Dubai Land Department introduced First-Time Home Buyer Programme on July 2, 2025. This initiative offers priority access and flexible payment options. Buyers can get discounts on properties up to AED 5 million. Residents over 18 without prior Dubai property ownership are eligible. Developers report high interest, especially for homes below AED 1.5 million.
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The Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry experienced a 4.9% membership surge in the first half of 2025, exceeding 158,000 companies, signaling strong business confidence. Growth was particularly notable in agriculture, arts, and technology sectors, reflecting Abu Dhabi's economic diversification efforts. The Chamber actively supports this growth through partnerships, services, and alignment with Abu Dhabi Vision 2030.
The UAE has established the National Anti-Narcotics Authority under a federal decree issued by President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Sheikh Zayed bin Hamad bin Hamdan Al Nahyan has been appointed as its Chairman. The Authority is tasked with unifying drug control efforts nationwide through coordinated legislation, enforcement, prevention, and monitoring of narcotics-related threats.
Tragedy struck off the coast of Yemen as a migrant vessel sank, resulting in the confirmed deaths of at least 27 people. Security sources in Abyan province reported that approximately 150 individuals were aboard the ship. Search operations are currently underway to locate the over 100 migrants who remain missing following the devastating incident.
Bahrain is preparing for a total lunar eclipse on September 7, 2025, a rare event turning the moon a deep red. Visible from 7:28 pm to 10:56 pm, the peak "blood moon" phase will last about 1 hour and 22 minutes. The eclipse, safe to view without special equipment, aligns with Salat Al-Khusuf, holding both scientific and cultural significance.
Spain introduces new short-term work permits. These permits are valid for stays under 90 days. Skilled professionals like digital nomads can apply. EU Blue Card holders and researchers are also eligible. Professionals in UAE can now work on projects in Spain easily. This simplifies access to Spain's job market for brief assignments. It offers flexibility and legal work authorization.
Oman secures recognition for its cultural heritage. Four historic sites, including Al Hamoudah Mosque and Suhar Fort, join the Arab Heritage List. The Arab League acknowledges their architectural and historical importance. Nizwa Fort and Al Shawadhna Mosque also gain recognition. This boosts Oman's profile and supports cultural tourism. The sites represent Oman's commitment to preserving its Arab-Islamic heritage.
Oman experienced a 5.5% surge in vehicle registrations, reaching 1.79 million by June 2025, driven primarily by private cars and light vehicles. White remains the favored color, and mid-sized engines dominate, reflecting consumer preferences for practicality and efficiency. This growth underscores Oman's expanding mobility and economic progress towards its Vision 2040 goals.
Skims, Kim Kardashian’s shapewear and lifestyle brand, is opening its first Middle East store at Dubai’s Mall of the Emirates, marking its entry into the Gulf’s luxury market. Known for inclusive, body-positive fashion, Skims is expanding globally with plans for flagship stores in London and Mexico, aiming to build a premium brick-and-mortar presence alongside its strong direct-to-consumer roots.
In Q1 2025, domestic workers constitute 25.2% of Kuwait's expatriate labor, totaling 745,000, a 5.6% decrease from last year. Indians lead both domestic (42.2%) and overall expatriate employment (35.3%). Workers from India, Sri Lanka, the Philippines, and Bangladesh comprise nearly 90% of the domestic labor force, reflecting shifts in Kuwait's labor market.