Dubai, UAE – May 13, 2025 — In a bold step toward embracing digital innovation, Dubai has announced plans to allow residents and businesses to pay for government services using cryptocurrency. This landmark initiative positions the emirate as the first government globally to implement widespread crypto payments for public services.
The move was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the Dubai Department of Finance (DOF) and global digital asset platform Crypto.com during the Dubai FinTech Summit 2025.
Under the agreement, users will be able to pay government service fees using stablecoins and other supported cryptocurrencies via the Crypto.com app. The platform will convert the crypto payments into UAE dirhams (AED) in real time before transferring the funds to DOF accounts, ensuring price stability and regulatory compliance.
“This isn’t just a new payment method—it’s a step toward a sustainable and inclusive digital financial ecosystem,” said Ahmad Ali Meftah, Executive Director of Central Accounts at DOF.
The initiative is part of the Dubai Cashless Strategy, which aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33. The strategy aims to shift over 90% of government and private sector transactions to digital or non-cash formats by 2026.
Officials estimate that a successful transition could generate more than AED 8 billion annually for the local economy by reducing cash-handling costs, improving efficiency, and supporting fintech development.
The crypto payments will be processed through Crypto.com, a platform licensed by Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA). Using stablecoins tied to fiat currencies helps reduce the volatility typically associated with digital assets.
“We’re proud to work with the Dubai government on this pioneering project,” said Mohammed Al Hakim, President of Crypto.com UAE. “It’s a full-scale, real-world application of regulated digital assets—not a pilot or trial.”
Once launched, this payment model will allow customers to:
Pay government fees using supported cryptocurrencies.
Enjoy instant currency conversion with full transparency.
Conduct transactions securely through a regulated platform.
While other countries have explored crypto taxation or tested limited blockchain solutions, Dubai’s implementation marks the world’s first full integration of crypto into government fee collection infrastructure.
The agreement was signed in the presence of senior government officials, including Abdulla Al Basti, Secretary General of the Executive Council of Dubai, and Abdulrahman Al Saleh, Director General of DOF, who emphasized the emirate’s commitment to innovation and financial leadership.
Dubai, UAE – May 24, 2025
The National Center of Meteorology (NCM) has issued a weather alert for several regions across the UAE, warning residents of dense fog and soaring temperatures this weekend.
Dense fog formations have been reported in areas such as Ghiyathi and Bada Dafas in the Al Dhafra region. The NCM cautions that visibility may drop significantly in coastal and internal areas, particularly westward, until 9 AM on Saturday. Motorists are urged to exercise extreme caution while driving during these conditions.
Following the morning fog, the country is expected to experience scorching temperatures:
Inland areas: Highs between 44°C and 48°C
Coastal regions and islands: Highs between 40°C and 45°C
Mountainous areas: Highs between 35°C and 40°C
Despite the intense heat, the overall weather is anticipated to be fair, with partly cloudy conditions in eastern parts of the country. Winds will be light to moderate, ranging from southeast to northwest at speeds of 10 to 20 km/h, occasionally gusting up to 30 km/h. Sea conditions are expected to remain slight in both the Arabian Gulf and the Oman Sea.
Residents and visitors are advised to:
Avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours.
Stay hydrated and wear lightweight clothing.
Use sun protection when outdoors.
Drive cautiously during foggy conditions, using headlights and maintaining safe distances.
Staying informed about weather updates and adhering to safety guidelines can help mitigate risks associated with extreme weather conditions.
Dubai, UAE – May 24, 2025
Driving in Dubai does not only entail compliance with speed limits posted on signs but also familiarity with the grace speed margins that influence traffic fines. As of 2025, Dubai still retains the grace speed limit that provides drivers with a buffer over the posted speed before the authorities begin imposing penalties.
In Dubai, the buffer speed limit is the speed in excess of published speed prior to detection by the radar cameras. Typically, the buffer is 20 km/h to 30 km/h on a specific road. For instance, if a road is posted for 80 km/h, the radar only catches an offense at speeds greater than 101 km/h.
Below is a list of some of the roads in Dubai along with the speed limits and the thresholds for radar control:
Al Nahda Road : Limit 80 km/h. Radar Activated at 101 km/h
Damascus Street: Limit 80 Km/h. Radar Activated at 101km/h
Al Quds Street: 80 km/h. Radar Activated at 101 km/h
Sheik Zayed: 120 km/h. Radar Activated 141 km/h
Emirates Road: Limit 110 km/h. Radar Activated at 131 km/h
Mohammed Bin Zayed Road: Limit 110 km/h. Radar Activated at 131 km/h
Important to mention that some roads may have differing speed limits along sections of the road, with need to follow the instructions given by the signs.
Important Points for Motorists
Avoid Changes: Pay close attention to the information regarding the limit and grace margin as this can change at any given time.
Maintain speed: It is crucial to respect the limit provided and look for any alteration in the route taken.
Decreasing the Speed Limit: The grace gap is within the limit given, but not something that is wanted. If the higher distance to radar activation is met, anticipate fines to follow.
Being fully aware and awake, drivers will be in a position to ensure that they are abiding by traffic rules as well as ensuring Dubai roads are safe.
As we step into the second half of 2025, global financial markets are showing signs of transition. According to J.P. Morgan Private Bank’s mid-year report titled Comfortably Uncomfortable, investors should brace for potential volatility—but also be ready to seize emerging opportunities.
From shifts in global currencies to Europe’s economic comeback and AI’s rapid evolution, UAE-based investors can still build resilient, growth-focused portfolios with the right mix of strategies.
In a year filled with policy uncertainty, inflation concerns, and upcoming global elections, resilience is more than a buzzword—it’s a must. UAE investors may find value in:
Diversified hedge fund strategies: Offering potentially better returns than fixed income with reduced risk.
Equity-linked structured notes: Now used by twice as many investors in 2025 compared to last year, offering reliable income streams.
While U.S. markets contend with high valuations and political noise, Europe is accelerating thanks to strong infrastructure and defense spending—especially in Germany. UAE investors could consider reallocating part of their portfolio to:
European equities or mutual funds with a focus on long-term growth.
A gradual decline of the U.S. dollar, fueled by protectionist policies and increased fiscal spending, may present risks for dollar-heavy portfolios.
Alternative currency plays: The Euro and Japanese Yen offer stability.
Gold remains a safe-haven asset amid central bank accumulation.
With the dirham pegged to the dollar, UAE investors should consider partial exposure to non-dollar-denominated assets for added protection.
Artificial Intelligence continues to reshape global industries. In H2 2025:
Sectors like software and finance are showing real productivity gains.
Agentic AI is on the rise—poised to transform business models and slash costs.
UAE-based investors may benefit from exposure to AI-driven funds or local tech firms riding the innovation wave.
While traditional private equity slows, secondary market interest is picking up—allowing investors to buy into existing assets at potentially lower risk.
Evergreen funds, offering longer-term access and better liquidity, are also gaining popularity.
For residents and investors in the UAE, 2025 is shaping up to be a year of careful, globally-aware decision-making. Diversifying across asset classes and geographies while staying informed about AI, currency movements, and private equity trends can help preserve capital and unlock new returns.
💡 Tip: Work with a licensed financial adviser familiar with both international market dynamics and local conditions in the UAE.
The U.S. Department of Defense has formally accepted a luxury Boeing 747-8 jet from Qatar's royal family, intended for use as an interim Air Force One for President Donald Trump. The aircraft, valued at approximately $400 million, will undergo extensive modifications to meet the stringent security and communication requirements necessary for presidential transport.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed the acceptance, stating that the aircraft was received in accordance with all federal regulations. The Air Force has been directed to initiate plans for retrofitting the jet, although specific details regarding the modifications remain classified.
President Trump defended the decision, emphasizing the practicality of utilizing the gifted aircraft amidst delays in the delivery of new presidential planes ordered from Boeing in 2018. He noted that the Qatari jet would serve as a temporary solution until the new aircraft are operational.
However, the acceptance of the jet has sparked bipartisan concerns over potential violations of the U.S. Constitution's Emoluments Clause, which prohibits federal officials from receiving gifts from foreign governments without congressional approval. Critics argue that the arrangement could pose national security risks, including the possibility of embedded surveillance equipment.
Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani characterized the gift as a standard diplomatic gesture, denying any ulterior motives.
The aircraft's retrofit is expected to be a complex and costly process, potentially exceeding $1 billion and taking several years to complete. Despite the controversy, the Pentagon maintains that all procedures have been conducted in compliance with federal guidelines.
As the situation unfolds, lawmakers continue to scrutinize the decision, weighing the benefits of the interim solution against the ethical and security implications of accepting such a significant gift from a foreign government.
Dubai, UAE – May 20, 2025
As Eid Al Adha 2025 approaches, UAE residents are strategizing to maximize their holiday time. With the official public holiday spanning four days, many are considering taking additional leave to extend their break.
According to the UAE's public holiday calendar, Arafah Day is expected on Thursday, June 5, 2025, followed by Eid Al Adha from Friday, June 6 to Sunday, June 8. This provides a four-day weekend for most residents.
To extend the holiday, residents are exploring options:
Nine-Day Break: By taking leave from Monday, June 2 to Wednesday, June 4, employees can enjoy a nine-day break from June 2 to June 8.
Fifteen-Day Break: Taking leave from Monday, June 2 to Monday, June 16 allows for a 15-day vacation, utilizing nine days of annual leave.
Twelve-Day Break: Applying for leave from Monday, June 9 to Monday, June 16 results in a 12-day break, using six days of annual leave.
With the extended break, many residents are planning short getaways to nearby GCC countries. Destinations like Muscat, Jeddah, and Abu Dhabi are popular choices, offering quick escapes without extensive travel.
Dubai, UAE – May 19, 2025
Despite successive rent hikes, a significant number of Dubai tenants are choosing to renew their leases rather than seek new accommodations, citing cost-effectiveness and market dynamics as primary reasons.
Feedback from leasing agencies and property portals indicates that renewing existing rental contracts remains more economical for tenants, even with increases exceeding 10%. The expenses associated with moving—such as agency fees, relocation costs, and utility setups—often outweigh potential savings from new leases.
Rashed Hareb, CEO of Rentify, notes that nearly 90% of tenants on their platform opt for renewals, highlighting the financial and logistical challenges of relocating.
Six months into the implementation of Dubai's digital Rental Index, the rental landscape continues to evolve. The Index's star rating system allows landlords of newly completed properties to command higher rents, contributing to a rental premium in the market. Consequently, tenants find that staying put is often the more financially prudent choice.
With tens of thousands of new residential units expected to enter the market in the coming months, there is anticipation about potential shifts in rental dynamics. However, current trends suggest that landlords maintain leverage, with high demand and limited negotiation room for new listings.
Dubai, UAE – May 18, 2025
The UAE-India Property Show concluded its second day at the Millennium Plaza Downtown Hotel on Sheikh Zayed Road, witnessing a consistent influx of visitors eager to explore diverse real estate opportunities in both the UAE and India.
The exhibition showcased a wide array of properties, from affordable housing to luxury villas and commercial spaces. Developers from major Indian cities like Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Delhi NCR presented their flagship projects, attracting investors seeking lucrative opportunities.
Hameed Fayaz, Sales Manager at DP World, emphasized the significance of such events for market research and investment planning. He is considering a Dh2 million townhouse in Dubai, aiming to secure a Golden Visa for his family.
Sreenivasu Konda, Deputy General Manager at Aries Group of Companies, expressed interest in diversifying his investments by exploring commercial properties in Hyderabad. He highlighted the convenience of accessing firsthand information in a professional setting.
Shyam Agarwalla, Managing Director of Glaze Services, found the event beneficial for understanding market rates and new offerings, especially for his land holdings in Bengaluru.
Exhibitors enticed visitors with special discounts up to a million rupees, attractive deals, and even gold coins for UAE investors, enhancing the appeal of the property show.
Dubai, UAE – May 19, 2025
Residents across the United Arab Emirates are experiencing a gradual increase in temperatures, accompanied by foggy conditions in certain areas, according to the National Center of Meteorology (NCM).
Daytime temperatures are expected to range between 34°C and 38°C, while nighttime lows will be between 20°C and 25°C. These conditions are typical for this time of year, signaling the onset of the hotter months ahead.
The NCM has issued fog alerts for areas including Al Wathba in Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid Road, and Sheikh Zayed Road. There is a probability of fog or mist formation over some coastal and internal areas on Tuesday morning, May 20.
Light to moderate winds are expected across the country today, with speeds reaching up to 30 km/h. These winds may contribute to the dispersal of fog in affected areas.
Motorists are advised to exercise caution during early morning hours due to reduced visibility caused by fog. It's recommended to use fog lights and maintain a safe distance between vehicles.
Doha Metro & Lusail Tram has announced the launch of a new metrolink route, offering enhanced connectivity for commuters in the capital. Effective May 18, the M150 metrolink bus service will operate from Ras Bu Fontas Metro Station to Al Thumama 46, providing a convenient transport option for residents and visitors in the area.
The newly introduced route is part of the ongoing efforts to improve last-mile connectivity and make public transportation more accessible and efficient across Doha. The M150 route is expected to serve key residential and commercial zones, supporting daily commuters with seamless links between metro services and nearby destinations.
Passengers traveling from Ras Bu Fontas Station can now use the M150 service to reach Al Thumama 46 without the need for additional transport arrangements, significantly improving travel convenience in this corridor.
For more information and real-time updates, travelers are encouraged to use the official Doha Metro & Lusail Tram mobile app or visit the Doha Metro website.
Source: Doha Metro & Lusail Tram
As UAE residents plan their summer getaways to Europe, many may be caught off guard by a new expense: European tourist taxes. These fees, often added as “eco contributions” or “sustainability levies,” are increasingly appearing on hotel bills and even as entry charges for day visitors.
Experts warn that these hidden charges could add Dh480 or more to a family’s vacation budget. From hotel stays to cruise port visits, popular European cities such as Venice, Barcelona, and Rome are applying taxes to help manage overtourism and fund environmental protection.
Hotel guests, day-trippers, and cruise passengers may all be subject to different local taxes.
Common terms include: eco tax, clean air fee, sustainability charge, and sojourn fee.
Fees vary by city and are often not included in initial bookings.
Travellers are advised to research local tax policies before booking to avoid surprises.
Local governments argue that the revenue supports infrastructure maintenance and helps reduce the environmental toll of mass tourism. However, the lack of transparency around these taxes has raised concerns among tourists.
To avoid unexpected costs, UAE residents are encouraged to check local tourism websites or hotel booking platforms for up-to-date tax details at their destinations.
Here's a breakdown of some of the unexpected tourist taxes in Europe:
Venice, Italy: The City Access Fee, also known as a Day Visitor Tax, applies even to those not staying overnight. It costs Dh24 per person per day.
Balearic Islands, Spain: A Sustainable Tourism Tax is in place, ranging from Dh4.87 to Dh19.4 per night.
Barcelona, Spain: Visitors face a Tourism Tax, and cruise passengers pay a supplement. The tourism tax is Dh13.4 per night, and the cruise supplement is Dh14.6.
Ljubljana, Slovenia: An Environmental Surcharge, collected through hotels, is approximately Dh9.7 per night.
Amsterdam, Netherlands: Toeristenbelasting applies, and there's an additional charge related to air quality. The hotel tax is 7% of the room rate.
Dubrovnik, Croatia: A Sojourn Tax contributes to general tourist infrastructure, costing around Dh.7.31 per night
Vienna, Austria: A Local Levy (Ortstaxe) for tourism promotion and maintenance is 3.2 per cent of the room rate
Paris, France: The Taxe de Séjour varies with hotel star rating, ranging from Dh4.87 to Dh24.3 per night
Santorini, Greece: A Stayover Tax is tiered by accommodation rating, from Dh2.4 to Dh19.4 per night
Reykjavik, Iceland: An Accommodation Tax for a government tourism fund costs Dh 8.4 to Dh 16.86
Portugal (Lisbon, Porto): A Municipal Tourism Tax for local development is Dh9.7 per night
Rome, Italy: The Tourist Contribution varies by accommodation category, from Dh14.6 to Dh34.1 per night
Switzerland (Zermatt): The Kurtaxe covers air, view, and tourism costs, even for mountain huts, and ranges from Dh9.74 to Dh17.05
Germany (Cologne, Berlin): A City Tax or Culture Tax for local culture, museums, and events is 5 per cent of the room rate
Malta: The Eco Contribution for environmental protection is Dh2.44 per night, with a maximum of Dh24.3.
Source: Gulf News
The 'hair-flipping' dance - Ayyala, is a cultural performance by young Emirati girls, both rich in symbolism that express the nation’s heritage, unity, and hospitality. A cultural expert explained to Gulf News the significance of these traditions and their role in honouring guests and celebrating Emirati identity with dignity and respect.
The 'hair-flipping' dance - Ayyala, is a cultural performance by young Emirati girls, both rich in symbolism that express the nation’s heritage, unity, and hospitality. A cultural expert explained to Gulf News the significance of these traditions and their role in honouring guests and celebrating Emirati identity with dignity and respect.
Dubai: When US President Donald Trump arrived in the UAE, marking the first visit by a sitting US president in 17 years, he was received by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and welcomed with a traditional Emirati cultural performance.
One of the most striking moments of the ceremony was the traditional dance performed by young Emirati girls, during which they rhythmically tossed their hair back and forth.
This cultural display sparked curiosity online, with many people around the world keen to understand the nature and significance of the tradition.
Ahmed Bel Jafflah, senior presenter and protocol manager at the Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU), explained to Gulf News the symbolism and importance of the dances performed.
“The traditional performances of the UAE, such as the Ayyala dance and the local hair dance by girls referred to as Naa’shaat, are powerful expressions of the country’s cultural identity and values. The Ayyala, performed by men in two rows, is a symbol of unity, pride, and heritage – recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. It is more than just a performance, it is woven into the social fabric of Emirati life,” Jafflah said
Source: Gulf News
American President Donald Trump says he would like to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin “as soon as we can set it up”, during a business roundtable in Abu Dhabi on Friday.
“Let’s see what happens with Russia and Ukraine” Trump said referencing the Russia-Ukraine peace talks taking place in Turkiye.
The US president also told reporters his administration would have the situation in Gaza “taken care of” stating: “We’re looking at Gaza, and we are going to get that taken care of. A lot of people are starving”.
Wrapping up his Gulf tour, Trump said he had secured over $1.4 trillion in investment pledges from Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
The President now intends to return to the US to meet his newborn grandchild. Describing his tour as “incredible”, he said: “now it’s time to go back home. My daughter had a baby and I am going home to see that baby.”
Source: Arab News
The world’s top five tech giants—Alphabet, Amazon, Apple, Meta, and Microsoft—reported massive earnings and profits in the latest fiscal year. Collectively, these companies generated a revenue of approximately USD 1.887 trillion and a combined profit of around USD 403 billion.
Among the five, Amazon posted the highest revenue of USD 637 billion. However, Alphabet, the parent company of Google, earned the highest profit, totaling USD 100 billion.
Apple recorded a revenue of USD 391 billion and a profit of USD 94 billion. Microsoft followed with USD 245 billion in revenue and USD 88 billion in profit.
Although Meta earned the lowest revenue among the five—USD 164 billion—its profit stood at USD 62 billion, surpassing Amazon in profitability.
These tech giants operate several well-known subsidiaries, playing a major role in their overall business models.
Alphabet: Google, YouTube, Waymo
Amazon: Audible, Twitch, Amazon Web Services (AWS)
Apple: Beats
Meta: Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Reality Labs
Microsoft: Azure, GitHub, LinkedIn, Xbox
Analysts believe the surge in revenue and profit stems from strategic investments in artificial intelligence (AI), cloud services, and digital advertising. With emerging technologies like AI and the metaverse gaining ground, these companies are expected to see continued growth in the near future.
Source: Data compiled from Wikipedia — Big Five tech companies.
