Year: 2026

A Step Change Towards Faster, More Flexible Mobility

Duabi , May 12, 2026 : Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has added 4 key areas to its Bus-On-Demand service: Al Qusais, Jumeirah Village Circle, Al Warqa’a and Dubai Investments Park. The expansion reflects RTA’s continued commitment to advancing an integrated smart public transport network that supports seamless and sustainable mobility.

The service delivered a remarkable performance in 2025, with ridership rising to 984,929 riders from 417,315 in 2024, an increase of 567,614 riders, representing a growth rate of around 136%. This rapid growth underlines customers’ confidence in the efficiency of the service and its growing role as a reliable option for daily mobility.

The latest addition brings Bus-On-Demand coverage to 17 areas across Dubai, served by a fleet of 49 buses, underscoring the pace of expansion and RTA’s responsiveness to population growth and rising demand for flexible mobility solutions.

Before this expansion, the service covered Al Barsha, Al Nahda, Dubai Silicon Oasis, Dubai Academic City, Al Rigga, Port Saeed, Business Bay, Downtown Dubai, Oud Maitha, Al Karama, Barsha Heights, Al Mankhool and Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).

The addition of four new areas forms part of RTA’s strategy to strengthen first and last-mile connectivity by offering flexible mobility options that link residential communities with public transport stations. It also aligns with Dubai Government’s directions to cement the emirate’s global leadership in seamless and sustainable mobility.

The service is built on an innovative operating model that enables bookings through the Dubai Bus-On-Demand smart app. Customers can easily select their pick-up and drop-off points and access the service within a short time.Bus-On-Demand operates through minibuses that respond to real-time demand, without being restricted to fixed routes. This helps reduce waiting times, enhance operational efficiency, and improve the customer journey.

The service reflects RTA’s commitment to adopting the latest digital solutions and advancing smart transformation in the transport sector. It also helps improve traffic flow, reduce reliance on private vehicles, and support integration with the public transport network, including Dubai Metro and public buses.

The service plays a pivotal role in supporting first and last-mile connectivity by facilitating access to business centres and public transport stations, encouraging the use of public transport, and enhancing mobility efficiency across the emirate.

The service is offered at a flexible and affordable fare of AED 5 per trip and AED 4 for each additional rider, with shared trips available, enhancing operational efficiency and lowering the cost of travel for users. RTA is offering launch-phase promotions, including free trips for a limited period, to encourage the public to experience the service.

The next phase will see a carefully planned expansion into new areas, alongside further development of the operating model and fare structure. This will ensure a balance between service quality and financial sustainability, while strengthening the service’s position as a core component of Dubai’s smart transport ecosystem.

Dubai , May 12 , 2026 : Indian economy that is aspired to exceed US$30 trillion by the country’s independence centenary in 2047, provides a huge economic opportunity for investors worldwide, and with the growing strategic relationship, the UAE is well-positioned to benefit from it, experts said at a conference organised by the Dubai Chapter of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI), attended by more than 500 professionals.

“We are living at a time of extraordinary global transformation. The world economy is being reshaped by climate challenges, technological innovation, energy transition, digital finance, and changing trade corridors. In this rapidly evolving landscape, the role of West Asia has become increasingly significant,” Dr Mohammed Saeed Al Kindi, former UAE Minister for Environment and Water, told the delegates. 

“The region is no longer viewed only as an energy hub, but as a major centre for global investment, trade connectivity, financial services, logistics, technology, and sustainable development.”

The conference, titled, Shifting Geo-Economics: Rewiring West Asian’s Economic Core, focused on the Gulf region’s changing geo-economic landscape, especially following the recent uncertainty. Council for International Economic Understanding (CIEU), a Knowledge Partner the ICAI, supported the event. However, the discussions dominated the UAE’s tolerance, resilience, the country’s leadership in reassuring the global community and investors, building trust by securing more investment, and its transformation towards growth.

CA Rishi Chawla, Chairman of the Dubai Chapter of the ICAI, said, “The UAE’s bold, dynamic, and visionary leadership continues to inspire immense confidence across the global business and investor community, positioning the nation as a symbol of stability, resilience, and forward-thinking growth. In today’s rapidly changing world, geo-economics and capital flows are no longer just economic concepts—they are powerful forces shaping the future of trade, finance, investment, and global influence.

“This is our fifth business conference in two months, and this reflects an environment that makes us feel safe at home and at work. Amid all these, investors are announcing record deals and investment. This is the UAE that we are all proud of.”

The world has shifted to a multi-polar global geo-economic environment, from a unipolar world since the break-up of the Soviet Union in 1991 – that has recreated the world order with regional alliances, according to Meenakshi Lekhi, former Indian Minister of State for External Affairs and Culture.

“From Non-Alignment, we also have moved to regional alignments as the global economic power centre is shifting towards the East and South. India with its ancient civilisation, culture and strong democratic credentials now represents the global South where regional alliances are gaining momentum,” Meenakshi Lekhi said.

“In the fragmented geo-economic environment, India has a lot to offer in terms of scientific, industrial and human capital. India believes in cooperative multi-polarity and this is where India is partnering with the UAE and GCC countries – home to a large Indian diaspora that are contributing to these economies.

“The UAE and India are two sisters who have navigated through multiple regional challenges. Both the countries are undergoing a tectonic shift in the global geo-economic environment where science, innovation, quantum computing, Artificial Intelligence, and technological disruption will determine who leads in this multi-polar world.”

The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) signed between the UAE and India has created new opportunities for both the countries where two-way trade is set to double from US$100 billion in 2024-25 financial year to the US$200 billion mark by 2032.

India’s economic growth could create a US$45 trillion opportunity for the UAE and its investors, according to Siddarth Balachandran, President of the Indian Business and Professional Council (IBPC).

“India is on a snowball growth trajectory with its economy growing from US$4 trillion to an aspirational US$30 trillion by 2047 when the country celebrates its centenary of independence. This aspirational target is realistic and will create a US$45 trillion economic opportunity for all stakeholders. When India grows to that level, who will benefit? Obviously, the investors who are betting on its growth – such as the UAE and other countries,” Siddarth Balachandran who is also a seasoned investor and Executive Chairman and CEO of Buimerc Corporation, said.

“India’s US$150 billion annual infrastructure gap provides a huge opportunity with 25 per cent annual return in US dollar terms. The UAE is one of the leading investors in India’s National Infrastructure Investment Fund (NIIF). Uncertainty is a certain thing in the current global environment, and both the UAE and India have factored this in their growth vision.”

Despite the regional uncertainty, Dubai’s real estate sector delivered a strong performance in the first quarter of 2026, with total transactions reaching Dh252 billion in the first quarter of 2026, marking a 31per cent year-on-year increase in value and a 6 per cent rise in volume, reflecting sustained momentum and investor confidence.

CA Ankur Agarwal, Chairman and Co-Founder of BNW Developments, whose company is currently developing projects worth Dh32 billion in the UAE, said, “The UAE growth story is no longer single engine. Last year, the country’s total non-oil trade reached Dh3.8 trillion last year when 32.34 millionpeople stayed in the hotels with hotel revenues reaching Dh49.21 billion. The UAE economy has been growing at more than 5.6 per cent – that can’t be affected with short-term problems.

“During the last two months, a number of property developers have launched new projects and investors are buying them. Our organisation is hiring salesmen – increasing from 350 to 1,000 by the end of this year – to manage growth. So, we have solid confidence in the UAE and these regional crises won’t deter investors who will continue to invest in the UAE.”

Amjad Taha, an Emirati expert in strategic affairs, said, “The UAE is a global leader in navigating through crises fast and transforming its economy from every challenges. What happened in recent weeks amid the crisis? Just last week, we witnessed 146,000 delegates attending an exhibition participated by 1,245 exhibitors in Abu Dhabi that saw 200 business deals signed including Dh180 billion cumulative off-take and Dh200 billion investment announced by Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC).

“We used to only export oil in the past. Now we are exporting industrial products, technology, and trust. Our investment in futuristic technology will see the country become the global capital of Artificial Intelligence. These long-term strategic vision won’t be affected by geo-economic challenges as the country’s leadership will shield us with protection,” Amjad Taha said.

“With this kind of leadership, investors will continue to invest in the UAE – as they see certainty in an uncertain environment that strengthens their trust and confidence. That’s why you see so much of investment coming in while property developers are announcing new projects while missiles are hurled towards the UAE.”

ICAI is the largest professional body of Chartered Accountants across the world with over 1,000,000+ students and around 450,000+ members. ICAI has a wide network with five Regional Councils, 176 Branches, 54 Overseas Chapters, and 31 representative offices across the globe. And among 54 overseas chapters, ICAI Dubai Chapter is the largest and most vibrant chapter of ICAI. Of the 8,000 Indian Chartered Accountants active in the UAE‘s private sector, 1,400+ are currently leading businesses in senior positions.

Dubai, May 11, 2026: A new generation of investors is reshaping financial markets, with participation accelerating across both developed and emerging economies. In the UAE and wider MENA region, this shift is particularly pronounced, driven by a digitally native population redefining how wealth creation begins.

Young investors are entering the markets with a mindset that differs significantly from previous generations. Rather than waiting to reach peak earning years, many are starting early and approaching investing as a long-term discipline. This behavioural shift is evident globally, with 82% of Gen Z investors in the US beginning their investment journey before the age of 21, signalling a move towards consistency and habit-driven investing over short-term gains.

This early participation is underpinned by a strong foundation of financial awareness. Research from the World Economic Forum indicates that 86% of Gen Z have learned about investing by the time they enter the workforce, reflecting how financial literacy is becoming embedded earlier and shaping more confident, informed financial decision-making across generations.

In the UAE, this generational transformation is already visible at scale. More than 60% of UAE consumers actively use digital financial platforms, reflecting a high level of engagement and financial awareness. Learning pathways have evolved, with 50% of Gen Z relying on social media as a primary source for investment knowledge, reinforcing the role of digital ecosystems in shaping investor behaviour.

Tajinder Virk, Co-Founder and CEO, Finvasia Group and Dealing, said: “Young investors today are entering the markets earlier, more informed, and with a clearer sense of purpose than any generation before them. What we are seeing across the UAE and globally is a shift from reactive investing to intentional wealth-building, where consistency, accessibility, and values matter as much as returns.”

This evolution is closely tied to the rapid adoption of digital platforms. Across the MENA region, digital investment platform adoption is growing at 20–25%, while in the UAE, 70–75% of investors now prefer mobile-first, digital investment solutions, underscoring the demand for seamless, technology-led experiences.

Market fundamentals further reinforce this momentum. The UAE’s fintech ecosystem is projected to exceed $3 billion by 2026, supported by strong economic fundamentals, including a GDP per capita of over $47,000, one of the highest in the region. This combination of high disposable income and digital readiness is enabling broader participation in financial markets.

The investor ambition is becoming increasingly global. While 85% of UAE retail investors continue to invest in local stocks, appetite for international diversification is accelerating, particularly towards US equities and technology-led sectors. Regional investment reports show multi-asset investing across MENA has risen sharply, with diversified portfolios accounting for 16.4% of investment activity by 2025, reflecting growing demand for global exposure beyond domestic markets. Wealth managers across the GCC are also reporting rising allocations towards international equities, especially US markets, as investors seek broader sector access, AI-driven growth opportunities, and long-term portfolio resilience.

However, despite strong intent, a gap remains between aspiration and action. Investors across the GCC are globally aware and financially capable, yet participation in global markets is often constrained by factors such as perceived platform complexity, limited financial knowledge, and a tendency towards short-term trading behaviour, which can heighten the fear of financial loss.

“At Dealing, we are building for this new investor profile. This generation does not want complexity or gatekeeping; they want simplicity, transparency, and the ability to start small while thinking big. Whether it is a young professional in Dubai or a first-time investor anywhere in the world, the expectation is the same: a platform that speaks their language and supports their long-term financial journey. This is not just a trend, it is a structural shift that will define the future of global investing,” said Virk.

Platforms like Dealing simplify access to global markets, enabling investors through a unified platform that offers access to global markets, a simplified and user-centric experience, institutional-grade infrastructure, multi-asset investment capabilities, and an education-led ecosystem with transparent pricing.

The convergence of early investing habits, digital adoption, and global ambition is set to redefine capital markets. The UAE, with its progressive ecosystem and tech-forward population, is emerging as a key hub in this transformation, as platforms like Dealing enable the next generation to build wealth with confidence, clarity, and control.

Accessing Dealing: Investors can start building their globally diversified portfolios by creating an account at Dealing.com

Sharjah , May 12, 2026 : Sharjah’s real estate sector recorded transactions worth AED3.5 billion in April 2026, through 15,669 transactions across the emirate, according to data issued by the Sharjah Real Estate Registration Department.

The total traded area in sales transactions reached approximately 13 million square feet, reflecting the stability of Sharjah’s real estate market.

The real estate sector in Sharjah is witnessing a state of stability driven by a range of integrated factors that have strengthened the emirate’s appeal as an investment destination.

Flexible government policies and supportive legislation have contributed to providing a stable regulatory environment that encourages long-term investment. In addition, major development projects and well-planned urban expansion have played a key role in sustaining market activity and attracting both local and foreign capital.

According to the data, title deed transactions recorded 8,710 transactions, representing 55.6 percent of total transactions, followed by ownership certificate transactions with 5,291 transactions (33.8 percent).

Initial sales contract transactions totalled 936 transactions (6 percent), while mortgage transactions recorded 443 transactions (2.8 percent with a value of AED651 million). Valuation transactions were 289, representing 1.8 percent of total transactions.

Sales transactions were carried out across 115 areas in Sharjah, covering residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural properties. A total of 1,537 land transactions were recorded, while 790 transactions involved subdivided units, and 348 transactions involved built-in land.

The highest real estate transaction recorded during April was in “Industrial Area 4,” involving a built-in land worth AED30 million. Meanwhile, “Al Majaz 1” recorded the highest mortgage transaction involving a land with a value of AED153 million.

The report indicated that the total number of sales transactions in Sharjah reached 2,675.

In detail, the total number of sales transactions in Sharjah City reached 2,004 transactions. “Muwaileh Commercial” ranked the highest with 447 transactions, followed by “Mezairah” with 238 transactions, then “Rodhat Al Sidr” with 136 transactions, and “Al Sehma” with 131 transactions.

In terms of trading value, “Muwaileh Commercial” ranked first with AED448.5 million, followed by “Al Menhaz” with AED213 million, “Al Sajaa Industrial” with AED205.7 million, and “Tilal” with AED191.9 million.

In the Central Region, 613 sales transactions were recorded, most of which were in “Al Belaida” with 366 transactions, which also recorded the highest trading value at AED176.4 million.

In the Eastern Region (Khorfakkan, Kalba, and Dibba Al Hisn), a total of 58 sales transactions were recorded. Al Mudeife was the highest in terms of the number of transactions and trading value with 20 transactions and AED29.9 million in trading value.

Dubai, May 12, 2026: – Dubai Investments reported profit before tax of AED 185.06
million for the three-month period ended March 31, 2026, compared to AED 184.89 million
during the same period last year. Profit after tax stood at AED 168.97 million, up from AED
167.18 million in the corresponding period last year.
Dubai Investments delivered a stable performance in the first quarter of 2026, reflecting the
resilience of its diversified portfolio and the strength of its core operating segments. The
Group’s performance was supported by consistent recurring income from its groundrent
infrastructure platform and other income-generating assets, alongside the steady
contribution of its core business verticals. The property segment which includes the ground-
rent infrastructure platform remained a key driver, underpinned by stable occupancy levels
and recurring income streams, while the Group’s manufacturing and contracting businesses
continued to perform steadily.
As of March 31, 2026, total assets grew to AED 23.43 billion, compared to AED 23.28 billion
as at 31 December 2025, while total equity increased to AED 15.39 billion, compared to AED
15.22 billion as at 31 December 2025, reflecting the continued strength of the Group’s asset
base and its focus on long-term value creation.
Khalid Bin Kalban, Vice Chairman and CEO of Dubai Investments, commented, “The
Group’s performance in the first quarter reflects the underlying strength and balance of its
business model, which continues to support consistent outcomes despite varying market
conditions. Dubai Investments has maintained a disciplined approach to asset allocation,
with a strong focus on income visibility and operational continuity across its core sectors.
This approach enables the Group to absorb market fluctuations while sustaining
performance, supported by a well-established base of recurring revenues and a diversified
mix of assets that continues to deliver across cycles.’’
Outlook
Building on its performance in the first quarter, Dubai Investments remains focused on
advancing growth across its core sectors, supported by disciplined execution and a
diversified portfolio of businesses. In the real estate sector, the Group continues to progress
its developments in line with planned execution schedules. Construction is advancing across
key projects, including Danah Bay on Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah, Violet Tower in
Jumeirah Village Circle and Asayel Avenue at Mirdif Hills, with handover activities underway
across completed components and further deliveries expected in line with planned timelines.
Beyond real estate, Dubai Investments continues to strengthen its portfolio across income-
generating assets, including healthcare, education and financial investments, aligned with its
focus on resilient, demand-driven sectors. Its manufacturing platform also remains an
integral contributor, supporting construction and infrastructure activity across key markets.
Supported by the resilience of the UAE economy and its strong financial position, Dubai
Investments remains well-positioned to navigate evolving market conditions while
maintaining its focus on sustainable growth and long-term value creation.

Dubai, May 09, 2026 : Mark & Save, one of the GCC’s fastest-growing value hyperstore chains, is set to open its 23rd
hyperstore in the region and 10th store in the UAE on Monday, May 11, 2026, in Dubai’s Muhaisnah.
The new opening forms part of Mark & Save’s ongoing regional expansion strategy, with six additional
hyperstores planned across the GCC over the next six months. The milestone reflects the brand’s
continued confidence in the UAE economy and its commitment to delivering quality, affordability, and
convenience to value-conscious shoppers across the region.
Spanning more than 150,000 square feet, the multi-level Muhaisnah hyperstore has been designed to
offer customers a spacious, convenient, and enhanced shopping experience. The store will serve the
growing nearby community and surrounding areas, providing customers with greater value across daily
essentials, including fresh fruits and vegetables, fish, meat, poultry, fast-moving consumer goods,
household essentials, electronics, bakery, hot food, fashion, and more.
The new hyperstore will feature more than 100,000 Stock Keeping Units (SKUs), catering to diverse
customer needs across multiple categories. To support its operations, the store has recruited
approximately 400+ professionals, further contributing to local employment and the retail sector.
“The expansion of Mark & Save demonstrates our confidence in the UAE economy and reinforces our
long-term commitment to the region. Our goal is to deliver greater value for every dirham spent by our
customers,” Debangshu Adhikari, Senior Vice President, Mark & Save, said.
“Mark & Save has shown that retailers can deliver a world-class shopping environment and customer
experience while remaining affordable. We offer customers an elevated retail experience without
compromising on value. Our customers are able to purchase more by spending the same amount
compared to many other retailers.”
Mark & Save’s continued growth is driven by its customer-centric approach, value-led pricing, and focus
on convenience. By listening closely to customers and responding to their evolving needs, the brand has
built a strong proposition that combines affordability with quality and an enjoyable shopping experience.
“Our customer-centric approach, combining value-driven pricing with an unmatched shopping experience,
continues to gain popularity among a growing number of consumers. Customers save more when they
shop at Mark & Save, and this has helped us increase customer acquisition while strengthening long-
term loyalty,” Adhikari added.

With more than 5,500 employees, Mark & Save continues to create memorable shopping experiences
while generating career opportunities across the region. Launched in 2022 as a value retail concept by
Western International Group, Mark & Save offers quality products at affordable prices under the promise
of “Affordable Luxury.”
“The Muhaisnah store marks another important milestone in Mark & Save’s growth journey. It reinforces
our commitment to delivering value, variety and convenience to our customers while contributing to the
local community and economy,” said Mohammed Fasil, Head of Operations at Mark & Save.
“To celebrate the grand opening, customers can look forward to exciting promotions, including special
discounts across key categories, Half Pay Back offers on fashion, and exclusive launch deals on fresh
food and grocery items and many more categories.
“Opening 23 stores is a significant achievement, particularly in today’s highly competitive retail
environment. This success is the result of strong teamwork, visionary leadership, meticulous planning,
and flawless execution,” Mohammed Fasil added.
Mark & Save is part of Western International Group, which operates one of the largest retail networks
across the GCC. The name “Mark” represents a benchmark for quality and savings, while “Save” reflects
the brand’s commitment to helping customers save every time they shop.
The brand currently operates large-format value retail stores across the UAE, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, and
the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with several new stores under construction or in the final stages of site
selection across the GCC. Mark & Save has ambitious plans to expand its footprint globally, with a long-
term target of opening 100 by 2030.

Dubai , May 9 , 2026 : Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has opened a new 500-
metre bridge under the World Trade Centre Roundabout Development
Project, as part of its ongoing efforts to advance road infrastructure and
enhance the efficiency of Dubai’s road network.
The bridge is aimed to facilitate outbound traffic from Al Bada’ towards
2nd December Street, with onward access to Sheikh Rashid Road and
Al Mustaqbal Street. It will help accommodate growing traffic volumes in
the area, in line with the vision of the wise leadership to make Dubai the
best city to live in and move around.
This step further reflects RTA’s commitment to developing infrastructure
and enhancing the efficiency of Dubai’s road network to meet the
demands of population growth and urban expansion across the emirate,
particularly in the Trade Centre area. The area holds strategic
importance due to its vital location near Sheikh Zayed Road, one of
Dubai’s main traffic corridors. The project improves connectivity with this
key arterial route, distributes traffic more efficiently, and reduces
congestion in surrounding areas.
Extending approximately 500 metres, the new bridge adds to three
bridges already opened under the World Trade Centre Roundabout
Development Project. This single-lane bridge has a capacity of up to
1,200 vehicles per hour. It reduces journey time from 8 minutes to 2
minutes, improving traffic flow for motorists travelling from Al Bada’
towards Sheikh Rashid and Al Mustaqbal Streets.
The project also involves converting the signalised intersection on 2nd
December Street, serving traffic towards Sheikh Rashid and Al
Mustaqbal Streets, into a free-flow intersection. This will further improve

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traffic movement and enhance mobility efficiency across the surrounding
area.
The World Trade Centre Roundabout Development Project includes the
construction of six bridges with a total length of 5,000 metres, enabling
free-flow traffic movement in multiple directions. RTA previously opened
a bridge linking Sheikh Zayed Road with Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Street
in February 2026. It also opened two bridges in December 2025, serving
traffic from 2nd December Street towards Sheikh Rashid Road and Al
Majlis Street, leading to Al Mustaqbal Street. The two bridges have a
combined length of 2,000 metres and an estimated capacity of around
6,000 vehicles per hour.
The project also includes the construction of two bridges with two lanes
in each direction, extending from Al Majlis Street and Sheikh Rashid
Road towards 2nd December Street, to link Al Mustaqbal Street with 2nd
December Street. The two bridges have a combined length of 2,000
metres and an estimated capacity of around 6,000 vehicles per hour.
The project also covers converting the existing World Trade Centre
Roundabout into a signalised at-grade intersection.

Abudhabi , May 7, 2026 : Abu Dhabi Airports has welcomed Thailand-based all-cargo carrier K-Mile Air to Zayed International Airport
(AUH) following the commencement of freighter operations from 4 May. The airline will operate five weekly services using a Boeing 767
freighter to Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) and Mae Fah Luang Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI), opening the first direct air cargo
links between Abu Dhabi and northern Thailand and further expanding AUH’s global freighter footprint to 36 destinations.
K-Mile Air’s services arrived against a backdrop of exceptional freight growth at AUH. Data from the most recent 7-day reporting period (27
April-3 May) shows cargo traffic is up from 1,878 tonnes/day at the beginning of the year to 2,216 tonnes/day, an overall increase of 18%. The
numbers result from strong demand for freighter cargo which is up 119% from baseline levels of 389 tonnes/day to 851 tonnes/day currently.
Freighter cargo now accounts for 38% of total throughput, up 21% from baseline levels, and is accompanied by a 42% increase in daily
freighter movements, demonstrating the agility and strategic readiness of Abu Dhabi’s aviation infrastructure.
Freighter volumes arriving at AUH averaged 612 tonnes per day, growing roughly 91% over the period; volumes departing Abu Dhabi recorded
239 tonnes, surging 251% over the same period. Wide-body freighter operations have also grown by approximately 55%, reaching 17
movements daily as the airport scales up to accommodate larger long-haul shipments.
Ahmed Juma Al Shamisi, CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports, said: “Our teams are playing a pivotal role in sustaining the flow of goods through
Abu Dhabi and expanding the global reach of Zayed International Airport (AUH) as well as Al Ain International Airport (AAN), which is rapidly
developing into an important regional logistics hub. Despite a shifting global landscape, our freighter cargo volumes have more than doubled,
reflecting operational readiness and agility in rapidly scaling up to meet demand and demonstrating the strength of our hubs as reliable and
expanding destinations for international trade, even during a period of volatility.”
In addition to volume growth, Abu Dhabi Airports continues to expand its global footprint as its freighter network grows to serve 36 unique
destinations. This expansion of the network, coupled with the arrival of new operators, reinforces Abu Dhabi’s status as a preferred destination
for global logistics integrators. By successfully mitigating external shifts through increased freighter capacity and wide-body recovery, Abu
Dhabi Airports continues to deliver on its commitment to supporting the UAE’s economic diversification and its position as a leading global
logistics hub.
The surge in dedicated freighter activity is further underlined by full-quarter data: total cargo tonnage across the Abu Dhabi Airports network
grew 4.2% year-on-year in Q1 2026, reaching 171,794 tonnes, with dedicated freighter cargo at AUH rising 11.4% to 58,128 tonnes over the
same period. Al Ain International Airport (AAN) recorded even stronger cargo momentum, with tonnage climbing 45.9% year-on-year, a
reflection of the airport’s growing importance as a logistics node. The network also welcomed a net addition of eight airlines in Q1 2026,
bringing the total to 36 carriers serving 127 destinations from Abu Dhabi.

Dubai , May 7 ,2026 : Global Village Dubai has announced a limited-time Family Special Offer aimed at encouraging more families to experience the destination’s multicultural attractions, entertainment, and shopping experiences together.

Under the promotion, visitors can purchase four tickets for the price of one, while additional tickets will be available at a discounted rate of AED 7.5 each.

The offer is designed to make family visits more accessible as the destination continues to attract residents and tourists seeking entertainment, dining, and cultural experiences in Dubai.

Known for its international pavilions, live performances, global cuisine, and family-friendly attractions, Global Village Dubai remains one of the UAE’s most popular seasonal entertainment destinations.

According to the announcement, the special promotion will be available for a limited period and can only be redeemed at Global Village ticket counters from Sunday to Thursday.

Organizers say the initiative aims to give families an opportunity to enjoy a complete entertainment experience at greater value while strengthening the destination’s appeal as a hub for community and cultural engagement.

Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to take advantage of the promotion before the offer period concludes.

Dubai , May 7,2026 : Danube Home, one of the region’s leading home
improvement and furnishing retail brands, has officially opened its new 35,000 sq. ft.
phygital showroom at Festival Plaza, Jebel Ali, bringing together physical retail,
digital innovation, AI-powered assistance, and personalized design services under
one roof.
The showroom was inaugurated by Anis Sajan, Vice Chairman of Danube Group
alongside Adel Sajan, Managing Director of Danube Groups, in the presence of
senior leadership, partners, customers, and members of the community.
Located on the first floor of Festival Plaza, the new showroom has been designed as
a future-ready destination for customers looking to furnish, upgrade, and personalize
their spaces with greater ease and confidence. The showroom features a wide
selection of furniture, décor, kitchen appliances, bathroom fixtures, flooring solutions,
wall panels, and customization services, offering a more curated and convenient
shopping experience.
A key highlight of the showroom is Yara, Danube Home’s in-house AI-powered
retail assistant, designed to help customers discover products, make informed
decisions, and visualize how selected pieces would look in their homes in real time.
Supported by integrated digital screens and smart in-store touchpoints, Yara enables
customers to browse, compare, plan, and personalize their shopping journey at their
own pace, with expert support available in-store.
The showroom also introduces PureSpace, a dedicated customization and
design hub offering complete end-to-end personalized interior solutions. Through
PureSpace, customers can customize a wide range of solutions across kitchens,
wardrobes, living spaces, flooring, and more, making the design process more
accessible, efficient, and seamless from concept to completion.
Commenting on the launch, Sayed Habib, Director of Danube Home, said, “Today’s
customer wants more than just furniture. They want convenience, personalization,
and confidence in their buying journey. With our new phygital showroom, we have
reimagined the home shopping experience to make it more curated, immersive, and
efficient. Customers can now explore ideas in-store, interact with smart tools,
personalize designs in real time, and move seamlessly from concept to completion.”
The launch reflects Danube Group’s continued confidence in the UAE market and its
long-term growth potential, supported by strategic investments in customer
experience, technology, and design-led retail.

Anis Sajan Vice Chairman of Danube Group, said, “At Danube, we see every market
cycle as an opportunity to move forward with greater conviction. The Festival Plaza
showroom is a testament to that belief. It has been built to stay relevant, agile, and
customer-first, while offering people a smarter and more complete way to create their
homes.”
Adel Sajan, Group Managing Director of Danube Group, added, “Our focus remains
on investing in growth, people, and experiences that truly matter. With the launch of
our Festival Plaza showroom, we have embraced the integration of physical retail
and digital innovation to create a more connected customer journey.”
The addition of Danube Home further strengthens Festival Plaza’s position as a
community-focused destination for home, lifestyle, and everyday convenience.
Commenting on the opening, Hayssam Hajjar, Executive Director at Al-Futtaim Real
Estate, said, “Festival Plaza has always been a community-driven destination that
brings together home, lifestyle, and everyday convenience under one roof. We are
glad to strengthen our home offering by adding Danube Home, which introduces an
innovative, technology-led retail concept aligned with the evolving needs of our
customers.”
To mark the opening, customers can enjoy exclusive introductory offers across
selected categories for a limited time.