Air India Express Announces Special Excess Baggage Discounts for Middle East–India Routes

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Air India Express Announces Special Excess Baggage Discounts for Middle East–India Routes

News 3 weeks ago

Mumbai , January 15 , 2026 :Air India Express has introduced a limited-period promotional offer providing discounted excess baggage options for passengers travelling from select Middle Eastern countries to India, reinforcing its commitment to delivering enhanced value and convenience to international travellers.

The offer enables guests flying from Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates to pre-book 5 kg or 10 kg of additional check-in baggage at preferential rates. The promotion is valid for bookings made up to 31 January 2026, with travel permitted between 16 January and 10 March 2026, subject to availability.

Passengers can avail of the offer through the airline’s official website (www.airindiaexpress.com), mobile application, and all major booking platforms, during the booking process.

Under the scheme, excess baggage is available at the following rates:

BHD 0.2 from Bahrain
KWD 0.2 from Kuwait
OMR 0.2 from Oman
QAR 2 from Qatar
SAR 2 from Saudi Arabia
AED 2 from the UAE

The discounted baggage options can be purchased in 5 kg and 10 kg increments and apply across all fare categories, including Xpress Value, Xpress Lite, Xpress Flex, and Xpress Biz. The offer is applicable exclusively at the time of booking.

Air India Express currently offers a minimum check-in baggage allowance of 30 kg on these routes across fare types, except for Xpress Lite, the airline’s zero check-in baggage fare. With the addition of up to 10 kg under this promotion, passengers can now travel with up to 40 kg of check-in baggage, facilitating greater ease in carrying gifts, essentials, and personal belongings when travelling to India.

نجاح المطورين العقاريين يرتكز على الأمانة والإتقان

Mohamed Ali Alabbar: RTA’s Projects in DubaiShaped a Global City, Strengthened Real EstateSuccess

News 3 weeks ago

Dubai, January 14 , 2026 : Mohamed Ali Alabbar, Founder of Emaar and Noon and Chairman

of Eagle Hills, praised the large-scale and diverse projects delivered
by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) across infrastructure, public transport and other vital sectors, affirming that
these achievements have played a direct role in consolidating  Dubai’s position as a global city and a leading economic, urban and commercial hub.
Alabbar made this statement during an interview conducted with him by media personality Jamal Al Mulla on the sidelines of the 11th Dubai International Project Management Forum 2026, which took place on 14 and 15 January and is organised annually the RTA. The forum brings together wide participation from companies, institutions, experts, decision-makers and specialists, in addition to academic and scientific institutions from the UAE, the region and around the world.
Alabbar said, “Infrastructure and public transport projects, alongside  the strategic initiatives delivered by the Roads and Transport  Authority with high efficiency, have played a key role in ensuring the  success of real estate and urban development projects, including those developed by Emaar.”
He added, “Dubai is a beautiful city and a global icon. What has further enhanced its beauty and distinction are the projects delivered  by the RTA, which have kept pace with population growth and the  remarkable urban expansion witnessed by the emirate.”

Speaking about project management at Emaar, Mohamed Ali Alabbar said, “The company places strong emphasis on responding
to market needs, based on its conviction that housing represents  one of the most fundamental pillars of human and family life,
providing comfort, reassurance and security. Emaar is committed to 2 achieving an integrated balance between construction projects, green spaces and essential services, given their direct impact on residents’ daily quality of life.” He continued, “As a leading real estate developer in the UAE and globally, we place the highest importance on corporate reputation.
We are committed to representing our beloved country abroad and reinforcing its esteemed standing by delivering real estate projects distinguished by innovative design, durability and comfort, alongside  the premium post-completion services we provide.”
Alabbar said, “The success of real estate developers is founded on  integrity, excellence and transparency in the execution and
management of projects, as well as on delivering credible developments that meet the needs of different segments of society,
both within the UAE and internationally. A successful real estate developer must also possess a comprehensive

understanding of modern living requirements, a high level of artistic sensibility, and strong capabilities in managing relationships with government entities, partners, stakeholders and investors, given their pivotal role
in generating financial returns, supporting economic growth and contributing to higher gross domestic product.”

Zoho Corporation Opens its First Data Centres in UAE

News 3 weeks ago

Dubai , January 14 , 2026 : Zoho Corporation, a global technology company, today announced the launch of its data centres in UAE in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The data centres form a part of AED 100 million investment in the UAE that the company had announced in 2023. The data centre will host solutions from Zoho Corporation’s two key brands: ManageEngine (enterprise IT management) and Zoho (cloud business solutions).

“The opening of our data centres is part of our ongoing investment in the UAE, which remains one of the largest markets in the region for both ManageEngine and Zoho brands,” said Shailesh Davey, Co-founder and CEO, Zoho Corporation. “With this move, Zoho Corporation will be enabling businesses store their data locally, strengthening data sovereignty, and supporting National Cybersecurity Agenda. Furthermore, 100+ solutions across Zoho and ManageEngine, will enable businesses of all sizes, and government and semi-government organisations adopt cloud technology for digital transformation in nearly every area of operation, and help Dubai become a digital economy line with Dubai Vision 2030.”

The data centres have also received certification from CSP Security Standard Certificate by DESC (Dubai Electronic Security Center). This qualifies Zoho Corporation to serve government and semi-government entities in addition to local businesses. As part of this, the data centres are also compliant with: ISO 27001, ISO 22301, ISO 27017 and CSA STAR Level 2 Certificate for data centres. In addition, the company’s Dubai office has received ISO 27001 certificate.

Growth Momentum of Zoho

Zoho has grown by 38.7% in 2025 in UAE, and expanded its partner network by 29% in the same period. It has further increased its employee count by 35% last year to serve the needs of its increasing customer base, and expanded into a larger office. The key solutions driving Zoho’s growth are: Customer Experience platform (Zoho CRM, Desk and Zoho CRM Plus), Zoho Books (VAT-compliant and FTA-approved accounting software), Creator (low-code app development platform), Zoho Workplace (communication and collaboration platform), and Zoho One (all-in-one suite of 55+ products).

In the past five years, Zoho has invested AED 80 million on enabling over 7000 businesses in their digital transformation journey through various partnerships such as those with DET and Dubai Culture. In the past few years, Zoho has seen a steady upmarket growth in the country, 48% in 2025, led by its strong platform capabilities that allow enterprises achieve faster time to value and lowers their total cost of ownership.

Growth Momentum of ManageEngine

ManageEngine has grown by 20% in 2025 in the UAE, led by its continued focus on the enterprise sector. The brand has strengthened its local presence, including through the partner network, to support the increasing adoption of its solutions across both private and government organizations. The key solutions driving the growth are: Endpoint Central (unified endpoint management), ServiceDesk Plus (unified service management) and Site24x7 (cloud-based observability platform).

In the recent years, growth in the UAE for ManageEngine has been particularly strong in BFSI, government and public sector, and manufacturing, fuelled by cloud adoption, which is growing at nearly 35% in the region for the brand’s cloud solutions. This trend reflects a broader shift toward cloud-first strategies, as organizations prioritise scalability, agility, and faster innovation.

UAE

Artificial Intelligence, Sustainability and Agility Key to Future Project Success – Ike Nwankwo

News 3 weeks ago

Dubai , januaryc14, 2026 : Ike Nwankwo, Chair of the Board of Directors of the Project Management Institute (PMI), has identified artificial intelligence, sustainability and agile methodologies as critical future trends for ensuring the success of projects across industries.Speaking during a session titled “Future Trends in Project Management”, Nwankwo emphasized the growing need to integrate advanced artificial intelligence technologies and data analytics with flexible, agile approaches and sustainable practices. He noted that these elements are essential for organizations seeking long-term success in an increasingly dynamic and competitive global environment.

Nwankwo also stressed the importance of developing human capabilities, highlighting the need for individuals and project teams to acquire skills and competencies that enable them to adapt effectively to rapid changes in the labour market.

“We must adopt practices that focus on value rather than deliverables alone in managing and delivering projects,” he said. “This can be achieved through a deeper emphasis on project mechanics, effective governance, and the development of smart, automated operational frameworks that ensure sustainable success and excellence across all stages of planning, implementation and ongoing performance.”

He further highlighted cybersecurity and hybrid management models as emerging priorities in future project management. According to Nwankwo, responding effectively to change requires significant investment in human capital through modern management training, performance development, and a gradual shift from traditional management to strong leadership capabilities.

“Enhancing employee skills and progressing from management to leadership through innovative and practical training is no longer optional,” he added.

Nwankwo expressed his appreciation for participating in the Dubai International Project Management Forum, describing it as a leading global platform for the exchange of expertise, best practices and innovative models among project management professionals.

“The forum provides a valuable opportunity for dialogue on business opportunities available to companies and decision-makers, while reinforcing Dubai’s position as a global hub for hosting major international events and thought leadership forums,” he said.

The Dubai International Project Management Forum continues to attract industry leaders and experts from around the world, fostering discussions that shape the future of project management and organizational excellence

UAE

Second edition of the UAE Libraries Forum kicks off

News 3 weeks ago

Sharjah , January 13 ,2026 : In the presence of H.H. Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority, the second edition of the UAE Libraries Forum opened on Tuesday at the Authority’s headquarters in Sharjah.

The forum, organised by the Emirates Library and Information Association, is themed “Libraries Between Artificial Intelligence and the Humanity of Knowledge”.

The two-day forum brings together a distinguished group of local and international experts in library and information science, aiming to strengthen the role of libraries in supporting culture and knowledge and to explore opportunities for digital transformation, innovation and the ethical use of artificial intelligence in library environments.

As part of the forum’s activities, Sheikha Bodour inaugurated the Manuscripts Exhibition, featuring a curated collection of rare manuscripts and historically significant books that reflect the depth of Arab and Islamic intellectual heritage. She also inaugurated the pavilions of participating entities, which showcase innovative projects and services in the libraries and information sector, enhancing cooperation and knowledge exchange.

Sheikha Bodour honoured partners and supporters whose initiatives have advanced the association’s mission and strengthened its institutional presence.

UAE

Dubai Police call for vigilance over AI forged documents

News 3 weeks ago

Dubai , January 13 , 2026 : DUBAI, 13th January, 2026 (WAM) — Dubai Police have issued a public warning about the growing misuse of artificial intelligence in forging official and unofficial documents, a tactic increasingly used to commit financial fraud and bypass the law.

The alert was issued by the Anti-Fraud Centre at the General Department of Criminal Investigation, urging institutions, companies, and members of the public to remain vigilant and carefully verify any documents received via email or social media.

As part of Dubai Police’s ongoing #BewareofFraud campaign, the Anti-Fraud Centre stressed the importance of digital awareness across all segments of society. Fraudsters, the centre explained, are exploiting rapid technological advances, including AI tools, to produce forged documents that may appear professionally written and well formatted at first glance.

Despite their polished appearance, many forged documents contain warning signs that specialists can detect. These include inaccurate or inconsistent information, wording that differs from approved official templates, and the use of fake signatures or stamps.

Dubai Police advised the public not to rely solely on the appearance of documents. Verification should include checking the source, reviewing digital file details such as creation and modification dates, and confirming the presence of official reference numbers that can be traced.

The Anti-Fraud Centre emphasised that using artificial intelligence for document forgery is a criminal offence punishable by law. It also highlighted that strong digital awareness among the public remains the first line of defence against fraud.

Dubai Police called on anyone who suspects a fraud attempt to report it immediately through the Dubai Police smart app, by calling 901, or via the eCrime platform dedicated to reporting cybercrimes.

Dubai Police highlighted that UAE law imposes strict penalties on document forgery, whether official or unofficial. Under Article 252 of Federal Decree Law No. 31 of 2021 on Crimes and Penalties, forging an official document is punishable by temporary imprisonment for up to 10 years, while forging an unofficial document is punishable by imprisonment.

In addition, Article 253 stipulates that anyone who forges a copy of an official document and uses it, or knowingly uses a forged copy, faces temporary imprisonment for up to 5 years. If the forged copy relates to an unofficial document, the penalty is imprisonment.

With regard to electronic documents, Article 14 of Federal Decree Law No. 34 of 2021 on Combating Rumours and Cybercrimes states that anyone who forges an electronic document belonging to a federal or local government entity, or a public authority or institution, is punishable by temporary imprisonment and a fine ranging from AED150,000 to AED750,000.

If the forgery involves electronic documents issued by entities other than those specified above, the penalty is imprisonment and a fine ranging from AED100,000 to AED300,000, or either of these penalties. The same penalties apply to anyone who knowingly uses a forged electronic document.

Top News

Henley Passport Index: UAE passport ranks 5th globally after record-breaking rise

News 3 weeks ago

London, 13th January, 2026 : The United Arab Emirates has recorded the strongest long-term rise of any country on the Henley Passport Index, climbing an unprecedented 57 places over the past two decades to rank 5th globally in 2026.

According to the latest Henley Passport Index – which marks its 20th anniversary this year and is based on exclusive data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) – UAE passport holders now enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 184 destinations worldwide. This represents an exceptional increase of 149 destinations since 2006, the largest gain recorded by any country in the index’s history.

The UAE has consistently strengthened its passport power through sustained diplomatic engagement, strategic visa policy, and the expansion of bilateral and multilateral partnerships.

“The UAE’s rise on the Henley Passport Index is without parallel,” said Dr. Christian H. Kaelin, Chairman of Henley & Partners and creator of the index. “It demonstrates how long-term vision, political stability, and proactive diplomacy can translate directly into tangible mobility benefits for citizens, and increasing soft power for the country.”

The UAE now ranks ahead of traditionally strong passports including New Zealand (6th), the United Kingdom and Australia (both 7th), Canada (8th), and the United States (10th). This achievement underscores the UAE’s emergence as a global leader in building constructive international relationships across regions, reflected directly in the breadth of visa-free access granted to its citizens.

Commenting on the ranking, Omar Obaid Al Shamsi, Under-Secretary of the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said, “The record-breaking ascent of the UAE passport reflects our leadership’s forward-looking vision and unwavering commitment to openness, dialogue, and global cooperation. This achievement is the result of the tireless efforts of UAE diplomacy to establish strategic partnerships that elevate the nation’s standing on the international stage.

Al Shamsi added, “By expanding travel freedom, the UAE ensures that our citizens enjoy ever-greater opportunities across the world, while simultaneously fostering global growth and collaboration. The UAE’s journey stands as an inspiring example of how vision, engagement, and openness can translate into tangible benefits for both citizens and the wider international community.”

As international travel demand continues to grow – with IATA forecasting more than 5.2 billion airline passengers worldwide in 2026 – passport strength is becoming an increasingly critical enabler of economic and social participation and soft power.

“A record number of people are expected to travel in 2026. The unequivocal economic and social benefits generated by this travel grow as it becomes more accessible,” said Willie Walsh, Director-General of IATA. “As many governments look to more tightly secure their borders, technological advances such as digital ID and digital passports should not be overlooked by policymakers. Convenient travel and secure borders are possible.”

Exclusive research from Henley & Partners into the predictors of passport strength highlights the key structural factors that underpin a powerful passport – including reciprocity in visa policies, proactive foreign relations, economic status, and tourism-led openness. Countries that actively negotiate visa waivers and build cooperative ties tend to expand travel freedom for their citizens. The research also shows that political and economic stability, combined with a high degree of openness to foreign visitors and residents, correlates strongly with sustained gains in passport power – a dynamic the UAE demonstrates in exemplary fashion.

“Passport strength is not accidental – it is built by a clear vision and policy,” Dr. Kaelin added. “Our research shows that countries which invest in diplomatic credibility, reciprocal openness, and international cooperation are rewarded with greater mobility for their citizens. Nations such as the UAE especially, through their steady and clear leadership, have prioritized tourism, trade, and global engagement as part of broader economic diversification strategies, helping drive successive improvements in visa-free access. The UAE exemplifies how a long-term, strategic approach to global engagement translates directly into passport power.”

Acube Abodes Realty becomes one of the first developers to break ground in Dubai for Altair 52 project at Dubai South

News 3 weeks ago

Dubai,January 13, 2026 : Acube Abodes Realty announces the successful groundbreaking ceremony of Altair 52, its latest premium residential development, located in the fast-growing master community of Dubai South. The milestone marks the official commencement of construction for the project, reinforcing the developer’s commitment to delivering high-quality, thoughtfully designed living spaces.

Through this ground-breaking ceremony, Altair 52 becomes one of the first residential projects to have commenced construction in the new year, marking a new beginning for Dubai’s high-growth real estate sector that has seen an unprecedented 215,700 property sales transaction last year worth Dh686.8 billion, according to data sourced from Dubai Land Department.

Property developers completed 42,784 residential units last year, up 45 per cent from 2024. Meanwhile, 177,624 new units were launched, a 6.1 per cent increase, ensuring a healthy pipeline into 2026.Apartments accounted for the bulk of activity, with 170,448 sales worth Dh332.9 billion, an increase of nearly 20 per cent. Villa sales rose 11.1 per cent to 34,671 units, totalling Dh206.9 billion.

Dubai’s property market is forecast to see a significant influx of approximately 120,000 new home delivery in 2026, a major increase from 2024/2025, signaling a shift towards a more mature market with greater buyer choice and potential price stabilization, though luxury segments remain strong. This large supply wave, driven by earlier launches, will test absorption, but historical delays mean actual deliveries might be lower than projections, softening immediate oversupply fears, with buyers becoming more discerning.

Setting the tone for the construction activities for 2026, Altair 52 is envisioned as a contemporary residential development that blends modern architecture, efficient layouts, and lifestyle-oriented amenities. It is strategically located in Dubai South. The project benefits from seamless connectivity to major highways and proximity to Al Maktoum International Airport, as well as its easy access to key commercial and logistics hubs such as the Jebel Ali Free Port and Free Zone that will see increased economic activities.

The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by senior management of Acube Abodes Realty, project consultants, contractors, and key stakeholders, symbolising a strong foundation built on trust, planning, and execution excellence.

Mr Akshay Agarwal Founder and CEO of Acube Abodes Realty, said: “The groundbreaking of Altair 52 represents a significant step forward in our journey as a developer. Dubai South continues to emerge as one of the most promising destinations in Dubai, and Altair 52 reflects our vision to create value-driven homes that combine design, functionality, and long-term investment potential.”

Designed to cater to both end-users and investors, Altair 52 will offer well-planned residential units complemented by modern amenities, landscaped spaces, and community-focused features, aligning with Dubai South’s vision of a sustainable and future-ready urban ecosystem.

Meanwhile, 70 percent of the residential units at Altair 52 has been sold out by the project’s master broker Golden Bricks, marking a significant achievement in the project’s progress that reflects customer confidence in Acube Abodes Realty. This also reflects Golden Bricks’ strong market presence, customer trust, and effective sales strategies, further establishing the company as a leading force in premium residential property brokerage.

The impressive response from buyers reflects the appeal of Altair 52’s modern design, strategic location, and lifestyle offerings, reinforcing Golden Bricks’ commitment to delivering exceptional real estate solutions.

Acube Abodes Realty has also announced that it will launch two new projects – Altair 72 and Altair 92 – in Dubai South. Akshay Agarwal Founder and CEO of Acube Abodes Realty, is also a Member of the Board of Directors at Arihant Group of Companies in Mumbai that carries a strong legacy of professional real estate development services that they have brought to the UAE.

Construction activities are now underway, with Acube Abodes Realty reaffirming its focus on timely delivery, quality standards, and customer satisfaction. Once completed in 2027, Altair 52 will deliver 52 well-appointed studios, one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments that comes with lots of lifestyle facilities and amenities.

UAE

Dubai Airport Welcomes Visitors with Dubai Cycling Pass Stickers Promoting Active Tourism

News 3 weeks ago

Dubai, January 13 , 2026 :
As part of an initiative to welcome tourists and visitors to a healthier lifestyle, welcome souvenir stickers featuring the “Dubai Cycling Pass” are now being distributed to passengers arriving at Dubai Airport. The initiative, launched by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), involves handing out welcome mementos embedded with a QR code to travelers arriving at Dubai International Airport.

The project is implemented under the theme “From Airport to Track,” with the aim of connecting visitors to the city’s sports and fitness culture from the moment they arrive in Dubai for tourism. By scanning the QR code on the sticker, passengers can access complete information about the Dubai Cycling Pass initiative. Details such as approved cycling tracks across the city, bicycle rental and sales centers, and other useful guidelines are available at their fingertips. Through this initiative, tourism goes beyond sightseeing to become an experience that promotes physical activity and well-being.

Health and an active lifestyle are key elements of Dubai’s tourism vision. Beyond luxury hotels and shopping destinations, open spaces connected to nature, cycling tracks, and walking paths are increasingly becoming major attractions in the city. The Dubai Cycling Pass represents a practical expression of this vision.

The project was inaugurated on January 10, 2026, at the Nad Al Sheba Cycling Track. In its first phase, nine selected, officially approved cycling tracks across different parts of the city have been included. The journey, which extends from tracks in the city center to routes surrounded by forests and desert landscapes, showcases Dubai’s geographical diversity along with its commitment to a health-friendly urban environment.

Key features of the initiative include a digital cycling passport, a virtual stamp system, a manual cycling passport, and symbolic gifts for active participants. The program is designed to consistently encourage both visitors and residents to engage in physical activities.

The General Directorate stated that the Dubai Cycling Pass will play a vital role in strengthening Dubai’s position as an active tourism destination, while also fostering health awareness within the community and promoting a sustainable lifestyle. The initiative, which brings together tourism and health culture, is seen as a clear reflection of Dubai’s future urban vision.

UAE

Invest in Sharjah Hosts Sharjah–India Business Roundtable to Boost Trade and Investment Ties

News 3 weeks ago

Sharjah , January 13, 2026 : The Sharjah FDI Office (Invest in Sharjah), in collaboration with the Indian Business and Professional Council in Sharjah, convened the Sharjah–India Business Roundtable to strengthen economic cooperation and expand joint investment opportunities between Sharjah and India.

The roundtable highlighted Sharjah’s growing role as a regional gateway for Indian businesses, with discussions focused on priority sectors including manufacturing, technology and logistics. Bilateral trade between Sharjah and India reached AED 14.39 billion in 2025, supported by the UAE–India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).

Sharjah currently hosts more than 41,000 Indian companies across free zones and the mainland, while Indian investments have generated over 3,600 jobs in the emirate over the past five years. Indian investor activity in Sharjah’s real estate sector totalled AED 6.1 billion over the past nine months.

Senior officials from Sharjah and India attending the roundtable reaffirmed confidence in continued growth in 2026, citing Sharjah’s stable regulatory environment, diversified economy and strong infrastructure. Speakers highlighted the emirate’s appeal for Indian companies seeking regional expansion and long-term investment opportunities.

The roundtable forms part of Invest in Sharjah’s strategy to strengthen partnerships with high-growth markets, attract quality foreign investment and reinforce Sharjah’s position as a competitive and sustainable business destination.