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Vladyslava Garkusha News 08 January 2026

Emirates NBD Issues $1 Billion Dual Blue-Green Bond

Emirates NBD has completed a $1 billion dual-tranche sustainable bond issuance, the largest of its kind by a financial institution globally and the largest blue bond issued in the UAE and the Gulf. The offering, issued under the bank’s Euro Medium Term Note program, consists of a $300 million blue bond with a three-year maturity and a $700 million green bond with a five-year maturity.

Proceeds from the bonds are aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, specifically climate action and the protection of marine ecosystems. The issuance follows Emirates NBD’s Sustainable Finance Framework, updated in November 2025, and adheres to the International Capital Market Association’s Green Bond Principles, as well as emerging standards for blue bonds.

The transaction drew strong demand from international investors focused on environmental, social and governance strategies. T. Rowe Price, a global asset manager active in ocean- and water-related investments, participated in the blue tranche. The bonds will be listed on Euronext Dublin and Nasdaq Dubai.

The deal was arranged by a syndicate led by Emirates NBD Capital and Citibank, alongside major international banks. Legal advisers included Clifford Chance for the issuer and Linklaters for the banks.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko
Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

Vladyslava Garkusha News 08 January 2026

Emirates NBD Issues $1 Billion Dual Blue-Green Bond

Dubai Officials Join Citywide Tree-Planting Drive

Senior officials from across Dubai’s government took part in a tree-planting campaign at the Quranic Garden in Al Khawaneej as part of an initiative to plant 20,000 trees across the emirate. The program, led by Dubai Municipality and the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), marks the 20th anniversary of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s leadership of Dubai.

The event brought together directors general and chief executives from key government entities, alongside students and community members. The initiative aims to expand green spaces, improve urban landscaping, and support environmental sustainability in line with the Urban Environment pillar of the Dubai Quality of Life Strategy 2033.

Dubai Municipality is overseeing implementation, supplying a range of ornamental and fruit-bearing trees and shrubs, and identifying planting sites across parks and neighborhoods, including Al Barsha, Nad Al Sheba, Jumeirah, Al Quoz, and Al Warqa’a. The municipality is also using smart irrigation and monitoring systems to ensure efficient water use and long-term plant health.

KHDA is coordinating the participation of schools and universities, while Furjan Dubai, the community partner, is organizing resident and volunteer involvement. Together, the entities aim to embed environmental responsibility across government, education, and local communities as part of a broader effort to enhance Dubai’s urban environment.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

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

Vladyslava Garkusha News 08 January 2026

Dubai Officials Join Citywide Tree-Planting Drive

Emirates Expands Premium Economy Across Global Network

Emirates is accelerating the rollout of its Premium Economy cabin as it introduces retrofitted Boeing 777s and new Airbus A350 aircraft on dozens of routes worldwide. By July 1, the airline plans to offer its latest onboard products, including Premium Economy, on more than 84 routes spanning Europe, North America, Asia, Africa, Australia, and the Middle East.

Key near-term additions include new or expanded daily A350 services to Copenhagen, Phuket, and Cape Town. From June 1, Emirates will add a second daily Dubai–Copenhagen flight. From July 1, third daily services to Phuket and Cape Town will begin, all operated by A350 aircraft featuring Premium Economy alongside updated Business and Economy cabins. The added frequencies are aimed at meeting expected summer travel demand and improving global connectivity through Dubai.

The airline is also deploying Premium Economy aircraft to cities including Rome, Taipei, Barcelona, Mexico City, Brisbane, Addis Ababa, and Karachi, with a mix of A350s and retrofitted Boeing 777 variants entering service between January and May. Additional upgrades are planned across the Gulf, South Asia, and Africa, as Emirates continues to standardize its premium offering across the fleet.

Tickets are available through Emirates’ direct channels and travel agents. Aircraft deployment timelines may shift depending on refurbishment schedules.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko
Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

Vladyslava Garkusha News 08 January 2026

Emirates Expands Premium Economy Across Global Network

DP World Consolidates Marine Services Under Single Global Brand

DP World has announced the unification of its Marine Services businesses under a single DP World brand, consolidating operations previously known as Unifeeder, P&O Ferrymasters and P&O Maritime Logistics. The move is intended to strengthen the company’s position as an integrated global logistics provider.

Under the new structure, the businesses will operate as Shipping Solutions, Multimodal Solutions and Maritime Solutions. Over the coming months, the former brand names will be phased out across digital platforms, physical assets and customer-facing channels. DP World said leadership teams, operational capabilities and infrastructure will remain unchanged.

The rebranding reflects DP World’s broader strategy to evolve from a port operator into a fully integrated logistics company. The three units cover key segments of global trade, including shortsea and feeder shipping, inland and multimodal transport, and offshore and port-related maritime services.

Shipping Solutions operates a fleet of about 150 vessels, with capacities ranging from 350 to 8,500 TEU, connecting more than 200 ports through over 16,000 port calls annually. Multimodal Solutions manages more than 100 rail services across Europe and the United Kingdom, operates 14 inland terminals and provides logistics services for general, perishable and high-value cargo. Maritime Solutions oversees a global fleet of more than 400 vessels, including 17 multi-purpose cargo vessels designed for complex project cargo, and provides pilotage and towage services in multiple international ports.

Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, DP World’s Group Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, said the consolidation reflects the company’s next phase of growth, bringing its marine services together under a single identity while expanding its global logistics offering. Ganesh Raj, Global Chief Operating Officer for Marine Services, said customers are increasingly seeking seamless, end-to-end logistics solutions, which the unified structure is designed to support.

DP World said the alignment builds on earlier brand integrations across its ports, terminals, economic zones and logistics operations, reinforcing its stated objective of integrating its global business under one brand promise.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko
Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

Vladyslava Garkusha News 24 December 2025

Dubai Begins Pilot Autonomous Robotaxi Service on Uber

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has launched a pilot public robotaxi service on the Uber app, marking a new step in the emirate’s Self-Driving Transport Strategy. The service is being rolled out in collaboration with WeRide, a developer of autonomous driving technology, and Uber Technologies.

The pilot, available starting today, allows users to book WeRide robotaxis through the Uber app by selecting the “Autonomous” option. Service is currently limited to Umm Suqeim and Jumeirah, two high-traffic coastal districts near public beaches. The vehicles operate with a specialist safety driver on board as testing continues, with a transition to fully driverless service planned for early 2026.

Ahmed Bahrozyan, chief executive of RTA’s Public Transport Agency, said the launch follows a joint testing program with WeRide that began after the partnership was announced in April 2025. He said the pilot is intended to ensure a controlled and safe introduction of autonomous mobility to the public.

WeRide said its expansion in Dubai builds on autonomous systems that have been tested in multiple markets worldwide. The company currently operates about 150 autonomous vehicles in the Middle East, including more than 100 robotaxis, and has stated its goal of deploying tens of thousands of robotaxis globally by 2030.

Uber said the Dubai launch supports the UAE’s broader mobility objectives, including Dubai’s target for 25 percent of all journeys to be autonomous by 2030. The company positions the service as part of its strategy to integrate autonomous vehicles alongside human-driven rides on its platform.

The pilot comes amid rising demand for mobility in Dubai. The city’s population has surpassed 4 million, contributing to increased use of public transport, taxis, and shared mobility services. In 2024, Dubai recorded more than 153 million trips across its transport network. Demand for shared mobility rose by 28 percent compared with 2023, reinforcing the case for scalable and technology-driven transport solutions, including autonomous vehicles.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

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

Vladyslava Garkusha News 24 December 2025

Dubai Begins Pilot Autonomous Robotaxi Service on Uber

Dubai Unveils Interactive Guide for Hatta Winter 2025

Brand Dubai, the creative arm of the Dubai Government Media Office, has launched an interactive digital guide for the “Hatta Winter 2025” initiative. The program is implemented under the supervision of the Supreme Committee for the Development of Hatta, in coordination with government partners.

The guide outlines a calendar of events spanning six festivals scheduled from December 5, 2025, to January 20, 2026. They include the Hatta Festival, organized by Brand Dubai; the Hatta Honey Festival and Hatta Agricultural Festival, organized by Dubai Municipality; Hatta Cultural Nights, organized by the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority; the Productive Families Festival, organized by the Community Development Authority; and the Hatta Wadi Hub Festival, organized by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism.

Designed as a practical reference for visitors, the guide details family-oriented events and activities across Hatta. It includes venue maps and direct links to participating events and outlets on social media, allowing users to access current information on schedules, food and beverage options, products, and souvenirs.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

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

Vladyslava Garkusha News 24 December 2025

Dubai Unveils Interactive Guide for Hatta Winter 2025

Dubai’s Shared Procurement Programme Reports AED 313 Million in Savings

Dubai’s Government Shared Procurement Programme, known as Tasharok, has generated AED 313.5 million in savings for 72 government entities since its launch in September 2020, according to the Support Services Centre (SSC) at Dubai Finance (DOF). The savings represent a 14 percent reduction in procurement spending over five years, as of the end of August 2025.

The announcement was made at a ceremony organised by the SSC to recognise partner entities and suppliers. The programme is designed to consolidate government purchasing, standardise pricing and improve oversight of public spending across participating entities.

Abdulrahman Saleh Al Saleh, Director General of DOF, said the programme supports fiscal sustainability by strengthening cooperation among government entities and improving governance in the management of public funds.

According to Hamed Abdulghafoor Alawadhi, Executive Director of the Shared Services Sector at DOF, Tasharok has reduced the average procurement cycle from 14 days to four days through joint framework agreements with suppliers. Since inception, participating entities have issued more than 16,000 purchase orders with a total value exceeding AED 2.3 billion. In the first eight months of 2025 alone, the programme delivered AED 90 million in savings from 4,130 purchase orders worth AED 806 million, compared with AED 108 million in savings across all of 2024.

Mubarak Ahmad Al Shamsi, Director of the SSC, said the programme operates through a hybrid model that preserves the independence of government entities while providing central support, data and reporting. A recently introduced business intelligence system, developed with Digital Dubai, allows real-time monitoring of procurement performance. The Tasharok digital platform currently offers more than 6,000 products and services across 28 categories at fixed prices, supports green procurement and vehicle policies, and includes a dedicated section for Dubai SME suppliers. More than 380 employees from 83 government entities have been trained to use the platform.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko
Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

Vladyslava Garkusha News 24 December 2025

Dubai’s Shared Procurement Programme Reports AED 313 Million in Savings

Dubai Sports Council Reviews Preparations for First World Sports Summit

Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, chairman of the Dubai Sports Council, reviewed final preparations for the inaugural World Sports Summit during a meeting of the council’s board of directors, according to officials.

The summit, organised by the Dubai Sports Council under the patronage of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, crown prince of Dubai, will be held at Madinat Jumeirah on Dec. 29 and 30 under the theme “Uniting the World Through Sports.” Organisers expect more than 1,500 participants, including international athletes, sports executives, federation officials and decision-makers.

At the meeting, Sheikh Mansoor said the summit reflects Dubai’s broader strategy of hosting international platforms focused on global cooperation and future development, adding that the event aims to position sport as a tool for dialogue, development and cross-border collaboration.

The meeting was attended by Khalfan Belhoul, vice chairman of the Dubai Sports Council, along with board members Ali Al Mutawa, Ahmed Al Khaja, Ismail Al Hashemi and Saeed Hareb, the council’s secretary general.

Officials said the summit will address key issues facing the sports sector, including governance, professional management, athlete development, infrastructure, talent identification and the use of artificial intelligence. Sheikh Mansoor also reviewed organisational arrangements and confirmed that logistical preparations, including reception plans for speakers and guests, have been completed.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Alexander Agafiev

Alexander Agafiev is former tech contributing writer for Forbes Monaco.

Vladyslava Garkusha News 24 December 2025

Dubai Sports Council Reviews Preparations for First World Sports Summit

Dubai Press Club Holds Workshops to Develop Young Emirati Journalists

The Dubai Press Club, working with the Board of Trustees of the Emirati Article Award, has organised a series of specialised workshops aimed at strengthening article-writing skills among Emirati students and young writers.

The sessions brought together established Emirati writers, newspaper editors, students, digital content creators and aspiring analysts. According to the organisers, the initiative is part of broader efforts to support the UAE’s media sector by preparing a new generation of Emirati journalists capable of producing professional, nationally focused content.

Speakers included Dr Abdul Khaleq Abdullah, professor of political science and chairman of the Emirati Article Award’s board of trustees, who addressed the role of opinion writing in shaping public discourse. Ali Obaid Al Hameli, an Emirati writer and media professional, focused on writing style and language precision, while Hamid bin Karam, editor in chief of Al Bayan, explained how editors assess articles and select contributors.

Mohamed Al Hammadi, an Emirati writer and journalist, led practical discussions on developing ideas from current events and structuring strong introductions, offering feedback on participants’ work. Ibrahim Shukrallah, editor in chief of Emarat Al Youm, discussed the role of Emirati opinion writing in reinforcing national identity and developing influential columnists.

Maryam Al Mulla, director of the Dubai Press Club, said the workshops are designed to identify and develop emerging talent and to strengthen the local media ecosystem through collaboration with the Emirati Article Award.

Launched in early 2025, the Emirati Article Award includes nine categories, each carrying a prize of Dh20,000. The award is open to UAE citizens and residents, with submissions required to be unpublished Arabic articles of 800 to 1,000 words focused on contemporary Emirati topics. Participants may submit one article in a single category, and any use of artificial intelligence must be disclosed.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko
Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

Vladyslava Garkusha News 24 December 2025

Dubai Press Club Holds Workshops to Develop Young Emirati Journalists

DEWA Awards Dh100.8 Million Contract to Protect Water Infrastructure in Dubai

Dubai Electricity and Water Authority has awarded a contract valued at more than Dh100.8 million for the supply, installation, testing and commissioning of glass-reinforced epoxy water pipelines aimed at protecting and diverting existing utility services across Dubai.

The project includes surveying, excavation, civil works, reinstatement, and full integration with the existing water network. Work will be carried out at 20 locations across the emirate over a 24-month period.

According to DEWA, the contract forms part of its broader investment in strengthening critical infrastructure to support Dubai’s development. Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, DEWA’s managing director and chief executive, said the project aligns with the emirate’s strategy to expand and safeguard essential utility networks and ensure reliable water and electricity services.

The use of glass-reinforced epoxy pipelines reflects a focus on durability and corrosion resistance, particularly for underground applications. DEWA said the project is intended to improve resilience, protect existing services during future development, and support continuity of water supply as the city expands.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko
Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

Vladyslava Garkusha News 24 December 2025

DEWA Awards Dh100.8 Million Contract to Protect Water Infrastructure in Dubai

UAE Gender Balance Council Broadens Private-Sector Pledge and Launches New Data Platform

The UAE Gender Balance Council has expanded its national effort to advance workplace equality by adding 11 companies to the SDG 5 Pledge to Accelerate Gender Balance, bringing total participation to 80 firms across sectors including finance, insurance, consumer goods, retail, and professional services. The new signatories joined during a workshop focused on data-driven approaches to improving gender balance in the private sector.

At the event, the Council announced the launch of a Gender Balance Data Platform, designed to standardize annual reporting by participating companies on progress and women’s representation in middle management and senior leadership. The platform will also serve as the official submission channel for the UAE Gender Balance Awards, which recognize achievements in policy reform, women’s leadership representation, and private-sector initiatives advancing gender balance.

In line with the UAE leadership’s designation of 2026 as the Year of the Family, the Council introduced a new award category, Family-Focused Employer of the Year. The award is intended to recognize companies that offer flexible and supportive work environments that promote work-life balance and employee well-being.

Sheikha Manal bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the UAE Gender Balance Council, underscored the role of public-private partnerships in national development and said the Council would continue supporting institutions in building inclusive and competitive workplaces aligned with national priorities. Council leaders also emphasized that the SDG 5 Pledge commits participating organizations to raising women’s representation in leadership to at least 30 percent within defined timeframes, supported by measurable data.

The workshop included a signing ceremony for new members - among them AD Ports Group, Mashreq, AstraZeneca, L’Oréal Middle East, and MetLife Gulf - along with discussions on performance measurement, best practices, and strategic priorities through 2026. Case studies from regional and international companies highlighted approaches such as leadership pipelines, mentorship programs, return-to-work support, and enhanced parental leave policies.

The Council reaffirmed that sustained collaboration between government and the private sector, supported by reliable data and shared accountability, remains central to advancing gender balance as the UAE prepares for future labor market shifts.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko
Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

Vladyslava Garkusha News 23 December 2025

UAE Gender Balance Council Broadens Private-Sector Pledge and Launches New Data Platform

Dubai Metro Blue Line Review Highlights Construction Progress and Timeline

Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), chaired a Dubai Metro Blue Line Forum meeting at the precast concrete production and storage facility in International City. The meeting was attended by leaders of the project consortium - MAPA, Limak and CRRC Hong Kong - along with senior representatives from consulting and contracting firms and RTA executives.

The forum, which meets regularly to monitor delivery and address implementation decisions, reviewed construction progress and scheduling. The project currently employs more than 3,000 workers and 500 engineers and specialists across 12 sites. To date, more than 4.6 million work hours have been completed, with overall progress at 12 percent. Construction is expected to reach 30 percent completion by the end of 2026, with the line scheduled to open on Sept. 9, 2029, in line with the approved programme.

During the visit, Al Tayer inspected the ready-mix concrete and precast production facilities. The Blue Line is the first rail project by RTA to integrate two ready-mix concrete batching plants and two precast concrete storage facilities, located in Al Ruwayyah 3 and International City. According to RTA, this model is intended to strengthen quality control, streamline logistics, and reduce construction timelines.

The Al Ruwayyah 3 plant produces 200 cubic metres of ready-mix concrete and between 10 and 12 viaduct segments daily. In International City, the batching plant produces 120 cubic metres of concrete, while the tunnel rings factory manufactures 12 rings per day.

Stretching 30 kilometres with 14 stations, the Dubai Metro Blue Line will connect the existing Red and Green Lines and serve areas projected to house about one million residents by 2040. The line will offer a 20-minute direct journey to Dubai International Airport and supports the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan by extending metro access to the city’s fifth urban area. RTA says the project is designed to advance the 20-minute city concept, support transit-oriented development, contribute to the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), increase land and property values near stations by up to 25 percent, and reduce traffic congestion along served corridors by 20 percent.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko
Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

Vladyslava Garkusha News 23 December 2025

Dubai Metro Blue Line Review Highlights Construction Progress and Timeline

Dubai Opens Two Bridges to Ease Traffic at Trade Centre Roundabout

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) on Sunday opened two new bridges as part of the Trade Centre Roundabout Development Project, advancing a major overhaul of one of the city’s busiest intersections. The bridges serve traffic from 2nd December Street toward Sheikh Rashid Road and Al Majlis Street, which connects to Al Mustaqbal Street.

Each bridge carries two lanes in both directions. Together, they span about 2,000 meters and can handle up to 6,000 vehicles per hour. The bridges opened ahead of schedule, originally set for mid-January, and are expected to reduce travel time from 2nd December Street to Al Majlis Street, Al Mustaqbal Street, and Zabeel Palace Street from around 10 minutes to about two minutes.

Mattar Al Tayer, director general and chairman of the RTA, said the Trade Centre Roundabout links Sheikh Zayed Road with five major roads, making it a critical junction in Dubai’s road network. He said the broader project, with a total cost exceeding 696 million dirhams, includes five bridges totaling 5,000 meters in length and the conversion of the existing roundabout into an at-grade intersection.

According to the RTA, overall project completion has reached nearly 50 percent and will proceed through phased openings. A bridge linking Sheikh Zayed Road to Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Street is scheduled to open in March, while two additional bridges serving traffic toward 2nd December Street are planned for October 2026. Once complete, the project is expected to reduce average delays at the intersection from 12 minutes to about 90 seconds.

The development serves key commercial and residential areas, including Dubai World Trade Centre, Dubai International Financial Centre, and neighborhoods such as Zabeel, Al Satwa, and Al Karama. The RTA estimates more than half a million residents and visitors will benefit.

The Trade Centre Roundabout project is part of a wider plan that includes upgrading Al Mustaqbal Street through 2027. That work will expand road capacity, add bridges and tunnels, and further reduce travel times along a corridor linking major business and event districts.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko
Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.