Year: 2026

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.

Sharjah , January 9 , 2026 : A seminar on “The Emotional Trend in Arabic Poetry and Its Transformations” was held at the House of Poetry in Sharjah as part of the 22nd Sharjah Arabic Poetry Festival, bringing together academics and critics in two sessions.

The seminar was attended by Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Owais, Chairman of the Sharjah Department of Culture, Mohammed Ibrahim Al Qusair, Director of Cultural Affairs, along with poets and literary critics.

The first session, chaired by Egyptian critic Dr Mohammed Mustafa Abu Al Shawarb, featured Dr Saeed Bakkour of Morocco and Dr Ahmed Al Joua of Tunisia.

Dr Bakkour presented a paper on emotional poetry, describing emotion as an inner force shaping self-awareness, thought and feeling in Arabic verse. He said such poetry captures human inner experience across time, creating a shared space that transcends place and generations.

Dr Al Joua followed with a study on emotional trends in Arabic criticism, tracing how classical and modern Arab critics examined emotion as a driver of psychological states in texts. He said emotional approaches often originate in poetry before being reflected in criticism, arguing that poetry is inherently emotional and expressed through diverse forms.

The second session, chaired by Tunisian critic Lamia Al Aqrabi, included Dr Mahmoud Al Dabb’a of Egypt and Dr Omar Al Amri of Jordan.

Dr Al Dabb’a discussed the relationship between emotionality and cultural identity, saying emotions interact with identity through artistic expression and are shaped by history and geography as collective social forces.

Dr Al Amri closed with a paper on nature in emotional poetry, describing emotionality as a symbolic and aesthetic core of verse. He said Arab poets have long drawn on nature to express the self, feelings and psychological responses to life, integrating these elements into poetic imagery and identity.

Ajman , January 9,2026: Al Zorah Real Estate Development, the joint venture between the Government of Ajman and Solidere International, has announced the completion of the sale of the two most expensive residential units ever in the Emirate of Ajman, comprising a luxury waterfront palace and a beachfront penthouse within Al Zorah City, near the anticipated Four Seasons Al Zorah Resort.

These record transactions reflect the rising momentum witnessed in the emirate’s luxury real estate market and the growing demand for the integrated coastal lifestyle offered by Al Zorah, combining exceptional location, low-density urban planning, design quality, and sustainable investment value.

The first transaction included the sale of an ultra-luxury five-bedroom beachfront palace within the Sea Glints Mansions project, valued at approximately AED30.8 million, setting a new record for residential properties in Ajman. The palace has a built-up area of 7,338 square feet and is situated on a 14,000 square foot plot, featuring high-end finishes including marble flooring, custom-designed woodwork, fully landscaped gardens with a private pool and jacuzzi, as well as kitchens and bathrooms equipped with international brands and advanced smart home systems.

The Sea Glints Mansions project comprises seven exclusive beachfront palaces and is located directly adjacent to the anticipated Four Seasons Al Zorah Resort. It recently won the award for Best Residential Development (2-9 Units) – Ajman at the Arabian Property Awards 2025–2026.

The company also announced the completion of the sale of a four-bedroom penthouse within the Sea Line Residences project, a luxury waterfront residential development in the tourist area of Al Zorah City, valued at AED9 million. The penthouse has an area of 4,612 square feet and offers spacious indoor and outdoor living spaces, high ceilings, and direct panoramic sea views with direct beach access. The project comprises only 99 residential units, scheduled for delivery in December 2026.

George Saad, Chief Executive Officer of Al Zorah Real Estate Development, stated,

“These exceptional sales reflect the growing confidence in Al Zorah’s vision, which places nature at the heart of urban planning and offers an integrated coastal living model that combines design quality and long-term value for residents and investors.”

Al Zorah City is located on an area extending to 5.4 million square meters of protected coastal landscape and is distinguished by an urban plan that respects environmental sustainability, comprising a natural mangrove reserve covering one million square meters, alongside integrated sports and recreational facilities, including Al Zorah Golf and Yacht Club, which features an 18-hole championship golf course designed by Nicklaus Design, a yacht marina, and an anticipated beach club.

This urban and environmental integration has contributed to attracting a diverse base of buyers and residents from multiple nationalities, thereby reinforcing Al Zorah’s position as one of the most prominent emerging residential and investment destinations in the UAE.

Dubai , January 8,2026:ubai Chambers said on Thursday it will hold the fifth international edition of the Dubai Business Forum in Shenzhen, China, on 14th May 2026, as it seeks to attract new Chinese investment and partnerships in support of Dubai’s Economic Agenda (D33).

The Dubai Business Forum – China aims to showcase the opportunities created by the D33 agenda and position Dubai as a launchpad for Chinese companies expanding across the Middle East, Asia and Africa, Dubai Chambers said.

The event’s location in Shenzhen places it at the heart of the Greater Bay Area, a global hub for technological innovation.

Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers, said the return to China reflects the organisation’s commitment to strengthening economic ties and building “tangible pathways for growth in the digital economy.

He said the forum is expected to catalyse new collaborations and joint ventures that support D33’s ambitions.

The event’s sessions will provide opportunities to exchange key insights on innovation, trade, the digital economy, and future industries.

The forum comes as part of Dubai Chambers’ ongoing efforts to expand its global network and reinforce Dubai’s position as a preferred destination for foreign direct investment. The strong and fast-growing presence of Chinese businesses in Dubai is evident, with more than 6,190 active Chinese members registered with the Dubai Chamber of Commerce by the end of Q3 2025.

This event will feature curated business-matching meetings, sector roundtables, and policy dialogues designed to strengthen long-term collaboration.

The previous Dubai Business Forum – China, held in Beijing in August 2024, attracted more than 800 business leaders and investors.

Dubai, January 8,2026 : Dubai Municipality has begun implementing a pilot phase of a smart camera system as part of the “Smart Waste Management” framework to improve public cleanliness monitoring and speed up responses to violations.

The system relies on artificial intelligence technologies and real-time data analysis to improve oversight and enforcement.

Dubai Municipality stated that the pilot phase includes the installation of smart cameras on a number of waste collection and transportation vehicles. The initiative seeks to monitor cleanliness levels on roads and in residential areas, as well as to identify locations of illegal waste dumping near waste containers, sidewalks and public squares.

Captured images are analysed instantly and displayed on interactive digital dashboards, allowing field teams to take swift action.

The system monitors a range of negative behaviours, most notably littering in public places, which carries a fine of up to AED500, in addition to the improper disposal of furniture and bulky waste, as well as other practices that harm the city’s appearance and lead to waste accumulation.

Engineer Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director-General of Dubai Municipality, affirmed that the project forms part of a strategic approach aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of monitoring systems, supporting data-driven decision-making and developing sustainable policies to improve the urban environment.

He noted that the outcomes of the pilot phase will be evaluated ahead of any expansion of the system’s implementation.

Engineer Adel Al Marzouqi, Executive Director of the Waste and Sewerage Agency, said the system helps document violations accurately and accelerate corrective measures, while protecting community privacy in line with Dubai’s smart city and digital transformation goals.

The project falls within Dubai Municipality’s efforts to support the Dubai Integrated Waste Management Strategy 2041, enhancing the sustainability of public cleanliness and quality of life, and reinforcing the emirate’s position as a leading global city in sustainability and innovation.

Dubai , January 8 , 2026 : Dubai has taken a major step forward in smart mobility with the official launch of Baidu Apollo Go’s Autonomous Vehicles Operations and Control Centre, the company’s first facility outside China. The centre was inaugurated at Dubai Science Park by His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), and Yunpeng Wang, Corporate Vice President of Baidu and President of Baidu’s Intelligent Driving Group.

Covering an area of 2,000 square metres, the state-of-the-art centre serves as a comprehensive hub for managing autonomous vehicle operations. It includes a command-and-control centre, simulation and training rooms, and an operations and maintenance facility. The centre will oversee vehicle deployment, charging, routine maintenance, software updates, inspections, and safety testing, while ensuring rapid response to operational commands.

The opening follows RTA’s issuance of Dubai’s first permit allowing fully autonomous vehicle trials on public roads without a safety driver, marking a significant regulatory milestone. Baidu Apollo Go is scheduled to begin commercial autonomous ride-hailing operations in the first quarter of 2026, with plans to gradually expand its fleet to 1,000 vehicles across the emirate.

The centre builds on a Memorandum of Understanding signed between RTA and Baidu Apollo Go in March 2025, aimed at enabling large-scale autonomous taxi operations. This was followed by the granting of the emirate’s first autonomous driving trial permit in July 2025 and the launch of operational trials involving 50 autonomous vehicles in August.

Al Tayer said the opening of the centre represents a strategic milestone that strengthens Dubai’s global leadership in smart mobility and the use of artificial intelligence in transport. He noted that Baidu’s decision to establish its first overseas operations centre in Dubai reflects international confidence in the emirate’s advanced regulatory environment and smart infrastructure.

He added that the partnership supports RTA’s vision to expand future mobility solutions, enhance road safety, reduce carbon emissions, and improve transport efficiency, in line with Dubai’s ambition to become a global hub for innovation and advanced technologies.

Yunpeng Wang said the launch of the first overseas Apollo Go Park, combined with the receipt of Dubai’s first driverless vehicle trial permit, marks a significant step in the company’s expansion in the UAE and demonstrates its long-term commitment to the region.

Apollo Go’s autonomous driving platform is supported by extensive global experience. The service has logged over 240 million kilometres of autonomous driving worldwide, including more than 140 million kilometres in fully driverless mode. Operating in 22 cities, Apollo Go records more than 250,000 rides per week, with cumulative trips exceeding 17 million as of October 2025.

The launch further reinforces Dubai’s position as a global testing ground for next-generation transport solutions and a leader in the adoption of autonomous and intelligent mobility technologies.