Year: 2026

Dubai, January 13 , 2026 :
As part of an initiative to welcome tourists and visitors to a healthier lifestyle, welcome souvenir stickers featuring the “Dubai Cycling Pass” are now being distributed to passengers arriving at Dubai Airport. The initiative, launched by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), involves handing out welcome mementos embedded with a QR code to travelers arriving at Dubai International Airport.

The project is implemented under the theme “From Airport to Track,” with the aim of connecting visitors to the city’s sports and fitness culture from the moment they arrive in Dubai for tourism. By scanning the QR code on the sticker, passengers can access complete information about the Dubai Cycling Pass initiative. Details such as approved cycling tracks across the city, bicycle rental and sales centers, and other useful guidelines are available at their fingertips. Through this initiative, tourism goes beyond sightseeing to become an experience that promotes physical activity and well-being.

Health and an active lifestyle are key elements of Dubai’s tourism vision. Beyond luxury hotels and shopping destinations, open spaces connected to nature, cycling tracks, and walking paths are increasingly becoming major attractions in the city. The Dubai Cycling Pass represents a practical expression of this vision.

The project was inaugurated on January 10, 2026, at the Nad Al Sheba Cycling Track. In its first phase, nine selected, officially approved cycling tracks across different parts of the city have been included. The journey, which extends from tracks in the city center to routes surrounded by forests and desert landscapes, showcases Dubai’s geographical diversity along with its commitment to a health-friendly urban environment.

Key features of the initiative include a digital cycling passport, a virtual stamp system, a manual cycling passport, and symbolic gifts for active participants. The program is designed to consistently encourage both visitors and residents to engage in physical activities.

The General Directorate stated that the Dubai Cycling Pass will play a vital role in strengthening Dubai’s position as an active tourism destination, while also fostering health awareness within the community and promoting a sustainable lifestyle. The initiative, which brings together tourism and health culture, is seen as a clear reflection of Dubai’s future urban vision.

Sharjah , January 13, 2026 : The Sharjah FDI Office (Invest in Sharjah), in collaboration with the Indian Business and Professional Council in Sharjah, convened the Sharjah–India Business Roundtable to strengthen economic cooperation and expand joint investment opportunities between Sharjah and India.

The roundtable highlighted Sharjah’s growing role as a regional gateway for Indian businesses, with discussions focused on priority sectors including manufacturing, technology and logistics. Bilateral trade between Sharjah and India reached AED 14.39 billion in 2025, supported by the UAE–India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).

Sharjah currently hosts more than 41,000 Indian companies across free zones and the mainland, while Indian investments have generated over 3,600 jobs in the emirate over the past five years. Indian investor activity in Sharjah’s real estate sector totalled AED 6.1 billion over the past nine months.

Senior officials from Sharjah and India attending the roundtable reaffirmed confidence in continued growth in 2026, citing Sharjah’s stable regulatory environment, diversified economy and strong infrastructure. Speakers highlighted the emirate’s appeal for Indian companies seeking regional expansion and long-term investment opportunities.

The roundtable forms part of Invest in Sharjah’s strategy to strengthen partnerships with high-growth markets, attract quality foreign investment and reinforce Sharjah’s position as a competitive and sustainable business destination.

Dubai , January 13 , 2026 : Messe Frankfurt Middle East has unveiled Intersec Global, a new unified international brand bringing together the world’s leading security, safety and resilience events under a single global platform headquartered in Dubai.

The new identity was officially launched during a press conference at Intersec 2026 with key partners including the General Command of Dubai Civil Defence, the Security Industry Regulatory Agency (SIRA) and NAFFCO, positioning Dubai as the world’s convening hub for safety, security and resilience.

Intersec Global marks the evolution of the long-running exhibition into a connected international ecosystem that unites governments, regulators, industry leaders and innovators to address global security challenges across physical, digital and human domains.

The platform will serve as the flagship for a global portfolio of events, including Intersec Europe, Intersec Saudi Arabia, Intersec Shanghai, Intersec Buenos Aires, and the Secutech series across Asia, strengthening international collaboration and knowledge exchange.

Messe Frankfurt Middle East said the new identity reflects both Intersec’s global reach and the UAE’s growing role in shaping international standards for resilience, crisis preparedness and security innovation.

Intersec 2026, the largest edition to date, continues at the Dubai World Trade Centre until 14 January.

Dubai , January 13, 2026 : Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is set to launch a new pilot
initiative on school transport pooling during the first quarter of 2026, as part
of ongoing efforts to advance a smart and sustainable transport system and
enhance the efficiency of daily mobility for school students, in collaboration
with Yango Group and Urban Express Transport.
The announcement follows the signing of two memoranda of understanding
by RTA with the two companies to pilot the implementation of the initiative.
Ahmed Hashem Bahrozyan, CEO of Public Transport Agency, signed the
memoranda of understanding on behalf of RTA. Islam Abdul Karim,
Regional Head of Yango Group signed on behalf of the company, while Dr.
Mohammad Al Hashimi, Founder and CEO of Urban Express Transport,
signed on behalf of the company.
Ahmed Hashem Bahrozyan, CEO of Public Transport Agency, RTA,
said:
“In recent years, a noticeable increase has been observed in the number of
private vehicles used to transport students to and from schools, which
directly affects traffic flow around school zones. Through this initiative, RTA
aims to offer an alternative school transport solution at affordable rates,
helping to improve traffic movement and deliver a more efficient daily
mobility experience.”
He added: “The pilot initiative will be implemented in accordance with the
highest approved safety and security standards governing school transport,
and in full compliance with the regulatory and legislative frameworks in
force across the Emirate. The initiative will incorporate smart technological
solutions for trip management, vehicle tracking, and operational monitoring,
ensuring efficiency and service quality for parents and students alike.”

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He further explained: “The initiative involves the operation of shared buses
serving multiple schools located within defined geographic zones,
contributing to faster student arrival times and playing a key role in
improving traffic flow around school areas across Dubai.”
He added: “The initiative aims to explore innovative school transport
models based on the principle of pooling, supporting better vehicle
utilisation, reducing traffic congestion during peak hours, and raising safety
and quality standards in student transport services. The initiative also
aligns with Dubai’s strategic directions in digital transformation and
environmental sustainability.”
He concluded: “The pilot represents a step change towards developing new
models for school transport in Dubai. It will pave the way for assessing
outcomes, measuring operational and societal impact, and studying the
potential for wider rollout in the future, thereby reinforcing Dubai’s position
as a global leader in smart and sustainable mobility solutions.”
Islam Abdul Karim, Regional Head of Yango Group said: “School
transport is one of the most complex and congested daily mobility
challenges in any city, sitting at the intersection of safety, efficiency, cost,
and daily family routines. Through this pilot with RTA, we are introducing a
data-driven school transport pooling model that groups students travelling
along similar routes into shared buses operating on optimised routes and
schedules. By improving route planning, vehicle utilisation, and real-time
operational oversight, the initiative aims to reduce peak-hour traffic
pressure, enhance service reliability, and deliver a safer, more affordable,
and more convenient experience for families.”
Dr. Mohammad Al Hashimi, Founder & CEO of Urban Express
Transport, said: “In collaboration with the Roads and Transport Authority
(RTA), Urban Express Transport is proud to support this strategic school
transport optimisation project, which aims to reduce congestion, improve
bus utilisation, and enhance the daily travel experience for students.
Through innovative approaches such as school bus pooling and flexible
services, the initiative contributes to safer, more affordable, and sustainable
mobility solutions in line with Dubai’s long-term transport vision.”

Dubai , January 12 , 2026 : His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Ports and Borders Security Council, today opened the 27th edition of Intersec, the world’s leading exhibition for security, safety and fire protection, at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

Running until 14 January, Intersec 2026 brings together more than 1,200 exhibitors from over 60 countries and is expected to attract over 50,000 visitors. The exhibition spans approximately 65,000 square metres and features an extensive conference programme with participation from over 250 global experts and speakers, reflecting the scale and international importance of the event.

During the opening tour, His Highness was accompanied by senior officials including Lieutenant General Expert Rashid Thani Al Matrooshi, Commander-in-Chief of Dubai Civil Defence; Dr Abdulla Busenad, Director General of Dubai Customs; Lieutenant General Awad Hader Al Muhairi, Vice President of Dubai’s State Security Department; Mishal Julfar, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services; and Khalifa Ibrahim Al-Sleis, CEO of the Security Industry Regulatory Authority (SIRA).

His Highness said that Intersec reflects Dubai’s position as a leading global hub for advanced security and safety ecosystems, bringing together government entities, private sector leaders, decision-makers and international experts.

“Intersec has become one of the world’s leading platforms dedicated to security and safety. The scale of international participation reflects the growing confidence in Dubai’s ability to host major global events that help shape the future of key sectors,” Sheikh Mansoor said.

He added that the rapid evolution of security, safety and emergency response technologies requires continuous integration between innovation, institutional readiness and real-world application.

“Dubai remains committed to strengthening this approach by organising exhibitions that bring together global expertise, helping to enhance community security and improve safety systems in line with the highest international standards,” he said.

During his visit, Sheikh Mansoor reviewed a wide range of advanced technologies and solutions presented by national, regional and international companies. He toured the pavilions of Transguard, LINEV Systems, SIRA and Axis Communications, as well as Motorola Solutions, Keniventi (Robert Bosch), UXE, WEFLO, Lichfield Fire and Safety, Bristol Fire Engineering, and the General Command of Dubai Civil Defence. The tour concluded at NAFFCO, where he reviewed innovative fire protection and emergency response solutions.

Dishan Isaac, Show Director of Intersec at Messe Frankfurt Middle East, said the exhibition comes at a critical time for the global security industry.

“As risks become more complex and expectations around preparedness continue to rise, Intersec provides a vital platform for government and industry leaders to engage in meaningful dialogue and shape the next generation of security, safety and emergency response solutions,” he said.

Intersec 2026 showcases innovations across five core sectors: Homeland Security and Policing, Cybersecurity, Commercial and Perimeter Security, Fire and Rescue, and Health and Safety, offering a comprehensive overview of how governments and organisations are addressing both physical and digital risks.

The exhibition’s programme continues over the next two days with the International Security Leaders’ Summit, the Fire and Rescue Conference organised by the National Fire Protection Association, the Control Room Innovation Theatre, and the Innovation Forum. The event will conclude with the Intersec Awards 2026, to be held at the Conrad Dubai.

Dubai , January 10 , 2026 : The United Arab Emirates is expanding its scientific footprint in the Arctic and Antarctic through strategic treaty accessions, research partnerships, exploration programmes and record-setting individual expeditions aimed at advancing global climate change research.

The UAE strengthened its role in polar science by acceding to the Antarctic Treaty System under Federal Decree No. 165 of 2024. This membership allows the UAE to participate in consultative meetings and propose national research initiatives alongside international climate agencies. Simultaneously, the UAE has secured observer status on the Arctic Council under Federal Decree No. 164 of 2024, facilitating broader involvement in northern environmental dialogues and future research programmes.

In February, Emirati meteorology and seismology specialists in a joint mission with the Bulgarian Antarctic Institute installed two advanced monitoring stations in Antarctica to collect vital data on atmospheric and seismic activities in Antarctica.

This collaboration continued in November when a UAE scientific team took part in Bulgaria’s 34th Antarctic expedition for the second consecutive year. The team is working through UAE laboratories at the Bulgarian base in Antarctica, where research projects launched under the UAE Polar Programme in 2024 are being developed and upgraded. The programme aims to build national capabilities in polar science and strengthen the UAE’s contribution to global climate research.

In 2025, the UAE signed memoranda of understanding with Argentina and New Zealand to enhance cooperation in Antarctic research, exchange academic expertise and support national capacity-building in polar sciences. This agreement focuses on institutional cooperation and best practices in polar research, supporting the UAE’s long-term goal of establishing its own permanent research laboratories at both poles.

The UAE’s presence in the region has also been marked by several individual milestones in extreme exploration. This month, 18-year-old Emirati mountaineer Fatima Abdulrahman Al Awadhi became the youngest Arab woman to summit Mount Vinson, Antarctica’s highest peak. This follows a record-breaking mission by Emirati explorer Ibrahim Sharaf Al Hashemi, who completed the first circular flight around Antarctica, using two helicopters. The 19,050-kilometre expedition, which took place from 4th December 2024 to 17th January 2025, startedand ended at Union Glacier Camp

These achievements build on the legacy of Abdullah Al-Ahbabi becoming the first Emirati to complete the “polar hat-trick” – skiing unsupported to the North Pole, South Pole and across Greenland. Alahbabi completed the North Pole feat in 2018, the South Pole mission in 2019, and crossed Greenland in March 2025.

Abu Dhabi, January 9, 2026 : The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) has forecast fair to partly cloudy weather across the UAE tomorrow, with low clouds expected to form over some eastern and northern regions and a possibility of rainfall.

According to the NCM, weather conditions will become humid during the night and into Sunday morning, particularly over coastal areas, raising the chance of light fog in some locations.

Winds are expected to be light to moderate, occasionally becoming active. They will blow from southeasterly to northeasterly directions at speeds ranging between 10 and 25 km/h, with gusts reaching up to 35 km/h at times.

Sea conditions in the Arabian Gulf will be light to moderate. High tides are expected at 17:42 and 06:45, while low tides will occur at 11:59 and 23:45.

In the Sea of Oman, waves will also remain light to moderate. High tides are forecast at 15:32 and 02:35, with low tides expected at 09:17 and 19:55.

Residents are advised to stay updated with official weather reports, particularly in areas prone to fog or changing sea conditions.

Sharjah , January 9 ,2026: Sharjah is set for a vibrant cultural celebration as Strikers Dance and Entertainment Services presents “RANGOTSAV – The Indian Night” on January 18, 2026, at The Flag Island, Sharjah, recognized as a prime destination by the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq). The event promises a spectacular evening of music, dance, fashion, and artistic performances, celebrating the rich diversity of Indian culture. The program will run from 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM, offering an extended experience of entertainment for all.

A highlight of the evening will be “Timeless Echoes of SPB,” a special musical tribute honoring the legendary playback singer S. P. Balasubrahmanyam. Ms. Padma Ramachandran, CEO of Strikers Dance and Entertainment Services, described the segment as a dignified homage to the iconic artist’s enduring legacy.

The program will feature energetic Bollywood performances, classical Indian dance forms like Kathak, fashion shows, and performances by emerging local talents. Renowned singers Nikhil Mathew, Varsha S. Krishnan, and Akhila will deliver live renditions of romantic songs, soulful melodies, and popular Bollywood hits, with additional appearances by well-known artists enhancing the grandeur of the night.

Entry to the event is free, reflecting the organizers’ vision of a community celebration that brings people together through art, music, and culture. Since 2016, Strikers Dance and Entertainment Services has been a prominent presence in the UAE’s entertainment scene, known for organizing numerous cultural programs and pioneering the UAE’s first combined Dance and Singing Reality Show on a leading Asian channel in the MENA region.

With its colorful performances and festive atmosphere, RANGOTSAV – The Indian Night is poised to be one of Sharjah’s most memorable cultural events of the year.

Abudhbai, January , 2026 : Etihad Airways has announced the launch of flights to Luxembourg, marking a historic milestone as the first airline from the Middle East to serve the country.

When services commence on 29th October 2026, Etihad will also become the only airline offering nonstop flights between Luxembourg and Abu Dhabi, creating a new direct air link between two important European and Middle Eastern centres.

The new route reflects growing demand from travellers across Luxembourg, the Benelux region, France and Germany for direct access to Abu Dhabi.

Services will operate to Luxembourg Airport (LUX), providing guests with direct access to the beautiful emirate of Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s vibrant capital and a gateway to Arabian culture, world-class hospitality, and year-round sunshine.

Flights will operate three times weekly using Etihad’s state-of-the-art A321LR, offering guests the most premium direct travel option between Luxembourg and the UAE.

The route will enhance connectivity for both business and leisure travellers, while further strengthening economic and cultural ties between the EU and the UAE. With Luxembourg also serving as a gateway market for neighbouring France, Germany and Belgium, the new service strengthens Etihad’s presence across these broader European markets.

Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer at Etihad Airways, said, “We are delighted to announce this landmark route, made possible by the launch of the A321LR last year. This incredible aircraft brings our guests a truly premium experience while allowing us to cater to markets which may otherwise be unserved. For the first time, Luxembourg will be directly connected to the Middle East, with Etihad as the only airline offering a nonstop link to Abu Dhabi.

“This route is about more than connectivity – it is about building new bridges between Europe and the UAE, unlocking opportunities for business, tourism and cultural exchange. Travellers from Luxembourg can look forward to convenient direct access to Abu Dhabi’s world-class attractions, luxury hotels and authentic Arabian experiences, while benefiting from seamless onward connections across our global network.