News

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.

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.