Author: Elle Houghton
The UAE unemployment insurance scheme has reached 90 per cent enrolment among the targeted workforce, and authorities have paid more than Dh350 million in compensation since its launch in early 2024, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation said. The ministry recorded the milestone at the end of 2025. Officials linked the high uptake to stronger awareness and strict compliance across the private sector. The scheme offers temporary financial support to insured workers who lose their jobs for reasons other than resignation or disciplinary action. Eligible employees can claim up to 60 per cent of their average basic salary from the six months before…
The global “Blue Zones” longevity model is shaping a new wave of green living in Dubai, as developers draw inspiration from the world’s longest-lived communities to design wellness-focused residential projects. The concept of Blue Zones was first introduced by Dan Buettner, a National Geographic Fellow who began researching longevity hotspots in 2000. His work identified five regions where residents live significantly longer, healthier lives: Okinawa, Sardinia, Nicoya Peninsula, Icaria and Loma Linda. In each location, daily routines naturally incorporate movement, social connection and strong ties to nature. Now, that philosophy is influencing high-end real estate in the UAE. Developers behind Keturah Reserve say the project reflects Blue Zones principles by…
Amid first-round matches and title ambitions, Stefanos Tsitsipas and Stan Wawrinka stepped away from the court this week to experience Ramadan hospitality in Dubai, joining an Iftar gathering during the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships. The two former Dubai champions attended the evening with Tournament Director Salah Tahlak, sharing a meal that marked the daily breaking of the fast observed by Muslims during the holy month. Tsitsipas’ parents also joined the dinner, which took place at a beachfront venue on Palm Jumeirah. For Wawrinka, a three-time Grand Slam winner and the 2016 Dubai champion, the evening offered a chance to connect beyond competition. “It’s about sharing…
The first phase of Keturah Ardh sells out, with all 558 luxury townhouse plots purchased within six months, generating AED1 billion in sales and signaling sustained demand for high-end residential land in Dubai. fäm Properties, the exclusive master agency for master developer MAG Group, confirmed the sellout on Thursday. The project ranks among the largest land releases in Dubai’s luxury townhouse segment this year. Buyers acquired all plots in the initial release, located in Al Rowaiyah First District. According to brokers, freehold townhouse plots remain one of the most limited asset classes in Dubai’s premium property market. As a result, competition for…
Public relations in Saudi Arabia is entering what industry leaders describe as a new strategic phase, with “reputation architecture” emerging as a defining framework for how institutions manage trust in 2026. As economic reforms accelerate under Saudi Vision 2030, communication leaders are moving from media outreach to the center of corporate decision-making. Abdullah Inayat, co-founder and director of W7Worldwide, argues that public relations in the Kingdom has shifted from a support function to a strategic discipline. In his view, organizations no longer measure success by media visibility alone. Instead, they assess how effectively communication aligns with leadership behavior, policy decisions and long-term…
Mohamed Bin Zayed University for Humanities has named 16-year-old Zayed Saif Al Mansoori as the first winner of the Outstanding Poet of Al Dhafra. The announcement marks the conclusion of a youth poetry competition designed to strengthen Arabic language skills and promote Emirati heritage among young people in the Al Dhafra region. The university revealed the results during a closing ceremony that honoured 15 finalists. Organisers selected those finalists from 54 participants aged 9 to 16. Throughout the competition, contestants performed original works before a judging panel. Al Mansoori secured first place after delivering what judges described as a standout performance…
The UAE National Orchestra has joined the World Association for Performing Arts (WAPA), marking a significant step in its strategy to expand international partnerships. The membership integrates the orchestra into a network of leading performing arts institutions from 22 countries across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and the Americas. The announcement follows the orchestra’s participation in the Beijing Forum for Symphonic Music. There, Managing Director Sheikha Alia bint Khalid Al Qassimi delivered a keynote address on the orchestra’s formation and artistic vision. The positive reception highlighted global interest in the UAE National Orchestra as a cultural institution that blends heritage…
The Abu Dhabi Registration Authority (ADRA) reported a 29% rise in new economic licences in 2025, highlighting the emirate’s growing appeal to investors. Growth spanned sectors, regions, and licence types, reflecting initiatives designed to simplify business operations and support entrepreneurs. Renewed licences also climbed 20%, while active licences grew 13.5% compared with 2024. In addition, ADRA introduced updates to expired licence registrations and added new economic activities, which helped entrepreneurs and investors navigate Abu Dhabi’s business ecosystem. Industrial licences increased 20%, tourism 10%, occupational 122%, professional 28%, commercial 28%, and agriculture, fishery, and livestock 12%. Geographically, Abu Dhabi City saw…
At 26, Mr. E.G., an ambitious Emirati, faced a life-altering road traffic accident. The high-impact collision caused a severe fracture with an incomplete spinal cord injury, requiring urgent spinal surgery in October 2025. His recovery journey, however, became a story of resilience and hope. After surgery, he entered intensive inpatient rehabilitation at NMC ProVita. Upon admission, he faced major physical challenges, including limited leg movement, poor sitting tolerance, and dependence on assistance for most daily activities. Nevertheless, his determination was evident from day one. A multidisciplinary rehabilitation team provided comprehensive, individualized care addressing his physical, functional, nutritional, and psychosocial needs.…
Huawei unveiled a new smartwatch feature at the World Health Expo Dubai 2026 to monitor diabetes risk. The tool uses non-invasive Photoplethysmography (PPG) sensors to track wellness patterns and deliver proactive alerts. According to the company, it is designed to raise awareness of potential diabetes risks and encourage early medical consultation. Globally, 589 million adults aged 20 to 79 live with diabetes, according to a 2024 International Diabetes Federation report. Meanwhile, 43% remain undiagnosed, and 81% of cases occur in low- and middle-income countries. In the MENA region, 85 million adults have diabetes—a figure expected to rise 92% to 163…