Year: 2026

Abudhabi , January 7, 2026 : Al Masaood Automobiles, the authorised Nissan distributor in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and the Al Dhafra Region, has launched a New Year campaign featuring limited-time offers across its Nissan new car range and services, giving customers a strong start to 2026.

The promotion includes competitive pricing and savings on popular Nissan sedans, SUVs and performance models. Highlights include the Nissan Z from AED 2,435 per month, savings of up to AED 9,000 on the Altima, up to AED 7,500 on the KICKS, and up to AED 7,000 on the Magnite. SUV offers include savings of up to AED 20,000 on the Patrol, up to AED 14,500 on the X-TERRA, and up to AED 23,000 on the X-Trail. All offers are available for a limited time and subject to stock availability and terms and conditions.

Bachir Gemayel, Sales and Marketing Director at Al Masaood Automobiles, said the campaign is designed to help customers make confident decisions at the start of the year, supported by strong value, comprehensive warranty coverage and aftersales benefits.

All vehicles included in the campaign come with a five-year warranty and Nissan Roadside Assistance. In addition, existing Nissan owners can benefit from a service promotion running until 24 January 2026, where customers spending AED 1,000 or more at Nissan Abu Dhabi service centres will be entered into a draw to win a Nissan Magnite or complimentary service packages.

The campaign reinforces Al Masaood Automobiles’ focus on delivering value across both vehicle purchases and aftersales support throughout the ownership journey.

Sharjah , January 7 , 2026 : The Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival (SEF) has announced the first group of speakers for its 9th edition, featuring global founders, CEOs, investors, creatives and thought leaders from across multiple industries. Organized by the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa), SEF 2026 will take place from January 31 to February 1 at Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park (SPARK), bringing together entrepreneurs, investors, professionals and emerging talent from around the world.

The initial lineup reflects SEF’s cross-sector focus, with speakers from foodtech, sports, lifestyle, technology, health and sustainability sharing practical insights on building, scaling and sustaining businesses in a rapidly changing economy. Sheraa CEO H.E. Sara Abdelaziz Al Nuaimi said the festival aims to break down silos and equip founders with the knowledge and perspectives needed to build competitive, responsible and adaptable ventures.

Notable speakers include four-time Formula One World Champion Sebastian Vettel, who will highlight environmental and social initiatives; entrepreneur and disability rights advocate Ghanim Al-Muftah; and Heather Hasson, Co-CEO of FIGS and the first female co-chief executive to take a company public on the New York Stock Exchange. Also featured are Shahzad Younas, founder of Muzz; Hamad Al Hajri, co-founder and CEO of Qatar’s “super app” Snoonu; Bioniq founder Vadim Fedotov; and Emirati racing pioneer Amna Al Qubaisi.

The program will also spotlight innovation and wellbeing, with speakers such as ŌURA CEO Tom Hale, Calo founder Ahmed Al Rawi, Friends That Invest founder Simran Kaur, mental health advocate Kareem Esmail, and communications leader Souad Al Serkal.

With an expected audience of 14,000, SEF 2026 aims to serve as a major platform for knowledge exchange, collaboration and inspiration across the global entrepreneurship and innovation ecosystem.

Dubai, January 7, 2026: Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has completed traffic
expansion works on Al Warqa’a 1 Street, covering a total length of 7 km in both directions, from Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road to Ras Al Khor Road. The scope of works included the conversion of four roundabouts into smart signalised intersections, contributing to an improvement in traffic flow of up to 30%. These efforts reflect
RTA’s standing commitment to enhancing the efficiency of the local road network, supporting smoother daily mobility, and improving residents’ quality of life.
The traffic expansion works also included an integrated package of solutions, comprising the construction of advanced stormwater drainage networks with a total length of 6,600 linear metres, the
installation of 324 lighting poles equipped with modern street-lighting systems, and the provision of 111 new parking spaces. In addition, pedestrian pathways were developed across a total area of 41,000
square metres, contributing to improved traffic flow and enhanced safety for all road users.
Hamad Al Shehhi, Director of Roads at Traffic and Roads Agency, RTA, said, “This project builds on works completed by RTA in June 2025, which included the construction of direct entry and exit points to Al Warqa’a from Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road to facilitate smoother access to and from the area. It also encompassed traffic improvement works on 13th Street in Al Warqa’a 1, extending approximately 8 km in both directions, to serve Al Warqa’a residents and school users, as part of the project to develop the internal road network in the area.

Al Shehhi added: “RTA is firmly committed to developing integrated infrastructure encompassing road networks, street lighting, and stormwater drainage systems, in line with Dubai’s population and
urban growth targets. These efforts respond to residents’ aspirations for an advanced urban environment and support Dubai’s vision as a smart and prosperous city that places quality of life and residents’ happiness at the forefront of its priorities.” “The development projects currently being implemented by RTA in Al Warqa’a area include upgrading the internal road networks in Al Warqa’a 3 and Al Warqa’a 4. The scope of works involves road
paving, the construction of pedestrian pathways and pavements, and provision of parking spaces, in addition to development of cycling tracks. These projects aim to enhance connectivity with
cycling routes in neighbouring areas and support alternative and
sustainable mobility options.”

RTA held an interactive session last October with residents an visitors of Mirdif and Al Warqa’a to brief the public on the latest developments of Dubai Metro Blue Line project within their residential areas. The session also reviewed RTA initiatives to develop and enhance the road network, highlighting ongoing efforts to improve residents’ satisfaction and facilitate daily mobility. The session discussed several key topics, most notably the traffic diversions scheduled to be implemented in Al Warqa’a and Mirdif during the various phases of the project. This approach reflects RTA’s commitment to direct engagement with citizens, residents, and visitors across Dubai by keeping them informed of project updates, listening to their feedback and needs, and transforming them into practical solutions that contribute to improving the quality
of life.

Dubai,January 5, 2026:​ Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) has unveiled its H1 2026 events calendar, featuring 71 international exhibitions and conferences set to reinforce Dubai’s position as a global hub for business, trade and investment.

Spanning the first half of the year, the diverse calendar brings together global industry leaders, investors and innovators across sectors including healthcare, food and beverage, energy, tourism, technology, mobility, security, manufacturing and culture. Several large-scale and co-located events will take place across Dubai World Trade Centre and the newly expanded Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC), activating the city and amplifying economic impact.

Mahir Julfar, Executive Vice President, Dubai World Trade Centre, said the H1 line-up reflects DWTC’s role as a key driver of business tourism and economic growth in line with Dubai’s Economic Agenda D33.​ “Our world-class exhibitions and conferences act as strategic drivers for business tourism, international investment and cross-sector collaboration. By hosting select mega events across DWTC and the expanded Dubai Exhibition Centre, we are doubling the city’s capacity to host global events, enabling further growth across industries and enhancing our contribution to the local economy,” Julfar said.

Strong Start to the Year with Global Mega Events

The year begins with Intersec (12–14 January), the region’s leading platform for security, safety and fire protection, running alongside Light + Intelligent Building Middle East. These will be followed by FESPA Middle East (13–15 January), catering to the specialty printing and signage industry.

January also sees the return of World of Coffee Dubai (18–20 January) and AEEDC Dubai (19–21 January), the world’s largest annual dental conference and exhibition. The month concludes with Gulfood (26–30 January), the world’s largest food and beverage sourcing event, co-hosted at DWTC and DEC and marking the first mega event to be staged at the expanded DEC.

Healthcare, Aviation and Industrial Focus in February

February will spotlight healthcare, aviation and logistics with events including Aircraft Interiors Middle East, MRO Middle East, Breakbulk Middle East, and World Shisha Show (4–5 February). The Dubai 2026 World Stamp Exhibition (4–8 February) will also bring global collectors to the city.​ Healthcare takes centre stage with World Health Expo – WHX (9–12 February), formerly Arab Health, celebrating over 50 years of industry leadership, alongside WHX Labs (10–13 February), previously Medlab Middle East.

Ramadan, Then Momentum Continues Post-Eid

During Ramadan, DWTC will host The Majlis (18 February – 19 March), welcoming guests for Iftar throughout the holy month. Following Eid Al Fitr, the calendar resumes with DUPHAT (24–26 March), Dubai Derma (31 March – 2 April) and Gulf Print & Gulf Pack.​ April features Middle East Energy, DOMOTEX Middle East, and a mix of lifestyle and creative exhibitions including World Art Dubai, Petworld Arabia, Middle East Coatings Show, and The Baby Expo.

Travel, Technology and Infrastructure Lead May and June

May is led by Arabian Travel Market (4–7 May), alongside major global platforms such as DIHAD, GISEC Global, GETEX Spring, Seamless Middle East, and Airport Show & Global Airport Leaders Forum.​ The first half of the year concludes in June with a strong focus on hospitality, design, mobility and public safety, including The Hotel Show, INDEX, CABSAT, Middle East Rail, MOVE Middle East, Solar & Storage Live, China Home Life, and the World Police Summit (23–25 June).

With its expansive and strategically curated calendar, DWTC continues to play a pivotal role in driving international business engagement, trade growth and global investment, reinforcing Dubai’s standing as one of the world’s leading destinations for major events.

Dubai, UAE – January 5, 2026: Global Village, the region’s leading multicultural family destination for entertainment, shopping, dining and attractions, has announced the return of its popular family event, “The Wonderers’ Kids Fest,” promising bigger games and more outdoor fun for young visitors this season.

Running from Friday, January 9 to Sunday, February 15, 2026, the festival will take place daily from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM, offering families 45 days of engaging activities designed especially for children aged 3 to 12. The event is included with the purchase of a Global Village entry ticket, allowing guests to enjoy all activities at no additional cost.

Located next to the Kids’ Theatre, The Wonderers’ Kids Fest features a dedicated outdoor space where children can participate in interactive and educational games while enjoying Dubai’s cooler winter weather. This year’s edition will officially open with a special drone show at 7:20 PM on Friday, January 9, setting the stage for weeks of family-friendly entertainment.

Young guests can once again enjoy the giant Snakes and Ladders game, a former Guinness World Record title holder, alongside popular attractions such as Giant Battleship, a life-sized 4 in a Row, and the much-loved Giant Stack’Em balancing game. The Stack’Em installation will be available in two different sizes to accommodate both younger and older children.

In addition to the large-scale games, the festival will feature a range of lively experiences including free face painting, balloon modelling, inflatable clown parades, and bubble blizzards. Families can also look forward to character meet-and-greet sessions with The Wonderers, Global Village’s mascots, as well as small giveaways for participating children.

With its mix of play, creativity and exploration, The Wonderers’ Kids Fest continues to be a seasonal highlight at Global Village, reinforcing the destination’s commitment to creating joyful experiences for families and delivering “A More Wonderful World” for guests of all ages.

Dubai , January 4, 2026 : Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has completed 60% of the Oud Maitha Road and Al Asayel Street Development Project, part of the wider Sheikh Rashid Corridor Development Project, the authority announced on January 4, 2026.

The project aims to enhance connectivity between Al Asayel Street and Al Khail Road via Al Wasl Club Street, and includes the upgrade of four major intersections, the construction of bridges spanning 4.3 kilometres, and new roads extending 14 kilometres. Once completed, it is expected to serve more than 420,000 residents by 2030.

RTA said 70% of bridge works linking Al Asayel Street to Al Khail Road towards Business Bay Crossing have been completed, with the section set to open in the first quarter of this year. About 60% of tunnel works connecting Dubai–Al Ain Road to Al Wasl Club Street have also been completed, while remaining road widening and bridge works are scheduled for opening in the third quarter.

According to RTA Director General Mattar Al Tayer, the project will increase the capacity of Oud Maitha Road by 50%, from 10,400 to 15,600 vehicles per hour in both directions, and cut travel time from 20 minutes to just five minutes. The development supports key residential and service areas including Zabeel, Al Jaddaf, Oud Maitha, Umm Hurair and Al Wasl Club.

The project includes multiple new bridges, upgraded ramps, service roads and a vehicle tunnel designed to ease congestion, improve safety and accommodate Dubai’s growing population.

Abudhbai , january 3 , 2026 : The Ministry of Defence has announced the completion of the return of all UAE Armed Forces personnel from the Republic of Yemen.

In a statement, the Ministry said the withdrawal followed the implementation of an earlier decision to conclude the remaining counter-terrorism missions. The process was carried out safely and in coordination with relevant partners, ensuring the security of all personnel.

Dubai , January 3 . 2026 : The Ministry of Education has announced new Friday school hours for public schools, effective from January 9, 2026, following the nationwide adjustment of Friday prayer and sermon timings to 12:45 pm.

Under the revised schedule, kindergarten classes will run from 8:00 am to 11:30 am. Cycle 1 (primary) schools will operate on one of two schedules: 7:10 am to 10:30 am or 8:00 am to 11:30 am. For Cycles 2 and 3, boys’ schools will run from 7:10 am to 10:30 am, while girls’ schools will operate from 8:00 am to 11:30 am.

The ministry has also urged private schools to adjust their schedules, with Friday classes not extending beyond 11:30 am, to allow students sufficient time to prepare for Friday prayers and support family cohesion.

The Ministry of Education said Friday will remain a regular instructional day, with existing attendance and dismissal policies continuing to apply, adding that the decision reflects its commitment to balancing educational continuity with religious and national values.

Ajman , January 2 , 2026 : rivate schools in the Emirate of Ajman will resume classes on Monday following the end of the winter break, with nearly 95,000 male and female students returning to school.

Aisha Sultan Al Shamsi, Executive Director of the Ajman Private Education Affairs Office, affirmed that the winter break provided students and their families with additional time to rest and recharge, as well as opportunities for travel and participation in community and national events that help strengthen a sense of belonging and national identity.

She noted that private schools have completed all preparations to welcome students back, through educational and organisational plans designed to strike a balance between academic achievement and students’ mental well-being.

Dubai , January 2 , 2026 : Dubai will host the His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Festival 2026 at Dubai International Endurance City in Seih Al Salam from 6–10 January, bringing together elite endurance riders from around the world.

Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, the prestigious festival honours his legacy as a World Endurance Champion and highlights Dubai’s position as a global hub for endurance riding.

The 19th edition will feature four major events, beginning with the 120km Ladies Endurance Ride on 6 January, followed by the 120km Private Stables Ride on 7 January, which includes incentives for Emirati breeders. The 120km Gamilati Endurance Cup for Mares will take place on 8 January, before the festival concludes with the flagship 160km Endurance Cup on 10 January.

Organised by Dubai Equestrian Club, the festival reflects the UAE’s commitment to developing equestrian sport and delivering world-class sporting events. Sponsors include Emirates Airline, Azizi Developments, and Al Tayer Motors, which will once again sponsor the Gamilati Endurance Cup for Mares and award vehicles to winners.

Officials highlighted the festival’s growing international standing and Dubai International Endurance City’s readiness to welcome global competitors, while sponsors praised the event’s role in celebrating heritage, excellence and sporting achievement.