Latest news with #ArabianPostStaff
Arabian Post
5 days ago
- Business
- Arabian Post
Dubai and Masdar City Collaboration to Boost Real Estate Investment
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Dubai Land Department has formalised a groundbreaking partnership with Masdar City, paving the way for companies operating within Abu Dhabi's prominent free zones to acquire land plots and properties under the freehold ownership system in Dubai. This strategic memorandum of understanding aims to provide these companies with a more expansive and regulated pathway to invest in the Dubai real estate market, in line with the emirate's broader vision to bolster its economic landscape. The MoU was signed by Majid Al Marri, CEO of the Real Estate Registration Sector at DLD, and Ahmed Baghoum, CEO of Masdar City, during an official event in Dubai. The agreement marks a significant step in enhancing Dubai's real estate market, which is actively adapting to new investor demands and aims to remain a competitive player on the global stage. ADVERTISEMENT This collaboration is part of a wider effort to increase the attractiveness of the Dubai property market, with a focus on aligning with the Dubai Real Estate Strategy 2033. As part of this strategy, the city aims to enhance its status as a global hub for investment, business, and residential opportunities. By granting companies in Masdar City the ability to own land and property in Dubai, the DLD is encouraging greater foreign investment and further integration of the free zone's economic sectors with the emirate's broader financial ecosystem. The development comes as part of Dubai's commitment to expanding its investment opportunities across various sectors. This MoU reflects the UAE's ambition to tap into innovative and sustainable business models, especially in green and technology-driven industries. Masdar City, which has long been recognised as a leader in sustainable urban development, is expected to play a pivotal role in further shaping the region's real estate future. The partnership also signals a convergence of real estate and green innovation, capitalising on both sectors' growth trajectories. Masdar City, known for its focus on sustainability, is home to a growing number of businesses and startups involved in renewable energy, environmental solutions, and green technologies. By facilitating real estate ownership for these companies in Dubai, the DLD is fostering an environment that encourages companies operating in these industries to expand and deepen their investments in the UAE's economic framework. For Masdar City, the agreement opens up new opportunities for its tenants, creating a more expansive environment in which businesses can thrive, with the potential for significant capital appreciation as Dubai's real estate market remains one of the most stable and profitable in the region. This move is also expected to elevate the city's global competitiveness by promoting a broader base of businesses, both within Masdar and the UAE at large. The impact of the collaboration extends beyond just Masdar City, as it could set a precedent for similar partnerships with other free zones across the UAE. By allowing companies established in these zones to acquire freehold properties in Dubai, the deal may become a template for expanding the emirate's real estate portfolio to a wider range of international businesses. This would further diversify Dubai's economy, making it more resilient to external market fluctuations and better positioned for future growth. ADVERTISEMENT The MoU is also aligned with the Dubai Land Department's efforts to provide a comprehensive regulatory framework that ensures transparency and ease of investment. By streamlining the process for companies seeking to buy real estate in Dubai, the agreement simplifies procedures that may have previously been perceived as barriers to entry, thereby improving the investment climate in the city. As global markets continue to shift and adapt to new economic realities, Dubai remains at the forefront of innovation in property ownership models. With its unique approach to offering a blend of residential, commercial, and industrial opportunities, the city continues to cater to a wide range of investors, both local and international. The collaboration between Dubai Land Department and Masdar City reinforces the UAE's strategy of creating an attractive and dynamic environment for business, while also ensuring sustainable growth. With the expanding role of free zones in driving the nation's economy, this move is expected to provide tangible benefits for both Masdar City tenants and the wider Dubai real estate market, positioning the emirate as a leader in global real estate investment.
Arabian Post
20-07-2025
- Business
- Arabian Post
Dubai Sets Global Benchmark for AI Transparency
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Dubai has introduced the world's first icon-based system to clearly signal whether content is crafted by humans, artificial intelligence, or a blend of both. Launched by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Human–Machine Collaboration classification marks a shift in content disclosure standards. The initiative requires government entities to adopt the system immediately, marking a drive towards accountability and public trust in an era of rapid AI integration. The HMC framework comprises five primary icons: All Human, Human-Led, Machine-Assisted, Machine-Led, and All Machine, each reflecting increasing levels of machine involvement. Developers can further specify nine functional icons to indicate AI contribution across tasks such as ideation, data analysis, writing, translation, visuals, and design. ADVERTISEMENT The system, developed by the Dubai Future Foundation and endorsed by Sheikh Hamdan in his capacity as Chairman of its Board of Trustees, is compulsory for all Dubai government research and knowledge publications. Media content, academic papers, technical reports, videos, academic journals and other multimedia outputs must now prominently display the appropriate icons. For non-government creators, the icons are voluntary but available for ethical transparency. Sheikh Hamdan said transparency is essential for distinguishing human creativity from machine efficacy. He urged global content creators—researchers, publishers, writers, and designers—to adopt the new classification as a norm. On LinkedIn, he stated: 'Today, we launch the world's first Human–Machine Collaboration Icons…a new global benchmark in the age of AI,' inviting worldwide adoption. The initiative meets growing demands for clarity around AI-generated content in scientific, academic, and creative fields. As AI technologies such as generative models and automation tools proliferate, distinguishing authorship becomes increasingly complex. The HMC system addresses this by offering concise visual indicators of machine involvement throughout a document's lifecycle. Beyond classification, the icons offer practical guidelines. Each icon can appear on the cover, footer, or bibliography of a document, with no numerical thresholds assigned. The nine functional icons enable precise reporting by highlighting stages influenced by AI, such as data collection or translation. The system avoids quantification due to challenges in objectively assessing AI contribution levels. Dubai's icon strategy is modelled on enhancing trust in public knowledge creation. Government entities in Dubai must adopt the icons; private sector use is labelled 'opt-in and voluntary,' encouraging transparency across broader sectors. The icons aim to build credibility in educational materials, annual reports, research briefs, social media content, public-facing campaigns, and design outputs. Industry experts have broadly welcomed the initiative. Fast Company Middle East noted the dual-layer approach offers transparency without excessive complexity, while Economy Middle East reported Sheikh Hamdan's emphasis on the blurred lines between human art and machine output. Gulf News cited the icons as a tool for 'honest self-assessment,' reinforcing accountability among content creators. Academics and publishers are now exploring integration possibilities. The system could become a template for journal submission protocols or university publishing frameworks. Concerns persist about compliance monitoring and the potential for misuse—some question whether creators may understate AI contribution or apply icons inconsistently across formats. Dubai Future Foundation has emphasised that icons are free to use and do not require licensing; they are copyrighted but freely deployable, with no prior permission needed. The foundation's intention is to encourage natural adoption in scholarly work, media, and social channels, promoting a culture of transparency rather than regulatory enforcement. Global observers note that while Dubai is first, other cities and institutions are likely to follow. The HMC icons address growing demand from research communities for AI disclosure standards, amid debates over authorship attribution, peer review confidence, and reproducibility. Dubai's initiative closes a gap in ethical AI practice by establishing a clear visual code for machine involvement. As AI-generated content becomes ubiquitous, its success will depend on global uptake, consistent application, and alignment with existing ethics and publishing standards. In the meantime, Dubai's icons offer a blueprint for transparency, setting a new bar for content creation in the AI era.
Arabian Post
15-07-2025
- Business
- Arabian Post
GCC IPO Market Sees Largest-Yet First Half, Despite Dip in Proceeds
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai GCC countries secured $3.4 bn from 24 initial public offerings in the first half of 2025, down 6% from $3.6 bn over 23 listings a year earlier, according to a report by Kuwaiti research firm Markaz. Saudi Arabia drove the surge, contributing $2.8 bn through 22 IPOs—an increase of 36% year‑on‑year—while the UAE and Oman saw more subdued performances. Oil‑price volatility, US tariff threats and global trade uncertainty weighed on market sentiment, but issuance volumes rose. The number of offerings edged higher to 24 from 23 in H1 2024, illustrating issuer appetite amid wider economic headwinds. ADVERTISEMENT Saudi listings captured 85% of the total proceeds, reinforcing its dominance in the regional IPO pipeline. The Kingdom raised $2.8 bn, up from $2.1 bn in the first half of 2024, with 22 issuances compared to 19 a year ago. The UAE saw a substantial 88% drop in IPO proceeds, with just one public offering—Alpha Data—raising $163 m in Abu Dhabi. Oman followed with the debut of Asyad Shipping Company, generating $333 m on the Muscat bourse. No IPOs were recorded in Kuwait, Qatar or Bahrain during this period. Sector analysis reveals the industrials segment led with $1.4 bn in proceeds, bolstered by Flynas and Asyad Shipping Company. Real estate followed with demand for development and construction offerings, while healthcare IPOs collected $505 m. Financial services and technology contributed $408 m and $204 m respectively. Performance after listing was mixed. Ten of the 24 companies saw positive returns by the end of June. Asyad Shipping led the pack, with its stock surging 835% since its March 12 listing. Umm Al Qura in Saudi Arabia recorded a 51% gain. On the downside, Hedab Alkhaleej, Dkhoun National Trading and Service Equipment fell by 30%, 27% and 26% respectively. Flynas edged slightly lower by 0.2%, despite an initial dip. Wider equity market performance across the region showed divergence. Kuwait's bourse rose 18.1% year‑to‑date, followed by Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Qatar, while Oman, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia retreated by 1.7%, 2.1% and 7.6% respectively. Geopolitical shocks—including renewed US tariff threats and oil price fluctuations— exerted pressure on national indices. On Monday, Saudi Arabia's Tadawul shed 0.2%, while Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Qatar all fell in the range of 0.3–0.5%. Investors are watching US inflation signals and Fed decisions closely, given the peg of Gulf currencies to the dollar. Despite softer proceeds overall, the strong issuance tally suggests issuers seized a narrow window before heightened uncertainty. A PwC analysis of Q1 showed GCC IPOs rose 33%, raising $1.6 bn from 11 deals, with Saudi Arabia capturing nearly 70% of that total. Looking ahead, Saudi Arabia is expected to maintain momentum, driven by privatisation efforts and a diverse pipeline of government-linked listings led by the Public Investment Fund. The UAE is projected to ramp up activity in industrials and tech, while Kuwait is implementing regulatory reforms to stimulate listings. Market analysts caution that global headwinds remain. PwC flagged how tariff announcements and macroeconomic instability continue to disrupt IPO sentiment globally. Within the GCC, sustained oil-price volatility and tightening monetary conditions add complexity. Nevertheless, Gulf capital markets have demonstrated resilience. Encouraged by diversified sector participation and healthy post-listing gains, policymakers and market participants appear poised to capitalise on remaining windows of stability.
Arabian Post
09-07-2025
- Business
- Arabian Post
DXB Unveils QR‑Based Greet & Go Welcome System
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Dubai International Airport has introduced DXB Greet & Go in Terminal 3, revolutionising the way arrivals are greeted. Licensed hotels, tour operators and transport providers can now tap QR codes—replacing traditional placards—to meet guests efficiently in a dedicated arrivals area. The initiative, officially live since early July, provides an authorised meeting zone designed to improve passenger flow and elevate hospitality standards. Dubai Airports has established this as part of its strategy to ease congestion and reduce stress at peak arrival times. ADVERTISEMENT This digital-first service streamlines the reception experience: instead of waiting among crowds, drivers and host staff now scan pre-shared QR codes, guiding travellers directly to designated areas where they are met by clear signage. The system aligns with security protocols while offering better clarity and comfort. Industry observers describe DXB Greet & Go as another milestone in Dubai's automation and smart-performance ambitions. It complements prior enhancements—like biometric Smart Tunnels and QR-code navigation tools—designed to process high passenger volumes more swiftly while preserving a premium touchpoint. Key regional operators have already registered. A senior operations manager at one of Dubai's leading hospitality chains noted guest satisfaction has improved, citing fewer missed connections and faster handovers. Dubai Airports spokesperson emphasised that launch partners are primarily 'licensed entities' committed to seamless, branded guest engagement. Compliance and coordination with security teams were paramount in crafting the scheme. The dedicated meeting point follows stringent screening criteria and maintains oversight from airport operations, ensuring guest meets do not impinge on wider terminal safety. It also alleviates footfall in busy corridors, especially during peak periods. Analysts see branding and service quality benefits. Sharply reducing wait times at arrivals enhances early impressions for high‑value guests, business travellers and VIPs—key revenues for both hotels and airport retail operators. And as QR-based systems gain traction worldwide, DXB's approach may offer a replicable benchmark for other global gateways. Passengers have already reported smoother arrivals. A recent poll by a GCC‑based travel blog found that 87 percent of users appreciated the clarity of designated zones and reduced crowding. Several said using the service felt more 'personalised and modern', aligning with expectations for a luxury travel experience. Onboarding requires minimal effort: partners register via Dubai Airports' platform, receive official QR codes linked to flight details, and station meeting personnel accordingly. QR scanning synchronises with flight schedules, activating the service only once the flight has landed and passengers have disembarked. Dubai Airports reports the system has quickly gained traction among boutique hotels and VIP ground handlers, with expansion plans underway. Terminal 3—the main hub for Emirates—is expected to expand the service across other terminals if demand continues. The move also integrates with existing smart journeys like DXB Express Maps, enabling visitors to navigate lounges, shops and gates by QR scanning digital kiosks. The combined effect is a frictionless experience from landing to departure, supporting ambitions to top 100 million annual passengers.
Arabian Post
09-07-2025
- Business
- Arabian Post
UAE Authority Rejects Myth of Lifetime Golden Visa
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security has issued a strong and authoritative rebuttal to claims circulating that the United Arab Emirates is offering lifetime Golden Visas to certain nationalities. In its statement on 8 July, ICP emphasised that Golden Visa eligibility is strictly governed by existing laws, ministerial decisions, and official regulations. Applications are processed only via UAE government channels—no consultancy firm, internal or external, has legitimate authority to promise visa grants under simplified conditions. The statement was prompted by alleged press releases from a foreign consultancy office claiming applicants could secure lifetime Golden Visas for all categories from abroad. ICP characterised these claims as legally baseless and made without coordination with UAE authorities. Following these claims, several Indian and UAE-based outlets reportedly published the information before the ICP clarified its position. ADVERTISEMENT While ICP refrains from naming the specific consultancy, it has warned of impending legal action against entities using false promises to extract money from individuals seeking long-term residency in the UAE. 'Entities spreading such false information [are] exploiting [people's] hopes for a dignified life,' the authority stated. It urged the public to verify procedures through official sources, including its website and app, or by contacting the designated call centre at 600522222. The ICP insisted that the Golden Visa framework remains unchanged: eligibility criteria, procedural regulations, and visa categories continue to be defined by UAE law and ministerial orders alone. The visa remains accessible only to those meeting these statutory provisions, and all processes must follow the established, government-operated digital platforms. This response comes amid a broader pattern of misinformation regarding Golden Visa eligibility. Earlier this month, another wave of misleading reports claimed investors in digital currencies—particularly in Toncoin—had qualified for a ten-year Golden Visa by staking cryptocurrency. In response, ICP, alongside the Securities and Commodities Authority and the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority, issued a joint statement rejecting those claims and reminded the public that cryptocurrency investment is not a recognised category for Golden Visa issuance. Under the official programme, Golden Visa eligibility remains targeted to specific categories: real-estate investors, entrepreneurs, exceptional talents, qualified professionals, scientists and researchers, high-performing graduates and students, frontline workers, humanitarian pioneers, and notable maritime asset holders. The ICP reaffirmed that these criteria are set in accordance with legal frameworks and are unchanged by the rumours. Despite the cross-border spread of misinformation, UAE authorities appear resolute in their commitment to transparency, integrity, and regulatory enforcement. The ICP has stated that all application processes must occur through official digital services, and only those platforms bear the authority to collect fees or accept documentation. Third-party entities claiming to facilitate visa applications risk legal consequences. ADVERTISEMENT Experts underscore the potential fallout from such false claims. 'Misleading promises fuel public confusion and pose reputational risks for the UAE's visa systems,' noted one legal analyst based in Dubai, requesting anonymity. Misinformation casts doubt on the authenticity of the Golden Visa programme and could encourage fraud. UAE authorities increasingly rely on legal measures and public advisories to counteract false narratives. The timing of this clarification aligns with heightened international interest in UAE residency schemes. In early July, news emerged that the UAE was piloting a streamlined lifetime Golden Visa pathway for Indian nationals under the UAE‑India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. Under the pilot, eligible Indian applicants could receive life-long residency without property investment, upon nomination and the payment of AED 100,000. This development appears to have driven a surge in media attention and consultation requests aimed at service providers. While the ICP has not confirmed or elaborated on a pilot programme specific to any nationality, it advised the public to seek information strictly through official platforms. Interested parties are encouraged to consult the ICP website or app for updates on visa categories, including any new arrangements introduced under international agreements. Signals from the UAE government reflect a dual strategy: expanding its talent- and investment-focused Golden Visa system, while firmly safeguarding procedural integrity. Through legislative collaboration, digital transformation, and cross-border trade agreements, the UAE continues to enhance its residency framework. However, officials remain vigilant against exploitation and fraudulent intermediaries. As the visa environment evolves, clarity from ICP and associated authorities remains vital. Their recent intervention serves to remind the public that any deviations from established criteria are unauthorised and legally questionable. For those pursuing Golden Visa status, due diligence and reliance on official channels are indispensable.
