The UAE accelerated major transport and infrastructure projects throughout 2025, highlighted by a high-speed rail connection between Abu Dhabi and Dubai cutting travel time to 30 minutes, while national road development programmes worth AED170 billion through 2030 reshape urban mobility across all seven emirates.
Dubai Health has mobilized 1,900 medical and support staff with a fully equipped field hospital at Burj Khalifa to ensure comprehensive emergency coverage during New Year 2026 celebrations across the emirate.
UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan held bilateral talks with Pakistani Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on December 26, 2025, focusing on strengthening cooperation in economy, investment, development, and regional stability during an official visit to Islamabad.
Dubai Government Human Resources Department has declared January 1, 2026, an official public holiday for all government departments, with January 2, 2026, designated as a remote working day for eligible employees, while shift-based and essential services remain exempt.
Dubai Garden Glow has reopened Season 11 at Zabeel Park, introducing a groundbreaking two-in-one concept combining Dinosaur Park with Fantasy Park, accessible via a single Dh70 ticket that covers both venues for a full day of family entertainment.
Al Ain residents can now enjoy fast, reliable delivery of fresh groceries and household essentials – with AED 25 off their first three orders.
The UAE’s Federal Tax Authority (FTA) has approved a new tiered excise tax policy on sweetened drinks based on sugar content and reported that corporate tax registrations have surpassed 651,000, underscoring the success of the nation’s ongoing fiscal reforms.
Saudia Airlines has launched its first fully internet-enabled flight on November 2, 2025, offering free high-speed WiFi reaching 300 Mbps to all passengers as part of a strategic digital transformation aligned with Saudi Vision 2030. The inaugural test flight featured senior government officials experiencing live streaming, video calls, and continuous multi-device connectivity at altitude.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum approved the formation of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Endowment District Board of Trustees on November 1, 2025, marking the launch of the region’s first endowment-based mixed-use development combining residential, commercial, healthcare, and educational facilities with a total investment of Dhs4.7 billion.
Julith cafe in Dubai has unveiled the world’s most expensive coffee at Dhs3,600 (approximately $980) per cup, brewed from rare Panamanian ‘Nido 7 Geisha’ beans purchased at an exclusive Panama auction for a record-breaking Dhs2.2 million for just 20 kilograms.
Dubai and Sharjah are implementing comprehensive new traffic regulations for delivery motorcycles effective November 1, 2025, banning riders from high-speed lanes and imposing fines up to Dh1,500 to reduce road accidents amid the e-commerce boom.
Dubai Civil Aviation Authority launches new drone delivery service in Nad Al Sheba on October 27, 2025. Drones deliver food orders from Avenue Mall to residents via Nad Al Sheba Grand Mosque collection point.
The UAE Cabinet has approved the largest federal budget in the country’s history at AED92.4 billion for 2026. Sheikh Mohammed announced the decision at Qasr Al Watan, reflecting the nation’s commitment to balanced and sustainable development amid strong economic growth.
Saudi Arabia has achieved 85% of its Vision 2030 targets ahead of schedule. The Kingdom’s economy has doubled to $1.3 trillion, regional headquarters reached 675, and women’s workforce participation hit 37%.
Noatum Logistics and Hafeet Rail have signed an agreement to launch the first cross-border freight rail service between the UAE and Oman, connecting Abu Dhabi and Sohar with seven weekly trains.
Learn Dubai’s six critical left-lane traffic rules effective October 2025. Delivery rider restrictions, yield requirements, speed minimums, and penalties explained for safe driving.
UAE consumers shift to budget stores and private-label brands despite food inflation dropping to 0.36% in 2025. 85% remain worried about grocery prices. Discover changing shopping patterns in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs welcomes the ceasefire agreement between Pakistan and Afghanistan, commending Qatar and Turkey’s diplomatic efforts to advance regional stability and peace in South Asia.
The Middle East Facility Management Association (MEFMA) is gearing up to host the 12th edition of its flagship annual gathering, MEFMA CONFEX & Awards 2025, to be held under the patronage of Dubai Municipality from…
Presight and Dubai Taxi Company sign MoU at GITEX Global 2025 to develop AI-driven mobility solutions, introducing EV Intelligence Platform and cognitive technologies for sustainable transport.
G42 CEO reveals Sheikh Tahnoun’s Abu Dhabi home was designed using 500 ChatGPT prompts and built in under one year. His office operates with 10:1 AI-to-human ratio, showcasing UAE’s AI leadership at Gitex Global 2025.
The UAE’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has launched the AI-powered ‘Eye’ system to automate work permit approvals, reducing processing times and costs for employers.
UAE travel agents advise that air ticket prices are unlikely to fall until after December due to high seasonal demand, pre-set airline schedules, and strong business travel.
Parkin announces plans to build five fully automated multi-storey car parks across Dubai’s business districts within two years, featuring EV charging and seamless payment systems.
Dubai Taxi Company (DTC) partners with Keeta to revolutionize last-mile delivery with advanced technology, drones, and a fleet of 500 motorbikes by year-end.
Salt Bae’s restaurant chain maintains strong Middle East presence, plans new Dubai Mall location despite US and UK closures, exclusive report reveals.
Qatar announces breakthrough ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, with provisions for hostage release, prisoner exchanges and humanitarian aid to Gaza, brokered by Qatar, Egypt and the US.
UAE’s Gulftainer plans $1 billion investment in Egyptian ports, targeting container terminal management and expanding regional trade infrastructure.
Dubai International Airport (DXB) is set to reach a remarkable milestone of 100 million passengers annually by 2027, with airport chief executive Paul Griffiths revealing ambitious growth projections for the world’s busiest international airport. Dubai…
Discover how Dubai’s RTA is revolutionizing taxi services with 28 cutting-edge initiatives, improving passenger comfort, driver welfare, and technological integration.
