GCC

Dubai , February 20, 2026 : Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has launched a comprehensive programme of community initiatives to mark the Holy Month of Ramadan under the theme “Family is Where We Belong,” reinforcing social solidarity and promoting a culture of generosity across the emirate.

The initiatives aim to bring joy and tangible support to a broad segment of society, including underprivileged families, orphans, workers, metro users, bus and taxi drivers, delivery riders, and frontline transport staff. The programme will be implemented throughout Dubai during Ramadan in collaboration with public and private sector partners.

Strategic Partnerships to Strengthen Community Impact

RTA is delivering its Ramadan programme in cooperation with several key partners, including Keolis MHI, DAMAC Properties, Noon, Beit Al Khair Society, Al Ahliah Charity Schools, and Dar Al Hay Gents Tailoring.

The authority said the partnerships reflect an integrated approach to community engagement, reinforcing cooperation between government and private sector entities to amplify humanitarian impact.

RTA is also mobilising employees and volunteers to deliver initiatives across various areas of the emirate, in line with its commitment to promoting volunteerism, social responsibility, and humanitarian values that embody the spirit of compassion and cooperation in the UAE.

‘Meals on Wheels’ to Distribute 8,000 Iftar Meals

Among the flagship programmes is the continuation of the “Meals on Wheels” initiative, which will see the preparation and distribution of 8,000 Iftar meals during Ramadan. Meals will be prepared and distributed at RTA’s headquarters and at Quranic Park, with employees and community volunteers participating in the effort.

In parallel, RTA is organising the “Iftar Meal Distribution at Metro Stations” initiative in collaboration with Keolis MHI, DAMAC Properties and Noon. The programme will distribute Iftar meals, accompanied by awareness messages, to heavy vehicle drivers, bus and taxi drivers, and workers across key transport hubs.

‘Ramadan Rations’ to Support Families with 500 nol Cards

Marking Zayed Humanitarian Day, RTA will implement the “Ramadan Rations” initiative to support underprivileged families through the distribution of 500 nol cards. A portion of the cards will be delivered directly to beneficiaries at their homes by RTA teams, while the remainder will be distributed through a cooperative society in coordination with Beit Al Khair Society.

The initiative aims to provide both financial assistance and moral support to eligible families during the Holy Month.

Festive Ambience and Public Engagement Campaigns

As part of broader Ramadan celebrations across Dubai, RTA will contribute to initiatives linked to the “Season of Wulfa” by displaying the “Ramadan in Dubai” logo on Variable Message Signs (VMS) throughout the emirate. The programme will also feature a decorated abra parade to enhance the festive atmosphere and spread joy across different communities.

In addition, RTA is launching the “Thank You, RTA Heroes” campaign across its official social media platforms. The initiative invites members of the public to share messages of appreciation for frontline employees, customer service teams, bus drivers, delivery riders, metro staff, and marine transport personnel. The most impactful submissions will be recognised, with winners receiving nol cards and shopping vouchers.

‘Eid Joy’ Initiative to Support Students

Extending its community engagement beyond Ramadan, RTA will implement the “Eid Joy” initiative in collaboration with Dar Al Hay Gents Tailoring and Al Ahliah Charity Schools. The programme will provide Eid Al Fitr essentials and Eidiya (cash gifts) to students, enabling them to celebrate the festive occasion with dignity and happiness.

RTA said the initiatives underscore its ongoing commitment to strengthening social cohesion, enhancing community happiness, and improving quality of life in Dubai. Through coordinated partnerships and volunteer-driven efforts, the authority continues to position itself as an active contributor to humanitarian and community development initiatives across the emirate.

Dubai , February 20, 2026 : As demand for professionally managed private aviation services continues to evolve, Dubai-based Crystal Wings is positioning itself around an integrated operating model focused on reliability, transparency, and long-term value, according to senior leadership.

Founded in 2024 and headquartered in Dubai, the company provides private jet chartering, aircraft management, crew management, air ambulance operations, and aircraft acquisition consulting. Krishna Kumar, who oversees sales and operational functions, said the firm was structured from the outset to respond to increasing regulatory complexity, heightened safety expectations, and the growing sophistication of private aviation clients.

From Charter Provider to Long-Term Aviation Partner

Kumar emphasized that the company was designed to move beyond a purely transactional charter model.

“Crystal Wings was built as a long-term aviation partner rather than a single-service provider,” he said. “Our focus has always been on understanding client requirements in detail and structuring solutions that evolve with them, supported by strong after-sales service and operational continuity.”

The company’s integrated framework combines consultative advisory services, aircraft selection, regulatory compliance, operational management, and ongoing maintenance under a single structure. According to Kumar, this unified approach reduces the need for clients to coordinate with multiple vendors.

“In practical terms, it means one trusted partner managing the entire process,” he noted. “From planning and execution to post-flight support, clients are not required to coordinate across multiple providers.”

Leadership believes this consolidation improves service consistency and reduces operational friction, particularly for high-net-worth individuals, corporations, and institutional clients requiring seamless global mobility.

Balancing Discretion, Safety, and Transparency

Private aviation often requires balancing confidentiality with measurable accountability — a dynamic Kumar described as central to the company’s operating philosophy.

“We separate what needs to remain private from what must remain transparent,” he said. “Clients are always informed about outcomes, standards, and accountability, without unnecessary exposure to internal complexity.”

Safety and professional oversight remain core pillars of the company’s operations. Kumar stressed that aviation reliability depends not only on systems and technology but also on the experience and preparedness of personnel.

“In aviation, systems are important, but people make them work,” he said. “Our pilots, engineers, and operations leaders bring extensive experience and are trained to anticipate complexity, not react to it. That accountability directly supports performance and client confidence.”

The company’s medical aviation division further illustrates this operational philosophy. Air ambulance missions require rapid activation, ICU-level aircraft configuration, and coordinated execution between aeromedical teams and flight crews.

“Medical aviation leaves no margin for ambiguity,” Kumar said. “Our air ambulance operations are designed around readiness, clinical precision, and real-time coordination with medical partners.”

Dubai as a Strategic Global Anchor

Crystal Wings’ leadership identifies Dubai as central to its global strategy, citing the city’s geographic positioning, infrastructure, and regulatory environment as advantages for 24/7 intercontinental operations.

“Dubai gives us geographic reach, infrastructure, and regulatory alignment that supports around-the-clock global missions,” Kumar said. “For urgent charter missions and medical evacuations, that operational readiness is critical.”

Looking ahead, Kumar indicated that growth will remain measured and demand-driven. Fleet expansion and geographic reach, he said, will align with operational capacity rather than scale for its own sake.

“Our priorities are clear,” he added. “Reliability will always come before scale. Integration is our core strength, safety and governance are non-negotiable, and Dubai will remain our global anchor.”

As the private aviation sector increasingly shifts toward structured, professionally governed platforms, Crystal Wings’ leadership believes that operational discipline and consistency will define long-term relevance in the market.

Dubai , February 18, 2026 : M. A. Yusuff Ali, Chairman of Lulu Group International, has been ranked the most influential Indian expatriate in the Middle East, topping The 100 NRIs list released by leading regional business magazine Middle East Entrepreneur.

The annual ranking recognises Indian-origin leaders who have made significant contributions across retail, real estate, healthcare, finance, technology, innovation and strategic investments. According to the magazine, the list was curated after an extensive evaluation of business impact, leadership influence and long-term contribution to regional economic growth.

Yusuff Ali Leads the Rankings

The publication highlighted Yusuff Ali’s transformative role in modernising the retail ecosystem across the Gulf region. Under his leadership, Lulu Group established a professionalised retail model that strengthened supply chains, enhanced food security frameworks and generated large-scale employment opportunities.

Beyond retail, the group’s investments in hospitality, healthcare, financial services and sustainable infrastructure have accelerated diversified economic development in the region, the magazine noted.

Prominent Names in the Top Five

Joining Yusuff Ali in the top five are:

  • Sunny Varkey, Founder and Executive Chairman of GEMS Education
  • Dr. Adnan Chilwan, Group CEO of Dubai Islamic Bank
  • Dr. Azad Moopen, Founder of Aster DM Healthcare
  • Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Founder and Chairman of Burjeel Holdings

The magazine underscored the critical role played by healthcare, education and financial institutions in shaping the Middle East’s long-term growth trajectory.

Business Leaders Dominate Top Ten

Several high-profile Indian business leaders also secured places in the top ten, including:

  • Adeeb Ahamed, MD of Lulu Financial Holdings
  • Vivek Oberoi, Bollywood actor and Co-founder of BNW Developments
  • Ankur Aggarwal, Founder and Chairman of BNW Developments
  • Ajay Bhatia, Founder and CEO of SOL Properties
  • Manish Malhotra, Creative Director and entrepreneur

Industry Stalwarts Feature in the List

Other notable figures featured include:

P. N. C. Menon of Sobha Group;
Thumbay Moideen of Thumbay Group;
Ravi Pillai of RP Group;
Firoz Merchant of Pure Gold Jewellers;
Rizwan Sajan of Danube Group;
Sohan Roy of Aries Group;
Ramesh Ramakrishnan of Transworld Group;
Joy Alukkas; and
Shamlal Ahamed of Malabar Gold & Diamonds.

Women Leaders Make Strong Presence

The list also highlights the growing influence of women leaders in the region’s corporate landscape. Among those featured prominently are:

Sima Ganwani Ved of Apparel Group;
Prakriti Singh of Mastercard;
Renuka Jagtiani of Landmark Group;
Shobha Menon of Equiti Group;
Vidya Chhabria of Jumbo Group;
Alisha Moopen of Aster DM Healthcare; and
Sonia Gokhale of VentureSouq.

Celebrating Indian Impact in the Gulf

The 100 NRIs list reflects the expanding economic and strategic footprint of the Indian diaspora in the Middle East. From retail and infrastructure to healthcare and fintech, Indian entrepreneurs continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the region’s evolving business landscape.

With strong cross-border trade ties and long-standing cultural connections between India and the Gulf nations, the influence of Indian business leaders in the Middle East shows no signs of slowing down.

Dubai , February 17 , 2026 : An event attended by His Excellency Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy and Tourism, marked the official launch of Authentic Leadership – Invaluable Lessons from the Life and Natural Leadership Style of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, a new book by prominent Emirati business leader and Lootah Holding Chairman Saleh Abdullah Lootah.

The book explores the visionary leadership of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father of the United Arab Emirates, and offers a timely reflection on the values-driven approach that transformed a collection of coastal emirates into one of the world’s most dynamic and globally respected nations.

A Vision That United a Nation

Sheikh Zayed’s ability to unite diverse tribes and emirates under a shared national vision remains one of the most defining achievements in modern state-building. Through dialogue, conviction, and an unwavering commitment to the greater good, he laid the foundations of the UAE Federation in 1971 and led the country for more than three decades with wisdom, humility, and purpose.

Before unification, the region was known as the Trucial States — a grouping of coastal sheikhdoms navigating complex tribal and geopolitical realities. The emergence of the UAE from these beginnings into a global economic powerhouse required leadership capable of addressing cultural diversity while inspiring unity and shared aspiration.

In less than 55 years since its formation, the UAE has risen to become the world’s 29th largest economy, with Gross Domestic Product reaching approximately US$570 billion — a milestone that underscores the depth of its economic transformation.

From Coastal Emirates to Global Hub

Today, the UAE stands as the second-largest Arab economy and a major global hub for trade, investment, innovation, and talent. In 2025, the nation’s non-oil foreign trade reached Dh3.8 trillion, reflecting sustained growth and resilience amid shifting global dynamics.

The country has become an international destination for entrepreneurs, investors, scientists, professionals, and global talent, widely regarded as one of the safest and most opportunity-rich environments in the world.

According to Lootah, this progress is deeply rooted in Sheikh Zayed’s authentic and people-centred leadership philosophy.

“When the UAE was formed, uniting seven Emirates with distinct identities posed an extraordinary challenge,” Lootah writes. “Sheikh Zayed achieved this unification through the power of vision — speaking with clarity, listening with respect, and inspiring a shared purpose.”

Leadership Through a Modern Lens

In the book, Lootah draws on leadership scholarship and lived national experience to present Sheikh Zayed as a model of “authentic leadership” — a style grounded in integrity, responsibility, empathy, and long-term vision.

The publication also examines how the UAE’s leadership has consistently transformed global challenges into opportunities — from financial crises to the COVID-19 pandemic — demonstrating adaptability, courage, and governance focused on people and long-term sustainability.

By evaluating Sheikh Zayed’s approach through the lens of modern global management frameworks, Lootah argues that the founding father intuitively embodied principles that today’s leadership theorists formally define.

A Blueprint for Future Leaders

Now available in English and Arabic through Amazon, Authentic Leadership serves as both a tribute to Sheikh Zayed’s enduring legacy and a blueprint for the next generation of leaders — those committed to building trust, driving meaningful impact, and shaping a future rooted in values and purpose.

The launch event underscored the continued relevance of Sheikh Zayed’s philosophy at a time when leadership worldwide faces increasing complexity. More than a historical reflection, the book positions authentic, values-based leadership as essential to sustainable national and organizational success in the 21st century.

Dubai ,February 17 , 2026 : 2026: Dealing , a new global investing platform, has officially launched with a clear mission to reshape how investors access, understand, and participate in global financial markets. Built as an investment-first platform, Dealing is designed for long-term investors who prioritise diversification, discipline, sustainable wealth creation, and exposure.

Starting today, Dealing will offer opportunities to invest in more than 30,000 financial assets across 10+ global markets operating under 30+ licenses and registrations. Through a single unified account, investors can participate across stocks, ETFs, derivatives, and other global instruments, enabling meaningful diversification across markets.

The platform’s core focus is to provide a fully transparent, secure, simple, and compliant investing experience across mobile and web. It is built on an education-led approach that empowers investors to make informed decisions with the right mindset, free from pressure, urgency, or impulsive actions. At a time when global equity participation remains structurally limited, Dealing unlocks borderless access, enabling investors to participate across markets worldwide and access wealth-creation opportunities that extend beyond the ordinary, beyond borders, and beyond the obvious.

The global investing platform is first consumer-facing platform under the broader umbrella offered by Dealing Investment Banking Services headquartered in Mauritius. Dealing Investment Banking Services offers corporate finance advisory, product structuring and distribution, wealth management and investment advisory, market making / liquidity facilitation and brokerage and execution services through the global investing platform. 

Tajinder Virk, Co-Founder and CEO, Finvasia Group and Dealing said at the launch,“Dealing was born from a simple insight: global investing isn’t a lack of opportunity, it’s the complexity and fragmentation that hold most investors back. Even today, around 90% of global stocks remain out of reach for individual investors. Dealing was created to remove these barriers, uniting global markets, opportunities, and assets into a single, transparent experience so investors can participate confidently and focus on long-term wealth creation.The global investing platform is a part of Dealing Investment Banking Services and it is going to revolutionize how investment banking is done. This is our first step of bringing investment bank to the masses.”

Backed by the Finvasia Group, Dealing Investment Banking Services operates within a robust global regulatory and compliance framework, including an FSC Mauritius Investment Banking LicenseCySEC regulation, and authorisation under the UAE Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA), alongside other international registrations. The platform’s fully-owned technology stack and direct regulatory licensing provide rare end-to-end control over infrastructure, compliance, execution, and data security, reducing reliance on intermediaries while enhancing transparency and investor protection. The group has been serving investors across 120+ countries. 

The launch of Dealing was marked at IFX Dubai Expo, one of the world’s leading global fintech and trading industry forums, reflecting the platform’s global ambition and institutional-grade foundations. 

Following its launch, Dealing will initially focus on expanding its presence across GCC markets, with plans to progressively scale into Europe, Africa (including South Africa), and other key global regions. As global markets evolve, Dealing will continue to add more assets, more markets, and broader opportunities. As investors increasingly seek international exposure across developed, emerging, and fast-growing markets, Dealing prioritises education over speculation, alignment over activity, and long-term wealth creation over short-term noise. 

With its launch, Dealing sets out to redefine what global investing should look like in the modern era: accessible, responsible, and built around the investor. 

Dubai , February 17 , 2026 :Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced the
working hours for all its services during the Holy Month of Ramadan
1447 AH / 2026. The revised schedules cover Customer Happiness
Centres, paid parking zones, public buses, Dubai Metro and Dubai
Tram services, marine transport services, and service provider
centres (vehicle technical inspection).
Customer Happiness Centres
Deira – Al Tawar Centre – Al Manara Centre – Al Kifaf Centre
Monday to Thursday
9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Friday
9:00 am to 12:00 midday
Customer Happiness Centre – Al Barsha
Monday to Friday
9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Customer Happiness Centre – Umm Ramool
Operates 24/7
Tasjeel Al Qusais, Tasjeel Al Barsha, Tasjeel Al Warsan, Al
Mutakamela Al Qouz
Monday to Thursday and Saturday
Morning period: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
Evening period: 8:00 pm – 12:00 midnight
Friday
Morning period: 8:00 am – 12:00 noon

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Evening period: 4:00 pm – 12:00 midnight
Note: From 4:01 pm to 7:59 pm, only technical inspection services
are provided.
Service Provider Centres (Vehicle Technical Inspection)
Monday to Thursday and Saturday
Tasjeel Jebel Ali: 7:00 am – 4:00 pm
Tasjeel Hatta: 8:00 am – 3:00 pm
Al Riyada: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
Friday
Tasjeel Jebel Ali: 7:00 am – 12:00 noon
Tasjeel Hatta: 8:00 am – 12:00 noon
Al Riyada: 8:00 am – 12:00 noon
Note: From 4:01 pm to 7:59 pm, only technical inspection services
are provided throughout the week.
Tasjeel Al Qusais, Tasjeel Al Barsha, Tasjeel Al Warsan, Al
Mutakamela Al Quoz, Cars Al Mamzar
Monday to Thursday and Saturday
Morning period: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
Evening period: 8:00 pm – 12:00 midnight
Friday
Morning period: 8:00 am – 12:00 noon
Evening period: 8:00 pm – 12:00 midnight

Dubai , February 16 , 2026 : Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced that the number
of users of public transport and shared mobility services in Dubai —
including Dubai Metro, Dubai Tram, public buses, and marine transport
modes comprising abras, ferries and water taxis — in addition to shared
mobility options such as app-based vehicles, hourly rental vehicles and
on-demand buses, as well as taxis operated by Dubai Taxi Corporation
and franchise companies — reached 802.1 million riders in 2025,
compared with 747.1 million riders in 2024, marking 7.4% growth.
The average daily ridership reached 2.2 million riders, compared with 2
million riders in 2024. Meanwhile, 23.6 million riders used premium
(limousine) transport services “not included in the total public transport
ridership”, compared with 19.2 million riders in 2024.

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The total number of trips across public transport, shared mobility and taxis
during the past year reached 167.3 million trips, including 120 million taxi
trips and more than 41 million shared mobility trips.
October and November recorded the highest number of trips, with 15.1
million trips each. October 2025 recorded the highest monthly passenger
volume, with 72.8 million riders, followed by November with 72.6 million
riders, and December with 71.4 million riders. Passenger numbers during
the remaining months ranged between 61 million and 69 million.
High demand levels recorded during the final quarter of the year confirm
stable usage levels across the public transport system during peak
periods, demonstrating the network’s capacity to accommodate increased
demand under consistent operating conditions. December recorded
slightly lower levels than October and November, reflecting changes in
travel patterns associated with the holiday season and year-end period.
Strategic Vision Success
His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director General, Chairman of the Board
of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), said:
“Sustained growth in public transport and shared mobility usage across
Dubai, which reached 7.4% last year, together with a 30% increase in
shared mobility compared with 2024, represents a structural shift in
mobility patterns. This progress underscores the success of RTA’s
strategic vision to develop an integrated transport system that serves as a
fundamental pillar of quality of life and supports economic development
across the emirate.”
He added: “These indicators represent the culmination of long-term
investments in infrastructure, smart technologies and the integration of
various transport modes. Public transport has become a central pillar of
sustainable urban planning and a key enabler of city efficiency,
strengthening its capacity to accommodate rapid population and economic
growth.”
High Operational Efficiency
Al Tayer further added: “The continued rise in demand across Dubai’s
public transport system demonstrates the network’s ability to operate with
high efficiency, supported by the seamless integration of metro, tram,
buses, marine transport and shared mobility services. The diversity of
options caters to daily mobility needs, providing flexible and safe
alternatives that serve different user segments.”

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“RTA continues to advance an intelligent, sustainable and integrated
public transport system by expanding metro, tram and bus networks,
enhancing the efficiency of marine transport, and supporting shared
mobility solutions. We are also deploying artificial intelligence technologies
in data management and in designing the customer journey, in line with
Dubai’s future aspirations as a leading global city and reinforcing its
position among the world’s best cities to live, work and visit.”
“RTA intends to expand dedicated lanes for buses and taxis during 2025
and 2026, including the implementation of six new corridors extending 13
km, increasing the total length of dedicated bus and taxi lanes to 20 km.
These lanes will contribute to a 10% increase in ridership, improve bus
on-time performance by 42%, and reduce bus journey times by 41%. We
are also studying a trackless tram project across eight locations in Dubai.
This advanced, autonomous and environmentally friendly system operates
on electric power and uses a virtual track guided by camera-based
detection of painted road markings. It offers lower costs and shorter
implementation timelines compared with conventional tram systems,” he
continued.
“Our strategic goal is to establish public transport as the first choice for
mobility in Dubai through continuous service quality enhancement,
expanded coverage, stronger integration across modes and improved
user services. We are building a flexible, safe and sustainable transport
system that keeps pace with rapid population and economic growth while
supporting Dubai’s journey towards more seamless and efficient mobility
and a higher quality of life for all.”
Usage Shares
Dubai Metro constitutes the backbone of Dubai’s public transport system,
accounting for the largest share of users across public transport, shared
mobility and taxis in 2025 at 37%. Taxis represented 26%, compared with
27% in 2024, marking a decline for the third consecutive year — a positive
sign of riders shifting towards public transport. Public buses accounted for
25% of total users.
Shared mobility services recorded sustained growth over the past three
years, increasing from 6.2% in 2023 to 7.5% in 2024, and reaching 9% in

  1. Marine transport modes and Dubai Tram maintained stable shares
    of 2% and 1%, respectively.
    This shift reflects continued growth in public transport usage, supported by
    improved service reliability and stronger integration between metro, buses

4

and shared mobility services, reinforcing the role of the public transport
system in meeting the mobility needs of residents and visitors.
The sustained increase in passenger numbers also highlights the impact
of ongoing system development and continuous alignment of services
with demand, particularly in managing peak demand and enhancing
mobility across all public transport modes.
Dubai Metro
Dubai Metro recorded 294.7 million riders across its Red and Green lines
in 2025, reflecting a 7% increase compared with 2024.
BurJuman Metro Station — an interchange station serving both lines —
and Al Rigga Metro Station accounted for the highest passenger volumes
during the year. BurJuman handled 17.8 million riders, an increase of
more than 1.5 million compared with the previous year, while Al Rigga
recorded 13.8 million riders.
On the Red Line, Union Metro Station recorded the highest ridership with
13.6 million riders, followed by Mall of the Emirates Metro Station with
11.2 million riders, and Burj Khalifa Dubai Mall Metro Station with 10.9
million riders.
On the Green Line, Sharaf DG Metro Station ranked first with 10.5 million
riders, followed by Baniyas Square Metro Station with 8.4 million riders,
and Stadium Metro Station in third place with 7.5 million riders.
High demand at these stations reflects their operational roles within the
network. Some function as key interchange hubs between lines, while
others serve major urban, commercial and tourist destinations. Several
are also integrated with bus stations and the wider public transport
network, enhancing accessibility and supporting daily mobility for
residents and visitors.
Ridership
Public buses carried 197.2 million riders last year, reflecting a 5%
increase compared with 2024.
Marine transport modes — including abras, water taxis and Dubai Ferry —
served 18.4 million riders, marking a 3% increase. Dubai Tram
transported 9.9 million riders, up 5% compared with 2024.

5

Shared mobility services — comprising app-based vehicles, hourly rental
vehicles and on-demand buses — carried 72.9 million riders, recording
30% growth.
Taxis in Dubai transported 209 million riders, representing a 4% increase
year-on-year. Meanwhile, premium (limousine) transport services served
23.6 million riders in 2025, achieving a 22% increase compared with
2024.
This distribution across modes reflects the integration of the public
transport system by providing multiple alternatives that cater to different
daily travel patterns. Public buses and Dubai Metro primarily serve high-
volume daily journeys, while on-demand and premium services
complement the network by covering short-distance or specialised trips,
enhancing flexibility within a connected mobility network.
It also highlights the system’s ability to accommodate growing demand
efficiently within a cohesive operational framework, supporting Dubai’s
continued progress towards more seamless mobility and a higher quality
of life for residents and visitors.

Dubai , February 14 , 2026 : Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has adopted inspection
standards to extend the operational life of delivery bikes, enabling the
renewal of bike registration for an additional year to continue delivery
operations. The measure reflects RTA’s commitment to enhancing safety in
this sector and supporting the sustainable growth of delivery services.
The comprehensive technical inspection standards, developed in line with
international best practices, will be applied on an optional basis through
designated inspection centres and via RTA’s website under the ‘Delivery
Bikes Operational Life Extension’ service. The process follows a clear
mechanism that ensures bikes are safe and suitable for delivery activities
before renewing their registration for the fifth year.
Khaled Mohammed Saleh, Director of Commercial Transport Activities,
RTA, said: “The delivery sector has recorded accelerated growth in recent
years. The technical inspection initiative supports this growth, enhances
service quality and customer experience, improves the safety of riders and
road users, reduces operating costs for companies, and increases
operational efficiency.
“The Delivery Bikes Operational Life Extension initiative strengthens the
governance of this activity and supports its growth and sustainability, given its
vital role in the emirate’s economy and in facilitating daily life for the

community. The rising number of delivery companies and bikes underscores
the need for precise standards to enhance service quality and improve safety
for riders and road users.
“In cooperation with the relevant entities and the private sector, we have
launched a range of projects and initiatives to support the sector’s growth.
These include dedicated stations and rest areas for delivery riders equipped
with service facilities, designated lanes for delivery bikes, and yellow number
plates exclusively for delivery bikes to enhance safety. RTA has also
developed charging stations and introduced additional initiatives to reduce
rider fatigue, improve road safety, and support the sector’s sustainable
growth.”
Simple Steps
Delivery companies operating motorcycles in Dubai can benefit from this
service through quick and simple steps. Companies can access RTA’s
website, log in using their corporate account, select the service, identify bikes
that have reached the maximum operational age, and complete the required
technical inspection at designated centres.

Dubai , February 14 , 2026 : Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced that
1,192,320 people benefited from 50 community initiatives
implemented during 2025, reflecting its continued commitment to
supporting various segments of society and fostering a culture of
giving and social solidarity, in line with the wise leadership’s vision to
advance social cohesion.
The initiatives comprised 50 community programmes, including 19
joint government initiatives and campaigns, alongside targeted
programmes serving low-income families, workers, People of
Determination and students.
These efforts were delivered within a corporate framework that
promotes social responsibility and volunteerism. RTA’s
encouragement of employee participation resulted in 599 employees
volunteering to support 17 initiatives and events, reflecting a strong
spirit of community partnership and reinforcing RTA’s role as an
active contributor to building a cohesive and sustainable society.
RTA affirmed that its community and charitable initiatives are
designed in accordance with global best practices to maximise
sustainable impact. They are guided by a corporate vision that
places people at the heart of development and reflects RTA’s
strategic objectives, vision and mission. The initiatives are also
aligned with the goals of the Year of the Community, which seek to
strengthen bonds within families and across society while promoting
a culture of participation and giving under the slogan “Hand in Hand”.

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As part of its support for national initiatives, RTA participated during
2025 in several government and community campaigns, most
notably the Fathers’ Endowment campaign. It also took part in
Ramadan in Dubai and Eid in Dubai initiatives, which reflect the
emirate’s social values and authentic Emirati identity.
RTA further commemorated Union Pledge Day and Flag Day by
decorating and illuminating prominent landmarks across the emirate,
including Dubai Water Canal, Tolerance Bridge and Infinity Bridge.
RTA also organised celebrations for the 54th Eid Al Etihad both
within and outside its premises, displayed national designs across
intelligent transport systems and metro and tram screens, and
distributed flags to metro station users.
During the Holy Month of Ramadan, RTA implemented a range of
high-impact community initiatives that benefited thousands of
individuals across various segments of society. The Meals on
Wheels initiative supported 8,000 workers, while 5,000 beneficiaries
received Iftar Meals through the metro station meal distribution
initiative implemented in cooperation with Noon.
In addition, 1,000 low-income families benefited from the Ramadan
Rations initiative, coinciding with Zayed Humanitarian Day. RTA also
collaborated with Dubai Charity Association to organise the
Ramadan Tent, which welcomed 500 beneficiaries, alongside
initiatives dedicated to supporting orphans and distributing Eid Al
Adha vouchers during Eid.
It further organised iftar meal preparation initiatives with the
participation of 241 volunteers, and contributed to six community
initiatives focused on meal distribution across several locations,
including Warsan in cooperation with the Islamic Affairs and
Charitable Activities Department, marine transport stations and
labour accommodations. These efforts demonstrate social solidarity
and reinforce a culture of giving and community responsibility.
As part of its efforts to enhance the inclusion of People of
Determination in society, RTA participated in the AccessAbilities
Expo, organised introductory Dubai Metro trips, supported dedicated
summer programmes, and hosted specialised community initiatives.
It also recognised the contributions of workers through the Workers’
Gifts initiative, which benefited 300 workers in appreciation of their
role in supporting the emirate’s development journey.

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RTA affirmed that volunteer participation is a fundamental pillar of its
community initiatives, with 599 volunteers contributing to the
implementation of 17 initiatives during 2025, reinforcing a culture of
participation, giving and social responsibility.

Dubai, February 12, 2026 : Union Coop held a press conference at its headquarters in Al Warqa City Mall in the presence of its CEO, Mr. Mohamed Al Hashemi, representatives from the Ministry of Economy, media, and department leaders, where it unveiled its Ramadan strategy aimed at supporting families and maintaining market stability.

The campaign offers discounts of up to 60% on more than 3,000 food and non-food products, including rice, oils, flour, sugar, poultry, eggs, dates, and fresh and frozen items, across all branches, the online store, and the ‘Tamayaz’ app. Prices of more than 160 essential goods have been frozen to ensure stability throughout the month.

Al Hashemi stated that the campaign falls under the UAE’s ‘Year of the Family’ initiative and aligns with national efforts to ease living costs during Ramadan. He added that Union Coop currently offers over 6,000 locally produced products and continues its price reduction and stabilization initiative launched three years ago, with product lists reviewed monthly based on demand.

The cooperative will also continue the ‘Your Iftar is Their Suhoor’ initiative for the eighth consecutive year to reduce food waste and promote sustainability. Additional efforts include blood donation campaigns with Dubai Health Authority and digital charity contributions through the ‘Tarahum’ platform via QR codes, supporting Ramadan food box distribution.

Under the ‘More Ramadan Blessings on Your Table’ campaign, running until 23 March 2026, customers who spend AED 150 and scan their Tamayaz account will enter weekly draws awarding 10 winners AED 1,000 each and monthly draws awarding two Jetour vehicles.

Union Coop will enhance the Ramadan shopping experience through app-exclusive offers, interactive digital features, in-store cooking sessions from 13–15 February, and Iftar-time distribution of dates and water.

The cooperative also continues strengthening food security through partnerships with more than 33 local farms and an international supply network, while maintaining delivery services to ensure convenience and reduce congestion.

Al Hashemi reaffirmed that the campaign reflects Union Coop’s ongoing social and economic commitment to supporting families during Ramadan.