Year: 2026

• 2,395 violations recorded, with 451 cases fully rectified and strict measures taken against 466 cases. 

• More than 800 inspection visits conducted across Al Warqa residential areas specificallyto monitor building use, occupancy violations and unauthorised construction works.

• Daily inspections support early identification of violations and follow-up on required corrective measures.

• Inspection efforts aim to strengthen compliance and address practices that may affect residents’ safety and the quality of the residential environment.

Dubai , September 25, 2026 : Dubai Municipality has conducted more than 16,000 inspection visits across residential areas in the emirate since the beginning of 2026, including more than 800 visits across Al Warqa residential areas, as part of its ongoing monitoring of construction activities and building use.

The inspections aim to identify violations at an early stage, follow up on corrective measures and strengthen compliance among property owners and occupants, while addressing practices that may affect residents’ safety, building integrity and the quality of the residential environment.

Dubai Municipality’s field teams recorded 2,395 violations, of which 451 cases have been fully rectified, while 1,478 cases are currently completing the required corrective measures. The Municipality has also taken strict measures in 466 cases and continues to follow up on outstanding violations until the required corrective actions are completed within the specified time frames.

Eng. Maryam Al Muhairi, CEO of the Building Regulation and Permits Agency at Dubai Municipality, said: “Dubai Municipality continues to strengthen its field inspection system through daily monitoring visits, ongoing oversight and enhanced mechanisms for following up on reported observations.

“Our objective is to prevent non-compliant practices, raise compliance levels and safeguard public safety while preserving the urban character of residential areas. These efforts support Dubai’s continued development as a safe, well-regulated and sustainable urban environment that enhances quality of life for residents.”

The most prominent violations identified included bachelor accommodation in areas where it is not permitted, occupancy of a single residential unit by multiple families, and construction works or alterations carried out without the required permits. Specialised teams assess each case according to its nature and potential impact, with priority given to violations that may affect the safety of residents or surrounding properties.

Building owners are required to comply with the approved uses of residential buildings and villas and refrain from renting properties to bachelors or multiple families in areas where such occupancy is not permitted. They must also obtain the required permits and approvals before undertaking construction works or alterations and ensure that building occupancy complies with applicable regulations and requirements.

These measures support structural safety, regulate the use of residential properties and help limit practices that may affect the character and quality of residential neighbourhoods.

Dubai Municipality also emphasised the importance of community cooperation in reporting observations related to non-compliant practices through its official channels. Public reportingsupports inspection efforts and enables faster response to potential violations, contributing to safer and better-regulated residential areas across Dubai.

Abu Dhabi,​ September 25, 2026:Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) announced it has set up its SWIFT Business Identifier Code (BIC), ADSEAEADXXX, and is now part of the global SWIFT network.

The activation of SWIFT connectivity marks a significant milestone in the ongoing enhancement of ADX’s post-trade infrastructure and reinforces its position as a globally connected marketplace.

Through the SWIFT network, ADX can facilitate secure, standardised, and internationally recognised financial messaging with custodians, central securities depositories (CSDs), international central securities depositories (ICSDs), and other market participants worldwide.

This strategic development will strengthen ADX’s connectivity with the global financial ecosystem, enabling more efficient cross-border interactions and supporting international investors seeking seamless access to the UAE’s capital markets. It will also provide a robust foundation for future market infrastructure initiatives, further enhancing operational efficiency, interoperability, and global market accessibility.

The addition of the ADX to the SWIFT network aligns with the exchange’s broader strategy of expanding its international reach, deepening engagement with global institutions, and supporting Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading international financial centre.

The new centre marks Hotpack’s fifth Sales Centre in Abu Dhabi, expanding access to its packaging solutions for retail and HoReCa businesses and consumers across the emirate. 

Abu Dhabi,​ September 25, 2026: Hotpack, a UAE-headquartered global leader in sustainable packaging solutions, has expanded its physical presence with the opening of its 22^nd Sales Centre in Baniyas, Abu Dhabi. The new showroom will help retail, HoReCa (Hotels, Restaurants, and Catering) businesses and individual consumers in the locality to better source the broad range of Hotpack’s packaging portfolio, said the company in a statement. 

The new showroom, marking another milestone in Hotpack’s continued expansion across the UAE, was opened in the presence of senior leaders of the compmnay and dignitaries including Sheikh Salem bin Qahran Al-Menhali, Ghazi Saleh Saleem Hasan Al-Menhali, Mohammed Abdo Al Ameri and Zayed Al-Amoudi.

Commenting on the expansion, Mr. Abdul Jabbar PB, Group CEO & Managing Director, Hotpack, said, “The opening of our 22^nd Sales Centre and the fifth showroom in Abu Dhabi, is an important milestone in Hotpack’s continued growth in the UAE. We are pleased to extend our retail presence to Baniyas and bring our products and services closer to more customers and businesses in the emirate.” 

“As a business that has grown alongside the UAE for more than three decades, we value the ecosystem that encourages entrepreneurship, industrial growth and sustainable expansion. The UAE has consistently provided businesses with the confidence and support to expand, innovate and build for the long term. With the UAE’s industrial push, clear sustainability policies and strong local demand, businesses like ours can plan for the long term and keep investing,” he added.  

Mr. Zainudeen PB, Group Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Executive Director of Hotpack, said, “The Sales Centre will offer Hotpack’s extensive range of packaging solutions, including food packaging, disposable products, bags, films, containers and other products catering to food service, retail and everyday needs. This will help us extend our customer-facing network alongside its manufacturing, distribution and digital capabilities.”  

“With 96 per cent of Hotpack’s product portfolio comprising sustainable products, the centre will also provide customers with a wide selection of recyclable and eco-friendly packaging options, making it easier for businesses and consumers to choose solutions that meet their functional requirements while supporting more sustainable packaging practices,” he added.

Mr. Anwar PB, Group Chief Technology Officer (CTO) and Executive Director at Hotpack, said, “The Baniyas Sales Centre is open to walk-in customers and business accounts, with product information and bulk ordering available via Hotpack’s UAE webstore and customer service team.” 

“The opening of the Baniyas Sales Centre strengthens Hotpack’s retail network in the UAE and underlines its continued investment in the market where the company began its journey,” he added. 

Founded in Dubai in 1995, Hotpack has grown from a UAE-based business into an international packaging company with 25 manufacturing facilities worldwide, including 13 across the UAE, operations in 17 countries and exports to 107 countries. The company caters to both B2B and B2C customers and offers a portfolio of more than 4,500 products across paper, aluminium, plastics, biodegradable materials and other packaging solutions.

 Abudhabi , September 25, 2026 : The ‘Daughters of Zayed’ Emirati Women Forum, hosted by SEHA, a subsidiary of PureHealth, at the Zayed National Museum, showcased inspiring experiences of Emirati women, highlighting the importance of well-being, family support, legal awareness and intergenerational learning in strengthening women’s presence and contributions across various fields.

Organised in collaboration with the Emirati Women Chapter (EWC) as part of the UAE’s Emirati Women’s Day 2026 celebrations, the forum discussed a number of themes related to women’s journeys and their role in society, including physical and mental well-being, family relationships and empowerment, along with the importance of creating a supportive environment that enables women to continue their development and pursue their ambitions.

The sessions highlighted the experiences of Emirati leaders and figures working across healthcare, law, sport and entrepreneurship. The speakers shared personal and professional experiences, highlighting the support that enabled them to develop their capabilities, progress and contribute in their respective fields.

The discussions also highlighted the importance of intergenerational learning and how values, knowledge and experience are passed between Emirati women, enabling younger generations to benefit from and build on the experiences of those before them in line with future aspirations.

Sheikha Moza bint Khalifa bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, Ambassador of Elderly Initiatives at PureHealth, said, “The progress of Emirati women is built on generations of knowledge, experience and ambition, and each generation has an important role in carrying that legacy forward. Creating opportunities for younger and senior women to learn from one another strengthens this continuity, while investing in women’s health and well-being enables them to remain active contributors throughout every stage of life. By supporting women to thrive, we strengthen not only individuals, but families, communities and the continued progress of our nation.”

Dr. Shamsa Al Mheiri, Director of EWC and Special Projects at PureHealth, said, “This year’s theme, ‘We Emerge Stronger and Better’, carries even greater significance amid the challenges and changes facing the region. It affirms that the strength of Emirati women lies in their ability to adapt, persevere, and make an impact.”

She added, “Through the programme, we continue to support women throughout every stage of life by strengthening their health, well-being, and leadership capabilities, along with connecting the experiences of one generation to the potential of the next. The EWC’s third cohort has welcomed 120 participants, with participation increasing by more than 94 percent. This growth represents more than the expansion of the programme; it reflects a more connected and future-ready community of women. Whatever challenges arise, we believe this community will emerge stronger, more resilient, and better equipped to create lasting impact within families, workplaces, and society.”

Dr. Hamda Al Neyadi, Corporate Marketing and Communications Director at SEHA, said, “At SEHA, we believe every woman has a story worth telling, and that sharing her experience can inspire another woman and show her that ambition is within reach. We also believe that caring for women and supporting their physical and mental health creates an impact that extends far beyond the individual, strengthening families and communities alike.”

The discussions considered how the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan recognised women as active partners in society and national development, as well as how that vision continues to shape opportunities for successive generations.

The forum concluded by emphasising the importance of sustained support from families, communities and institutions in enabling Emirati women to continue learning, developing and leading, contributing to generations capable of continuing the nation’s development journey.

Abudhabi , September 25, 2026 : Burjeel Holdings has introduced AI-powered Cath Labs at Burjeel Hospital Abu Dhabi and Burjeel Specialty Hospital, Sharjah, expanding its capabilities in complex cardiovascular and image-guided interventions.

The new facilities feature Siemens Healthineers’ ARTIS icono.vision platform, which combines artificial intelligence, high-definition imaging, advanced 3D visualisation and real-time procedural guidance. The technology gives physicians clearer views of complex anatomy and additional guidance while navigating technically demanding procedures.

Designed as multidisciplinary facilities, the Cath Labs will support teams across Interventional Cardiology, Structural Heart Services, Vascular Surgery, Interventional Radiology, Neurointerventional Procedures, and other specialties that rely on image-guided procedures.

The technology can support a broad range of procedures, including complex coronary interventions, chronic total occlusion procedures, structural heart interventions, peripheral vascular therapies, embolisation procedures, interventional oncology treatments and advanced aortic repairs.

A key feature of the platform is OPTIQ AI, which uses AI-based analysis of live images to dynamically adjust imaging parameters and automatically reduce background noise in real time. This helps maintain high image quality even at very low radiation doses, supporting the ALARA principle of keeping radiation exposure as low as reasonably achievable while preserving the image quality required for the procedure.

The platform also provides full 200-degree rotational 3D imaging, rapid 3D acquisitions, flexible ceiling-rail positioning, and system positioning precision of better than 0.5 mm. These capabilities give physicians greater flexibility during complex interventions.

Dr. Georgie Thomas, Consultant Interventional Cardiologist and Head of Department at Burjeel Hospital Abu Dhabi, said, “In complex interventions, having a clear and accurate view of the anatomy throughout the procedure is critical. The new system gives us enhanced imaging and guidance when navigating challenging cases, while also helping us manage radiation and contrast use. With the additional Cath Lab capacity, we can treat more patients and expand the range of advanced procedures available at the hospital.”

Sharjah , September 24, 2026 : Sharjah Electricity, Water and Gas Authority (SEWA) has announced the completion of two 220/132 kV electricity transmission projects at a cost exceeding AED 341.493 million.

This comes as part of its strategic plan to develop the power network and meet growing energy demand driven by the emirate’s rapid urban and industrial expansion.

SEWA also affirmed that work is continuing on 13 major projects scheduled for completion in the upcoming period, with a total cost exceeding AED 725.292 million. The projects aim to enhance the efficiency and stability of the electricity network in line with the highest international standards.

Strengthening Sharjah’s power network

Hamad Al Tunaiji, Director of the Power Transmission Department at SEWA, explained that the projects are being implemented in accordance with the vision and directives of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and with the continuous follow-up of H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah .

The projects also form part of SEWA’s ongoing efforts and strategy, implemented under the supervision and follow-up of Saeed Sultan Al Suwaidi, Chairman of SEWA, and Abdullah Abdulrahman Al Shamsi, Director-General of SEWA, to develop power transmission and distribution networks across Sharjah.

These efforts aim to supply new residential, investment and industrial areas with highly reliable electricity services, reduce pressure on existing substations and ensure the efficient continuity of power supply.

Al Tunaiji said the new projects are being designed and implemented using the latest technologies and control systems to ensure rapid response and enhance safety and security standards.

He added that work teams are operating according to specific schedules to complete the projects currently under implementation and connect them to the main grid.

The projects reflect SEWA’s continued commitment to investing in energy infrastructure and supporting Sharjah’s sustainable development.

Two projects completed

Abdullah Al Kous, Deputy Director of the Power Transmission Department at SEWA, stated that the completed projects include the Airport Project, which involved laying 132 kV underground cables to connect seven main substations over a total distance of 71.7 kilometres at a cost of AED 235 million.

SEWA also completed a project to upgrade 220 kV overhead transmission lines at a cost of AED 106.493 million.

Al Kous said key projects currently under implementation include the 220 kV Al Shanouf substation, valued at AED 218.143 million; the 132 kV Al Ghubaiba substation, costing AED 230.840 million; and the 132 kV Al Nahda substation, valued at AED 203.698 million.

The projects also include the Al Shanouf project to reroute 13.4 kilometres of overhead transmission lines at a cost of AED 72.610 million.

Work is also continuing on nine other projects included in the approved plan, with activities at various stages of design, implementation and completion according to established schedules.

The projects are expected to enhance the readiness and efficiency of Sharjah’s power transmission network and enable it to meet the future energy requirements of different areas across the emirate.

Dubai , September 24 , 2026 : The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research has launched its new scholarship platform as part of EduHub, the unified Higher Education digital portal, which serves as a gateway to and central reference point for a range of Ministry services. These include registration and admission services for higher education institutions, scholarship services, enquiries about institutions and academic programmes outside the UAE, as well as submitting and tracking exemption requests.

Powered by artificial intelligence, the new scholarship platform represents a comprehensive transformation in the way services are delivered to customers through the Ministry’s website. It provides a simpler and faster process that supports the Ministry’s digital transformation efforts, its drive to eliminate bureaucracy, and its investment in AI solutions to enhance service efficiency and streamline the customer journey.

Rashed Karam Al Kaabi, Director of the International Education Support and Scholarships Department at the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, said, “The new scholarship platform is built on digital integration and direct connectivity with several government entities, including the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security, the National Service and Reserve Authority and the Ministry of Education. This integration has reduced the number of documents required from customers to just two, while eliminating the need for applicants to provide personal information or high school transcripts for students following the government curriculum, as this information is retrieved automatically through the system.”

Al Kaabi explained that the number of steps required to submit an application has been reduced from five to three, while the number of fields applicants need to complete has fallen from 22 to just four. As a result, the time required to submit an application has been reduced to a minimum of five minutes.

He noted that these changes represent a significant improvement in the customer experience, while also simplifying administrative procedures and reducing the time required from scholarship students. This gives students more time to focus on preparing for their educational journey with confidence, without having to deal with routine administrative procedures.

The platform uses AI tools to read and verify documents, while automating procedures that previously required direct intervention from customers. For example, scholarship agreements can now be signed entirely electronically through the system, while documents can be received after a scholarship has been awarded without the need for traditional communication or visits to Ministry offices.

The platform also provides instant notifications and continuous updates on application status, in addition to a direct messaging feature that enables applicants to communicate with the relevant department. This makes it easier to track applications, prevents duplicate submissions and facilitates staff follow-up, while reducing manual errors through electronic integration with government entities.

The new platform is also designed to address some of the key challenges previously faced by customers, including difficulties in tracking applications via email, the need to visit the Ministry in the event of a technical issue, and lengthy document-signing procedures. Today, all stages of the service are fully digital, enhancing processing speed and the reliability of procedures.

During the next phase, the Ministry will measure the effectiveness of the new platform and its impact on customers by monitoring service completion times, the number of steps, the percentage of digitally processed transactions and customer satisfaction. These measures will help evaluate the experience and support its continuous improvement, with the aim of achieving the best possible outcomes.

Dubai , September 24, 2026 : Lenovo today announced that Schneider Electric, a global energy technology leader, will join Lenovo 360 Circle as a strategic ally to bring decarbonization expertise and management tools directly to IT channel partners.

Lenovo 360 Circle is Lenovo’s global sustainability community, bringing together channel partners worldwide to collaborate on shared challenges, accelerate sustainability transformation, and turn sustainability ambitions into business opportunities. Through its Allyship program, Lenovo 360 Circle connects partners with leading technology and industry organizations to enable collaboration and provide access to specialized expertise that helps partners accelerate their sustainability goals.

As its newest strategic ally, Schneider Electric will bring its Decarbonization Champion initiative to the community, giving eligible members access to carbon management tools and hands-on support from Schneider Electric Advisory Services specialists to measure their emissions, identify opportunities for reduction, and develop a practical decarbonization roadmap for their business.

The business case for decarbonization

As sustainability requirements become increasingly relevant to customer decisions, RFPs, and supply chains, channel partners face growing expectations to demonstrate credible progress. Building the ability to measure and demonstrate that progress can help partners meet evolving customer requirements and differentiate their businesses.

For many organizations, however, knowing where to start can be a challenge. Decarbonization requires companies to first understand where their greenhouse gas emissions come from, identify opportunities to reduce them, and translate those insights into practical actions with measurable results.

“Sustainability is no longer only about commitments; it is increasingly influencing market access, customer preference, and business growth,” said Virginie le Barbu, Lenovo’s Executive Director of Global Sustainability for International Markets. “Through Lenovo 360 Circle and our collaboration with Schneider Electric, partners gain practical decarbonization expertise that helps them strengthen their competitiveness and respond to evolving customer expectations.”

How the Decarbonization Champion initiative works

Building on Lenovo 360 Circle’s existing Connect, Learn and Lead journey, Schneider Electric’s Decarbonization Champion initiative provides eligible partners with a four-stage pathway combining education, carbon management tools, and specialist support to help them understand their emissions and translate that insight into action:

• Build knowledge: Develop sustainability and decarbonization expertise through Schneider Electric Sustainability School and Lenovo 360 Sustainability Learning Paths.

• Measure impact: Access carbon management tools to establish a Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions baseline, providing the data needed to understand environmental impact. Partners completing the education and measurement stages will earn Schneider Electric Decarbonization Champion recognition.

• Build the roadmap: Receive hands-on support from Schneider Electric specialists, including a remote site audit, strategy workshop and jointly developed decarbonization roadmap to help identify and prioritize opportunities for action.

• Take action and demonstrate progress: Implement priority initiatives identified through the roadmap and track progress over time. Partners that choose to implement eligible Schneider Electric solutions can also access rebate opportunities to support their decarbonization actions.

The pathway is designed as an ongoing cycle of measurement and continuous improvement rather than a one-time sustainability assessment.

Two sustainability leaders, one partner ecosystem

The partnership brings together complementary strengths: the scale and engagement of Lenovo 360 Circle with Schneider Electric’s specialist expertise and proven experience in decarbonization.

Today, Lenovo 360 Circle brings together more than 861 partners across 68 markets and has demonstrated measurable progress across participating partners through independent ClimateChoice benchmarking. Schneider Electric brings deep experience helping organizations translate sustainability goals into action, including supporting its top 1,000 suppliers in reducing operational emissions by 56 percent between 2021 and 2025.

Both companies were also recognized as Champions in Omdia’s global Sustainable Ecosystems Leadership Matrix 2026, reflecting their respective approaches to advancing sustainability across their broader ecosystems.

Together, Lenovo and Schneider Electric can extend practical decarbonization capabilities across an established global partner community, helping partners move from sustainability knowledge to measurement, planning and action.

“Every partner’s sustainability journey is unique, but the need for action has never been greater,” said Leslie Vitrano Hubright, Vice President, Global IT Channel Ecosystem, Schneider Electric. “Through the Decarbonization Champion offer, we’re building the momentum needed to address the broader Scope 3 challenge and drive lasting progress across our industry. Now partners can accelerate progress on Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions with tailored guidance and practical roadmaps aligned to their individual needs. The Decarbonization Champions will be recognized as the leading partners in the IT industry who are setting the highest standard for sustainability by turning ambition into measurable impact.”  

How to participate

The Decarbonization Champion initiative will initially be available to eligible Lenovo 360 Circle partners in select markets, with the ability to expand regionally as local delivery capabilities are required.

Lenovo partners interested in participating can learn more at Lenovo 360 Partner Hub.

Dubai , September 24 , 2026 : The Jewellery & Watch Show (JWS), organised by RX, has announced the return of the prestigious Ebda’a Awards for 2026, with two new categories introduced as the celebrated jewellery design competition continues to expand its platform for creative talent.

Celebrating Over a Decade of Jewellery Design

Founded by renowned UAE jewellery artist Azza Al Qubaisi, the Ebda’a Awards have spent more than a decade celebrating creativity, innovation and craftsmanship in jewellery design, while providing a platform for aspiring and professional designers to showcase their talent and connect with the wider industry.

Two New Categories for 2026

For 2026, the Awards introduce Men’s Design and Bridal Design, expanding the competition to explore new perspectives and creative possibilities within jewellery design. The Men’s Design category invites designers to explore contemporary men’s style, identity, cultural influences and innovation, while the Bridal Design category focuses on multi-way jewellery, encouraging versatile designs that offer new possibilities for bridal wear.

The new categories build on the success of the Awards’ 12th edition in 2025, which saw the introduction of the Emirates Souvenir Design and International Design categories, further broadening the competition’s reach and celebrating diverse approaches to jewellery design.

Nine Categories Celebrating Creative Talent

The 2026 Ebda’a Awards categories are:

• Pearl Design
• Calligraphy
• Emirati Design
• Emirates Souvenir Design
• Professional Design
• International Design
• Men’s Design – New for 2026
• Bridal Design – New for 2026
• People of Determination

Across the categories, designers are encouraged to draw inspiration from UAE culture and heritage, the country’s natural environment, contemporary design, innovation and everyday wearability, creating pieces that demonstrate both creative vision and craftsmanship.

Azza Al Qubaisi, Founder of the Ebda’a Awards, said: “The future of design is shaped when we give young creatives the freedom to explore their identity and the courage to create differently.”

A Platform for Emerging and Established Designers

May Ismail, Event Director of JWS, said: “Every year, the Ebda’a Awards highlight the extraordinary imagination and craftsmanship within our creative community. At JWS, we are proud to provide a platform that empowers designers and gives them the opportunity to showcase their work to a wider audience. The introduction of the new Men’s Design and Bridal Design categories for 2026 reflects the continued evolution of the Awards and our commitment to supporting emerging talent as they explore new creative directions and build their presence within the jewellery industry.”

The 2026 Ebda’a Awards jury brings together established jewellery artists, designers, educators and previous winners, including Azza Al Qubaisi, Sheikha Alserkal, Noura Alserkal, Salam Swaid, Devanshi Parmar, Budoor Al Budoor and Naida Abbas.

This year’s awards are supported by IGI – International Gemmological Institute, Al Zahab Al Ahmar Academy, Institute for Inclusion + Accessibility / Access for All, MOCD – Ministry of Community Development, and The New Jeweller Magazine.

The Awards programme will also feature a series of workshops led by Al Zahab Al Ahmar Academy, FIA with Azza Al Qubaisi, Salam Swaid and IGI – International Gemmological Institute, providing participants with further opportunities to develop their knowledge and creative skills.

Through the awards, designers gain valuable visibility and opportunities to connect with industry professionals while showcasing their creativity alongside regional and international talent. The competition continues to provide a platform for emerging and established designers to develop their craft and contribute to the evolving jewellery landscape.

Dubai , September 23, 2026 : The ocean economy is valued at US$2.6 trillion, making it the world’s fifth-largest economy if considered a country, according to a report published by First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB).

The report, “The Ocean Economy: Becoming the World’s Fifth-Largest Economy”, said the sector has doubled in real terms over the past 25 years, with gross value added rising from $1.3 trillion in 1995 to $2.6 trillion in 2020.

It examines how stronger financial structures can expand sustainable ocean solutions, mobilise capital and support global economic growth and resilience.

The report noted that around $175 billion in annual financing is required to protect life below water under Sustainable Development Goal 14, highlighting the need for stronger project pipelines, clearer standards, improved data and financing structures capable of turning ocean priorities into investable projects.

It reflects the outcomes of a roundtable convened by FAB in cooperation with the World Economic Forum during London Climate Action Week.

Among its key priorities, the report calls for developing bankable investment opportunities and repeatable financing models, while strengthening coordination between policymakers, businesses and financial institutions to attract greater private-sector capital.

It also highlights significant opportunities for expanding blue finance in the Middle East by connecting the region’s strengths in global trade, energy transition, water security and coastal development with international capital, technical expertise and credible financing structures.

FAB’s focus on the sustainable ocean economy forms part of its broader sustainable and nature-related finance agenda.

The bank has issued the first blue bond by a GCC financial institution to support water and wastewater infrastructure and was the first financial institution in the MENA region to publish a disclosure aligned with the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD).

FAB also served as Principal and Official Banking Partner of the IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025, supporting dialogue on nature finance, biodiversity, water and the climate-nature nexus.