Dubai RTA Signs Cooperation Agreements with FiveGovernment Entities to Exchange Knowledge,Expertise and Best Practices

Dubai RTA Signs Cooperation Agreements with FiveGovernment Entities to Exchange Knowledge,Expertise and Best Practices

News 4 months ago

Dubai , january 27 , 2026 : Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has signed cooperation agreements with five government entities to exchange knowledge, expertise and best practices, following its selection as an ‘Elite Entity’ under the Leadership Partners initiative in government excellence.

The initiative is led by the Dubai Government Excellence Programme under the General Secretariat of the Executive Council of Dubai.

The agreements were signed with the Legal Affairs Department of the Government of Dubai, Dubai Government Human Resources Department, Community Development Authority, Endowment and Minors’ Trust Foundation (Awqaf Dubai), and Dubai Sports Council. They aim to enhance institutional cooperation and strengthen capabilities in areas including corporate excellence, leadership, project management, policy and initiative management, and operations management.

Signed at RTA’s headquarters, the agreements establish a corporate partnership framework under which RTA will act as a supporting entity for the participating organisations. This includes identifying partnership opportunities, sharing RTA’s success stories, transferring expertise, and organising awareness and training workshops to address development needs through clear and structured improvement plans.

The agreements were signed by Muna Al Osaimi, CEO of Strategy and Corporate Governance Sector at RTA, along with senior representatives from the participating entities: Shaikha Nasser Alqattan from the Legal Affairs Department of the Government of Dubai; Amna Hamood Obaid Al Suwaidi from the Dubai Government Human Resources Department; Maitha Mohammed Al Shamsi from the Community Development Authority; Ahmed Mohammed Al Yasi from Awqaf Dubai; and Ahmad Abdelkarim AlFahim from Dubai Sports Council.

Commenting on the occasion, Al Osaimi said:
“The Leadership Partners initiative embodies the vision of our wise leadership to foster a culture of collective action across the Government of Dubai. RTA’s selection as an elite entity reflects our commitment to supporting government organisations through knowledge exchange, the sharing of best practices, and the transfer of expertise, enabling the delivery of proactive and integrated services to the public.”

She added that RTA places strong emphasis on disseminating excellence, innovation and quality across its operations, accelerating development programmes, and enhancing performance efficiency in line with community expectations and the objectives of the Dubai Government Excellence Programme.

Al Osaimi further explained that the partnership is based on a short-term, clearly defined cooperation model under which RTA will support participating entities through knowledge transfer, data and research sharing, and other activities related to corporate excellence and leadership. Particular focus will be placed on project, initiative and policy management, as well as operations management.

She noted that the agreements also include identifying success stories and best practices to address improvement areas highlighted through evaluation reports and self-assessments, supported by targeted awareness and training workshops aligned with effective institutional development plans.

Al Osaimi expressed her pride in RTA’s selection as an elite entity, highlighting that it reflects the authority’s continued efforts to advance corporate excellence and strengthen its reputation at both regional and international levels.

Leadership Partners Initiative

Launched in June 2022 by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai, the Leadership Partners initiative aims to reinforce Dubai’s position as a global benchmark in government services. The initiative promotes cooperation among elite government entities, the exchange of expertise, and the dissemination of best practices, supported by performance indicators and continuous monitoring under the Dubai Government Excellence Programme.

Campaign to Boost Passenger Safety and Comfort Culture on Dubai Metro and Tram (2)

Dubai RTA Launches Campaign to Boost Passenger Safetyand Comfort Culture on Dubai Metro and Tram

News 4 months ago

Dubai , January 26 , 2026 : As part of its ongoing commitment to delivering a seamless, safe, and
comfortable public transport experience, Dubai’s Roads and Transport
Authority (RTA), in collaboration with Keolis-MHI (Dubai Metro and Tram
Operator), has launched an new Safety and Public Transport Etiquette
Campaign across Metro and Tram networks, in line with the highest global
standards of safety and service quality.
Hassan Al Mutawa, Director of Rail Operations at RTA’s Rail Agency, said:
“The campaign aims to reinforce a culture of courteous and responsible
passenger behaviour through focused awareness of key practices. These
include proper cabin selection, giving priority seating to people of
determination and senior citizens, keeping doorways clear to maintain
smooth movement, and respecting the rights and privacy of fellow
commuters. With Dubai Metro and Tram recognised among the world’s most
efficient and advanced transport systems, the campaign seeks to ensure
that every journey reflects the highest standards of safety and comfort.”
Al Mutawa explained that the campaign places a renewed focus on
enhancing passenger experience through smooth and comfortable journeys,
reducing risks, ensuring a safe environment inside trains and stations, and
improving passenger flow while preventing obstruction, contributing
positively to operational efficiency and overall service quality.
He further noted: “The campaign is implemented through an integrated
communication ecosystem, including guidance materials inside Metro and
Tram carriages, digital screens, awareness signage at stations, and social
media platforms, ensuring that awareness messages reach all segments of
the community across different age groups.”

Highlighting the role of frontline teams, Al Mutawa said: “Our station staff,
including Customer Happiness employees, ticket inspectors, and operational
teams, play a vital role in supporting awareness efforts on ground. Through
daily interaction with passengers, clear guidance, and real-time assistance,
they help reinforce safety and etiquette messages, contributing to a
smoother and more comfortable travel experience for all users.”
“This campaign forms part of RTA’s ongoing efforts to develop the public
transport network in Dubai and deliver innovative and smart solutions that
serve residents and visitors to the emirate, while aligning with other
initiatives aimed at improving traffic movement and enhancing efficiency of
the mobility system.”
He concluded: “Public transport is a shared space, and maintaining its safety
is a collective responsibility. This campaign goes beyond reminders; it
reinforces the culture of respect and awareness that distinguishes Dubai.
We are proud of our teams who work around the clock to ensure that every
journey is safe, smooth, and aligned with the emirate’s vision for smart and
sustainable mobility.”
The new Safety and Public Transport Etiquette Campaign aligns with RTA’s
comprehensive strategy, which places safety, inclusivity, and operational
efficiency at the forefront of its priorities, supporting Dubai’s ambition to
strengthen its position as a global leader in smart mobility and urban
transport.”

Aster DM Healthcare receives NCLT order to convene shareholders’ andcreditors’ meetings for approval of the merger with Quality Care India Ltd

News 4 months ago

Bengaluru, January 26, 2026: The merger between Aster DM Healthcare Limited, and Quality Care
India Ltd, one of the largest merger announcements in the healthcare industry has now received an
order from the Hon’ble National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT), Hyderabad Bench to convene the
shareholders and unsecured trade creditors meeting for approval of the merger. The meeting will be
fixed for a date between February 27, 2026 and March 13, 2026. The merger transaction is already in
receipt of approvals from Competition Commission of India (CCI) and ‘No Objection’ letters from the
Stock Exchanges. The company expects to complete the merger process by Q1 FY27, subject to
receipt of all regulatory approvals and completion of other conditions precedents.
The merged entity ‘Aster DM Quality Care’ will be promoted by Aster Promoters and Blackstone and
brings together the strengths of two leading healthcare providers with a common vision of
expanding access to high-quality medical care across the country.
Dr. Azad Moopen, Founder & Chairman, Aster DM Healthcare, said, “We are pleased with the
significant progress achieved in the merger process and are confident of shareholders/ unsecured
creditors approval as well as pursuant to the NCLT order. We remain committed to working toward a
speedy completion of the merger and look forward to making it effective by Q1 FY2026-27. Looking
ahead, our focus will be on executing a disciplined integration strategy that leverages the
complementary networks, clinical expertise, and operational strengths of Aster and Quality Care.
The merger provides a strong platform to scale efficiently, enhance clinical excellence, and
accelerate innovation, enabling us to build a more resilient and future-ready healthcare organization
that delivers improved access and outcomes for patients across the country.”
The merged entity ‘Aster DM Quality Care Limited’ will have a combined portfolio of four leading
brands: Aster DM, CARE Hospitals, KIMSHEALTH and Evercare. As of September 30, 2025, the
combined bed strength of Aster and QCIL stands over 10,360 beds with bed strength of Aster at
5,195+ beds and QCIL at 5,165+ respectively. Looking ahead, the merged entity aspires to increase
bed capacity to around 14,715+ beds over the coming years. With the combined scale, the merged
entity will also be well-positioned to explore investments in advanced medical technologies and
digital health platforms – driving innovation and creating a more integrated, seamless patient
experience.

GCC

Dubai RTA Completes 65% of Bridge Development Project Leading to Dubai Harbour Access Points in Collaboration with Shamal Holding

News 4 months ago

Dubai , January 26, 2026 : Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has completed 65%
of the construction works on a 1,500-metre bridge project featuring
two lanes in each direction, providing direct access to and from
Sheikh Zayed Road to Dubai Harbour. Dubai Harbour is a landmark
waterfront destination that hosts the largest yacht marinas in the
Middle East.
The project contractor has completed 90% of works related to
upgrading and adjusting utility services intersecting with the project,
alongside the implementation of approved traffic diversions. These
measures ensure smooth traffic flow and the continued progress of
construction and road works in line with the approved schedule. The
project is expected to be completed in the third quarter of the current
year.
His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director General, Chairman of the
Board of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority,
said, “This project reflects the directives of our leadership to develop

an integrated infrastructure that supports the rapid urban and
economic growth witnessed by Dubai. It represents a practical
model of effective integration and close collaboration between RTA
and strategic private-sector partners, ensuring that road and
transport projects are aligned with urban development plans in new
areas and along the emirate’s waterfront. Such coordination
enhances the mobility experience, supports quality of life, and
advances Dubai’s vision of strengthening its position as a leading
global city to live, work, and invest.”
Reducing Journey Time
He added: “The project includes the construction of a bridge
extending from Interchange 5 on Sheikh Zayed Road, near the
American University in Dubai, passing through the intersection of Al
Naseem Street and Al Falak Street, and crossing over King Salman
bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street, before connecting to Dubai Harbour
Street.”
“The bridge spans 1,500 metres and comprises two lanes in each
direction, with a total capacity of approximately 6,000 vehicles per
hour. The project also includes at-grade improvement works at four
key intersections along the corridor: Interchange 5 on Sheikh Zayed
Road, Al Falak Street with Al Naseem Street intersection, King
Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street with Al Naseem Street
intersection, and Dubai Harbour Street. Once completed, the project
will enhance traffic flow and reduce travel time from 12 minutes to
just 3 minutes.”
Integrated Maritime DestinationAbdulla Binhabtoor, Chief
Executive Officer of Shamal Holding, said: “Dubai Harbour Bridge
represents a significant advancement in infrastructure connecting
the city to its waterfront, further strengthening Dubai Harbour’s
position as a fully integrated and highly connected maritime
destination.”
“This project reflects Shamal’s commitment to delivering iconic
destinations that elevate Dubai’s urban and architectural landscape.
It is driven by a long-term investment vision and carefully calibrated
planning, underpinned by strategic decisions informed by our deep
understanding of how destinations evolve. This enables us to
identify the optimal timing for investment in their growth, supporting
the creation of more seamless and adaptable environments capable
of offering enjoyable and sustainable experiences.”

3

“The bridge also facilitates daily commute to and from Dubai
Harbour through its direct connection to Sheikh Zayed Road,
enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors alike. We are
proud to deliver this project in collaboration with the Roads and
Transport Authority, embodying the wise leadership’s vision of
establishing a world-class connectivity ecosystem that forms a
cornerstone of Dubai’s long-term growth,” Binhabtoor concluded.
Dubai Harbour
Dubai Harbour enjoys a prime location between Bluewaters Island
and Palm Jumeirah, in close proximity to some of Dubai’s most
iconic landmarks, including Burj Al Arab. The destination features a
wide range of residential, retail, and leisure offerings.
A development project is currently underway across a stretch of 1.5
km, featuring a residential complex of 24 towers and approximately
7,500 residential apartments.

All

Sharjah’s industrial real estate market reaches AED9.24 billion in 2025

News 4 months ago

Sharjah ، January 24 , 2026 : harjah Real Estate Registration Department revealed that Sharjah industrial real estate market has achieved unprecedented growth, with transaction values rising from approximately AED4.9 billion in 2024 to over AED9.24 billion in 2025, representing an 88.7 percent increase, reflecting growing investor confidence and the attractiveness of the emirate’s industrial investment environment.

This announcement was made during a panel discussion titled “The Future of Industrial Real Estate,” organised by the department as part of the Sharjah Real Estate Exhibition (ACRES 2026). The discussion was attended by a select group of officials and experts and moderated by Dr. Abdul Salam Al Hammadi.

Obaid Al Mazloum, Director of the Real Estate Projects Regulation Department at Sharjah Real Estate Registration Department, confirmed that this remarkable growth is not limited to the increase in the number of industrial properties, but also reflects a qualitative shift in the volume of investments and the quality of projects.

He explained that the number of traded industrial properties rose to 4,416 in 2025, and that Sharjah is home to approximately 14 industrial real estate development projects, ranging from industrial land to integrated complexes and multi-use warehouses.

Al Mazloum pointed out that flexible legislation and balanced regulation have directly contributed to supporting this growth by providing a stable investment environment that incentivises local and international investors, while simultaneously ensuring the optimal use of industrial land, which positively impacts the volume of transactions and the market value of industrial real estate.

He further explained that sustainability and innovation have become fundamental pillars in the development of industrial zones in Sharjah, through the adoption of smart solutions in energy and infrastructure management and the use of modern technologies. This contributes to reducing operating costs and increasing the long-term value of assets. Real estate, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals and the emirate’s future vision.

The panel discussion featured Eng Abdul Rahman Al Suwaidi, Director of the Planning Studies Department at Sharjah Department of Town Planning and Survey (SDTPS), who addressed the expansion of industrial infrastructure, industrial land allocation criteria, and mechanisms for integrating urban planning with industrial and logistical growth. He emphasised that Sharjah hosts approximately 40 percent of the UAE’s total industrial establishments, supported by a comprehensive infrastructure and a strategic logistical location.

Jamal Bouzanjal, Director of Corporate Communications at the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, also participated, highlighting the Chamber’s role in supporting and empowering the industrial sector and its various initiatives to attract investments. He noted that the Emirate is home to more than 2,800 factories (industrial units) distributed across 21 industrial zones, exporting their products to more than 120 countries worldwide.

The panel concluded by emphasising that real estate and industrial spaces are key drivers of growth. The main goal is to achieve Sharjah Vision 2030 by supporting economic diversification, strengthening supply chains, attracting quality investments, and consolidating the emirate’s position as a leading regional hub for industry and logistics.

PASION Luxury House Yachts Launches in Dubai, Redefining Waterfront Living

News 4 months ago

Dubai , January 2026 : A new era of luxury marine living was officially unveiled in Dubai as PASION Luxury House Yachts, a global luxury marine-living brand, announced its launch during an extraordinary high-profile event at Palazzo Versace Hotel Dubai.

The exclusive evening brought together a distinguished audience of senior government officials, global investors, business leaders, and prominent figures from international luxury and economic circles. Guests from around the world gathered to witness what many described as a defining moment in the evolution of waterfront living.

Organized by M.M.M International under the leadership of Maestro Wassim Mandil, the launch was executed with exceptional professionalism and artistic elegance. Widely regarded as one of the most prestigious luxury events hosted in Dubai, the evening set a new benchmark for high-end brand launches in the region.

Dubai’s First Fully Integrated Floating Lifestyle Concept

PASION Luxury House Yachts represents a significant milestone in the global luxury lifestyle sector. The brand introduces Dubai’s first fully integrated modern residential and commercial floating lifestyle concept, redefining how people live and work on water.

The portfolio includes fully furnished luxury residential yachts with spacious two-bedroom layouts, innovative one-bedroom yacht residences featuring contemporary design, executive floating office yachts, and refined hospitality solutions designed to meet the city’s uncompromising standards of excellence.

By seamlessly blending luxury, innovation, mobility, and privacy, PASION establishes a visionary approach to marine living that dissolves the traditional boundaries between land and sea.

Strategic Leadership and Global Support

The success of the launch was strongly supported by the pivotal role of Christopher Hinn, Global Businessman, President, Chief Officer, and Senior Partner of PASION. With more than five decades of international leadership experience in strategic governance, government relations, and global affairs, Hinn played a key role in attracting leading investors, prominent business figures, and elite members of Emirati and international society.

His contribution further reinforced PASION’s position as a new global destination for luxury living on water and strengthened the brand’s regional and international expansion strategy.

Visionary Leadership Behind the Brand

Founded by Huia Lazanis, Founder and Senior Partner of PASION Luxury House Yachts, the brand was born from a lifelong connection to the sea and a clear market insight. While yacht leisure has long existed in the UAE, true on-water residential and working solutions had yet to be realized.

PASION has evolved from a visionary concept into a fully operational marine-housing platform offering:

Furnished residential yachts
Corporate office vessels
Executive hospitality solutions

Lazanis’ design philosophy emphasizes emotional connection, natural harmony, and purposeful innovation, creating an elevated lifestyle without borders.

An Unforgettable Launch in the Heart of Dubai

The launch evening at Palazzo Versace Dubai reflected PASION’s ethos of understated power, elegance, and excellence. Guests experienced the brand’s vision through curated presentations, immersive discussions, and refined hospitality—celebrating not only the unveiling of a luxury brand, but the introduction of an entirely new category of living on water.

With international expansion already underway, PASION Luxury House Yachts is poised to shape the future of floating residences, executive marine environments, and luxury hospitality—firmly positioning Dubai at the forefront of a global lifestyle movement.

GCC

RTA Completes Major Infrastructure and Mobility Projects at Al Quoz Creative Zone

News 4 months ago

Dubai , January 23, 2026 : Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), a member of the Higher Committee of Al Quoz Creative Zone, has announced the completion of a comprehensive package of infrastructure and mobility projects aimed at enhancing connectivity and strengthening transport integration across the area.

The projects form part of a broader master plan to transform Al Quoz Creative Zone into a fully integrated global creative hub, catering to artists, designers, entrepreneurs, and investors from around the world. The zone is designed to support every stage of the creative value chain—from design and production to exhibition and marketing—while offering affordable live-work solutions within a collaborative framework that ensures commercial viability for developers and landowners.

Al Quoz Creative Zone features high-quality public spaces and dedicated venues for events, encouraging walking, active mobility, and social interaction. These elements contribute to a distinctive urban identity, positioning the area as a year-round destination for cultural, educational, and recreational experiences.

Key Infrastructure and Mobility Enhancements

Among the completed projects is a pedestrian and cycling bridge on Al Manara Street, designed to improve safety and ensure smooth pedestrian and cyclist movement within the zone and surrounding areas. The bridge incorporates architectural elements aligned with the creative zone’s visual identity and built environment. Measuring 45 metres in length and 5.5 metres in width, and standing 6 metres high, the bridge includes two access ramps, each extending 210 metres.

RTA has also delivered three mobility hubs, along with pedestrian, cycling, and individual mobility routes spanning a total of 4 kilometres. These developments enhance connectivity between Al Quoz Creative Zone, Onpassive Metro Station, and Al Quoz Bus Station, enabling seamless multimodal transport and reducing reliance on private vehicles.

In addition, preparations have been completed for the implementation of the Super Blocks project within the zone, as part of Dubai’s wider master plan to expand pedestrian pathways across the emirate.

Super Blocks and Cultural Activation

The Super Blocks project introduces flexible urban spaces that can host artistic events and cultural festivals, allowing selected streets to be temporarily closed and transformed into pedestrian-only environments. These urban oases will support initiatives such as the Al Quoz Arts Festival, scheduled for 24 and 25 January, organised by Alserkal Avenue in strategic partnership with Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture).

The project aligns with the objectives of the Year of the Family, Dubai Social Agenda 33, and Dubai Urban Plan 2040 by promoting social cohesion and enhancing quality of life through people-centric, pedestrian-focused environments. It also supports the 20-Minute City concept by encouraging sustainable mobility and enabling residents and visitors to access work, services, and leisure within a compact, well-connected urban setting.

Leadership Perspectives

His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA, and Vice Chairman of the Higher Committee of Al Quoz Creative Zone, said the completed projects reflect RTA’s commitment to integrated, people-focused transport solutions.

“Connecting Al Quoz Creative Zone to Al Safa Metro Station and Al Quoz Bus Station through an integrated network of pedestrian, cycling, and individual mobility routes enhances urban mobility efficiency and quality of life for residents, visitors, and entrepreneurs,” he said.

He added that the pedestrian and cycling bridge on Al Manara Street enhances safety and traffic flow while reinforcing the priority given to sustainable mobility, and that mobility hubs and internal pathways help create a connected, accessible environment that encourages walking and social interaction.

Her Excellency Hala Badri, Director General of Dubai Culture, said Al Quoz Creative Zone reflects Dubai’s ambition to position culture as a key economic driver and reinforce the emirate’s standing as a global hub for creativity and talent.

“The completion of soft mobility and transport integration projects will further enhance the zone’s appeal,” she said. “Dubai Culture remains committed to activating the area through high-impact initiatives that support innovators, attract investment, and strengthen the cultural and creative industries ecosystem.”

Expanding Creative Capacity

According to the land-use master plan, Al Quoz Creative Zone is set for significant expansion. Upon full implementation, the number of creatives in the area is expected to increase from 900 to 20,000. The zone will accommodate up to 8,000 residents and attract approximately 33,000 visitors per day.

The plan includes a tenfold increase in studio and workshop spaces, a threefold expansion of leisure and support facilities, and a 30% rise in leasable areas. By global standards, Al Quoz Creative Zone is set to rank among the largest creative districts worldwide in terms of built-up area and number of practitioners.

A Distinctive Planning Code

A pioneering planning code has been introduced to support integrated live-work environments, including the provision of 2,900 affordable housing units for creatives. The code prioritises public realm design, delivering flexible spaces for artistic activities, exhibitions, and cultural events.

It also includes the transformation of traditional sikeek (alleys) into shaded outdoor spaces, the development of exploration and knowledge routes, and the creation of public plazas and shared open areas for social interaction and artistic display. An innovative visual identity strategy featuring sculptures, murals, and dedicated art routes further enhances the visitor experience, while preserving Al Quoz’s industrial character through the adaptive reuse of existing warehouses.

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GCC

RTA Launches Permit to Install Parking Shades in Residential Neighbourhoods

News 4 months ago

Dubai , January 23 , 2026 : Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) launched a Permit to Install Parking Shades in Residential Neighbourhoods, applicable to designated and properly reserved parking spaces. The service is available through RTA’s website and is processed via contracting companies, with applications submitted through a unified digital portal that enables applicants to obtain approvals from all relevant service entities.

The introduction of the service responds to residents’ needs and reflects RTA’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life while preserving the urban and aesthetic character of Dubai. RTA highlighted the importance of the service based on feedback received through customer councils and field visits, as well as in response to high summer temperatures and the growing number of vehicles within residential communities.

Arif Shakri, Director of Right-of-Way at RTA’s Traffic and Roads Agency, stated: “The approved requirements for installing parking shades in residential neighbourhoods stipulate that the shades must not affect the continuity of soft mobility or pedestrian movement, nor compromise road safety or the smooth flow of traffic. The requirements further specify that the shades must not obstruct traffic signs, impact infrastructure utility lines located beneath pavements and parking areas, and must comply with the design and colour standards approved by RTA. In addition, the installation must be temporary, allowing for removal at the request of any service entity sharing infrastructure services in cases of development projects, maintenance works, or emergencies.”

Shakri urged owners of new residential units, as well as prospective owners undertaking construction works, to fulfil their role as partners in making Dubai one of the world’s most beautiful, refined, and advanced cities by ensuring due consideration of the right-of-way. He emphasised the importance of verifying, during the shade installation phase, that all installations fully comply with the standards applied across the Emirate of Dubai.

He concluded: “The objective of the service is to streamline the installation of parking shades in accordance with approved technical specifications and requirements, in a manner that preserves the emirate’s urban and aesthetic character, ensures the safety and smooth movement of pedestrians and vehicles, and prevents any impact on traffic signs or road furniture.

GCC

VFS Global Opens State-of-the-Art Visa Application Centre in Kuwait

News 4 months ago

Kuwait , January 23, 2026 : VFS Global, the world’s leading provider of trusted technology services that support secure mobility for governments and citizens, has inaugurated a new state-of-the-art Visa Application Centre in Kuwait in association with the Embassies of the Czech Republic and the Federal Republic of Germany.

The upgraded facility has been designed to deliver an enhanced visa application experience for residents of Kuwait. It features an increased number of biometric enrolment counters to enable faster processing, along with a modernised layout that ensures a comfortable, secure, and privacy-enabled environment for applicants.

The renewed Visa Application Centre was officially inaugurated by H.E. Mr. Juraj Chmiel, Ambassador of the Czech Republic to Kuwait, and H.E. Mr. Hans-Christian Freiherr von Reibnitz, Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to Kuwait, in the presence of senior VFS Global officials including Ms. Monaz Billimoria, Regional Head – Kuwait, and Mr. Avdhut Shelar, Head of Operations – Kuwait.

Speaking at the inauguration, H.E. Mr. Juraj Chmiel highlighted the importance of efficient and transparent visa services. “This new visa application centre reflects our commitment to providing efficient, transparent, and user-friendly services. We believe that the renewed services will facilitate easier mobility, supporting cultural exchange, business growth, and stronger people-to-people connections. Through this centre, we look forward to welcoming more travellers to explore the natural, historical, and cultural richness of the Czech Republic,” he said.

H.E. Mr. Hans-Christian Freiherr von Reibnitz noted VFS Global’s long-standing partnership with Germany, stating, “VFS Global has been trusted with receiving visa applications for the Federal Republic of Germany for more than 20 years. Their services have continuously expanded and improved. As all residents of Kuwait wishing to travel to Germany pass through these premises, I am pleased to see them upgraded into a truly welcoming, efficient, and comfortable space—the perfect place to begin a visit to Germany.”

Ms. Monaz Billimoria, Regional Head at VFS Global, said the new centre would help address the growing demand for travel to Europe. “VFS Global shares a long-standing relationship with the Governments of the Czech Republic and the Federal Republic of Germany. This state-of-the-art facility will play a vital role in enhancing customer experience and enabling us to serve travellers in Kuwait more effectively,” she said.

Applicants visiting the centre can also opt for a range of optional services, including SMS alerts and courier services, to further streamline their application experience. VFS Global clarified that these optional services do not influence visa processing timelines or decisions.

VFS Global has partnered with the Government of the Czech Republic since 2014 and with the Federal Republic of Germany since 2005. Currently, the company operates 73 visa application centres for the Czech Republic across 30 countries and supports Germany through a network of 74 centres in 31 countries worldwide.

Visa applicants are required to book appointments in advance through VFS Global’s official website, www.vfsglobal.com, at no additional charge. The company reiterated that its role is limited to front-end administrative services, such as collecting applications and documentation, while all visa decisions remain the sole responsibility of the respective Embassies and Consulates.

Al Hamra Sets New Record with Ras Al Khaimah’s Largest-Ever Single Residential Sale at USD 35.4 Million

News 4 months ago

Ras Al Khaimah, January 22, 2026 : Al Hamra has set a new benchmark in Ras Al Khaimah’s luxury real estate market with the sale of the Sky Palace at the Waldorf Astoria Residences Ras Al Khaimah for USD 35.4 million (AED 130 million), marking the highest-value single-unit residential transaction ever recorded in the emirate.

In a separate high-profile deal, the developer also completed the sale of the development’s signature penthouse for USD 15 million (AED 55 million), further highlighting the growing demand for premium, lifestyle-driven residential offerings in Ras Al Khaimah.

Together, the two landmark transactions reinforce Al Hamra’s standing as one of the UAE’s most trusted real estate developers, showcasing its capability to conceptualize, deliver, and market ultra-luxury residential projects that meet international standards.

The Sky Palace is a one-of-a-kind residence crowning the uppermost levels of the beachfront Waldorf Astoria Residences tower. Spanning approximately 10,000 square feet across three levels, the home offers unmatched scale, exclusivity, and privacy. Residents enjoy sweeping, uninterrupted views of the Arabian Gulf, the upcoming Wynn Al Marjan Island integrated resort, and the rugged Hajar Mountains.

Owners of the Sky Palace benefit from exclusive access to private residents’ amenities located on the 16th floor, including a residents’ lounge, library, cigar lounge, and private cinema. A dedicated ferry service connects residents directly to Wynn Al Marjan Island, providing seamless access to world-class dining, entertainment, and leisure while maintaining the privacy of an elite residential address.

The development’s signature penthouse, also housed within the beachfront tower, spans approximately 6,000 square feet across the 19th and 20th floors. Designed with privacy and refinement in mind, the residence offers 360-degree panoramic views, redefining elevated coastal living in one of Ras Al Khaimah’s most sought-after waterfront locations.

Commenting on the milestone, Benoy J. Kurien, Group Chief Executive Officer of Al Hamra, said: “The Sky Palace embodies our vision for luxury living in Ras Al Khaimah, where exclusivity, scale, and quality of life converge to create lasting value. This record-setting sale reflects not only the market’s confidence in the emirate’s growth trajectory, but our belief that the most enduring investments are those that enrich how life is lived.”

With these milestone transactions, Al Hamra has set a new standard for ultra-luxury residential development in Ras Al Khaimah, further strengthening the emirate’s profile as an emerging global lifestyle and investment destination.