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.
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 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.
President Donald Trump will head to the UAE on Thursday after visiting Qatar on Wedesday where was greeted with more pomp and ceremony on the second stop of his Middle East tour.
The White House said that Trump and Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani signed agreements that would “generate an economic exchange worth at least $1.2 trillion”.
The agreements are said to include a $96bn deal with Qatar Airways to buy up to 210 Boeing 787 Dreamliner and 777X aeroplanes, and a statement of intent for $38bn in investments at Qatar’s Al Udeid Airbase and other air defence capabilities.
A meeting is scheduled for later today of US, Turkish and Syrian officials to discuss details of Trump’s announced dropping of sanctions against Syria.
Trump’s three-country tour of the Gulf state region will conclude in the United Arab Emirates on Thursday.
Source: Aljazeera
As the United Arab Emirates (UAE) continues to position itself as a global hub for talent, innovation, and sustainability, it has expanded its prestigious Golden Visa program to include seven new professional categories. These updates, announced between late 2024 and early 2025, present outstanding opportunities for skilled professionals across a wide spectrum of industries.
The UAE Golden Visa is a 10-year renewable residency permit that allows recipients to live, work, and study in the UAE without the need for a local sponsor. It also provides numerous benefits such as:
Extended stay outside the UAE without losing residency (over 6 months allowed)
Sponsorship of family members, including spouses and children
Self-sponsorship for entrepreneurs, professionals, and creatives
Let’s explore the 7 new professions now eligible and the unique opportunities they present:
Educators in Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah working in private-sector schools can now apply for the Golden Visa. The program honors their contributions to improving educational quality and supporting students.
Eligibility Criteria:
Minimum 3 years of employment in the emirate
An advanced degree in a relevant field
Demonstrated positive impact on school performance
This move aligns with the UAE’s strategic goal of becoming a regional education leader.
On International Nurses Day 2024, Dubai announced Golden Visas for nurses employed by Dubai Health who have served for over 15 years.
This decision not only acknowledges their unwavering service but also helps address the growing demand for skilled healthcare professionals in the region.
Eligibility Criteria:
Employment with Dubai Health
Minimum 15 years of continuous service
Under Abu Dhabi’s Golden Quay initiative, luxury yacht owners and maritime industry executives can now secure long-term residency.
Eligibility Criteria:
Ownership of a private yacht measuring 40 meters or more
Senior stakeholders in the yachting and maritime industries
This initiative supports Abu Dhabi’s efforts to become a regional hub for luxury marine tourism and investment.
Dubai is now offering Golden Visas to eSports professionals, gaming developers, content creators, and other related talent under the culture and arts category.
Eligibility Criteria:
Minimum age: 25 years
Proven expertise in the gaming industry (player, developer, or influencer)
This initiative boosts Dubai’s ambition to become a leading destination for digital entertainment and eSports.
In April 2024, Dubai extended the Golden Visa to religious scholars, including imams, preachers, muezzins, muftis, and religious researchers who have dedicated over 20 years to community service.
Eligibility Criteria:
Minimum 20 years of religious service in Dubai
The move honors long-serving religious leaders and upholds the UAE’s commitment to religious tolerance and respect.
Dubai launched a dedicated support system for digital creatives through Creators HQ in early 2025. The Golden Visa now extends to:
Social media influencers
Digital content creators
Podcasters
Visual artists
Creative professionals in media, advertising, music, fashion, and more
This opens doors for local and international creators to grow their brands in one of the world’s most connected and forward-thinking cities.
In line with its sustainability vision, the UAE introduced the Blue Visa—a special 10-year residency for environmental advocates. Though named differently, it offers the same benefits as the Golden Visa.
Eligibility Criteria:
Outstanding contributions to environmental protection and sustainability
Recognized activists, researchers, NGO members, award winners, and industry leaders
This visa promotes eco-leadership and positions the UAE as a center for climate action and sustainability research.
With these new additions, the UAE is not just rewarding service and skill—it is strategically investing in talent that aligns with its national priorities:
Education and healthcare
Sustainable tourism and investment
Digital innovation and creative industries
Environmental stewardship
If you’re a professional in any of these fields, this is a golden opportunity—literally and figuratively—to build your future in one of the most dynamic and globally connected countries in the world.
Each emirate has its own application process and criteria. To begin, you can:
Visit the UAE Golden Visa Portal
Check with relevant local authorities (e.g., Dubai Culture, Ras Al Khaimah Education Authority, Abu Dhabi Maritime)
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.
