GCC

Dubai, January 20, 2026: As part of its efforts to enhance quality of life and facilitate and simplify
procedures related to foreign driving licences for residents and visitors in
Dubai, Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) replaced 58,082
foreign driving licences during 2025. The replacements covered driving
licences issued in 57 countries, recognised for exchange with a UAE
driving licence, in accordance with ministerial decisions and memoranda of
understanding signed between the United Arab Emirates and the relevant
countries.
Sultan Al Akraf, Director of Drivers Licensing at the Licensing Agency,
RTA, confirmed that the list of countries whose citizens are eligible to
replace their driving licences with a UAE driving licence includes five GCC
countries, 38 European countries, 13 Asian and Latin American countries,
and one African country. He noted that the most recent additions during the
current and previous year include Kyrgyzstan, Kosovo, North Macedonia,
the State of Texas, and Croatia, reinforcing the emirate’s approach to
supporting international cooperation and serving community members of
diverse nationalities, in line with Dubai’s position as a preferred global
destination for living, working, and achieving quality of life.
Al Akraf stated that the driving licence replacement service is available
through RTA’s website or via Customer Happiness Centres across Dubai.
The procedures are completed by undergoing an eye test at one of the
approved vision testing centres, submitting the application, presenting the

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original driving licence to be replaced, and paying the prescribed fees,
provided that the licence is valid, and that the applicant attends in person.
He added that this step aligns with the UAE’s vision of delivering flexible
and efficient services and strengthening its position as a leading global
destination for working, living, and seamless mobility with ease and
comfort.
The full list of countries whose driving licences are recognised for
replacement with a UAE driving licence can be viewed through the service
link below:
https://www.rta.ae/wps/portal/rta/ae/home/rta-services/service-
details?serviceId=3704301
Top Countries for Driving Licence Replacement
By the end of December 2025, the United Kingdom (England, Wales,
Scotland, and Northern Ireland) ranked first among countries whose
nationals replaced their domestic driving licences with a UAE driving
licence, recording 13,165 licences. It was followed by the Republic of
Türkiye with 6,838 licences, and China with 5,300 licences.

Dubai,January 16: After the global success of their first collaboration, Binghatti and Mercedes- Benz have reunited to pursue a far greater vision, one that expands the boundaries of both luxury real estate and automotive innovation. Their partnership now returns with the unveiling of Mercedes-Benz Places | Binghatti City, the world’s first Mercedes-Benz branded city and the developer’s first masterplanned community, a monumental AED 30 billion development spanning more than ten million square feet in Nad Al Sheba.

The grand unveiling in Meydan delivered one of the most cinematic moments in Dubai’s real estate industry. Hosted by Hollywood actor Terry Crews, the night drew 25,000 guests the largest attendance at any Binghatti event to date,as a spectacular drone show lit up the skyline and the program unfolded around two historic reveal moments.

The first reveal was the exclusive Middle East showcase of VISION ICONIC, MercedesBenz’s newest concept creation, inspired by the golden era of 1930s automotive design and embodying the pure essence of the marque. The grand launch opened with a performance by legendary Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli, setting an unforgettable tone for the evening. 

The second reveal then unveiled the masterplan community, an entirely new urban district comprised of twelve architecturally synchronized towers. A sweeping drone show illuminated the Meydan skyline, followed by a laser projection across Nad Al Sheba tracing the outline of the twelve-tower formation, before a massive fireworks finale crowned the night symbolizing the scale and ambition of the vision.

The masterplan will be delivered in three phases, each unveiling a new layer of this cityscale vision. Across the towers, residences range from studios to 3-bedroom apartments, with Vision Iconic tower also featuring a collection of 4- and 5-bedroom homes. All of it is anchored by the development’s defining centerpiece, the iconic spiraling signature tower bringing to life one of the region’s most ambitious residential masterplans.

At the heart of the development lies the Grand Promenade, a vast green expanse imagined as a sanctuary of sustainable and environmental consciousness. Designed as a sequence of 12 unexpected moments and curated experiences, it features water elements, discovery zones, shaded groves, art pavilions, active circuits, and panoramic hills.

Surrounding the park, residents will also enjoy an elevated system of luxury signature amenities,12 Exclusive sporting clubs, and a network of grand indoor facilities, ensuring an unmatched  lifestyle throughout the entire community. Chairman Muhammad Binghattiemphasized the significance of this moment, noting that both brands have returned “not only to build upon the success of their first collaboration, but to imagine what the future of living can become when automotive ingenuity and architectural innovation converge at a city scale.”

Mathias Geisen, Member of the Board of Management, Mercedes-Benz Group AG, Sales & Customer Experience stated “With Mercedes-Benz Places, we translate the essence of our brand into holistic, customer-centric and connected living environments. This masterplan sets a new benchmark for exclusive, integrated urban living and represents the perfect alliance: the world’s most desirable living spaces, seamlessly connected with the world’s most desirable cars.”

Mercedes-Benz Places | Binghatti City, marks a new era, a world built beyond tomorrow, where mobility, architecture, technology and design function as one. This second collaboration between the two global leaders stands as a monumental step forward shaping not just a landmark development, but a blueprint for how the future of branded living in Dubai will be defined.

A month-long Longevity Fitness Challenge records over 31 million steps and awards 31 grams of gold

Dubai , January 16 , 2026: Biongevity Clinic, Dubai’s first precision and longevity-focused clinic, has successfully concluded its month-long Longevity Fitness Challenge, reinforcing its mission to advance active living, long-term health optimisation, and community-driven wellness across the UAE.

Held from 1 to 31 December, the initiative brought together individuals, wellness communities, and fitness advocates in a shared commitment to movement and sustainable lifestyle change. The challenge achieved a collective total of 31,059,643 steps, equivalent to approximately 23,667 kilometres, reflecting strong engagement and widespread participation throughout the month.

Biongevity Clinic specialises in personalised, data-driven healthcare models that prioritise healthspan—the number of years lived in optimal health—rather than lifespan alone. Using advanced diagnostics such as genomic and microbiome testing, alongside AI-driven data analysis, the clinic focuses on preventive care, chronic disease risk reduction, hormone optimisation, and holistic wellness.

Throughout the challenge, participants were supported by the Biongevity App, which provides AI-powered health guidance and real-time support for everyday health queries. The platform allows users to track health markers such as heart rate and blood pressure, book medical consultations, and access an integrated e-commerce marketplace for evidence-based health products. This seamless blend of digital care, AI intelligence, and wellness commerce enabled participants to remain informed, engaged, and accountable to their goals.

The campaign also generated strong digital traction, with more than 10,000 app downloads, highlighting the growing demand for integrated, technology-enabled preventive healthcare solutions in the region.

Conceptualised and executed by Biongevity Clinic Dubai and Dr. Anmol Kapoor, the initiative was supported by ARK MeetUps Events and Organising and delivered in collaboration with several fitness and wellness communities. Partners included At The Park Fitness Community (Dubai), YogaBears UAE & Global, The Yoga Ashram, Eternal Wellness Centre, and other fitness and lifestyle collaborators.

Collaborative events promoted movement, mindfulness, and outdoor fitness, including wellness sessions at The Yoga Ashram and open-space workouts facilitated by At The Park Fitness Community. These partnerships played a pivotal role in expanding the campaign’s reach and positioning it as one of the most impactful community-driven wellness initiatives of the season.

A key highlight of the challenge was the 31-gram gold giveaway, symbolising the enduring value of consistency, discipline, and long-term investment in personal health—principles central to Biongevity Clinic’s longevity philosophy.

Commenting on the initiative, Dr. Anmol Kapoor, Founder of Biongevity Clinic, said:
“This campaign was designed to demonstrate that longevity begins with preventive action and personal accountability. The response exceeded expectations, not only in participation but in mindset. Participants embraced movement as a daily priority and showed how community-led initiatives can drive meaningful, long-term health behaviours.”

Fredy Martins, Founder of At The Park Fitness Community, added:
“What truly distinguished this campaign was the level of commitment shown by participants. It went beyond a fitness challenge—people supported one another and adopted healthier routines. Partnering with Biongevity Clinic on an initiative so closely aligned with community wellness and longevity has been deeply rewarding.”

As demand for precision and preventive healthcare continues to rise, Biongevity Clinic remains at the forefront of longevity medicine in Dubai and beyond, offering advanced diagnostics, AI-powered health intelligence, and evidence-based supplements through a personalised, data-driven model. With its Dubai presence and globally relevant approach, the clinic is setting new benchmarks for how modern healthcare and wellness are delivered.

Dubai,January 16, 2026:
The winners of the Light Middle East Awards 2026 were announced on 14 January at Conrad Dubai, recognising outstanding achievements in lighting design, technology, and innovation. The awards ceremony coincided with the final day of Light + Intelligent Building Middle East, the region’s leading event for lighting and building technology.

Now in its 12th edition, the Light Middle East Awards are widely regarded as the largest and most influential lighting awards programme in the region, celebrating excellence across three main categories: Project of the Year, Product of the Year, and Partner of the Year. The awards honour individuals, projects, products, and organisations that continue to raise industry standards and shape the future of lighting across the Middle East and beyond.

The winners were selected following a rigorous evaluation process conducted by an independent panel of local and international experts, led by Martin Lupton and Sharon Stammers, Co-Founders of Light Collective UK.

Abdul Muhsin, Show Director for Light + Intelligent Building Middle East, said the awards highlight the vital role lighting plays in the built environment.
“The Light Middle East Awards celebrate outstanding lighting projects, products, and industry partners that have demonstrated excellence across the region and beyond. From restaurants and hotels to cultural landmarks and heritage sites, this year’s winners showcase the depth of talent within the industry and the critical role lighting plays in creating sustainable, high-quality, and well-designed spaces,” he said.

Project of the Year Winners

The Project of the Year – Middle East category recognised the region’s most exceptional lighting projects, selected from a shortlist of 17 entries. Winners represented a diverse portfolio of restaurants, hotels, places of worship, and heritage sites.

Awarded projects included Tête à Tête and Ronin at Five Luxe JBR, both designed by CPLD Lighting Design Consultants; Sumosan Bahrain by Into Lighting; Revolver Dubai by Studio N; and Maison Revka by Light & Lives. Additional winners included Shebara Resort by Light Touch PLD, Mama Shelter Dubai by Umaya Lighting Design, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Queen Hatshepsut designed by Barbero Light VBNB, and the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi by Studio Lumen.

The International Project of the Year, recognising projects outside the Middle East, was awarded to Licht Kunst Licht for its work on the Cologne Cathedral.

The highest overall honour, Light Middle East Project of the Year 2026, was presented to Desert Rock Resort, designed by Delta Lighting Design, after achieving the top score from the judging panel.

Product and Partner Awards

The Product of the Year segment showcased innovation across decorative, indoor, outdoor, and intelligent lighting solutions.

• Decorative Lighting Product of the Year: Bloomaire Kinetic Chandelier by Lumoconcept
• Indoor Lighting Product of the Year: Aperture by Fluxwerx Illumination
• Outdoor Lighting Product of the Year: Lumenfacade Max Opticolour+ by Lumenpulse
• Intelligent Lighting Solution of the Year: RCL for Nova by Luminii

The Partner of the Year award, recognising outstanding collaboration and leadership within the industry, was presented to iGuzzini. Meanwhile, the Peer Award, selected through public voting both online and onsite during the exhibition, was awarded to Fenos for Zhiwer WW.

Industry Platform

Held from 12 to 14 January 2026 at Dubai World Trade Centre, Light + Intelligent Building Middle East brought together more than 600 brands from 30 countries and featured over 140 international speakers and experts across platforms including the Smart Building Summit, THINKLIGHT Conference, and InSpotLight Stage.

The event and awards together reinforced Dubai’s position as a regional and global hub for innovation, sustainability, and excellence in lighting and intelligent building solutions.

Dubai , January 15 , 2026 : Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has signed an agreement with Emaar Properties to expand the Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station, significantly increasing its passenger-handling capacity in response to sustained growth in ridership, particularly during peak periods such as New Year’s Eve, national and religious holidays, and major citywide events.

Under the expansion project, the station’s total area will increase from 6,700 square metres to 8,500 square metres, while passenger capacity will rise from 7,250 to 12,320 passengers per hour, representing a 65 percent increase. Upon completion, the station’s daily capacity is expected to reach up to 220,000 passengers.

The agreement was signed by His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the RTA, and His Excellency Mohamed Alabbar, Founder of Emaar and Noon and Chairman of Eagle Hills. The signing took place on the sidelines of the Dubai World Project Management Forum, in the presence of senior officials from both entities.

Strategic Infrastructure Investment

Commenting on the agreement, Al Tayer said the project reflects the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to strengthen public–private partnerships in the development of world-class infrastructure.

“The expansion of Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station represents a strategic investment at the heart of Dubai’s urban core, where tourism and economic activity are most concentrated,” Al Tayer said. “The project underscores RTA’s commitment to proactive infrastructure capable of accommodating rapid population growth and increasing visitor numbers, while ensuring smooth mobility during peak periods and major occasions.”

He added that the station is one of the most important on the Dubai Metro network due to its proximity to Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and Downtown Dubai, making it the preferred access point for residents and visitors, especially during large-scale events.

Enhanced Passenger Experience

The scope of the expansion includes the enlargement of concourse and platform areas, installation of additional escalators and lifts, separation of entry and exit gates to improve passenger flow, an increase in the number of fare gates, and the expansion of commercial spaces to support revenue generation. The project also includes enhanced pedestrian bridges, landscaping works, and integration with public transport services and other mobility options.

Al Tayer noted that increasing the station’s capacity will deliver a qualitative leap in metro services in the Downtown Dubai area, ensuring the highest standards of safety, comfort, and operational efficiency, while supporting expected ridership growth through to 2040. He added that the station has recorded a 7.5 percent increase in passenger numbers over the past five years.

Investment in Quality of Life

For his part, Mohamed Alabbar said the expansion aligns with Emaar’s vision of developing integrated urban destinations centred on people and accessibility.

“The Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall district is not only a commercial and tourism hub, but the vibrant heart of a global city,” Alabbar said. “The expansion of the metro station represents a direct investment in quality of life and people’s happiness, reducing travel times and facilitating access to Dubai’s most prominent landmarks, particularly during peak periods such as New Year’s Eve and holiday seasons.”

He added that the partnership with the RTA exemplifies a successful public–private collaboration in supporting sustainable urban growth and enhancing Dubai’s readiness to accommodate rising numbers of visitors and tourists.

Growing Ridership

Since opening in early 2010, Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station has recorded consistent growth in passenger numbers. Ridership increased from 6.13 million passengers in 2013 to 7.25 million in 2016, rising further to 7.88 million in 2019. Passenger volumes exceeded 10.2 million in 2023 and reached over 10.57 million in 2024, with nearly 11 million passengers recorded in the most recent year.

Design and Accessibility

The architectural design of the station will remain consistent with the shell-inspired design of Dubai Metro’s elevated stations on the Red and Green Lines. Interior layouts will prioritise safety, clarity, and efficient passenger movement, while minimising walking distances and maintaining visual connectivity across spaces.

At ground level, station entrances will integrate seamlessly with public transport services and emerging mobility options, including bicycles and electric scooters. The design also ensures full accessibility for people of determination, senior citizens, parents with prams, residents, and visitors, reinforcing Dubai’s commitment to inclusive and user-friendly public transport infrastructure.

Dubai, January 15 , 2026 : The Project Management Institute (PMI) has been named an Organising Partner of the Dubai International Project Management Forum (DIPMF) 2027, following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).

The MoU was signed during the 11th edition of the Dubai International Project Management Forum 2026, in the presence of His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the RTA. Under the agreement, PMI will play a key role in organising and delivering the forum’s events and activities at its 12th edition, while also promoting the forum through PMI conferences held across Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa.

The agreement was signed on behalf of the RTA by Moaza Saeed Al Marri, CEO of the Executive Affairs Sector and Chair of the Organising Committee of the Dubai International Project Management Forum, and on behalf of PMI by Hanny Alshazly, Managing Director – Middle East and North Africa, Project Management Institute.

Commenting on the partnership, Moaza Saeed Al Marri welcomed the signing of the MoU, stating that it reaffirms the continuity of close cooperation between the RTA and PMI. She noted that the agreement reflects PMI’s commitment to serving as a strategic partner in the ongoing success of the forum.

She highlighted that the Dubai International Project Management Forum attracts a distinguished group of specialists and senior leaders from a wide range of disciplines related to project management and sustainability, adding that PMI’s long-standing expertise in technical and knowledge-based support has played a significant role in strengthening the forum’s reputation. She also underscored PMI’s contribution to fostering a culture of innovation and creativity, which continues to elevate the forum’s performance and global standing year after year.

Hanny Alshazly, Managing Director for the Middle East and North Africa at PMI, said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to long-term collaboration and capability building within the project management community.

“This agreement between the Project Management Institute and the Roads and Transport Authority reflects our shared focus on strengthening collaboration and building practical capability through long-term partnership. As co-organisers of the Dubai International Project Management Forum, we are building on a trusted relationship that brings together expertise, leadership, and real impact for the project management community,” Alshazly said.

The partnership is expected to further enhance the global profile of the Dubai International Project Management Forum, reinforcing Dubai’s position as a leading hub for project management excellence, innovation, and knowledge exchange.

Dubai, UAE | January 15, 2026:​ The UAE’s property market continues to emerge as a powerful wealth-creation engine for global investors who approach real estate as a strategic asset class rather than a standalone purchase, according to GPG Global Real Estate, led by its Founder and CEO Mr. Chirag Goyal, widely known in the industry as the Multiplier of Real Estate.

Industry data and recent market trends indicate that investors who entered the UAE real estate market with informed advisory support over the past few years have significantly multiplied their wealth. Following a property boom that began in late 2021, residential prices surged by 20 to 40 percent, turning many early buyers into high-net-worth individuals as property valuations crossed the million-dollar threshold.Demand for ultra-prime properties has also accelerated sharply, with sales of homes priced above US$10 million reaching record levels, positioning Dubai among the world’s leading luxury real estate markets. Investors are increasingly shifting from short-term, opportunistic buying to strategic, long-term investments, driven by lifestyle considerations, legacy planning, and capital preservation. Prime areas such as Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina, and Business Bay continue to attract sustained interest.“With global financial markets facing volatility, UAE real estate remains one of the most reliable avenues for wealth multiplication,” industry experts note. As a tangible asset class, completed properties in the UAE typically deliver 7 to 10 percent annual rental yields, among the highest globally. A Dh1 million property can generate Dh60,000 to Dh70,000 annually in rental income, while strategically structured investments can potentially deliver 30 to 50 percent annual capital returns, offering accelerated wealth creation.Speaking on the investment philosophy behind such performance, Mr. Chirag Goyal said,
“People often ask how investors consistently achieve exceptional returns. The answer is never luck. Wealth multiplication is the result of disciplined research, scarcity-driven selection, structured buying, and responsible exits. The market may call me the Multiplier of Real Estate, but that title comes with responsibility, not pride.”Dubai’s real estate sector closed 2025 with record-breaking transactions valued at Dh682.5 billion, marking five consecutive years of growth. According to Goyal, this performance reflects informed investor behaviour rather than speculation. “This growth is driven by understanding timing, supply dynamics, and long-term value. Our role is to guide investors with precision,” he said.He highlighted scarcity-based investing as a core principle, focusing on micro-markets with limited future supply. One such example is a commercial investment in Dubai Maritime City, where GPG Global Real Estate acquired an entire ground-floor retail strip at Dh4,000 per square foot, approximately 20 percent below market value. Comparable assets are now trading at Dh5,000 per square foot, with further upside expected upon completion.Another case cited was Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah, where the firm invested in full sea-view townhouses — an asset class representing only three percent of total inventory on the island. Acquired at around Dh6 million, valuations are projected to reach Dh12–15 million by 2028, driven by supply constraints and destination-led growth.Structured deals also play a crucial role in wealth multiplication. “Direct negotiation with developers, bulk acquisitions, and customised payment plans significantly reduce risk,” Goyal explained. He pointed to a recently secured 20–80 payment plan, where investors pay 20 percent upfront and 80 percent at handover after three years, allowing capital appreciation and rental income to cover future obligations.Several investor case studies underscore this approach. One investor seeking a modest 20 percent annual return achieved three consecutive exits within 18 months, each delivering approximately 30 percent gains, nearly doubling the original capital. Other investors, including industry professionals, have also entrusted GPG Global Real Estate with their personal portfolios.As Dubai enters 2026, experts caution that oversupply in select off-plan segments and tightening liquidity may challenge uninformed buyers. However, disciplined investors focusing on Grade-A developers, near-handover assets, and smaller, liquid units are expected to continue benefiting from market opportunities.Concluding, Goyal advised new investors to remain patient and informed.“Avoid fear-driven decisions, oversized assets, and developers without proven delivery records. Wealth multiplication happens when you buy right, not when you buy fast — and when you are guided by the right advisor.”

Dubai, January 15, 2026:​ AGN Skyline Developers has officially broken ground on Casa Aura, its latest residential development in Dubai South, marking a significant construction milestone and advancing the project from concept to execution. The ground-breaking ceremony signals the commencement of on-site works and underscores strong momentum as the development enters its next phase.

Casa Aura is a five-storey, low-rise residential project designed specifically for family living, spanning a total built-up area of 2,586.97 square metres. The development features a thoughtfully curated selection of modern apartments that prioritise comfort, functionality, and long-term value. The project reflects AGN Skyline Developers’ family-led legacy, characterised by craftsmanship, innovation, and attention to detail, delivered in collaboration with experienced architects, designers, and engineering consultants.

The ceremony was attended by the company’s leadership team, project consultants, and key partners, highlighting confidence in the project’s vision, construction readiness, and delivery strategy. The milestone reinforces AGN Skyline Developers’ commitment to quality-driven development and timely execution.

Commenting on the occasion, Mr. Abdul Ghaffar, Managing Director and CEO of AGN Skyline Developers, said:
“The ground-breaking of Casa Aura marks the beginning of an exciting journey. Our focus has always been on building homes, not just houses—spaces where families can grow, connect, and thrive. Casa Aura reflects our long-term vision of creating thoughtfully planned communities that deliver lasting value for both homeowners and investors.”

Strategically located within Dubai South, one of Dubai’s largest master-planned districts spanning 145 square kilometres, Casa Aura benefits from excellent connectivity to major destinations, including Al Maktoum International Airport, Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Hills Estate, and Mall of the Emirates. The project also enjoys proximity to Jebel Ali Port, Palm Jebel Ali, and Expo City Dubai, positioning it within a rapidly evolving residential and economic hub.

Designed as a complete residential community, Casa Aura places strong emphasis on lifestyle and liveability. Amenities include a padel court, swimming pool, fully equipped gym, jogging track, basketball court, open-air cinema, lounge and BBQ areas, children’s play area, and secure parking with CCTV surveillance. A spacious lobby and high-speed elevators further enhance the resident experience.

The residences feature open-plan layouts, expansive balconies, premium European finishes, integrated smart home systems, and fully equipped kitchens with high-quality branded appliances. Spa-inspired bathrooms, serene bedrooms with ample natural light, and refined branded fittings throughout create a sophisticated yet practical living environment tailored for modern families.

From an investment standpoint, Casa Aura offers a structured 22-month post-booking payment plan, with instalments aligned to construction milestones and a final 40% payment upon completion. The project is positioned to deliver strong rental yields and long-term returns, supported by Dubai South’s expanding infrastructure, rising residential demand, and investor-friendly ecosystem, including 100% tax exemption and on-site visa and licensing services.

For end users, Casa Aura presents an opportunity to own a well-planned home in a future-focused district offering connectivity, convenience, and a community-oriented lifestyle. With construction now underway, the project moves confidently into its next phase, reinforcing AGN Skyline Developers’ vision of creating enduring homes and building lasting legacies.