Year: 2026

Dubai ,May 7, 2026 : At a time when global investment markets are facing uncertainty and capital flows are becoming increasingly cautious, four prominent UAE business leaders are stepping forward with a strong vote of confidence in the region’s entrepreneurial future.

Falcons of Majlis, the UAE’s first trust-led startup investment platform produced by NKN Media and mentored by Bollywood actor and entrepreneur Suneil Shetty, has officially announced its four principal investors — influential figures committed to strengthening the UAE’s rapidly evolving startup ecosystem.

With more than 5,600 startups currently operating across the UAE, the country continues to reinforce its reputation as a global innovation hub despite ongoing geopolitical and economic shifts. Industry observers note that the UAE’s combination of strategic growth, investor confidence, and long-term vision has positioned it as one of the world’s most attractive destinations for entrepreneurship and innovation.

According to the platform, Falcons of Majlis is designed not only to reflect this momentum, but to actively accelerate it by connecting high-potential founders with experienced investors, mentors, and strategic guidance.

“This is not the UAE reacting to global uncertainty,” the platform stated. “This is the UAE leading through it.”

Leading Investors Join the Initiative

Maqsood Mohammed

Founder and Chairman, AFM Holding

A self-made entrepreneur with interests spanning artificial intelligence, energy, e-commerce, and media, Maqsood Mohammed says his investment philosophy is rooted in giving emerging founders the opportunities he once sought himself.

“I started with nothing and built everything through resilience and the right people. The UAE gave me that stage. Falcons of Majlis gives today’s founders what no one gave me: the open door. ‘Never give up’ isn’t a slogan. It’s how this country was built.”

Dhiraj Kantilal Jain

Founder and Chairman, 1XL Holdings

Known for building and scaling multiple ventures, Dr. Jain brings a systems-oriented approach to startup development and enterprise growth.

“Build with intent, not for attention. The UAE doesn’t celebrate noise; it rewards foundations. Falcons of Majlis is the first platform I’ve seen that filters for exactly that.”

Rakesh Mirchandani

Co-Founder and CEO, RNR International Real Estate
Co-Founder and Managing Partner, RRS International Development

With extensive experience in global real estate and investor relations, Mirchandani is expected to play a key role in connecting startups with international capital and expansion opportunities beyond the UAE.

Sanjay Dhawan

Founder and CEO, Habitat Real Estate
Co-Founder and Managing Partner, RRS International Development

Bringing more than three decades of cross-market experience, Dhawan emphasized the UAE’s long-standing ability to transform uncertainty into opportunity.

“Dubai doesn’t wait for clarity; it creates it. This city has always turned uncertainty into advantage, and the founders coming through Falcons of Majlis are the next proof of that.”

Mirchandani and Dhawan also shared a joint statement reaffirming their belief in the UAE’s entrepreneurial environment:

“We strongly believe the UAE is a land of opportunity where dreams transform into reality, inspired by visionary leadership that continues to shape its growth.”

Suneil Shetty Takes on Mentor Role

At the center of the initiative is Suneil Shetty, who serves as mentor and guiding force behind the platform’s founder selection process.

Organizers describe his role as one focused on identifying founders with “depth, clarity, and conviction” — entrepreneurs who are prepared not only to launch businesses, but to build sustainable and scalable enterprises.

Rather than emphasizing celebrity appeal, Falcons of Majlis says the platform is built around trust, readiness, and long-term value creation for the UAE’s next generation of startups.

Dubai ,May 7, 2026 : Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced the
launch of a field campaign to verify the readiness of air-conditioned
bus shelters and passenger waiting facilities for summer 2026. The
network comprises 895 shelters across 621 locations throughout
Dubai. RTA renews its commitment to ensuring the efficiency and
continuity of all systems of air-conditioned bus shelters and providing
the community with the highest standards of service.
Abdulrahman Al Janahi, Director of Buildings & Facilities, Corporate
Administrative Support Services Sector, RTA, said: “RTA is
committed to ensuring the readiness of all service facilities used by
the public and linked to public transport. The field campaign included
inspections and proactive maintenance to verify the readiness of air-
conditioned bus shelters ahead of summer 2026.”
Al Janahi added: “RTA conducts regular field visits to bus shelters in
line with its operational plan. Inspectors verify their readiness around
the clock and take immediate corrective action whenever technical
faults are detected. The campaign also included improvement
measures aimed at enhancing the efficiency of air-conditioned bus
shelter services and strengthening their operational readiness to
receive users.”
RTA has also launched social media awareness campaigns and
installed awareness posters highlighting the role of users in
preserving RTA’s assets and maintaining their cleanliness. It has
also provided approved communication channels for reporting any
observations or suggestions related to air-conditioned bus shelters,
including the Madinati service on RTA’s app. These reports are
handled by specialised teams to ensure customer happiness and
satisfaction.

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The shelters are environmentally friendly and feature a streamlined
design that helps them withstand heat and wind. They also offer
large advertising spaces and are among the leading urban models
that support sustainability. The shelters comply with Dubai Universal
Design Code requirements for People of Determination, with
dedicated wheelchair spaces and information display screens
showing Dubai’s bus network.

Dubai , May 5,2026 : The UAE’s e-commerce sector has recorded a sharp 20 percent surge since February 2026, driven by increased reliance on home deliveries and a growing preference for digital shopping.

Industry leaders, including Blue Ocean Global Group, have played a key role in ensuring uninterrupted supply chains and product availability during this period of heightened demand.

Strong Growth Across Categories

According to data from Redseer Consulting, several consumer segments have witnessed notable growth. Food and beverage delivery rose by 18 percent, followed by beauty and personal care at 15 percent, fashion at 14 percent, and long-shelf grocery items at 11 percent.

The surge is largely attributed to lifestyle changes, with many consumers continuing work-from-home and study-from-home arrangements, resulting in reduced physical retail traffic and increased online ordering.

Market Outlook Remains Robust

The UAE’s e-commerce market continues to demonstrate strong long-term growth potential. A report by Research and Markets estimates the sector grew 12.9 percent annually to reach $34.63 billion in 2025.

Further projections suggest the market will expand from $30.67 billion in 2024 to approximately $51.14 billion by 2029, maintaining a steady upward trajectory.

Additionally, data from Statista indicates that the number of digital commerce users in the UAE is expected to reach around 7.82 million by the end of 2026, supported by high internet penetration and widespread smartphone usage.

Shift Toward Cashless and Mobile Commerce

The UAE’s ambition to become 75 percent cashless by 2026 is accelerating online payment adoption. More than one-third of consumers now shop via smartphones weekly, with mobile retail sales projected to reach $4.6 billion, according to Dubai Chamber of Commerce.

Industry Leaders Highlight Supply Chain Resilience

Shahzad Ahmed, Chairman of Blue Ocean Global Group, emphasized the resilience of the UAE’s digital ecosystem.

“The rapid growth in e-commerce reflects the strength and preparedness of the entire ecosystem—from distributors and importers to delivery personnel who ensured timely service during challenging times,” he said.

Ahmed also acknowledged the efforts of delivery workers, noting their critical role in maintaining essential services while many residents stayed home.

Omnichannel Retail and Partnerships Drive Growth

Rahul Chandra, General Manager at Stanley Black & Decker, highlighted the shift toward omnichannel retail. He noted that partnerships with platforms such as Amazon and Noon are helping brands meet evolving consumer expectations through better demand forecasting and supply chain efficiency.

Similarly, Ankit Soni of Godrej Group pointed to a surge in online demand, crediting strong inventory planning and strategic distribution partnerships for maintaining seamless operations.

Expanding Market Opportunities

Beyond core retail, adjacent sectors are also growing. The UAE domestic appliance market, valued at approximately $1.79 billion in 2025, is expected to reach $2.34 billion by 2031, according to Mordor Intelligence, driven by demand for smart and energy-efficient products.

A Digitally Driven Future

With over 96 percent internet penetration and nearly half the population actively engaged in online shopping, the UAE is rapidly cementing its position as one of the most advanced digital economies in the Middle East.

As companies like Blue Ocean Global Group continue to strengthen logistics, analytics, and distribution capabilities, the country’s e-commerce ecosystem is poised for sustained expansion in the years ahead

Dubai , May 5, 2026 : Anime fans around the world are in for a major treat as Crunchyroll unveils its biggest-ever Ani-May, a month-long global celebration dedicated to all things anime. Spanning digital platforms, gaming, retail, and live experiences, the initiative invites fans everywhere to immerse themselves in anime throughout May.

The celebration kicks off early on April 30 with the exclusive streaming debut of Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc on Crunchyroll. On the same day, fans can also look forward to the theatrical release of That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime: Tears of the Azure Sea, setting the stage for a packed month of anime entertainment.

A Global Anime Experience

Ani-May goes beyond streaming, offering a wide range of activities designed to bring fans together. From global YouTube watch parties and creator-led streams to social media events on platforms like TikTok, the celebration ensures anime is accessible “wherever you are.”

The campaign will feature popular franchises such as Jujutsu Kaisen, My Hero Academia, Black Clover, Solo Leveling, and Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End, offering both longtime fans and newcomers plenty to explore.

Exclusive Deals and Gaming Rewards

Crunchyroll is also rolling out limited-time discounts on its Fan and Mega Fan memberships, which include access to its Game Vault. Subscribers can unlock exclusive in-game rewards in Forza Horizon 6, launching May 19, with early access available from May 15 for Premium Edition players. As part of a first-ever partnership with the franchise, members will receive a special car voucher to enhance their in-game experience.

Celebrity Ambassadors Join the Celebration

Ani-May introduces a new lineup of ambassadors, including REI AMI, Big Sean, and Noah Lyles. These figures will bring anime culture to life through cosplay, curated playlists, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content.

Community and Cultural Impact

According to Crunchyroll COO Gita Rebbapragada, Ani-May represents a deeper connection between anime and its global audience. “It’s a moment to come together, revisit old favorites, discover something new, and engage with anime in meaningful ways,” she said.

Scott Donaton, Crunchyroll’s SVP of Global Brand and Community, emphasized the growing cultural influence of anime, noting that global partnerships are helping create shared experiences that unite fans worldwide.

A Month to Live Anime

With activities ranging from livestreams and social campaigns to real-world events and exclusive content, Ani-May aims to transform May into a worldwide anime festival. Fans can explore all activities through the Ani-May Central hub and participate in local activations across regions including Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

As anime continues to grow as a global cultural force, Ani-May stands as one of the most ambitious efforts yet to celebrate the medium — not just as entertainment, but as a lifestyle embraced by millions.

Sharjah: April 24, 2026: Future Gate Indian School, Sharjah has officially announced the launch of its operations during a press conference, marking the beginning of a new educational initiative in the emirate. The institution aims to provide a future-focused learning model designed to meet the evolving needs of students.

The school has been established by a group of dedicated educators with a vision centered on commitment and the future of the next generation. In a departure from conventional management structures, the school is managed directly by teachers, who also handle administrative responsibilities. Officials stated that this approach enables the delivery of high-quality education at a more affordable cost.

The campus is designed to incorporate modern, technology-driven learning methods. By integrating Artificial Intelligence into the academic process, the school aims to enhance students’ analytical abilities and creative thinking. Alongside academic excellence, equal emphasis is placed on sports, arts, and extracurricular activities as part of a holistic education model.

With a limited student intake, the school ensures individualized attention, allowing educators to better understand each student’s abilities and personality. This approach is expected to strengthen teacher-student relationships and improve learning outcomes.

The campus offers a spacious and dynamic learning environment focused on the overall development of students. Facilities include modern classrooms, advanced technological systems, safety measures, and student-friendly infrastructure, all designed to make learning more engaging and effective.

The leadership team includes Managing Director Nujum N Rawther, Principal Muhammed Ameen, Admin Director Ferraj Shahul Hameed, and Academic Director Dr. Muhammed Shan.

Officials also highlighted several initiatives aimed at bringing innovation and quality to the education sector in Sharjah. Future Gate Indian School, Sharjah is expected to offer a new and enriching learning experience for students and parents in the region.

The press conference was attended by Managing Director Nujum N Rawther, Principal Muhammed Ameen, Admin Director Ferraj Shahul Hameed, and HR Manager Thajir Aliyaru Kunj.

Dubai, April 23, 2026 : Construction has officially commenced on Casagrand HERMINA at Dubai Islands, marking a major milestone for Casagrand as it advances its first residential project in the UAE. The move signals a clear transition from planning to on-site execution, underpinned by strong and sustained investor demand.

Luthfullah K, Director for Dubai at Casagrand, described the development as a defining moment for the company’s regional ambitions. “The commencement of construction at Casagrand HERMINA is a defining milestone for us in Dubai. It marks the moment where intent becomes reality, with visible progress now taking shape on the ground,” he said.

He added that investor confidence has played a central role in driving momentum, noting a rise in bulk acquisitions and repeat participation. “We are seeing clear conviction in both the asset and the market, with decisions being driven by quality, location, and developer credibility.”

Although Casagrand HERMINA represents the developer’s debut in Dubai, the company brings over two decades of experience, having delivered more than 160 projects across India. Its expansion into the UAE reflects a continuation of its focus on timely delivery, disciplined execution, and people-centric design.

The project has attracted a diverse investor base, including buyers from the GCC and international markets such as the United States, Canada, Europe, and Russia. High-net-worth individuals and seasoned investors are increasingly engaging in long-term portfolio strategies, with a notable rise in multi-unit purchases.

Located within one of Dubai’s fastest-growing waterfront districts, Dubai Islands is emerging as a key real estate corridor, supported by infrastructure investments, enhanced connectivity, and growing demand for coastal living environments.

Casagrand HERMINA is designed as a lifestyle-focused residential community, featuring landscaped outdoor areas, swimming pools, spa and wellness zones, a sky cinema, meditation spaces, and family-oriented amenities. Fully furnished units and carefully planned interiors aim to enhance everyday living standards.

To further support investor engagement, Casagrand is offering incentives such as a 4% Dubai Land Department fee waiver, flexible payment plans, and benefits for bulk and upfront purchases—initiatives that have been particularly well received by experienced investors.

The development forms part of Casagrand’s broader UAE strategy, which includes a pipeline exceeding 6 million square feet of residential and mixed-use projects over the next three years.

Casagrand HERMINA is scheduled for completion in Q2 2028.

Dubai , April 22, 2026 : DMCC has announced the launch of One Uptown Place and Two Uptown Place, two new premium commercial towers within its flagship Uptown Dubai district, representing the latest milestone in the district’s expansion.

The development will add more than 560,000 square feet of Grade A office space, taking the district’s total commercial footprint beyond 1 million square feet.

Leasing is expected to open in the second half of the year, with completion targeted for the first quarter of 2028.

Comprising 21 and 15 storeys respectively, the towers are designed to accommodate a wide spectrum of occupiers, from multinational corporates to fast-scaling firms.

Office configurations will range from 2,100 square feet to 17,600 square feet, with select floors offering integrated, multi-level layouts connected by private staircases – a format aimed at larger tenants seeking operational cohesion.

An additional 82,000 square feet of retail space will be incorporated into the development.

The expansion comes as DMCC builds out new ecosystems in finance and capital markets, including the recent launch of FinX and the Wealth Hub, which are designed to anchor financial institutions, fintech platforms, alternative lenders and digital asset firms within the district.

Ahmed bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of DMCC, said, “Businesses are increasingly prioritising environments that combine connectivity, flexibility and access to capital and markets. With One Uptown Place and Two Uptown Place, we are adding over 560,000 square feet of Grade A office space, taking Uptown Dubai’s total commercial capacity beyond 1 million square feet.

“As we continue to build out ecosystems for the next generation of businesses, including DMCC Wealth Hub, FinX and the Maritime Centre, Uptown Dubai is evolving into a fully integrated district, offering companies a premium and connected platform to grow and operate globally,” he added.

The development will also provide more than 1,600 parking spaces with valet services, alongside a dedicated shuttle connection to the Dubai Metro.

Both buildings are targeting LEED Gold certification, incorporating energy- and water-efficiency systems, solar-controlled glazing and enhanced indoor environmental standards.

Dubai, April 22, 2026 : The UAE will be hosting the ‘Gulf Creators’ event, a dedicated platform for GCC dialogue organised by the UAE Government Media Office on 27 April at the Atlantis, The Palm Dubai.

Bringing together over 1,000 GCC-based media professionals, intellectuals and content creators, the event aims to discuss shaping an impactful narrative that reflects the region’s aspirations and highlights its deeply held principles.

The event features discussions panels led by government leaders, media professionals and content creators, who will exchange insights and unify efforts to create a resonant, more influential media discourse that reflects GCC’s aspirations and underscores its active global presence.

The event also aims to amplify the collective voice of GCC nations on the global stage, highlighting political and humanitarian principles that shape the region’s policies and initiatives, while underscoring its global presence by building a clear, cohesive narrative that reflects GCC’s stand toward national and regional priorities.

Mohammad Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs, stated that the Gulf Creators event is driven by the strategic significance of advancing and empowering a GCC media industry that commands a global presence.

Al Gergawi added that the event underscores the position of GCC nations as incubators of youth talent and creativity.

‘Gulf Creators’ aims to empower content creators by enhancing their skills and expertise, enabling them to produce impactful digital content that reflects the region’s aspirations amidst emerging challenges, and is capable of presenting a professional, high-impact national narrative with a wider global reach.

The event is designed to foster shaping the future of content creation by formulating innovative visions to address rapid shifts in the digital media landscape and keep pace with evolving technology, in order to facilitate navigating various challenges and ensure the flow of accurate, reliable information that safeguards the public against misinformation and polarisation.

‘Gulf Creators’ reinforces the standing of GCC nations and confirms their role as significant global hubs that bring together intellectuals and creative talent. It also bolsters the region’s status as a secure and stable destination for the content economy, capable of transforming geopolitical challenges into opportunities for innovation and growth.

Moreover, the event seeks to identify emerging talent and channel their potential toward digital ventures that drive development, as well as to nurture a generation of innovators who are conscious of their responsibility in shaping and protecting the public conscience and contribute to the region’s stability.

Dubai , April 22, 2026 : The UAE’s favourite online platform connecting millions of users with property listings, has announced the adoption of TruEstimate™. This advanced, data-backed property valuation tool, powered by Bayut in collaboration with the Dubai Land Department, is designed to empower sellers, landlords, buyers, renters, and real estate professionals with an accurate understanding of real market values across Dubai’s dynamic landscape.

The launch comes at a critical time when providing clarity is essential to maintaining market momentum. By offering a normalized high-intent environment through authenticated data, dubizzle is actively boosting investor trust and reinforcing the UAE’s reputation as a secure global hub, even during periods of regional uncertainty.

Reinforcing Transparency and Market Resilience

The expansion of TruEstimate™ to dubizzle directly supports the Dubai Real Estate Sector Strategy 2033, which prioritizes transparency and data accessibility. As of 13 April 2026, platform data confirms that the UAE market remains resilient, with property listings in Dubai alone generating over 17 million impressions and price variances remaining negligible. By providing a trusted pricing tool that has already seen over 65% adoption rate on Bayut, dubizzle is ensuring that market participants make decisions based on long-term clarity rather than short-term fluctuations.

“Transparency has always been a big focus for us, and TruEstimate™ is a great example of how data can genuinely empower users,” said Haider Ali Khan, CEO of dubizzle and CEO of Dubizzle Group MENA. “Expanding it to dubizzle means more buyers, sellers and renters now have easy access to real market values, which ultimately leads to better, more informed property decisions.”

How TruEstimate™ Empowers Users

TruEstimate™ generates personalized reports using verified property identifiers, such as Title Deeds, Oqood contracts, or DEWA numbers. These reports provide the objective insights necessary for users to navigate the market with confidence:

● Estimated Sale or Rental Value: Delivering accurate pricing grounded in actual market data.

● Transaction and Yield Insights: Providing property transaction history and rental yield data.

● Comparative Analysis: Detailed information on comparable properties recently sold or rented, as well as active similar listings.

Accessibility Across the Property Journey

Available across both web and app platforms, TruEstimate™ is integrated into the homepage, listing pages, and top navigation bar. This ensures that users can access reliable valuations at every stage of their journey, reinforcing the UAE’s position as a “Safe Haven” where strategic capital can move faster than fear.

Dubai , April 22, 2026 : Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) honoured 737
outstanding public bus drivers who consistently delivered
exceptional results throughout 2025 in line with the approved
performance standards, demonstrating high levels of safety,
professional discipline, and operational efficiency. The recognition
reflects RTA’s firm commitment to enhancing the quality of public
transport services and strengthening safety and quality standards in
ways that contribute to customer happiness.
Marwan Al Zarooni, Director of Buses at RTA’s Public Transport
Agency, said: “The initiative to honour outstanding public bus drivers
reflects RTA’s commitment to achieving its strategic goals in health,
safety, security, and customer happiness. It also supports the
creation of a safe transport environment and the delivery of
innovative and sustainable services that elevate the customer
journey to world-class standards.”
“The Buses Department conducts an annual assessment of public
bus drivers through a dedicated evaluation framework based on a
set of key criteria, most notably compliance with traffic safety and
security standards, adherence to rules and regulations, avoidance of
traffic violations, service quality, the promotion of exemplary driver
conduct, the prevention of customer complaints, and commitment to
professional discipline,” he added.
Al Zarooni congratulated the honoured drivers on their outstanding
performance, commending their efforts, commitment to quality and
operational standards, and dedication to delivering a safe and

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integrated transport service for customers in a way that reflects the
civilised image of Dubai and the United Arab Emirates as a whole.
He said: “This initiative forms part of RTA’s ongoing efforts to further
develop customer services and foster a positive competitive
environment among drivers. It helps raise road safety standards,
strengthen awareness, and motivate drivers to pursue excellence
and uphold commitment in line with the highest quality standards
and global leadership in service delivery.”
Al Zarooni praised the high standards demonstrated by public bus
drivers, affirming that their efforts had a direct impact on the record
growth in ridership achieved in 2025. Public bus ridership reached
197.2 million, up 4.9% compared with 2024, marking the highest
growth rate recorded in recent years and underscoring growing
customer confidence in the public transport system.
The honoured drivers expressed their appreciation and pride at the
recognition, affirming that the initiative serves as a strong incentive
to sustain excellence and commitment while building on the results
achieved. They added that it reflects RTA’s care for its human
capital and its commitment to fostering a culture of appreciation and
motivation in support of customer happiness objectives and its
vision of being The World Leader in Seamless and Sustainable
Mobility.