Latest from Hi Dubai
Hi Dubai
2 hours ago
- Business
- Hi Dubai
MBRSG Launches UAE Economic Diplomacy Report at Public Administration Forum
The Mohammed Bin Rashid School of Government (MBRSG) has unveiled the UAE Economic Diplomacy Report 2024–2025 at its fifth Public Administration Forum, spotlighting the country's growing global influence through data-driven policy, trade, and international collaboration. Held at the Dubai World Trade Centre, the forum gathered diplomats, economists, and policymakers to explore the UAE's evolving economic diplomacy strategies. This year's edition, themed 'Strategic Horizons,' marked the report's official launch, jointly developed by MBRSG and the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy (AGDA), with input from global and local experts. Dr. Ali bin Sebaa Al Marri, Executive President of MBRSG, described the forum as a platform for shaping a forward-thinking approach to economic diplomacy. 'The report showcases the UAE's growing global presence through indicators on investment, sovereign wealth funds and economic partnerships,' he said. The report details key components of the UAE's economic outreach, including its 24 Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (16 already in effect), rising foreign direct investment, and the role of sovereign wealth funds like ADIA and Mubadala. It also examines the integration of digital economy tools and climate diplomacy into foreign policy frameworks. Notable figures show FDI inflows reaching US$30.7 billion in 2023, AED835 billion in non-oil trade in Q1 2025, and non-oil exports making up 21% of total trade. The UAE's GDP hit AED1.77 trillion in 2024, with 75.5% coming from the non-oil sector. AGDA's Deputy Director-General Dr. Mohammed Ibrahim Al Dhaheri emphasized the broader vision behind these numbers, stating, 'Economic choices today form part of a broader national narrative.' The forum featured discussions on CEPAs, foreign aid, sovereign wealth, and policy integration, concluding with a collaborative dialogue session aimed at strengthening cross-sector partnerships for future-ready economic diplomacy. News Source: Emirates News Agency
Hi Dubai
2 hours ago
- Business
- Hi Dubai
Dubai Summer Surprises 2025 Launches with Citywide Offers and Entertainment
Dubai is set to transform into a vibrant hub of retail, entertainment, and family fun as the 28th edition of Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) returns from 27 June to 31 August 2025. Spanning 66 days, the citywide festival promises thousands of unbeatable deals, thrilling experiences, and live events across the emirate. Organised by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), this year's DSS is billed as the most value-packed yet. The summer-long celebration will feature more than 800 brands and 3,000 retailers offering exclusive promotions, along with raffles, concerts, dining experiences, and family-friendly attractions. The full calendar was unveiled at a press preview held at the iconic Jumeirah Beach Hotel. Attendees were given a first look at new activations and returning favourites designed to cater to every age, budget, and interest. Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of DFRE, said DSS 2025 strengthens Dubai's position as a leading global destination by uniting the city's key tourism pillars—retail, hospitality, gastronomy, and entertainment—into one immersive season. The DSS Sales Season kicks off on the opening weekend with Summer Holiday Offers, launching citywide discounts and mall activations. With three themed shopping seasons introduced this year, the festival offers something for every shopper and visitor. Now in its 28th year, DSS continues to support Dubai's D33 economic agenda, reinforcing the city's reputation as one of the world's best places to live, work, and visit. News Source: Emirates News Agency
Hi Dubai
2 hours ago
- Automotive
- Hi Dubai
Dubai Wins Bid to Host Global Public Transport Summit 2026
Dubai has been officially selected to host the Global Public Transport Summit in 2026, marking its second time as host following its debut in 2011. The announcement came during this year's summit in Hamburg, Germany, where Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) received the official hosting flag from the International Association of Public Transport (UITP). Led by Director-General Mattar Al Tayer, the RTA delegation showcased Dubai's advancements in sustainable and smart mobility. The summit gathered over 1,900 participants from more than 100 countries and featured 300 speakers across 80 panels, alongside a major transport exhibition. In a significant move, RTA signed four agreements to procure 637 low-emission buses worth AED1.1 billion. Set for delivery in 2025 and 2026, the fleet includes 40 electric buses—marking the UAE's largest and first-of-its-kind order. The new buses, built to Euro 6 standards, feature smart systems, inclusive design, and enhanced safety technologies. Suppliers include Volvo, MAN, Zhongtong Bus, and Anadolu Isuzu, with an MoU signed with China's BYD to trial a high-tech electric bus in Dubai. The initiative supports RTA's goal of a fully electric and hydrogen-powered fleet by 2050. RTA also presented key projects such as the Aerial Taxi, Dubai Metro Blue Line, 3D-printed electric abras, and a biometric fare system, underscoring Dubai's position as a global hub for next-generation mobility. News Source: Emirates News Agency
Hi Dubai
2 hours ago
- Business
- Hi Dubai
New Green Term Loan Secured for Galadari Sports Facility in Dubai
Emirates NBD, a leading banking group in the Middle East, North Africa and Türkiye (MENAT) region, has announced the successful completion of a new Green Term Loan Facility with Galadari Sports, part of Galadari Brothers, a leading Dubai-based conglomerate, to fund the construction of a new sports complex in the emirate. The state-of-the-art facility will be built to the strict rules and parameters of Dubai Municipality's Sa'fat Gold certification for green buildings, while funding for the project aligns with Emirates NBD's Sustainable Finance Framework. Located in the Al Quoz neighborhood, the complex is among only a few privately funded developments that are targeting Sa'fat Gold certification. A flagship project for Galadari Sports, once completed, it will help to set new standards in sustainability for recreational buildings and associated infrastructure. As a key part of securing funding through Emirates NBD's Sustainable Finance Framework and official Loan Market Association (LMA) Green Loan Principles, construction of the new complex will adhere to stringent protocols governing building processes and materials, while regular environmental monitoring and annual impact reports will assess its ongoing compliance. Once completed, the new green-certified community facility will feature swimming pools, gyms, squash and padel courts, with power and utilities provided by innovative and sustainable systems including solar panels and water recycling. Emirates NBD is committed to enabling the UAE's transformation into a green, low-carbon economy through initiatives such as its Sustainable Finance Framework. Part of a wide-ranging economic empowerment strategy, Emirates NBD's Sustainable Finance Framework is aligned with the aims of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the UAE's Vision 2030 and Net Zero 2050 plans. Ahmed Al Qassim, Group Head of Wholesale Banking at Emirates NBD, said: This transaction between Emirates NBD and Galadari Sports is a clear and inspiring example of how sustainability-linked funding options continue to be a driving force in helping the UAE reach its Net Zero 2050 ambitions. The availability of new financing tools across sectors enables important collaborations between banking institutions and private companies, allowing for the creation of increased value through responsible, economically-empowering, and environmentally-friendly developments. Projects such as the Galadari Sports complex are at the forefront of a new wave of sustainable urban growth, with innovative green buildings – constructed according to the guiding principles of Dubai Municipality's Sa'fat Gold certification and aligned with Emirates NBD's Sustainable Finance Framework – providing essential services to communities. Mohammed Galadari, Co-Chairman and Group CEO of Galadari Brothers, said: This state-of-the-art project reflects our continued commitment to advancing sustainable development in the UAE. By investing in energy-efficient infrastructure and embracing green finance, we are proud to support the nation's Net Zero 2050 agenda while delivering long-term value to our communities. Our partnership with Emirates NBD marks a significant milestone for Galadari Brothers and reinforces our belief in the power of responsible, future-focused development. As we expand our presence in the wellness and recreation sector, sustainability will remain a core pillar of our long-term vision and growth strategy. News Source: Burson Global
Hi Dubai
2 hours ago
- Business
- Hi Dubai
UAE Gender Balance Council Leads GCC Push to Advance Women's Economic Empowerment
A high-level regional dialogue led by the UAE Gender Balance Council and the World Bank concluded in Dubai this week, with GCC countries reaffirming their shared commitment to accelerating women's economic empowerment through policy reform, legal innovation, and institutional collaboration. The two-day GCC Knowledge Exchange Workshop on Women's Economic Empowerment gathered top policymakers and gender equality advocates from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain. Held under the UAE Gender Balance Centre for Excellence & Knowledge Exchange, the workshop provided a platform to share reform experiences and strengthen cross-border cooperation on inclusive economic development. H.H. Sheikha Manal bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the UAE Gender Balance Council, described women's empowerment as 'a force for transformation,' and emphasised the UAE's vision for regional collaboration to ensure sustainable, inclusive growth. Supported by the World Bank, the forum highlighted initiatives such as investments in childcare and maternity support, recent legal reforms, and country-specific strategies to boost female workforce participation. The UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain showcased progress in gender-responsive policymaking, skills development, and labour market inclusion. Mona Al Marri, Vice President of the UAE Gender Balance Council, called the event 'a powerful example of shared leadership,' underscoring the importance of uniting efforts to close economic gender gaps across the region. The workshop concluded with a joint brief outlining key insights and future cooperation plans. Organisers say the momentum will continue through a growing regional network aimed at building inclusive economies driven by equal opportunity. News Source: Emirates News Agency
