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CBUAE’s foreign assets crossed AED 1.084 trillion at end of January 2026

ABU DHABI, 24, 2026 : The foreign assets of the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) exceeded AED 1.084 trillion at the end of January 2026, compared to AED 1.058 trillion at the end of December 2025, according to official data released today.

The Central Bank’s foreign assets as of the end of January were distributed as follows: AED 285.5 billion in current account balances and deposits with banks abroad, AED 740.9 billion in foreign investments, and AED 58 billion in other foreign assets.

The Central Bank’s balance sheet exceeded AED 1.119 trillion, distributed as follows: AED 533.4 billion in current and deposit accounts, AED 306 billion in monetary bills and Islamic certificates of deposit, AED 177.4 billion in currency notes and coins issued, and AED 24.9 billion in other liabilities. Capital and reserves amounted to AED 77.6 billion.

As for the Central Bank’s assets, they were distributed as follows: AED 224.2 billion in cash and bank balances, AED 76.2 billion in deposits, AED 767.6 billion in investments, and AED 51.3 billion in other assets.

Dubai , March 24 ,2026 : The UAE’s real estate sector continues to demonstrate resilience and steady investor confidence amid the current regional uncertainty, supported by robust structural demand drivers and the country’s reputation as a stable global investment destination, according to Dr. Amit Goenka, Chairman and Managing Director of Nisus Finance Group (NiFCO).

“While geopolitical developments may lead to short-term caution and slower decision-making, the core demand drivers – population inflows, business relocations, residency reforms, and sustained global wealth migration remain intact. As a result, any near-term impact is likely to be sentiment-driven and temporary, with no significant disruption expected to pricing trends or ongoing project pipelines,” said Dr. Amit Goenka.

Notwithstanding the current regional uncertainty, the role of the UAE’s leadership in remaining steadfast and supporting businesses, economic growth, and providing interventions across regulatory, banking, and civil systems has enhanced civic confidence and kept global investors engaged even in such environments. The continued focus of the UAE’s leadership and governance on ensuring peace, stability, and growth for its citizens, residents, and businesses remains paramount, as evidenced through various statements and initiatives undertaken over the past few weeks.

“This will go a long way in reassuring residents, citizens, the business community, and global investors and support continued investment activity over time, as stability returns. As an investment advisor and investor in UAE assets, we continue to view the market with confidence, particularly from a long-term perspective.

“We believe that the UAE, given the larger geopolitical uncertainties and dynamics, will continue to attract global capital once the current conflict subsides, supported by its regulatory strength, dynamic leadership, and continued non-oil economic diversification. Our focus remains on deploying capital in a disciplined but cautious manner in line with evolving market conditions.”

Since the breakout of the conflict, over 4,800 property transactions were recorded in Dubai between February 28 and March 12, with total transaction value reaching nearly AED 16 billion (approximately US$4.3 billion) within just two weeks.

This is on top of the AED 170 billion (US$46.5 billion) worth of property transactions recorded by the Dubai Land Department in the first two months of 2026.

“These data points reflect the underlying strength of the market and should provide reassurance to investors. While the near-term environment may require a more cautious approachthe UAE’s long-term growth story remains firmly in place,” Dr. Goenka said.

Nisus Finance Services Company Limited (NIFCO), recently announced investments in two projects, with a collective investment outlay of nearly AED 322 million, including an AED 101.1 million investment in acquiringParadise View 1, a residential building in the Majan mixed-use community. The announcement comes just two months after Nisus Finance acquired Lootah Avenue at Dubai Motor City for AED 220.76 million in December last year.

The transactions are part of Nisus Finance’s planned US$1 billion fund development in partnership with global institutional funds and family offices, dedicated to the UAE real estate market. 

“Our investment highlights measured institutional confidence in the UAE real estate market and reflects Nisus Finance’s focus on disciplined asset selection, structured transactions, and robust governance under the DIFC regulatory framework.”

“Over the past several weeks, our investors have remained unfettered by the current situation and continue to engage with us to identify new opportunities and build a stronger portfolio. Nisus Finance’s continued focus on disciplined investing and robust governance continues to attract additional LP interest”, he added.

Nisus Finance leverages over a decade and a half of experience, utilising local market expertise and proprietary data to capitalise on emerging trends and consistently deliver superior risk-adjusted returns.

Nisus Finance specialises in urban infrastructure financing and private capital market transactions. The company, along with its subsidiaries and associates, focuses on two main areas: Fund & Asset Management and Transaction Advisory Services. With over a decade of experience in India, Nisus manages IN₹15.72 billion in assets for FY 2025, delivering gross IRR of more than 19 percent.

Dubai, March 18, 2026 : The United Arab Emirates is gearing up to celebrate Eid Al Fitr with a vibrant programme of festivals, entertainment shows and family-oriented activities across public spaces, shopping malls and leisure destinations decorated with festive lights and greetings.

Shopping centres have seen a surge in activity ahead of Eid, as residents stock up on clothing, sweets and gifts, supported by seasonal promotions that have boosted retail traffic.

The Eid holiday, running from 19th to 22nd March, offers an opportunity to visit the country’s tourist attractions, major malls and hotels, many of which have rolled out special programmes for the occasion.

In Abu Dhabi, a range of cultural and entertainment events targeting families and children will take place, led by the Sheikh Zayed Festival in Al Wathba, which has been running since November and features thousands of cultural and public events with broad international participation.

In Al Ain, the second edition of the “Ghaitah Al Ain” festival will run from 20th to 27th March at ADNEC Al Ain, offering live performances, cultural shows and activities for all age groups.

The emirate also offers a wide selection of attractions, including the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Al Maqta’a Museum, Heritage Village, Saadiyat Cultural District and Yas Island’s leisure facilities.

Dubai is preparing for Eid with a series of entertainment events and experiences for families, alongside retail promotions in shopping malls and special hotel packages.

Citywide events include the “Season of Wulfa”, running until 23rd March, while Expo City Dubai will host Eid celebrations from 20th to 22nd March.

In Sharjah, the “Sharjah Ramadan Festival 2026” will continue through Eid, combining retail offers with cultural and heritage experiences, with participation from local and international brands, entrepreneurs and small businesses.

The emirate also offers a mix of leisure, nature and cultural destinations, including Khorfakkan Amphitheater and Waterfall, Al Suhub Rest House, Al Heera Beach, Arabia’s Wildlife Centre, Al Jada, Al Majaz Waterfront, Al Montazah Parks and Al Qasba.

Ajman features a number of heritage attractions, including Ajman Museum, which dates back to the 18th century and showcases artefacts, manuscripts and traditional costumes.

Umm Al Qaiwain offers leisure options such as Dreamland Aqua Park, the emirate’s aviation, shooting and marine clubs, as well as equestrian facilities.

Ras Al Khaimah has completed preparations to welcome visitors during the holiday, offering a range of experiences including Jebel Jais Flight, one of the world’s longest zip lines, Al Hamra Golf Club, Dhayah Fort and its beaches.

Fujairah remains a popular destination for Eid holidays, with attractions such as the Fujairah Corniche, Madhab Spring Park, and Wadi Wurayah, alongside a growing selection of hotels and resorts, including beachfront properties in Al Aqah.

Dubai, March 18 , 2026: The UAE air defence systems on 18th March 2026 engaged 13 ballistic missiles and 27 UAVs launched from Iran.

Since the onset of the blatant Iranian aggression, UAE air defences have engaged 327 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles and 1,699 UAVs.

These attacks have resulted in the martyrdom of two members of the armed forces while performing their national duty, as well as six fatalities of Pakistani, Nepali, Bangladeshi and Palestinian nationalities.

A total of 158 people were also injured, with injuries ranging from minor to moderate and severe. The injured included nationals of the UAE, Egypt, Sudan, Ethiopia, the Philippines, Pakistan, Iran, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Azerbaijan, Yemen, Uganda, Eritrea, Lebanon, Afghanistan, Bahrain, Comoros, Türkiye, Iraq, Nepal, Nigeria, Oman, Jordan, Palestine, Ghana, Indonesia, Sweden and Tunisia.

The Ministry of Defence affirmed that it remains fully prepared and ready to deal with any threats, and will firmly confront any attempts to undermine State security in a manner that ensures the protection of its sovereignty, security and stability, and safeguards its national interests and capabilities.

Dubai , February 27 , 2026 : Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has opened a key second-level bridge as part of the World Trade Centre Roundabout Development Project, marking a significant milestone in efforts to enhance traffic flow across the emirate.

The newly inaugurated 1,000-metre bridge comprises two lanes with a design capacity of 3,000 vehicles per hour. It serves traffic from Sheikh Zayed Road to Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Street towards Al Karama and Deira, reducing journey time from six minutes to just one minute and easing congestion at the World Trade Centre Roundabout.

His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA, described the project as one of the most strategic intersection upgrades in Dubai’s road network.

“The World Trade Centre Roundabout Development Project links Sheikh Zayed Road with five major arterial corridors: Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Street, Sheikh Rashid Street, 2nd December Street, Zabeel Palace Street and Al Majlis Street,” Al Tayer said.

He added that construction works are progressing ahead of schedule, with overall completion exceeding 60 per cent and three bridges already open to traffic. Two additional bridges serving traffic from Sheikh Rashid Street and Al Majlis Street towards 2nd December Street are scheduled to open in October.

Upon full completion, the project is expected to reduce average intersection delay from 12 minutes to 90 seconds. It will also enhance traffic flow from Sheikh Zayed Road towards 2nd December Street and from Al Mustaqbal Street towards Sheikh Zayed Road southbound.

The development will provide free-flow traffic movements from 2nd December Street (Jumeirah and Al Satwa) to Al Majlis Street leading to Al Mustaqbal Street, serving key destinations such as the Dubai World Trade Centre and the Dubai International Financial Centre, as well as to Sheikh Rashid Street in the direction of Deira. It will also enable uninterrupted traffic movement from Sheikh Zayed Road towards Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Street.

Project Details

The project includes the construction of five bridges with a combined length of 5,000 metres, providing free-flow traffic in multiple directions. In addition to the bridge opened today, two bridges were inaugurated in February to serve traffic from 2nd December Street towards Sheikh Rashid Street and Al Majlis Street leading to Al Mustaqbal Street.

These bridges, comprising two lanes in each direction, extend a total of 2,000 metres and have a combined capacity of approximately 6,000 vehicles per hour. The project also involves converting the existing World Trade Centre Roundabout into a signalised at-grade intersection to enhance traffic operations and improve overall network efficiency.

Serving Half a Million Residents and Visitors

The project serves several major commercial, residential and development areas, most notably the Dubai World Trade Centre, a leading venue for international exhibitions and events for more than four decades, and the Dubai International Financial Centre, a key financial hub for the Middle East, Africa and South Asia.

It also enhances connectivity across Zabeel, Al Satwa, Al Karama, Al Jafiliya and Al Mankhool. The total number of beneficiaries is estimated at more than half a million residents and visitors, reinforcing Dubai’s commitment to building a seamless and efficient transport infrastructure.

Dubai ,February 26, 2026 : Dubai International Chamber, one of the three chambers operating under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers, has revealed that 46.9 percent of the multinational companies (MNCs) it attracted to the emirate during 2025 came from Asia.

The Middle East and CIS region ranked second among the list of regions, representing 20.3 percent of the total MNCs attracted to Dubai by the chamber. Europe ranked third with 15.6 percent, followed by the Americas with 12.5 percent, and Africa with 4.7 percent.

Asia also maintained the top position for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), representing 49.8 percent of the total SMEs that Dubai International Chamber successfully attracted to Dubai in 2025.

The Middle East and CIS region ranked in second place, accounting for 19.7 percent, followed by Africa at 12.6 percent, Europe at 10.4 percent, and the Americas making up 7.4 percent of the SMEs attracted.

Dubai International Chamber attracted 64 MNCs to Dubai during 2025 and attracted 309 SMEs in 2025.

Sharjah ,February 26, 2026 : Air Arabia announced the launch of its daily non-stop service connecting Sharjah International Airport with Rome Fiumicino Airport. Commencing on 1st July 2026, the new route will further strengthen the airline’s growing European network and enhance direct connectivity between the UAE and Italy.

The addition of Rome marks another milestone in Air Arabia’s steady European expansion and reinforces its growing presence in Italy. The route will be operated by the Airbus A320neo, one of the latest aircraft added to the carrier’s fleet, offering enhanced fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and improved cabin comfort.

Adel Al Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer, Air Arabia, said, “We are pleased to further expand our European footprint with the launch of daily flights to Rome, one of the world’s most iconic and culturally significant cities. Expanding our presence in Italy reflects our continued commitment to offering convenient, direct connectivity to key international destinations while delivering reliable, value-driven travel options to our customers.”

“We are pleased to welcome Air Arabia, a new carrier that will connect Rome to the United Arab Emirates,” said Ivan Bassato, Chief Aviation Officer of Aeroporti di Roma. “The new service to Sharjah will further expand and diversify the offering to the Arabian Peninsula, reaffirming the strategic importance of the Roman market and strengthening Fiumicino’s international standing as a Skytrax 5 Star Airport and Best Airport in Europe for the past nine consecutive years, thanks to the quality of the services offered to our passengers.”

With the launch of Rome, Air Arabia now offer daily non-stop flights to both Milan– Bergamo and Rome, reinforcing its commitment to providing affordable and convenient travel options between UAE and Italy while supporting the increasing demand for tourism, business, and trade between both countries.

Dubai , February 26 , 2026 : Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has commenced the
implementation of a series of rapid traffic solutions across eight
strategic locations across the emirate, as part of a comprehensive
2026 plan involving more than 45 traffic enhancements. The
measures are designed to enhance efficiency of the road network,
improve traffic flow, and elevate safety standards for all road users,
in line with Dubai’s sustained urban and population growth and the
rising vehicle density across the emirate.
The works span several key locations: Emirates Road from Sharjah
towards Wadi Al Amardi Street; Umm Amara Street from Sheikh
Zayed Road towards Al Wasl Street; Jebel Ali–Lehbab Street; the
area between Sama Al Jaddaf and Al Jaddaf Waterfront near Al
Jaddaf Metro Station; Al Na’ayat Street in Al Barsha 1; Al Maktoum
School in Al Satwa; the intersection of Al Ittihad Street and Al Quds
Street; and Sheikh Rashid Street near Grand Hyatt Dubai towards
Bur Dubai.
Upon completion, the projects are expected to deliver measurable
improvements in traffic performance across the targeted locations.
RTA aims to reduce congestion levels and shorten journey times by
15% to 30%, thereby enhancing traffic flow, improving the daily
mobility experience, and strengthening the operational efficiency of
the road network in these vital areas.
The solutions include widening selected streets from one lane to two
lanes, converting roundabouts into signalised intersections,
constructing new links to enhance connectivity between main roads
and adjacent residential and commercial districts, and implementing
at-grade upgrades. The works also include providing additional
parking spaces at schools and key facilities, alongside a
comprehensive package of traffic safety enhancements, supportinga seamless and secure mobility experience for all road users across
the Emirate.
In delivering road upgrades and traffic improvements, RTA applies
three principal criteria. The process begins with continuous
monitoring of road network performance, comprehensive traffic
studies, and detailed data analysis to identify congestion hotspots
and critical points. Traffic control centres provide real-time
monitoring to detect bottlenecks, while field inspection teams
evaluate on-site conditions and recommend suitable solutions. This
integrated methodology ensures tangible improvements in traffic
flow and helps reduce congestion during peak hours.

Dubai , February 26, 2026 : Dubai’s real estate market is entering a new infrastructure-led growth phase, with Dubai Islands and Dubai South widely regarded as the emirate’s next future hotspots. Backed by long-term master planning, government investment, and large-scale connectivity upgrades, both districts are attracting investors seeking early positioning within high-potential corridors.

Recognising the long-term potential of these master-planned corridors, Amirah Developments has strategically aligned its growth strategy with both locations. Through projects such as Bonds Avenue on Dubai Islands and Crown Palace in Dubai South, the developer identified early-stage opportunities within districts supported by infrastructure certainty and projected population growth.

As many as 99 projects are being developed on Dubai Islands – the highest project count region-wise in Dubai. This underscores the region’s investment opportunities, driving both heavyweight and boutiquedevelopers to build properties catering to a diverse clientele, including investors, homebuyers, and future residents.

Amirah highlights the long-term growth potential the region poses, which led to its inaugural launch, Bonds Avenue Residences – an amenity-rich development comprising apartments, triplexes, and penthouses positioned in a master-planned coastal environment with over 21 kilometres of beaches and vibrant urban offerings. The area is currently under development, which means that prices are relatively low compared to mature markets, thereby making it convenient for new buyers and those who want to diversify their investment portfolio to snag properties at cost-effective rates and enjoy higher gains. Bonds Avenue is anticipated for handover by Q1 2027.

Mr. Muhammad Yousuf JafraniFounder and Chairman of Amirah Developments, said, “Dubai Islands stands at the pinnacle of the transformation that Dubai envisions, seamlessly bridging a heritage-rich Old Dubai and a futuristic New Dubai. Once fully developed, the masterplan will drive in an investment flux, leading to population growth and contributing to the economy. Our maiden project, Bonds Avenue Residences, is set for completion in a year’s time. As Dubai Islands progresses into advanced development stages, we can anticipate an increase in the rental yield and capital appreciation of units at Bonds Avenue.”

On the other hand, Dubai South represents one of the most ambitious urban developments in the region. Planned to accommodate up to one million residents upon full completion, the district integrates residential neighbourhoods, logistics hubs, commercial districts, and aviation infrastructure within a unified ecosystem. Central to this transformation is Al Maktoum International Airport, currently undergoing phased expansion to become the world’s largest airport with a projected long-term capacity of up to 260 million passengers annually.

The aerotropolis model surrounding the airport is expected to attract global aviation, logistics, trade, and technology industries, generating significant employment opportunities across multiple sectors. As industries cluster around the airport expansion, demand for residential communities in Dubai South is anticipated to accelerate, reinforcing its position as both an employment and housing hub.

Demand has resulted in 94 launches across the aerotropolis, with Amirah contributing its latest projectCrown Palace. It is a low-rise structure that draws inspiration from classical European architecture. The project blends the timeless appeal of grand arches and balconies with state-of-the-art facilities installed within every residence.

“The return on investment at Dubai South stands at a strong eight percent, while capital appreciation has soared to 20 percent. These figures reinforce the massive potential the area serves, buoyed by advanced infrastructure, job opportunities, and rising population. From the current 145,000, the region is expected to host over a million residents by 2040 – a considerable chunk of Dubai’s overall estimate of 7.8 million. This projection makes it crucial to develop enough housing options, thereby creating lucrative investment opportunities,” Mr. Jafrani added.

Market analysts note that infrastructure-driven districts typically witness sustained capital appreciation as transport networks, commercial ecosystems, and lifestyle amenities mature. In parallel, Dubai Islands is expected to benefit from increasing tourism activity, hospitality launches, and waterfront retail activation, strengthening both end-user and short-term rental demand.

By positioning its developments within emerging, government-backed growth zones, Amirah Developments reflects a forward-looking approach centred on connectivity, urban planning alignment, and sustainable value creation. As Dubai advances into its next real estate cycle, Dubai Islands and Dubai South are increasingly viewed not only as current investment destinations, but as the city’s defining future hotspots for smart capital.

Dubai , February 25 , 2026 : Nisus Finance Services Company Limited (NIFCO) has announced the acquisition of Paradise View 1, a residential building in the Majan mixed-use community, foran investment outlay of AED 101.1 million.

The transaction is part of Nisus Finance’s planned US$1 billion fund deployment strategy in partnership with global institutional funds and family offices, dedicated to the UAE real estate market. The Nisus High Yield Growth Fund is a DIFC-registered Property Fund and Qualified Investor Fund, established as an incorporated cell of Gateway ICC Limited under the laws of the Dubai International Financial Centre. This announcement comes just two months after Nisus Finance acquired Lootah Avenue at Dubai Motor City for AED 220.76 million in December 2025.

Commenting on the investment, Dr. Amit Goenka, Chairman & Managing Director, Nisus Finance, said: “Majan represents a compelling opportunity within Dubai’s evolving residential landscape. The investment is anchored by a Grade A, newly developed asset, fully occupied with a strong tenant profile and attractive rental yields, and offering uninterrupted views facing Al Barari. Featuring modern amenities and a well-balanced mix of studio, one- and two-bedroom residences, the project reflects disciplined asset selection and structured execution. It further underscores growing institutional confidence in the UAE real estate market and Nisus Finance’s commitment to robust governance under the DIFC regulatory framework.

The fund continues to attract leading institutional fund managers, family offices, and UHNI investors across GCC and India, further expanding its international capital base.”

This marks Nisus Finance’s fourth investment under its fund for property investment and comes amid Dubai real estate’s historic milestone in 2025, when total transactions exceeded AED 917 billion (US$250 billion) across 3.11 million deals, representing a 7 percent increase in volume. Investments reached over Dh680 billion, driven by a 24 percent rise in the number of investors to 193,100, according to the Dubai Land Department.

Majan is a mixed-use community in Dubai Land, covering approximately 1.45 square kilometres and strategically positioned along Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road with convenient access to Downtown Dubai, Business Bay, and Dubai International Airport. Planned as a self-contained urban hub, Majan balances residential, commercial, retail, and leisure components, with around 32 percent of land allocated to residential use, 44 percent to retail and commercial activities, and 24 percent to leisure and cultural facilities, creating a well-rounded community structure.

The built environment is dominated by mid-rise apartment complexes that offer affordable housing with modern amenities, appealing to families and working professionals seeking value and connectivity. Competitive rental rates, together with proximity to nearby schools, supermarkets, healthcare facilities, and retail outlets, have supported a steady increase in occupancy and end-user appeal, with multiple projects completed and additional schemes under development.

A growing pipeline of commercial and leisure establishments is gradually shaping Majan into a more vibrant, activation-led community. The master plan includes landscaped public spaces, cultural attractions, and retail promenades, which are expected to enhance footfall, livability, and dwell time as the area matures. The combination of affordability, strategic connectivity, and ongoing development positions Majan as an emerging micro-market with long-term growth potential for both residents and investors.

Mr. Amit Kumar Jhunjhunwala, Director & Chief Investment Officer added “This investment marks the fourth residential real estate deployment in the UAE, further strengthening our presence in the country and taking the total investment outlay to USD 145 Million by the Nisus High Yield Growth Fund within a remarkably short timeframe. This milestone reflects not only disciplined capital allocation and strong on-ground execution, but also the deep trust placed by our investors and stakeholders in our high-yield growth strategy. Our continued momentum underscores the fund’s ability to identify scalable opportunities and consistently deliver value in high-growth markets.”

Nisus Finance leverages a decade of experience, utilising local market expertise and proprietary data to capitalise on emerging trends and consistently deliver superior risk-adjusted returns.

Specialising in urban infrastructure financing and private capital market transactions, Nisus Finance along with its subsidiaries and associates, focuses on two main areas: Fund & Asset Management and Transaction Advisory Services. With over a decade of experience in India, Nisus manages INR 15.72billion in assets for FY 2025, delivering a gross IRR of more than 19 percent.