Xposure 2026 Opens in Sharjah with Strong Public Turnout

Xposure 2026 Opens in Sharjah with Strong Public Turnout

News 4 days ago

Sharjah, January 29, 2026 — The Xposure International Photography Festival 2026 opened to a strong public turnout on Thursday, as visitors gathered at Aljada in Sharjah to experience the opening day of the festival’s landmark 10th edition, held under the theme “A Decade of Visual Storytelling.”

Audiences explored a wide range of interactive displays, exhibitions and introductory sessions as Xposure launched its seven-day programme dedicated to photography, film and visual storytelling. The festival offers an extensive lineup of activities, including workshops for children and adults, public talks, panel discussions, portfolio review sessions, and opportunities to engage directly with photographers and documentary filmmakers from around the world.

A highlight of this year’s edition was the introduction of an interactive experience that brought photography and music together, expanding visual storytelling beyond static images into live artistic performance. In one of the festival halls, photographic exhibitions were complemented by musical renditions of classic works by Umm Kulthum and Fairuz, performed by Julie Al Bahiri, a media student at the American University of Sharjah (AUS), alongside her colleague Abdulrahman Tawfiq on the oud.

The spontaneous performance blended seamlessly with the surrounding exhibitions, creating a dynamic interaction between visitors and the creative space, and drawing warm engagement from audiences. The musical intervention reflects Xposure’s broader commitment to supporting emerging talent and providing the public with an integrated artistic experience where image and sound intersect.

Education and professional development remain central to Xposure 2026, with 280 portfolio review sessions, a wide range of hands-on workshops, and discussions examining visual storytelling across editorial, documentary and creative practices.

Spanning indoor and outdoor spaces across Aljada’s 49,000-square-metre venue, the festival features 95 exhibitions showcasing more than 3,200 artworks. In total, over 570 visual events are scheduled throughout the festival, organised across 12 thematic zones.

The 10th edition of the Xposure International Photography Festival runs from January 29 to February 4, 2026, at Aljada, Sharjah.

Mark & Save Expands Regional Footprint with Opening of 22nd Hyperstore in the GCC

News 5 days ago

Ajman, UAE – January 28, 2026

Mark & Save, one of the Gulf region’s fastest-growing large-format value retail chains, has strengthened its regional presence with the opening of its 22nd hyperstore in the GCC, marking its ninth outlet in the UAE. The new hyperstore, located in Al Tallah, Ajman, is part of the company’s aggressive expansion strategy that will see seven additional stores launched across the GCC within the next six months.

Spanning over 100,000 square feet, the multi-storied hyperstore has been designed to offer customers a spacious, comfortable, and convenient shopping environment. It features an extensive range of categories including fresh food, groceries, household essentials, electronics, hot food, bakery, fashion, and lifestyle products, positioning the outlet as a comprehensive one-stop shopping destination.

Established in 2022 to address a growing demand for value-driven retail in the region, Mark & Save has rapidly scaled its operations in just a few years. The Ajman opening underscores the brand’s growing popularity among cost-conscious consumers seeking quality products at competitive prices.

“Mark & Save continues to expand its footprint across the UAE and the GCC by combining value-driven pricing with an unmatched customer experience,” said Debangshu Adhikari, Senior Vice President at Mark & Save. “We are extremely encouraged by the increasing consumer confidence in our value proposition, which delivers high-quality products at very affordable prices while maximizing customer savings.”

He added that the brand challenges the long-held perception that quality must come at a premium. “Our business model proves that high-quality products can indeed be affordable. By closely listening to our customers, we are able to continuously redefine value in the retail space.”

Operational excellence has played a key role in the brand’s rapid growth. Mohammed Fasil, Head of Operations at Mark & Save, highlighted the significance of reaching 22 stores within three years. “This achievement reflects strong teamwork, effective leadership, and meticulous planning executed with precision, particularly in an intensely competitive retail environment,” he said.

As part of its expansion strategy, Mark & Save has diversified its supply chain, sourcing products from countries including Poland, Turkey, Norway, the UK, Spain, China, Bangladesh, and Thailand, ensuring variety, quality, and competitive pricing across its product portfolio.

With a workforce exceeding 5,000 employees, the retailer continues to contribute to job creation and growth within the regional retail sector. Each Mark & Save hyperstore offers access to more than 200,000 product varieties under one roof, reinforcing the brand’s positioning as a destination for “affordable luxury.”

Mark & Save operates under the umbrella of Western International Group, one of the largest retail networks in the GCC. Currently present in the UAE, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia, the company has outlined ambitious global growth plans, targeting 500 stores worldwide, including future expansions into India, Southeast Asia, North America, and Europe.

Honouring the Past, Shaping the Future: Gargash Redesigns its Mercedes- Benz Deira Showroom

News 5 days ago

Dubai , January 28 , 2026 : Gargash Enterprises unveils its redesigned Mercedes-Benz Deira showroom today, marking a significant
milestone for one of Dubai’s most established automotive destinations. The showroom welcomes
stakeholders, long-time customers, collectors, families and brand enthusiasts, offering an experience rooted in
heritage, while reflecting a future-focused retail environment.
The showroom has stood as a trusted landmark for generations of customers, originally opening its doors to
the public in 1968. This transformation represents a strategic step forward for a location that has served as
both a cultural heartbeat and a thriving commercial hub for UAE customers for generations, preserving and
elevating its remarkable legacy.
The redesigned showroom showcases the latest Mercedes-Benz MAR20X retail concept, introducing a refined
and immersive experience to enhance the customer journey from first interaction through to ownership. The
space has been curated to feel distinctly modern while retaining the warmth and familiarity that has defined the
Deira showroom for decades.
The showroom introduces the region’s first MANUFAKTUR Lounge, a dedicated area that allows customers
to explore the highest degree of customisation through a selection of materials, colours and finishes that go
beyond standard options – creating a bespoke brand experience. MANUFAKTUR represents Mercedes-Benz’s
pinnacle customisation programme. It transforms the driving experience through exclusive exterior upgrades
and luxurious interior detailing, all handcrafted to perfectly capture each owner’s individual taste and elegance.
Speaking on the evolution of Mercedes-Benz’s retail presence in the region, Michael Stroband, President &
CEO, Mercedes-Benz Cars Middle East; Global Head of Mercedes-Benz General Distributors, said: “As
Mercedes-Benz approaches a significant milestone of 140 years since the invention of the automobile, this
moment reinforces what has always defined the brand: innovation, craftsmanship, and experiences that
connect across every customer touchpoint. Physical spaces remain critical to how we translate our values into
tangible experiences, where customers feel trust, familiarity, and a true sense of home with the brand.
Alongside the introduction of the region’s first MANUFAKTUR Lounge, the next two years are defined by our
most significant product launch plan in history. This gives us a clear roadmap and a strong foundation to
continue shaping the region’s future of mobility, together with our longstanding partner, Gargash Enterprises.”

“The newly renovated Deira showroom brings a modern world-class Mercedes-Benz experience once again, in
the very location where Gargash has been serving Dubai’s growing community since 1968. So many of our
customers’ Mercedes stories first began at this very location”, said Shehab Gargash, Managing Director &
Group CEO, Gargash Group.
Gargash Enterprises believes in celebrating engineering excellence and timeless quality in a highly
experiential way. It is a fully committed Mercedes-Benz partner that invests in global brand consistency,
immersive brand displays and a future-focused retail environment offering a memorable experience for its
customers.

إنجاز 67 تحسيناً مرورياً سريعاً في 2025 والتخطيط لــ 45 تحسيناً في 2026 (1)

Dubai RTA Delivers 67 Rapid Traffic Improvements in2025, Plans a Further 45 in 2026

News 5 days ago

Dubai January 28 , 2026 : Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) completed 67 rapid traffic improvement measures across various areas of the emirate in 2025. These included 46 enhancements at key locations along major arterial roads and within residential areas, 12 improvements in school zones, and nine traffic enhancements across development
areas. This achievement forms part of a comprehensive strategic plan developed by the RTA to deliver rapid traffic improvement
measures aimed at optimising road network efficiency, improving traffic flow, and maintaining the safety of all road users.
RTA is preparing to implement more than 45 traffic improvement measures in 2026, including the widening and upgrading of key
intersections and development areas, enhancements to entry and exit points in residential and commercial districts, and the delivery of a package of rapid traffic improvement measures within school zones.
These traffic improvements reflect RTA’s commitment to delivering the leadership’s vision for sustainable infrastructure development, supporting mobility efficiency, reducing travel time & traffic congestion, and strengthening connectivity between residential, educational, and development areas.

The initiatives align with Dubai’s ongoing urban growth while contributing to improved quality
of life and community well-being across the emirate.
The rapid traffic solutions and improvement measures implemented in 2025 delivered tangible and measurable impacts, including enhanced road network efficiency, improved vehicular flow, and
reduced journey times by up to 45% within improvement areas. The measures also contributed to increasing

vehicular capacity by up to 33% on several roads within the scope of the work of these improvements.
Traffic Improvements in Key Areas and Major Roads . The solutions and improvement undertaken in 2025 gave gad a
clear impact in enhancing traffic flow and expanding road capacity  across several key areas, most notably Al Warqa’a, Al Barsha
South, Nad Al Hamar, and Al Ras, as well as along major corridors including Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Meydan Street, Emirates Road towards Sharjah, Umm Al Sheif Street, Al Wasl Street, Ras Al Khor  Road, Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan Al Nahyan Street, and Al Manara Street. In 2025, RTA also completed a series of enhancements along key
roads, most notably the widening of Sheikh Zayed Road towards Al Meydan Street from two to three lanes at the entrance to Al
Khawaneej, as well as increasing the capacity of Al Meydan Bridge from three to four lanes. The works further included widening the exit from Sheikh Zayed Road to Al Meydan Street from one to two lanes and expanding the connecting links between at-grade roads and the bridge. Additional traffic improvements were implemented at the intersection of Al Wasl Street and Al Manara Street, resulting in a 50% increase in vehicular capacity and more than 30% reduction
in waiting times. Traffic Improvements in School Zones  Over the past year, RTA also implemented 12 traffic improvement
measures serving more than 30 schools across Dubai, as part of its strategy to enhance road network efficiency and ensure smoother traffic operations, particularly within school zones.
Key locations included Al Warqa’a First School Complex, Mizhar First School Complex, Al Qusais School Complex, Al Mawakeb
School in Al Garhoud, English College in Al Safa 1, Zayed Educational Complex in Mizhar 4, and Al Barsha South School
Complex, in addition to several other schools across various areas of the emirate.

The improvements included providing dedicated parking areas, upgrades to entry and exit points, and implementing traffic calming measures, contributing to reduced congestion and queuing, while improving road efficiency and enhancing traffic safety levels in school zones.

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

News 6 days 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 1 week 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 1 week 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 1 week 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 1 week 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 1 week 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.