'From the heart of the world' – Hamdan accords warm welcome to Dubai's 9.8m visitors
Through the X platform, Sheikh Hamdan said, "Dubai continues to set new records, welcoming over 9.88 million international visitors in the first half of this year, a 6% rise from the same period in 2024. This milestone reflects the vision of Mohammed Bin Rashid to position Dubai among the world's top three global tourism destinations, in line with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33."
He added, "The achievement has been driven by strong public-private partnerships and an effective global marketing strategy."
"A warm welcome to all our visitors — from the heart of the world — Dubai," the Crown Prince said.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
ME Construction
an hour ago
- ME Construction
Ellington Properties launches its inaugural commercial development, Eaton Square
Property Ellington Properties launches its inaugural commercial development, Eaton Square By The development introduces a next-generation office concept that integrates wellness, architecture, and smart technology and is anchored by seven core wellness principles Ellington Properties has announced the launch of Eaton Square, its inaugural commercial development. Taking shape in Mohammed Bin Rashid City (MBR City), the project is said to signify a new chapter for the developer, extending its signature commitment to design and human-centric living into the commercial real estate sector. As Dubai solidifies its position as a global business hub through national initiatives such as the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, the city is witnessing a surge in foreign direct investments. This surge has driven the demand for future-ready workspaces. In 2024, the Dubai Chamber of Commerce recorded its highest-ever annual increase in memberships, with a remarkable 70,500 new companies joining, representing a 4.6% year-on-year rise. Growth sectors include construction 33%, real estate and business services 8.4%, transportation and communications 8.3%, and financial services 8.3%. Eaton Square is designed to cater to this demand for modern workplaces that prioritise well-being, flexibility, and innovation, the firm said in a statement. Scheduled for completion in Q2 2028, Eaton Square will rise as a contemporary commercial tower, boasting 11 office floors and premium retail spaces. Each floor has been designed for single-tenant occupancy, ensuring exclusivity and privacy for businesses. The floors will offer panoramic views of Dubai's skyline and the surrounding central lagoon, creating an elevated and inspiring working environment. Joseph Thomas, Co-Founder of Ellington Properties said, 'With Eaton Square, we are expanding the boundaries of what commercial real estate can offer in Dubai. This launch reflects our continued commitment to design excellence, now re-imagined for the workplace. As the city evolves into a global hub for businesses, there is a clear need for workspaces that foster well-being, creativity, and connection. Eaton Square delivers on that promise, offering an environment that inspires performance and cultivates balance.' Eaton Square offers a range of indoor and outdoor amenities designed to support a modern work-life experience. From a fitness centre, yoga studio, sauna, and changing rooms to an executive lounge and co-working lounge equipped with presentation technology. An on-site daycare centre supports working parents, while designated phone booths and quiet zones promote focus and privacy, the firm said. The development also prioritises accessibility and sustainable mobility, featuring parking bays, EV charging stations, and bicycle storage. Advanced smart building technology, including destination control lifts, facial recognition (FR), Near Field Communication (NFC), QR code readers across front-of-house (FOH) areas, and video analytics with people counting, behavioral analysis, and object tracking, enhances the overall experience, the statement concluded.
Sharjah 24
12 hours ago
- Sharjah 24
VP meets with local dignitaries, investors, senior officials
The gathering reflects his commitment to direct community engagement, open dialogue, and spirit of collaboration across society, supporting development, business growth, and public-private partnerships. During the gathering, His Highness highlighted the UAE's continued progress in building a distinctive development model based on openness, competitiveness, and support for entrepreneurship. He noted that the country's success stems from ambitious goals, a people-centred approach, and strong public-private partnerships. The achievements of recent decades, he added, reflect a clear vision driven by planning, determination, and collaboration. His Highness added that the UAE remains committed to being a land of opportunity, a hub for prosperity, and a welcoming home for all who contribute to its growth. He emphasised that the country's economy is built on trust, and its success is driven by collaboration and a bold, forward-looking vision. He also said that at every stage, the UAE has set new benchmarks for progress and established a model economy rooted in innovation. The outcomes of this journey are evident today in the country's stability, social cohesion, and the resilience and growth of its economy. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid also highlighted Dubai's vital role in the UAE's broader development journey, as it continues to strengthen its position as a leading global economic centre. This progress is underpinned by a forward-looking strategy, strong collaboration between the public and private sectors, and world-class infrastructure and legislation. Driven by investor confidence, market maturity, and its ability to attract top talent and opportunities, the emirate continues to advance the goals of Dubai Economic Agenda D33. During the meeting, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum also attended a lecture titled 'The UAE as a Destination for the World's Wealthy,' delivered by Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing. The lecture highlighted the UAE, especially Dubai, as a top destination for investors and entrepreneurs, thanks to its safety, infrastructure, quality of life, and open economy. He noted that over 131,000 wealthy individuals settled in the UAE by 2024, up from 116,000 in 2023, with a further rise expected this year. He added that, driven by visionary leadership, Dubai welcomed 9.88 million visitors in the first half of 2025 and is now seen as the world's top destination to live, work, and visit. Issam Kazim also explained how the tourism strategy supports the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and strengthens Dubai's global standing. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid also attended a live demonstration of the Unitree G1 robot by Dubai Future Labs. The lightweight, highly balanced robot mimics human movement and represents the latest in robotics and AI. It will be featured in the Museum of the Future's interactive displays, welcoming visitors and showcasing advanced technology, reflecting Dubai's commitment to innovation and technology for human benefit.
Khaleej Times
16 hours ago
- Khaleej Times
Dubai: Car showrooms cordoned off after massive fire at Awir auto zone
Multiple car showrooms remained cordoned off on Wednesday at Dubai Auto Zone in Al Awir, days after a massive fire broke out in the area. When Khaleej Times visited the site on Wednesday, the affected showrooms were found closed, with tapes sealing off the affected area. Charred debris was visible through broken windows, and the smell of burnt material still lingered. According to a nearby showroom staff and eyewitnesses, the fire started on Saturday afternoon at one of the car showrooms and rapidly spread to neighbouring outlets. Dubai Civil Defence teams were quick to respond and were seen battling the blaze in videos circulating on social media. 'The fire began shortly after noon at the VIP Stars showroom and quickly spread to the surrounding showrooms,' said a salesperson from Al Falasi Cars, which also sustained damage. 'Our other showroom is located right opposite. We saw the fire spreading and the emergency response teams arriving.' While the total number of vehicles destroyed is still being assessed, eyewitnesses said that multiple cars were damaged in the blaze. 'From our side alone, five cars were lost,' the staff member said. People working in the vicinity said that firefighters acted swiftly and were able to contain the fire before it spread further in the Auto Zone, which houses a large number of car dealerships and garages.
