Month: February 2026

Dubai , February 2 , 2026 : ​LuLu Group today marked a significant milestone in its growth journey with the inauguration of its new Digital and Omnichannel Transformation Office in Dubai, officially launching LuLu 2.0 – the Group’s next phase of growth evolution firmly anchored in technology, artificial intelligence, innovation and a fully integrated omnichannel retail ecosystem.

Built on over five decades of customer trust in quality, value and service, ‘LuLu 2.0’ reflects the Group’s strategic response to changing market dynamics and evolving consumer expectations. The initiative brings together digital platforms, physical retail strength, advanced analytics and AI-driven capabilities to deliver seamless customer experiences across stores, mobile platforms and home delivery.

As the region’s number one full-line retailer, LuLu is leveraging its leadership position to shape the future of retail by creating a connected ecosystem where offline and online operate as one powerful omnichannel model.
The newly launched transformation office brings together an exceptional pool of global talent across technology, product innovation, analytics and digital operations, while also nurturing young professionals from UAE universities, building strong long-term digital capabilities within the Group.

A key highlight of LuLu 2.0 is the launch of Agentic Commerce, the first of its kind in the hypermarket segment across the entire MENA region, in partnership with Mastercard. This next-generation AI-powered shopping capability enables intelligent digital agents to assist customers in product discovery, personalised recommendations and secure payments, redefining the future of digital retail experiences.

Commenting on the milestone, Yusuffali M.A., Chairman of LuLu Group, said “LuLu 2.0 represents our commitment to continuously evolve with our customers and the changing world of retail, while remaining rooted in the trust and values that have defined us for more than five decades. Technology, AI, innovation and omnichannel retail are not separate initiatives, they are the foundation of how we are strengthening our core business for the future. By combining the strength of our physical network with world-class digital capabilities, we are building a smarter, more connected LuLu that will continue to lead retail transformation across the region.”

The LuLu 2.0 strategy focuses on owning customer relationships, digital platforms and data intelligence, enabling hyper-personalisation, intelligent supply chains, faster fulfilment and continuous innovation across all markets.

The Digital and Omnichannel Transformation Office will act as the central hub for developing next-generation retail solutions, including AI-enabled commerce, predictive analytics, digital payments, automation and enhanced customer engagement across channels.

The launch ceremony was attended by LuLu Group’s senior leadership including Yusuffali M.A., Chairman; Saifee Rupawala, CEO; Ashraf Ali M.A., Executive Director; Saleem V.I., COO; Global Directors Salim M.A. and Shabu Abdul Majeed; Yeshu Yarlagadda, Head of Omnichannel, V. Nandakumar, Director of  Marketing & Communications; Mohamed Anish, Chief Information Officer, along with senior management and key stakeholders from across the Group.

New York, February 2, 2026 : Gold prices declined on Monday, with spot gold dropping 1.5 percent to US$4,793.97 per ounce as of 08:46 GMT, after touching its lowest level in more than a week on Friday.

Gold reached a record high of US$5,594.82 on Thursday, while US gold futures for February delivery rose 1.6 percent to US$4,818.10 per ounce.

Spot silver gained 1.6 percent to US$85.98 an ounce, after reaching a record high of US$121.64 on Thursday.

Spot platinum fell 2 percent to US$2,120.05 per ounce after reaching a record US$2,918.80 on 26th January, while palladium declined 0.9 percent to US$1,682.59 per ounce.

Dubai , February 2, 2026 : Dubai’s health insurance system recorded significant growth in coverage indicators and operational activity during 2025 compared to 2024, reflecting the continued expansion of the system and its strong capacity to meet rising demand for healthcare services.

The latest data issued by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) showed that the number of beneficiaries covered under the system exceeded 4.9 million in 2025, compared to approximately 4.6 million in 2024, representing growth of around 6.5 percent.

The number of insurance claims rose to around 49.6 million, compared to 43.69 million claims in 2024, an increase of approximately 13.5 percent. The figures highlight the expanding utilisation of healthcare services provided under the system and confirm its ability to keep pace with Dubai’s population and economic growth.

The data also showed that Dubai’s health insurance network includes 3,936 healthcare providers, 140 insurance brokers, 43 insurance companies and 16 insurance claims management entities.

Asma Al Sharif, Chief Executive Officer of the Dubai Health Insurance Corporation at the DHA, said the operational performance recorded in 2025 reinforces confidence in the system’s infrastructure and its ability to respond proactively to increasing healthcare needs, supporting higher quality of life for the community.

Rome, February 2,2026 : Italy’s unemployment rate fell to 5.6 percent in December, marking the lowest level recorded since the statistical series began in 2004, according to provisional data released by Istat on Friday.

The Italian News Agency (ANSA) reported that the figure was 0.1 percentage point lower than the previous record of 5.7 percent, registered in November.

Istat said the number of people in employment stood at 24.142 million in December, down by 20,000 compared to November but up by 62,000 from December 2024.

The agency added that the employment rate eased to 62.5 percent, a decrease of 0.1 percentage point from the previous month.

Dubai, February 2, 2026 : The preliminary day of the World Governments Summit 2026 kicked off today in Dubai. The summit will officially take place from 3rd to 5th February under the theme “Shaping Future Governments.” The opening day is set to host a series of forums, ministerial meetings and roundtables, bringing together heads of state and government, senior officials, leaders of international organisations, futurists, thought leaders and experts.

Forums featured on the preliminary day of the summit include Annual Arab Fiscal Forum, the Young Arab Leaders Forum, the UAE-Kuwait Economic Forum, and the High-Level Investment Forum: Latin America and the Caribbean.

Ministerial meetings and roundtables include the Ministerial Roundtable with Arab Youth Ministers, Ministers of Labour in GCC Countries Ministerial Meeting, Accelerating 5X AI Transformation Dialogue, the CEO Dialogue and others.

Abu Dhabi, UAE – February 2, 2026 : Cancer Run™ 2026 Abu Dhabi edition, presented by Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi and organised by Plan b Group, has achieved a historic milestone by clinching a new Guinness World Records™ title for the Most Nationalities Participating in a Run. The landmark event, held on February 1, 2026, at Hudayriyat Island, brought together more than 5,000 participants representing 71 nationalities, united in a powerful show of solidarity against cancer.

Supported by the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, the event saw cancer warriors, families, fitness enthusiasts, and health advocates from diverse cultures run in unison, reinforcing the message of awareness, early detection, and healthy living. The record-breaking participation underscores the UAE’s commitment to inclusivity, community engagement, and public health advocacy.

Cancer Run™ has established itself as a unique annual campaign promoting regular cancer screening, awareness, and active lifestyles, aligning closely with the UAE’s vision of building a healthier and happier society. The initiative also complements Abu Dhabi’s recent advancements in cancer research and treatment, including the opening of a high-potency oncology drug manufacturing facility.

The day’s programme featured a series of community-driven activities, including a warm-up session led by Fitness First coaches, an energetic Zumba workout by Evolve Fitness, and a moving rendition of the UAE National Anthem performed by Emirati singer Mohamed Salem. Family-friendly entertainment such as mascots, balloon artists, and a bubble show further enhanced the inclusive atmosphere.

Cancer remains one of the most prevalent health challenges in the UAE and is the country’s third leading cause of death. According to the UAE National Cancer Registry, cancer accounts for 12.4 percent of total mortality nationwide. Data from the Abu Dhabi Public Health Center indicates that breast cancer was the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Abu Dhabi in 2023, while colorectal cancer recorded the highest number of cancer-related deaths in the emirate. These figures highlight the importance of initiatives such as Cancer Run™ in driving awareness and preventive action.

Participants were able to choose from 1km, 3km, 5km, and 10km race categories, ensuring accessibility for families, beginners, and professional athletes alike. Hydration stations and on-site medical support were provided throughout the routes to ensure safety and comfort.

Cancer Run™ 2026 was supported by a strong lineup of partners, including Modon, Abu Dhabi Media, Skechers, La Roche-Posay, Fitness First, Masafi, Lovin Abu Dhabi, Khaleej Times, Star FM, Emarat, whose collective efforts contributed significantly to the event’s success. Special recognition was also extended to Pocari Sweat, Al Jazira Sports and Cultural Club, Garmin, AMIT Care, Tangerine Entertainment, and Kibsons for their continued support.

Commenting on the achievement, Dr. Harmeek Singh, Founder and Chairman of Plan b Group, said:
“Cancer Run™ 2026 clearly embodies the vision of the UAE Government to build a unified society based on health and happiness. The Guinness World Records™ title reflects the power of collective action. At Hudayriyat Island, we witnessed people from all walks of life come together for a cause that impacts not just patients, but entire communities. We are grateful to our partners who helped bring this vision to life and inspire ongoing awareness nationwide.”

Following the success of the Abu Dhabi edition, the Dubai edition of Cancer Run™ 2026 is scheduled to take place on February 7, 2026, at Dubai Festival City, supported by the Dubai Sports Council. The organisers anticipate even greater participation and momentum.

Building on its milestone achievement, Cancer Run™ aims to return in 2027 with an expanded vision, welcoming more participants, strengthening cancer awareness campaigns, encouraging regular medical check-ups, and reinforcing the importance of healthy lifestyle choices in cancer prevention and management.

Dubai , February 2 , 2026 : Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) will offer 300 premium number plates featuring 2-, 3-, 4- and 5-digit combinations for private and classic vehicles, as well as motorcycles, through its 82nd online auction.

The auction will include plate numbers bearing the following codes: H, I, K, M, N, O, P, Q, R, S, T, U, V, W, X, Y and Z, covering private and classic vehicle categories.

Registration for the online auction will open on Monday, 2nd February, with bidding scheduled to start on Monday, 9th February, and to continue for seven days only. The sale of plate numbers will be subject to 5% Value Added Tax (VAT). Participation is open to customers holding a traffic file in the emirate.

Clear participation requirements and procedures apply. Bidders are required to submit a security cheque payable to RTA valued at AED 5,000, in addition to a non-refundable registration fee of AED 120. The registration fee may be paid at Customer Happiness Centres in Umm Ramool, Al Barsha and Deira, or by credit card via RTA’s website at www.rta.ae.

Successful bidders must settle the payable amount within 10 working daysfrom the close of the auction. Payment may be made at authorised service provider centres—in cash for amounts of up to AED 50,000, and by manager’s cheque or credit card for amounts exceeding AED 50,000—as well as at Customer Happiness Centres or via RTA’s website.