology-focused assets

globally, reinforcing the country’s

outward investment footprint. At the

same time, the federal government’s

ambition to double national FDI by

2031 is advancing through competitive

incentives offered across free

zones, streamlined licensing, and new

economic agreements targeting Asia,

Africa and Europe.

Trade activity has also undergone

structural evolution. The UAE’s Comprehensive

Economic Partnership

Agreements (CEPAs) have advanced

significantly in the past two years, with

new deals operational with Türkiye,

Indonesia, Georgia and Cambodia, and

imminent expansions involving major

economies in South America and Africa.

These agreements are reshaping

the nation’s external trade map by

lowering tariffs, simplifying customs

procedures and opening new supply-chain

channels. Recent data from

2024 shows that non-oil foreign trade

crossed USD 700 billion, supported

by increased re-export activity and

higher demand for industrial goods,

digital equipment and sustainable

technologies. Logistics enhancements,

particularly the expansion of Khalifa

Port, Jebel Ali’s digitisation initiatives,

and Abu Dhabi’s new air cargo corridors,

are transforming the UAE into a

real-time, high-efficiency gateway for

global commerce.

Innovation, Energy Transition and

Strategic Sectors

Innovation remains at the centre of the

UAE’s competitive strategy heading into

2026. Over the past year, the government

and major investment entities have

committed billions of dollars to build

advanced computing capacity, develop

artificial intelligence research hubs

and expand hyperscale data centres

We are fully committed to

economic diversification,

innovation, and global

competitiveness. From

smart infrastructure and

AI to sustainable finance

and forward-looking

education, we are building

the pillars of future

growth.”

H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri,

UAE Minister of Economy and Tourism

across Abu Dhabi and Dubai. The

UAE’s AI Office and national AI strategy

have accelerated their timelines, with

new partnerships signed with leading

global technology firms to establish

model training ecosystems, expand

supercomputing infrastructure and

attract specialised AI talent. Several

universities have introduced advanced

programmes in artificial intelligence,

robotics, quantum computing and cybersecurity,

supported by scholarship

grants aimed at building a highly skilled

national workforce.

The energy sector is undergoing transformative

diversification. ADNOC has

expanded its investments in lower-carbon

solutions, hydrogen production,

and carbon capture projects, aligning

with the UAE’s 2050 Net Zero Strategy.

Major solar developments in Sweihan

and Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum

Solar Park are now among the world’s

largest, collectively contributing to

the nation’s goal of tripling renewable

power capacity. Meanwhile, new

regulatory frameworks in electricity

and water production are encouraging

private-sector participation, enabling

Abu Dhabi and Dubai to scale green

energy adoption more rapidly. The

UAE’s expanded role in global climate

diplomacy after COP28 has also

accelerated financing for sustainable

industrial projects, including green

steel, biofuels and electric mobility

ecosystems.

The financial sector continues to

deepen and internationalise. Recent

regulatory reforms in the Dubai International

Financial Centre (DIFC) and

Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) have

supported the entry of new asset managers,

fintech developers, sustainable

finance platforms and cross-border

banks. The UAE is rapidly positioning

itself as a regional centre for digital

assets, carbon trading and alternative

investment technologies, with

regulators strengthening frameworks

for stablecoins, tokenised assets and

virtual-asset service providers. As 2026

approaches, the UAE is evolving into

a diversified economic powerhouse

where capital, trade and innovation

converge. The strategic prioritisation

of AI, financial modernisation and advanced

trade networks underscores a

model of growth that is both resilient

and forward-looking, firmly positioning

the UAE.


Olight ArkPro Ultra:

Redefining Everyday

Carry Illumination

The Olight ArkPro Ultra EDC Flat Flashlight positions

itself as a premium everyday carry tool, combining

high-performance illumination with a compact,

flat-profile design. Engineered for professionals, outdoor

enthusiasts and urban users alike, the ArkPro

Ultra integrates multiple lighting technologies into a

single, durable chassis, delivering versatility without

compromising portability.

Expected Specs: Multi-Functionality in a Compact Form

Design

Flat, unibody design constructed

from proprietary O-aluminium

for enhanced durability

Durability

Impact-resistant construction

with IPX7 water resistance

Indicators

Built-in visual indicators for

battery level and brightness

Weight

Approximately 115–120g

Brightness Levels

Moonlight, Low, Medium, High

and Turbo modes

Lighting Modes:

- Floodlight for close-range tasks

- Spotlight for extended visibility

Battery

Integrated 2,000mAh rechargeable

lithium-polymer

battery

Charging

USB-C and magnetic charging

support

Runtime

Extended runtime in low and

moonlight modes


User Experience &

Practical Performance

The ArkPro Ultra’s flat profile allows it to sit discreetly

in a pocket or tool pouch, making it well-suited for

daily carry. Its four-in-one lighting system enables

seamless transitions between wide-angle illumination,

focused beam projection, UV inspection and

laser pointing, reducing the need for multiple tools.

Intuitive controls ensure quick access to different

lighting modes, while visual indicators provide instant

feedback on battery status and output level. Dual

charging options add convenience, particularly for

users who rely on their equipment throughout the day.

The flashlight’s balance of power, control and portability

makes it particularly suitable for fieldwork,

emergency preparedness and everyday urban use.

Performance Highlights

Versatile Lighting System: Multiple lighting modes

within a single compact device

High Peak Brightness: Strong output for both indoor

and outdoor applications

Availability

Pros

Status: Currently available

Markets: Widely stocked through international

retailers and authorised distributors

Compact and professional EDC design

Strong brightness with practical beam

options

UV and laser functions add genuine utility

Reliable build quality with weather resistance

Durable Construction: Robust materials designed

for daily use

Convenient Charging Options: USB-C and magnetic

charging flexibility

Integrated Battery: Battery is not user-replaceable

Thermal Regulation: Turbo output steps down to

manage heat

Cons

No removable battery for extended field use

Peak brightness cannot be sustained for

long durations

Flat form limits extreme long-distance

illumination

Final Thoughts

The Olight ArkPro Ultra is a thoughtfully engineered everyday carry flashlight that prioritises versatility, durability and ease of

use. By combining multiple lighting functions into a slim, pocket-friendly design, it delivers practical value for professionals

and enthusiasts who require dependable illumination across varied scenarios.

While its integrated battery and compact form impose some limitations, the ArkPro Ultra succeeds as a high-quality, multi-purpose

EDC lighting solution, offering a strong balance between innovation, performance and everyday practicality.


Interview

MANOJ SUREKA

CEO & Managing Partner,

Synergy Fin. Consulting

How AI Is Transforming

the Financial Services

Landscape

Manoj Sureka, CEO & Managing Partner of Synergy Fin. Consulting is a finance and investment leader with a track

record of driving growth. Formerly Head of Commercial Banking at RAKBANK, he has held senior roles at Mashreq Bank and

National Bank of Fujairah and mentors several companies.

Synergy Fin. Consulting offers fundraising advisory, M&A, and joint venture support for SMEs and corporates, connecting

clients with banks, financial institutions, and investors.


Exclusive Interview

Q: From your perspective, how has

artificial intelligence evolved from

an experimental tool to a core driver

of transformation in the financial

services sector?

AI has moved well beyond experimentation.

What began as isolated pilots in data

analytics or automation is now embedded

across core financial functions. Financial

institutions are increasingly using AI to

enhance decision-making, improve operational

efficiency, and manage risk at scale.

The shift has been driven by improved

data availability, stronger computing

power, and a clearer understanding of

where AI delivers tangible commercial

value rather than theoretical promise.

Q: Which areas of financial services

are seeing the most immediate impact

from AI today?

The most visible impact is in risk management,

fraud detection, and customer

experience. AI-driven models are enabling

real-time monitoring of transactions,

more accurate credit assessments, and

faster identification of anomalies. At the

same time, customer-facing applications,

such as intelligent chat interfaces and

personalised product recommendations,

are significantly improving engagement

and service efficiency.

Q: In the UAE specifically, what factors

have accelerated AI adoption

within financial institutions?

The UAE benefits from a strong digital

infrastructure, forward-looking regulation,

and clear national strategies that prioritise

technology-driven growth. Financial

institutions here are also operating in a

highly competitive environment, which

encourages early adoption of innovation.

Importantly, there is strong alignment

among government initiatives, regulators,

and the private sector, which reduces

friction in implementing new technologies,

such as AI.

Q: With the rise of AI-driven automation,

how do you see the role of

human decision-making evolving in

finance?

AI should be

viewed as an

augmentation

tool, not a

replacement

for human

judgment.”

AI should be viewed as an augmentation

tool, not a replacement for human

judgment. While automation can handle

repetitive and data-intensive tasks, strategic

decisions still require context, ethics,

and experience. The most effective institutions

are those that combine AI-driven

insights with human oversight, ensuring

accountability and sound decision-making.

Q: Data is the foundation of effective

AI. What challenges do financial

institutions face in building reliable

and ethical AI models?

The key challenges relate to data quality,

governance, and bias. Financial institutions

must ensure that their data is

accurate, representative, and securely

managed. Ethical considerations are

equally important; AI models must be

transparent and fair, particularly when

they influence credit decisions or customer

outcomes. Strong governance frameworks

and continuous monitoring are crucial

for addressing these challenges.

Q: How do you see collaboration between

financial institutions, fintechs,

and AI startups shaping innovation

in the UAE?

Collaboration is a key driver of innova-

tion. Traditional institutions bring scale,

trust, and regulatory experience, while

fintechs and AI startups bring agility and

specialised expertise. In the UAE, these

partnerships are accelerating the deployment

of new solutions and helping the

ecosystem remain globally competitive.

Q: Looking ahead to the next three

to five years, what major shifts do

you anticipate AI will bring?

We will see AI becoming more deeply

integrated into core systems rather

than operating as a standalone layer.

Decision-making will become faster and

more predictive, operational models will

be leaner, and customer experiences will

be more seamless. At the same time, regulations

around AI will mature, providing

clearer guidelines for responsible adoption.

Q: What advice would you give to financial

leaders who are still cautious

about AI adoption?

Caution is understandable, but inaction

carries its own risks. Leaders should start

with clearly defined use cases, invest in

strong governance, and build internal

capabilities gradually.

LESSONS LEARNED

I advise financial leaders not to delay

AI adoption. While caution is natural in

regulated environments, inaction can

create strategic blind spots. Approach

it as an incremental journey, guided by

five key questions, rather than starting

with the technology itself.

Is the process manual?

Is it costly to scale?

Is it slow or time-intensive?

Is it prone to error?

And are the associated risks clearly

understood?

By answering these questions, financial

leaders can identify low-risk, high-impact

starting points for AI adoption.


M&A News

e&’s O2 Slovakia to

Acquire UPC

Broadband Slovakia

in €95M Deal

O2 Slovakia, a subsidiary of

e& PPF Telecom Group,

has agreed to acquire UPC

Broadband Slovakia from Liberty

Global for approximately €95 million

(USD 111 million) on a cash‐free,

debt‐free basis. The deal, pending

regulatory approvals and customary

closing conditions, will enable O2

Slovakia to take full control of the

fixed broadband operator, significantly

expanding its Slovak market presence.

UPC Slovakia currently serves around

170,000 customers and covers roughly

647,000 homes across 80 cities. The

acquisition forms part of e&’s broader

strategy to strengthen its Central and

Eastern European operations and accelerate

the rollout of converged telecommunications

services. Integrating

UPC’s broadband infrastructure with

O2’s mobile offerings is expected to

enhance service quality, competitive

positioning, and long-term growth

prospects for the group in Slovakia.

Mubadala and Bain Capital Complete Service Logic

Acquisition to Drive Growth

Mubadala Investment Company,

in collaboration with

Bain Capital, has finalised

the acquisition of Service Logic, a

leading commercial HVAC and building

automation services provider,

from Leonard Green & Partners. The

deal marks a strategic step for both

investors to support Service Logic’s

next phase of expansion, leveraging

its extensive network of over 140 locations

and more than 5,000 technicians

across North America. Service Logic’s

full suite of mission‐critical services

includes preventative maintenance,

unit replacement and retrofit projects,

combining strong local execution with

national scale. Mubadala highlighted

its confidence in the company’s growth

prospects, essential services businesses,

while Bain Capital’s experience in

scaling market leaders is expected

to further strengthen Service Logic’s

platform and market presence.

Elm Boosts Investment in Saudi Digital Logistics

Platform Sahl Almadar

Saudi digital solutions provider

Elm Company has agreed

to increase its shareholding in

Sahl Almadar Trading Company, the

operator of the Madar digital logistics

platform, building on its existing

investment relationship. Elm initially

acquired a 30 per cent stake in Sahl

Almadar in 2021 and has now expanded

its ownership as part of a strategic

push to strengthen its offerings in

technology‐driven logistics solutions.

The Madar platform connects shippers

with carriers and provides tools for

managing supply chain operations,

including shipment tracking, automation

and digital payments. Elm’s

move underscores its commitment to

expanding its footprint in the logistics

technology segment and aligning with

broader digital transformation goals

in Saudi Arabia’s supply chain sector.

Final details of the increased stake

were not disclosed and the transaction

remains subject to regulatory

approvals.

Saudi Energy Group Midad Emerges as Top Bidder for Lukoil’s International

Portfolio

Saudi Arabia’s Midad Energy has

emerged as a leading contender

to acquire the international assets

of Russian oil company Lukoil,

according to sources familiar with the

matter. The overseas portfolio, valued

at around USD 22 billion, includes

oilfields, refineries and a network of

fuel stations across multiple countries.

The sale follows the impact of U.S.

sanctions targeting Lukoil’s foreign

operations amid the ongoing conflict

in Ukraine. Midad’s proposed cashbacked

offer, supported by strong

political and commercial connections,

positions the company favourably

among a competitive group of roughly

a dozen bidders, which also includes

U.S. energy majors and global investors.

The transaction is subject to

approval by the U.S. Treasury, with

a deadline set for January 17, 2026.

Both Midad and Lukoil have declined

to comment on the potential deal.


IHC Ups Stake in Invictus Investment to 40% with AED 420M Deal

Abu Dhabi‐based investment giant

IHC has boosted its shareholding

in Invictus Investment Company

PLC to approximately 40 per cent by

acquiring an additional 17.5 per cent

stake in a block trade worth about

AED 420 million, the company said.

The move increases IHC’s exposure

to Invictus’s diversified global trading

platform, which spans food commodities,

industrial inputs, logistics and

supply‐chain solutions. Invictus has posted

strong growth in international operations,

with first‐half 2025 earnings before

interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation

(EBITDA) up 164 per cent and revenues

rising 43 per cent year‐on‐year to reach

its highest half‐year performance since

its listing on the Abu Dhabi Securities

Exchange. The expanded stake underlines

IHC’s strategy of investing in high‐growth,

and globally integrated platforms.

Investcorp Capital Expands

U.S. Footprint with Acquisition

of Guardian Fire

Services

Investcorp Capital plc (“Investcorp

Capital”), the Abu Dhabi‐listed

alternative investment firm (ADX:

ICAP), has completed the acquisition

of Guardian Fire Services, a leading

U.S. fire protection and life safety

services provider. Guardian operates

across the Northeastern, Southeastern

and Western United States, delivering

comprehensive inspection, testing,

maintenance, installation and emergency

system services to commercial, industrial,

healthcare and educational clients. This

acquisition marks another strategic

investment for Investcorp Capital, bringing

its total new investment activity over

the past six months to approximately

$1.1 billion and reinforcing its commitment

to expanding its presence in resilient

service sectors. Guardian’s established

regional footprint and recurring revenue

model align with Investcorp Capital’s

long‐term growth strategy focused on

value creation, risk‐adjusted returns,

and diversifying its portfolio across

private markets.

Alpha Dhabi‐Mubadala Venture Expands European

Credit Footprint

Alpha Dhabi Holding PJSC (“Alpha

Dhabi”), one of the fastest-growing

investment holding

companies in the MENA region, listed

on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange

(ADX: AlphaDhabi), together with

Mubadala Investment Company PJSC

(“Mubadala”), a leading Abu Dhabi

sovereign investor, announced that

their joint venture has acquired a European

Direct Lending portfolio managed

by Apollo Global Management

(“Apollo”). Post-acquisition, Apollo

will continue to oversee and expand

the portfolio. Since its inception in

2023, the joint venture has prioritised

deploying capital into high-quality

credit opportunities across sectors

and geographies offering attractive

risk-adjusted returns. The newly

Dr. Soliman Abdel Kader Fakeeh

Hospital Company, operating

as Fakeeh Care, has agreed

to acquire a 50.01 per cent majority

stake in Saudi‐based Diagnostic Elite

Company for SAR 70 million (about

USD 18.7 million), strengthening its

position in the diagnostic and imaging

services market. Under the binding

share purchase agreement signed on

30 November 2025, Fakeeh Care will

buy shares from Soliman Abdul‐Qader

Fakeeh Real Estate Company at cost,

with remaining ownership retained by

the firm’s founders. The investment is

aimed at supporting Diagnostic Elite’s

expansion of its operate‐and‐manage

radiology services to 16 facilities

across Saudi Arabia, while aligning

acquired portfolio provides diversified

exposure, introducing positions

in Consumer Services and Goods,

while reinforcing existing allocations

in Healthcare, High Technology, Business

Services, and Financial Services.

Fakeeh Care Secures Controlling Stake in

Diagnostic Elite in SAR 70M Deal

with broader healthcare platform integration

efforts. The deal is subject to

regulatory and shareholder approvals

and will be funded from Fakeeh Care’s

internal resources.


Banking


Mobile banking apps now provide secure transaction approvals, replacing traditional SMS and email OTPs.

How the Phase-Out

of SMS and Email

OTPs Will Change UAE

Banking by 2026

UAE Banks Phase Out SMS and Email

OTPs, Adopting App-Based and Biometric

Authentication for Security.

The UAE is preparing to phase out traditional

SMS and email one‐time passwords

(OTPs) for digital banking by March 2026,

marking a significant shift towards enhanced

security and seamless user experience.

This regulatory move, mandated by

the Central Bank of the UAE, addresses

growing concerns over the vulnerabilities

of SMS and email authentication,

including phishing schemes, SIM‐swap

attacks, and interception risks. Banks will

replace these methods with app‐based

authentication, push notifications, biometric

verification, and offering customers

stronger protection against cyber threats.

As this transition approaches, banking

customers need to familiarise themselves

with the new systems, update their apps,

and prepare their devices.


The way customers authenticate

digital banking transactions in

the UAE is undergoing one of

the most significant security transformations

in recent years. The Central

Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) has issued

directives requiring all licensed banks

and financial institutions to phase out

one‐time passwords (OTPs) sent via

SMS and email and replace them with

more secure app‐based and biometric

authentication methods by March 31,

2026. This change marks a strategic

shift in the UAE’s digital banking security

architecture, aiming to protect

customers from evolving cyber threats

while streamlining the login and transaction

experience.

For years, customers in the UAE and

globally have relied on SMS and email

OTPs as a second layer of defence

for digital banking, whether logging

into online banking, authorising fund

transfers, or confirming card payments.

However, these OTPs have increasingly

been seen as a weak link in the

security chain. Techniques such as

SIM‐swap attacks, SMS interception,

phishing schemes, and exploitation

of telecommunications infrastructure

vulnerabilities (including SS7 protocol

risks) have made text‐based codes

susceptible to compromise. Cyber

criminals can intercept or trick users

into revealing OTPs, rendering this

method less trustworthy in a high‐stakes

digital economy.

To address these concerns and align

with global cybersecurity best practices,

UAE regulators and banks are moving

toward stronger, risk‐based authentication

that does not depend on telecom

channels. Instead, customers will

authenticate actions directly through

their bank’s mobile app, using methods

such as push‐notification approvals,

biometric verification (face or fingerprint),

device‐bound authentication

tokens, or emerging standards like

FIDO2 passkeys. These technologies are

designed to be phishing‐resistant and

tied securely to the customer’s physical

device, reducing the attack surface that

hackers previously exploited.

The phase‐out began on July 25,

2025, when banks started introducing

new app‐based authentication features

for digital transactions. During the

transition period, which runs through

March 2026, many customers may

still temporarily receive SMS or email

The Central Bank of the

UAE has mandated that

banks phase out SMS and

email one‐time passwords

by March 31, 2026,

adopting stronger

in‐app and biometric

authentication methods

to elevate digital banking

security and protect

customers against

evolving cyber threats.”

H.E. Khaled Mohamed Balama, Governor,

Central Bank of the UAE

OTPs in some scenarios as app‐based

methods are rolled out. However, by

the deadline, traditional OTP codes

will be discontinued entirely for all

retail and corporate digital banking

transactions.

For customers, this shift has several

key implications: first, you will no longer

receive OTP codes by SMS or email

for online transactions. Instead, when

performing actions such as transferring

money, paying bills, or logging into

internet banking, your bank will send a

push notification to your app asking you

to approve the action. You may also be

asked to authenticate using biometric

features or an app‐specific PIN. This

method is not only more secure — it

also simplifies the user experience

by eliminating the need to copy‐paste

codes from your messages or inbox.

Second, because authentication will

happen inside the mobile app, mobile

banking will become central to your

daily banking activities. Ensuring your

app is up‐to‐date and that you have enabled

notifications and biometric login

is essential. Customers who have not

yet installed their bank’s mobile app or

who do not use a smartphone will need

to plan: banks may offer alternative

secure authentication channels, but

SMS and email OTPs will no longer

be available after March 2026. Third,

there are practical customer steps

you should take now to prepare for

the transition:

● Update your mobile banking app

to the latest version.

● Register your device and enable

push notifications and biometric

authentication.

● Set up fallback access options, such

as PIN authentication or secondary

devices, in case your primary

smartphone is lost or inaccessible.

● Familiarise yourself with how

app‐based approvals work so you

aren’t caught off guard when traditional

OTPs stop arriving.

From a security perspective, this

change offers real benefits. App‐based

authentication typically allows customers

to see the exact details of a

transaction (such as amount and payee)

before confirming a level of context that

SMS or email OTPs cannot provide. Because

the authentication is tied to your

bank app and your device, attackers

cannot easily intercept or impersonate

it, reducing the risks associated with

theft and fraud.

The phase‐out of SMS and email

OTPs by March 2026 represents a

significant leap forward in UAE banking

security. Customers will benefit

from safer, app‐based and biometric

authentication, reducing fraud risks

and streamlining digital transactions.

By proactively preparing, UAE banking

customers can embrace a more

secure and convenient digital banking

experience.


Banking News

MBRHE and DIB Form

Strategic Partnership

Mohammed Bin Rashid Housing

Establishment (MBRHE) has

signed a strategic cooperation

agreement with Dubai Islamic Bank

(DIB) aimed at enhancing housing

finance services for citizens in Dubai

and streamlining financing procedures,

contributing to the improvement of

citizens’ quality of life. The agreement

seeks to improve operational

efficiency and expedite service delivery

through the establishment of

a secure and seamless electronic

integration that enables the exchange

of documents and financial transactions

between the Establishment

and the Bank, thereby enhancing the

beneficiary experience. The signing

ceremony was attended by Mohammed

Al Shehhi, CEO of MBRHE, and Dr.

Adnan Chilwan, Group Chief Executive

Officer of DIB.

The agreement represents a significant

step in strengthening coordination

between government entities

and financial institutions to ensure

effective and reliable housing finance

solutions for citizens.

Ministry of Finance Signs Third Retail Sukuk

Agreement with Emirates Islamic Bank

The UAE Ministry of Finance

has formalised its third agreement

under the Retail Sukuk

Initiative with Emirates Islamic Bank,

reinforcing the nation’s commitment

to expanding Sharia-compliant investment

opportunities for individual

investors. This partnership is designed

to provide retail investors with secure,

accessible avenues to participate in

the country’s sovereign debt market,

while promoting financial inclusion

and diversity in investment options.

Through the initiative, Emirates Islamic

Bank will facilitate the subscription

and management of Sukuk products,

ensuring transparency with regulatory

standards. The collaboration reflects

the UAE’s strategic focus on developing

a robust capital market that

supports sustainable economic growth,

attracts investment, and strengthens

the country’s position as a leading hub

for Islamic finance in the region.

ADGM Reports 48% Rise in AUM and Robust Q3

Growth as Licences Surpass 11,900

Abu Dhabi Global Market

(ADGM) recorded a remarkable

48% year-on-year increase

in Assets Under Management (AUM)

in Q3 2025, highlighting its growing

stature as a leading financial hub. The

free zone now hosts 161 asset and

fund managers overseeing 220 funds,

demonstrating its expanding influence

in wealth and fund management. By

the end of the quarter, total active

licences exceeded 11,900, with 2,801

issued in 2025 alone, while operational

entities rose to 3,227, marking

a 43% increase. Real estate activity

also surged, with transaction values

climbing 104%, off-plan and ready-unit

sales up 78%, and project registrations

doubling as newly integrated areas,

such as Al Reem Island, attracted

significant investor interest. This performance

underscores ADGM’s robust

growth and strategic positioning in the

regional financial landscape.

UAE Residents Can Now Invest in Retail Sukuk via the Emirates Islamic App

Residents and citizens of the

UAE can now invest in government-backed

Islamic Treasury

Sukuk (T-Sukuk) starting from just

AED 4,000 (around USD 1,089) through

the Emirates Islamic mobile banking

app. This move is part of the Ministry

of Finance’s “Retail Sukuk” initiative,

designed to promote financial

inclusion and provide retail investors

with direct access to sovereign, Shariah-compliant

instruments. The platform

allows users to complete registration

online using their Emirates ID or


UAE PASS, fulfil Know Your Customer

requirements, and view all investment

terms and transaction details within

the app. Fractional sukuk investments

enable individuals to participate with

relatively modest capital, making

government-backed Islamic finance

accessible to a broader audience.

Saudi Banking Assets Hit SAR 4.94T Amid Unprecedented GrowthGrowth

Saudi Arabia’s banking sector has

achieved a historic milestone,

with total assets reaching SAR4.94

trillion by the end of October, marking

the highest level ever recorded. This

remarkable growth reflects a combination

of strong domestic economic momentum,

increased lending activity, and expanding

investment opportunities, all supported

by the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 economic

transformation initiatives. Private‐sector

liabilities remain a major component of

bank balance sheets, while holdings in

foreign assets, central bank reserves,

treasury bills, and fixed assets continue

to strengthen financial stability. The surge

underscores the resilience of Saudi banks

in navigating evolving market conditions,

meeting growing customer demands,

and driving economic development. This

growth reflects their ability to support

the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 objectives.

UAE, Saudi Banks Set to

Post Strong Credit Growth

in 2026

Bank lending across the UAE,

Saudi Arabia, and much of the

Middle East is projected to rise

next year, supported by robust economic

conditions, according to Fitch Ratings.

Regional lenders are expected to report

positive earnings despite anticipated

lower interest rates, while banks’ asset

quality and liquidity are also likely to

remain strong. Fitch notes that “banks

will maintain generally sound profitability

despite expected lower interest rates,

and stable asset quality, healthy liquidity

and adequate capital buffers for their

risk profiles.” Most banks in the region

carry a low to moderate default risk,

with around two-thirds holding high

credit quality or investment-grade Issuer

Default Ratings (IDRs). This resilience

is underpinned by perceived sovereign

support and the lenders’ solid standalone

creditworthiness, ensuring continued

financial stability and confidence in the

banking sector.

Qatar Central Bank Activates Qatari Riyal and

Foreign-Currency Transfers

Qatar Central Bank (QCB) has

officially activated Qatari Riyal

and foreign-currency transfer

services through the Real-Time Gross

Settlement System (QA-RTGS) across

local banks, reinforcing the Third

Financial Sector Strategy and the nation’s

commitment to modernising its

payment systems. The development

allows both domestic and foreign-currency

transactions to be processed

and settled locally with enhanced

efficiency, speed, and flexibility, while

bolstering security measures. By supporting

a more sophisticated digital

banking environment, the initiative

aligns Qatar’s financial infrastructure

with international best practices. QCB

emphasised that this upgrade not

only strengthens the resilience and

H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed

bin Rashid Al Maktoum,

First Deputy Ruler of

Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and

Minister of Finance, met with Alexander

Wynaendts, Chairman of Deutsche

Bank AG, a leading global financial institution.

The meeting highlighted the

UAE’s banking and finance sector entering

a high-growth phase, propelled

by technological innovation and digital

transformation. H.H. Sheikh Maktoum

emphasised the opportunities for

international banks to leverage the

UAE’s robust governance, regulation,

infrastructure, and business-supportive

ecosystem. Discussions focused

on Dubai’s emergence as a global

hub for investment, capital flows, and

reliability of the country’s banking

system but also advances the digital

transformation of the financial sector,

contributing directly to the long-term

economic goals outlined in Qatar National

Vision 2030.

Maktoum bin Mohammed Holds Meeting with

Deutsche Bank Chairman

enterprise development, alongside its

commitment to fostering international

banking growth. Strengthening partnerships

with global financial institutions

was underscored as a strategic

priority under Dubai Economic Agenda

D33, aimed at doubling GDP by 2033

and ranking Dubai among the world’s

top financial cities.


Corporate Results

Dubai Investments

9M’25 Net Profit: AED 1.1B

Dubai Investments, the diversified

group listed on the Dubai Financial

Market, reported profit before tax of

AED 1.1 billion for the nine months

ended 30 September 2025, a 59 per cent

increase from AED 687.7 million a year

earlier. Profit before tax for the third

quarter alone rose sharply by 115 per

cent to AED 550.4 million, compared

with AED 256 million in Q3 2024. The

performance was driven by stable

growth in rental income, strong results

from the manufacturing segment and

improved returns from its investment

portfolio. Total assets stood at AED

23.57 billion as of end-September 2025,

up from AED 22.01 billion at the close

of 2024, while shareholders’ equity

increased to AED 14.37 billion. Vice

Chairman and CEO Khalid Bin Kalban

said the results underscore the group’s

diversified strategy.

Salik


Salik Company PJSC, Dubai’s exclusive

toll-gate operator, reported robust financial

results for the first nine months of

2025, with total revenue climbing 38.6 per

cent year-on-year to AED 2.28 billion and

net profit rising 39.1 per cent to AED 1.14

billion, supported by higher traffic volumes

and strategic initiatives including

new toll gates and smart mobility partnerships.

EBITDA grew 42 per cent to

AED 1.58 billion with a healthy margin

of 69.6 per cent, reflecting strong operational

performance. Chargeable trips increased

significantly, underpinning topline

momentum, while ancillary revenues

also rose. The company highlighted the

positive impact of variable pricing and

Dubai’s sustained economic growth on its

financial performance. Salik reaffirmed

its confidence in delivering continued

revenue growth and value creation for

shareholders.

Air Arabia

Q3’25 Net Profit: AED 656M

Air Arabia, the largest low‐cost carrier

in the Middle East and North Africa,

has reported a record third-quarter net

profit of AED 656 million for Q3 2025,

representing a 16 per cent year-on-year

increase. The strong performance reflects

continued recovery in air travel

demand across the region with a surge

in both business and leisure passengers.

Revenue for the quarter rose 14 per cent

to AED 2.04 billion, while passenger

numbers increased to 5.9 million, with

an average seat load factor of 85 per

cent, highlighting capacity utilisation.

The airline’s robust results were aided

by strategic network expansion. For the

first nine months, Air Arabia reported

a net profit of AED 1.42 billion and

revenue of AED 5.49 billion, with total

passenger traffic exceeding 16 million,

and AED 656 million in strong regional

growth.

Dubai’s DTC

Q3’25 Net Profit: AED 76.4M

Dubai Taxi Company (DTC) reported

a robust performance for the third

quarter of 2025, with net profit rising

28 per cent year-on-year to AED 76.4

million (US$20.8 million), supported

by ongoing fleet expansion and strong

demand across its service lines. Total

trips increased 7 per cent to 13.1

million, contributing to a 15 per cent

rise in quarterly revenue to AED 585.3

million (US$159.4 million). EBITDA

grew 23 per cent to AED 151.4 million

(US$41.23 million), improving the

margin to 26 per cent. By September

2025, DTC’s operational fleet reached

10,500 vehicles, up 19 per cent. The taxi

division generated AED 506 million

(US$137.8 million), including contributions

from 401 electric taxis, while

limousine revenue stood at AED 27.8

million (US$7.57 million).

Spinneys


Spinneys delivered a strong financial

performance in the first nine months

of 2025, reporting AED 2.6 billion (USD

710 million) in revenue, a 12.8 per

cent increase year‐on‐year driven by

strategic store expansion, higher fresh

and private label sales, and rising

online penetration. Profit before tax

rose 24.4 per cent to AED 253 million

(USD 63.9 million), while profit for

the period climbed 16.4 per cent to

AED 212 million (USD 57.7 million)

despite absorbing additional corporate

tax under Pillar Two rules. Adjusted

EBITDA reached AED 503 million

(USD 136.9 million), up 19.5 per cent,

with an industry‐leading margin of

19.4 per cent. Transaction volumes

grew 12.3 per cent, underpinned by

strong like‐for‐like sales growth and

new store rollouts.

ADNOC L&S


ADNOC Logistics & Services (AD-

NOC L&S) reported record financial

results for the first nine months of

2025, underpinned by strong growth

across all business segments. Revenue

surged 39 per cent year‐on‐year to

AED 13.63 billion (USD 3.71 billion),

while EBITDA climbed 30 per cent to


maintaining an EBITDA margin of

around 30 per cent. Net profit reached

AED 2.32 billion, marking a 9 per cent

increase compared with the same period

last year, reflecting resilient operational

performance and strategic expansion

in integrated logistics and shipping.

Third‐quarter results were also robust,

with revenue up 36 per cent and net

profit rising 20 per cent YoY. ADNOC

L&S plans a 20 per cent YoY increase

in full‐year dividends.


ADNIC

9M’25 Net Profit: AED 354.7M

Abu Dhabi National Insurance Company

(ADNIC) delivered robust financial

results for the first nine months

of 2025, with total insurance revenue

reaching AED 6.1 billion (USD 1.66 billion),

up 16.1 per cent year‐on‐year from

AED 5.2 billion. This growth underpinned

a 15.3 per cent increase in profit

before tax to AED 395 million and a profit

after tax of AED 354.7 million. Gross

written premiums climbed 17.4 per

cent to AED 7.21 billion, while net investment

income rose 10.4 per cent to

AED 223.3 million, reflecting strong underwriting

discipline and operational efficiency.

Strategic initiatives, including a

long‐term partnership with Allianz Trade

and investments in artificial intelligence,

helped expand specialised offerings and

enhance customer experience. Total assets

stood at AED 10.6 billion.

Dubai’s DEWA


Dubai Electricity and Water Authority

(DEWA) posted record financial results

for the first nine months of 2025, with

revenue rising 5.9 per cent year-on-year

to AED 24.9 billion (USD 6.8 billion)

and operating profit increasing 21.5 per

cent to AED 8.3 billion. Net profit surged

24.8 per cent to AED 6.8 billion, while

EBITDA grew 11.9 per cent to AED 13.1

billion, reflecting strong operational

efficiency and robust demand. The

company generated AED15.2 billion

in cash from operations during this

period. In Q3 alone, DEWA recorded

revenue of AED 10.3 billion, up 4.5 per

cent year-on-year, and an operating

profit of AED 4.6 billion. H.E. Saeed

Mohammed Al Tayer, Vice Chairman and

Managing Director & CEO, described

it as DEWA’s strongest year-to-date

performance in history.

Emaar


Emaar Properties delivered robust

financial results for the first nine

months of 2025, with revenue rising

39 per cent to AED 33.1 billion

(USD 9 billion), supported by strong

property sales and recurring income

streams. The company’s net profit

before tax climbed 35 per cent to


reflecting disciplined cost management

and diversified performance across

development, retail, hospitality, and

international markets. EBITDA also

grew 32 per cent to AED 16.6 billion

(USD 4.5 billion), maintaining healthy

margins. Emaar’s property sales reached

AED 61 billion (USD 16.6 billion. The

group’s recurring revenue businesses,

delivered stable growth, underscoring

Emaar’s resilient business model and

leadership in Dubai’s real estate market.

Burjeel Holdings

Q3’25 Net Profit: AED 175M

Burjeel Holdings delivered a record‐breaking

third quarter in 2025,

driven by rising patient footfall and

a stronger case mix across its healthcare

network. Q3 revenue climbed

to AED 1,422 million (USD 387 million),

underpinned by robust patient

growth, while EBITDA rose 17.1 per

cent to AED 320 million and net profit

surged 27.5 per cent to AED 175 million

year‐on‐year, reflecting improved operating

efficiency and capital leverage.

For the first nine months, revenue grew

10.6 per cent to AED 4,099 million with

total patient visits up 7.3 per cent to

5.1 million, highlighting deeper market

penetration. Burjeel also saw significant

increases in complex procedures and

surgical volumes, further reinforcing

its position as a leading super-speciality

healthcare provider in the MENA

region and supporting confidence in

its long‐term growth prospects.

Alpha Dhabi


Alpha Dhabi Holding delivered a strong

performance in the first nine months

of 2025, reporting group revenue of


up 24 per cent year-on-year, driven by

contributions from its diversified portfolio,

including industrial, real estate,

construction and services divisions.

Adjusted EBITDA grew 25 per cent

to AED 12.8 billion (USD 3.49 billion),

while net profit reached AED 10.4 billion

(USD 2.83 billion), underscoring

robust operational growth. Total assets

expanded 16 per cent to AED 205.6 billion

(USD 56 billion), with cash reserves

of AED 31.7 billion (USD 8.63 billion)

and equity of AED 100.8 billion (USD

27.45 billion). Leadership highlighted

the company’s strategic focus on value-accretive

investments and innovation,

particularly artificial intelligence,

as central to its continued expansion

and future growth momentum.

TECOM Group


TECOM Group reported a strong set

of nine-month results for 2025, with

net profit rising more than 18 per cent

to over AED 1.1 billion (about USD

299 million), underpinned by record

occupancy levels, higher rental rates

and improved operational efficiencies

across its business districts. Revenue

exceeded AED 2.1 billion, up 20 per

cent year-on-year, while EBITDA grew

20 per cent to AED 1.7 billion, reflecting

robust performance across commercial

and industrial assets. The group’s strategic

expansion plan, including AED 4.3

billion of investments in Dubai’s premium

commercial and industrial land,

supported this growth and reinforced

its contribution to Dubai’s pro-business

environment. Leadership highlighted

disciplined capital management and

sustained demand for quality business

spaces as key drivers of value creation

and long-term shareholder returns.


Market Insights


Aerial view of Dubai skyline showcasing new developments and high-demand residential communities in 2026

Dubai Real Estate

2026: Record Growth &

Investor Outlook

Dubai’s Property Market Enters 2026 with

Record Growth, Strong Investor Interest, and

Opportunities Across all Segments

Dubai’s real estate sector is entering a

defining and transformative year in 2026,

marked by record growth, evolving investor

sentiment, and a maturing market

landscape. Following several years

of strong performance driven by foreign

investment, population expansion, and

government initiatives, the sector is now

entering a more balanced phase where

opportunities coexist with measured caution.

As the emirate continues to attract

international buyers, professionals, and

high-net-worth individuals, investors are

increasingly focused on premium locations,

sustainable developments, and

long-term capital appreciation, signalling

a dynamic and resilient property market

poised for continued growth and stability

in the year ahead.


Dubai’s real estate sector is entering

a pivotal phase as it heads

into 2026, shaped by record

activity, structural shifts and evolving

investor sentiment. After years of

strong momentum driven by foreign

capital inflows, population expansion

and favourable economic policies,

the market is now balancing growth

with moderation, prompting both optimism

and caution among investors.

Developers are seeing high demand

for premium properties, while rental

markets continue to perform strongly.

The emirate remains an attractive hub

for international investment due to its

strategic location, regulatory support

and diverse economy.

Strong Fundamentals Support

Long-Term Demand

Dubai’s demographic and economic

trends remain powerful drivers for

property demand. The city’s population

is projected to continue rising

due to immigration and residency

programmes, creating sustained housing

needs across both residential and

commercial sectors. Economic diversification,

which includes expanding

technology, tourism, logistics and

sustainability sectors, continues to

attract multinational companies and

skilled professionals. This broadens the

base of potential buyers and tenants

beyond traditional expatriate segments,

reinforcing Dubai’s appeal as a global

business and lifestyle hub.

The policy framework also remains investor-friendly.

Full foreign ownership

rights, long-term residency incentives

and competitive business conditions

have boosted international confidence

and participation in the property market.

Investors are increasingly drawn

to communities with well-developed

infrastructure, proximity to transport

links and quality amenities, while government

initiatives aimed at modernising

urban development are supporting

demand for new projects.

Price Trajectory and Market Outlook

After a period of double-digit growth

between 2022 and early 2025, many

analysts expect a shift toward more

measured price movement in 2026.

While some forecasts suggest moderate

appreciation in property values, others

anticipate stability or mild corrections

as supply increases. Prime locations

such as Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina

and Business Bay are expected to see

steady gains, while mid-market communities

are likely to experience stable

growth. Rental markets are projected to

remain resilient, with yields particularly

strong in high-demand areas.

The residential market is expected

to balance growth with moderation

due to a significant increase in housing

supply. Large-scale developments are

scheduled for completion, which could

exert downward pressure on apartment

prices in certain segments. This does

not indicate a full-scale downturn but

Dubai’s real estate sector

continues to demonstrate

strong momentum and

resilience, supported

by strategic policy

frameworks, expanding

international investment

and a growing population,

reinforcing the emirate’s

position as a global

property and lifestyle

destination.”

H.E. Eng. Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita,

Director General, Dubai Muncipality

reflects a natural adjustment in the market

as it matures. Investors are advised

to focus on segments with structural

demand and strong fundamentals to

ensure sustainable returns.

Segment-Specific Dynamics

The ultra-luxury segment continues

to outperform other areas. Waterfront

villas, branded residences and

high-end penthouses remain highly

sought after by global investors seeking

lifestyle appeal and long-term value.

These properties benefit from limited

availability and strong international

demand. Mid-market and affordable

housing are also attracting interest,

particularly in communities such as

Jumeirah Village Circle, Arjan, Town

Square and Dubai South. These areas

offer attractive rental yields and potential

for capital appreciation while

catering to a broader range of buyers.

Off-plan properties remain a key

feature of the market, driven by flexible

payment plans and early-stage

pricing. These investments appeal

to buyers seeking capital growth at

completion and remain a preferred

option for many investors. Developers

continue to offer tailored solutions to

attract both domestic and international

investors, contributing to a vibrant

market dynamic.

Rental Market and Yields

Dubai’s rental sector is expected to

remain strong as expatriates and professionals

continue to drive occupancy

across key communities. Rental growth

in prime areas is likely to be robust,

while mid-market rents remain stable

or see modest increases. Rental yields

across select segments are expected to

remain attractive, providing investors

with a competitive advantage compared

to other global cities. Dubai’s real estate

market in 2026 is set to combine growth

with stability, offering opportunities

across luxury, mid-market and off-plan

segments. While supply expansion

may moderate price increases, strong

fundamentals, strategic location and

investor-friendly policies continue to

attract both domestic and international

buyers. Investors who prioritise

quality, location and diversification

are positioned to capitalise on the

emirate’s evolving landscape, ensuring

continued success in a maturing yet

dynamic property market.


Economy


Dubai’s expansive 2026 budget highlights strategic investments shaping its future-ready economic and social landscape.

Dubai’s Record 2026

Budget: The Catalyst for

a New Global Wealth

Geography

Dubai’s Record 2026 Budget Sets a Bold

Economic Direction, Reinforcing its Ambition

for Sustained Global Leadership.

Dubai’s record 2026 budget sets a powerful

precedent for how the emirate

intends to shape its economic future

amid shifting global dynamics. Marking

the largest fiscal plan in its history, the

budget underscores a determined push

to strengthen diversified growth, accelerate

digital transformation, and enhance

the city’s social and physical infrastructure.

It reflects a government focused on

long-term stability, competitiveness, and

innovation-led development. As global

wealth flows reconfigure and investors

seek resilient, forward-looking markets,

Dubai’s strategic fiscal direction positions

the emirate to expand its influence and

secure sustained economic prominence,

while fostering innovation and attracting

talent across diverse sectors.


Dubai’s 2026 budget is not merely

a financial plan; it is a strategic

framework designed to position

the emirate as a global centre for

capital, innovation, and talent. With a

total expenditure of AED 302.7 billion

and projected revenues of AED 329.2

billion over the 2026–2028 period,

this record budget cycle underscores

Dubai’s commitment to long-term

economic resilience and growth. The

plan aligns with the objectives of the

Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which

aims to double the size of the emirate’s

economy and elevate it into the ranks

of the world’s leading global cities. By

combining ambitious investment with

fiscal discipline, Dubai signals a decisive

intent to shape the next chapter

of global wealth geography.

A primary driver of the 2026 budget is

the focus on economic diversification.

Dubai continues to prioritise non-oil

sectors such as advanced trade, digital

technologies, logistics, manufacturing,

renewable energy, and financial services.

These sectors are earmarked

to attract foreign investment, foster

homegrown competitiveness, and

ensure sustainable wealth creation.

By strengthening non-oil industries,

Dubai reduces vulnerability to market

volatility and creates a resilient economic

model capable of adapting to

evolving global trends. This strategic

approach demonstrates the emirate’s

understanding that future economic

success depends on innovation, agility,

and the development of competitive

new sectors.

Infrastructure and Smart

Development

Infrastructure investment forms another

cornerstone of the budget. Nearly

half of the 2026 expenditure is allocated

to developing the emirate’s physical

and digital foundations. Key projects

include intelligent transport systems,

renewable energy grids, urban development

initiatives, data centres, and

smart connectivity networks. These

investments are designed to support

Dubai’s growing population and expanding

business ecosystem while

enhancing the emirate’s attractiveness

to investors. Improved infrastructure

ensures operational efficiency, promotes

mobility, and signals long-term

planning, reinforcing Dubai’s status as a

preferred destination for multinational

firms and high-growth start-ups.

Social development also features

prominently in the budget, reflecting

the understanding that quality of life

drives competitiveness. Investment in

healthcare, education, social welfare,

housing, and community services

strengthens human capital and talent

attraction. By enhancing public

Dubai’s 2026 budget

reflects the UAE’s

commitment to

strengthening diversified,

innovation-led growth for

future stability.”

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

Economy and Tourism, UAE

services, Dubai positions itself as a

city where skilled professionals and

high-net-worth individuals can thrive.

Such social investments also reinforce

workforce readiness, societal wellbeing,

and overall livability, which are

increasingly critical factors influencing

investment and business decisions in

global markets.

Fiscal stability remains a central

tenet of Dubai’s financial strategy.

Despite record spending, the budget

maintains a prudent approach to

revenue mobilisation, expenditure

efficiency, and debt management. By

targeting a balanced fiscal framework,

the government ensures predictability

and transparency for investors. Fiscal

discipline strengthens credibility in

an environment marked by inflationary

pressures and global economic

volatility, providing a foundation for

sustained growth and long-term policy

implementation.

Digital Transformation and

Innovation

Digital transformation underpins

Dubai’s vision of a future-ready economy.

The 2026 budget allocates substantial

resources to smart government

services, AI-driven infrastructure,

cybersecurity frameworks, and innovation

hubs. These initiatives enhance

operational efficiency, reduce costs,

and improve service quality for both

businesses and residents. By fostering

a technologically enabled ecosystem,

Dubai encourages the growth of emerging

sectors such as fintech, blockchain,

e-commerce, and health tech. This

positions the emirate at the forefront

of data-driven, innovation-led global

wealth networks.

Sustainability is also a key focus of

the budget, supporting the emirate’s

ambition to lead in climate-conscious

development. Investments in renewable

energy, sustainable mobility, and

environmentally responsible urban

planning reflect Dubai’s commitment to

long-term environmental goals. Aligning

economic growth with green initiatives

ensures the city remains competitive in

a world where investors increasingly

prioritise environmental governance

and climate-resilient infrastructure.

These measures reinforce Dubai’s position

as a global leader in sustainable

economic development.

Dubai’s record 2026 budget reflects a

strategic vision designed to strengthen

long-term economic resilience and global

relevance. By prioritising diversified

growth, and sustainable infrastructure,

the emirate positions itself to capture

emerging opportunities in an increasingly

competitive global landscape. The

budget’s forward-looking allocations

reinforce Dubai’s ambition to remain

a leading destination for investment,

innovation, and talent. As global wealth

flows evolve, Dubai stands prepared to

shape the next chapter of economic

leadership.


Local News

UAE Digital Dirham’s First Phase to be Free for Users

The Central Bank of the UAE has

announced plans to introduce the

initial phase of the digital dirham,

signalling a significant development

in the country’s financial landscape.

According to the central bank, the

digital currency will enable real-time

settlement of transactions, improve the

flow of funds and payments, and expand

access to digital financial services. The

initiative will be made available free

UAE Digital Asset

Expansion: botim

Money & Binance Deal

Binance Money has signed a

Memorandum of Understanding

with Binance to explore integrating

digital asset trading and investment

services for users in the UAE. Moreover,

the agreement signals a move to connect

everyday communication platforms with

the expanding crypto economy. The MoU

was signed during Binance Blockchain

Week in Dubai. Therefore, it supports

Botim Money’s shift from a VoIP-led

service into a fintech-first ecosystem.

Additionally, the collaboration aims

to let users pay, transfer, and invest in

digital assets within the same app they

use for messaging and remittances.

The partnership focuses on combining

Binance’s digital asset capabilities with

Botim Money’s broad user base across

the UAE. As a result, both parties plan to

identify practical, secure, and compliant

ways for users to access cryptocurrencies.

Moreover, the initiative reflects rising

regional demand for digital assets as

part of daily financial activity.

of charge to individuals and small and

medium-sized enterprises. The Digital

Dirham is a central bank digital currency,

meaning it represents a direct liability

of the Central Bank of the UAE rather

than commercial banks. It is fully interchangeable

with physical dirham cash

and bank deposits and has been designed

as a non-interest-bearing instrument to

function primarily as a payment tool

rather than a savings product.

ADNOC Distribution Rolls Out AE Coin Payments

Nationwide

A

strategic memorandum of understanding

has been announced to

enable AE Coin digital payments

across a nationwide fuel and convenience

retail network in the UAE. As a result, the

retailer became the first in its sector to

allow customers to pay using AE Coin,

the country’s first stablecoin of its kind,

through a collaboration with a local digital

bank. Under the agreement, AE Coin

will be integrated into payment channels

across fuel and service stations, convenience

stores, and car wash facilities. As

a result, customers will gain access to a

new digital payment option that complements

existing methods. Moreover, the

AED-backed and Central Bank-licensed

virtual asset will support transactions at

high-frequency, everyday touchpoints. The

agreement was signed during Abu Dhabi

Finance Week. Consequently, it aligns

with national efforts to advance secure

and regulated digital-payment solutions.

BEYOND Unveils Purpose-Driven Living Concept

on Dubai Islands with SIORA

BEYOND Developments, the bold

and design-led real estate developer

shaping next-generation waterfront

destinations in the UAE, today unveiled

SIORA, its first beachfront masterplan

on the Dubai Islands and the company’s

second large-scale community within a

year. The launch underscores BEYOND’s

accelerated growth and strong alignment

with Dubai’s future urban vision. Spanning

over 2M square feet, SIORA is conceived as

a coastal sanctuary inspired by Japanese

garden philosophies, including the

pursuit of Ikigai, the Japanese concept

of finding purpose and fulfilment in

everyday life. In this context, it reflects a

philosophy of creating spaces that bring

clarity, balance, and a sense of meaning,

where architecture nurtures wellbeing

and restores harmony between people,

nature, and place.


Etihad Airways Passenger Numbers Up 28% in November 2025

Etihad Airways carried 2.1 million

passengers in November,

reflecting a 28 per cent increase

compared to the same month last

year and marking the airline’s highest

monthly traffic level recorded so far

in 2025. Operational performance remained

strong during the month, with

the airline reporting a passenger load

factor of 89 per cent, underscoring

sustained demand across its network.

Between January and November 2025,

Dubai-Based Azizi to

Invest $544M in Abu

Dhabi’s KEZAD

Abu Dhabi-listed AD Ports Group

has entered into its second

50-year lease agreement with

Dubai-based Azizi Developments, further

expanding industrial and logistics

capacity in the emirate. Under the

new agreement, Azizi Developments

has secured plots in KEZAD covering

nearly 440,000 square metres. As a

result, the site will accommodate 12

factories designed to increase production

capacity and strengthen supply

chain resilience. Moreover, the facilities

will support Azizi’s expanding

project pipeline, including large-scale

master-planned communities and ongoing

developments across the UAE.

Consequently, the total investment

linked to this phase will reach AED 2

billion ($544.59 million), reinforcing

long-term confidence in Abu Dhabi’s

industrial ecosystem. Previously, in

October 2024, the two parties signed a

separate 50-year land lease for 220,000

square metres in KEZAD Al Ma’mourah.

At that time, the agreement aimed to

meet rising demand from the regional

housing and construction sector.

Etihad transported a total of 20.2 million

passengers, representing a 20 per cent

year-on-year rise, while maintaining an

average load factor of 88 per cent over

the eleven months. Network expansion

continued in November with the

launch of new routes to Tunis, Hanoi,

Chiang Mai, Hong Kong and Medina,

supporting ongoing passenger growth

and strengthening inbound travel flows

to Abu Dhabi, while further solidifying

its position as a global travel hub.

Dubai Debuts Robotaxi Pilot On Uber App With

WeRide

Dubai has launched its first public

Robotaxi pilot, marking a

notable milestone in the emirate’s

long-term vision for autonomous

mobility. Introduced through a major

ride-hailing platform in partnership

with autonomous driving technology

firm WeRide, the initiative aligns closely

with Dubai’s Self-Driving Transport

Strategy, which aims for 25 per cent

of all journeys in the city to be autonomous

by 2030. The move further

cements Dubai’s position as a regional

frontrunner in smart and next-generation

mobility solutions. The Roads

and Transport Authority confirmed

that the WeRide Robotaxi service is

currently available in Umm Suqeim

and Jumeirah, chosen for their high

visibility, accessibility and proximity to

popular coastal destinations. Residents

and visitors can book trips by selecting

the “Autonomous” option in the app.

UAE Announces New Two-Tier Sugar Tax From

2026

Starting 1 January 2026, the UAE will

implement a tiered sugar tax on

beverages containing more than

five grams of sugar per 100 millilitres.

This initiative aims to encourage healthier

consumption habits and support

public health across the community. As

a result, sugary drinks may now cost

more at the point of purchase, with

taxes ranging from AED0.79 to AED1.09

per litre depending on sugar content.

The amendment follows a broader

GCC approach, with Saudi Arabia also

planning to introduce sugar levies from

the same date, though details are yet

to be announced. Cabinet Decision

No. 197 of 2025, issued by the Ministry

of Finance, replaces the earlier 2019

resolution on excise goods, and a clear

framework for selective goods. Under

the new system, beverages containing

between five and eight grams of sugar

per 100ml will be taxed at AED 0.79

per litre.


Tourism


Tourists exploring iconic GCC landmarks enjoy seamless travel across six countries with the new unified visa.

A New Era for Tourism:

Economic Impact of the

Unified GCC Visa in 2026

The Unified GCC Visa in 2026 is set to Transform

Regional Tourism, Boosting Economic Growth

and Cultural Exchange.

The launch of the Unified GCC Visa in 2026

marks a pivotal moment for tourism across

the Gulf Cooperation Council region. For

the first time, visitors can explore multiple

GCC countries, including Bahrain,

Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and

the United Arab Emirates, using a single

entry permit. This streamlined system

eliminates traditional travel barriers, enhancing

convenience for international

tourists and positioning the region as a

unified, attractive destination. Beyond

encouraging leisure travel, the visa is

expected to drive economic growth by

increasing tourist spending, supporting

local businesses, creating employment

opportunities, and strengthening regional

collaboration and cultural exchange

across member states.


The introduction of the Unified

GCC Visa in 2026 represents a

transformative milestone for

tourism across the Gulf Cooperation

Council region. For decades, policymakers

and industry leaders have

envisioned a more seamless travel

experience linking the member states

of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi

Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

The new visa policy removes traditional

barriers to movement and creates a

The unified GCC tourist

visa represents a strategic

leap forward for regional

tourism integration and

economic growth. By

enhancing the Gulf’s

appeal as a single

destination, we will

attract more international

visitors, increase hotel

occupancy and support

sustainable development

across the tourism

ecosystem.”

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

of Economy and Tourism

unified system that allows travellers

to explore multiple destinations across

the region with a single entry permit.

In doing so this policy sets the stage

for a dramatic expansion of the tourism

sector, regional cooperation and

economic diversification. The unified

visa is expected to generate long-term

economic impacts that extend far

beyond traditional tourism revenues,

influencing employment, foreign investment

and cultural exchange.

Growing Global Interest in GCC

Travel

The first major economic benefit of the

unified visa is a substantial increase in

international arrivals. Historically, each

GCC country managed its own visa

protocol, which created inefficiencies

for travellers seeking to tour more

than one destination. Now, visitors

from key markets in Asia, Europe and

the Americas can access all six GCC

states with one application process.

This convenience removes friction and

positions the region as an attractive

alternative to other multi-destination

regions such as Europe or Southeast

Asia. Early indicators from the region

are promising. Tourism boards have reported

heightened interest from global

tour operators and increased booking

inquiries since the visa announcement.

As flight routes expand and airfares

become more competitive, the unified

visa is expected to attract millions of

additional visitors annually. This influx

of travellers will boost occupancy rates

in hotels, increase revenues for airlines

and stimulate spending across retail,

dining and entertainment sectors.

Another significant economic impact

lies in job creation. With increased

tourist inflows comes higher demand

for services in hospitality, leisure travel,

technology and transportation. Hotels

will need additional staff in guest service,

housekeeping management and

food and beverage operations. Tour

operators will expand their teams to

manage larger tour groups and provide

specialised services. The transportation

sector will also benefit as demand for car

rentals, rideshares and public transport

increases. Local artisans and cultural

guides will find more opportunities to

showcase their crafts and expertise.

Retail businesses along major tourist

corridors will increase hiring to meet

the surge in shoppers. Governments are

also preparing to invest in workforce

training programmes to ensure local

populations are equipped with the

skills needed for a growing tourism

economy. These efforts support longterm

employment growth that benefits

both nationals and expatriate workers

throughout the region.

Key Economic Impacts of the Unified

GCC Visa

●

●

●

●

●

●

A surge in international arrivals as

travellers gain access to all six GCC

states with one streamlined visa.

Increased job creation across hospitality,

aviation, retail, leisure,

transportation and cultural sectors.

Higher levels of foreign direct investment

are driven by a more

predictable, integrated regional

travel framework.

Accelerated development of hotels,

resorts, entertainment districts,

mixed-use projects and major

infrastructure.

Stronger cultural exchange that

encourages longer stays, higher

spending and repeat travel.

Expanded opportunities for SMEs,

including tour operators, restaurants,

boutiques, artisanal businesses

and tech firms.

Foreign direct investment is another

area that stands to gain from the unified

GCC visa. Investors often look for

regions with stable, predictable and

attractive regulatory frameworks. The

unified visa signals a strong commitment

to regional integration and longterm

economic planning. Real estate

developers are already announcing

new mixed-use resort and hospitality

projects designed to cater to international

visitors. The introduction of the

Unified GCC Visa in 2026 ushers in a

transformative era for tourism across

the Gulf region. By simplifying travel

procedures and enabling seamless

cross-border movement, the policy is

set to boost international arrivals, create

jobs, attract foreign investment, and

support small and medium enterprises.

Cultural exchange and longer stays

will further enhance economic impact,

while sustainable tourism initiatives

ensure responsible growth. This unified

approach positions the GCC as a

competitive, integrated, and thriving

destination for global travellers.


Travel News

Dubai Duty Free Announces One-Day Pre-Christmas 25% Discount Event

Dubai Duty Free is celebrating

its 42nd anniversary with a

special one-day pre-Christmas

sale, offering shoppers a 25 per cent

discount across a wide range of products

on 20 December for 24 hours only.

The limited-time promotion will be

available to both departing and arriving

passengers at Dubai International and

Al Maktoum International Airports,

starting at midnight and running until

the end of the day. Major product categories

covered by the discount include

perfumes, cosmetics, liquor, watches,

jewellery, confectionery and leather

goods, while certain items such as gold,

electronics and select fashion brands

are excluded. The offer also applies to

Dubai Duty Free’s popular Millennium

Millionaire and Finest Surprise draw

tickets. Travellers can pre-order items

online via the Click & Collect service

up to 12 hours before departure or

arrival to enjoy the savings.

Liwa International

Festival 2026 Kicks

Off With Spectacular

Drone Display and

Fireworks

The Liwa International Festival

2026 launched in Abu Dhabi’s

Al Dhafra Region with a dazzling

opening ceremony that lit up the desert

skyline. Crowds gathered as the Burj

Khalifa was illuminated in vibrant colours

to mark the start of the festival,

which runs until 3 January and blends

adventure, culture and entertainment

in the iconic Liwa dunes. A highlight of

the launch was the mesmerising drone

show that danced across the night sky,

followed by an impressive fireworks

display that captivated spectators.

Alongside the light spectacle, the festival

features a wide array of activities

including motorsport challenges, cultural

showcases, family attractions and

heritage experiences, drawing visitors

from across the UAE and beyond to

enjoy the winter celebration of sport,

tradition and community spirit.

Dubai Sees Stronger Winter Travel Demand as

Airlines Increase Capacity at DXB and DWC

Dubai Airports has entered the

winter travel season with one of

the most expansive networks in

its history, as Dubai International (DXB)

and Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum

International (DWC) add new airlines

and strengthen overall connectivity.

The expansion reflects rising seasonal

demand and further reinforces Dubai’s

standing as a leading global aviation

hub. Direct travel continues to define

DXB’s winter operations, accounting

for 55 per cent of total passenger

demand. This seasonal uplift follows

a familiar annual pattern shaped by

cooler weather, a packed calendar of

international business, sporting and

entertainment events, residents travelling

abroad for holidays or family

visits, and the steady influx of people

choosing Dubai for medium- and longterm

stays. Europe and Central Asia

are driving notable growth during the

winter period.

Dubai Introduces Contactless Biometric Hotel

Check-In System

Dubai has launched a new contactless

hotel check-in system

that uses biometric and digital

technology to streamline guest arrivals

across the emirate. Approved by His

Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed

bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown

Prince of Dubai, the initiative allows

travellers to complete all check-in

formalities from their mobile phones

before arriving at their hotel. Guests

upload their identification documents

and biometric data once, and this information

remains valid until the ID

expires, enabling quick authentication,

such as a facial scan, for future stays

without repeating the full process. By

bypassing the traditional front desk

procedure, the system significantly

reduces check-in times and enhances

convenience and security for visitors.

The rollout reflects Dubai’s commitment

to smart innovation in hospitality and

aligns with broader efforts to position

the city as a leading global destination.


Al Ain Declared Arab Tourism Capital for 2026

The UAE’s Al Ain has been officially

designated the Capital of Arab

Tourism for 2026 by the Arab

Ministerial Council for Tourism, as

announced at its 28th session in Baghdad,

Iraq. This accolade underscores

Al Ain’s growing global appeal and its

reputation as a leading cultural and

heritage destination. The announcement

was made by a high-level UAE

delegation led by Abdullah Ahmed Al

Saleh, Undersecretary of the Ministry

of Economy and Tourism, on behalf of

Minister Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri.

According to officials, the recognition

reflects the UAE’s strategic vision

in developing its tourism sector and

supports the objectives of the UAE

Tourism Strategy 2031, which seeks

to boost international visitor numbers

and increase tourism’s contribution to

the national economy. Building on its

earlier title as the Gulf Tourism Capital

for 2025.

Ireland Targets UAE

Travellers With Rural

Trails, Greenways and

Shannon Flight Plans

Ireland is stepping up efforts to

attract travellers from the UAE

by spotlighting its scenic rural

destinations, including lush greenways,

walking trails and unique bog

landscapes, Tourism Ireland has announced.

After a hiatus, the national

tourism body will return to the UAE

market in January 2026 to engage

more closely with Gulf visitors and

promote regions beyond Dublin. Officials

are also exploring the possibility

of direct flights to Shannon Airport to

improve access to the west and further

diversify entry points for tourists. The

initiative forms part of a broader strategy

to grow “less mature markets” in

Ireland’s Heartlands, offering slower,

sustainable tourism experiences that

range from historic estates and canals

to the Wild Atlantic Way’s dramatic

coastlines. With strong existing air

links between the UAE and Ireland,

this push aims to boost visitor numbers

and regional tourism growth.

Abu Dhabi Introduces New Digital Platform to

Fast-Track Holiday Home Licensing

Abu Dhabi has rolled out an

upgraded digital platform

designed to streamline the

licensing process for holiday homes,

significantly reducing approval times

for property owners and operators.

Developed by the Department of Culture

and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT

Abu Dhabi), the unified system allows

stakeholders to manage permits and

monitor compliance more efficiently,

cutting through administrative delays

Dubai’s tourism authorities have

unveiled plans for the upcoming

Ramadan in 2026, emphasising

a balance between cultural observance

and an enhanced visitor experience. The

city aims to provide an authentic and

respectful atmosphere for both residents

and tourists, with special initiatives designed

to highlight traditional practices,

local cuisine, and community activities.

Hotels, restaurants, and retail venues

are expected to adjust operating hours

and boosting operational transparency.

This initiative forms part of the emirate’s

Tourism Strategy 2030, which

emphasises digital transformation to

enhance efficiency, strengthen investor

confidence and support growth in

key tourism segments. In addition to

accelerating approvals, the platform

seamlessly integrates with other

government entities to improve data

sharing, revenue management, and

regulatory oversight.

Dubai Outlines Tourism Plans for Ramadan 2026,

Highlights Observance and Visitor Experience

to align with the holy month, ensuring

convenience while respecting fasting

schedules. Cultural events, family-friendly

programmes, and spiritual gatherings will

be promoted to encourage engagement

with the city’s heritage. Authorities also

plan targeted marketing campaigns to

attract international visitors, highlighting

Dubai’s unique blend of tradition and modernity.

These measures reflect the city’s

commitment to maintaining its reputation

as a global cultural and tourism hub.


Wheels

All‐New Genesis GV90

Sets The Standard For Electric Luxury


250 km/h

Top Speed

605 lb‐ft / 820 Nm

Torque

600 hp

Horsepower

Genesis is introducing the all‐new GV90, its flagship full‐size electric

SUV that redefines luxury, performance, and advanced technology.

Positioned above the GV80, the GV90 marks Genesis’s most ambitious

entry into the premium EV SUV segment, competing with top rivals

like the Mercedes‐EQ GLS and BMW iX. The electric‐only SUV is built on

an advanced 800‐volt architecture, offering ultra‐fast charging and a long

driving range that meets the needs of both daily driving and long‐distance

journeys.

The exterior design reflects Genesis’s “Athletic Elegance” philosophy,

featuring a sleek, aerodynamic silhouette, flush door handles, bold LED

lighting, and large alloy wheels that lend a commanding road presence. Its

modern styling balances sophistication with a futuristic aesthetic, signalling

its status as the brand’s new electric flagship.

Inside, the GV90 offers a premium cabin experience featuring cutting-edge

technology and luxurious materials. A spacious interior features large digital

displays for infotainment and driver information, advanced connectivity

options such as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a suite of

driver-assistance systems that include semi-autonomous highway driving

capabilities. Premium seating with comfort‐enhancing functions such as

massage and climate control adds to the upscale ambience.

Genesis plans to launch the GV90 globally in mid‐2026, with orders opening

late 2025. With a blend of strong electric performance, refined comfort,

and intelligent technology, the GV90 aims to set new benchmarks in the

luxury electric SUV space.


Technology


Advanced AI research facilities in the UAE highlight the nation’s growing role in global technological collaboration.

The Great AI Race: The

UAE’s Role as a Bridge

Between the U.S. and

China

The UAE Strengthens its Position as a Strategic

Connector Enabling Cooperation between

Competing Global AI Superpowers.

The global race for supremacy in artificial

intelligence has become a defining

strategic competition, shaping economic

priorities, security frameworks, and

long-term policy agendas worldwide.

The United States and China remain at

the forefront, accelerating investment in

advanced models, semiconductor innovation,

and large-scale data capabilities

that will influence future global power

structures. As the rivalry deepens, the

United Arab Emirates has carved out a

distinctive and influential role as a balanced

intermediary, capable of engaging

with both sides. Through a combination

of diplomatic neutrality, strong economic

partnerships, the UAE has positioned itself

as a trusted connector that supports

cross-border collaboration.


The global contest for leadership

in artificial intelligence has accelerated

dramatically over the

past decade, positioning the United

States and China as the chief competitors

shaping the future of technology,

economic power, and digital governance.

Both nations view advances

in AI, semiconductor manufacturing,

and data infrastructure as essential to

national competitiveness. With their

rivalry intensifying, the United Arab

Emirates has emerged as a strategic

intermediary. Instead of aligning exclusively

with one power, the UAE has

built a model that draws from both

ecosystems while advancing its own

long-term technological ambitions.

This balanced approach has placed the

country in a pivotal position within the

worldwide AI race and has strengthened

its influence across global markets.

A critical component of the UAE’s

ascent is its expanding cooperation

with the United States. The recent

establishment of the US–UAE AI Acceleration

Partnership serves as a

key milestone. Under this framework,

Abu Dhabi will host a significant AI

infrastructure cluster, including a

one-gigawatt data centre that forms

part of a planned five-gigawatt AI

campus. This development, backed by

G42 and major American technology

firms, is positioned to become the

largest AI infrastructure initiative

outside the United States. The UAE

has also integrated its AI governance

with global standards. In late 2024,

the Cabinet approved a national AI

policy that strengthens the country’s

role in international cooperation,

ethics, and regulatory frameworks.

Collective investments from sovereign

funds, regulatory reform, and strong

alignment with US-led technological

standards have reinforced the UAE’s

global credibility.

At the same time, the UAE has retained

and strengthened its long-standing economic

and technological partnership

with China. Bilateral trade continues

to grow, supported by Chinese investments

in logistics, telecommunications,

and AI-driven industrial technologies

within the Emirates. Chinese firms

increasingly use Abu Dhabi as a base

for their expansion across the Middle

East, Africa, and South Asia. The UAE’s

innovation-economy initiatives with

China provide pathways for research

collaboration, infrastructure development,

and commercial technology

deployment. This engagement gives

the UAE access to a complementary

technological ecosystem and reduces

reliance on any single bloc.

At the centre of this strategy lies the

UAE’s self-positioning as a neutral hub

that can facilitate dialogue, standards

alignment, and cooperation among

global technology players. Policymakers

have stressed the dangers of deep

global polarisation, particularly if AI

governance diverges into incompatible

systems. The UAE seeks to offer a

space where international institutions,

companies, and regulators can converge

around shared objectives such as safe

development, model transparency, and

responsible deployment. This position

relies on the country’s regulatory clarity,

openness to global investment, and

diplomatic approach that prioritises

stability and trust.

UAE’s Strategic Approach in Balancing

Global Partnerships

● Major investment and infrastructure

linked to the United States

● The UAE and the US have formalised

the US–UAE AI Acceleration Partnership,

under which Abu Dhabi will

host a vast AI infrastructure cluster.

● The one gigawatt data centre forms

part of a five gigawatt AI campus

backed by G42 and US technology

firms.

● This initiative is expected to become

the largest AI infrastructure project

outside the US. The UAE’s sovereign

funds are directing capital into AI

infrastructure, semiconductors,

and cloud capabilities.

● The nation has also approved an

AI governance policy that aligns

with global standards and supports

responsible development.

Continuing and Expanding Technological

Ties with China

The UAE maintains strong economic

and technology links with China, including

growing trade volumes and

increasing interest from Chinese AI and

digital economy firms seeking a base

in the Emirates. Through cooperation

agreements and joint innovation initiatives,

the UAE benefits from China’s

large market reach and investment

capacity, while integrating parts of the

Artificial intelligence is

not just a technological

shift. It is an economic

and strategic force that

nations must navigate

with responsibility and

vision.”

H.E. Omar Sultan Al Olama

Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence,

Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications

Chinese AI ecosystem into its economy.

UAE leaders promote the country as a

place where global technology actors

can align on shared frameworks. They

argue that polarisation in AI governance

creates risks and fragmentation.

The UAE’s ability to balance relationships

with the United States and

China places it in a rare and influential

position within the global AI landscape.

By combining diplomatic neutrality,

advanced digital infrastructure, and a

strong commitment to innovation, the

country supports collaboration that

might otherwise be constrained by geopolitical

tension. As AI reshapes global

economic power, the UAE is poised

to serve as a stable connector that

promotes progress, resilience, and responsible

technological advancement.


Tech Trends

4 AI Agent Development

Companies to Watch in 2026

As the UAE accelerates its push to become a global AI hub,

autonomous AI agents are evolving from experimental

ideas into business-critical tools.With the AI market projected

to reach AED 170 billion by 2030, growing nearly

45% annually, local innovators are shaping

the next wave of digital transformation.

WHY IT MATTERS

AI Adoption Exploding:

Around 80–97% of UAE

professionals and organisations

report using or experiencing

AI in work and

daily life, well above

global averages.

Investment & Growth:

Nearly three in four

UAE companies have

maintained or increased their

AI investment recently, and

organisations plan to boost

it further by ~31% by 2026.

Skill Demand Focused

on Agentic AI:

Over 80% of UAE firms

prioritise agentic/autonomous

AI systems as a key part

of their future IT strategy,

yet skills gaps are widespread.

Ecosystem Momentum:

Abu Dhabi alone saw

its AI sector expand by

61% in one year, with

150 new AI firms

launching in six months.


1.

APPTUNIX — AUTONOMOU

ENTERPRISE AGENTS

Why watch: Apptunix is gaining

recognition for building AI

agents that automate complex

enterprise workflows, from

logistics planning to support

optimisation. Their practical,

scalable agent architectures

are tailored to real business

needs in logistics, finance, and

services.

2.

BLOCKTUNIX — SECURE,

BLOCKCHAIN-INTEGRATED

AGENTS

Why watch: Blocktunix combines

autonomous AI with

blockchain for trust-anchored

decision agents, a key distinction

in sectors where verification,

compliance, and auditability

matter (e.g., finance,

supply chain).

3.

NEXAPILOT AI —

CONTEXTUAL WORKPLACE

COPILOTS

Why watch: NexaPilot’s agents

act as context-aware digital

coworkers — automating

internal task handling, intelligent

search, and real-time

decision support across business

units.

4.

LOGICWEAVE SYSTEMS

— INDUSTRY-SPECIFIC

AUTONOMOUS AGENTS

Why watch: LogicWeave builds

agents fine-tuned to vertical

industries like healthcare, retail,

and field operations. Their

strength lies in blending

natural language understanding

with automated decision

logic, crucial for sectors with

complex rule sets and compliance

requirements.

THE BIG PICTURE: WHAT’S DRIVING DEMAND IN THE UAE

Massive Market Growth:

The UAE’s AI market is forecast to

grow roughly 15× from 2023 to

2030, reaching around

AED 170 billion, one of the fastest

CAGR trajectories globally.

Broad Adoption & Workforce

Involvement:

With nearly all professionals

using AI tools and organisations

planning major investments,

demand for effective, agentic AI

solutions is set to explode.


Fintech News

MBZUAI and AWS Partner to Advance Applied AI Research

Mohamed bin Zayed University of

Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI)

and Amazon Web Services (AWS)

have entered a multi‐year partnership

to advance applied artificial intelligence

research, strengthen industry‐academic

links, and support skills development

and startup growth across the UAE and

the wider region. The collaboration

will see the two organisations create

a Strategic Research Program focused

on jointly agreed AI priority areas, with

AWS providing cloud infrastructure,

datasets, and technical mentorship, and

MBZUAI contributing faculty expertise

and research talent. It also underpins

initiatives like the GenAI Academy,

which will run practical hackathons for

students, and offers training through

AWS Skill Builder to enhance capabilities

in cloud computing, machine

learning and AI. Eligible startups from

MBZUAI’s Incubation and Entrepreneurship

Centre will gain access to

AWS Activate benefits such as cloud

credits and business mentorship.

Doha Bank Launches

$150M Digital Bond

on London Stock

Exchange

Doha Bank has successfully

issued its first $150 million

Floating Rate Digitally Native

Notes (DNN) on the London Stock

Exchange’s International Securities

Market (ISM), settling on the same

day (T+0) through Euroclear’s Digital

Financial Market Infrastructure (D-FMI).

The digital bond leverages distributed

ledger technology (DLT) to streamline

issuance, distribution, and settlement,

providing decentralised record-keeping

and enhanced operational efficiency

while remaining compatible with

secondary-market services. Standard

Chartered acted as Sole Global Coordinator

and Sole Arranger, overseeing

the transaction’s structuring, execution,

and distribution, with Citi serving as

issuing and paying agent. The issuance

marks one of Qatar’s earliest digitally

native U.S. dollar bonds, aligning with

the country’s broader goal of modernising

capital markets and advancing its

digital transformation agenda.

CBUAE Greenlights 2026 Budget Alongside

Payment Upgrades and Regulatory Updates

The Central Bank of the UAE

(CBUAE) board, chaired by

Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al

Nahyan, has approved its estimated

2026 budget and reviewed major

projects aimed at strengthening

the nation’s financial infrastructure

and digital payments landscape. The

meeting highlighted progress in Emiratisation,

financial system efficiency,

and initiatives to support innovation

and economic competitiveness. Key

Careem Pay has expanded its international

remittance service to

include Canada and Bangladesh,

enabling UAE residents to send money

directly to bank accounts in both countries

at competitive rates and with fast

processing times. UAE users can now

transfer funds in Canadian dollars to

Canada and Bangladeshi taka to Bangladesh,

with limits of up to AED 150,000

per transaction and AED 450,000 monthly

developments include enhancements

to the International Central Securities

Depository and the Real Time Gross

Settlement (RTGS) System, alongside

updates to the “Jisr” platform for central

bank digital currencies (CBDCs),

which connects to the UAE’s Instant

Payment Interface (IPI) and domestic

card scheme Jaywan. The Board also

approved three new regulations as part

of ongoing efforts to support financial

sector growth and governance.

Careem Pay Expands Remittance Service to

Canada and Bangladesh

for Canada, and up to AED 90,000 per

transaction and AED 200,000 monthly

for Bangladesh. Some transfers can be

completed in as little as seven seconds,

and Careem Plus members benefit

from preferential rates. To celebrate

the launch, new customers sending at

least AED 2,000 to Canada can claim

1 % cashback. New corridors expand

Careem Pay’s network to 35+ countries,

supporting expatriates.


Crypto.com and e& Money Partner to Strengthen the UAE Crypto Ecosystem

Crypto.com and e& money have

entered a strategic partnership

to help develop the United Arab

Emirates’ crypto ecosystem through

deep platform integration and shared

services. Under the agreement, e&

money will explore utilising Crypto.

com’s crypto‐as‐a‐service solution,

enabling it to incorporate digital assets

into its treasury functions and product

offerings. The pact’s initial focus is on

Zelo Secures $715M

from IHC to Scale SME

Financing in the Middle

East

Abu Dhabi‐based private‐credit

platform Zelo has received a

$715 million capital allocation

from its parent company, International

Holding Company (IHC), to expand

supply‐chain and SME financing across

the Middle East, representing one of

the region’s largest commitments in

B2B financing. The funding will enhance

liquidity access for small and

medium‐sized enterprises by converting

receivables owed by government

bodies, major corporates and regional

businesses into financeable assets,

helping tackle the structural $250 billion

credit shortfall facing SMEs in the

Middle East. Zelo’s invoice‐financing

model offers near‐instant working

capital, enabling suppliers to reinvest

in growth, take on larger contracts

and strengthen operations. With this

capital boost, Zelo aims to accelerate

its deployment strategy and target

$1 billion in gross financing volume

by 2026, broadening private‐credit

infrastructure in the region.

enhancing trade execution by providing

unified access to global liquidity

via the Crypto.com Exchange, one of

the world’s leading USD‐supporting

cryptocurrency trading venues. Both

firms also plan to investigate potential

integrations for custody and payment

solutions. The collaboration boosts

crypto-enabled financial infrastructure

in the UAE’s evolving digital finance

landscape.

HSBC UAE and Presight Deepen AI Collaboration

to Transform Financial Services

HSBC UAE and Abu Dhabi‐based

AI specialist Presight have signed

a Memorandum of Understanding

to jointly develop and implement

advanced artificial intelligence solutions

across key financial services

functions, accelerating AI adoption

in the banking sector. The agreement,

formalised during Abu Dhabi Finance

Week 2025, focuses on enhancing risk

management, operational efficiency,

regulatory compliance and client insights

The Emirates Growth Fund (EGF) and

Abu Dhabi’s global tech ecosystem

Hub71 have signed a strategic memorandum

to strengthen support for UAE

small and medium enterprises (SMEs)

and growth‐stage companies, aligning

with national economic diversification

goals. The agreement, formalised during

Abu Dhabi Finance Week 2025, sets out a

coordinated framework to deploy growth

capital, open up commercial pathways

by leveraging Presight’s technological

capabilities alongside HSBC’s global

banking expertise. Key areas include

intelligent risk and compliance, human

capital intelligence, client acquisition

strategies and real‐time analytics for

senior decision‐making. The partnership

reinforces both organisations’

commitment to innovation and supports

broader efforts to strengthen digital

transformation and resilience within

the UAE’s financial ecosystem.

Emirates Growth Fund and Hub71 Partner to

Boost UAE SME Growth

for high‐potential ventures. By combining

EGF’s growth equity resources with

Hub71’s dynamic founder‐focused ecosystem,

the partnership aims to accelerate

the performance within the UAE. Signed

by EGF CEO Khalifa Al Hajeri and Hub71

CEO Ahmad Ali Alwan, the collaboration

reflects a shared commitment to foster

a robust pipeline of scalable enterprises

contributing to the nation’s long‐term

economic development.


Interview

Inside the Future of

Middle East Warehousing

and Logistics

As automation, AI, and sustainability rapidly redefine warehousing and logistics

across the Middle East, industry leaders are being challenged to rethink how supply

chains are designed, operated, and scaled. With the region positioning itself as a

global trade and distribution hub, strategic investments in resilient, technology-led

infrastructure are becoming critical to long-term competitiveness.

To gain deeper insight into what lies ahead, Finance World spoke with Rami

Younes, General Manager, Swisslog Middle East, to discuss the opportunities shaping

2026, the challenges faced in an evolving market, and how advanced automation,

partnerships, and digital transformation are enabling the next generation of smart,

sustainable warehouses across the region.

standards with local delivery expertise,

which is essential in markets with diverse

regulatory and operational requirements.

In 2026, partnerships will increasingly

focus on software integration, AI-enabled

optimisation, and scalable deployment

models that shorten time to value.

Q: What will be your primary focus

areas and strategic priorities for 2026?

Food and beverage, grocery, general

merchandise, and fashion remain priority

sectors due to dense SKU profiles, tight

fulfilment windows, and labour pressure.

These industries benefit most from automation

that delivers accuracy above 99%

and maximises space utilisation, often

up to 85% of available floor area. At the

same time, we see growing demand from

3PL, pharma, and industrial production,

where pallet automation, shuttle systems,

and cube storage address both scale and

Q: What opportunities do you foresee

for 2026, and how do you plan

to leverage them?

By 2026, the biggest opportunity lies

in how the region is reshaping supply

chains around resilience, localisation,

and food security. Governments are encouraging

local production through incentives,

while sectors such as F&B and

grocery continue to grow as consumers

prioritise freshness and availability. This

creates strong demand for automation

that delivers consistent throughput and

labour independence. High-density storage,

modular systems, and software-led

orchestration allow operators to scale

With the Middle East

logistics market

expanding and robotics

set to surpass $714

million by 2030,

early investment in

adaptable automation

will help companies

manage volatility,

protect margins, and

meet rising service

expectations.”

without overbuilding capacity.

Q: What major challenges did you encounter

this year, and how did you

address them?

The main challenge has been economic

uncertainty, which slowed decision-making

and extended approval cycles for capital

investments. Rather than pushing

large, one-time projects, we focused on

supporting customers through phased

automation and retrofit strategies. This

allowed operators to improve throughput,

accuracy, and space utilisation without

taking on unnecessary risk. A strong

installed base across the region helped

balance order intake, as many customers

chose to expand or optimise existing

systems instead of starting from scratch.

This approach aligned well with current

market conditions and reinforced longterm

partnerships built on operational

continuity rather than short-term volume.

Q: Can you elaborate on your strategic

partnerships this year and plans for

next year?

Being part of the KUKA Group gives us

access to a global automation ecosystem

spanning robotics, software, and advanced

engineering. That depth is critical

as projects become more complex and

software-driven. At the regional level,

we work closely with local partners to

support specialised subprojects, integration,

and on-the-ground execution. This

hybrid model combines global technology

The priority for 2026

is to help customers

standardise complexity

through modular

systems that support

omnichannel fulfilment

without duplicating

inventory.”

compliance requirements.

Q: Are there plans to explore new

markets or introduce new products

or applications in 2026?

Saudi Arabia and the UAE remain core

growth markets, supported by large-scale

logistics and manufacturing investment. At

the same time, we are actively exploring

expansion into Oman, where modernisation

of supply chains is accelerating. On

the technology side, autonomous mobile

robots and AI-driven item picking will play

a larger role within integrated intralogistics

environments. These technologies

add flexibility to dynamic warehouses

and support faster deployment compared

to fixed infrastructure. The focus is not

on standalone products, but on combining

robotics, storage, and software

into scalable applications that evolve as


demand changes.

Q: How is your company approaching

sustainability, digital transformation,

or AI adoption in preparation

for 2026?

AI-driven automation is becoming central

to how warehouses operate, moving from

reactive execution to proactive optimisation.

Decision intelligence now supports

demand forecasting, dynamic slotting,

and predictive maintenance, improving

throughput while reducing downtime.

From a sustainability perspective, Swisslog

focuses on measurable performance gains

through regenerative-energy pallet cranes,

low-power robotics, and compact storage

designs that reduce building footprints and

energy demand. Many systems operate

below 0.1 kW per hour and can integrate

with renewable energy sources. Customers

increasingly track metrics such as kWh

per order, energy per pick, and waste

reduction, using automation to meet

sustainability targets without increasing

operating costs. Digital transformation is

less about adding technology and more

about orchestration, using software to

align automated and manual workflows

into a single, measurable performance

framework.

RAMI YOUNES

General Manager,

Swisslog Middle East


Real Estate


Investors queue digitally to secure fractional ownership in Dubai’s fastest-selling tokenised properties.

Sold Out in Minutes:

What Hyper-Demand for

Tokenised Dubai Real

Estate Tells Us

Dubai’s Tokenised Real Estate Boom

Demonstrates Digital Innovation, and

Unprecedented Global Investor Demand.

Dubai’s real estate market is entering a

transformative phase as tokenised property

offerings attract unprecedented attention.

In 2025, multiple projects sold

out within minutes, highlighting growing

investor appetite for digital, fractional

ownership. By allowing individuals to

buy shares in high-value properties with

minimal capital, tokenisation is lowering

traditional barriers and expanding access

to a global audience. The combination

of blockchain technology, fast settlement,

and transparent record-keeping

is reshaping the investment landscape.

These developments not only reflect market

innovation but also signal a broader

shift towards a more inclusive, efficient,

and digitally driven real estate ecosystem

in Dubai and beyond.


The recent record-breaking sellouts

of tokenised real estate

offerings in Dubai reflect more

than a temporary trend. They signal

a structural shift in how property is

bought, owned and invested within one

of the world’s most dynamic real estate

markets. In 2025, Dubai’s pioneering

tokenisation programme, led by the

Dubai Land Department through the

Prypco Mint platform, has seen multiple

property offerings fully subscribed in

minutes or hours, with waiting lists

swelling into the tens of thousands and

investors from dozens of countries participating.

This unprecedented appetite

offers important insights into investor

behaviour, market innovation and the

future of real-world asset ownership.

At the heart of this demand is fractional

ownership, the concept of dividing

a property into digital tokens that

represent ownership shares recorded

on a blockchain. Traditional real estate

investment often requires large capital

outlays, lengthy due diligence and slow

settlement processes. Tokenization

transforms this by allowing investors

to buy pieces of a property for as little

as AED 2,000, radically lowering barriers

to entry for retail and first-time

investors alike.

The pilot series began with a two-bedroom

Business Bay apartment that sold

out in under 24 hours to 224 investors,

drawing participants from at least

44 nationalities. Shortly thereafter,

a one-bedroom in Mohammed bin

Rashid City was snapped up in just 1

minute and 58 seconds, and a villa in

Dubailand’s Rukan Community sold

out in under five minutes, each time

with long waiting lists.

Several Factors Explain Why Tokenised

Property has Resonated

so Strongly with Investors:

Accessibility and Inclusion

Tokenised offerings democratise access

to a market once dominated by

well-capitalised investors. By lowering

minimum investment thresholds and

simplifying procedures, these digital

shares give individuals a credible stake

in Dubai’s property market without

needing to acquire a full asset outright.

A significant share of early buyers were

entering Dubai real estate for the first

time, suggesting the model is broadening

the investor base rather than merely

redistributing existing wealth.

Speed and Efficiency

Blockchain technology enables near-instant

settlement and automated record-keeping,

eliminating much of

the paperwork and friction associated

Amid rapid technological

advancements and the

increasing reliance on

digital solutions, real

estate tokenisation

is emerging as a

revolutionary tool driving

fundamental change in

the real estate sector. This

approach simplifies and

enhances buying, selling

and investment processes,

supports innovation,

promotes transparency

and enables a wider pool

of investors to participate

in large‐scale real estate

projects in Dubai.”

H.E. Eng. Marwan Ahmed Bin Ghalita,

Director General, Dubai Muncipality

with traditional property transactions.

This efficiency enhances transparency,

reduces costs and mitigates opportunities

for fraud, which appeals to both

novice and seasoned investors.

Global Reach

While current participation in Dubai’s

pilot has been limited to UAE residents,

interest has come from across Asia,

Europe, the Middle East and beyond.

The protocol-agnostic nature of tokenised

assets means that, in future

iterations, international buyers could

participate without the customary

constraints of cross-border property

investment. This global demand is

reflected in the diverse nationalities

of early participants.

Alignment with Strategic Goals

The real estate tokenisation initiative

aligns with Dubai’s broader economic

and digital transformation strategies,

including the Dubai Real Estate Sector

Strategy 2033 and the Dubai Economic

Agenda D33. These frameworks prioritise

innovation, digitisation and inclusive

economic growth. The government

anticipates a tokenised market value

of AED 60 billion by 2033, highlighting

tokenisation’s long-term strategic role

in the emirate’s property ecosystem.

Market psychology and speculation

The rapid sell-outs create a feedback

loop. Record-breaking demand attracts

media attention, which in turn

brings more investors onto wait lists

and future offerings. Fear of missing

out is common in a market where

opportunities are snapped up almost

instantaneously. While this can spur

participation, measured regulatory

oversight is essential to ensure markets

remain resilient and transparent.

The sell-out of tokenised real estate

underscores a profound shift in property

investment. Digital platforms, fractional

ownership, and global accessibility are

transforming the way investors engage

with the market, lowering barriers

and opening opportunities to a wider

audience. While this evolution offers

efficiency, transparency, and growth

potential, it also introduces new risks

that require careful regulation. As Dubai

and other markets embrace this model,

the future of real estate investment is

set to become more inclusive, dynamic,

and digitally driven.


Real Estate News

Alpago Reveals AED 95M Curve DiLusso Ultra-Luxury Villa on Palm Jumeirah

Alpago Design & Build has introduced

its newest ultra-luxury

villa, Curve DiLusso, on Dubai’s

prestigious Palm Jumeirah, marking a

significant milestone in the developer’s

luxury residential portfolio. Priced at

approximately AED 95 million (about

$26 million), the three-level beachfront

home spans around 7,496 sq ft, with

architectural distinction and meticulous

craftsmanship at its core. Designed to

evoke fluid movement and seamless

indoor-outdoor living, the villa features

a dominant grand spiral staircase. Luxurious

amenities include a super master

bedroom, two additional master suites,

guest accommodations, a private cinema

and a state-of-the-art gym. Its refined

interior palette blends premium materials

such as porcelain tiles, oak parquet

flooring and sculpted stone, reflecting a

sophisticated yet warm aesthetic.

Dubai Luxury Homes

Market Sees 24.4%

Rise in Transactions

Dubai’s prime residential property

market has delivered robust

performance in 2025, with highvalue

transactions for homes priced

above AED 10 million (about $2.72

million) rising 24.4 per cent year-on-year,

according to Savills Middle East’s latest

Dubai Prime Residential Market report.

By mid-November, nearly 6,000 luxury

property deals had been completed,

underscoring sustained demand from

international and regional buyers drawn

by the emirate’s stable political landscape,

favourable business conditions and taxefficient

framework. Off-plan sales were

particularly strong, accounting for around

73 per cent of all prime transactions, with

villas capturing the largest share as buyers

sought spacious, long-term family homes.

While properties in the AED 10–20 million

range dominate activity, interest at the

higher end of the market also expanded,

signalling broad confidence in Dubai’s

ultra-luxury residential segment.

Al Rabwa Real Estate Launches First UAE

Project, Al Qasimia Future 6, in Sharjah

Al Rabwa Real Estate, a newly

formed sister company of Ellington

Properties focused on industrial

and commercial land communities, has

officially entered the UAE market with

its inaugural development, Al Qasimia

Future 6, in Industrial Area 6, Al Qasimia

City, Sharjah. The project is strategically

positioned within one of Sharjah’s most

sought-after industrial corridors. Investors

benefit from a ready-to-build advantage,

enabling construction once 50 per cent

of payments are made, plus a two-year

payment plan and freehold ownership for

all nationalities, enhancing entry flexibility

and long-term asset growth potential.

Dubai Commercial Property Sales Surge Nearly

80% Ahead Of Market Shift

Dubai’s commercial real estate

market recorded a sharp upswing

in activity, with sales value rising

by nearly 80 per cent over the past year,

signalling strong investor confidence

across the sector. Transaction volumes

also increased markedly, driven by

sustained demand for office and retail

assets as businesses continue to expand

their regional footprint. Offices accounted

for the largest share of deals, supported

by limited availability of high-quality

space and stable rental performance,

while retail properties benefited from

resilient consumer activity. Despite the

robust momentum, market analysts

suggest the sector is approaching a

period of adjustment. A pipeline of new,

premium office developments expected

later in the decade could place pressure

on older stock, potentially creating a

more segmented market. In the near

term, however, favourable economic

conditions and constrained supply are

expected to support continued growth

and transactional activity.


Dubai Villa Owners Set for Strong Gains as Market Moves into 2026

Villa owners in Dubai are uniquely

positioned to benefit as the city’s

residential market heads into

2026, according to industry experts.

Strong demand from families and

high-net-worth buyers is outstripping

the limited supply of villas and townhouses,

pushing prices higher than for

apartments and creating significant

value for current owners. Brokers

report notable year-on-year increases

in both sale prices and rental rates,

UAE Luxury Market

Accelerates on Branded

Residences Boom

Branded residences are rapidly

reshaping the UAE’s high‐end

property market, driving significant

growth in sales, prices and development

activity across key emirates.

According to CBRE’s latest research,

Dubai remains the most established

market, with transaction volumes up

sharply and buyers paying premiums

far above non‐branded homes, underscoring

strong global demand and

investor confidence. In Abu Dhabi,

branded homes are gaining traction

through scarcity and exclusivity, with

sales rising at a faster pace, while Ras

Al Khaimah is emerging as the fastest‐growing

frontier for these prestige

projects. Wealth migration, robust economic

fundamentals and the appeal of

world‐class lifestyle brands are major

catalysts behind this surge. With major

new launches planned through 2030 and

global luxury names deepening their

presence, branded living is expected

to play a central role in the future of

the UAE’s luxury real estate landscape.

with premium communities commanding

some of the highest returns.

While the broader market continues to

grow, apartments are becoming more

balanced as new units are delivered,

but larger family homes remain scarce.

Analysts predict steady, mature growth

rather than a sharp boom, with villa

and townhouse districts expected to

outperform due to persistent demand,

constrained development, limited new

supply, and rising end-user interest.

Binghatti and Mercedes‐Benz Unveil AED 30B

Branded City Project in Dubai

Dubai developer Binghatti and

luxury carmaker Mercedes‐Benz

have revealed plans for a landmark

AED 30 billion master‐planned

community, set to become the world’s

first Mercedes-Benz-branded city in

Dubai’s Meydan district. The development,

named Mercedes‐Benz Places,

Binghatti City, will span over 10 million

square feet and marks Binghatti’s entry

into fully integrated urban planning,

following its earlier branded project.

Mubadala and Barings Forge $500M Global Real

Estate Debt Alliance

Abu Dhabi’s sovereign investor

Mubadala Investment Company

has teamed up with global investment

manager Barings to establish

a $500 million global real estate debt

partnership, marking a significant

expansion into private credit markets.

Mubadala will co‐invest alongside

MassMutual, Barings’ parent firm, while

Barings will lead management of the

joint venture, focusing on senior and

subordinated real estate loans across

key regions including the United States,

Europe and Asia‐Pacific. The alliance

builds on a long‐standing strategic relationship

between the two firms and

draws on Barings’ extensive real estate

debt platform, which oversees over

$30 billion in assets. The collaboration

is designed to diversify Mubadala’s

real estate credit exposure and tap

growing demand for flexible financing

solutions, reinforcing Barings’ position

as a major player in global property

debt markets.


Sports


Fans enjoy the action as brands compete for attention at major UAE sports events.

Why Sports Sponsorship

Has Become the UAE’s

Most Competitive

Branding Space

Sports sponsorship in the UAE has become a hot

space where brands fight for attention.

Sports sponsorship in the UAE has developed

into one of the most competitive

and strategically significant branding

arenas in the region. Companies across

aviation, energy, consumer goods, and

international markets are investing heavily

to associate their brands with prominent

teams, star athletes, and high-profile

sporting events. This surge reflects

broader economic ambitions, evolving

consumer behaviour, and the growing

understanding that sports offer unique

opportunities to connect with audiences

on emotional, digital, and global levels. Beyond

traditional advertising, sponsorship

provides immersive engagement, brand

loyalty, and international recognition. As

a result, sports sponsorship is not only

redefining marketing strategies in the UAE.


In the UAE, sports sponsorship has

evolved from a niche marketing

tactic into one of the most competitive

and strategic branding arenas

in the region. Major companies across

aviation, energy, consumer goods

and even international entrants are

investing heavily to associate their

brands with sporting teams, athletes,

and global events. This shift reflects

broader economic ambitions, changing

consumer behaviours and a recognition

that sports offer unique opportunities

to connect with audiences emotionally,

digitally and globally. Understanding

why this market has become so contested

reveals much about the UAE’s

branding priorities and the future of

marketing in the Middle East.

Global Reach and Brand Visibility

UAE brands such as Emirates and

Etihad Airways have long used sports

sponsorship to extend their international

footprints. Their investments

span premier football clubs, global

tournaments and elite racing teams,

generating visibility across millions

of viewers worldwide. For example,

Emirates’ long-term sponsorship of

Arsenal Football Club and its Emirates

Stadium integrates the airline’s

brand into commentary, broadcast

coverage and fan engagement across

continents, effectively converting

sporting success into global brand

exposure. These partnerships are not

merely logo placements but serve as

long-term platforms to embed brands

into global sporting culture.

For UAE brands, sports sponsorship

is a way to define themselves beyond

geographical boundaries and traditional

advertising channels. In a world where

spectatorship is global and live sports

attract diverse audiences, sponsorship

provides reach that is difficult to

match through conventional media.

By aligning with well‐followed teams

or internationally recognised events,

sponsors amplify awareness among

key demographic segments and reinforce

brand positioning in markets

that matter for tourism, business and

consumption.

Emotional Engagement with

Consumers

Sports spark passion and loyalty that

commercial messages struggle to

achieve through typical advertising.

Fans form deep emotional connections

with teams and athletes, and when

brands are associated with these entities,

they benefit from that affinity. Sponsorship

allows brands to become part

of the fan experience rather than mere

observers, integrating into match‐day

atmospheres, fan merchandise, digital

campaigns and live activations.

In the UAE, this emotional engagement

has become especially valuable

as brands compete to connect with

a young, diverse, and digitally savvy

population. Sponsorship deals often

include fan engagement initiatives,

experiential marketing and digital activations

that reinforce brand narratives

and foster loyalty. Today’s consumers

expect interactive experiences rather

Sport must be accessible

to everyone because it

strengthens community

wellbeing, inspires youth

and attracts investment

that drives economic and

social development in the

UAE.”

H.E. Ghanim Al Hajeri,

Undersecretary, UAE Ministry of Sports

than passive exposure, and sports

sponsorship provides the stage for

these deeper interactions.

Strategic Alignment with National

and Economic Goals

The UAE government has prioritised

economic diversification, global branding

and tourism growth as part of its

long‐term strategies. Sports sponsorship

dovetails with these objectives

by attracting international events

and strengthening the country’s reputation

as a dynamic destination for

business and leisure. By supporting

major events such as international

cricket, golf championships and global

tournaments, sponsors contribute to

the sports ecosystem while enhancing

the nation’s global profile.

This strategic value underpins why local

corporations and government‐linked

entities invest significantly in sports.

Beyond direct commercial returns,

sponsorships help project soft power,

promote national identity and attract

foreign investment. As the UAE continues

to host significant international

competitions and expand its sports

infrastructure, the competition among

brands to associate with these high‐impact

platforms intensifies.

Economic Value and Measurable

Returns

Sports sponsorships are increasingly

seen as investments that deliver measurable

business outcomes. Brands

are no longer content with simple logo

exposure; they are seeking partnerships

that drive consumer engagement, lead

generation and measurable return on

investment. Modern sponsorship agreements

often include digital analytics,

audience insights and targeted activations

that provide brands with data on

reach, engagement and conversions.

This shift toward outcome‐oriented

partnerships increases competition

for high‐visibility opportunities that

promise tangible business value.

Sports sponsorship in the UAE has

become a highly competitive branding

space because it offers unrivalled global

reach, emotional engagement with

consumers and strategic alignment

with national economic goals. As the

market continues to grow and evolve,

competition will only intensify, driving

greater creativity, innovation and investment

in the world of sports branding.


Sports News

Dubai Plans 250 Events, 50% Club Revenue Boost in $5B Sports Plan 2033

Dubai has unveiled its Sports Sector

Strategic Plan 2033, a comprehensive

blueprint designed

to transform the emirate into a leading

global sports hub and significantly

boost its economic impact. Central

to the strategy is the addition of 250

new sporting events annually, aiming

to attract over 4 million spectators and

elevate Dubai’s international sports

profile. The plan also targets a major

commercial shift for sports clubs, to

increase their revenue from commercial

activities to 50 per cent of total income

by 2033, up from roughly 15 per cent

today, supported by financial incentives

and new performance‐driven frameworks.

The strategy, built around four

pillars, Events, Clubs, Community and

Talent, includes 19 programmes and 75

initiatives to enhance infrastructure,

drive participation.

UAE Boxing Federation, World Boxing Council

Sign Cooperation Agreement

The UAE Boxing Federation has

formalised a major cooperation

agreement with the World Boxing

Council (WBC) and the Eurasian

Boxing Parliament (EBP) to enhance

the country’s boxing landscape. The

partnership aims to develop and host

a series of high-profile championships

and sporting events in the UAE over the

coming period. In a further strategic

move, the federation has joined forces

with Sports Service Professional to

organise and manage its tournaments,

ensuring professional execution and

wider reach. The announcement was

made during a press conference in Abu

Dhabi, attended by the presidents and

chairmen of all parties involved. During

the event, the WBC President signed

the official document confirming the

federation’s membership, granting it

exclusive authority to oversee boxing

activities locally, with Abu Dhabi slated

to host the annual WBC conference.

UAE Ready to Surprise

Pakistan in Key U19

Asia Cup clash

The United Arab Emirates Under-19

cricket team faced Pakistan

in a crucial Asia Cup Group A

match in Dubai, knowing a win would

secure a semi-final spot. UAE captain

Yayin Kiran Rai expressed confidence,

stressing that preparation, energy in

the field, and discipline could help

his side upset a strong Pakistani outfit

and reach the last four. The hosts had

bounced back from a heavy opening

loss to India with a convincing victory

over Malaysia, highlighted by Ayaan

Misbah’s big score, and were determined

to challenge Pakistan’s balanced squad.

Pakistan, however, proved too strong

in the end, securing a comprehensive

70-run win with contributions from

both bat and ball.

QSI to Acquire Belgian Club KAS Eupen in Strategic Football Expansion

Qatar Sports Investments (QSI),

the group best known for owning

Paris Saint-Germain, has

agreed a deal to acquire Belgian football

club KAS Eupen, marking another

step in its expanding European

footprint. The agreement, formalised

through a Memorandum of Understanding

and subject to regulatory

approval, gives QSI immediate control

over Eupen’s sporting operations, with

a full takeover of commercial and

administrative activities set to follow.

The club, currently competing in

Belgium’s Challenger Pro League, has

established itself as a respected team

under the Aspire Zone Foundation. QSI

plans to leverage its global expertise

to strengthen Eupen’s performance


model, develop its youth academy, enhance

infrastructure and expand commercial

prospects. Chairman Nasser

Al-Khelaïfi said the acquisition aligns

with the group’s long-term vision to

build a competitive football structure.

Emirates and World

Rugby Strengthen

Global Partnership,

Extended to 2035

Emirates and World Rugby have

agreed a landmark extension

of their long-standing partnership,

strengthening one of sport’s

most enduring global sponsorships

through to 2035. Under the new deal,

the Dubai-based airline becomes World

Rugby’s first-ever Platinum Partner

and continues as Principal Partner

for both men’s and women’s Rugby

World Cups, covering tournaments in

Australia, the United States and beyond,

along with qualifying events for

all World Cup competitions. Emirates

will retain prominent pitch-side branding

at every Rugby World Cup and on

World Rugby’s digital platforms, while

match officials will continue wearing

the airline’s “Fly Better” logo.

UAE Wins Badminton

World Cup

The UAE secured the Outdoor

Badminton World Cup – National

Teams Relay Race title after defeating

China 60–54 in a closely fought

final held on Khorfakkan Beach, marking

a significant achievement for the host

nation. The UAE national team was

crowned by Sheikh Saeed bin Saqr Al

Qasimi, Deputy Chief of the Sharjah

Ruler’s Office in Khorfakkan, at the

championship held under the patronage

of H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Salem

bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of

Sharjah. Brazil claimed the men’s triples

title, while China emerged victorious

in the women’s triples category. The

closing ceremony featured the presentation

of the tournament shield and

honours for organisers, partners and

supporting entities.

UAE President Launches Games of the Future 2025

His Highness Sheikh Mohamed

bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President

of the United Arab Emirates,

officially inaugurated the Games of

the Future Abu Dhabi 2025, held at

the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition

Centre from 18–23 December, in the

presence of Azerbaijani President

Ilham Aliyev and distinguished guests.

The opening ceremony underlines the

UAE’s ambition to lead in the emerging

field of hybrid sports. Sheikh Mohamed

highlighted the event’s role in fostering

global youth engagement and friendly

competition. More than 850 athletes

from over 60 countries will compete

in this cutting-edge format, blending

athletic skill with digital prowess.

Games Of The Future 2025 To Be Hosted In Abu

Dhabi

The Games of the Future Abu

Dhabi 2025, held under the patronage

of His Highness Sheikh

Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and

powered by ADNOC, will run from

18 to 23 December at the Abu Dhabi

National Exhibition Centre, following

an opening ceremony on 17 December.

The global event introduces a distinctive

format that brings together physical

sport and competitive gaming, allowing

teams to compete first in digital

challenges before progressing to live,

real-world contests, with combined

scores deciding the winners. Organised

by ASPIRE in collaboration with Phygital

International, the event reflects

Abu Dhabi’s growing role in shaping

the future of sport, innovation and

youth engagement on a global stage.

Open Masters Games And the UAE Basketball

Association Forge a Strategic Partnership

The Higher Organising Committee

of the Open Masters Games

Abu Dhabi has entered into a

partnership agreement with the UAE

Basketball Association to strengthen

collaboration ahead of the global

sporting event, scheduled to take

place in Abu Dhabi in February 2026.

The Games are expected to welcome

thousands of athletes from across the

world, highlighting the emirate’s growing

stature on the international sports

calendar. The agreement was signed by

Abdul Latif Al Fardan, President of the

UAE Basketball Federation, and Aref

Hamad Al Awani, Secretary General of

the Abu Dhabi Sports Council. Under

the partnership, both sides will work

together to form participating teams

in coordination with local clubs and

resident communities across the UAE.


Healthcare


Healthcare professionals use digital platforms to streamline licensing and advanced care delivery in the UAE.

Why the UAE’s Unified

Licensing Platform Is

a Game Changer for

Healthcare Integration

The UAE’s Unified Licensing System is

Reshaping Regional Healthcare, Efficiency, and

Innovation Across Borders.

The UAE’s Unified Licensing Platform

marks a transformative step in regional

healthcare integration, simplifying regulatory

processes and enabling seamless

collaboration across borders. Historically,

disparate licensing requirements and

administrative hurdles limited workforce

mobility and delayed the deployment of

specialised care. By centralising credential

verification, standardising professional

competencies, and streamlining approvals,

the platform accelerates access to skilled

clinicians and supports advanced research

initiatives. It also facilitates the adoption

of digital health technologies and telemedicine

solutions, ensuring high-quality

care. Ultimately, this platform positions

the UAE as a hub for innovative, and

patient-focused healthcare in the region.


The UAE’s Unified Licensing

Platform represents a pivotal

development for regional healthcare

integration, offering a streamlined

regulatory framework that reduces

administrative friction and fosters

cross-border collaboration. Historically,

healthcare providers operating across

the Gulf Cooperation Council faced a

patchwork of licensing regimes, each

with distinct credentialing requirements,

renewal cycles and compliance

obligations. The unified platform diminishes

these barriers by centralising

licensure processes, enabling

regulators and providers to operate

from a common procedural baseline

while retaining national oversight on

clinical standards and patient safety.

A central advantage of the platform

is its capacity to accelerate workforce

mobility. Shortages of specialist clinicians

across the region have impeded

the delivery of advanced care; the platform

mitigates this by enabling faster

verification of credentials and expedited

issuance of permits for foreign-trained

practitioners. Health systems can thus

redeploy personnel where demand is

acute, sustaining specialist services

in underserved areas and supporting

emergency surge capacity during crises.

For multi-national hospital networks

and integrated care providers, this

reduces recruitment lead times and

decreases reliance on costly locum

arrangements.

Equally consequential is the impact

on clinical trials and research collaboration.

The unified licensing mechanism

simplifies the administrative burden of

establishing multi-site studies across

member jurisdictions. Investigators and

sponsors benefit from a predictable

approval pathway, which shortens the

timeline from protocol finalisation to

patient enrollment. This positions the

UAE as an attractive hub for regional

clinical research, enhancing access

to diverse patient populations and

accelerating translational research

that addresses conditions endemic to

the region.

Driving Digital Health and Technology

Integration

From a health-technology perspective,

the platform catalyses digital transformation.

Medical device manufacturers

and digital health companies often

confront protracted certification and

staff credential checks when deploying

solutions across borders. Unified

licensing supports interoperability by

aligning standards for professional

competencies and regulatory oversight,

facilitating the rapid adoption of

telemedicine, remote monitoring and

AI-driven diagnostic tools. Consistent

licensing protocols also reduce regulatory

duplication, lowering the time

and cost required to scale health-tech

innovations regionally.

Regulatory predictability engenders

investment. Private equity and strategic

investors evaluate market-access

risk as a core determinant of capital

allocation; a unified licensing regime

reduces jurisdictional uncertainty and

shortens the path to revenue. Healthcare

entrepreneurs gain confidence

to scale operations regionally, from

speciality clinics to platform-enabled

care models. Public-private partnerships

become easier to structure when

licensing timelines are known and

harmonised, enabling collaborative

financing of infrastructure projects and

value-based care initiatives that require

multi-jurisdictional coordination.

Quality assurance remains central

to the platform’s value proposition. By

standardising competency benchmarks

and continuing professional development

requirements, the platform raises

the baseline quality of practice across

participating states. This standardisation

facilitates mutual recognition

of accreditation from educational

institutions and professional bodies,

while preserving the capacity of local

regulators to enforce discipline and

safety. Patients stand to benefit from

improved continuity of care and clearer

channels for cross-border referrals,

particularly in specialised fields such

as oncology and complex surgery.

Enhancing Operational Efficiency

and Resource Allocation

Operational efficiency is another tangible

benefit. Administrative overheads

associated with repeated documentation,

separate portals and jurisdiction-specific

audits are substantially

reduced. Regulators can reallocate

inspection and compliance resources

from routine credential verification

to targeted oversight and clinical

governance initiatives. Health systems

gain administrative efficiencies

that translate into lower overheads,

By launching the national

licensing platform,

we look forward to

establishing a globally

leading health system for

a healthier community,

underpinned by an

integrated, digitally

governed system

supported by qualified

and specialised

competencies.”

H.E. Dr. Amin Hussain Al Amiri, Assistant

Undersecretary for the Health Regulation

Sector, Ministry of Health and Prevention,

UAE

allowing greater investment in clinical

services, infrastructure and patient

experience improvements that directly

affect outcomes.

The UAE’s Unified Licensing Platform

is transforming regional healthcare by

simplifying administrative processes,

and enhancing workforce mobility.

Robust governance will be key to maximising

its impact, positioning the UAE

as a model for integrated, high-quality

healthcare in MENA and beyond.


Healthcare News

Mubadala Bio Boosts UAE Pharma Sector with New Facility

Mubadala Bio has officially

inaugurated a cutting‐edge

high‐potency pharmaceutical

manufacturing facility in Abu Dhabi

under its Bioventure Healthcare subsidiary,

alongside the launch of three

advanced oncology medicines in the

UAE. The facility is specifically designed

to manufacture high‐potency

drugs, including cancer and hormone

therapies, adhering to stringent international

safety and regulatory standards.

By producing critical medications

locally, Mubadala Bio aims to reduce

reliance on imports, enhance national

drug security, and ensure a consistent

supply of essential treatments. The

initial oncology medicines include

Lenalidomide for myeloma, Pomalidomide,

now locally manufactured in the

UAE for the first time, and Sunitinib

for select advanced cancers.

NMC Healthcare Joins

Global Research Network

NMC Healthcare, a major private

healthcare provider in the UAE,

has joined the TriNetX global

health research network to bolster

its expanding academic and clinical

research programme. Through this

partnership, NMC will gain access to

TriNetX’s extensive real‐world patient

data from over 318 million individuals

across more than 200 organisations,

enabling trend analysis, deeper insights

into disease patterns and support for

multi‐centre studies. The collaboration

is expected to enhance NMC’s ability to

attract pharmaceutical clinical trials,

strengthen its Centralised Research

Platform and Group Academic Council,

and foster collaboration with international

researchers. NMC’s research

activities have already yielded more

than 140 published articles and over

25 clinical trials across multiple therapeutic

areas, reflecting its growing role

in advancing healthcare innovation.

Quttainah Specialised Hospital, Dubai, Hosts the

Official UAE Launch of Avéli

Quttainah Specialised Hospital

in Dubai recently hosted the

official UAE launch of Avéli®,

reinforcing its position as a regional

reference and training centre for advanced

aesthetic medicine. Avéli® is

the first and only USFDA-cleared device

specifically designed to identify and

release fibrous septae, the underlying

cause of cellulite and skin dimpling,

The number of registered healthcare

practitioners in Saudi Arabia

has surged to over 800,000,

marking a 7.6 % increase compared

with the previous year, according to

the Saudi Commission for Health Specialities

(SCFHS). This growth reflects

the Kingdom’s ongoing commitment

to expanding and modernising its

healthcare sector, encompassing both

public and private facilities. During the

101st meeting of the SCFHS Board of

Trustees in Riyadh, officials highlighted

the rising capacity for training, with

more than 900,000 places now available

across various health specialities, an

increase of over 17 % compared with

last year. These initiatives aim to meet

the growing demand for skilled healthcare

professionals, enhance workforce

representing a significant leap in evidence-based

aesthetic treatments. The

launch was led by Dr. Alfredo Hoyos,

creator of the High Definition Liposuction

technique and global ambassador

for Avéli®. The advanced, minimally

invasive technology focuses on treating

the structural root of cellulite,

while highlighting the importance of

expert-led medical solutions.

Saudi Healthcare Workforce Tops 800,000

planning, and support Vision 2030,

which focuses on improving the quality,

accessibility, and sustainability of

health services nationwide.


Saudi German Health Opens Al Suyoh Clinic in Sharjah

Saudi German Health (SGH) has

expanded community healthcare

access in Sharjah with the launch

of Al Suyoh Clinic, situated in Al Suyoh

Mall, to serve residents of one of

the emirate’s fastest‐growing neighbourhoods.

The new facility delivers a

wide range of multidisciplinary medical

services, including general medicine,

paediatrics, obstetrics & gynaecology,

dermatology, dentistry and chronic

disease management, enabling families

to access essential care closer

to home without long travel times.

The clinic features extended evening

hours, digital appointment systems and

streamlined referral pathways to Saudi

German Hospital Sharjah and Saudi

German Hospital AjmanThe opening

also included a family wellness carnival

with preventive health screenings

and community engagement activities,

underlining SGH’s commitment to accessible

and comprehensive healthcare.

M42 Unveils First

Bahrain Healthcare

Hub With Advanced

Long‐Term Care

Facility

Abu Dhabi‐headquartered health

innovator M42 has officially

opened Amana Healthcare

Bahrain, its first facility in the Kingdom,

highlighting a major regional

expansion in specialised care. The

purpose‐built long‐term care and

rehabilitation hospital in Al Jasra, developed

in collaboration with Bahrain

Mumtalakat Holding Company, serves

as a cornerstone in strengthening

Bahrain’s healthcare infrastructure

by creating dedicated capacity for

post‐acute recovery. Spanning over

15,000 sqm with more than 100 beds

and supported by a multidisciplinary

clinical team, the facility is designed

to improve patient outcomes and

enhance the national continuum of

care. The launch underscores M42’s

commitment to expanding access to

tech‐enabled, patient‐centric services

across the Gulf Cooperation Council

and reflects growing public‐private

collaboration to elevate healthcare

standards while generating new training

and employment opportunities

locally.

PureHealth Unveils AI-Powered National

Diagnostic Lab in Abu Dhabi

PureHealth has launched the

UAE’s largest AI‐powered diagnostic

laboratory in Abu Dhabi,

a 70,000‐square‐foot flagship facility

developed by its subsidiary PureLab

that aims to transform national diagnostic

services through advanced

automation and artificial intelligence.

The seven‐storey lab can process

more than 30 million samples annually

and integrates robotics, real‐time

The UAE has amended its organ

transplant legislation to formally

regulate the use of non‐human

organs, including those derived from

animals and manufactured alternatives.

The updated law aims to ensure that

such procedures are conducted under

strict safety, ethical, and licensing standards,

safeguarding patient health while

embracing medical innovation. Health

facilities and practitioners must obtain

necessary approvals before performing

transplants, with all procedures reviewed

by a specialised committee and carried

out only with informed patient cons

creation of a national registry to monitor

quality control and connectivity with

a network of over 140 internationally

accredited laboratories, offering more

than 1,800 test parameters across specialities

from molecular genetics to

infectious disease detection. Operating

24/7 with a multidisciplinary team of

experts, the facility supports unified

testing, faster AI‐enhanced analysis,

remote pathology consultations and

community diagnostic services.

UAE Updates Organ Transplant Law to Include

Non‐Human Organs

non‐human organ transplants and sets out

penalties, including fines and potential

imprisonment, for non‐compliance. This

move reflects the UAE’s commitment to

modernising healthcare laws in line with

international practices.


Enhanced Mobility

parkin to Enable Enhanced

Parking Systems Across

Dubai in 2026

Redefining Urban Mobility Through

Smart Parking Infrastructure

WHY PARKING IS A STRATEGIC PRIORITY

Dubai’s vehicle population continues to grow at an accelerated pace,

putting pressure on urban infrastructure and traffic flows.

Registered vehicles in the emirate have surged

by around 9–10% in recent years, with daytime traffic volumes reaching

approximately 3.5 million vehicles on city roads during peak hours, well above global averages.

Yet despite this heavy traffic, parking supply remains constrained.

Historic data shows that Dubai has only around 166,000 formal parking

spaces versus a much higher number of vehicles, highlighting

a significant imbalance between demand and supply.

WHAT PARKIN IS ENABLING BY 2026

A city-wide shift toward intelligent parking systems

Real-time parking availability

across key districts

Smart sensors for accurate

space monitoring

Automated and contactless

payment solutions

Centralised digital platforms

for motorists and authorities


TECHNOLOGY POWERING THE TRANSFORMATION

Parkin’s upgraded ecosystem is expected to integrate:

IoT-enabled occupancy sensors

Predictive data analytics for demand forecasting

App-based navigation to free/available spaces

Digital wallets and contactless payments

Projected Impact: Smart parking technologies could boost

parking efficiency by up to 30%, easing urban congestion and

improving user experience.

A USER-CENTRIC PARKING EXPERIENCE

Parkin’s upgraded ecosystem is expected to integrate:

Show available

spaces in real time

Allow seamless

digital payments

Send alerts and

usage insights

Cover multiple zones

within one platform

SUPPORTING DUBAI’S SMART MOBILITY

AND SUSTAINABILITY GOALS

With Dubai pursuing broader smart city and sustainability initiatives,

intelligent parking directly supports major policy objectives:

Reducing unnecessary

circulation, a major

contributor to emissions

Aligning with

smart transport and

eMobility strategies

Integrating with

public transit

incentives

In traffic congestion terms alone, flexible and dynamic parking pricing

has already demonstrated tangible results: pilot projects

reduced congestion in event areas by up to 9%.


Economy


Advanced air taxi operations in Dubai are set to enhance urban mobility with city transport infrastructure.

The Emerging Air Taxi

Ecosystem: Economic

and Regulatory Outlook

for 2026

Air Taxis are Set to Transform Urban Mobility by

Combining Advanced Technology, Sustainability,

and Efficient Transport Solutions.

The air taxi industry is rapidly emerging

as a transformative solution for urban and

regional transportation, offering electric

vertical takeoff and landing aircraft designed

for short-distance travel. Advances

in eVTOL technology, increasing urban

congestion, and rising demand for faster,

flexible transport options are driving

significant investment and development

worldwide. Cities and regulators are actively

preparing for the integration of air

taxis into existing transport networks,

with commercial operations expected by

2026. This evolution promises to reshape

urban mobility, reduce travel times, and

create new economic opportunities across

aviation and related service sectors, driving

growth and enhancing the quality of

life for residents and visitors alike.


The concept of air taxis, electric

vertical takeoff and landing aircraft

designed for short-distance

urban and regional travel, is rapidly

moving from futuristic vision to imminent

reality. Advances in eVTOL

technologies, rising urban congestion,

and growing demand for faster, more

flexible transport are driving investment

in urban air mobility. Cities and

regulators worldwide are preparing

to integrate air taxis into their transportation

networks. The global air

taxi market is expanding quickly, with

forecasts showing significant growth as

eVTOLs advance toward commercial

operations by 2026.

Economic Potential and Market

Growth

Air taxis are set to reshape transportation

economics by creating a new segment

that bridges traditional aviation

and urban mobility. Improvements in

battery technology, electric propulsion

systems, and lightweight materials have

made eVTOL aircraft more efficient

and environmentally friendly. These

advances have attracted investment

from venture capital, aerospace firms,

automakers, and government innovation

programs.

Market research shows the air taxi

sector is on an upward trajectory, with

projections indicating steady expansion

through the next decade. Urban commuters

can expect air taxi journeys to

cut travel time significantly, offering

alternatives to congested roads and

airport transfers.

The economic impact extends beyond

passenger services. Air taxis will drive

job creation, stimulate demand for

vertiport construction, and support

electric aviation manufacturing. Additional

opportunities include aerial

logistics and medical transport services.

Early investments in major hubs are

positioning cities to lead the emerging

ecosystem.

Regulatory Frameworks: Progress

and Challenges

Despite strong economic incentives,

deployment depends on establishing

robust regulatory frameworks. Aviation

authorities are balancing innovation

with safety and reliability while integrating

air taxis into urban airspace.

Regulators such as the Federal Aviation

Administration in the United States and

the European Union Aviation Safety

Agency are drafting guidelines for pilot

licensing, airworthiness certification,

and operational safety standards specific

to eVTOL aircraft.

A key challenge lies in integrating

low-altitude urban flights into existing

airspace systems. Urban airspace

requires new coordination protocols,

infrastructure planning, and traffic management

that differ from conventional

aviation. The lack of unified global

standards complicates international

operations, requiring companies to

navigate varied regulations across

different markets.

In Asia, regulators are drafting roadmaps

for air taxi services with plans

for initial deployments in major cities

by 2026. Committees are being established

to oversee technical standards,

certification, and safety protocols. This

coordinated approach reflects growing

recognition of the sector’s potential

and the need for government oversight.

Regional Advances and Deployment

Plans

Several regions are taking concrete

steps to bring air taxis to market.

In the Middle East, the United Arab

Emirates is mapping air corridors and

preparing infrastructure for both piloted

and autonomous air taxi flights, with

commercial services expected to start

in 2026. Plans include the development

of vertiport hubs and partnerships with

eVTOL manufacturers.

In Europe and North America, aviation

companies and carriers are collaborating

to accelerate deployment

strategies. These partnerships leverage

existing aviation infrastructure while

building facilities specifically for urban

air mobility. Launch timelines are

targeted for the mid-decade period,

depending on regulatory approvals.

Economic Barriers and Investment

Realities

Despite technological and regulatory

progress, economic challenges remain.

High development costs for aircraft,

supporting vertiport infrastructure,

and advanced air traffic management

systems require substantial investment.

Companies must secure sustained

capital to move prototypes through

testing and certification.

Affordability will also affect market

adoption. Initial fares for air taxi

Air corridor mapping for

piloted and autonomous

air taxis and drones is

a crucial milestone that

will enable the seamless

implementation of

Advanced Air Mobility into

the UAE’s infrastructure.

This initiative ensures the

safe and efficient adoption

of air mobility, delivering

transformative solutions to

urban transport and paving

the way for a smarter,

more connected future.”

H.E. Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director

General, GCAA

services are likely to be higher than

traditional ground transport, creating

a premium segment before production

scales. Over time, increased production

and operational efficiencies are

expected to reduce costs and expand

accessibility. The emerging air taxi

ecosystem is set to redefine urban

mobility by offering faster, flexible,

and sustainable transport solutions.


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Finance World Magazine | Edition: January 2026

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