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The United Arab Emirates has formally approved the creation of the Artificial Intelligence and Data Authority, a centralized federal body designed to consolidate the nation’s digital governance, public data infrastructure, and machine-learning capabilities.

The initiative, announced by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the U.A.E. and Ruler of Dubai, will streamline the country's technology portfolio by merging operations previously managed by three separate entities: the Office of Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications; the Digital Government Sector at the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority; and the UAE Data Office.

The newly formed authority will report directly to the U.A.E. Cabinet. Omar Sultan Al Olama, the Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, has been appointed as its chairman.

According to government directives, the authority is tasked with drafting national public policies, proposing legislation, and standardizing the integration of "agentic" AI systems - autonomous software models capable of executing complex tasks independently - across federal and local government sectors.

Architects of the policy state that the consolidation aims to leverage data assets to accelerate state decision-making, eliminate administrative redundancies, and expand the digital economy's contribution to the nation’s gross domestic product. The regulatory mandate also extends to overseeing national cyber security protocols, managing cross-agency data sharing, and establishing bilateral international partnerships in tech regulation.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Andrew Shelepnytsky

Andrew Shelepnytsky is an Editor of Dubai Voice.

Hellmann Worldwide Logistics and INDU Group have broken ground on a new 300,000-square-foot automotive logistics facility within the Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza). The development aims to address rising regional demand for resilient automotive supply chains and to accelerate spare parts distribution across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Africa.

The specialized facility, developed by INDU Logistics, will integrate high-density bin storage, pallet racking, and dedicated areas for oversized components. Operating as a dedicated hub within Hellmann’s Middle East network, the infrastructure is designed to accommodate high-volume trade flows between Europe, Asia, and Africa.

According to Lee I’Ons, Regional CEO IMEA for Hellmann Worldwide Logistics, the investment systematically expands the company's regional capabilities in the United Arab Emirates, which remains a strategically important market for its global network.

Abdulla Al Hashmi, Global Chief Operating Officer of Parks and Economic Zones at DP World, noted that the expansion reflects rapid growth in the Middle Eastern automotive sector, where market demands increasingly require faster, more reliable access to critical inventory. Jafza continues to leverage its proximity to Jebel Ali Port and multimodal connectivity to anchor high-value supply chains in the region.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Alexander Agafiev

Alexander Agafiev is former tech contributing writer for Forbes Monaco.

The Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC), a global business district home to over 26,000 companies, has launched a new acceleration initiative aimed at reducing operating costs and enhancing cash flow for its members. The measures include a suite of fee waivers, regulatory flexibilities, and financial incentives designed to bolster long-term competitiveness amid shifting market conditions.

The package introduces tiered incentives for licence renewals, offering discounts of 15% for two-year commitments, 20% for three years, and 25% for five-year agreements. Existing members looking to scale operations can also access a 20% discount on additional licences. To further reduce administrative overhead, the DMCC is waiving specific late-payment penalties, including up to AED 5,000 for overdue licence renewals and AED 1,000 for delayed Business Centre lease renewals. Additionally, non-Flexi Desk members may transition to Flexi Desk arrangements without incurring standard security deposit or change-of-address fees.

Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman and CEO of DMCC, stated that the initiative is intended to provide greater operational flexibility and streamline administrative processes to help members manage resources more efficiently.

The incentive program also extends to new business formation. New entrants are eligible for a 10% discount on one-year licence packages and 20% on multi-year setups. Furthermore, companies establishing operations within the DMCC’s Jewellery & Gemplex - a specialized commercial ecosystem - can access set-up savings exceeding 15% for one-year terms and 20% for multi-year commitments. To encourage new registrations, the DMCC has also increased commission payments within its consultant incentive program.

These measures represent the latest effort by the DMCC to align its value proposition with current market dynamics, supporting both organic growth within its community and the attraction of new investment to the emirate.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Alexander Agafiev

Alexander Agafiev is former tech contributing writer for Forbes Monaco.

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has completed maintenance and preparatory work on its network of air-conditioned rest areas for delivery motorcycle riders, ensuring full operational capacity ahead of the summer season. The project encompasses approximately 40 facilities distributed across high-demand zones, including Hessa Street, Al Khawaneej, Al Barsha, Al Satwa, Oud Maitha, Al Karama, and Arjan.

Site selection for these facilities was determined through operational data and collaboration with delivery companies to identify areas with the highest rider concentration. The infrastructure is designed to provide thermal insulation against direct sunlight while maintaining visibility. Each unit is equipped with air conditioning, water dispensers, and mobile phone charging stations, with capacity to accommodate approximately 10 riders simultaneously. Dedicated parking spaces for delivery motorcycles are provided at each site.

Ahmed Mahboob, CEO of the Licensing Agency at the RTA, stated that the project is part of a broader governance framework intended to improve traffic safety and elevate service standards within the delivery sector, which has seen significant growth in recent years. The initiative serves as a component of the RTA’s strategy to reduce accident risks and improve working conditions for riders.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Andrew Shelepnytsky

Andrew Shelepnytsky is an Editor of Dubai Voice.

The Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ) achieved its highest-ever annual performance in 2025, recording a total non-oil trade value of AED491 billion. This figure represents a 46% increase over the previous year and marks the authority's fifth consecutive year of growth.

According to the report, the total trade value handled by DIEZ has quadrupled since 2020. The authority’s contribution to Dubai’s total external trade reached 16% in 2025, a period during which the emirate’s total trade surpassed AED3 trillion. The growth was driven primarily by imports, with total cargo volume rising 50% to 667,800 tons, signaling a tangible expansion in commercial activity.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council, noted that the results align with the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of DIEZ, attributed the performance to the authority’s focus on logistical integration and technological advancement.

Sector analysis reveals that machinery, electrical equipment, and electronics dominated activity, accounting for more than 70% of total trade with 42% growth. The precious stones, metals, and pearls sector followed, contributing approximately 26% of the total, with a 71% increase. Combined, these sectors comprised 96% of DIEZ’s trade.

China remained the authority’s largest trading partner, representing 28.7% of total volume, followed by Saudi Arabia and India. Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, Executive Chairman of DIEZ, emphasized that these results reflect a diversification of supply chains and a strengthening of regional trade integration, particularly with Saudi Arabia.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Andrew Shelepnytsky

Andrew Shelepnytsky is an Editor of Dubai Voice.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz visited the Emirates Airbus A380 flagship on the opening day of ILA Berlin 2026. Chancellor Merz was received by a delegation including Sir Tim Clark, President of Emirates Airline, and Ahmed Alattar, the United Arab Emirates Ambassador to Germany.

The tour, conducted at the Berlin ExpoCenter Airport, also hosted Berlin Governing Mayor Kai Wegner and Brandenburg Minister-President Dietmar Woidke. The aircraft, which features a four-class configuration, serves as the centerpiece of Emirates’ presence at the aerospace trade show, held from June 10 to June 14.

Emirates has maintained a consistent presence at ILA Berlin since 2010, underscoring a multi-decade commercial relationship between the carrier and the German aviation market. The airline has operated in Germany since 1987, currently serving Frankfurt, Munich, Hamburg, and Düsseldorf with daily flights.

In addition to the static display of its flagship aircraft, the airline confirmed its intention to expand its German network. Emirates stated its plans to launch new daily services to Berlin and Stuttgart, a move the company projects will support regional tourism and generate additional employment opportunities.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Andrew Shelepnytsky

Andrew Shelepnytsky is an Editor of Dubai Voice.

The 11th Emirati Media Forum is scheduled to convene on June 22 at the Mandarin Oriental Downtown Dubai. Held under the patronage of Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council, the event will gather industry leaders, editors-in-chief, and content creators to evaluate the role of national media in an increasingly volatile global environment.

Organized by the Dubai Press Club, the forum focuses on the responsibility of media institutions to counter misinformation while adapting to rapid technological advancements, including the integration of artificial intelligence. According to organizers, the event aims to address how digital platforms can be utilized to report accurately on the United Arab Emirates’ economic and developmental achievements.

Mona Ghanem Al Marri, Vice Chairperson and Managing Director of the Dubai Media Council and President of the Dubai Press Club, emphasized the necessity of a media sector that balances agility with editorial judgment. She noted that effective coordination between media institutions and government entities remains critical for delivering consistent information during periods of regional uncertainty.

Maryam Al Mulla, Director of the Dubai Press Club, stated that the conference will facilitate discussions on the professional standards required for the next phase of the industry. The forum seeks to establish a framework for how national media can support social cohesion and maintain public trust.

Since its inception in 2013, the Emirati Media Forum has served as a primary platform for stakeholders to discuss the strategic direction of the UAE’s media landscape. This year’s edition continues that mandate, prioritizing the industry's role in reflecting the country's institutional stability and global standing.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Andrew Shelepnytsky

Andrew Shelepnytsky is an Editor of Dubai Voice.

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has authorized a five-year infrastructure plan to construct 31 additional pedestrian bridges and tunnels by 2030. The expansion, developed through field studies of population density and land use, integrates residential zones with public transport and major economic hubs.

Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the RTA, stated the initiative is intended to facilitate soft mobility and enhance traffic safety. Since 2006, the city’s pedestrian infrastructure has expanded from 26 crossings to 178 by the end of 2025. Data provided by the authority indicates that the pedestrian fatality rate in Dubai decreased from 9.5 per 100,000 population in 2007 to 0.22 in 2025.

The upcoming projects will target high-traffic corridors, including Sheikh Zayed Road, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street, Al Ittihad Road, and Omar bin Al Khattab Street.

Recent completions include three crossings on Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Khail Road, and Al Manara Street. These structures incorporate dedicated tracks for cyclists and e-scooters, measuring 3 metres in width for mobility devices alongside a 2-metre pedestrian walkway.

Three further projects remain under construction with completion scheduled for the first quarter of 2027. The first, located on Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road at the Tunis Street–Al Nahda intersection, is a 554-metre bridge linking Muhaisnah 1 and Al Twar. The second project is a 730-metre bridge crossing the Dubai–Al Ain Road, connecting Wadi Al Safa 4, known as Liwan, with Nad Hessa. The third, located on Al Sukook Street, is a 44-metre structure integrated into the Central Business District.

The RTA reports these efforts have coincided with a 6% increase in pedestrian trips between 2023 and 2025, and a 23% increase in cycling trips from 2024 to 2025. The new structures feature standardized safety systems, including fire-fighting equipment, remote monitoring, and electromechanical alarms, as part of the city’s broader strategy to reduce traffic-related fatalities.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Andrew Shelepnytsky

Andrew Shelepnytsky is an Editor of Dubai Voice.

Dubai Municipality has introduced “Saeed,” a virtual, artificial intelligence-driven spokesperson designed to act as the official digital representative for the government body. The initiative aims to streamline communication regarding municipal projects, services, and corporate achievements through interactive digital channels.

The virtual spokesperson is rendered with Emirati features and traditional attire, a design choice intended to reflect local cultural identity while maintaining a formal yet approachable public presence. According to municipal officials, Saeed is capable of delivering information in Arabic, English, Urdu, and Chinese, allowing the agency to reach a broader demographic of residents and visitors.

Saeed is programmed to pull data exclusively from official Dubai Municipality sources to ensure accuracy. The AI will be deployed across several platforms, including the municipality’s website, social media channels, press conferences, and public awareness campaigns. Beyond external communication, the platform is intended to assist with internal employee engagement by providing updates on corporate procedures, sharing success stories, and conducting internal opinion polling.

Seyed Ismail Al Hashimi, acting CEO of the Corporate Support Services Sector at Dubai Municipality, stated that the project is part of a broader shift toward integrating advanced digital solutions into government services. Plans are currently in development to integrate the AI into the “Hayakom” customer service centers to handle direct public inquiries.

The launch of this virtual spokesperson reflects a wider trend in Dubai’s administrative sector to utilize AI to improve operational efficiency and public accessibility.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Alexander Agafiev

Alexander Agafiev is former tech contributing writer for Forbes Monaco.

Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden met with Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, during a recent high-level diplomatic visit to Stockholm. The discussions centered on strengthening bilateral ties and identifying opportunities for knowledge exchange between the United Arab Emirates and Sweden across various development sectors.

The dialogue focused on mutual goals regarding sustainable development and prosperity. Sheikha Latifa, accompanied by a UAE delegation, also engaged with senior Swedish officials specializing in health and social affairs. These meetings provided an overview of Sweden’s national frameworks for elderly care, social well-being, and support systems for people of determination.

The delegation reviewed Sweden’s institutional coordination mechanisms, which facilitate efficient public service delivery. Conversations addressed future-oriented policies in community health, disease prevention, and the integration of innovation to enhance quality of life outcomes.

The UAE delegation included Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation; Maryam bint Ahmed Al Hammadi, Minister of State and Secretary General of the UAE Cabinet; Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid, Director General of the Community Development Authority in Dubai; and Ghasaq Shaheen, Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative of the UAE to the United Nations.

The visit, which also includes sessions with Swedish business leaders and representatives from global corporations, aims to formalize cooperation in priority development areas.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Andrew Shelepnytsky

Andrew Shelepnytsky is an Editor of Dubai Voice.

A high-level delegation of Dubai government officials recently completed a visit to Copenhagen to examine Danish best practices across several key sectors, including urban planning, logistics, and social services. The mission aimed to foster international partnerships and integrate global expertise into Dubai’s ongoing development initiatives.

The delegation, comprising representatives from over 20 government entities and organizations - including the Dubai Future Foundation, Dubai Municipality, and the Department of Finance - engaged in a series of site visits and policy briefings.

In the realm of sustainability and infrastructure, the delegation assessed circular economy models at the Amager Bakke/Copenhill waste-to-energy plant. Simultaneously, officials visited the Danish Architecture Center to review sustainable urban planning strategies designed to enhance public spaces and urban identity.

Logistics and healthcare were also central to the itinerary. The group met with executives at Maersk to discuss advancements in global supply chain management. In the healthcare sector, the delegation toured Healthcare Denmark to analyze public-private partnership models and visited Novo Nordisk to explore advancements in pharmaceuticals and medical research.

Educational and creative frameworks were addressed through site visits and cultural engagements. The delegation examined educational models at Buddinge Skole, focusing on critical thinking and student-led learning. Furthermore, meetings with Creative Denmark and attendance at the ‘3 Days of Design’ festival provided insight into how the creative industries are leveraged as primary drivers for economic growth.

Finally, at Denmark’s Ministry of Social Affairs, Housing and Senior Citizens, officials reviewed national policies tailored to community needs and long-term social well-being. This visit aligns with Dubai’s broader strategy of international engagement, seeking to adapt successful global models to accelerate its own progress in innovation, digital transformation, and sustainable development.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Andrew Shelepnytsky

Andrew Shelepnytsky is an Editor of Dubai Voice.