Sharjah Ruler approves 2026’s general budget of AED44.5 billion

Sharjah Ruler approves 2026’s general budget of AED44.5 billion

News 1 month ago

Sharjah , December 30 , 2025 : His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has approved the emirate’s 2026 general budget with total expenditures of approximately AED44.5 billion, reflecting a 3% increase over 2025.

The budget focuses on financial sustainability, economic competitiveness, and social welfare, while strengthening security and ensuring the sustainability of energy, water, and food resources. It aims to enhance government capacity to fund strategic projects, expand housing solutions for citizens, and develop a robust tourism infrastructure supporting cultural, recreational, and social tourism.

Infrastructure receives the largest allocation at 35% of the budget, followed by economic development at 30%—up 17% year-on-year—and social development at 23%. Government administration, security, and safety account for 12%, reflecting increased emphasis on institutional capability and public safety. Capital projects make up 35% of total spending, while salaries and wages account for 30%, operating expenses 25%, subsidies and aid 12%, and debt servicing 15%.

Public revenues in 2026 are projected to rise by 26% compared to 2025, driven by improved collection efficiency and digital transformation initiatives. Operating revenues represent 69% of total revenues, while tax revenues are expected to more than double year-on-year.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Finance Department, said the budget aligns with the Ruler’s vision and the Executive Council’s strategic priorities, aiming to enhance financial sustainability, efficiency, and competitiveness across economic, social, cultural, infrastructure, and tourism sectors. The budget also supports digital transformation, streamlined government services, and measures to reduce the cost of doing business.

The 2026 budget prioritises job creation, skills development, investment in human capital, and strengthening Sharjah’s position as a global hub for culture, science, and tourism. It is aligned with the emirate’s 2023–2030 financial plan and is designed to address global challenges such as inflation and economic uncertainty while safeguarding the interests of citizens, residents, and businesses.

مزاد الأرقام المتميزة الـ 120 يحقق أكثر من 109 ملايين درهم (2)

RTA’s 120th Distinctive Number Plates AuctionTops AED 109 Million

News 1 month ago

Dubai , December 29 , 2025 :

The total proceeds of the 120th open auction of distinctive vehicle number plates, launched by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) on the evening of Saturday, 27th December, reached AED 109,026,000, representing the highest revenue recorded in the history of distinctive number plate auctions since their launch. Plate number BB12 recorded the highest value at the auction at AED 9.66 million, followed by plate number AA25 at AED 8.04
million, plate number BB30 at AED 6.74 million, and plate number CC100 at AED 4.21 million. These results underscore the success of the strategy adopted by RTA in managing both open and electronic auctions. The strategy is founded on neutrality and transparency, while ensuring equal opportunities for all those wishing to acquire distinctive number
plates, which carry symbolic value for their owners. RTA offered 90 distinctive vehicle number plates, comprising two,
three, four, and five-digit numbers, from the codes AA, BB, CC, K, N, O, R, T, U, V, W, X, Y, and Z at its 120th open auction. The
auction took place at Al Joud Ballroom at Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City at 4:30 pm. Registration opened on Monday, 22nd December, with participants able to register through RTA’s website at www.rta.ae, Customer Happiness Centres in Umm Ramool, Deira, and Al Barsha or at the auction venue itself. Priority was given to
those who registered in advance. The sale of number plates was subject to a 5% value-added tax.
Participation in the auction required customers to have a traffic file in the Emirate of Dubai, submit a security cheque payable to RTA in the amount of AED 25,000, and pay a non-refundable participation fee of AED 120 at Customer Happiness Centres. RTA also enabled payment by credit card through its website.

UAE leaders congratulate Emir of Qatar on National Day

News 2 months ago

Abudhabi, 18th December, 2025 (WAM) — President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has sent a message of congratulations to H.H. Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Emir of Qatar, on the occasion of his country’s National Day.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai; and His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, dispatched similar messages to the Emir of Qatar and to Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Qatar, on the occasion.

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Crown Palace by Amirah Developments Emerges as a Timeless Architectural Landmark at the Heart of Dubai South’s Fastest-Growing District

News 2 months ago

Dubai, UAE — 18 December 2025 – Amirah Developments has officially unveiled Crown Palace, a distinguished new residential development in Dubai South, positioned at the heart of the city’s next major growth corridor. The project combines classical European architectural design with a prime location, offering residents both elegance and strategic connectivity in Dubai’s rapidly expanding southern district.

Spanning a region designed as a self-sustained ecosystem, Dubai South covers 145 square kilometres of residential, commercial, and aviation zones, alongside green spaces, schools, and retail hubs. Crown Palace is situated to provide seamless access to Al Maktoum International Airport, the city’s future global aviation hub, as well as Expo City, major roadways, and expanding commercial districts.

Muhammad Yousuf Jafrani, Founder and Chairman of Amirah Developments, said:
“Dubai South represents the next chapter in Dubai’s growth story. Crown Palace has been designed as a timeless architectural landmark in a district that is rapidly evolving into one of the city’s most desirable residential and lifestyle hubs.”

Crown Palace stands out architecturally, drawing inspiration from classical European palaces. The development features ornamental balconies, elegant arches, symmetrical façades, and handcrafted details, offering a unique contrast to Dubai South’s contemporary urban landscape. Interiors emphasize light, space, and balance, with high ceilings, expansive balconies, and warm neutral palettes that reflect the exterior’s elegance while accommodating modern lifestyle needs.

The project is designed to cater to families and professionals seeking spacious master-planned communities with access to green spaces, schools, and lifestyle amenities. Its prime location ensures connectivity to the district’s evolving infrastructure, including the airport expansion, new road networks, and future metro connectivity.

Crown Palace represents more than a residential offering; it is positioned as an architectural and cultural anchor in Dubai South, adding depth, heritage, and elegance to the district’s fast-growing skyline. As Dubai South continues to develop, the project is set to become one of the area’s most iconic and desirable addresses

IndiGo Operations Fully Normalized Since December 9, Airline Now Operating Over 2,200 Flights Dail

News 2 months ago

December 18, 2025 – IndiGo has successfully stabilized its operations across its network since 9 December 2025, initially resuming with over 1,800 flights. The airline has been gradually adding capacity and, as of today, operates more than 2,200 flights, fully aligned with its revised schedule.

IndiGo now serves all 138 operational destinations while maintaining its standard on-time performance. The airline emphasized that it continues to uphold the full integrity of its revised schedule, ensuring consistently reliable service for over 3.5 lakh customers daily.

“Having completely stabilized operations since 9 December, we have been carefully increasing our flight capacity while maintaining normal on-time performance, as per IndiGo standards,” said an IndiGo spokesperson. “We remain committed to delivering consistently reliable service to our customers across all destinations.”

Ras Al Khaimah Celebrates Five Years of Adventure with the Return of the Highlander Hiking Challenge

News 2 months ago

Ras Al Khaimah, UAE – 18 December 2025: The Middle East’s leading long-distance hiking event, HIGHLANDER, will return to Ras Al Khaimah for its fifth anniversary from 6–8 February 2026, bringing adventurers from around the world to Jebel Jais, the UAE’s highest peak. Organized by HIGHLANDER Adventure and supported by Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, the event showcases the emirate’s 94km hiking network across the Hajar Mountains, combining endurance, nature, culture and sustainability.

Participants will explore dramatic mountain landscapes, historic settlements and local traditions, with immersive camp experiences featuring Emirati cuisine, wildlife sessions and community engagement. The 2026 edition offers three formats: the 37km three-day HIGHLANDER Pegasus, the 25km two-day HIGHLANDER Orion, and the 13km one-day HIGHLANDER Lyra, catering to both seasoned hikers and first-time participants.

Aligned with Ras Al Khaimah’s vision for sustainable tourism, the event promotes responsible travel through “Leave No Trace” principles. Registrations for HIGHLANDER Ras Al Khaimah 2026 are now open, with participants receiving official finisher recognition and access to a celebratory finish experience upon completion.

Casagrand Unveils AED 420 Million Debut International Project at Dubai Islands

News 2 months ago

Dubai, UAE: December 2025: India’s leading real estate developer, Casagrand, has officially unveiled Casagrand HERMINA, a premium residential development located on the rapidly transforming Dubai Islands.

Valued at AED 420M, Casagrand HERMINA marks Casagrand’s expansion into the Middle East with a project that blends coastal serenity and city living. Inspired by Hermes, the mythological messenger who moved effortlessly between worlds, Casagrand HERMINA is conceived as a place where the calm of the sea meets the dynamism of Dubai, providing residents a lifestyle that balances retreat, tranquility, and connection.

Arun Mn, Founder and Managing Director, Casagrand, said: “At Casagrand, we have spent more than 22 years creating high-quality developments grounded in precision, timely delivery, and an unwavering focus on customer satisfaction. Bringing this ethos to the UAE is an important milestone for us, and Casagrand HERMINA encapsulates what we value most, a place where the sea brings calm, the city stays close, and life feels restorative, joyful, and connected.

“Our experience in thoughtful design and meaningful community living shapes every detail, and we’re excited to introduce this approach to one of the world’s most dynamic real estate markets. Ultimately, our goal is to continue to be the developer people trust with one of the most important decisions of their life – of buying a home.”

Casagrand HERMINA offers 131 residences ranging from one- to four-bedroom apartments, each crafted for privacy, openness, and elevated everyday living. Residences on every floor are thoughtfully spaced to ensure enhanced privacy, quieter corridors, and a boutique sense of exclusivity. With a starting price of AED 1.92M, a 60/40 payment plan, and completion scheduled for Q2 2028, Casagrand HERMINA brings carefully considered living to the heart of the city.

Strategically located within Dubai Islands, a major coastal district backed by government vision and investment, supported by the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. The area features 21 km of Blue Flag-certified beaches, major infrastructure upgrades including an eight-lane bridge to Downtown Dubai by 2026, and a planned Metro link. With extremely high demand showcased by almost 50% rise in transactions last year, and limited supply of prime waterfront locations as well as future-ready connectivity, Dubai Islands is positioned as one of the emirate’s strongest long-term real estate investment corridors.

Luthfullah K, Director, Dubai, Casagrand, said: “Dubai Islands represents one of our city’s most exciting long-term growth corridors, and it was essential for our first UAE development to be rooted in a location that reflects both our ambition and our values. With Casagrand HERMINA, we wanted to create a community that captures the balance people increasingly seek, spaces that feel calming and restorative, yet remain closely connected to everything Dubai offers. This development is a statement of our commitment to the market and Casagrand HERMINA is only the beginning of what we aim to contribute to the city’s evolving residential landscape.”

Casagrand HERMINA integrates advanced smart technology and eco-conscious design to create a healthier and more efficient living environment with smart home controls, eco-friendly materials, and a locally landscaped podium that naturally helps regulate temperatures.

The development is envisioned as a place where everyday life feels elevated, where wellness, leisure, and community are seamlessly woven into routine. Beyond its impressive range of amenities, from serene swimming pools and spa retreats to vibrant play areas, an immersive sky cinema, and tranquil meditation zones, every space invites you to slow down, connect, and experience a richer way of living while staying connected to the city. Fully furnished layouts, walk-in closets, and entry foyers in all units further enhance the sense of comfort and everyday ease.

Designed by the Casagrand in-house architectural team who have the experience of curating homes for more than 55,000 families, Casagrand HERMINA stands at the crossroads of tradition and transformation, where the vibrancy of the city meets the serenity of the shore. Each space was thoughtfully shaped to carry meaning for every family that buys a home at Casagrand HERMINA. From rooftop views to wellness zones, the Casagrand team were committed to creating a lifestyle that makes coming home feel restorative.

Casagrand remains deeply committed to long-term growth in the UAE and is currently exploring land parcels across major masterplans and emerging communities, with plans to develop over 6 million sq. ft. of premium residential and mixed-use spaces in the next three years. Casagrand HERMINA marks the first milestone in this strategy in one of the most prime waterfront addresses of Dubai, showcasing Casagrand’s design intelligence, build quality, and modern approach to lifestyle-driven living.

Lulu Further Strengthens Jeddah Presence ; Marks its Partnership with Cenomi by Opening its Fisrt store at Aziz Mall

News 2 months ago

Jeddah, December 15, 2025: As part of its ongoing expansion strategy in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Lulu Retail has opened its 72nd store in KSA at Al Faisaliyyah, Jeddah, marking its first store at Cenomi Aziz Mall. This also represents Lulu’s 267th store across the GCC.

The newly opened Lulu Hypermarket at Cenomi Aziz Mall offers a modern and convenient shopping experience, featuring a curated selection of high-quality products and reinforcing the brand’s longstanding commitment to affordability and excellence.

The new Lulu Hypermarket was officially inaugurated by the Chief guest, Mohammed Yousuf Naghi, President and Chairman of the Board of Jeddah Chamber of Commerce & Industry(JCCI) in the presence of Nasser Huwaiden Thaiban Ali Alketbi, Consul General of UAE in Jeddah; Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri, Consul General of India in Jeddah; Rommel A. Romato, Consul General of the Republic of the Philippines in Jeddah; Yusuffali M.A., Chairman of Lulu Group; Khalid AlJanahi, Chief Commercial Officer at Cenomi Centers and other dignitaries.

Spans over 10157 square feet, the new Lulu Hypermarket offers a wide range of products from groceries to household products. Shoppers can find everything from fresh produce, and bakery items to meat, seafood, health and beauty products, mobile phones and accessories, and home furnishings. To ensure hassle free shopping, Lulu also provides self-check-out counters and ample parking space with a capacity for 3000 vehicles.

“This new hypermarket enhances the shopping experience for customers while supporting local economic growth and creating employment opportunities in the region. As its 72nd store in the Kingdom, the opening reflects Lulu’s commitment to Saudi Vision 2030. Lulu continues to expand across key locations in Saudi Arabia and aims to open 100 stores to meet the needs of its growing customer base,” said Yusuffali M.A., Chairman of Lulu Group.

Also present on the occasion were Ashraf Ali M.A., Executive Director of Lulu, Mohamed Haris , Director of Lulu KSA and other dignitaries.

Dubai Chamber of Commerce Launches Bulgarian Business Council to Strengthen Economic Ties and Boost Mutual Investment

News 2 months ago

Dubai, UAE – Dubai Chamber of Commerce, one of the three chambers operating under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers, has announced the establishment of the Bulgarian Business Council. The new council aims to strengthen economic cooperation, promote partnerships between the business communities in Dubai and Bulgaria, and expand investment collaboration across diverse sectors.

The council’s first meeting was held recently at Dubai Chambers’ headquarters. Participants discussed ways to develop new business opportunities and advance mutual investments. The meeting also focused on strengthening the connections between Bulgarian companies and their counterparts in Dubai, exchanging expertise and data, and organising bilateral business events.

The launch of the Bulgarian Business Council comes as Dubai continues to reinforce its position as an international hub for Bulgarian companies and investors. Non-oil trade between Dubai and Bulgaria reached AED 777 million in 2024, recording annual growth of 5% and reflecting the strength of bilateral commercial ties. During the first nine months of this year, 54 new Bulgarian companies joined the chamber, bringing the total number of active Bulgarian members to 243 by the end of September.

Maha Al Gargawi, Vice President of Business Advocacy at Dubai Chambers, commented: “The establishment of the Bulgarian Business Council represents an important step forward in the economic ties between Dubai and Bulgaria. The council will help build stronger partnerships between our business communities, unlock new opportunities for joint investment, and support the continued growth of bilateral trade.”

In this regard, Mr. Milo Borissov, Bulgarian businessman and entrepreneur, stated, “I am delighted with the creation of this Bulgarian Business Council, which opens new avenues for collaboration between Bulgaria and the UAE. Together, we can explore and harness the potential of both markets.” Borissov is the founder of the PALMS WORLD brand and a managing partner in an international holding group, as well as a co-founder of the “Sport in Bulgaria” Foundation.

The Business Councils operating under the umbrella of Dubai Chamber of Commerce represent the interests of companies and investors from specific markets operating in Dubai. They work in close cooperation with the chamber to enhance bilateral trade and investments between Dubai and the markets represented, with the goal of developing robust long-term economic partnerships.

RTA Awards Contract for Sheikh Zayed bin HamdanAl Nahyan Street Intersection Development with AlAwir Road and Al Manama Street

News 2 months ago

December 14 th 2025:
In line with the directives of the wise leadership to enhance the
infrastructure of the road network and public transport systems to meet
the requirements of urban development, population growth, and improve
quality of life, Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has awarded
the Contract for Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan Al Nahyan Street
Intersection Development with Al Awir Road and Al Manama Street.
The project includes the construction of 2,300 metres of bridges,
expansion of lanes, paving of service roads along Sheikh Zayed bin
Hamdan Al Nahyan Street and Al Awir Road in both directions, and
provision of entrances and exits serving residential and development
areas along the corridor.
The project will increase the street’s capacity from 5,200 vehicles per hour
in both directions to 14,400 vehicles per hour in both directions—an
increase of 176%. It will also reduce travel time from 20 minutes to just
five minutes. Completion is expected in the third quarter of 2028.
His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director General, Chairman of the Board
of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority, said:
“Undertaking this project is part of RTA’s master plan to develop the
roads, bridges, crossings, and tunnels network to accommodate growing
traffic volumes, enhance mobility, and ensure smoother traffic flow across
Dubai. This plan supports the needs of urban expansion and population
growth. The project serves residential and development areas with a
combined population of residents and visitors exceeding 600,000.”
Intersection of Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan Street with Al Awir Road

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He added: “The project includes converting the existing roundabout into a
grade-separated intersection that enables free-flowing traffic movements
in all directions. The works involve constructing main bridges on Sheikh
Zayed bin Hamdan Al Nahyan Street with four lanes in each direction,
along with building ramps for right- and left-turn movements, each
comprising two lanes.”
“The project also includes constructing a bridge at the intersection of Al
Awir Road with Emirates Road to serve traffic heading towards Al Awir
and Sharjah, as well as developing parallel service roads along Sheikh
Zayed bin Hamdan Al Nahyan Street and Al Awir Road in both directions
to provide safe access points serving the surrounding development
areas.”
Intersection of Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan Street with Al Manama
Street
The Director General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors,
further explained: “The project includes upgrading the surface roads at the
intersection of Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan Al Nahyan Street with Al
Manama Street. The scope involves widening Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan
Al Nahyan Street from two to four lanes in each direction to increase
capacity and enhancing the signalised surface intersection to improve its
operational efficiency and expand its traffic capacity. The project will also
provide safe access points to serve the surrounding development areas.”
Completed Phases
The improvement of Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan Al Nahyan Street forms
part of RTA’s wider efforts, which began with the development of the
street’s extension through the construction of a four-lane road in each
direction over a 25-kilometre stretch, from its intersection with Dubai–Al
Ain Road to the roundabout on Al Yalayis Street. The works included
upgrading several intersections along the surrounding road network.
A grade-separated interchange was constructed at the intersection of
Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan Al Nahyan Street with Latifa bint Hamdan
Street near the entrance to Global Village for traffic inbound from Emirates
Road. A signalised roundabout was also built at the intersection with Al
Qudra Street, along with a signalised surface intersection at the junction
with Hessa Street. These traffic solutions represent interim improvements
that will be further upgraded in future through a package of final traffic
enhancements.

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The project also included improving Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan Al Nahyan
Street along the section extending from its intersection with Dubai–Al Ain
Road to the Academic City roundabout, covering about three kilometres.
The works involved constructing two bridges at the Dubai Silicon Oasis
intersection, each 120 metres long and providing four lanes in each
direction, with a total capacity of 14,400 vehicles per hour in both
directions.
A signalised surface intersection was also constructed beneath the two
bridges, comprising 20 lanes in all directions with a capacity of 8,000
vehicles per hour. These improvements were designed to ensure smooth
traffic flow towards Dubai Silicon Oasis and Zayed University, as well as
to enhance traffic movement at the Academic City roundabout.