Muscat , MaY 17 , 2026 : Data issued by the Statistical Centre for the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf revealed that the Council countries achieved a remarkable milestone in the field of immunisation, as the coverage rate for essential vaccines reached 100 percent during 2024, compared to approximately 84 percent globally. This reflects the efficiency of national immunisation programmes and the strength of public health systems in the GCC countries.

The data provided in the weekly bulletin issued on the occasion of World Health Day 2026 indicates that the GCC countries continue to bolster their leading role in supporting global health through investment in medical research and development, and by expanding access to affordable medicines and vaccines. This confirms that continuous investment in health infrastructure and the strengthening of international cooperation represent the cornerstone of Gulf health policies to achieve universal health coverage and ensure a sustainable healthy future for all.

In the context of supporting international health efforts, the volume of the GCC countries’ contribution to financing the health sector and medical research within Official Development Assistance (ODA) reached approximately US$842.7 million during 2023. This represents about 4.6 percent of the total international development assistance, providing a clear indicator of these countries’ commitment to enhancing global health and transferring medical knowledge.

The bulletin emphasises that these efforts come within the framework of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly the third goal concerned with ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages, with a focus on supporting scientific research as a primary pillar for improving the quality of health services.

Furthermore, the Council countries highlight their role as active partners in supporting developing nations by contributing to the development of health systems and enhancing their capacities to face health challenges, in addition to ensuring that essential medicines and vaccines reach various population groups.

Dubai , May 16 , 2026 : Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced that it
recorded 9,753 cases of random parking in urban areas and Right-
of-Way during 2025. The vehicles in violation were towed and
impounded at Lehbab Yard in line with applicable legislation. These
efforts form part of RTA’s drive to preserve Dubai’s urban and
aesthetic appearance by monitoring and addressing such negative
practices, while enhancing traffic safety within the road right-of-way
and ensuring safe mobility for motorists and pedestrians.
The inspection campaigns covered violations involving the misuse of
public parking, road and rail right-of-way encroachment, and other
forms of unauthorised use of the right-of-way. Such practices
undermine Dubai’s visual appeal and have a direct impact on traffic
safety and traffic flow within the road right-of-way.
RTA carries out regular inspection campaigns across Dubai,
alongside awareness campaigns on social media, to educate the
public about the provisions of Executive Council Resolution No. (54)
of 2021 Regulating Work in the Right-of-Way in the Emirate of Dubai.
These efforts reflect RTA’s priority of safeguarding the road right-of-
way, enhancing traffic safety, and protecting the assets of individuals
and organisations, in line with Dubai’s direction to promote quality of
life and support community happiness.
RTA regulates the towing of vehicles in violation in partnership with
Emirates Parkings, which is responsible for towing and impounding
vehicles and movable assets found in breach of applicable
legislation. The company applies strict operating standards, including
rapid response by arriving at the vehicle’s location within no more
than 60 minutes of receiving the report, as well as swift transfer by
completing the impoundment process within 24 hours.

2

Vehicles in violation are transferred to Lehbab Yard in Dubai.
Comprehensive insurance is also provided for vehicles held at the
yard against fire and theft, ensuring the protection of assets
belonging to individuals and organisations in line with the highest
international standards.

Dubai , May 16 , 2026 : TCL, a global leader in consumer electronics and the world’s No.1 Mini LED and Ultra Large Screen TV Brand (75”+)¹, has officially unveiled its 2026 SQD-Mini LED TV lineup in the UAE, introducing the new C7L, C8L, and flagship X11L during an exclusive media launch event in Dubai.
The launch marks a significant milestone for TCL in the region, bringing its next-generation SQD-Mini LED technology to UAE consumers through a lineup engineered to redefine brightness, colour purity, contrast precision, and the large-screen entertainment experience. Guests had the opportunity to experience first-hand how the 2026 premium TV range transforms movies, sports, console gaming, and everyday home viewing through dedicated interactive zones designed to showcase the full breadth of the new lineup’s capabilities.
“As the Global No.1 Mini LED and Ultra Large Screen TV brand, TCL remains committed to pushing the boundaries of premium display innovation. With the launch of our 2026 SQD-Mini LED TV lineup in the UAE, we are proud to introduce the C7L, C8L, and X11L to consumers across the region, delivering exceptional brightness, cinematic colour precision, advanced halo control, and immersive Audio by Bang & Olufsen across every premium viewing tier,” said Vic Shen, General Manager, TCL Middle East.
Advancing Display Technology with SQD-Mini LED
At the core of the new lineup is TCL’s SQD-Mini LED technology, representing a meaningful evolution beyond traditional QD-Mini LED. By combining a highly refined Mini LED backlight architecture with advanced quantum dot materials and proprietary panel optimisation, SQD-Mini LED improves the way light is translated into colour, enhancing both precision and stability across different viewing conditions.
Unlike conventional approaches that rely primarily on adjusting the backlight alone, SQD-Mini LED optimises the interaction between the blue Mini LED backlight, the quantum dot layer, and the colour filter system. This enables greater colour purity, improved light efficiency, and reduced colour crosstalk, resulting in a wider and more stable colour gamut, peak brightness of up to 10,000 nits and more than 20,000 local dimming zones in flagship models, deeper blacks with significantly reduced blooming, and more consistent performance across ultra-large screen sizes. The technology also delivers enhanced long-term panel durability without the risk of permanent burn-in.
A Portfolio Engineered for Every Premium Viewer
The 2026 lineup spans three distinct tiers, each designed to meet a different level of premium viewing ambition. The C7L SQD-Mini LED TV– (Brilliance brought closer) serves as the entry point into the new generation of SQD-Mini LED viewing, combining elevated brightness, rich colour depth, smooth motion with a 144Hz native refresh rate and a Game Accelerator supporting variable refresh rates of up to 288Hz, making it equally suited to sports viewing, gaming, and family entertainment. It is available in sizes from 65 to 98 inches.
Stepping up, the C8L SQD-Mini LED TV pushes performance further with TCL’s WHVA 2.0 Ultra Panel, enhanced dimming precision, stronger contrast depth, and Audio by Bang & Olufsen, complemented by a Virtually ZeroBorder design that maximises the screen-to-body ratio for a near bezel-free experience. Available from 65 to 98 inches, it is designed for experience, making it ideal for movie lovers, sports fans, and consumers seeking.
At the apex of the range, the X11L SQD-Mini LED TV represents TCL’s ultimate flagship vision. Combining breakthrough 10,000 nits peak brightness, over 20,000 local dimming precision, and the most immersive Audio by Bang & Olufsen, the X11L features a Virtually ZeroBorder design that creates a seamless, edge-to-edge viewing experience, supported by a flat-thin profile of approximately 2cm at its thinnest point in select models. Available in 75, 85, and 98 inches, it is positioned as a true statement piece in premium home entertainment.
Meeting the Evolving Demands of UAE Consumers
The launch comes at a defining moment for the UAE’s consumer electronics market. Demand for large-screen premium televisions is accelerating, with consumers increasingly seeking 75-inch-plus displays capable of delivering cinematic sports viewing, immersive gaming, and connected smart home experiences. As one of the region’s most dynamic technology markets, the UAE presents a natural home for TCL’s most ambitious display innovation, and the 2026 SQD-Mini LED TV lineup is strategically positioned to meet the evolving expectations of consumers who demand bigger, brighter, and more immersive entertainment.
With the launch of the 2026 SQD-Mini LED TV lineup, TCL continues to strengthen its position as the leading force in premium home entertainment, bringing the future of large-screen viewing to UAE consumers through a portfolio that spans premium value, flagship excellence, and the ultimate viewing experience.
The TCL C7L, C8L, and X11L are available across the UAE via leading retail and e-commerce partners. For availability and pricing, please visit https://www.tcl.com/gulf/en.

Dubai , May 16 , 2026 : IMAN Developers, one of Dubai’s leading luxury residential developers, has announced the launch of Oxford Cove, the newest addition to its signature Oxford Series, located in the heart of Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC). 

The development reinforces the company’s continued focus on design-led communities that bring together architecture, lifestyle, and everyday liveability. 

The project recorded a strong market response, achieving a Dh300 million sell-out within two hours of launch, reflecting continued demand from both end-users and investors in JVC. Rooted in the concept of ‘Nature Shaped Luxury’, Oxford Cove is designed as a calm, sanctuary-like residential address, where flowing architectural curves and natural forms create a more human and grounded living environment. 

The development comprises 247 apartments across B+G+P+5 floors, supported by more than 55 lifestyle amenities spread across multiple levels, reinforcing IMAN Developers’ approach to experience-led community living. 

As the first major residential launch of 2026 and the developer’s 12th project in JVC, Oxford Cove continues the architectural evolution of the Oxford Series. The design features soft curved façades, natural materiality, and open spaces that enhance light, movement, and a stronger sense of connection within the community. JVC has been a defining part of IMAN Developers’ journey over the years, and Oxford Cove stands as a reflection of the trust, consistency, and credibility we have built in this community. 

“The response we witnessed — with the project achieving strong demand and a rapid sell-out — is not just about one development, but about the confidence people place in IMAN’s track record. Today’s homeowners seek more than a residence; they want comfort, connection, wellness, and belonging. At IMAN Developers, we have consistently delivered on that promise. With Oxford Cove, we continue this philosophy — combining thoughtful architecture, meaningful amenities, and everyday functionality for modern living,” said Ismail Marfani, Chief Executive Officer of IMAN Developers. 

Residents will have access to a wide range of lifestyle amenities including swimming pools, wellness and fitness zones, kids’ play areas, social lounges, outdoor dining spaces, meditation decks, and relaxation zones, all designed to support a balanced way of living. Strategically located in JVC, Oxford Cove offers strong connectivity to key destinations across Dubai, including Bluewaters Island, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Mall, Expo City Dubai, and both international airports, while maintaining the calm, family-oriented character of the community. 

The development offers a diverse unit mix designed for end-users and investors, including studios, one-bedroom apartments, one-bedroom with study, two-bedroom layouts, and exclusive duplex units with private pools. Prices start from Dh679,000, with a flexible 50/50 payment plan and booking starting from 20 per cent. With its combination of design clarity, lifestyle focus, and strong location fundamentals, Oxford Cove reinforces IMAN Developers’ continued approach of creating residential communities that feel lived-in, not just built. 

Dubai , May 14 , 2026 : Nisus Finance Services Co Limited (NiFCO), a leading investor in urban infrastructure and capital markets, today announced its strategic expansion into the GCC region’s growing construction industrythrough its newly acquired subsidiary, New Consolidated Construction Company Limited (NCCCL),one of India’s oldest and most respected construction firms.

This expansion reinforces Nisus Finance’s continued focus on strengthening its regional footprint, with NCCCL representing a strategic extension of its capabilities in the construction and infrastructure space.It also marks NCCCL’s entry into the UAE at a time of renewed confidence in the country’s long-term development trajectory, underscoring NiFCO’s strong commitment to the market and continued investment over the past few years.

In September 2025, Nisus Finance Projects LLP acquired NCCCL in an all-cash transaction to strengthenits strategic foothold across India and the Gulf region. With an infusion of Dh31 million in primary growth capital, the deal reinforces NCCCL’s financial position and enables it to capture emerging opportunities across India’s booming infrastructure sector and the rapidly expanding real estate markets of the GCC, particularly the UAE.

The entry of NCCCL comes at a time when the GCC construction and transport projects market is experiencing a significant boom, with a total of US$951 billion (Dh3.49 trillion) worth of projects under execution and a broader pipeline exceeding US$2 trillion (Dh7.3 trillion), according to a recent report by the Middle East Economic Digest (MEED), driven largely by Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Key drivers include large-scale investments in housing, energy, utilities, infrastructure and long-term national visions.The UAE currently has over 7,000 contractor licenses, reflecting a rapidly evolving and competitive ecosystem.

“The entry of NCCCL into the UAE is aligned with the strong growth trajectory of the construction sector, which continues to expand with both established players and new contractors entering the market. Indian developers bring core strengths in premium development, legacy brand value, and execution excellence, positioning NCCCL to contribute meaningfully to the UAE’s economic growth,” said Dr. Amit Goenka,Chairman, NCCCL & Chairman and Managing Director, Nisus Finance Group (NiFCO).

“We see strong alignment between NCCCL’s capabilities and the region’s demand for speed, quality, and innovation. Our focus will be on creating differentiated value through disciplined execution and strategic partnerships.

“Our approach emphasises collaboration with government entities, efficient capital deployment and execution-led partnerships, including co-development models. The broader vision is to contribute to positioning the UAE as a global epicentre for infrastructure development, driven by public-private capital alignment; cross-emirate collaboration, and integrated infrastructure development.

“NCCCL’s focus areas include new-age infrastructure, such as advanced manufacturing, healthcare, and technology-driven engineering solutions. The timing of this entry is strategic, supported by active engagement with leadership across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Ras Al Khaimah and insights into the evolving construction ecosystem.”

NCCCL aims to deliver specialised solutions focused on special purpose assets, with initial delegate-level engagements already paving the way for stronger strategic partnerships.

Mr. Naushad Panjwani, Principal Advisor and Head of the Board, NCCCL, said, “The UAE presents a compelling opportunity, and NCCCL’s entry into the UAE marks a significant step in its international expansion, positioning the company to serve the broader GCC market. The UAE platform will function as a regional hub for NCCCL’s construction, infrastructure, and real estate capabilities, while also enabling cross-border investment and partnership opportunities.

“The UAE is not a market where success comes from presence alone- it is a market where success is built on dependability. NCCCL’s entry is anchored in that belief. We are bringing an execution-first approach, backed by capital discipline and a strong partnership mindset to a region that values consistency as much as capability.

“The platform we are building in the UAE is designed to be long-term and scalable, serving not only as an operating base, but also as a gateway to cross-border opportunities across the GCC. Our intent is simple: to build a reputation for delivering what we commit- reliably, efficiently, and at scale.”

Founded in 1946, NCCCL is among India’s longest-running Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) companies, with a track record spanning nearly eight decades. Over the years, it has delivered more than 200 million square feet of projects across residential, commercial, IT parks, hospitals, industrial facilities, and data centres. With an active order book valued at over Dh1.15 billion, NCCCL has consistently worked with some of the most prominent developers and corporations in India, including Prestige Group, L&T, Phoenix Mills and Bagmane Developers. 

NCCCL brings a differentiated combination of proven execution capabilities and over seven decades of experience in complex construction and infrastructure projects, complimented by a strong focus on timelines, quality, and cost efficiency, as well as experience in working across diverse stakeholders and project environments. The company also maintains a strategic focus on emerging asset classes such asdata centres and specialised infrastructure, positioning itself as a reliable, value-driven partner in the region focused on long-term relationships and disciplined growth.

NCCCL’s UAE presence is envisaged as a long-term platform to participate in infrastructure and real estate opportunities across the GCC, build strategic partnerships with regional and global stakeholders, facilitate cross-border collaborations, particularly between India and the Middle East and deliver projects with a focus on efficiency, innovation, and sustainability.

“The UAE represents a natural extension of our strategic vision. It offers a unique combination of scale, ambition, and execution excellence. Our intent is to build a long-term, credible presence that contributes meaningfully to the region’s growth while strengthening cross-border economic linkages,” Mr. Naushad Panjwani added.

NCCCL will adopt a phased approach to its UAE expansion, prioritising partnerships, sector-focused participation, and a robust governance framework to ensure sustainable and scalable growth across the GCC.

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

Eid Al Adha programme opens year-long line-up featuring Magic Phil, Goldilocks, Aladdin and The Wizard of Oz

Sharjah , May 14 , 2026 : Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) has announced the launch of the 2026 live family theatre season at Masrah Al Qasba, unveiling a year-long programme of stage productions set to run through December at Al Qasba.

Opening during the Eid Al Adha holidays, the new season will feature a mix of classic fairytales, interactive performances and family-friendly entertainment aimed at audiences of all ages.

The programme begins with Magic Phil: Staying Silly at Sea, running from 27 to 30 May in English. The interactive comedy and magic performance will take audiences on an imaginative nautical adventure filled with illusions, humour and audience participation. Performances will take place daily at 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM, with tickets priced at AED 55.

Following the summer break, Goldilocks & Magic Phil’s Back to School will take the stage from 27 to 30 August. The production reimagines the classic Goldilocks and the Three Bears tale with Magic Phil’s signature comedy and magical twists. Tickets are priced at AED 49.

In October, audiences can look forward to Aladdin, scheduled from 1 to 4 October. The production will bring the beloved Arabian fairytale to life through vibrant performances, themed sets and high-energy storytelling as Aladdin embarks on an adventure with the Genie and Princess Jasmine while facing the villainous Jafar.

The season concludes in December with The Wizard of Oz, running from 4 to 6 December. Families will follow Dorothy and her companions along the yellow brick road in a theatrical journey centred on friendship, courage and discovery.

Commenting on the new season, Khalid Al Ali said:

“At Al Qasba, we are committed to creating engaging cultural experiences that bring families together and celebrate the joy of storytelling. The 2026 theatre season reflects our ongoing efforts to support Sharjah’s vision of nurturing creativity and enriching community life through accessible, high-quality entertainment.”

He added that the programme aims to reinforce Al Qasba’s position as a leading destination for family entertainment and cultural engagement in Sharjah.

All productions will feature two daily performances at 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM.

For the complete theatre schedule and ticket information, visit Discover Shurooq Events Page.

Abudhabi , May 14 , 2026 : In light of Nissan’s recently announced long-term strategic
vision, “Mobility Intelligence for Everyday Life, Irfan Tansel, Chief Executive Officer of Al
Masaood Automobiles, the authorised distributor for Nissan and INFINITI in Abu Dhabi, Al
Ain, and the Al Dhafra region, has welcomed the brand’s forward-looking vision, describing
it as a direction closely aligned with the expectations of customers in the UAE.

The vision sets out a significant shift in how Nissan approaches its global product portfolio,
streamlining its model lineup and expanding powertrain options across each, giving
customers greater choice while concentrating investment in models and technologies that
matter most. Alongside an increased focus on AI-driven vehicle intelligence, electrification
sits at the heart of the direction, with Nissan’s e-POWER series hybrid system, which delivers
electric motor-driven performance without the need to charge.

In its announcement, Nissan identified the Middle East as a priority growth and profit market,
citing strong demand for large SUVs and premium vehicles as closely aligned with the
brand’s strengths. Key models underpinning that direction include the X-Trail Hybrid e-
POWER and, in the premium segment, the all-new 2027 INFINITI QX65 SUV, the first of
the new INFINITI models planned under the vision.

For Al Masaood Automobiles, Nissan’s vision reflects a broader shift that is already shaping
how customers in the UAE think about their vehicles. Drivers today are more informed, more
connected, and more deliberate in what they expect from a car; not just in how it performs,
but in how it fits into their daily lives. Keeping pace with those evolving expectations and
ensuring customers have access to innovative mobility and support to meet them, sits at the
centre of how Al Masaood Automobiles approaches its role in this market.

“Customer expectations in this market have evolved considerably, and they will continue to
do so. People want vehicles that are intelligent, capable, and genuinely relevant to how they
live – and that is precisely what Nissan’s vision is built around. Our commitment, as it has

Press Release
always been, is to ensure that progress reaches our customers in a way that is accessible and
well supported,” Tansel said.

With more than five decades of presence in Abu Dhabi, Tansel reaffirmed Al Masaood
Automobiles’ commitment to working alongside Nissan as the vision takes shape, noting its
alignment with the UAE’s broader ambitions in intelligent mobility.