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Vladyslava Garkusha News 21 October 2025

UAE Appoints Leadership for Inaugural Emirates Falcons International Cup

Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and President of the International Federation for Falconry Sports and Racing, has appointed Sheikh Zayed bin Hamad bin Hamdan Al Nahyan as Chairman of the Emirates Falcons International Cup.

Sheikh Zayed, who also serves as Vice President of both the UAE Falcons Federation and the International Federation for Falconry Sports and Racing, will oversee the newly launched international championship, which aims to promote falcon racing globally under the UAE’s leadership.

Sheikh Ahmed also directed the formation of the championship’s Supreme Organising Committee, to be chaired by Rashid bin Markhan, Secretary General of both federations. The committee will be responsible for the planning and execution of the event, which will be held annually in different countries, starting with Kuwait in December 2025.

Four subcommittees - Referees, Appeals, Technical, and Registration, Protocol and Logistics - will report to the Supreme Committee to ensure the operational delivery of the event.

The initiative is held under the directives of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President and Chairman of the Presidential Court, and under the patronage of Sheikh Ahmed. Organisers say the event reflects the UAE’s continued commitment to preserving and promoting traditional sports on a global stage.

The first edition will take place in Kuwait from December 4 to 7, featuring seven races in the Farkh category. The final race will see the top five falcons from each breed - Pure Jeer, Jeer Shaheen, Qarmoosha, and Jeer Taba - compete for total prize money of AED500,000.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko
Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

Vladyslava Garkusha News 21 October 2025

UAE Appoints Leadership for Inaugural Emirates Falcons International Cup

DEWA and IBM Explore Deeper Collaboration on Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity

Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Managing Director and CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), met with Ana Paula De Jesus Assis, Senior Vice President and Chair of IBM EMEA, to discuss advancing cooperation in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.

The meeting focused on aligning efforts to support Dubai’s digital transformation strategy and the goals outlined in the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which seeks to position the emirate among the world’s top digital economies.

Senior officials from DEWA attended the meeting, including Marwan Bin Haidar, Executive Vice President of Innovation and the Future; Waleed bin Salman, Executive Vice President of Business Development and Excellence; Mohammed Bin Sulaiman, CEO of Moro Hub - a subsidiary of Digital DEWA; and Moza Alshamsi, DEWA’s Chief Information Security Officer.

Al Tayer underscored DEWA’s commitment to strengthening strategic partnerships with global technology firms, with a focus on deploying advanced AI and cybersecurity systems. He outlined DEWA’s ongoing projects aimed at becoming the world’s first AI-native utility by integrating artificial intelligence across its core operations.

The discussions also reviewed existing collaboration between IBM and Moro Hub, including the use of IBM’s QRadar platform to support cybersecurity operations. Moro Hub, an IBM-certified Managed Services Partner, currently offers Security Operations Centre as a Service, enabling rapid threat response and continuous monitoring for clients.

Both parties are considering expanding their partnership to include AI applications through the IBM Watson platform, with a view to increasing operational efficiency, enhancing customer experience, and supporting broader digital transformation efforts.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko
Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

Vladyslava Garkusha News 21 October 2025

DEWA and IBM Explore Deeper Collaboration on Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity

Healthcare Future Summit 2025 to Convene in Dubai Under Sheikh Hamdan’s Patronage

Dubai will host the Healthcare Future Summit (HFS) 2025 at the Dubai World Trade Centre from October 21 to October 23, 2025. The event, which falls under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council, is expected to draw over 4,500 participants, including leading healthcare professionals, innovators, and corporate representatives from around the world.

The summit, supported by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), the World Federation of Public Health Associations (WFPHA), and the Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean (PAM), will be highlighted by a scientific agenda that spans more than 20 sessions and 50 lectures, featuring insights from over 70 expert speakers. Attendees can expect a robust two-track conference, offering a total of 17.25 continuing medical education (CME) credits.

A key feature of HFS 2025 will be the simultaneous hosting of the International Family Medicine Conference and Exhibition (IFM 2025) and the Annual Radiology Meeting (ARM). These co-located events will provide extensive opportunities for learning and networking, further establishing Dubai as a hub for medical and healthcare innovation.

The ARM 2025, marking its 10th edition, will advance its collaboration with the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA), presenting 24 scientific sessions across two dedicated halls. With over 85 expert speakers and more than 30 poster presentations, the meeting promises to deliver cutting-edge content and education. Attendees will have the opportunity to earn 21 CME credits while engaging with over 50 participating healthcare brands.

Meanwhile, the IFM 2025 will bring together family medicine practitioners, general practitioners, and other healthcare professionals to explore emerging trends in primary care. With more than 120 scientific poster presentations, the conference will cover advanced topics, including the role of artificial intelligence in diagnostics, gut health, integrative medicine, and palliative care. Over 45 experts will share their knowledge during the three-day event.

Additionally, the summit will feature the launch of a white paper outlining the UAE’s healthcare achievements and its strategies for sustainable growth. The document will be a key discussion point, offering insights into the country’s healthcare system and fostering collaborations among global healthcare stakeholders.

HFS 2025 promises to be a pivotal event for the global healthcare community, underscoring Dubai’s growing role as a leading destination for healthcare excellence.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko
Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

Vladyslava Garkusha News 21 October 2025

Healthcare Future Summit 2025 to Convene in Dubai Under Sheikh Hamdan’s Patronage

Dubai Regulates Delivery Motorcycles on High-Speed Lanes to Improve Road Safety

Beginning November 1, 2025, new regulations will restrict the movement of delivery motorcycles on high-speed roads across Dubai, in a joint initiative by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Dubai Police. The decision follows a sharp increase in traffic violations and accidents involving delivery riders, prompting authorities to implement targeted safety measures.

Under the new rules, delivery riders will be prohibited from using the two leftmost lanes on roads with five or more lanes and the leftmost lane on roads with three or four lanes. No restrictions will apply to roads with two lanes or fewer.

The policy is aimed at reducing traffic accidents involving motorcycles and ensuring the safety of riders and other road users. According to Dubai Police data, delivery motorcycles were involved in 962 traffic accidents in 2025, up from 854 the previous year. More than 78,000 traffic violations were issued to delivery riders in the first nine months of 2025 alone.

Hussain Al Banna, CEO of the Traffic and Roads Agency at RTA, said the new regulation is the result of extensive coordination with public and private sector partners. “The decision is based on detailed traffic studies and technical standards aligned with global best practices,” Al Banna said. “It supports the goals of Dubai’s Economic Agenda (D33) by improving safety while enabling continued growth in the delivery sector.”

Delivery riders caught violating the new lane restrictions will face escalating penalties: AED 500 for a first offence, AED 700 for a second, and permit suspension after a third. Speeding violations will also be penalized, starting at AED 200 for the first offence and rising to AED 400 by the third.

Major General Saif Muhair Al Mazrouei, Assistant Commander-in-Chief for Operations Affairs at Dubai Police, said the decision supports the emirate’s five-year Traffic Safety Strategy. “Motorcycles are among the most vulnerable vehicles on the road,” he said. “Restricting their access to high-speed lanes will improve traffic control and reduce serious accidents.”

Authorities will install new signage to indicate restricted lanes and will launch a public awareness campaign in coordination with delivery companies. Companies that demonstrate consistent compliance will be recognized under the “Delivery Sector Excellence Award,” part of an effort to promote higher safety standards and service quality in the industry.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko
Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

Vladyslava Garkusha News 20 October 2025

Dubai Regulates Delivery Motorcycles on High-Speed Lanes to Improve Road Safety

Dubai International Chamber Opens First Eastern Europe Office in Poland to Boost Bilateral Trade

The Dubai International Chamber has opened its first representative office in Eastern Europe, establishing a presence in Poland as part of a broader effort to expand trade and investment ties between Dubai and the region.

Located in Warsaw, the new office underscores Dubai’s strategic push to deepen international commercial relations, particularly with high-potential markets. The move is aligned with the emirate’s “Dubai Global” initiative, which aims to open 50 overseas offices by 2030 to support foreign direct investment inflows and help Dubai-based businesses expand into 30 priority international markets.

The inauguration ceremony in Warsaw was attended by H.E. Mohamed Ahmed Salem Farea Alharbi, the UAE’s Ambassador to Poland, and H.E. Michał Jaros, Secretary of State at Poland’s Ministry of Economic Development and Technology, alongside senior government officials and business leaders from both countries.

H.E. Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers, described the Warsaw office as a critical step in strengthening bilateral commercial ties. “It will help enhance connections between the business communities in both markets and stimulate the flow of mutual trade and investments,” Lootah said.

The launch comes amid growing economic engagement between the two markets. Dubai’s non-oil trade with Poland reached AED 7.2 billion in 2024, a 5% increase from the previous year. By the end of the first half of 2025, 453 Polish companies were registered as active members of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, including 86 that joined in the first six months of the year alone.

The new office is tasked with facilitating market access and expanding economic cooperation. It will offer support to Polish companies looking to establish or grow their presence in Dubai, while also assisting Dubai-based firms seeking entry into the Polish market. Services will include market intelligence, business matchmaking, and regulatory guidance.

Officials say the office will play a central role in promoting Dubai’s position as a global business hub and in attracting Polish investment to the emirate.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko
Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

Vladyslava Garkusha News 20 October 2025

Dubai International Chamber Opens First Eastern Europe Office in Poland to Boost Bilateral Trade

Emirates Launches Airbus A350 and Premium Economy Service in Oslo

Emirates has introduced its Airbus A350 aircraft on the Oslo-Dubai route, marking the debut of its Premium Economy product in Scandinavia. The move reflects the airline’s ongoing investment in the Norwegian market and its broader effort to expand premium offerings across its network.

The A350 service brings Emirates’ latest cabin designs to Oslo, including updated Business Class, Premium Economy, and Economy Class interiors. The aircraft now operates daily on the EK159/160 route, providing passengers in Norway with upgraded options when traveling to Dubai and onward to more than 145 destinations worldwide.

Since launching flights to Oslo in 2014, Emirates has become a key carrier for Norwegian travelers heading to the Middle East, Asia, Africa, and Australia. The addition of the A350 signals a new phase in the airline’s strategy to grow market share in Northern Europe.

To mark the occasion, Emirates held an official event at Oslo Airport, attended by airline executives and local officials, including Pierfrancesco Carino, Emirates Vice President for Commercial Operations in North and West Europe; Terje Grue, Country Manager for Norway; and Majid Al Matrooshi from the UAE Embassy in Norway. Also present were Ståle Lien Hansen, Mayor of Ullensaker Municipality, and Dorothy Billett, Senior Vice President for Terminal Operations at Avinor.

“This is an important step in strengthening our presence in the market,” said Grue. “Travellers from Oslo will now be able to enjoy an entirely new level of comfort, whether flying to Dubai or beyond.”

Premium Economy, featured on the A350, offers 40 inches of seat pitch, an 8-inch recline, adjustable headrests, and full leg and footrests. Seats are upholstered in cream leather with fold-out woodgrain tables and 13.3-inch personal screens. Amenities include in-seat charging, amenity kits on select flights, and a globally exclusive sparkling wine, Chandon Vintage Brut 2017.

The A350’s introduction adds capacity while enhancing the onboard experience, targeting a growing segment of travelers seeking elevated service without the cost of full Business Class.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko
Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

Vladyslava Garkusha News 20 October 2025

Emirates Launches Airbus A350 and Premium Economy Service in Oslo

Dubai Strengthens Position as MEASA’s Leading Global Financial Hub

Dubai has reinforced its status as the leading financial center in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia (MEASA), driven by sustained growth in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and key milestones across regulation, financial services, and dispute resolution.

The DIFC has now surpassed 8,000 active registered companies, with more than 1,000 entities regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), the Centre’s independent regulator. As of this year, the DIFC Courts have recorded more than AED 17.5 billion in total case values, reflecting increasing demand for the jurisdiction’s legal services.

According to the latest Global Financial Centres Index, Dubai has advanced to 11th place worldwide, maintaining its position as the top financial hub in the region and ranking among the world’s top four FinTech centers.

Officials emphasize the alignment of DIFC’s growth with the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), a roadmap for economic transformation and diversification. DIFC Governor Essa Kazim stated the Centre is supporting sustainable economic development by attracting international firms and talent, while offering a robust legal and regulatory environment.

Since its founding in 2004, the DIFC has operated through three independent bodies - the DIFC Authority, DFSA, and DIFC Courts - providing companies with legal certainty, regulatory oversight, and business agility. This structure has positioned Dubai as a gateway for financial institutions seeking access to the MEASA region’s 72 markets.

Today, DIFC hosts the region’s largest financial ecosystem, employing over 48,000 professionals across banking, capital markets, insurance, and asset management. Of its 289 licensed banking and capital markets firms, 27 are globally systemically important banks. Collectively, these firms manage approximately USD 240 billion in banking assets from the Centre - a nearly 200% increase over the past decade.

Mark Steward, Chief Executive of the DFSA, emphasized the importance of a strong regulatory framework, highlighting that over 1,000 financial entities now fall under DFSA oversight - the highest concentration in the region. He noted that firms are drawn to DIFC to connect with global capital and access new growth markets.

To maintain its competitiveness, the DFSA is evolving its funds regime to support hedge funds, alternative investments, and wealth management platforms, further positioning DIFC as a preferred destination for institutional finance.

In the legal domain, the DIFC Courts continue to lead as the region’s premier English-language commercial court. Chief Justice Wayne Martin noted a consistent rise in claim values and complexity, particularly in opt-in cases, reinforcing confidence in the Courts' capability and enforceability across the UAE and the wider Gulf region.

DIFC CEO Arif Amiri concluded that surpassing 8,000 registered companies is a direct result of Dubai’s strategic approach to financial services, innovation, and economic diversification. "We are shaping the global financial landscape from Dubai, while enabling the region’s digital and economic future."

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Alexander Agafiev Macambira
Alexander Agafiev Macambira is former tech contributing writer for Forbes Monaco.

Vladyslava Garkusha News 20 October 2025

Dubai Strengthens Position as MEASA’s Leading Global Financial Hub

1,700 Students from 45 Dubai Schools Join Second Sheikh Rashid bin Mohammed Quran Competition

A total of 1,700 students from 45 public and private schools across Dubai have registered for the second edition of the Sheikh Rashid bin Mohammed Al Maktoum Quran Competition, a growing initiative under the “Ghiras Al-Khair” program. The competition is organized in partnership between the Dubai Department of Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities and the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA).

The competition, which promotes Quran memorization and recitation among youth, has seen significant engagement from students, educators, and families. Participation has grown notably since its inaugural edition, prompting organizers to extend the registration deadline to November 10, 2025.

Officials attribute the increase in participation to strong collaboration between schools and parents, as well as the sustained efforts of teaching staff to prepare students for the various stages of the competition. The initiative aims to develop memorization skills, elevate recitation standards, and foster a spirit of constructive competition among young people in line with national values.

Abdullah Abubakr Baslaa, the competition’s coordinator, said the turnout reflects the deep-rooted connection between the Emirati community and the Quran. He noted that continuous improvements have been made to the competition’s framework to ensure fairness, raise performance standards, and expand its impact on youth development.

Final rounds of the competition are scheduled for January 2026 and will be held under the supervision of the Dubai Department of Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities. Students will compete across four categories: Quran Memorization, Most Beautiful Recitation for Emirati Citizens, Memorization of Tajweed Texts, and Memorization of Scientific Texts. Participants range from Grade 1 through Grade 12, with a dedicated category for students with intellectual disabilities, underscoring the initiative’s inclusive approach.

The Department emphasized that the initiative supports Dubai’s broader educational and social goals by reinforcing religious and moral values and nurturing a generation anchored in both cultural identity and faith.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko
Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

Vladyslava Garkusha News 20 October 2025

1,700 Students from 45 Dubai Schools Join Second Sheikh Rashid bin Mohammed Quran Competition

Sheikh Maktoum Meets World Economic Forum President During Dubai Council Meetings

Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai and UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, met on Wednesday with Børge Brende, President and CEO of the World Economic Forum (WEF), during the Annual Meetings of the Global Future Councils and Cybersecurity 2025.

The three-day event, taking place from October 14 to 16, is jointly organized by the UAE Government and the WEF, and hosted in Dubai.

The meeting was attended by key UAE officials, including Mohammad Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs and Co-Chair of the Global Future Councils; Mohamed bin Hadi Al Hussaini, Minister of State for Financial Affairs; Ohood Al Roumi, Minister of State for Government Development and the Future; and Khalfan Belhoul, CEO of the Dubai Future Foundation.

Discussions focused on the UAE’s strategic partnership with the World Economic Forum, with emphasis on this year’s core agenda items: artificial intelligence, the green economy, energy transition, and food and water security.

Sheikh Maktoum was also briefed on the outcomes of the meetings, including the launch of the Cybersecurity Forum, which aims to enhance global coordination in addressing digital threats and developing secure digital systems.

He reiterated the UAE’s commitment to fostering international collaboration and policy dialogue, aimed at practical solutions to global challenges and long-term sustainable development.

Brende acknowledged the UAE’s leadership and its role in hosting the Global Future Councils, describing it as a model for advancing inclusive and sustainable progress.

The 2025 edition brings together over 700 experts from 580 organizations across 93 countries. The program includes 37 councils, covering key sectors such as technology, economy, governance, environment, society, and health. Findings will inform discussions at the upcoming WEF Annual Meeting in Davos.

In a first, the Annual Meeting of the Cybersecurity Council is being held concurrently, featuring over 150 senior leaders and 90 international speakers.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko
Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

Vladyslava Garkusha News 17 October 2025

Sheikh Maktoum Meets World Economic Forum President During Dubai Council Meetings

Dubai Crown Prince Meets Indian Unicorn Founders to Deepen Economic Cooperation

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council, met this week with more than 40 Indian entrepreneurs—founders and CEOs of unicorn companies—during a high-level session held as part of the World Governments Summit – Griffin Dialogue.

The delegation, members of the Griffin Club for Indian Billionaire Entrepreneurs, represents some of the most influential start-ups operating in sectors including fintech, education, healthcare, space, retail, logistics, and advanced technology.

The meeting was also attended by Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai and UAE Minister of Finance, alongside other senior officials, including Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, and Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism.

Sheikh Hamdan emphasized Dubai’s commitment to fostering international partnerships, calling cross-sector and cross-border collaboration “central to the city’s future-focused economic model.” He reiterated that under the leadership of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai continues to evolve as a global hub for investment, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

Participants discussed policy frameworks and investment conditions that have enabled unicorn growth, highlighting Dubai’s digital infrastructure, regulatory flexibility, and efficient government services as key factors in enabling expansion. Discussions also covered global trends in AI, the digital economy, and the future of start-up ecosystems.

The session sought to identify new pathways for cooperation between governments and private enterprise, with a focus on scaling innovation and building knowledge-based economies.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko
Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

Vladyslava Garkusha News 17 October 2025

Dubai Crown Prince Meets Indian Unicorn Founders to Deepen Economic Cooperation

Dubai to Host 2025 Asia Pacific Cities Summit & Mayors’ Forum, Welcoming Global Urban Leaders to Shape Future Cities

Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, the 2025 Asia Pacific Cities Summit (2025APCS) & Mayors’ Forum will be held from October 27 to 29 at Expo City Dubai. The event marks the first time the Summit is hosted in the Middle East.

The summit is expected to bring together over 150 mayors and delegations from more than 300 cities, alongside policymakers, investors, business leaders, academics and young professionals. Discussions will focus on sustainable urban development, affordable housing, infrastructure, climate resilience, digital innovation, and economic inclusion.

Key urban challenges—including the pressure of rapid urbanisation—will be addressed through new policy commitments and project announcements. Participating cities will introduce initiatives that promote investment, digital transformation and smarter infrastructure, with a spotlight on trade and business opportunities in fast-growing urban markets.

Dubai Municipality will unveil major projects aligned with sustainability and intercity collaboration. Additionally, the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games will present details of its procurement programme.

Her Excellency Reem Al Hashimy, UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation and CEO of Expo City Dubai Authority, said the event reinforces Expo City’s legacy as a platform to address global challenges. “We are honoured to once again welcome the world to Dubai,” she stated.

His Excellency Abdulla Al Basti, Secretary General of The Executive Council of Dubai, highlighted Dubai’s role in advancing sustainable urban models, calling the city “a symbol of global cooperation and continuous progress.”

High-level participation will include Adrian Schrinner, Lord Mayor of Brisbane, as well as mayors and officials from cities such as Abuja, Fortaleza, Jaipur, Karachi, Montpellier and Rabat. Speakers include Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais, Secretary-General Elect of UN Tourism (2026–2030); Dr. Nawal Al Hosany, UAE’s Permanent Representative to IRENA; and Jeong-kee Kim, Secretary-General of WeGo. South African architect Sumayya Vally and AI expert Mo Gawdat are also scheduled to speak.

The event will also present findings from the 2025 Urban Readiness Report, a joint initiative between Expo City Dubai and YouGov. The report outlines the pressures faced by city leaders to balance essential service delivery with long-term resilience.

Dedicated forums during the summit include the Dubai Real Estate Business Forum, hosted with the Dubai Land Department, and a closed-door Mayors’ Forum facilitated by the Milken Institute. The latter will produce a final Mayors’ Accord, outlining shared principles and collaborative strategies for sustainable urban growth.

2025APCS is delivered by Expo City Dubai in partnership with the Brisbane City Council.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Alexander Agafiev Macambira
Alexander Agafiev Macambira is former tech contributing writer for Forbes Monaco.

Vladyslava Garkusha News 17 October 2025

Dubai to Host 2025 Asia Pacific Cities Summit & Mayors’ Forum, Welcoming Global Urban Leaders to Shape Future Cities

Dubai Finance and du Launch Centralised Platform to Streamline Public Service Communication

The Department of Finance (DOF) for the Government of Dubai has launched the Unified Contact Centre (UCC), a centralised digital platform aimed at consolidating government communication services across the emirate. Developed in partnership with du, the UAE-based telecommunications provider, the project represents a significant step in the emirate’s broader strategy to modernize public service delivery.

Announced during GITEX Global 2025, the initiative is part of Dubai’s "Services 360" vision, which seeks to create a fully integrated and customer-focused model of government service. Once fully operational in 2027, the UCC will bring together 15 government entities under a unified framework.

The platform will centralize access to support and information via multiple channels — including phone, email, messaging apps, websites, and social media — within a single digital ecosystem. It is underpinned by AI and data analytics technologies designed to deliver efficient, personalized, and proactive interactions with the public.

Officials say the UCC will streamline communication, eliminate redundancies across departments, and enhance service consistency. “This initiative lays the foundation for a truly interconnected government ecosystem,” said Abdulrahman Saleh Al Saleh, Director General of DOF, following the agreement signing with Ahmad Abdulkarim Julfar, Vice Chairman of du.

The infrastructure, provided by du, includes customer experience management systems and digital tools aimed at improving response times and service quality. “The UCC exemplifies how strategic collaboration between the public and private sectors can set new standards in service delivery,” said Fahad Al Hassawi, CEO of du.

The project will be implemented in phases starting in 2026, with priority entities joining first. Oversight will remain with DOF to ensure alignment with government objectives. In addition to consolidating communication, the centre will feature a centralized knowledge base and data-driven performance tools aligned with the Dubai Model Centre’s excellence standards.

The Unified Contact Centre reflects Dubai’s commitment to integrated governance, aiming to provide residents, visitors, and businesses with a seamless, accessible, and intelligent interface for government services.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko
Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

Vladyslava Garkusha News 17 October 2025

Dubai Finance and du Launch Centralised Platform to Streamline Public Service Communication

DP World Launches Direct Jebel Ali–Berbera Shipping Route, Strengthening Gulf–East Africa Trade Links

The direct shipping line, operating every nine days, includes scheduled stops at Aden and Djibouti. It is designed to streamline regional supply chains and improve cargo transit into East Africa, particularly landlocked Ethiopia. The service aims to provide more predictable shipping timelines and reduce reliance on longer overland routes and congested regional corridors.

Berbera Port, situated on the Gulf of Aden, has undergone extensive development under DP World's stewardship. The port now features a 1,050-meter quay, including a 400-meter berth capable of accommodating Triple E vessels, along with advanced bulk and breakbulk cargo facilities. It also includes the Berbera Special Economic Zone (BSEZ), intended to support regional industrialization and attract foreign investment.

DP World holds a 58.5% stake in the container and general cargo terminal at Berbera and has been instrumental in positioning the port as a key logistics hub. Since assuming operational control in 2017, the company reports vessel productivity has increased by 450%, container volumes by 30%, and general cargo throughput by 90%. Berbera currently handles over 14 container vessels monthly, with an annual capacity of 500,000 TEUs and expansion plans underway to quadruple capacity to 2 million TEUs.

Ganesh Raj, Group Chief Operating Officer for Marine Services at DP World, said the new service complements the company’s broader investment strategy in Africa, which includes nearly $3 billion in current and planned port and logistics infrastructure across the continent. "This service enhances connectivity for our customers as we continue to build sustainable trade corridors between the Middle East and East Africa," he said.

Berbera also plays a central role in the region's livestock trade, handling over 4 million heads annually—a sector valued at over $1 billion. Inland connectivity improvements, including a 250 km road to Ethiopia and the 22.5 km Hargeisa Bypass, have further expanded the port's reach. These upgrades were supported by the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development and the UK’s Department for International Development.

Supachai Wattanaveerachai, CEO of DP World Horn of Africa, called the launch a milestone for the region. “Our work in Berbera is already stimulating trade and industry while supporting wider community development,” he said. “This service strengthens Berbera’s position as a strategic gateway to East Africa’s future growth.”

With the Jebel Ali–Berbera service now in operation, DP World reinforces its position as a key player in reshaping trade flows across the Horn of Africa, providing alternatives to traditional routes and supporting regional ambitions for diversified and resilient infrastructure.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko
Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.