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Abudhabi , April 17 , 2026 : Etihad Airways today announced a significant expansion of its Africa network, adding new routes to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Eritrea, Ghana, Nigeria and Zimbabwe from Abu Dhabi, as part of its continued global growth strategy.

The new services reflect investment in high-growth markets, supporting increasing connectivity across trade, cargo and mobility.

The expansion builds directly on Etihad’s recently announced China growth, including increased frequencies and a deepened partnership with China Eastern Airlines. Together, these developments position Abu Dhabi as a key gateway between Africa, India and Asia, enabling more efficient movement of goods, investment and people between two of the world’s fastest-growing regions.

It also aligns with growing economic ties between the UAE and Africa, with increasing trade, investment and commercial partnerships across sectors including energy, infrastructure, mining and logistics. Abu Dhabi continues to strengthen its role in enabling these flows, supporting deeper economic engagement between the regions.

In parallel, it also complements Etihad’s strategic joint venture with Ethiopian Airlines, which this month marked 80 years of operations, further strengthening connectivity across the African continent.

Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said, “Africa is a natural and compelling next step in Etihad’s network expansion. These are markets with strong underlying demand, driven by trade, investment and population growth. Our role is to provide the connectivity that enables that growth.

“Demand for air connectivity across key African markets is outpacing existing supply, particularly in cargo and trade-linked sectors. This expansion is a direct response to that structural opportunity.

“By extending our network alongside our recent China expansion, we are enabling a more efficient corridor linking Africa, the Middle East and Asia through Abu Dhabi. For passengers, this creates simpler, faster journeys. For cargo, it provides more direct and reliable access between two regions where trade is growing rapidly.”

The new services will provide direct links between African markets and Abu Dhabi, while enabling one-stop connections to China, India, across Asia and throughout the Middle East.

Saudi , April 17 . 2026 : Lulu Retail officially marked a new milestone in its digital expansion with the grand launch of its ultra-fast delivery service ‘ Lulu Minutes ‘ in Saudi Arabia. Yusuffali M.A., Chairman of Lulu Group launched the ‘ Lulu Minutes ‘ at Lulu Hypermarket, Avenue Mall, Al Murabba, Riyadh in the presence of Mohammed Haris, Director of Lulu Saudi Arabia, along with senior management and other dignitaries.

This smart launch introduces the updated Lulu 2.0 app, enhancing a digital infrastructure that currently serves 10 key cities across the Kingdom through a network of 45 stores. The service is available in Riyadh, Dammam, Jeddah, Hail, Tabuk, Yanbu, Khamis Mushait, Taif, Al Ahsa, Hafr Al Batin, and Jubail. While the platform continues to offer flexible scheduled delivery options, the Lulu 2.0 upgrade and the Lulu Minutes feature ensure that fulfillment is now significantly faster and more efficient for customers.

“Lulu Minutes marks a significant step forward in redefining smart retail, giving customers instant access to products at their fingertips. Powered by advanced technologies, including AI-driven systems, we are committed to delivering a seamless, secure, and best-in-class shopping experience that meets the evolving expectations of today’s consumers,” said Yusuffali M.A., Chairman of Lulu Group.

Lulu Minutes is designed to meet the growing consumer demand for speed and convenience, offering a wide assortment of groceries, fresh produce, and daily essentials delivered directly to the doorstep in minutes. Through its advanced hyper-local delivery model, the service ensures that customers receive the highest quality products with maximum efficiency. As part of this launch, various introductory coupon codes are available on the app, providing customers with added value and savings on their initial orders.

This new initiative reflects Lulu’s ongoing dedication to enhancing the retail landscape in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia through innovation and advanced technology. By integrating a user-friendly app interface with a robust delivery network, ‘ Lulu Minutes ‘ aims to redefine the shopping experience, making it more accessible and responsive to the needs of the modern, fast-paced consumer needs.

Sharjah ,April 17 , 2026 : Sharjah Museums Authority is marking the 30th anniversary of the opening of
Sharjah Science Museum under the slogan “Thirty Years of Scientific
Achievement”, in a celebration that reflects on the journey of one of the
country’s leading interactive science centres since its opening on April 17, 1996,
and its continued role in fostering scientific culture and promoting learning
based on experimentation and discovery among all segments of society.
The celebration crowns three decades of work to advance scientific knowledge
through innovative programmes that blend education with hands-on learning.
The museum is one of the most engaging and interactive museums in the UAE,
reflecting the pace of scientific and technological change while reinforcing its
role as a cultural and educational institution that underpins Sharjah’s standing
as a capital for culture in the Arab world.
To mark this historic occasion, Sharjah Science Museum is organising a series
of events and interactive programmes throughout the year, with each month
dedicated to a specific scientific theme to be announced in due course. 
Activities begin on April 17 and include initiatives family science workshops,
and celestial observation sessions, in an enriching experience that combines
enjoyment and knowledge, alongside a review of key milestones in the museum’s
journey, development and pioneering role.

May will see the launch of the “Science with the Family” initiative, family
science workshops and celestial observation sessions, marking the Year of the
Family and International Museum Day. 
June will be dedicated to World Environment Day, alongside family science
workshops as part of Environment and Sustainability Month, while July will
feature “Moon Day” and family science workshops as part of Space and Moon
Month. 
August will host the month-long “Summer is Sweeter with the Family”
programme as part of the 2026 summer activities, while September will feature
the “Science Challenge with Families” programme for people with hearing
disabilities, alongside family science workshops, as part of programmes tailored
to this group.
October will feature activities for the International Day of Older Persons,
celestial observation sessions, family science workshops and World Space Week

2026. November will include the “Science Challenge with Families”, celestial
      observation sessions and family science workshops as part of Innovation, Child
      and Family Month. 
      The year will conclude in December with special National Day programmes,
      celestial observation sessions and family science workshops.
      Since its establishment, Sharjah Science Museum has stood out as one of the
      country’s leading educational and cultural institutions, playing a central role in
      educating generations through an interactive model that transforms science
      from theoretical concepts into a living experience that speaks to the curiosity of
      visitors, particularly children and young people. 
      The museum was established as part of the enlightened vision of His Highness
      Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed AlQasimi, Supreme Council Member and
      Ruler of Sharjah, who believes that museums are open schools for generations,
      helping to make Sharjah a cultural beacon with a global presence.
      Since its opening, the museum has seen notable growth in the scope of its
      programmes and scientific content, having from the outset adopted an approach
      based on presenting science through engaging, interactive methods that allow
      visitors to experience science for themselves and connect theoretical concepts to
      everyday life. 

This has been reflected in a steady increase in visitor numbers, underscoring the
success of its educational programmes and the breadth of its interactive
offerings. Initiatives such as the Summer of Science, innovation-focused events,
and seasonal camps have further strengthened its position as a leading
interactive educational destination for families and students alike.

The museum has strengthened its presence and impact through co-operation
and partnerships with a number of scientific and academic institutions. In
addition to its membership in the Arab Planetarium Society, it has built
successful partnerships with the Emirates Astronomical Society, the
International Astronomical Centre, Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre, the
Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences and Technology, the
Mohammed bin Rashid Smart Learning Initiative, the UAE Board on Books for
Young People, Sharjah Electricity, Water and Gas Authority, Sharjah
Municipality, the University of Sharjah, the American University of Sharjah,
Khalifa University, the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, and the
Department of Agriculture and Livestock, among others. These partnerships
have enriched the museum’s programmes, broadened its impact and helped
deliver educational experiences based on best practice in museum learning.

The museum, houses a range of scientific and educational facilities. In the main
exhibition hall, visitors are given the opportunity to engage directly with
interactive exhibits covering multiple scientific fields, including physics, biology,
astronomy, physiology, sound and light, enhancing practical understanding of
scientific concepts through touch, experimentation and discovery. 
The planetarium, one of the first in the country, is also one of the museum’s key
attractions, offering interactive astronomy presentations that open a window
onto planets, stars and cosmic phenomena, while giving visitors the chance to
follow local and international astronomical events through a visually engaging
experience. 
This is complemented by the demonstration lecture hall, which hosts around 15

live scientific presentations on topics including static electricity, lasers,
cryogenics, the digestive system and the formation of the Earth, as well as
simplified shows for children celebrating the wonder and magic of science.
The museum’s education centre plays a pivotal role in supporting its
educational mission. It includes a science laboratory, an exploration area and
teaching rooms equipped to suit different school stages. The centre offers more
than 30 workshops, enabling students to gain in-depth scientific experience in
science and technology fields, while welcoming pupils from public and private
schools across the country as well as different segments of society.
The museum’s role extends beyond exhibits and workshops to organising a
broad range of scientific programmes and activities throughout the year,
including interactive family workshops in the evenings, children’s camps during
school holidays, events during festivals and public holidays, and temporary
exhibitions that keep pace with the latest scientific innovations. 
It also hosts leading scientific figures and diverse programmes linked to
international and local occasions such as World Space Week and World
Children’s Day. 
The museum further enhances its integrated visitor experience through a range
of supporting facilities and services, including a play area for children under the
age of four, a thinking and learning corner featuring puzzles and mind games, a
café, and an educational gift shop, in addition to facilities designed for people
with disabilities and senior visitors, reflecting its commitment to making
scientific knowledge accessible and inclusive for all.
On the cultural and educational front, Sharjah Science Museum plays a vital
role in deepening scientific awareness in the UAE through engaging
programmes that connect scientific concepts with real-world application and
encourage children and students to explore, think critically and innovate.
Through the efforts of the museum that has turned science into a dynamic
experience that sparks curiosity, fires the imagination and nurtures a lasting
passion for discovery.

Visitors can also benefit from a joint ticket granting access to both Sharjah
Science Museum and Sharjah Archaeology Museum, located just 220 meters
apart, offering a seamless and enriching combined experience.

Dubaim, April 17, 2026 :  Dubai Safari Park has been officially welcomed as an Institutional Member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) on 19 March 2026, marking a significant milestone in its journey towards global excellence in conservation, animal welfare, and education.

WAZA is the leading global organisation representing zoos and aquariums committed to the highest standards of animal welfare, conservation, scientific research, and public education. With this membership, Dubai Safari Park joins a select group of internationally recognised institutions, reinforcing its position as a credible and responsible wildlife destination aligned with global best practices.

The achievement builds on Dubai Safari Park’s existing membership with the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA), further strengthening its international standing and commitment to continuous improvement across all areas of operation.

By joining WAZA, Dubai Safari Park enhances its contribution to global conservation efforts while gaining access to international expertise, research, and collaborative programmes. The membership also enables participation in global initiatives such as conservation funding opportunities and knowledge exchange platforms, supporting the Park’s long-term sustainability and biodiversity goals.

Home to more than 3,000 animals representing over 300 species, Dubai Safari Park is one of the largest wildlife parks in the region. Its continued development reflects a broader vision to integrate conservation, education, and visitor experience within a sustainable and future-focused environment.

Muna Alhajeri, Park Director of Dubai Safari Park, said: “Joining the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums marks a significant milestone for Dubai Safari Park and reflects our ongoing commitment to the highest international standards of animal welfare, conservation, and education. This membership strengthens our role within the global conservation community and supports our efforts to deliver meaningful educational experiences while contributing to the protection of biodiversity. It also reinforces Dubai Safari Park’s position as a responsible and world-class wildlife destination for residents, visitors, and partners.”

David Field, President of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA), said:“WAZA is delighted to welcome Dubai Safari Park to this community of progressive conservation zoos. Their achievements to date and the aspirations and ambitions for conservation are truly admirable.”

This milestone reflects Dubai Safari Park’s alignment with global sustainability and biodiversity priorities, supporting Dubai’s broader vision to position itself as a leading destination for sustainable tourism and environmental stewardship. It also strengthens confidence among visitors, families, and educational institutions by reaffirming the Park’s adherence to internationally recognised standards.

Through its WAZA membership, Dubai Safari Park will continue to invest in advancing animal welfare practices, expanding conservation programmes, and enhancing public awareness through education and engagement initiatives. The Park remains committed to delivering high-quality visitor experiences while contributing to global efforts to protect wildlife and natural ecosystems.

Dubai Safari Park continues to play a key role in enhancing Dubai’s liveability, sustainability, and pioneering vision by creating immersive, educational, and responsible wildlife experiences that connect communities with nature.

Bahrain ,April 14 , 2016 : Bahrain’s gross domestic product (GDP) grew 3.5 percent at constant prices in 2025 compared with 2024, according to preliminary national accounts estimates released by the Information & eGovernment Authority (iGA).

Real GDP reached BHD15,709.8 million in 2025 at constant prices, up from BHD15,181.4 million in 2024.

In the fourth quarter, GDP expanded 4.6 percent at constant prices and 5.1 percent at current prices year-on-year, the Bahrain News Agency reported.

The non-oil sector rose by 7.4 percent at constant prices and 7.9 percent at current prices.

Dubai , April 15c, 2026: The UAE has announced that it will host the 2029 Annual Meetings of the World Bank Group and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in Abu Dhabi, in yet another vote of international confidence in the country’s economy.

The move will further reinforce the UAE’s position as a global financial hub as well as a key partner in supporting the stability of the international economic system and shaping its future direction.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai said: “In a global vote that reflects international confidence and underscores the UAE’s strong financial standing, the United Arab Emirates has been chosen to host the 2029 Annual Meetings of the World Bank Group and the International Monetary Fund in Abu Dhabi, a clear reflection of the strength and capability of its people.”

His Highness added: These global meetings bring together central bank governors and finance ministers from 190 countries and serve as a key platform to shape global financial stability policies and define the future of the international economy.

H.H. said: Proud of the United Arab Emirates, proud of its economic and financial talent, proud of its growing global standing, and proud of the trust it continues to earn from the world, day after day.

The UAE was selected to host the global event after securing the highest number of votes as part of an international evaluation process, demonstrating global trust in the country’s economic power, institutional readiness, and its stable and resilient economic environment.

The decision is also a testament to the UAE’s balanced fiscal and monetary policies, advanced infrastructure, and extensive experience in hosting major international events, further strengthening its role as a global platform for multilateral economic dialogue.

The hosting also builds on the UAE’s track record in organising such meetings, having previously hosted the same event in Dubai in 2003.

H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, stressed that hosting the 2029 Annual Meetings of the World Bank Group and the International Monetary Fund is in line with the country’s strategic vision of strengthening international partnerships and reinforcing its role as a key hub supporting global financial and economic stability.

H.H. noted that the UAE will continue to bolster its position in shaping the future of the global economy through an approach driven by openness, cooperation, and flexible fiscal as well as economic policies that stimulate growth and stability.

Sheikh Maktoum added: “This global event will provide a significant platform to promote constructive financial and economic dialogue among countries worldwide. We are committed to providing an ideal environment that leads to tangible outcomes supporting sustainable development and strengthening global financial and economic integration.”

Hosting this major international gathering, Sheikh Maktoum said, also showcases the UAE’s readiness, backed by its sophisticated infrastructure and proven organisational expertise, to serve as a global centre for economic decision-making and an effective platform for building international partnerships that shape the future of the global economy.

The Annual Meetings of the World Bank Group and the International Monetary Fund are among the world’s most important economic gatherings, bringing together finance ministers, central bank governors, policymakers and experts from more than 190 countries.

Every year, the meetings provide an ideal setting to discuss global economic priorities, including growth prospects, financial stability, sustainable development and challenges facing the global economy.

Therefore, hosting this event carries significant strategic importance for the UAE, further strengthening its role as a trusted partner in international economic decision-making.

The decision also builds on the UAE’s active role in supporting multilateral cooperation, fostering constructive dialogue between advanced and emerging economies.

Through such platforms, the country seeks to accelerate efforts to develop innovative solutions to global economic challenges while also promoting inclusive and sustainable economic growth worldwide.

Sharjah , April 14, 2026 : The real estate sector in the Emirate of Sharjah continued its strong performance during the first quarter of 2026, achieving notable growth in trading value and total transactions despite regional challenges.

Total real estate trading value reached AED18.5 billion, compared to AED13.2 billion during the same period in 2025, marking a growth of 40.7 percent and reflecting the sector’s resilience and growing investor confidence.

According to data released by the Sharjah Real Estate Registration Department, the total number of real estate transactions executed during the first quarter reached 29,235, representing an increase of 18.9 percent compared to the previous year.

Abdulaziz Ahmed Al Shamsi, Director-General of the Sharjah Real Estate Registration Department, affirmed that the emirate’s real estate sector continues its accelerated growth despite current conditions, supported by investor confidence and an adaptive legislative environment. This reflects the success of strategic plans and enhances the market’s attractiveness for long-term investments.

He added that digital transformation and smart services have contributed to accelerating procedures and improving transaction efficiency, positively impacting customer experience and strengthening Sharjah’s position as one of the leading real estate markets in the UAE and the region.

During the first quarter of 2026, seven new real estate projects were registered in the Emirate of Sharjah. These projects spanned residential, industrial and commercial sectors, reflecting the emirate’s commitment to developing an integrated urban environment that meets the needs of residents and investors while supporting sustainable market growth.

A total of 47 projects in the Emirate of Sharjah have been approved for ownership by non-UAE nationals and GCC nationals since the issuance of Executive Council Resolution No. (30) of 2022 regarding property ownership in the emirate. Among these, three projects received approval during the first quarter of 2026.

Sharjah witnessed a notable increase in the diversity of nationalities investing in its real estate sector during the first quarter of 2026, reaching 113 nationalities, compared to 97 nationalities in 2025.

The number of properties traded by investors of various nationalities reached 15,926, compared to 11,852 properties during the same period last year, reflecting a broader investor base and reinforcing the emirate’s real estate market appeal.

UAE nationals accounted for approximately AED9 billion of the total trading value, represented by 10,099 properties. GCC nationals invested AED0.8 billion across 502 properties, while Arab nationals invested AED3.4 billion through 2,692 properties. Investors from other nationalities accounted for AED5.3 billion across 2,633 properties.

Dubai , April 13, 2026 : the global learning platform formerly known as Quizizz, is launching Learning Uninterrupted, an initiative that puts its full suite of premium tools in the hands of educators across the GCC, completely free of charge, through the end of the 2025–2026 academic year, with no contracts, no payment details and no strings attached.

Learning Uninterrupted is designed to bridge learning for Middle East educators. It is a direct response offering free Premium licenses to all educators to ensure that learning continues without interruption, regardless of what is happening outside the classroom.

Thousands of schools across the Middle East have been forced to suspend classes or go online with little preparation, due to the current situation. Learning Uninterrupted makes a practical difference by providing engagement tools built specifically for online learning and supporting all learning environments. Furthermore, it provides teachers with an AI Quiz Builder for instant lessons and millions of ready-made activities, ensuring there is no disruption to their existing lesson plans.

More than 940,000 teachers are currently engaged in teaching across the GCC countries with more than half of them are in the primary classes. With the spread of online classes due to the current situation, they are teaching from home. The Learning Uninterrupted scheme will help all of them to access the industry-leading Artificial Intelligence (AI) learning tools that will help them to stay ahead of the game.

“Teachers carry an enormous responsibility, and we want to make sure the tools they need are never a barrier. This initiative is our commitment to the educators of this region – we are here, we are ready, and access to Waygroundshould never be what stands between a student and a great learning experience,” Ankit Gupta, CEO of Wayground, says.

Educators or administrators can register their interest through Wayground website. Once registered, users receive full Wayground AI Premium package for free through the end of the 2025-26 academic year. The process requires no contract, no payment details, and carries no obligation. It features seamless Learning Management System (LMS) integration for easy setup and allows for school-wide activation in minutes.

Wayground bridges educational priorities and classroom realities with the supplemental curriculum platform that helps students hit grade-level standards faster. Arabic teachers within this region are fully eligible to use and benefit from the platform. They can curate and translate content they are creating for study purposes in Arabic.

The programme is built on a simple belief: a teacher with the right tools can keep learning alive in any environment whether that’s a physical classroom, a hybrid setup, or a fully remote one. Wayground’s mission has always been to make great learning accessible to every student, everywhere. Learning Uninterrupted is that mission in action.

Participating educators receive full access to Wayground AI Premium, including: AI Quiz & Lesson Builder – Generate curriculum-aligned activities in minutes; Millions of Ready-Made Activities – Searchable by subject, grade, and curriculum standard; Live Lessons & Assessments – Real-time engagement tools that work in any learning environment; LMS Integration – School-wide activation in under an hour and Performance Insights – Actionable data for teachers and administrators alike.

Wayground is pairing the programme with weekly onboarding webinars and dedicated local support across the GCC ensuring every participating school can get up and running without friction.

The Learning Uninterrupted programme has the capacity to benefit all the teachers in the Middle East, as it is for all educators and administrators of educational institutions. The programme explicitly offers these free Premium licenses to all educators. As long as these teachers are seeking to strengthen their digital teaching capacity, planning for potential online transitions, or are already operating fully or partially online, they are eligible for the program. 

Educators and administrators across Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon and the UAE can activate their free premium access at: https://learning-uninterrupted.withwayground.com/

Dubai , April 10, 2026 : The UAE has the audacity to defy uncertainty by strengthening its bond with the international community, make them part of its development and it will ride out the current situation faster than expected, HE Satish Kumar Sivan, Indian Consul General, Dubai and Northern Emirates, told the Dubai Chapter of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) – the largest professional organisation in the UAE.

“India has been an integral part of the UAE. Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) form around 40 per cent of the UAE who call the country their home. That’s why NRIs are one of the few communities that are staying back in the middle of the regional conflict as they feel at home in the UAE,” Mr Satish Kumar Sivan told more than 500 accounting professionals attending a gathering in Dubai.

“Adversity is not new to Dubai or the UAE. The country boldly faced the Global Financial Crisis of 2008, the COVID-19 pandemic and came back strong from every crisis. This time also the country will bounce back from the current situation faster than one could think.”

He said, when the conflict broke out on February 28th, the Indian Consulate and Indian Embassy reached out to the community. 

“When we wanted to engage with the community, the first group of professionals that came to our mind was the Chartered Accountants, who have a better understanding of the situation than others,” Mr Sivansaid. “From you, we have received some valuable inputs that we have passed on to the Government. In time of crisis it is the accounting professions who know how to navigate out of the situation.”

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI), Dubai Chapter, has recently elected its new Managing Committee for the 2026–2027 term to be led by CA Rishi Chawla the new Chairman who will be supported by CA Amit Khaitan as Vice Chairman, CA Aashna Mulgaonkar as Secretary, and CA Sanjay Gagarani as Treasurer. 

CA Rishi Chawla, Chairman of ICAI Dubai Chapter, said, “The role of the accounting professionals are becoming crucial, especially in an evolving world with so much uncertainty and disruptions. Their role is becoming central to the survival of businesses as they are the financial engineers who know how to lead organisations out of crisis. That’s why, we have undertaken a number of steps to communicate with our members and the industry to share knowledge, adopt technology in order to lead through uncertainty.”

With more than 3,200 members, ICAI Dubai Chapter is the largest business group in the UAE. Established in 1982, it is also the largest, most active and award-winning chapter among the 54 overseas chapters of ICAI. It has registered a phenomenal growth in membership has exceeded 3,200 members who represent more than 1,550 multinationals and other companies.

The newly appointed committee assumes leadership at a time when the UAE’s financial and corporate landscape is undergoing rapid evolution, with increasing emphasis on governance, tax compliance, and strategic financial leadership. The newly constituted committee will further strengthen the Chapter’s role as a hub for professional excellence, industry collaboration, and knowledge exchange within the UAE’s growing financial ecosystem.

Anil Mohta, a Chartered Accountant and Group Chief Financial Officer of DP World, said, “Disruption is no longer an exception, it has become the operating environment. We are seeing disruptions that are more frequent, increasingly overlapping and prolonged enough to reshape how supply chains operate.

“For finance leaders, that changes the conversation fundamentally. Supply chain risk is no longer an operational issue – it is a financial one. Finance now sits at the centre of decisions on – liquidity management, capital allocation and resource prioritisation under uncertainty. Time becomes money in disruption – delays affect revenue timing, margins and cash cycles.

“For financial leaders, the goal isn’t to avoid disruption – that’s not realistic. The goal is to be ready for it – in the balance sheet, in capex flexibility, in how we manage cash, inventory, customer and supply terms. Resilience is no longer just an operational capability – it is a financial discipline.”

As the UAE strengthens its position as a global business hub, the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI), Dubai Chapter remains committed to supporting its members through continuous professional development, thought leadership initiatives, and strategic partnerships aligned with the nation’s long-term vision. 

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

ICAI Dubai Chapter, established in 1982, is the most active and award-winning chapter among the 54 overseas chapters of ICAI. It has registered a phenomenal growth in membership in recent years and currently has over 3,000 members representing more than 1,550 multinationals and other companies.

Dubai , April 9 , 2026 : Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), in partnership with
Careem, has announced that more than 10 million cycling trips have been
completed through Careem Bike service since its launch in February 2020
to April 2026. This milestone reflects RTA’s leadership in delivering a safe
and sustainable mobility system, alongside a continued commitment to
encouraging environmentally friendly transport modes and supporting
Dubai’s vision to become a bicycle-friendly city, enhancing community
health and quality of life for residents and visitors.
RTA continues to develop cycling infrastructure through an integrated
network of existing and planned tracks, connecting residential areas with
key destinations and public transport stations. Designed in line with the
highest international standards, these tracks facilitate efficient and
seamless access across the emirate, supporting first- and last-mile
journeys and promoting the use of sustainable individual mobility modes.
To mark this achievement, RTA and Careem honoured the most active
users by awarding complimentary subscriptions to the service and
Careem DineOut vouchers. The most active user was also recognised
after completing nearly 5,000 trips, reflecting Dubai’s growing culture of
active and sustainable mobility.
Careem Bike will offer single-trip passes at a promotional price of AED 9.5
for new users on 11 th and 12 th April using the code BIKE10M, compared to
the standard fare of AED 19. This initiative aims to expand access to
sustainable mobility options and make them more accessible.
Hussain Al Banna, CEO of Traffic and Roads Agency at RTA stated: “The
achievement of more than 10 million trips through Careem Bike service,
used by over one million users, highlights the effectiveness of RTA’s First
and Last-Mile Strategy, which is based on sustainability, shared mobility,
and user safety. Cycling trips also support integration with public transportand promote environmentally responsible mobility behaviours. Since the
launch of the service, Careem Bike trips have contributed to reducing
approximately 6.59 thousand tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions,
equivalent taking approximately 2,084 vehicles off the road.”
Al Banna added: “This achievement reflects the success of Dubai’s plans
and projects to expand the cycling track network and integrate
infrastructure across the emirate. The total length of cycling tracks has
increased from 6 km in 2009 to 636 km by the end of 2025, with plans to
reach 1,000 km by 2030. Infrastructure enhancements in residential areas
and around public transport stations have also contributed to increased
community adoption of cycling as a practical, healthy, and environmentally
friendly mode of transport, resulting in a 23% increase in cycling trips,
from 46.6 million in 2024 to 57.3 million in 2025.”
Bassel Al Nahlaoui, Chief Business Officer at Careem, said: “We are
proud to celebrate the achievement of more than 10 million trips through
Careem Bike service. This milestone, together with the rapid expansion of
the service, reflects the strength of our ongoing partnership with RTA. This
support plays a key role in expanding micro-mobility solutions across
Dubai, ensuring that safe and sustainable short-distance travel options
remain accessible to all.”
Since its launch in 2020, Careem Bike service has established itself as a
key component of Dubai’s public transport ecosystem. The network has
expanded from 71 stations to 210, providing more than 2,000 bicycles and
serving 49 residential communities across the emirate.
The network extends across major residential areas and key destinations,
including Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Beach and Jumeirah Street, Jumeirah
Lake Towers, The Greens, Barsha Heights, Dubai Water Canal, Dubai
Media City, Downtown Dubai, Al Qudra, Al Karama, and Al Mankhool.