Month: January 2026

Dubai , January 26, 2026 : Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has completed 65%
of the construction works on a 1,500-metre bridge project featuring
two lanes in each direction, providing direct access to and from
Sheikh Zayed Road to Dubai Harbour. Dubai Harbour is a landmark
waterfront destination that hosts the largest yacht marinas in the
Middle East.
The project contractor has completed 90% of works related to
upgrading and adjusting utility services intersecting with the project,
alongside the implementation of approved traffic diversions. These
measures ensure smooth traffic flow and the continued progress of
construction and road works in line with the approved schedule. The
project is expected to be completed in the third quarter of the current
year.
His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director General, Chairman of the
Board of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority,
said, “This project reflects the directives of our leadership to develop

an integrated infrastructure that supports the rapid urban and
economic growth witnessed by Dubai. It represents a practical
model of effective integration and close collaboration between RTA
and strategic private-sector partners, ensuring that road and
transport projects are aligned with urban development plans in new
areas and along the emirate’s waterfront. Such coordination
enhances the mobility experience, supports quality of life, and
advances Dubai’s vision of strengthening its position as a leading
global city to live, work, and invest.”
Reducing Journey Time
He added: “The project includes the construction of a bridge
extending from Interchange 5 on Sheikh Zayed Road, near the
American University in Dubai, passing through the intersection of Al
Naseem Street and Al Falak Street, and crossing over King Salman
bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street, before connecting to Dubai Harbour
Street.”
“The bridge spans 1,500 metres and comprises two lanes in each
direction, with a total capacity of approximately 6,000 vehicles per
hour. The project also includes at-grade improvement works at four
key intersections along the corridor: Interchange 5 on Sheikh Zayed
Road, Al Falak Street with Al Naseem Street intersection, King
Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street with Al Naseem Street
intersection, and Dubai Harbour Street. Once completed, the project
will enhance traffic flow and reduce travel time from 12 minutes to
just 3 minutes.”
Integrated Maritime DestinationAbdulla Binhabtoor, Chief
Executive Officer of Shamal Holding, said: “Dubai Harbour Bridge
represents a significant advancement in infrastructure connecting
the city to its waterfront, further strengthening Dubai Harbour’s
position as a fully integrated and highly connected maritime
destination.”
“This project reflects Shamal’s commitment to delivering iconic
destinations that elevate Dubai’s urban and architectural landscape.
It is driven by a long-term investment vision and carefully calibrated
planning, underpinned by strategic decisions informed by our deep
understanding of how destinations evolve. This enables us to
identify the optimal timing for investment in their growth, supporting
the creation of more seamless and adaptable environments capable
of offering enjoyable and sustainable experiences.”

3

“The bridge also facilitates daily commute to and from Dubai
Harbour through its direct connection to Sheikh Zayed Road,
enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors alike. We are
proud to deliver this project in collaboration with the Roads and
Transport Authority, embodying the wise leadership’s vision of
establishing a world-class connectivity ecosystem that forms a
cornerstone of Dubai’s long-term growth,” Binhabtoor concluded.
Dubai Harbour
Dubai Harbour enjoys a prime location between Bluewaters Island
and Palm Jumeirah, in close proximity to some of Dubai’s most
iconic landmarks, including Burj Al Arab. The destination features a
wide range of residential, retail, and leisure offerings.
A development project is currently underway across a stretch of 1.5
km, featuring a residential complex of 24 towers and approximately
7,500 residential apartments.

Dubai , January 23, 2026 : Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), a member of the Higher Committee of Al Quoz Creative Zone, has announced the completion of a comprehensive package of infrastructure and mobility projects aimed at enhancing connectivity and strengthening transport integration across the area.

The projects form part of a broader master plan to transform Al Quoz Creative Zone into a fully integrated global creative hub, catering to artists, designers, entrepreneurs, and investors from around the world. The zone is designed to support every stage of the creative value chain—from design and production to exhibition and marketing—while offering affordable live-work solutions within a collaborative framework that ensures commercial viability for developers and landowners.

Al Quoz Creative Zone features high-quality public spaces and dedicated venues for events, encouraging walking, active mobility, and social interaction. These elements contribute to a distinctive urban identity, positioning the area as a year-round destination for cultural, educational, and recreational experiences.

Key Infrastructure and Mobility Enhancements

Among the completed projects is a pedestrian and cycling bridge on Al Manara Street, designed to improve safety and ensure smooth pedestrian and cyclist movement within the zone and surrounding areas. The bridge incorporates architectural elements aligned with the creative zone’s visual identity and built environment. Measuring 45 metres in length and 5.5 metres in width, and standing 6 metres high, the bridge includes two access ramps, each extending 210 metres.

RTA has also delivered three mobility hubs, along with pedestrian, cycling, and individual mobility routes spanning a total of 4 kilometres. These developments enhance connectivity between Al Quoz Creative Zone, Onpassive Metro Station, and Al Quoz Bus Station, enabling seamless multimodal transport and reducing reliance on private vehicles.

In addition, preparations have been completed for the implementation of the Super Blocks project within the zone, as part of Dubai’s wider master plan to expand pedestrian pathways across the emirate.

Super Blocks and Cultural Activation

The Super Blocks project introduces flexible urban spaces that can host artistic events and cultural festivals, allowing selected streets to be temporarily closed and transformed into pedestrian-only environments. These urban oases will support initiatives such as the Al Quoz Arts Festival, scheduled for 24 and 25 January, organised by Alserkal Avenue in strategic partnership with Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture).

The project aligns with the objectives of the Year of the Family, Dubai Social Agenda 33, and Dubai Urban Plan 2040 by promoting social cohesion and enhancing quality of life through people-centric, pedestrian-focused environments. It also supports the 20-Minute City concept by encouraging sustainable mobility and enabling residents and visitors to access work, services, and leisure within a compact, well-connected urban setting.

Leadership Perspectives

His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA, and Vice Chairman of the Higher Committee of Al Quoz Creative Zone, said the completed projects reflect RTA’s commitment to integrated, people-focused transport solutions.

“Connecting Al Quoz Creative Zone to Al Safa Metro Station and Al Quoz Bus Station through an integrated network of pedestrian, cycling, and individual mobility routes enhances urban mobility efficiency and quality of life for residents, visitors, and entrepreneurs,” he said.

He added that the pedestrian and cycling bridge on Al Manara Street enhances safety and traffic flow while reinforcing the priority given to sustainable mobility, and that mobility hubs and internal pathways help create a connected, accessible environment that encourages walking and social interaction.

Her Excellency Hala Badri, Director General of Dubai Culture, said Al Quoz Creative Zone reflects Dubai’s ambition to position culture as a key economic driver and reinforce the emirate’s standing as a global hub for creativity and talent.

“The completion of soft mobility and transport integration projects will further enhance the zone’s appeal,” she said. “Dubai Culture remains committed to activating the area through high-impact initiatives that support innovators, attract investment, and strengthen the cultural and creative industries ecosystem.”

Expanding Creative Capacity

According to the land-use master plan, Al Quoz Creative Zone is set for significant expansion. Upon full implementation, the number of creatives in the area is expected to increase from 900 to 20,000. The zone will accommodate up to 8,000 residents and attract approximately 33,000 visitors per day.

The plan includes a tenfold increase in studio and workshop spaces, a threefold expansion of leisure and support facilities, and a 30% rise in leasable areas. By global standards, Al Quoz Creative Zone is set to rank among the largest creative districts worldwide in terms of built-up area and number of practitioners.

A Distinctive Planning Code

A pioneering planning code has been introduced to support integrated live-work environments, including the provision of 2,900 affordable housing units for creatives. The code prioritises public realm design, delivering flexible spaces for artistic activities, exhibitions, and cultural events.

It also includes the transformation of traditional sikeek (alleys) into shaded outdoor spaces, the development of exploration and knowledge routes, and the creation of public plazas and shared open areas for social interaction and artistic display. An innovative visual identity strategy featuring sculptures, murals, and dedicated art routes further enhances the visitor experience, while preserving Al Quoz’s industrial character through the adaptive reuse of existing warehouses.

Dubai , January 23 , 2026 : Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) launched a Permit to Install Parking Shades in Residential Neighbourhoods, applicable to designated and properly reserved parking spaces. The service is available through RTA’s website and is processed via contracting companies, with applications submitted through a unified digital portal that enables applicants to obtain approvals from all relevant service entities.

The introduction of the service responds to residents’ needs and reflects RTA’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life while preserving the urban and aesthetic character of Dubai. RTA highlighted the importance of the service based on feedback received through customer councils and field visits, as well as in response to high summer temperatures and the growing number of vehicles within residential communities.

Arif Shakri, Director of Right-of-Way at RTA’s Traffic and Roads Agency, stated: “The approved requirements for installing parking shades in residential neighbourhoods stipulate that the shades must not affect the continuity of soft mobility or pedestrian movement, nor compromise road safety or the smooth flow of traffic. The requirements further specify that the shades must not obstruct traffic signs, impact infrastructure utility lines located beneath pavements and parking areas, and must comply with the design and colour standards approved by RTA. In addition, the installation must be temporary, allowing for removal at the request of any service entity sharing infrastructure services in cases of development projects, maintenance works, or emergencies.”

Shakri urged owners of new residential units, as well as prospective owners undertaking construction works, to fulfil their role as partners in making Dubai one of the world’s most beautiful, refined, and advanced cities by ensuring due consideration of the right-of-way. He emphasised the importance of verifying, during the shade installation phase, that all installations fully comply with the standards applied across the Emirate of Dubai.

He concluded: “The objective of the service is to streamline the installation of parking shades in accordance with approved technical specifications and requirements, in a manner that preserves the emirate’s urban and aesthetic character, ensures the safety and smooth movement of pedestrians and vehicles, and prevents any impact on traffic signs or road furniture.

Kuwait , January 23, 2026 : VFS Global, the world’s leading provider of trusted technology services that support secure mobility for governments and citizens, has inaugurated a new state-of-the-art Visa Application Centre in Kuwait in association with the Embassies of the Czech Republic and the Federal Republic of Germany.

The upgraded facility has been designed to deliver an enhanced visa application experience for residents of Kuwait. It features an increased number of biometric enrolment counters to enable faster processing, along with a modernised layout that ensures a comfortable, secure, and privacy-enabled environment for applicants.

The renewed Visa Application Centre was officially inaugurated by H.E. Mr. Juraj Chmiel, Ambassador of the Czech Republic to Kuwait, and H.E. Mr. Hans-Christian Freiherr von Reibnitz, Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to Kuwait, in the presence of senior VFS Global officials including Ms. Monaz Billimoria, Regional Head – Kuwait, and Mr. Avdhut Shelar, Head of Operations – Kuwait.

Speaking at the inauguration, H.E. Mr. Juraj Chmiel highlighted the importance of efficient and transparent visa services. “This new visa application centre reflects our commitment to providing efficient, transparent, and user-friendly services. We believe that the renewed services will facilitate easier mobility, supporting cultural exchange, business growth, and stronger people-to-people connections. Through this centre, we look forward to welcoming more travellers to explore the natural, historical, and cultural richness of the Czech Republic,” he said.

H.E. Mr. Hans-Christian Freiherr von Reibnitz noted VFS Global’s long-standing partnership with Germany, stating, “VFS Global has been trusted with receiving visa applications for the Federal Republic of Germany for more than 20 years. Their services have continuously expanded and improved. As all residents of Kuwait wishing to travel to Germany pass through these premises, I am pleased to see them upgraded into a truly welcoming, efficient, and comfortable space—the perfect place to begin a visit to Germany.”

Ms. Monaz Billimoria, Regional Head at VFS Global, said the new centre would help address the growing demand for travel to Europe. “VFS Global shares a long-standing relationship with the Governments of the Czech Republic and the Federal Republic of Germany. This state-of-the-art facility will play a vital role in enhancing customer experience and enabling us to serve travellers in Kuwait more effectively,” she said.

Applicants visiting the centre can also opt for a range of optional services, including SMS alerts and courier services, to further streamline their application experience. VFS Global clarified that these optional services do not influence visa processing timelines or decisions.

VFS Global has partnered with the Government of the Czech Republic since 2014 and with the Federal Republic of Germany since 2005. Currently, the company operates 73 visa application centres for the Czech Republic across 30 countries and supports Germany through a network of 74 centres in 31 countries worldwide.

Visa applicants are required to book appointments in advance through VFS Global’s official website, www.vfsglobal.com, at no additional charge. The company reiterated that its role is limited to front-end administrative services, such as collecting applications and documentation, while all visa decisions remain the sole responsibility of the respective Embassies and Consulates.

Dubai , January 21 , 2026 : in collaboration with the
University of Arizona, has launched the “Executive Leadership”
Programme. The programme aims to develop the skills of executive
leaders and directors, empower them to make strategic decisions, and
enhance execution efficiency. It aligns with the rapid global
transformations in the smart mobility sector and emphasises RTA’s
ongoing commitment to developing national leadership and
strengthening future readiness.
The collaboration with the University of Arizona forms part of RTA’s
efforts to benefit from leading global expertise in innovation and
leadership development. This approach comes in line with RTA’s focus
on investing in human capital and building leaders capable of making
effective strategic decisions. It also contributes to achieving RTA’s future
vision and objectives for the transport and mobility sector, ensuring
sustainability of the transport system and enhancing Dubai’s
competitiveness and leadership in this vital sector.
His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director General, Chairman of the Board
of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), met
with Prof. Anastasiya Ghosh, Associate Dean for Partnerships at Eller
College of Management, University of Arizona. During the meeting, the
two parties discussed avenues of cooperation and reviewed the training
and educational services and programmes offered by the University.
First and Second-Line Leadership
Al Tayer reaffirmed RTA’s dedication to human capital development,
guided by the firm belief that investing in people is the key for sustaining
leadership, stating: “RTA attaches strategic importance to developing
first and second-line leadership and empowering executive leaders
through advanced development programmes and global knowledge

2

partnerships. This approach enables leaders to anticipate the future and
drive positive change across the corporate work environment. We also
focus on strengthening the capabilities of our cadres in managing
challenges, strategic decision-making, and leading multidisciplinary
teams, ensuring the highest levels of corporate performance and
operational excellence.”
He added: “Delivering our strategic programmes for road network
infrastructure, public transport, and smart mobility requires highly
capable human capital to manage complex projects, maintain delivery
schedules, and uphold the highest standards of quality and sustainability.
RTA remains committed to fostering a work environment that
encourages innovation, supports continuous learning, attracts
outstanding talent, and develops it to achieve global leadership in
seamless and sustainable mobility.”
Integrated Learning Experience
The programme offers an integrated learning experience delivered over
six days, combining strategic thinking, business systems analysis, and
future foresight through applied modules and case studies drawn from
global best practices. This approach strengthens participants’ ability to
analyse operational challenges, evaluate alternatives, and develop
innovative, practical solutions, enhancing their capacity to make
informed, data-driven strategic decisions and anticipate future trends.
The programme also places strong emphasis on addressing real-world
challenges through innovative solutions aligned with international best
practices. It follows a structured methodology that includes analysing
options, assessing trade-offs, and developing actionable implementation
plans, ensuring outcomes that are immediately applicable and deliver
tangible impact.
The programme is delivered by a selected group of faculty members
from Business Administration and Engineering at the University of
Arizona. Participants are guided to derive, apply, and test decision-
design principles and frameworks in a way that aligns with the
organisational and operational environment of Dubai’s Roads and
Transport Authority.
The programme also provides an interactive platform for participants to
present the models and strategies they develop before a panel of experts
and decision-makers. This supports the translation of ideas into practical

3

initiatives that advance RTA’s journey, future directions, corporate
readiness, and the sustainability of its outcomes.

Dubai , January 21, 2026 : Africa–UAE economic relations reached a defining moment today with the official launch of the CRDB Bank Dubai Representative Office at the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), marking the first time a Tanzanian bank has established a presence within one of the world’s most influential financial hubs.

The milestone positions Tanzania, together with the East and Central Africa region, directly within the global capital ecosystem, using a home-grown African financial institution as the bridge between regional opportunity and international finance.

The launch brought together senior leaders from international financial institutions, global investors, multinational corporates and development finance partners, reflecting growing global interest in Africa as the world’s next major growth frontier.

The ceremony was officiated by Ambassador Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, who delivered a keynote address on behalf of Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of the United Republic of Tanzania.

Speaking on behalf of the President, Minister Kombo commended CRDB Bank for advancing Tanzania’s national economic vision through a strong domestic institution capable of operating at global standards. He said the choice of Dubai was strategic, citing its role as a leading global capital hub and the strong regulatory framework of DIFC. 

“The presence of a Tanzanian bank in Dubai will deepen economic, trade and investment relations between Tanzania and the United Arab Emirates, building on bilateral trade that has already reached approximately USD 2.5 billion annually, while strengthening Tanzania’s linkages with global markets,” Minister Kombo Said.

Tanzania, with more than 60 million people, has sustained average GDP growth of 6–7 percent for over two decades, maintained single-digit inflation and preserved macroeconomic stability even during periods of global disruption. This stability has enabled Tanzania to evolve into a natural gateway economy, linking the Indian Ocean to landlocked markets across East and Central Africa.

It is this gateway role that CRDB Bank has been built to serve. Founded 30 years ago, the Bank has grown alongside Tanzania’s economy and regional integration agenda. Today, the Group serves over six million customers across the region, with a balance sheet exceeding USD 9 billion. Its footprint in Tanzania, Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo mirrors the region’s most important trade, logistics and investment corridors.

In his remarks, Abdulmajid Nsekela, Group CEO of CRDB Bank, said the expansion into Dubai represents the logical next step in a regional strategy rooted in Tanzania’s economic geography and Africa’s integration agenda.

“CRDB Bank was built to finance Tanzania’s growth. As Tanzania became a gateway, the Bank became regional,” he said. “Dubai now allows us to complete the triangle—linking global capital, Tanzania, and East and Central Africa through one trusted African institution.”

East and Central Africa together represent a market of nearly 400 million people, defined by rising intra-African trade, expanding infrastructure networks, vast mineral and energy resources, and one of the youngest labour forces in the world. Africa as a whole is home to 1.4 billion people, generates over USD 3.4 trillion in GDP, and is projected to account for a quarter of the global population by 2050.

Despite this scale, access to long-term, structured capital remains a persistent constraint. The CRDB Bank Dubai Representative Office has been designed to address this gap by originating deals, structuring financing and mobilizing global capital for African projects that require both local understanding and international standards. “Africa does not lack opportunity,” Mr. Nsekela noted. “What it often lacks is a bridge between capital and execution. This office is that bridge.”

By establishing a Tanzanian banking presence at DIFC, CRDB Bank is expected to deepen trade finance, cross-border investment structuring and syndicated financing between the Gulf and Africa, using Tanzania as the anchor and East and Central Africa as the growth hinterland. The office also strengthens Africa’s engagement with Islamic finance, a global market exceeding USD 4 trillion in assets.

Neema Mori, Chairperson of the CRDB Bank Board of Directors, said the milestone reflects growing confidence in African institutions to operate at the highest global level. “This is a statement about governance, capability and trust,” she said. “CRDB Bank’s presence in Dubai demonstrates that African banks can anchor global partnerships while remaining firmly aligned with Africa’s development priorities.”

Leadership from the Dubai Financial Services Authority welcomed CRDB Bank into the DIFC ecosystem, noting that an African bank with deep regional roots strengthens the Africa–Middle East financial corridor and improves the flow of long-term capital into emerging markets.

Dubai, January 20, 2026: As part of its efforts to enhance quality of life and facilitate and simplify
procedures related to foreign driving licences for residents and visitors in
Dubai, Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) replaced 58,082
foreign driving licences during 2025. The replacements covered driving
licences issued in 57 countries, recognised for exchange with a UAE
driving licence, in accordance with ministerial decisions and memoranda of
understanding signed between the United Arab Emirates and the relevant
countries.
Sultan Al Akraf, Director of Drivers Licensing at the Licensing Agency,
RTA, confirmed that the list of countries whose citizens are eligible to
replace their driving licences with a UAE driving licence includes five GCC
countries, 38 European countries, 13 Asian and Latin American countries,
and one African country. He noted that the most recent additions during the
current and previous year include Kyrgyzstan, Kosovo, North Macedonia,
the State of Texas, and Croatia, reinforcing the emirate’s approach to
supporting international cooperation and serving community members of
diverse nationalities, in line with Dubai’s position as a preferred global
destination for living, working, and achieving quality of life.
Al Akraf stated that the driving licence replacement service is available
through RTA’s website or via Customer Happiness Centres across Dubai.
The procedures are completed by undergoing an eye test at one of the
approved vision testing centres, submitting the application, presenting the

2

original driving licence to be replaced, and paying the prescribed fees,
provided that the licence is valid, and that the applicant attends in person.
He added that this step aligns with the UAE’s vision of delivering flexible
and efficient services and strengthening its position as a leading global
destination for working, living, and seamless mobility with ease and
comfort.
The full list of countries whose driving licences are recognised for
replacement with a UAE driving licence can be viewed through the service
link below:
https://www.rta.ae/wps/portal/rta/ae/home/rta-services/service-
details?serviceId=3704301
Top Countries for Driving Licence Replacement
By the end of December 2025, the United Kingdom (England, Wales,
Scotland, and Northern Ireland) ranked first among countries whose
nationals replaced their domestic driving licences with a UAE driving
licence, recording 13,165 licences. It was followed by the Republic of
Türkiye with 6,838 licences, and China with 5,300 licences.