Latest from Arabian Business
Arabian Business
41 minutes ago
- Business
- Arabian Business
UAE airline flight suspensions: flydubai, Etihad, Air Arabia and Emirates travel update
UAE airlines continue to report suspensions and cancellations of flights as conflict between Israel and Iran impacts airspace and travel. UAE carriers Etihad, flydubai, Air Arabia and Emirates have all announced suspended flights and airports have issued travel advisories amid closed air space and disrupted travel routes in the region. Flights from the UAE carriers to destinations, including Iran, Israel, Russia, Jordan and Iraq have been suspended. See the latest travel news below and check with airlines and updates for live updates. Etihad suspends some UAE flights In its most recent travel update Etihad shared details of extended flight suspensions on key routes. It said: 'Due to the ongoing airspace closures and the regional situation, Etihad has suspended all flights between: Abu Dhabi (AUH) and Tel Aviv (TLV) until and including June 30 Abu Dhabi (AUH) and Amman (AMM) until and including June 20 'Guests transiting through Abu Dhabi to connect to cancelled flights will not be accepted for travel from their point of origin. 'Impacted guests are being assisted with alternative travel arrangements. 'This remains an evolving situation, and further changes or disruptions may occur. Etihad continues to monitor developments closely in coordination with the relevant authorities. 'The safety of our guests and crew remains our highest priority, and we regret any inconvenience caused'. Etihad also stated that flights between Abu Dhabi (AUH) and Beirut, (BEY) will be operating on June 21 with the following flights on a revised flight schedule for operational reasons: EY581: Departs Abu Dhabi (AUH) at 10am, arrives Beirut (BEY) at 1.10pm EY582: Departs Beirut (BEY) at 2.05pm, arrives Abu Dhabi (AUH) at EY583: Departs Abu Dhabi (AUH) at 2pm, arrives Beirut (BEY) at 5.05pm EY584: Departs Beirut (BEY) at 6pm, arrives Abu Dhabi (AUH) at 10.55pm Air Arabia suspends some UAE flights Air Arabia extended the suspension of flights to various locations until up to June 30. The prolonged suspension applies to flights from the UAE to at least seven countries. Air Arabia said: 'Due to the current situation and airspace closures, Air Arabia has temporarily suspended all flights to and from the following countries, as follows: Iran: Until and including Monday, June 30 Iraq: Until and including Monday, June 30 Russia: Until and including Monday, June 30 Armenia: Until and including Monday, June 30 Georgia: Until and including Monday, June 30 Azerbaijan: Until and including Monday, June 30 Jordan: Until and including Friday, June 20 'Several other flights are experiencing delays or rerouting as a result. Passengers connecting through Sharjah or Abu Dhabi with final destinations in any of the above flights will not be accepted for travel at their point of origin until further update. flydubai suspends some UAE flights Dubai's flydubai joined other airlines in extending flight suspensions. A statement from the carrier revealed an adjusted suspension timetable. Flydubai said: 'Due to the current situation and the closure of certain airspace corridors, flydubai has temporarily suspended flights to and from the following countries and airports until June 30: Iran Iraq Israel Syria 'Passengers connecting through Dubai with final destinations in any of the above countries or airports will not be accepted for travel at their point of origin until further notice. 'Passengers departing from or arriving at Dubai International Airport (DXB) are encouraged to check their flight status on for the latest updates. 'Please note that some other flights may be subject to delays or rerouting. 'We apologise for the inconvenience caused and appreciate your understanding. flydubai continues to monitor the situation closely, the safety of our passengers, crew, and operations remains our highest priority. Emirates suspends some UAE flights Emirates is still listing suspended flights on its website, with continued disruption to Jordan, Lebanon, Iran and Iraq journeys. The travel update from the Dubai carrier said: 'Due to the regional situation, Emirates has temporarily suspended all flights to: Jordan (Amman) and Lebanon (Beirut), until and including Sunday, June 22 Iran (Tehran) and Iraq (Baghdad and Basra), until and including Monday, June 30 'Customers connecting through Dubai with final destinations in Iraq, Iran, Jordan, Lebanon; and customers with onwards flydubai connections to suspended destinations will not be accepted for travel at their point of origin until further notice'. The airline added that customers impacted by flight cancellations should contact their travel agency for rebooking. Customers departing or arriving at Dubai International Airport were advised to check their flight status on for the latest information. Emirates said: 'We apologise for any inconvenience caused to our customers. We continue to closely monitor developments. The safety of our passengers, employees and operations will always be our top priority'.
Arabian Business
41 minutes ago
- Business
- Arabian Business
Qatar's economy to grow 6.5 per cent by 2027 on LNG expansion: World Bank
Qatar's economy is set to accelerate significantly over the next two years, with growth projected to rise from 2.4 per cent in 2025 to an average of 6.5 per cent in 2026–2027, according to the World Bank's Gulf Economic Update. The sharp rise in growth will be driven primarily by the North Field LNG expansion, which is expected to boost Qatar's liquefied natural gas (LNG) output by 40 per cent, transforming the country's hydrocarbon sector performance. While hydrocarbon growth is expected to remain modest at 0.9 per cent in 2025, the World Bank anticipates a major turnaround once the new LNG capacity comes online, cementing Qatar's position as a global energy leader. Qatar economic growth In parallel, non-hydrocarbon sectors such as education, tourism, and services continue to show strong momentum, supported by infrastructure investment and international partnerships. This diversification effort is central to Qatar's long-term economic vision. Key insights from the World Bank report: Qatar's economic growth: 2.4 per cent in 2025, rising to 6.5 per cent in 2026–2027 Gulf-wide GDP: Projected to reach 3.2 per cent in 2025 and 4.5 per cent in 2026 Non-oil growth across the GCC: Driven by structural reforms, investment, and private sector activity 2024 regional growth: Improved to 1.7 per cent, up from just 0.3 per cent in 2023 Despite the upbeat forecast, the World Bank cautioned that global trade tensions and potential economic slowdown remain risks for Gulf economies. To safeguard future prosperity, it urged continued focus on economic diversification, innovation, and youth job creation. Division Director for the GCC countries at the World Bank Safaa El Tayeb El-Kogali said: 'The resilience of GCC countries in navigating global uncertainties while advancing economic diversification underscores their strong commitment to long-term prosperity. 'Strategic fiscal policies, targeted investments, and a strong focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and job creation for youth are essential to sustaining growth and stability'.
Arabian Business
4 hours ago
- Business
- Arabian Business
Oman announces holiday for public and private sectors
Oman has announced an official holiday for public and private sectors at the end of this month. Sunday, June 29 has been announced as an official holiday for employees of the public and private sectors on the occasion of the new Hijri year 1447 AH. With Friday and Saturday being a typical weekend for many in the country, it means a three-day break, with workers able to rest from June 27 to 29. Oman announces Islamic New Year holiday The Ministry of Labour pointed out that employers may agree on terms to engage employees on the said holiday—if deemed necessary due to the nature of their work—provided they compensate the workers for the holiday.
Arabian Business
4 hours ago
- Business
- Arabian Business
Google's AI and digital tools added $5.9bn to UAE economy in 2024
Google has revealed that its products and AI-powered tools contributed an estimated AED 21.8bn ($5.9bn) to the UAE economy in 2024, according to its newly launched Economic Impact Report, conducted by Public First. The report highlights how platforms such as Google Search, YouTube, Maps, Play and Ads are helping people, businesses, developers and content creators thrive in the UAE's fast-evolving digital economy. Anthony Nakache, Managing Director for Google in the Middle East and North Africa, said: 'We're incredibly proud to be a partner in the UAE's boundless ambitions. The report reflects our investment in accelerating the country's ambitious journey towards a diversified, AI-powered economy. 'Through strategic investments, local partnerships, and our AI-powered tools, we're bringing substantial economic value and empowering individuals, businesses, and communities in the UAE.' Google 2024 UAE Impact Report key findings 1. Making everyday life easier Google services generated consumer benefits worth AED683 ($186) per month for the average person in the United Arab Emirates 63 per cent of UAE adults used Gemini, Google's AI assistant, with 90 per cent saying it helped them be more productive 71 per cent of users said Gemini is easier to use in Arabic than other AI chatbots 50 per cent of adults said Google Search is essential to their daily lives 89 per cent relied on Google Maps and Waze to avoid getting lost 90 per cent said mobile payments through GPay or GWallet made their lives easier 2. Fuelling business growth 91 per cent of UAE businesses use at least one AI tool in their workflows 73 per cent of people aged 18–24 use Google Search weekly for shopping or browsing 80 per cent use Google Maps and Waze monthly to locate local businesses 86 per cent check Google reviews before visiting a business 94 per cent compare product prices via Google Search monthly 97 per cent of public sector employees said Google AI tools improved workplace productivity 3. Supporting the creator and developer ecosystem AED455m ($124m) was generated in revenue by UAE-based developers via the Android App Economy More than 600 YouTube channels in the UAE now have over 1m subscribers—a 15 per cent year-on-year rise Over 430,000 people in the UAE have received digital and AI training via Google's Maharat Min Google program since 2018. 20,000+ journalists and journalism students have been trained by the Google News Initiative across MENA, including the United Arab Emirates The findings come as the UAE accelerates its shift toward a knowledge-based economy, with AI and digital skilling playing a central role in national development strategies.
Arabian Business
4 hours ago
- Business
- Arabian Business
OMNIYAT redefines Dubai's commercial landscape with the launch of ultra-luxury project
Dubai's iconic and constantly evolving skyline gets a new addition. Known for its artistic and visionary projects, OMNIYAT, one of the leading developers in the country, unveiled its latest project, Lumena, at the Museum of the Future. With a Gross Development Value of AED 3.6 billion, Lumena is the latest in a series of high-end developments by OMNIYAT. 'Lumena is the future of commercial real estate in Dubai. With its location, design, and integrated amenities, we are creating a new paradigm for commercial real estate that aligns with how the next generation of leaders want to work and live,' said Mahdi Amjad, Founder and Executive Chairman at OMNIYAT. Located on Sheikh Zayed Road in the Burj Khalifa district, at the intersection of Business Bay and Downtown Dubai, Lumena aims to offer executive-grade office space that caters to what OMNIYAT describes as the next era of business leadership. 'Sheikh Zayed Road, particularly the Burj Khalifa District, is emerging as Dubai's new power corridor and Lumena is designed to lead that transformation,' said Amjad. 'With Lumena, OMNIYAT isn't just observing the shift—we're defining the next centre of gravity for business in the city'. Ultra-luxury offices with panoramic views The tower comprises 91 shell-and-core office units across three categories: 59 offices (three per floor plate), 30 half floor offices (two per floor plate), and 2 full-floor offices. With an internal office area of 582,184 sq. ft. Designed with flexible floorplates, high ceilings, and floor-to-ceiling glazing, the building emphasises openness and adaptability. The structure features a series of cantilevered elements designed to offer panoramic views of Dubai's landmarks, including the Burj Khalifa and Jumeirah Beach. The building also integrates biophilic elements, natural textures, and airflow mechanisms aimed at enhancing the interiors. Innovation and sustainability are at the core of Lumena's design. The project is targeting multiple world-class certifications, reflecting its commitment to sustainability, occupant well-being, and technological integration, including LEED Platinum certifications, Platinum WELL Building Standard™, Platinum WiredScore, and SmartScore. 'Leveraging technology, innovation, and future-proof design, LUMENA's sculpted form reflects both architectural brilliance and the effortless flow of ideas, ambition, and enterprise. This exceptional project reflects OMNIYAT's ongoing commitment to shaping the commercial landmarks of tomorrow,' said Amjad. Luxury is incomplete without the amenities that follow. It's not just architecture that sets Lumena apart. Its amenities rival five-star resorts: a Sky Pool suspended above the city, an Executive Wellness Suite for elite performance and recovery, private lounges, concierge-run meeting rooms, and a Sky Theatre poised to host high-level forums and product launches, all signal a future where work and well-being are inseparable. A curated retail podium will also include fine dining, wellness services, and retail outlets aimed at both building tenants and the surrounding Business Bay and Downtown Dubai communities. Amjad said the launch of Lumena follows a growing demand for high-specification workspaces. 'At OMNIYAT, we follow the signals of global capital and regional ambition. The success of Enara confirmed a clear appetite for workspace environments that match the elevated lifestyle of today's decision-makers. Lumena is our answer to that, a tower crafted for the next era of business leadership'. As per Amjad, these developments are aimed at a clientele that includes senior executives, family offices, and innovation-driven enterprises. 'Clients that value discretion, design, and digital readiness. These are C-suite visionaries, family offices, and innovation-driven enterprises. At AED 3.6 billion GDV, Lumena meets a demand that's not defined by budget, but by belief in quality and long-term value'. OMNIYAT's latest landmark in Dubai The tower's location near Business Bay Metro Station and its proximity to Dubai International Airport (13 minutes by car) are key selling points. With direct vehicular access and over 1,000 parking spaces, the development is positioned for connectivity. 'Connectivity is one of the project's strongest USPs: we're at the nexus of Business Bay and Downtown, directly linked to the metro, minutes from the airport, and surrounded by Dubai's most strategic commercial, retail, and lifestyle destinations,' said Amjad. As Dubai continues to attract global investors, high-net-worth individuals, and multinational corporations, demand for premium office space with integrated amenities is increasing. OMNIYAT's recent developments, including The Opus and Enara, have tapped into this trend by offering commercial real estate that combines architectural design with lifestyle features. Lumena appears to be an extension of this strategy, emphasising design, wellness, and service. 'Lumena is more than a building, it's a vision sculpted in light, wellness, and future-proofed ambition,' said Amjad. 'It reflects the values that define OMNIYAT: precision, purpose, and pushing the boundaries of what's possible. As with every masterpiece we deliver, we're not here to follow trends, we're here to set new standards'. Lumena's architectural model is available for public viewing at Studio 12 at The Opus by OMNIYAT from June 19–22. Brand View allows our business partners to share content with Arabian Business readers. The content is supplied by Arabian Business Brand View Partners.
