Month: October 2026

Dubai , October 10, 2026 : In his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, issued Law No. (20) of 2026 establishing the Dubai Orchestra Foundation.

The Foundation aims to advance the arts and orchestral music in Dubai, strengthen the emirate’s regional and international cultural standing, preserve local artistic heritage, and showcase the UAE’s musical excellence. It will also support the development of Dubai’s musical infrastructure, nurture local talent and contribute to the growth of orchestras across the emirate. Through these efforts, the Foundation will further strengthen the creative economy, reinforce Dubai’s position as a leading destination for culture, arts and cultural tourism, and encourage investment in the music and performing arts industries.

The Law sets out the Foundation’s key responsibilities, including establishing a local orchestra, participating in performances in the UAE and abroad, promoting Emirati musical heritage and supporting emerging talent, including People of Determination. The Foundation will develop an annual calendar of musical events, build local and international partnerships, support music education and production, host international orchestras, and strengthen collaboration with orchestras and cultural institutions around the world.

Under the Law, the Foundation will be governed by a Board of Trustees and supported by an executive body. The Board will comprise a Chairman, Vice Chairman and members with relevant expertise, appointed by the Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai. Its responsibilities include overseeing the Foundation’s operations, approving key policies, plans and budget, and appointing the CEO and Artistic Director.

According to the Law, the executive body will comprise the CEO alongside administrative, financial and technical

staff. The CEO will report directly to the Board and will be responsible for managing the Foundation’s Day to day operations and implementing its approved plans and programmes.

The Law also requires government entities to cooperate with and support the Foundation in carrying out its responsibilities, in accordance with the relevant regulations and directives of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, and the Community Development Authority. The Chairman of the Board will issue the decisions required to implement the Law.

The Law takes effect from the date of its publication in the Official Gazette.

These new initiatives will put the UAE in the lead in global financial architecture and reinforce the country’s position in innovation and financial technology

Dubai​, October 09, 2026​ : The UAE Central Bank is currently executing 35 financial projects that, once implemented, will change the way consumers use money, according to officials and experts who spoke at a conference titled: The Future of Money, organised by the Dubai Chapter of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI).

“The real meaning of money has changed a lot in the last three decades – from bank notes to ‘plastic money’ or credit and debit cards and we have now entered into an environment of cashless transactions,” CA Rishi Chawla, Chairman of the Dubai Chapter of the ICAI, said in his opening remarks at the conference.

“In the coming years, digital currencies are going to change the way we see and use money. In fact the meaning of money is also changing as we embrace the Fourth Industrial Revolution where everything is going to become digital and virtual – including money. This is why, we need to examine the changing financial landscape and adjust our way of dealing with money.”

The UAE has already implemented 104 financial projects under the Phase I of its Financial Infrastructure Transformation (FIT) Programme in recent years to adapt to the changing global financial eco-system since the COVID-19 pandemic, including the launch of the UAE Switch – the domestic payment gateway. 

The FIT Programme aims to support financial services sector, promote digital transactions, and enable the UAE’s competitiveness to become the financial and digital payment hub and a centre of excellence for innovation and digital transformation through encouraging innovation and collaboration as well as competition in the financial sector.

Jamal Al Saleh, Secretary-General of the UAE Banking Federation (UBF), says, “As per the UAE Government’s Vision, all public services will be available on smartphones. The banks in the UAE are also aligning and evolving in line with the government’s vision by embracing technology and integrating the latest fintech solutions into their payment systems to offer maximum flexibility to their customers.

“The UAE Central Bank is now getting ready to roll out the Phase II of the FIT Programme that will bring the digital currency into the UAE payment gateway – that will change the way consumers make payment for their purchases.

“The UAE Central Bank, the UBF and the banks are currently working on to introduce E-guarantees and E-Cheques – that will change the entire payment eco-system as businesses are now registering for E-Invoicing as well.”

An e-cheque (electronic check) is a digital version of a paper check that moves funds directly between bank accounts using electronic networks like the Automated Clearing House (ACH) system. According to Nacha (the governing body for the US ACH network), the entire network handled 35.2 billion transactions valued at US$93 trillion in 2025.

He said, the way Artificial Intelligence (AI) is growing, the country needs to regulate the AI sector and the auditing and financial community needs to cope up with AI as well.

The conference, attended by more than 500 members of ICAI, featured keynote addresses by eminent speakers who appraised the audience on the speed in which AI is changing the economic environment.

Abdallah Abu-Sheikh, Founder & CEO Mal, UAE, said, “We are witnessing a tectonic shift in work driven by AI. People no longer need to know how to design, compute or calculate. There are AI tools to do that.

“Today, your bank account will tell you when to apply for a loan and how much loan your business might need to seek to manage growth. Most accounting firms will become a trading platform – to raise bills as accounting will be managed by AI tools. Your bank account will self-audit itself. So, we are entering a completely new world of automation driven by AI.”

With more than 3,200 members, ICAI Dubai Chapter is the largest business group in the UAE. Established in 1982, it is also the largest, most active and award-winning chapter among the 44 overseas chapters of ICAI. It has registered a phenomenal growth in membership has exceeded 3,200 members who represent more than 1,550 multinationals and other companies.

In order to fully automise payment and auditing, businesses will rely on regulated digital escrow eco-system for transparency and accountability in business transactions.

Parvez Akram Siddiqui, Co-Founder of TrustIn, said: “TrustIn is a first-of-its-kind fully digital, regulated escrow-as-a-service platform, making secure transaction infrastructure accessible to the mass market across services, marketplaces, supply chains, M&A and other commercial use cases.”

ICAI is the largest professional body of Chartered Accountants across the world with over 1,000,000+ students and around 450,000+ members. ICAI has a wide network with five Regional Councils, 176 Branches, 54 Overseas Chapters, and 31 representative offices across the globe. And among 54 overseas chapters, ICAI Dubai Chapter is the largest and most vibrant chapter of ICAI. Of the 8,000 Indian Chartered Accountants active in the UAE‘s private sector, 1,400+ are currently leading businesses in senior positions.

When the going gets tough, the team Atrangi did what Dubai does best — they Dubai’d it. For owner Aziz Merchant and Chef Ritu Dalmia, this year’s MICHELIN recognition is also a story about resilience. The year brought extraordinary challenges for the hospitality industry. Atrangi chose to stay open and did not make anyone redundant. It did not place its employees on unpaid leave.

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Dubai,  October 08, 2026​ : Three years after opening its doors at Jumeirah Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah, Atrangi by Ritu Dalmia has once again been recognised in the Michelin Guide as a Michelin Selected Restaurant, marking its 3rd consecutive year of recognition since opening in 2023.

The UAE has 26,795 restaurants and cafes, including 13,000 in Dubai, according to a latest report. As of the 2026 selections, there are 178 total Michelin-recognised restaurants across the UAE, including 122 in Dubai and 56 in Abu Dhabi.

The UAE food service market reached nearly US$8.71 billion to US$23.21 billion in 2025 (with the broader food products market valued at US$15.68 billion), driven by heavy tourism, an expatriate population of over 200 nationalities, and rapid tech integration

The Michelin Guide unveiled the fifth edition of its Dubai selection at a ceremony held at Atlantis The Royal. With 122 restaurants representing 38 cuisine types, this edition celebrates Dubai’s growing global culinary credentials. From homegrown neighbourhood eateries to glamorous fine dining destinations, the selection reveals a culinary scene that continues to develop and expand apace.

For Atrangi, three consecutive years of Michelin recognition is not simply a measure of what happens on the plate. It represents four years of consistency, creativity and an unwavering commitment to its guests, its people and its craft. But in 2026, the recognition carries a deeper meaning.

For owner Aziz Merchant and Chef Ritu Dalmia, this year’s Michelin recognition is also a story about resilience. The year brought extraordinary challenges for the hospitality industry, with regional uncertainty and war-related crises placing pressure on travel, tourism, consumer confidence and businesses across the region.

Atrangi chose to stay open. The restaurant did not close for a single day. It did not make a single member of its team redundant. It did not place its employees on unpaid leave. And it did not delay or reduce salaries. Instead, Atrangi continued to welcome guests, operate its kitchen and dining room, introduce a new menu and, most importantly, stand together with the team that has been at the heart of its journey since opening.

That decision reflects something deeply aligned with the character of the city in which Atrangi operates. Dubai has built its success on resilience — the ability to face uncertainty, adapt quickly and keep moving forward.

Dubai’s leadership has consistently placed agility, collaboration and resilience at the heart of the emirate’s economic and tourism strategy. In 2026, economic-support measures introduced by the Dubai Government further demonstrated the importance placed on helping businesses and the hospitality sector navigate challenging circumstances while sustaining growth.

Aziz Merchant, Owner of Atrangi by Ritu Dalmia, said: “Dubai teaches you not to give up. We have been fortunate to operate in a city led by wise, caring and decisive leadership that understands the importance of business continuity, hospitality and, above all, people.”

Since opening in 2023, Atrangi has remained a Michelin Selected restaurant for three consecutive years. Its culinary identity is deeply rooted in India, but shaped by memories rather than convention. Chef Ritu Dalmia draws inspiration from the kitchens, traditions and stories of grandmothers from different Indian communities, creating food that is as much about emotion and memory as it is about technique.

Chef Ritu Dalmia said: “Atrangi has always been about the emotion behind food. This year reinforced for us that hospitality is ultimately about people. We are incredibly proud of our team, and to have remained together through a difficult period makes this year’s Michelin recognition especially meaningful. Our 2026 story resonates deeply with the values that have helped define Dubai as a global destination.”
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Dubai , October 9, 2026 : The Customer Council of Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) hosted a dialogue session at Al Ghubaiba Bus Station, attended by a group of bus, marine transport and Dubai Metro users, to hear their views, suggestions and future expectations. Participants were welcomed by several CEOs, directors, managers and employees from the relevant RTA agencies and sectors.

The session reflects RTA’s commitment to strengthening direct communication channels with public transport users, taking notice of their views and expectations on the services provided, studying them, and offering appropriate solutions to enhance customer experience and boost happiness and satisfaction level with RTA services.

During the session, participants were introduced to key services, initiatives, communication channels and digital applications available to them. The session aimed to engage public transport users in service development by giving feedback, needs and suggestions first-hand. These insights are studied with a view to improving the mobility experience and align services with the needs of various community segments.

The Council discussed several topics and proposals related to bus and marine transport services. Key suggestions included increasing the frequency of trips and buses on selected high-demand routes, adding more air-conditioned bus shelters, broadening the range of uses for nol cards, studying an extension of Dubai Metro operating hours, boosting marine transport trips, and introducing new routes and services.

At the close of the session, customers expressed appreciation for RTA’s organisation of such dialogue sessions, which offer an opportunity for direct engagement with RTA officials and for sharing comments and suggestions. They also commended RTA’s commitment to listening to public transport users and involving them in the ongoing development of services and enhancement of the mobility experience in Dubai.

The UAE Pavilion welcomed 1,208 visitors on the opening day of Marrakech Airshow 2026, with seven leading UAE defence entities showcasing their capabilities at the Royal Moroccan Air Force Base during the four-day event held under the patronage of King Mohammed VI.

Supported by the Ministry of Defence and the Tawazun Council for Defence Enablement, and organised by ADNEC Group, a Modon company, the UAE Pavilion brings together national entities including the Ministry of Defence, EDGE Group, Generation 5, Multi Level Group (MLG), Resource Industries, Nation Shield and Al Jundi Journal, under a unified national platform, enabling them to engage directly with international buyers, industry leaders, government representatives and military delegations.

On its opening day, the UAE National Pavilion welcomed official delegations, reflecting strong international interest in the UAE’s defence and aerospace industries. The pavilion also attracted significant engagement from senior leaders and representatives across the global defence and security sectors, underscoring the exhibition’s role as a leading platform for dialogue, knowledge exchange and international cooperation.

Notable visitors to the Pavilion on its opening day included, from the United Arab Emirates, Major General Staff Mohammed Salem Al Hameli, Deputy Commander of the UAE Air Force and Air Defence; and from the Kingdom of Morocco, Ryad Mezzour, Minister of Industry and Trade; Abdellatif Loudyi, Minister Delegate for the Administration of National Defence; Lieutenant General Mohammed Berrid, Inspector General of the Royal Armed Forces and Commander of the Southern Zone; Rear Admiral Mohamed Tahin, Inspector of the Royal Moroccan Navy; and Major General Mohammed Gadih, Inspector of the Royal Moroccan Air Force.

The Pavilion also hosted 23 meetings between UAE entities, industry leaders and government representatives on the day, exploring opportunities for future collaboration and strengthening international ties between UAE national entities and the international defence and security industry.

Individually, EDGE held five meetings, Generation 5 two, Multi Level Group (MLG) five, and Resource Industries eleven, with international buyers, industry leaders and government representatives.

Capital Events, the event management arm of ADNEC Group, held 15 meetings during the Marrakech Airshow to promote the upcoming editions of the International Defence Exhibition (IDEX), Naval Defence & Maritime Security Exhibition (NAVDEX), and the accompanying International Defence Conference 2027.

Taking place from 25th to 29th January 2027, IDEX and NAVDEX 2027 are set to be the largest editions in the events’ history. In addition, 10 meetings were held to promote the Unmanned Systems Exhibition (UMEX) 2028, and nine meetings were held to promote the International Exhibition for National Security and Resilience (ISNR), reflecting the growing international appeal of Abu Dhabi’s defence and security event portfolio.

The strong interest generated during the Marrakech Airshow further reinforces the global stature of IDEX, NAVDEX and ISNR, with numerous exhibitors, industry leaders and defence companies expressing their interest in participating in the 2027 editions. The events are expected to welcome a record number of exhibitors and visitors, further strengthening their position among the world’s leading defence and security exhibitions.

Held every two years, Marrakech Airshow has grown since its inception in 2008 into Morocco’s flagship aerospace event and a reference gathering for the global civil, military and space industries.

Dubai​, October​ 7​,  2026:The Supreme Committee for Urban Planning, in coordination with​ Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Dubai​  Municipality, has launched a new visual identity and enhanced​  addressing system for areas across the Emirate of Dubai. The initiative

includes the installation and replacement of area identification signs,​  internal street name signs, and house number plates, featuring unified
designs and colours that reflect the geographic characteristics of each​ area.
Developed through a specialist consultant in wayfinding and addressing​ design, the new system will help facilitate the identification of locations​ and improve accessibility, while enhancing the visual appeal of streets,
residential neighbourhoods, and commercial districts.
The launch forms part of efforts to establish an integrated and clear​ addressing system that keeps pace with Dubai’s rapid urban
development. Going beyond its traditional wayfinding role, the new system​ is designed to become an integral component of the visual identity of​ Dubai’s areas, while contributing to the enhancement of streets and road​ facilities and highlighting the geographic and urban characteristics that​ distinguish communities across the emirate.

The implementation plan covers 186 areas distributed across 19​ sectors throughout Dubai, under a phased programme that will begin in
the fourth quarter of 2026 and continue through 2030. The first phase of​ the project will commence this year and will include the installation and​ replacement of more than 2,000 signs across five areas: Za’abeel 1,​ Za’abeel 2, Nad Al Sheba, Al Khawaneej 1, and Nazwa, in accordance​ with the approved visual identity for each area.
The new visual identity incorporates five colours specifically designed to​ reflect the character and geographic features of Dubai’s various areas,​ providing each with a distinctive visual signature while maintaining a clear​ and consistent addressing system across the emirate. The selected​ colours have been carefully aligned with the nature of each area. For​ example, blue represents areas located close to the sea, while gold​ symbolises areas characterised by a desert environment, reflecting the​ diversity of Dubai’s landscapes and urban fabric.
The new identity encompasses sector and area identification signs,​ internal street name signs, and house number plates, with designs and
colour schemes developed to achieve visual integration across all​ components of the addressing system. Future project deliverables will
extend the identity to bus stops, smart applications, and area map boards.​ 
In addition, QR codes will be introduced to provide information about​  sectors and areas, the meanings behind street and area names, points of​ interest, and other relevant location-related content.
In coordination with Dubai Municipality, RTA has established a set of​ criteria to determine implementation priorities across the emirate. These
include urban growth and population density, the vibrancy and centrality of​ areas, the presence of residential and tourist attractions, and the
proportion of streets that have not yet been formally addressed. This​ approach ensures that project implementation aligns with urban
development trends and the needs of residents across Dubai.
As part of the continued rollout of the new addressing identity, RTA has​ coordinated with Dubai Municipality to complete and approve the final
designs for house number plates. These plates will feature each​ property's Makani number and corresponding QR Code, with colours
harmonised with those of the new addressing signs to enhance visual​  integration, reinforce a unified identity, and further facilitate location
identification.

Nature-Led Living and Resort-Style Amenities to the Heart of Dubai

Dubai, October 7, 2026: Hazza Zaal, CEO of Al Barari and Founder of Elemental Developments, has launched Elemental 78, a completed boutique residential development that brings nature-led design and resort-style amenities to Jumeirah Garden City.
Featuring a limited collection of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, Elemental 78 carries the philosophy behind Al Barari into an urban setting. Climbing greenery, mature planting and thoughtfully landscaped spaces connect residents with nature throughout the building, shaping an environment centred on comfort, wellbeing and everyday living.
A defining feature of the development is its collection of resort-style amenities. The rooftop swimming pool and private cabanas create a setting for relaxation above the city, complemented by a miniature garden, viewing deck and dedicated yoga space. A Technogym-equipped gym supports daily fitness, while landscaped lounges and a koi pond bring moments of calm to the shared spaces.
Designed for families, couples and individuals alike, the development also features indoor and outdoor children’s play areas and a family barbecue area equipped with digital screens and cooling provisions. Together, these spaces make leisure, movement and time with loved ones part of life at home.
The residences extend this attention to detail through considered layouts, refined finishes and carefully selected materials. With construction complete and show apartments open, prospective buyers can experience the homes, amenities and surrounding environment firsthand.
Located in the heart of Dubai, Elemental 78 places residents approximately nine minutes from City Walk, five minutes from J1 Beach, five minutes from Downtown Dubai and 15 minutes from Dubai International Airport.
Speaking about the launch, Hazza Zaal, Founder of Elemental Developments and CEO of Al Barari, said:
“As cities grow, access to nature becomes increasingly important to how people live and feel. At Elemental 78, greenery has shaped the development from the outset, influencing the architecture, shared spaces and everyday residential experience. The ambition is to carry the philosophy behind Al Barari into the city, creating homes that bring nature, comfort and thoughtful design closer to daily life.”
He added:
“Jumeirah Garden City is an area that is very dear to me. It offers a central location with close connections to some of Dubai’s most established destinations. With Elemental 78, we wanted to complement that connectivity with a sense of retreat at home. From the rooftop pool and cabanas to the gardens and spaces for gathering, every amenity has been considered around how people spend their time and what makes that time meaningful.”
As Elemental Developments’ first ready-to-move-in project, Elemental 78 marks a significant milestone for the company and provides a tangible expression of its approach to residential development. Its completion at launch allows homeowners and investors to assess the finished project and experience the quality of its design and execution directly.
Elemental Developments will continue to focus on boutique residential projects shaped by their individual locations, with nature, wellbeing and considered design at the centre of its growing portfolio.
For sales enquiries, call 800 153. For marketing enquiries, email marketing@albarari.ae.

Dubai , October 7, 2026 : Binghatti announced that global football star Karim Benzema has acquired several residential units within Mercedes-Benz Places | Binghatti City, including a luxury residence at Vision Iconic Tower, the largest tower within the masterplan. The announcement was made during the grand launch of Vision Iconic Tower at Coca-Cola Arena, Dubai, attended by prominent business leaders, leading investors and VIP guests.

The event featured the official signing between Karim Benzema and Abdullah Binghatti, Chief Sales Officer of Binghatti, in the presence of Muhammad Binghatti, Chairman of Binghatti, alongside senior dignitaries and members of the Board of Directors. The acquisition comes amid strong sales momentum for Binghatti, driven by growing demand for its developments among global celebrities, international investors and high-net-worth individuals from around the world.
Vision Iconic Tower is the largest tower within Mercedes-Benz Places | Binghatti City and one of the masterplan’s most prominent architectural landmarks. Rising across 78 floors, the tower comprises 1,426 residences, ranging from one- to five-bedroom homes and royal suites, in addition to 27 retail outlets, on a plot spanning approximately 239,844 sq. ft.

The tower offers expansive views across Dubai, including the Burj Khalifa, Meydan Racecourse and Dubai Creek Harbour. It also features more than 30 world-class amenities, led by an Infinity Pool spanning 177,328 sq. ft., with a footprint exceeding that of an Olympic-size swimming pool.

Commenting on the occasion, Muhammad Binghatti, Chairman of Binghatti, said: “French football star Karim Benzema’s decision to invest in Binghatti developments reflects the position the company has achieved and its ability to create projects that attract a broad segment of international investors and prominent celebrities.

Our ambition has always been to introduce a distinctive approach to real estate development one that originates in Dubai and reaches the world, bringing together distinctive design, exceptional quality and partnerships with global brands, while giving Binghatti developments a distinctive identity and value in global markets.”

Abdullah Binghatti, Chief Sales Officer of Binghatti, added: “This acquisition reflects Binghatti’s ability to attract globally recognised names of the calibre of Karim Benzema. His decision to acquire several residences within Mercedes-Benz Places | Binghatti City, including a residence at Vision Iconic Tower, further demonstrates the strong international demand for our developments.

These projects bring together distinctive real estate offerings, globally recognised brands and strategic locations key considerations for international investors seeking high-quality opportunities in Dubai’s property market.”

Sharjah , October 6, 2026 : The Sharjah Training and Development Center (STDC), affiliated with the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), organised Oxford and Cambridge Strategic Leadership Programme for employees of government and private-sector entities in Sharjah.

The programme is part of STDC’s efforts to provide specialised international programmes that strengthen leadership capabilities, build organisational readiness, and equip professionals to navigate the rapidly evolving business environment and contemporary developments.

As part of the programme, the renowned Lady Margaret Hall at the University of Oxford hosted a segment of the training, providing participants with an integrated learning experience that combined workshops, leadership sessions, field visits, and cultural activities. The sessions featured leading academics and experts from the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge.

The training programme covered key areas including leadership in the age of artificial intelligence, technological transformation in the workplace, governance, change management, and strategic decision-making. It also focused on leadership identity and organisational culture, industrial sustainability, and cybersecurity in an AI-driven environment, as well as leadership approaches for navigating uncertainty, crises, and complex challenges.

The programme featured a series of visits and practical experiences designed to bridge academic learning with international institutional practices.

Participants visited the BMW MINI Plant in Oxford, the Oxford University Press (OUP), and the Moller Institute at Churchill College, University of Cambridge, complemented by educational and cultural tours across both cities.

Maryam Saif Al Shamsi, Assistant Director-General of the Support Services Sector at SCCI, said the Oxford and Cambridge Strategic Leadership Programme reflects SCCI’s commitment to providing contemporary training programmes that strengthen leadership capabilities and equip leaders to navigate workplace transformations effectively.

She noted that international programmes provide an important opportunity to gain insights into global experiences and best practices and facilitate knowledge exchange and expertise, thereby enhancing institutional performance and supporting organisational excellence and sustainability.

Amal Abdullah Al Ali, Director of the Sharjah Training and Development Center, affirmed that the programme reflects STDC’s commitment to developing international learning experiences that extend beyond conventional training models.

She explained that STDC designed an integrated experience combining contemporary leadership knowledge, practical application, and first-hand exposure to the practices and approaches of leading international institutions.

Al Ali added that that programme’s focus on AI, technological transformation, sustainability, governance, and change management was driven by the need to develop more agile and future-ready leaders capable of anticipating emerging trends and creating meaningful impact within their organisations.

The programme’s key themes are particularly relevant due to their direct connection to the latest developments in artificial intelligence and technological transformation, equipping participants with new approaches to delivering business and professional tasks. These range from data analysis and decision-making support to process simplification, service acceleration, and the effective adoption of smart tools tailored to the requirements of each field.

The programme concluded with a ceremony honouring the participants, who expressed their appreciation for the training themes and content. The event brought to a close a week-long international leadership and learning experience designed to translate acquired knowledge into practical practices and lasting organisational impact, promote more efficient resource utilisation, and strengthen the protection of data and digital assets that form the foundation of customer and partner trust.