News

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.

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.