Latest from Gulf Business
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Brand Dubai launches guide to top indoor sports venues this summer
Image: Dubai Media Office Brand Dubai, the creative arm of the Government of Dubai Media Office, has launched a new interactive guide highlighting some of the city's top indoor sports destinations, encouraging residents and visitors to stay active throughout the summer. Released under the ongoing #DubaiDestinations summer campaign, the guide features a wide range of family-friendly venues where people of all ages can enjoy sports in air-conditioned comfort. Activities include football, volleyball, basketball, padel, spin cycling, martial arts, yoga, indoor golf, bowling and ice skating. The initiative aims to reinforce Dubai's reputation as one of the world's most vibrant and activity-focused cities—even during its hottest months. Khawla Al Hashmi, member of the organising committee of the #DubaiDestinations Campaign, said: 'Brand Dubai's latest guide highlights indoor venues designed for all ages, offering opportunities for everyone to enjoy their favourite sports while also featuring destinations that give children more space to make the most of their summer break. The campaign uses these guides to showcase experiences that appeal to a wide audience, helping residents, families and visitors discover fresh ways to enjoy Dubai's summer offerings. Content creators continue to play a key role in bringing these destinations to life through engaging storytelling, inspiring more people across the UAE and beyond to explore what the city has to offer.' Khawla Al Hashmi, member of the organising committee of the #DubaiDestinations Campaign. Indoor destinations Among the destinations featured are several indoor ice-skating rinks, including popular spots at Al Nasr Leisureland, The Dubai Mall, Sports Society Mall, Galleria Ice Rink at Hyatt Regency Dubai and Emirates Sports Hotel. These venues are a popular draw during the hotter months, offering a cool alternative for sports and leisure. The guide also lists indoor bowling centres located across the city—ideal for families, groups of friends or casual games in a relaxed setting. Inside Museum of the Future. Indoor football remains a top pick for many, with over a dozen air-conditioned venues included. These facilities offer enthusiasts a chance to enjoy the sport year-round in a well-equipped and climate-controlled environment. Running through the end of July, the #DubaiDestinations campaign continues to spotlight the best experiences the city has to offer during the summer. Community engagement remains a key component, with residents and tourists encouraged to share their own stories, images and tips on how they enjoy an active summer in Dubai. The indoor sports destination guide is available in both English and Arabic and can be accessed here:
Gulf Business
an hour ago
- Business
- Gulf Business
New job rules in Oman: These roles now require a permit
Image credit: Getty Images The Ministry of Labour has introduced new regulations requiring mandatory professional certification for work permits in both the accounting and engineering sectors in Oman. The move is part of a broader initiative to standardise qualifications, enhance professional competency, and support the Sultanate's national workforce development goals, Read- Effective August 1, 2025, the ministry will no longer issue or renew work permits for individuals working Similarly, starting September 1, 2025, individuals employed or seeking employment in accounting, finance, and auditing positions must obtain a Professional Classification Certificate from the Sector Skills Unit for Accounting, Finance, and Auditing. This certificate will be a mandatory requirement for the issuance and renewal of work permits in the financial sector. The Ministry emphasised that no work permits will be issued or renewed after the respective deadlines without the required certificates. All employers and professionals are urged to initiate the necessary steps to comply with the new regulations ahead of time to avoid disruptions in employment status. The following roles in the accounting and finance sector will require professional certification: Accounts Technician Assistant External Auditor Assistant Internal Auditor Internal Auditor External Auditor Cost Accountant Credit Analyst Financial Analyst Accounts Manager Tax Manager Chief Financial Officer (CFO) External Audit Manager Internal Audit Manager Senior Internal Audit Manager Financial Controller Senior External Audit Manager Head of Internal Audit Department Chief Financial Officer (CFO) External Audit Partner Chief Audit Executive The ministry has made it clear that no exceptions will be made after the enforcement dates. These changes are expected to elevate the standards of professional practice and ensure that only qualified individuals are employed in key technical and financial roles across the Sultanate.
Gulf Business
4 hours ago
- Business
- Gulf Business
UAE-based Global Hotel Alliance reports continued growth in H1 2025
Image: GHA Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), the Dubai-based collective of independent hotel brands, reported solid growth in H1 2025, fuelled by a surge in international travel and a strong Q2 performance. Revenues for the group's member hotels reached $1.5bn for the six months ending June 30, up 17 per cent year-on-year from $1.3bn in H1 2024. International stays, which continue to form the backbone of GHA's business, accounted for 70 per cent of room revenues, climbing 21 per cent year-on-year to $810m. The group noted that the United States remained the top source market for international bookings, contributing 15 per cent of all room revenues. The UK, Germany, China and Australia followed as key feeder markets. The most popular destinations for GHA DISCOVERY loyalty members in H1 were led by the UAE, followed by Thailand, Spain, Singapore and Italy. GHA's 850-plus properties also saw strong Q2 performance, which supported the positive H1 results. Hotel revenues rose 18 per cent year-on-year in Q2, while room nights increased by 19 per cent. Countries with the highest average daily rates during the quarter included the Maldives, the UK, Japan and Fiji. Cross-brand revenues – generated when members stay at hotels outside their primary brand – rose 18 per cent in Q2 to $94.7m, contributing to a total of $188.8m for the first half of the year, up 15 per cent from H1 2024. Direct bookings through GHA's digital platforms increased by 19 per cent in H1, a gain that helps member hotels reduce reliance on third-party platforms with higher commission costs. Global Hotel Alliance's loyalty programme sees 16 per cent YoY rise The group's loyalty programme, Use of the programme's rewards currency, DISCOVERY Dollars (D$), also surged, with redemptions jumping 61 per cent in Q2 compared to the same period last year. GHA added 48 new properties to its portfolio in the first six months of 2025, including hotels from newly joined brands such as Cheval Collection and Cinnamon Hotels. The expansion reinforces GHA's presence across Asia, the UK and the Middle East. 'With demand for international travel continuing to rise, our hotel brands are reaping the benefit of belonging to a truly global alliance. GHA DISCOVERY members are travelling further, staying longer, and booking directly, driving hotel profitability across our portfolio,' said Chris Hartley, CEO of Global Hotel Alliance. 'These results reflect the trust members place in GHA DISCOVERY and the strength of collaboration across our expanding network of brands and hotels. Even amid ongoing market uncertainty, the momentum we've built – supported by new brands and hotels joining the alliance – positions us well for a strong and resilient second half of the year,' he added. Read:
Gulf Business
4 hours ago
- Business
- Gulf Business
Bayut: Abu Dhabi real estate continues to attract strong investor interest in H1 2025
Bayut, UAE's property portal, has released its analysis of search and pricing trends in Abu Dhabi's real estate market for the first half of 2025. The data highlights the capital's continued momentum as a stable and high-return investment destination, supported by infrastructure development and investor-focused government policies. Property buying trends in Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi's real estate market has shown resilience and strong growth in the first half of 2025, attracting investors across segments: Affordable properties : Buyers looking for budget-friendly options focused on areas like Al Reef, Al Ghadeer, Khalifa City, and Al Shamkha. Mid-tier interest : Al Reem Island, Masdar City, Al Raha Gardens, and Al Samha were popular among mid-tier investors. Luxury segment : Yas Island and Saadiyat Island remained top picks for premium buyers, further boosted by announcements like Disneyland Abu Dhabi. Listing prices reflected the demand: Affordable apartment prices rose by up to 7 per cent, while villa prices increased by as much as 5 per cent. Mid-tier apartment prices appreciated between 6 per cent and 11 per cent. Villas saw notable gains in Al Samha (up 26.7 per cent) and Al Raha Gardens (up 2.68 per cent), though Baniyas recorded a slight 1.45 per cent dip. Luxury apartment prices on Yas Island and Saadiyat Island climbed by up to 17 per cent. Villa prices in this segment increased 5 per cent to 10 per cent, except for Al Jubail Island, where prices declined 17.8 per cent amid shifting investor focus. Rental yields in Abu Dhabi Rental yields remained attractive across all segments: Affordable apartments : Al Reef led with 9.33 per cent, followed by Al Ghadeer at 8.45 per cent. Mid-tier apartments : Masdar City (8.41 per cent) and Al Reem Island (7.59 per cent) delivered strong returns. Luxury apartments : Yas Island (7.15 per cent) and Al Raha Beach (6.58 per cent) performed well. Villas : Al Reef (6.34 per cent) topped affordable villas, while Al Raha Gardens (6.17 per cent) and Al Samha (5.75 per cent) led mid-tier returns. Yas Island offered 5.46 per cent for premium villas. Off-plan project preferences Off-plan developments attracted significant interest: Affordable apartments : Al Reeman 1 (Al Shamkha) and Bloom Living (Zayed City) were top choices. Mid-tier : Yas Bay attracted demand. Luxury : Nawayef Park Views (Hudayriat Island) stood out for high-end buyers. Villas : Affordable options included Bloom Living, Al Reeman 2, and Reportage Village Abu Dhabi. Mid-tier villa buyers leaned toward Yas Acres and Al Jurf Gardens, while luxury demand was high for Nawayef West and Saadiyat Lagoons. Read: Rental trends in H1 2025 Population growth and expat demand kept rental activity strong: Affordable rentals : Khalifa City, Al Shamkha, and Shakhbout City remained popular for families. Mid-tier : Tenants preferred Al Reem Island and Al Khalidiyah for apartments, and Al Raha Gardens and Al Muroor for villas. Luxury segment : Yas Island and Saadiyat Island continued to dominate demand. Rental price changes varied: Affordable apartment rents rose 2 per cent to 21 per cent, with 2-bedroom units in Al Nahyan seeing the sharpest increase. Mid-tier apartment rents climbed 3 per cent to 68 per cent, led by studio units in the Tourist Club Area. Luxury apartment rents increased 3 per cent to 14 per cent across most districts, though some units on Saadiyat Island saw slight declines. Villa rents in affordable districts rose by up to 13 per cent, mid-tier areas saw increases up to 7 per cent, and luxury villa rents saw mixed movement. While 4-bedroom units in Saadiyat Island and Al Bateen rose by 7 per cent, 5-bedroom villas in Saadiyat and Yas Islands dropped by 6 per cent. Market outlook Commenting on the findings, Haider Ali Khan, CEO of Bayut, CEO of Dubizzle Group MENA, and Board Member of the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, said: 'Abu Dhabi's real estate market has been on a steady upward path this year, and the interest we're seeing speaks for itself with over 9.3 million visits recorded on Bayut's Abu Dhabi listings in just six months. With strong demand and smart initiatives such as ADREC's Madhmoun boosting transparency, the capital is shaping up to be a really exciting space for both homebuyers and investors. All signs point to Abu Dhabi emerging as one of the most exciting and future-ready real estate destinations in the region.'
Gulf Business
4 hours ago
- Business
- Gulf Business
Must know: 6 ways that the UAE is using AI to serve its people
Image credit: Supplied Artificial intelligence is at the heart of the UAE's government modernisation agenda. AI is projected to contribute nearly 14 per cent of the UAE's GDP by 2030, according to global estimates, and the nation is acting swiftly to unlock its full potential. The following six areas exemplify how the UAE government is already putting AI to work to reshape public services. Read- 1. Virtual assistants for round-the-clock public support AI-powered virtual assistants are increasingly present on government platforms, handling a wide range of citizen queries. These bots use natural language processing and machine learning to deliver instant, 24/7 support. From helping residents navigate forms to answering real-time questions, these tools reduce wait times and improve user satisfaction. Chatbots and avatars are active across various government ministries, streamlining service delivery and enabling human staff to focus on more complex, value-added issues. 2. Metaverse-based government offices In a regional first, the Ministry of Economy has launched a fully interactive metaverse office—a virtual replica of its headquarters in Abu Dhabi. Through this platform, users can attend meetings, network, and even sign legally binding documents, all from remote locations. This initiative combines convenience with innovation. Virtual ticketing, avatar-based interactions, and audio-enabled services create a next-generation user experience that showcases the UAE's commitment to accessible, always-on governance. 3. AI in urban planning and infrastructure development Dubai Municipality is deploying AI tools such as Building Information Modelling (BIM) and geospatial analytics to revolutionize urban planning. These technologies enable smarter resource allocation, greener building design, and enhanced sustainability outcomes. By using AI to cut design times by up to 40 per cent and improve efficiency by 35 per cent, the municipality is leading the way in AI-driven city building. These efforts align with national sustainability goals and position Dubai as a model for smart infrastructure globally. 4. Predictive analytics for smarter service delivery The Digital Dubai Authority has pioneered data governance frameworks that underpin predictive AI models. These models analyze vast datasets to anticipate public service demands—from traffic flow to healthcare requirements—and guide real-time decisions. By moving from reactive to proactive governance, AI enables more effective resource distribution and personalized citizen engagement, thereby increasing trust in public services. 5. Automation of licensing and legal services The UAE's Legislative Intelligence Office is using AI to map national laws, monitor court rulings, and recommend legislative updates in real time. This could reduce policy drafting timelines by as much as 70 per cent. AI legal bots are also becoming increasingly accessible to the public. From helping residents navigate family law to linking with global legal standards, these tools ensure improved access to justice and more agile regulatory responses. 6. AI-Powered virtual employees supporting the judiciary 'Aisha', a generative AI assistant developed by the Ministry of Justice, is setting a new standard for legal support. It provides real-time legal advice, drafts court applications, and even generates multimedia explanations based on a deep legal knowledge base. Stationed in courts, Aisha supports both legal professionals and the public. Meanwhile, private companies such as Shaffra are deploying virtual employees to handle tasks like data entry and customer service, improving output and job satisfaction across sectors. 'Some clients report a 40 per cent increase in output after implementing AI solutions,' says Alfred Manasseh, COO & co-founder of Shaffra. UAE on its way to become a global leader in AI The United Arab Emirates has made its ambition clear: to become a global leader in artificial intelligence (AI) by 2031. This vision, outlined in the national AI Strategy, is not merely aspirational—it is backed by structured initiatives, concrete objectives, and a robust multi-stakeholder approach to implementation. Aligned with the UAE Centennial 2071 vision, which aims to position the nation as the best country in the world by its 100th anniversary, the AI Strategy is a cornerstone of long-term national transformation. The UAE's multinational, tech-forward population forms a strong foundation for this transformation. As early adopters of emerging technologies, the country's communities are well-positioned to support, pilot, and scale AI innovations, attracting global talent to conduct research and drive implementation on UAE soil. 8 strategic pillars driving the UAE AI strategy The AI Strategy outlines eight core objectives that guide implementation across sectors: Build a reputation as an AI destination: Establish the UAE as a hub for AI development, research, and innovation. Increase competitive edge in key sectors: Apply AI to boost productivity and global competitiveness in priority industries. Create a fertile AI ecosystem: Encourage entrepreneurship, research collaboration, and innovation through enabling environments. Enhance customer services with AI: Leverage AI to improve citizen experiences and government efficiency. Attract and train AI talent: Develop a future-ready workforce capable of thriving in an AI-driven job market. Advance research collaborations: Link world-class AI research to the needs of critical national industries. B uild supporting infrastructure and data systems: Provide accessible data and smart infrastructure to test, scale, and refine AI solutions. Ensure strong governance and regulation: Uphold ethical AI practices with clear laws, data privacy standards, and regulatory oversight. Economic Impact: AI as a regional powerhouse According to a The Middle East is expected to claim approximately 2 per cent of this global AI dividend, equivalent to $320 billion by 2030. Notably, the UAE and Saudi Arabia are leading the regional AI charge: Saudi Arabia is projected to accrue $135.2bn in AI-related gains, accounting for 4 per cent of its GDP. The UAE is expected to see the largest relative impact, with AI contributing nearly 14 per cent of its 2030 GDP. This impressive growth—estimated at 20–34 per cent annually—is fueled by substantial investment in AI R&D, innovation infrastructure, and public-private collaboration. Both countries rank in the top 50 globally on the Global Innovation Index, a reflection of their focused efforts to become future-ready economies through advanced technologies. Looking ahead: A region poised for disruption AI is not just transforming how governments function—it's disrupting entire markets and reshaping business models. The current wave of digitization is only the beginning. With AI in play, tomorrow's regional leaders may be startups or companies that don't yet exist today. By setting a strong strategic foundation, the UAE is seizing its moment in the AI revolution. With the right nurturing, public policy, and innovation support, the nation could unlock even greater economic returns and establish itself as a global model for AI-driven transformation. In a world where technological evolution is constant, the UAE's proactive, inclusive, and far-sighted approach to AI stands as a bold blueprint for others to follow.
