New bridge is part of Al Mustaqbal Street Development Project

​ 

Dubai. August​ 13​, 2026:​ Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is set to officially open
tomorrow, Friday, a 500-metre, two-lane bridge serving traffic from Dubai
World Trade Centre and One Central buildings towards the intersection
of Al Mustaqbal Street and Za’abeel Palace Street and contributes to cut
travel time from Dubai World Trade Centre down from 10 minutes to just
2 minutes during major events.
The newly completed bridge forms part of Al Mustaqbal Street
Development Project, which extends from its intersection with Za’abeel
Palace Street to Financial Centre Street. The project, being delivered at
a cost of AED 633 million, features 2,000 metres of bridges and tunnels,
and extends to expanding Al Mustaqbal Street from three to four lanes in
each direction.
The project will increase the street’s capacity by 33%, from 6,600 to
8,800 vehicles per hour in both directions and reduce journey time from
13 minutes to 6 minutes.
Integrated Project
His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director General, Chairman of the Board
of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority, said: “Al
Mustaqbal Street Development Project is being implemented in line with
the directives of the wise leadership to continue developing the
infrastructure of the road network and public transport systems to
accommodate the needs of urban development and population growth,
while enhancing quality of life.
“The project forms part of an integrated scheme that also involves
upgrading the World Trade Centre Roundabout, where works are
progressing rapidly, and completion has exceeded 85%. With several
bridges already opened, RTA is set to open another bridge by the end of
August to serve traffic coming from Sheikh Rashid Road towards 2nd
December Street. In October, RTA will open the project’s final bridge,
which will serve traffic coming from Al Majlis Street towards 2nd
December Street.”
Al Tayer added: “Al Mustaqbal Street Development Project is
strategically significant given its location at the heart of a vital district
including Dubai World Trade Centre and Dubai International Financial
Centre, and its role in linking Downtown Dubai with Business Bay.
“Beyond improving traffic efficiency, the project will enhance access to
key financial, business and events destinations, support investment,
trade and tourism flows, and strengthen the area’s readiness to keep
pace with economic growth and host major global events. This will
enhance Dubai’s competitiveness and appeal as a global business and
financial hub, while emphasising the role of roads and transport
infrastructure in supporting economy and development.”
Creative and Aesthetic Features
Al Tayer said: “Work on the Al Mustaqbal Street Development Project is
progressing at an advanced pace, ahead of the approved timeline, with
completion exceeding 50%. In February 2027, RTA will open three
tunnels extending 1,500 metres at the intersection of Al Mustaqbal Street
and Trade Centre Street.
“The project also incorporates a range of creative and aesthetic features
designed to enhance the area’s urban character, including upgraded
pedestrian walkways, a cycling track and decorative lighting that provide
safer and more accessible routes for all.
“The project will also create urban spaces that encourage community
interaction and provide vibrant, inclusive environments. It will connect
surrounding development areas with metro stations to ensure seamless
and integrated access for residents and visitors.”
Al Tayer also affirmed that the project serves several commercial,
residential and development areas, most notably Dubai World Trade
Centre, the region’s largest venue for major international events and
exhibitions for more than 40 years. It hosts global exhibitions and
conferences such as GITEX, Arabian Travel Market, WHX Dubai
(formerly Arab Health), Gulfood, Transport Exhibition and other major
events. It also serves Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), the
leading financial centre in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia, as well
as Za’abeel, Downtown Dubai and Business Bay. It is expected to
benefit around half a million residents and visitors.
Three Tunnels and a Bridge
Al Mustaqbal Street Development Project further involves constructing
three tunnels spanning 1,500 metres at the intersection of Al Mustaqbal
Street and Trade Centre Street. The first is a three-lane tunnel on Al
Mustaqbal Street towards Deira, with a capacity of 4,500 vehicles per
hour. The second is a two-lane tunnel enabling left-turn movement from
Al Mustaqbal Street towards Trade Centre Street. It serves traffic in both
directions towards Deira and Jebel Ali and has a capacity of 3,000
vehicles per hour in both directions. The third tunnel covers one lane,
serves One Central, and with a capacity of 1,500 vehicles per hour.
Other works include constructing a 500-metre, two-lane bridge serving
traffic from Dubai World Trade Centre onto the intersection of Za’abeel
Palace Street and Al Mustaqbal Street. Alongside expanding Al
Mustaqbal Street across a 3,500-metre stretch from its intersection with
Financial Centre Street to its intersection with Za’abeel Palace Street,
increasing the number of lanes from three to four in each direction.

It further delivers free-flow links to improve traffic movement at the
intersection of Al Mustaqbal Street with Exhibition Street and Trade
Centre Street, in addition to a newly constructed pedestrian bridge on Al
Sukook Street and upgrades to the existing intersections along the
street.
Concurrent Projects
Al Mustaqbal Street Development Project is being delivered in parallel
with two integrated projects in the area. Foremost is the World Trade
Centre Roundabout Development Project, one of Dubai’s key
intersections, linking Sheikh Zayed Road with five vital roads: Sheikh
Khalifa bin Zayed Street, Sheikh Rashid Street, 2nd December Street,
Za’abeel Palace Street and Al Mustaqbal Street.
Additionally, five bridges extending 5,000 metres will also be constructed
besides converting the existing roundabout into an at-grade intersection
to improve traffic flow in the area.
The second is Oud Maitha and Al Asayel Streets Development Project,
which is scheduled for full opening by the end of this month. It also
entails the development of four major intersections featuring bridges
spanning 4,300 metres and 14 kilometres of roads.
Serving service, residential and development areas with a projected
population of over 420,000 by 2030, It will cut journey time from 20
minutes to 10 minutes, a 50% improvement.

Dubai , August 12 , 2026 : ​ 

​ 

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has achieved a new global
milestone in infrastructure asset management, recording leading
performance in the Road Network Asset Condition Index (ACI). The
assessment showed that 95% of road network assets are classified as
excellent, reflecting the strength of RTA’s asset management ecosystem
and the effectiveness of its periodic assessment, preventive maintenance
and proactive maintenance programmes in maintaining asset readiness
and long-term sustainability in line with the highest international standards.
The milestone reflects RTA’s strategic commitment to enhancing quality of
life, improving infrastructure efficiency and sustainability, and deploying the
latest smart technologies in the management and maintenance of road
assets. It also supports Dubai’s vision to become the world’s best city in
terms of the quality and sustainability of transport and infrastructure
services.
RTA’s performance stood out across five key areas: comprehensive asset
coverage; the approved quantitative approach used for calculating the ACI;
the use of LiDAR, artificial intelligence and automated data extraction
technologies; annual assessment across the entire road network; and
integration with Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Together, these
attributes have further consolidated Dubai’s position as one of the world’s
leading cities in road and infrastructure asset management.
The Road Network Asset Condition Index is one of the advanced
quantitative tools used globally to measure the structural and operational
condition of road network assets. It works by assessing the condition of
individual road elements, measuring the level of deterioration and the
severity of damage for each asset, and converting the results into a unified
score from 0 to 100. This enables assets to be classified by quality level,
helps identify maintenance priorities, supports more effective asset lifecycle
management, optimises cost efficiency, and strengthens infrastructure
sustainability.

RTA developed the index in line with global best practices in road asset
management, drawing on a benchmarking exercise covering leading
international entities. These included the transportation departments of
California, Texas, Florida, Pennsylvania and New York State; Australia’s
Austroads; the Ministry of Transport of the People’s Republic of China;
Singapore’s Land Transport Authority (LTA); Japan’s Ministry of Land,
Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT); Cerema, the French Centre
for Studies and Expertise on Risks, the Environment, Mobility and Urban
Planning; the Swedish Transport Administration; and other international
organisations.
The benchmarking covered asset assessment methodologies,
comprehensiveness of coverage, index calculation mechanisms, levels of
automation, inspection technologies, inspection frequency, integration with
Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and customer engagement
mechanisms.
RTA uses LiDAR technology to conduct high-precision digital surveys of
various road network assets, covering more than 38 asset classes,
including traffic signs, safety barriers, lighting poles, traffic signals,
pavements, fencing and other road components. The technology provides
accurate and up-to-date data that supports decision-making, helps define
maintenance priorities, and improves asset lifecycle management.
LiDAR technology can achieve accuracy levels of up to 95% compared with
traditional visual assessment, while surveys are carried out with the vehicle
in motion and without the need for traffic closures. This helps improve data
quality, accelerate assessment processes, enhance the safety of road
users and field teams, and reduce time, effort and operational costs.
The system also enables the efficient monitoring and assessment of assets
located on highways and freeways, which are difficult to assess using
conventional methods. This contributes to improving traffic safety,
enhancing proactive maintenance planning, strengthening the resilience
and sustainability of the road network, and ensuring that assets remain
ready and well maintained in line with global best practices.

Sharjah , August 10 , 2026 :
​ 

The destination restaurant at Al Faya Retreat combines premium meats, open-fire cooking and a desert setting away from the city

SHARJAH: A new destination dining experience is taking shape in Sharjah’s desert, where Mavia Restaurant at Al Faya Retreat brings premium steaks, open-fire cooking and a relaxed setting together.

Located within the Sharjah Collection, the restaurant offers diners an alternative to conventional city steakhouses, with its desert surroundings forming an important part of the experience.

At the centre of Mavia’s menu is a selection of premium meats. Signature options include a 400-gram Black Angus Rib Eye, known for its rich marbling, and a 400-gram Wagyu Striploin. For those looking to share, the restaurant offers a 600-gram T-Bone, while Wagyu Skewers provide another take on open-fire grilling.

The menu, however, extends beyond steaks. Slow-cooked and grilled dishes include Lamb Shank Tajine, Adana Kebab and Shish Tawook, alongside a selection of seafood.

The restaurant’s approach focuses on allowing the main ingredients to take centre stage, with accompanying flavours designed to complement rather than overpower the meat.

Dining in the desert

Mavia’s location at Al Faya Retreat is a key part of the dining experience. The journey from the city gradually gives way to open desert landscapes, creating a setting that is markedly different from Sharjah’s urban dining venues.

The restaurant caters to both lunch and dinner, offering visitors the opportunity to combine a meal with the wider experience of Al Faya’s desert environment.

Beyond its main courses, Mavia’s menu includes appetisers, seasonal salads and a selection of desserts. Signature sweet dishes include Pavlova Berries, Burnt Cheesecake and Panna Cotta.

Handcrafted mocktails, speciality coffees and other beverages are also available.

A destination beyond the city

Restaurants located in distinctive natural settings are increasingly becoming part of the UAE’s wider dining and tourism landscape. Mavia follows this trend by placing the restaurant experience alongside Sharjah’s desert environment.

Its location within the Sharjah Collection also connects the dining experience with the emirate’s broader focus on nature, culture and destination tourism.

For visitors looking to explore Sharjah beyond its city centre, Mavia offers a combination of premium meats, fire-led cooking and desert surroundings — making the journey to Al Faya part of the overall dining experience.

New lane increases road capacity by 17%

Dubai. August 10, 2026: Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has completed a 2-kilometre widening on Sheikh Zayed Road by adding a new lane for traffic coming from Abu Dhabi, near Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station and heading towards World Trade Centre Intersection.

The widening increases the number of lanes from six to seven, raising road capacity by 17% and reducing journey time by up to 10% during peak hours.

The improvement forms part of a package of traffic solutions being implemented by RTA on Sheikh Zayed Road to enhance capacity, improve connectivity with the surrounding road network, and boost traffic flow on one of Dubai’s most important arterial and economic corridors.

Sheikh Zayed Road serves key destinations including Dubai World Trade Centre, Dubai International Financial Centre, Museum of the Future, Al Karama, Al Jafiliya and Al Mankhool. It also supports access to international exhibitions and events, facilitates movement between commercial and residential districts, and improves journey times for road users.

RTA also has recently opened a key second-level bridge under the World Trade Centre Roundabout Development . The 1,000-metre bridge comprises two lanes, has a capacity of 3,000 vehicles per hour, and serves traffic coming from Sheikh Zayed Road towards Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Street in the direction of Al Karama and Deira.

The bridge enhances traffic flow from Sheikh Zayed Road towards Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Street, reduces journey time from six minutes to one minute, and eases congestion at World Trade Centre Roundabout.

Bridge ramps to open in Q4 of 2026, enabling smooth traffic
flow in all directions

Dubai , August 9, 2026 : Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) opened a four-lane bridge
today, Sunday, on the southern, right-hand side of the intersection of Al
Qudra Road and Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan Al Nahyan Street, as part of
the project to upgrade the intersection. Extending 700 metres with a
capacity of 6,000 vehicles per hour, the bridge serves traffic flow along Al
Qudra Road towards Al Qudra City.
The opening completes the traffic configuration at the intersection,
following the opening of the opposite bridge last February, which serves
traffic from Al Qudra City towards Umm Suqeim. Together, these works
enhance traffic flow and improve connectivity between the area’s key
corridors.
In Q4 of 2026, RTA will open the side ramp bridges at the intersection of
Al Qudra Road and Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan Al Nahyan Street. These
ramps will provide smooth traffic flow in all directions without disrupting
the main carriageways. They include a 500-metre bridge serving traffic
from Al Qudra Road to Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan Al Nahyan Street
towards Jebel Ali, and a 900-metre bridge serving traffic from Al Qudra
Road to Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan Al Nahyan Street towards Downtown
Dubai and Dubai International Airport. The works also include the
construction of service roads on both sides of Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan
Al Nahyan Street, extending three kilometres, to link with surrounding
development projects.
The intersection upgrade of Al Qudra Road with Sheikh Zayed bin
Hamdan Al Nahyan Street will increase overall traffic capacity from 7,800
to 19,400 vehicles per hour and reduce waiting time at the intersection of
Al Qudra Road and Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan Al Nahyan Street by 85%,
from nearly seven minutes to one minute.
His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director General, Chairman of the Board
of Executive Directors, Roads and Transport Authority, said: “Al Qudra
Road Development Project is being implemented in line with the directives
of the wise leadership to continue advancing the infrastructure of the road
network, keeping pace with Dubai’s rapid urban and population growth,
improving mobility efficiency, supporting quality of life, and reinforcing
Dubai’s standing as a leading city in providing world-class infrastructure.
“The project forms part of RTA’s integrated plan to develop the emirate’s
key corridors and strengthen connectivity across the road network. This
will help accommodate growing traffic demand and keep pace with the
expansion of current and future residential and development areas.”
Al Tayer explained: “The project involves upgrading several intersections
and constructing bridges with a combined length of 4,000 metres,
alongside the expansion and development of an 11.6-kilometre stretch of
Al Qudra Road. The works will increase the road’s capacity and reduce
journey time by 70%, from 9.4 minutes to 2.8 minutes. The project serves
residential and development areas with more than 400,000 residents and
visitors.”

Strategic Corridor

Al Tayer added: “Al Qudra Road is one of the principal strategic corridors
in Dubai’s road network and a key east–west route, linking several vital
residential and development areas while strengthening integration
between the emirate’s major roads.
“The project, extending from the intersection of Al Qudra Road and Sheikh
Mohammed bin Zayed Road to Emirates Road, serves several major
developments, including Arabian Ranches 1 and 2, Dubai Motor City,
Dubai Studio City, Akoya, Mudon, DAMAC Hills and The Sustainable City.
“It will improve traffic efficiency at strategic intersections, facilitate
smoother travel in both directions between Emirates Road and Al Qudra
City, reduce congestion and enhance road safety. The project will also
support urban and economic development and stimulate investment
across the areas it serves.
“These benefits reflect RTA’s approach to delivering proactive
infrastructure projects aligned with the objectives of the Dubai 2040 Urban
Master Plan and providing sustainable traffic solutions that support the
emirate’s comprehensive development.”
Completed Bridge
Earlier this year, as part of Al Qudra Road Development Project, RTA
opened a 1,200-metre bridge comprising four lanes in each direction at
the intersection of Al Qudra Road and the link road connecting Arabian
Ranches with Dubai Studio City, as part of the main intersections
development project along Al Qudra Road, extending from its intersection
with Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, passing through Sheikh Zayed
bin Hamdan Al Nahyan Street and Emirates Road up to Al Qudra Road.
The bridge has improved traffic flow along Al Qudra Road and the road
linking Arabian Ranches with Dubai Studio City, increased capacity from
6,600 to 19,200 vehicles per hour, and reduced waiting time at the
intersection by 55%, from 113 seconds to 52 seconds.
RTA also opened improvements to the intersection of Emirates Road and
Al Qudra Road last May. The works included a new service road along
Emirates Road towards Jebel Ali and a free-flow loop ramp serving traffic
travelling from the city centre via Emirates Road towards Al Qudra City.

Further improvements on the opposite side of the intersection are
scheduled to open this month, including an additional free-flow ramp for
traffic travelling from Jebel Ali via Emirates Road towards Umm Suqeim
through Al Qudra Road.
Development Areas
Al Qudra Road Development Project serves several major development
communities, including Town Square, Mira and DAMAC Hills 2, with more
than 400,000 residents and visitors.
The project includes increasing the number of lanes in both directions
along a 3.4-kilometre stretch of Al Qudra Road through the development
zone. RTA is also constructing a new 4.8-kilometre road through the
southern part of the zone and linking it to Emirates Road to improve
access to and from the surrounding developments.
The works also include increasing the number of lanes on both sides of
Emirates Road over a combined length of 4.8 kilometres to enhance
connectivity with development projects across the area.

S​harjah , August 9, 2026 : The Bejoice Premier League (BPL) 2026–27, one of the UAE’s premier Corporate & Community Cricket Championships, has officially been launched, setting the stage for an exciting season of high-quality cricket, corporate engagement, and community participation. Hosted at the prestigious Bejoice Cricket Club in Al Batayeh, Sharjah, the tournament will feature 16 elite teams competing across the club’s world-class Queensland Stadium and QueensPark Stadium.

Organized by the Bejoice Group of Companies, the championship has been designed to provide a professional platform where corporate organizations, community teams, entrepreneurs, sponsors, and talented cricketers come together under one banner. The event is produced and directed by Mr. Akash Ingleshwar, whose vision is to elevate corporate and community cricket in the UAE through international production standards, professional event management, and global digital exposure.

The tournament will feature 16 franchises, including Radiant Renegades, Amit International, Terminal Tigers, The Boys, Nawab CC, Salman XI CC, Dune Warriors, Shiv XI, Invictus, Vittoria Elite, Classic CC, Magnetar, Namma Bengaluru, Kanhangad CC, Kannur Squad, and Sher-e-Panjab. These teams represent the growing strength of corporate and community cricket in the UAE and will compete throughout the season for championship honours.

According to the organizers, the Bejoice Premier League is much more than a cricket tournament. It aims to combine elite sporting competition with business networking opportunities through professional live broadcasting, digital media coverage, player interviews, match presentations, corporate branding, sponsor activations, and extensive international media exposure. The league is expected to showcase the rising standard of UAE cricket to audiences around the world.

The Bejoice Group, which operates across sectors including international shipping, logistics, steel trading, hospitality, sports infrastructure, and event management, said its continued investment in cricket reflects its commitment to community development and creating opportunities for athletes and businesses alike.

The organizers believe the 2026–27 edition will establish a new benchmark for cricket in the UAE through international-quality stadium infrastructure, advanced cricket technology, professional tournament management, digital broadcasting, community engagement initiatives, and strong corporate participation. They also reaffirmed their vision of positioning the UAE as a leading destination for Corporate & Community Cricket on the global sporting calendar.

The official launch ceremony featured the unveiling of participating teams and sponsors, a ceremonial trophy presentation, media interactions, and a stadium walkthrough. Team captains also took part in a symbolic first delivery and batting launch, while sponsors and players gathered for the official championship photographs, marking the beginning of what promises to be one of the UAE’s biggest corporate cricket events of the year

5,000 health kits sponsored by Keeta

Dubai, August 7, 2026: Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has launched the
‘Safe and Healthy Summer for Delivery Riders’ campaign in
collaboration with Keeta, as part of its ongoing efforts to enhance
traffic safety, protect delivery-sector workers during the summer
months, and promote a culture of prevention against heat-related
risks.
Ahmed Al Khzaimy, Director of Traffic at RTA’s Traffic and Roads
Agency, said: “The campaign forms part of RTA’s strategy to
provide delivery riders with a safer and more sustainable working
environment, recognising their vital role in supporting Dubai’s
economy and logistics services. It is also being implemented under
the ‘Summer Without Accidents’ initiative, in collaboration with the
Ministry of Interior.
“RTA delivers a year-round awareness programme for delivery
riders, combining field campaigns with guidance activities at
worksites and company premises. In 2025, RTA carried out more
than 120 field awareness activities, benefiting over 17,000 riders.
Awareness messages delivered through media and social media
channels also reached more than 50,000 riders. These efforts
contributed to reducing fatalities involving delivery motorcycles from
35 in 2024 to 33 in 2025, despite continued growth in the number of
companies and riders operating in the sector.
“RTA is committed to enhancing the safety and health of delivery
riders, particularly during the peak summer months, when outdoor
workers face added risks from heat and humidity. Through the
campaign, RTA raises awareness of preventive measures and
encourages riders to adopt healthy practices and safe riding
behaviours, helping protect them and other road users.
“Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are among the most serious health
risks faced by those working in hot weather. Even a 2% loss of body
fluids may affect concentration, reaction speed and the ability to
make sound decisions while riding, according to the World Health
Organisation.
“The campaign, which runs throughout August, offers an integrated
programme combining traffic awareness and health education. It
includes the distribution of 5,000 health kits containing medical and
protective supplies, along with a hand fan and cooling towel to help
prevent heat exhaustion and heatstroke. The campaign also
includes health screenings and awareness consultations in
cooperation with partners.
“Direct exposure to high temperatures can cause the body to lose
large amounts of fluids and salts, increasing the risk of heat
exhaustion and affecting concentration and reaction speed while
riding. Riders are therefore urged to drink water regularly, take
sufficient rest breaks, and use appropriate protective equipment.
“Our collaboration with the private sector on such initiatives
reinforces corporate social responsibility and strengthens
partnerships across the wider community. We value the support of
Keeta, along with the contributions of Gulf Pharmaceutical Industries
(Julphar) and Protectol Health in providing health and protective
supplies, helping advance the campaign’s community and
humanitarian objectives.
“RTA continues to deliver year-round awareness programmes for
motorcycle delivery riders, targeting more than 70,000 delivery
riders in Dubai. This reflects RTA’s belief in the importance of
investing in traffic and health awareness to reduce accidents,
improve quality of life, and reinforce Dubai’s standing as a leading
city in providing a safe and sustainable transport system, particularly
amid the rapid growth of the delivery sector in the emirate.”
Community Responsibility
Colin Xu, Head of Logistics Operations at Keeta UAE, said: "At
Keeta, we believe that supporting delivery riders is a fundamental
part of our responsibility to the communities we serve. We are proud
to be part of this initiative led by Dubai's Roads and Transport
Authority (RTA), which highlights the value of strong public-private
collaboration in advancing the health, safety, and wellbeing of
delivery riders, particularly during the summer months. Our
contribution reflects Keeta's ongoing efforts to support riders with
practical initiatives that help them work more safely and comfortably,
while contributing to a more resilient, sustainable, and responsible
delivery ecosystem in Dubai."

Dubai , August 5 , 2026 : The UAE’s US$3.4 billion (Dh12.47 billion) investment into India’s western Gujarat state has inspired the 300,000-strong Non-Resident Gujarati community members in the UAE to strengthen their network by creating Gujarati Samaj and Vyapar Junction – to community and business-focussed groups in the UAE – that plan to help strengthen economic relations.

Gujarat is a highly industrialised state in India, driven by manufacturing, high exports, and robust cargo handling. The Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) stands above In ₹24.6 trillion US$260 billion), with per capita income crossing ₹300,000, positioning the region as a primary economic powerhouse in the country.

Dubai’s DP World is investing US$3 billion in the state’s ports, free zones and logistics to create a new economic gateway for India that will help the Indian economy grow faster. Last month, Lulu Group announced a IN₹40 billion (US$400 million) investment to develop a large shopping mall, a five-star hotel and serviced apartments in the state to cater to a growing urban population seeking a better retail experience.

Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy and Tourism, said, the state boasts an integrated ecosystem encompassing ports, industry, food processing, renewable energy, logistics, and entrepreneurship.

“Gujarat serves as a crucial focal point for the next phase of the UAE-India Economic Corridor, offering promising opportunities to strengthen cooperation in resilient supply chains, advanced manufacturing, food security, financial services, and tourism,” he said.

The total number of Indian companies operating in the UAE reached 290,222 by the end of H1 2026, reflecting a 16.7 per cent growth compared to the same period in 2025, many of them are owned by members of the Gujarati community.

Yusuff Ali M.A., Chairman, Lulu Group, said, “We have announced a IN₹40 billion (Dh1.53 billion) investment project to come up with a modern shopping mall, 5-star hotel and furnished residential​ apartments in an area of nearly 21 acres of land that we recently acquired in Ahmedabad. The project is expected to provide more than 15,000 jobs to residents of the state. In addition to this, we are also initiating a Food Park and planning a Fish-processing plant.”

Gujarati Samaj UAE is a not-for-profit community organisation that brings together more than 300,000 Gujarati community members of the Indian community residing across the UAE. It is dedicated to serving the community through social, professional, and cultural initiatives. The organization was established in 2022 with an initial membership of 16 individuals. Since then, it has experienced remarkable growth and, as of 2026, has expanded to a vibrant community of more than 28,000 members.

The primary objectives of Gujarati Samaj UAE are to support community members during challenging times by providing guidance and assistance in dealing with various government-related matters; to help individuals secure suitable employment opportunities; to promote social unity by celebrating Indian and UAE national festivals and cultural events and to strengthen community networking and foster mutual support among members.

Priteesh Patel, Founder of Gujarati Samaj in the UAE and Chairman of Akshar Holdings, says, “Gujarati’s are a vibrant and resourceful community in the UAE. As the economic relationship between the UAE and the state of Gujarat strengthens, we are also gearing up to realign our resources to enhance the socio-economic relationship by promoting trade, investment and employment.

“The Gujarati community has been part of the UAE society and economy for a long time. We have invested significant resources in the UAE and we plan to do more. Similarly, we also plan to invest in Gujarat – along with UAE investors​ in industrial development, logistics, start-ups and fintechs.

Our community can play a large role in helping both the economies. We would also like to collaborate with the Government of Gujarat in organising investment conferences and exhibitions.”

Approximately 60 per cent of Gujaratis in the UAE are business owners, representing a diverse range of industries and contributing significantly to the UAE’s economic growth. In addition to entrepreneurs, a large number of Gujarati professionals hold key positions in leading multinational corporations, government entities, and private organizations across the UAE.

Gujarati Samaj UAE aims to expand its membership to over 100,000 members in the coming years, creating one of the strongest and most connected Indian community organizations in the region. It is actively working to strengthen trade and business relations between India and the UAE. Its strategic initiatives include: Promoting bilateral trade across multiple sectors; Facilitating business opportunities between Indian and UAE companies; Creating greater employment opportunities for Gujaratis seeking careers in the UAE.

Its business networking platform Vyapar Junction UAE is helping business connectivity. Vyapar Junction UAE, is a place where entrepreneurs, business owners, and professionals meet to exchange ideas, build relationships, and explore new business opportunities.Gujarati Samaj UAE is launching its official mobile application, which is expected to become a comprehensive digital platform for the community. The app will provide: community updates and​ announcements; business and professional networking; access to government-related information and resources; employment opportunities.

The application is designed to become the central hub for information, networking, and community engagement for Gujarati’s throughout the Emirates.

Abu Dhabi, August 4, 2026: Abu Dhabi Airports is marking a significant milestone in
its network expansion following the recent launch of three direct services by Air India
Express, connecting Zayed International Airport (AUH) with key destinations across along
one of the world’s busiest travel corridors.
Air India Express’ expanded schedule includes newly launched non-stop operations to Navi
Mumbai, Indore and Lucknow. The airline will further strengthen its footprint next month with
the upcoming introduction of direct flights to Guwahati, scheduled to commence on 7
August, offering a direct link to India’s northeastern region. The expansion comes as
passenger demand continues to grow across both business and leisure travel segments.
The additions enhance passenger travel options between the UAE capital and primary urban
hubs across India, reinforcing AUH’s role as a strategic global aviation and tourism gateway
Ahmed Juma Al Shamisi, CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports, said: “The addition of these new
routes by Air India Express underlines our commitment to expanding Zayed International
Airport’s destination network and serving the growing demand between the UAE and India.
By deepening our partnership with leading regional carriers, we continue to enhance choice
for our passengers while supporting Abu Dhabi’s strategic tourism and economic objectives.”
Nipun Aggarwal, Chairman of Air India Express, said: “The UAE is one of Air India
Express’ most important international markets, and Abu Dhabi continues to play a key role in
our growth journey. As we expand our network and induct more aircraft, we are
strengthening connectivity, opening new opportunities for travellers, and offering our guests
greater choice, convenient schedules, modern aircraft and the warmth of Indian hospitality.
Every step in our growth is focused on creating greater value for our guests while
strengthening Air India Express’ position as India’s leading value airline.”