Abu Dhabi’s financial centre has reported a significant 42% year-on-year increase in active companies during the first half of 2025, highlighting the emirate’s growing appeal as a global business hub. The number of operational entities within the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) reached 2,972 by June 30, up from 2,381 at the end of 2024. This growth reflects a broader trend of global firms seeking proximity to Abu Dhabi’s powerful sovereign wealth funds, which collectively manage nearly $2 trillion—more than any other city globally. In addition to the increase in active companies, assets under management (AUM) within ADGM also rose…
Author: Abu Dhabi Times
The United Arab Emirates is accelerating its adoption of autonomous technology with plans to introduce driverless delivery vehicles nationwide within the next year. This move follows successful trials in Masdar City, Abu Dhabi, where autonomous vehicles have been delivering products to customers. Tariq Al Wahedi, CEO of 7X Group, a Dubai-based trade, transport, and logistics holding group, stated, “A few autonomous trucks are already active in Masdar City, doing deliveries. We need a certain number of hours to prove that it is safe. Then it will be extended to Khalifa City. We will then do another trial in Dubai as…
As over one million students returned to schools for the 2025–26 academic year on August 25, the United Arab Emirates reinforced its commitment to digital education by distributing 46,888 laptops to public school students from Grade 5 onward. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to modernize learning, bridge the digital divide, and prepare students for a technology-driven future. Students receiving laptops are required to sign a pledge committing to responsible and safe usage. The program aims to improve engagement, enhance learning outcomes, and foster digital literacy from an early age. Alongside device distribution, the UAE has invested in…
The United Arab Emirates has intensified enforcement of media standards after the UAE Media Council took legal action against a social media advertiser for promoting a health-related product with false and unapproved medical claims. The move underscores the country’s commitment to combating misinformation and ensuring accountability in digital advertising. The case falls under the new Media Regulation Law, which came into effect on May 29 and includes strict guidelines for advertising, particularly for health and wellness products. Authorities confirmed that the advertiser was summoned and that legal proceedings have been initiated in response to the violation. The UAE Media Council…
The United Arab Emirates has stepped up its Gulf diplomacy following Israel’s recent attack on Hamas leaders in Doha. President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan embarked on a tour of Gulf countries to coordinate regional positions and reinforce unity, a senior diplomatic adviser said. Anwar Gargash, the UAE’s diplomatic adviser, described the tour as a reflection of “a deep conviction in strengthening coordination and cooperation, and in reinforcing the concept of a common destiny.” The visit underscores the UAE’s commitment to collective security and strategic alignment among Gulf nations. The Israeli airstrike on Hamas political leaders in Qatar’s capital…
The United Arab Emirates has strongly condemned the recent aggressive statements made by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu targeting the State of Qatar. The UAE reaffirmed its unwavering solidarity with Qatar, emphasizing that threats against one Gulf nation are threats against the entire region. In an official statement, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs underlined that Qatar’s security and stability are integral to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) system. The ministry noted that any hostile action toward a Gulf state undermines regional security and destabilizes the collective unity that has been a cornerstone of Gulf cooperation for decades. The ministry…
The United Arab Emirates has released a new report that highlights the benefits of remote work and hybrid policies for businesses and society. The white paper, titled Remote Work in the UAE, outlines how flexible work arrangements can boost productivity, inclusivity, and wellbeing while easing traffic congestion in cities. The study makes the case for companies to consider remote work as part of their long-term planning. Although the government has not yet announced an official policy, the white paper shows a clear preference for enabling remote work in the future. Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence,…
A scientific breakthrough in the UAE could transform healthcare testing in low-resource and remote areas. Researchers at New York University Abu Dhabi have introduced a paper-based diagnostic tool that can detect infectious diseases in less than 10 minutes. Known as the Radially Compartmentalised Paper Chip, or RCP-Chip, this innovation provides a fast, affordable, and portable solution that removes the need for advanced laboratory equipment or specialized training. The idea was born in the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, a time when the world faced serious shortages of reliable testing. According to Mohammad A. Qasaimeh, Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering…
Iraq fuel oil exports to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) saw a notable rise in September, reaching 33,000 barrels per day (bpd). The figures come from data provided by S&P Global Commodity Insights, highlighting the increasing importance of Iraq as a supplier of refined petroleum products in the Gulf region. The exports, directed mainly through the UAE’s Fujairah port, reflect a broader regional trend of growing demand for refined fuels. In September alone, inflows of refined products through Fujairah averaged more than 1 million bpd. This marked a sharp increase compared to August, when inflows stood at 669,000 bpd. The…
