What is happening in Dubai

India's Bank of Baroda has reached an out‑of‑court settlement with NMC Health's administrators, paying $600 million (about AED 2.2 billion). The deal ends two lawsuits – one in ADGM and another in the UK – and could calm investors watching the fallout from the Abu Dhabi health‑group collapse.

Shurooq partnered with Minor Hotels to manage seven boutique retreats across Sharjah. This deal boosts the emirate's tourism sector, offering unique nature and heritage stays for visitors and investors looking for new experiences.

Dubai will hit 43°C on Saturday, July 4, with dusty conditions expected. The NCM forecasts light to moderate winds that may reduce visibility. Humidity could reach 90% in parts of the UAE.

The Al Freej Fridge campaign, run by Ferjan Dubai and backed by MBRS Global Initiatives, will hand out around two million bottles of water, juice and ice‑cream to labourers across Dubai until 3 September. The free‑service uses four refrigerated vans and Emirati volunteers, showing community support for the workforce that builds the city.

Abu Dhabi police have once again called on motorists to avoid any distractions while driving. A video released by the force shows accidents caused by phone use and other inattentive behaviours, especially in traffic jams. Staying attentive reduces the risk of serious crashes and matters to all expats and residents in the UAE.

Indian missions in the UAE are currently providing limited passport and visa services. The Ministry of External Affairs is awaiting court directions to resume full operations, which could delay document processing for many residents.

Lebanon is actively courting Emirati capital to revive its struggling economy. Ambassador Tarek Mneimneh said investors from the UAE are “more than welcome” and highlighted ports, airports and digital governance as priority sectors. This opens new opportunities for the UAE business community looking to invest in the region.

Dubai police have issued a safety alert after a viral social‑media challenge encouraged youngsters to heat slime and squishy toys in microwaves. The practice can cause burns, explosions and even small fires, a risk parents in the UAE should be aware of.

Alhind Tours & Travels has postponed the launch of its passport and visa services in the UAE. The delay follows administrative instructions from the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi. The services were set for July 1, but are now on hold pending further notice.

ADNOC has signed an agreement giving it stakes in all five Rio Grande LNG trains under construction in Texas. The move opens new opportunities for investors and strengthens the UAE’s role in the global energy market.

Sheikh Hamdan announced that Emirati‑owned companies added $500 million in revenue in 2025, driven by rising demand from Dubai’s public and private sectors. The boost signals more opportunities for local SMEs and could affect investors looking at the UAE market.

Sharjah has implemented temporary road changes between University City and Ard Al Maahid. The diversions last until August 23 to support the new Etihad Rail station opening next year. Drivers should follow signs.

An Al Ain court ordered a former employee to pay Dh30,000 for refusing to return a company vehicle after termination. Using the car as leverage in a labor dispute was ruled an illegal act of deprivation.

From July 4 to August 23, road routes between University City and Ard Al Maahid in Sharjah will be altered. The changes affect daily commutes for expats and residents, so stay informed about the new detours and adjust travel times accordingly.

UAE banks have issued a warning regarding scam techniques used to steal from travellers. Customers are advised not to share banking details or OTP codes through unverified links to stay safe online.

Dubai approved a 15-km carriageway project to ease Sheikh Zayed Road congestion. It will serve 2.6 million people and reduce current traffic volumes by half significantly.

UAE’s major airports are rolling out biometric and AI‑driven systems that let travelers board flights without presenting a passport. Dubai International and Abu Dhabi International are the first to test the faster, passport‑free process, which promises smoother check‑in and security for expats, tourists and business travelers alike.

Dubai property sales reached $78 billion in the first half of 2026. Nearly 80,000 transactions were recorded, signaling strong market growth and continued investor confidence in the emirate.

Check the latest Middle East aviation updates to see which carriers have resumed flights to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other regional hubs. Knowing which routes remain suspended is crucial for planning your trip and avoiding disruptions.

Abu Dhabi's IHC partners with Adani for a massive aluminium plant in India. The $11.5bn deal highlights UAE capital expanding globally and creates thousands of jobs.

President Sheikh Mohamed met Libya’s Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibah in Abu Dhabi on Thursday. They discussed Middle East developments, regional stability and ways to deepen bilateral cooperation. The meeting matters for expats and investors as it signals political stability and openness in the UAE.

Sheikh Hamdan, Crown Prince of Dubai, is spearheading a large‑scale property conversion project aimed at boosting the city’s global competitiveness. The move creates fresh opportunities for investors and expats looking to tap into the UAE real‑estate market.

Dubai authorities intercepted a shipment of 278,000 pregabalin pills weighing 200kg. Data analysis systems helped customs and police arrest four gang members involved in the smuggling operation from Asia. This highlights the strict security measures at the borders.

Dubai’s first Etihad Rail station will open on September 30, linking the Jumeirah Golf Estates hub with the national rail network. Experts say the new link will make the area more attractive for residents and investors, though property prices are expected to stay stable in the short term.

Sobha Realty partnered with NBQ to offer preferential mortgage rates and better financing terms for off-plan buyers. This agreement simplifies the process and reduces costs for eligible investors purchasing new properties in the UAE.