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Arabian Business
29-07-2025
- Arabian Business
AB Majlis podcast: How discomfort became a luxury
It's 5 AM on a weekend in Dubai. Your Instagram feed tells a familiar story. Yet another acquaintance has posted from their ice bath session – steam rising off red, shocked skin as they emerge from water that would make a polar bear shiver. The ritual has become so commonplace that Arabian Business journalists Nicole Abigael and Tala Michel Issa barely registered it anymore – until they started looking at the numbers behind the trend. 'I think discomfort sells, and people are buying in,' Abigael says on the latest episode of the AB Majlis podcast, 'No pain, no gain? Ice baths, new-age therapies and why we pay to suffer in the name of health.' What began as casual observations led them into the global wellness economy – a sector valued at $5.6 trillion in 2024, projected to hit $8 trillion by 2027. A substantial share of that comes from people paying to self-inflict discomfort. According to Grand View Research, the cold plunge tub market was valued at $318.63 million in 2023, and is projected to reach $426.79 million by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 4.3 per cent. Alternative estimates from Zion Market Research suggest the market will grow from $322 million in 2023 to $478 million by 2032, reflecting a CAGR of 4.5 per cent. 'It's not just going to a spa anymore,' Abigael notes. 'People are buying these for their own homes.' Home cold plunge tubs now represent 80 per cent of industry sales growth. Premium models like The Plunge retail around $5,990 for the base tub (with optional chillers in the $3,000–$4,500 range). The Ice Barrel 400 is priced at approximately $1,200, offering strong insulation and long-lasting temperature retention. High-end models from other brands can exceed $10,000. Middle East execs drive demand The Middle East, particularly Dubai, has become fertile ground for this 'economy of discomfort.' Luxury spas now pair ice baths with breathwork sessions, creating a thriving niche of resilience-plus-luxury experiences. Wellness retreats in Thailand are tailoring programs to attract Middle Eastern clientele, highlighting the surge in high-end wellness tourism. 'A lot of clients arrive with stress-related symptoms or burnout,' Abigael reported, citing conversations with clinic operators. Executives worn down by 80-hour work weeks are flying halfway around the world to pay thousands of dollars to stress their bodies – to eventually destress them. The science behind these trends offers a more tempered view. A review published in PLoS One found no immediate immune boost from cold water immersion, but stress levels dropped significantly 12 hours later, with some improvement in sleep quality and overall well-being – though benefits were often short-lived without long-term practice. Another large systematic review analysing 3,177 participants confirmed that stress reduction and better quality of life persisted only for about 12 hours post-exposure; immune claims were unsupported and effects faded within a few months without constant repetition. Breathwork shows similarly modest gains. A 2023 meta-analysis of 12 randomised controlled trials (totalling 785 participants) found a small-to-moderate effect for reducing stress compared to controls, but most studies exhibited moderate risk of bias. Academic perspective Recent research suggests that benefits from cold-water immersion and breathwork are time‑sensitive and largely context-dependent. A University of Ottawa study found that one week of daily cold exposure enhanced cellular resilience and autophagic processes, indicating improved stress adaptation at the cellular level – but longer-term health implications remain uncertain. Meanwhile, clinical reviews show that effective breathwork outcomes typically result from human-guided training, multiple sessions, and long-term engagement, while one-off or fast-paced (less than 5 min) practices tend to yield little benefit. Abigael, who has worked in cryotherapy, explains the energetic jolt more physiologically than mystically: 'Your body rushes blood to your core to stay warm, and after you exit, circulation surges outward, creating that super‑energetic rush.' What underpins this booming industry may be less about physical health and more about visual spectacle. Social media loves a dramatic plunge: clean, aesthetic shots of matcha, breathwork, red‑faced emergence moments. It's a blend of genuine wellness seekers and trend followers feeding the same algorithm. As the episode wraps, the journalists arrive at a sobering final thought. 'What's booming is the business of health and the business of wellness,' said Abigael. Issa sums it up plainly: 'We're paying to suffer, and someone's making a fortune.' The final takeaway from their deep dive into discomfort economics? 'Marketing is always stronger than medicine.' And in an industry worth trillions, that may be the most uncomfortable truth of all. Tune in to AB Majlis every Monday To listen to the full episode and gain a comprehensive understanding of doing business in the Gulf region, visit our RSS feed or check out AB Majlis on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other platforms. Episodes are also available on: Tune in every Monday for weekly episodes that will help you stay ahead of the curve and enrich your understanding of the Gulf region.
Arabian Business
16-07-2025
- Arabian Business
Abu Dhabi real estate: New property laws explained
Abu Dhabi has launched sweeping real estate law reforms that create a 'triple protection' system for investors along with fines of up to AED 2 million for violations, experts told Arabian Business. The reforms, which came into effect on August 2, introduce more robust protections for developers, purchasers, and financiers. The changes are enforced through the Abu Dhabi Real Estate Centre (ADREC), which is the central regulator for the emirate's property sector. New Abu Dhabi real estate laws enhance investor protections and escrow rules 'The new real estate laws in Abu Dhabi introduce significant protections and opportunities for investors,' Nada Osman Jaouhar, Abu Dhabi Branch Director at Betterhomes said. 'The 2025 amendments provide 'triple protection' covering developers, purchasers, and financiers, creating a more secure investment environment. Investors will benefit from stricter escrow account regulations, where developers can only access funds after achieving 20 per cent project completion, reducing the risk of stalled projects. The laws also clarify mortgage frameworks and introduce a centralised Real Estate Development Register, enhancing transparency,' she added. Among the most significant changes is the ability for developers to cancel off-plan sales agreements without court intervention. 'Yes, developers can now cancel off-plan contracts without court intervention, but this action is strictly regulated,' Jaouhar explained, adding that developers may terminate contracts if purchasers default on payments, but only after obtaining approval from ADREC. 'This change aims to expedite dispute resolution while safeguarding buyers' rights, as purchasers retain the option to appeal through arbitration or the courts. The requirement for ADREC oversight ensures that cancellations are justified and not abused, maintaining a fair balance between developer flexibility and buyer protections,' she said. The reforms also target Abu Dhabi's ambition to attract more institutional capital into the real estate market. 'These reforms introduce stronger legal protections, clearer title frameworks, and enhanced oversight of developers, reducing regulatory friction, increasing transparency and strengthening confidence in asset underwriting, investing, and market liquidity for exits,' Mohamed Ali, Senior Director at GFH Partners Ltd said, adding that the timing of these reforms aligns with significant growth projections for Abu Dhabi's logistics sector. 'Abu Dhabi's logistics sector is projected to grow at a CAGR of over 5 per cent through 2028, fueled by accelerating e-commerce demand, supply chain modernisation, and major infrastructure developments such as the expansion of Khalifa Port, KEZAD, and Etihad Rail,' he added. Aside from this, the new legal framework offers a 'more stable and transparent foundation for developing and managing assets in these high-growth segments, particularly build-to-suit logistics facilities, cold-chain storage, and light manufacturing,' Ali said. Property management restructured through new Owners' Committees The new laws also restructure property management by replacing Owners' Associations with Owners' Committees. These committees now focus on strategic oversight, while daily operations are outsourced. 'Owners' Committees, introduced under the new laws, serve as advisory and oversight bodies, focusing on strategic decision-making. Day-to-day management of properties, including maintenance of shared spaces, is outsourced to professional firms,' explained Jaouhar. 'In contrast, the previous Owners' Associations were responsible for both oversight and operational tasks, often leading to inefficiencies.' Dispute resolution mechanisms have also been revised. ADREC will now mediate conflicts, including those related to contract terminations. 'The new rules simplify dispute resolution by introducing a more structured and efficient process. ADREC now acts as a mediator, reducing the need for lengthy court proceedings,' Jaouhar said. 'The laws provide clear guidelines for contract terminations and other disputes, ensuring both parties have defined avenues for recourse.' In the leasing segment, new rules introduce a Rental Index and enforce limits on rent increases. 'The introduction of a Rental Index now benchmarks lease rates by asset type and location, while annual rent increases are capped between 5–10 per cent,' Ali explained, adding lease agreements must also be 'registered and monitored through Tawtheeq, ensuring equitable leasing practices and enabling more predictable rental escalations.' New licensing rules and penalties for real estate professionals Real estate professionals must also adhere to new licensing requirements under ADREC's unified regulatory framework. 'Real estate professionals must adapt to expanded definitions of regulated activities, including brokerage, valuation, and property management. Licensing requirements are now more stringent, with all professionals required to register with ADREC,' Jaouhar warned. 'The laws also impose strict penalties for violations, such as misusing escrow funds or failing to comply with service charge regulations.' The new enforcement structure includes fines of up to AED 2 million. 'Property owners who default on service charges may face restrictions on disposing of their assets until payments are settled,' she added. ADREC is now responsible for a broader range of functions, including developer registration, contract termination approvals, and compliance monitoring. 'ADREC's role has been expanded to serve as the central regulatory authority for Abu Dhabi's real estate sector. The agency now oversees developer registrations, approves contract terminations, and mediates disputes between buyers and developers,' Jaouhar said, adding that ADREC also monitors compliance with escrow account regulations and imposes fines for violations. 'The new rules ensure the protection and sustainable management of shared spaces through professional oversight. Owners' Committees will oversee the allocation of service charges to maintain communal facilities, while professional management firms handle daily operations,' Jaouhar explained, adding that 'this structure guarantees that resources are used efficiently and that shared amenities like pools and gyms are properly maintained.' The reforms also support broader investor accessibility by enhancing transparency and expanding foreign investment avenues. The introduction of verified property listing platforms, improved land ownership clarity, and increased accessibility for foreign capital positions Abu Dhabi to pursue institutional-grade opportunities aligned with long-term growth strategies, Ali concluded.
Arabian Business
11-07-2025
- Arabian Business
UAE holiday dates; Commission-free Dubai real estate apps; 2025 visa-free travel ideas; Major Saudi property news – 10 things you missed this week
From game-changing real estate trends to major government updates across the UAE and Saudi Arabia, this week's top stories are shaping the region's business and lifestyle landscape. Whether you're planning your next holiday, exploring investment opportunities, or tracking policy changes, we've got you covered. Catch up on 10 of the biggest news stories this week, as selected by Arabian Business editors. UAE National Day 2025: Will there be a five-day weekend? Expected dates revealed UAE residents may be able to look forward to another long weekend in December 2025 as National Day approaches. UAE National Day is officially marked on December 2 and 3 each year. In 2025, these dates fall on a Tuesday and Wednesday. While the UAE government has not yet confirmed any extended break, residents may expect Monday, December 1 to be an additional day off, making it a five-day weekend. Commission-free apps challenge Dubai real estate brokers as direct buyer-seller models rise Dubai's property market is facing a shift as new digital platforms allowing direct buyer-seller connections threaten to make traditional real estate brokers obsolete, experts told Arabian Business. This shift mirrors how online booking services disrupted the travel agency industry over a decade ago. Some believe the real estate industry is now facing its travel agency moment. 'We're not approaching disruption, we're already in it,' said Ainsley Duncombe, founder of Off Market Listing Dubai and a 17-year veteran of the emirate's property scene. 'Think back to the travel industry. How often do people still use traditional travel agents? That same transformation is already underway in real estate.' UAE summer 2025: Visa-free travel destinations for Indian passport holders from Dubai Indian passport holders residing in the UAE have access to a wide range of visa-free, visa-on-arrival, and e-visa destinations in summer 2025. Click here to see a few countries and regions open for travel without a pre-approved visa or visa-on-arrival for Indian passport holders from Dubai. Indian passport holders in Dubai are advised to confirm entry requirements with official embassy or consulate sources before booking travel, as visa rules may change without prior notice. Dubai real estate: Investors can soon buy, sell property under new DLD, deal Dubai real estate investors may soon be able to buy and sell property using digital currencies like Bitcoin, following a new partnership between Dubai Land Department (DLD) and DLD, in partnership with will develop a digital investment environment for virtual real estate assets and explore blockchain technologies and digital currencies within the sector. The agreement follows the Dubai Government's announcement of plans to enable payment of government fees using digital currencies, representing a step forward in integrating technology with public services and reinforcing the emirate's leadership in government innovation. Saudi Arabia announces new work permit system for expats Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has implemented a new system for expat work permits. The new classification system divides expat workers in the kingdom into three skill categories: high-skill, skilled, and basic. Minister Ahmed Al-Rajhi announced the decision, which aims to enhance worker performance and attract global talent to transfer expertise and experience to the Saudi labour market. Dubai real estate prices climb in H1 2025 as villas surge up to 11% and ROI hits 11% in key communities Dubai's residential real estate market maintained strong momentum in the first half of 2025, with rising prices, high rental yields, and increased investor confidence across both ready and off-plan segments. According to a market report from Bayut and dubizzle, the emirate's real estate sector is entering a more mature, data-driven phase, where long-term value, transparency, and trusted insights are shaping buyer and seller decisions. In the ready sales segment, villa prices in Dubailand surged by up to 10.4 per cent, driven by demand for larger, affordable homes. Other high-performing communities included Dubai South, DAMAC Hills 2, and Dubai Sports City. Saudi cabinet approves law on property ownership by non-citizens The Saudi Arabian Cabinet, chaired by Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, approved an updated law regulating property ownership by non-Saudis. The law aims to develop the real estate sector and encourage foreign direct investment. The new law permits ownership in the Holy Cities of Makkah and Madinah, albeit with special requirements, and comes into effect from January 2026. The cabinet decision mandates the Real Estate General Authority with the responsibility for proposing the areas within which non-Saudis may own real estate or acquire other property rights. The authority will publish the executive regulations of the law on the Istitaa public survey platform and seek viewpoints and suggestions of the public within 180 days of its publication in the official Umm Al-Qura Gazette. Dubai's RTA launches trials for driverless vehicles Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with a company specialising in autonomous driving technologies, to begin pilot trials of autonomous vehicles in the emirate. The trials are scheduled to begin later this year, with plans to launch a fully driverless commercial service in 2026. recently unveiled the seventh generation of its autonomous vehicles, developed jointly with automotive manufacturers including Toyota, GAC, and BAIC. The company's vehicles feature artificial intelligence algorithms and sensors, including lidars, radars, and cameras, designed to ensure navigation and safety across road and weather conditions. UAE denies lifetime Golden Visa claims The UAE has denied rumours it is granting lifetime Golden Visas to citizens of certain nationalities. The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) denied the accuracy of rumours circulated by some local and international media outlets and websites regarding the granting of lifetime Golden Visas to certain nationalities. ICP clarified that the categories, conditions, and regulations of the Golden Visa are clearly defined in accordance with official laws, legislations, and ministerial decisions. UAE flight cancellations: Emirates announces travel update Dubai-based carrier Emirates has announced updated flight cancellations, extending its suspension of Iran flights. Until July 17, Emirates will not fly to and from Tehran citing 'operational reasons' in its latest travel update. The airline announced the extension on July 8, marking the latest in a series of suspensions that have affected the route since mid-June due to regional tensions.
