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The Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) has launched the DMCC Wealth Hub, a centralized platform aimed at supporting family offices and private capital firms looking to establish or expand operations in Dubai. The move underscores the emirate’s growing significance as a global destination for private wealth management.

The initiative comes amid a surge in assets under management (AUM) by Dubai-based family offices, now estimated to exceed $1 trillion. The new Wealth Hub provides a structured environment for managing governance, succession planning, and investment strategies, reflecting the city’s ambition to position itself as a premier jurisdiction for long-term wealth stewardship.

Designed as a single point of entry into Dubai’s private capital ecosystem, the DMCC Wealth Hub offers tailored licensing options - including Single Family Office, Multi Family Office, Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV), and Holding Company structures - alongside access to legal, tax, and fiduciary expertise. Integration with the DMCC Tradeflow platform enables secure asset registration and financing.

The official launch was attended by H.E. Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi, UAE Minister of Investment, and H.E. Abdulaziz AlNuaimi, Assistant Undersecretary at the Ministry of Economy and Tourism. Alsuwaidi emphasized the UAE’s strategic intent to become a leading destination for global capital, noting the critical role of private wealth in advancing national economic diversification. AlNuaimi highlighted the importance of regulatory clarity and institutional support in attracting long-term investment.

Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman and CEO of DMCC, said the Hub is a response to the rapid growth in wealth management activity in Dubai. “Family offices in the emirate are projected to grow their assets by over 50% by the end of the decade. The Wealth Hub gives these entities the platform they need to manage cross-border structures and navigate intergenerational wealth planning,” he said.

The launch also featured contributions from Emirates NBD and Deloitte Middle East, with executives sharing insights on current investment trends and structuring models in private wealth.

The Wealth Hub builds on DMCC’s broader position as a global business district, now home to nearly 26,000 companies across sectors including commodities, finance, and technology. With over 3,400 tech firms, including close to 1,000 operating in Web3, the district aims to bridge private capital with opportunities in digital assets, AI, and fintech - further entrenching Dubai as a future-facing wealth center.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko

Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

The Broadway hit musical Wicked will make its long-awaited Middle East debut in Dubai, with performances scheduled at Dubai Opera from January 28 to February 15, 2026. The production is presented by Broadway Entertainment Group in partnership with Dubai Opera.

This marks the first time the globally acclaimed musical will be staged in Dubai. The touring production includes reimagined sets, over 350 costumes, and technical innovations such as an aerial flying sequence - making it the most visually ambitious version of Wicked to date.

Internationally, Wicked has been seen by more than 65 million people in over 130 cities across 16 countries. With a full cast, orchestra, and crew of more than 100 professionals, the production brings to life the untold story of the witches of Oz. Its well-known score features songs such as “Defying Gravity,” “Popular,” and “For Good.”

The show is produced by Broadway Entertainment Group, which celebrates its 15th anniversary in Dubai with this milestone production. The company has spent five years developing the Middle East premiere of Wicked, a project it says reflects its long-term investment in regional theatre.

Stephen Schwartz, the show’s composer and lyricist, welcomed the expansion into Dubai: “This new production brings its own vitality and creativity, while continuing to tell our story of friendship, love, and the courage to stand up for what you believe in.”

Dubai Opera’s Executive Director, Paolo Petrocelli, called the production a cultural landmark for the UAE. “Welcoming Wicked affirms Dubai’s standing as a hub for cultural excellence and live entertainment,” he said.

The production is supported by Dubai Calendar and sponsored by AMEX and Dubai 92.

The musical’s Dubai run follows the global success of its Grammy-winning original cast album and the recent film adaptation starring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, which has grossed more than $750 million worldwide.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko

Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) Hospitality and Emirates Flight Catering (EKFC) have formalized a strategic partnership aimed at transforming the region’s large-scale event catering sector. Under a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), the two leading UAE-based entities will jointly provide end-to-end hospitality solutions across major events in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region.

The agreement brings together DWTC’s experience in venue-based hospitality services with EKFC’s global-scale food production capabilities. The collaboration will offer fully integrated services, including culinary development, staffing, logistics, and operational execution for events ranging from government showcases to high-profile exhibitions.

“This strategic partnership marks a pivotal milestone,” said Mahir Julfar, Executive Vice President at DWTC. “Together, we are delivering seamless hospitality experiences for millions of guests, while setting new standards for innovation, quality, and service excellence.”

Shahreyar Nawabi, CEO of Emirates Flight Catering, emphasized the partnership’s operational scale and consistency. “This collaboration brings together two industry leaders with complementary strengths to deliver a reliable and world-class catering experience across any event format.”

The initiative will begin with immediate effect, including a joint engagement at the upcoming Dubai Airshow, where both partners will provide catering and hospitality services for VIP areas, including the Royal Pavilion and the UAE Ministry of Defence.

The partnership is also expected to play a key role in delivering services for other flagship events such as GITEX Global, the Dubai International Boat Show, and the Dubai World Cup.

As part of the collaboration, DWTC and EKFC will introduce new food service models at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre (DICEC) and the Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC). These include semi-permanent food outlets, mobile concepts, and pilot retail-ready offerings aimed at enhancing flexibility and speed of service across event formats.

Looking ahead, the ongoing AED 10 billion expansion of the Dubai Exhibition Centre is expected to create further opportunities for operational collaboration, reinforcing Dubai’s position as a global leader in hosting large-scale international events.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko

Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

Dubai Miracle Garden, recognized as the world’s largest natural flower garden, has officially opened its 14th season, offering visitors an expanded array of floral displays and new themed attractions.

The opening ceremony was led by Sheikh Theyab bin Tahnoon bin Mohammad Al Nahyan, Chairman of Miracle Garden Group, alongside key representatives from the tourism and hospitality sectors, including Hamdan Al Kaabi, Vice Chairman of the Group, and Eng. Mohammed Zaher Hammadih, Group CEO.

Running daily from September 29 through May 31, the 2024–25 season introduces over 150 million flowers arranged across 72,000 square meters. The displays feature more than 120 varieties of blooms, including a number of custom-designed floral structures that have helped the garden earn multiple Guinness World Records since its launch in 2013.

The new season, themed “Blooming Wonders, Endless Memories,” reflects Dubai’s broader strategy to enhance family-oriented tourism through innovation and large-scale experiences. “Dubai Miracle Garden reflects our vision of creating outstanding attractions that celebrate innovation,” Sheikh Theyab said. “Season 14 reinforces our dedication to excellence and unforgettable experiences for visitors from around the world.”

According to Eng. Hammadih, this year’s updates aim to expand visitor engagement through new installations and refreshed concepts. “We’ve designed this season to inspire wonder and create special moments for every visitor,” he said.

Dubai Miracle Garden continues to serve as a key component of the emirate’s tourism portfolio, drawing millions annually and contributing to its global reputation for experiential and sustainable tourism.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko

Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

Nasdaq Dubai has listed a $450 million Sukuk issued by Arada Developments LLC, a UAE-based master developer, under its $1 billion trust certificate issuance program. The Islamic bond, maturing in 2030, drew more than $2 billion in orders—over four times its offering size—signaling strong regional and international investor interest.

The Sukuk, priced at a profit rate of 7.150%, marks Arada’s third listing on Nasdaq Dubai, bringing its total outstanding issuances on the exchange to $1.5 billion.

To mark the occasion, Prince Khaled bin Alwaleed bin Talal Al Saud, Executive Vice Chairman of Arada, rang the opening bell at Nasdaq Dubai alongside Hamed Ali, CEO of Nasdaq Dubai and Dubai Financial Market.

The listing supports Arada’s ongoing expansion, including recent entries into two new markets. Nasdaq Dubai now hosts $100.6 billion in listed Sukuk, with the total value of debt instruments on the exchange exceeding $141.6 billion.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko

Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

The Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) has reported a 10% increase in the number of British and Swiss companies operating within its district over the past year, as it concluded a series of high-level engagements across Europe aimed at promoting Dubai as a hub for innovation and international commerce.

During its Made for Trade Live (MFTL) roadshows held in London and Zürich, DMCC announced the addition of nearly 200 new British companies to its roster over the last 12 months. The district now hosts approximately 2,200 British firms, making it one of the largest concentrations of UK businesses in the United Arab Emirates. Notably, one in ten of these firms operates within the technology sector, reflecting a broader shift toward innovation-led growth.

DMCC also reported it is nearing 450 Swiss member companies, aligning with a 120% surge in UAE-Swiss non-oil trade during the first half of 2025. Combined, Swiss and British firms now account for nearly 2,650 companies - over 10% of DMCC’s total membership.

The European tour concluded with DMCC’s participation in the CV Summit in Zürich, a leading business event focused on artificial intelligence, blockchain, and digital assets. As a Platinum Sponsor, DMCC emphasized its strategic partnership with CV VC and highlighted the strengthening connection between Dubai and Zug, Switzerland - two growing nodes in the global Web3 and digital innovation ecosystem.

Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of DMCC, said the roadshows highlighted the growing demand among UK and Swiss companies for platforms that support scaling, innovation, and international reach. “British and Swiss companies in our district have each grown by around 10% over the past year. We will keep strengthening our ecosystems so DMCC remains the natural home for forward-looking companies seeking to scale, innovate and access global opportunities from Dubai,” he said.

The events in London and Zürich were held in partnership with prominent business associations, drawing investors, policymakers, and executives from across finance, technology, and sustainability sectors. Discussions focused on how Dubai and DMCC provide the infrastructure and business environment to support international expansion, particularly for companies in emerging and advanced technologies.

With nearly 26,000 member companies representing over 180 countries, DMCC contributes approximately 15% of Dubai’s foreign direct investment inflows and 7% of the emirate’s GDP. As Dubai solidifies its position as a global business launchpad, DMCC continues to play a central role in driving innovation and trade.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Alexander Agafiev Macambira

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

Under the directives of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai, and with the patronage of Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, the 27th Water, Energy, Technology and Environment Exhibition (WETEX) opened Monday at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

Organized by the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), this year’s event features 18 national pavilions, with Türkiye participating for the first time. Countries represented include China, India, Germany, France, Italy, Switzerland, Canada, Poland, Bulgaria, and Russia.

The exhibition spans multiple halls at the Dubai World Trade Centre and hosts over 3,100 companies from 65 countries. It is supported by 68 sponsors and 18 strategic partners.

DEWA CEO Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer said the exhibition aligns with the UAE's efforts to expand international cooperation in sustainability and green finance. He cited a 24.5% year-on-year increase in non-oil foreign trade during the first half of 2025, with notable surges in trade with Switzerland (120%), India (33%), Türkiye (41%), and China (15%).

Several national representatives emphasized the strategic importance of WETEX as a platform for cross-border collaboration in clean technology and energy transition.

Switzerland’s Consul General in Dubai, Angelica Schempp, noted her country’s contributions in water management, waste treatment, and the circular economy. Jean-Christophe Paris, Consul General of France in the Northern Emirates, highlighted the alignment of French innovations with the UAE’s sustainability goals.

Representatives from Belgium, Canada, and Poland also underscored their countries’ commitments to environmental technologies and the economic opportunities linked to energy transition. Jacek Boguslawski of Poland’s Wielkopolska Region emphasized the region’s pursuit of low-emission energy solutions, including hydrogen, backed by the EU’s Just Transition Fund.

WETEX runs through October 2.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko

Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

Dubai Police have added three new Mercedes-Benz patrol vehicles to their operational fleet, aligning the announcement with World Tourism Day on September 27. The new additions include the Mercedes SL 55 AMG, GT 63 AMG, and the fully electric EQS 580.

The vehicles, unveiled during a formal ceremony hosted by the Tourism Police Department, are equipped with advanced mechanical systems and artificial intelligence technologies designed to support modern policing needs. Features include interactive digital displays and real-time information systems to enhance operational efficiency.

Brigadier Saeed Al Hajri, Director of the General Department of Criminal Investigation, officiated the vehicle unveiling. Also in attendance were senior officials from both Dubai Police and Gargash Enterprises, the official distributor of Mercedes-Benz in Dubai.

According to Brigadier Al Hajri, the deployment of the new patrol cars supports Dubai Police's strategy to strengthen presence at key tourist locations, including Burj Khalifa, Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, and Jumeirah Beach Residence. He stated that these vehicles serve not only as law enforcement tools but also as part of a broader commitment to public engagement, safety, and assistance for residents and visitors.

Mr. Thomas Schulz, General Manager of Mercedes-Benz Cars, emphasized the importance of the partnership, noting it reflects a shared focus on innovation and sustainable transport solutions.

The event concluded with an exchange of commemorative shields between Dubai Police and Mercedes-Benz representatives.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Alexander Agafiev Macambira

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

DP World has entered into a strategic logistics partnership with Atlantis Dubai, assuming responsibility for the supply chain operations of two of the country’s most prominent hospitality landmarks: Atlantis, The Palm and Atlantis The Royal.

Under the agreement, DP World will manage the inbound logistics of perishables, dry goods, and specialty items, handling approximately 7,000 pallets through its logistics network. The solution includes temperature-controlled facilities, real-time cargo tracking, and advanced inventory management systems.

The partnership is designed to streamline the complex supply chain that supports Atlantis Dubai’s operations, which span more than 60,000 individual products sourced from nearly 70 countries. These supplies range from gourmet ingredients to essential daily provisions, serving the needs of thousands of guests across both resorts.

“Hospitality supply chains are among the most complex in logistics,” said Abdulla Bin Damithan, CEO and Managing Director of DP World GCC. “Our partnership with Atlantis Dubai enables the delivery of high-efficiency, high-reliability logistics that meet the elevated demands of the luxury hospitality sector.”

Paul Baker, President of Atlantis at Kerzner International, stated the agreement provides a scalable logistics model to support current operations and long-term regional growth. “This collaboration allows us to operate with greater agility and maintain our focus on guest experience,” he said.

The initial phase of the partnership focuses on storage and inbound logistics. Both parties are assessing opportunities to expand into broader procurement and supply chain functions, aligned with Atlantis Dubai’s regional expansion plans.

The agreement reinforces DP World’s expanding role in hospitality logistics, following similar initiatives with other major regional brands.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko

Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

Dubai Chambers hosted a high-level meeting on Thursday with Queensland’s Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment, and Training, the Honourable Rosslyn Bates, to explore new avenues for trade and investment between Dubai and Australia.

Held at Dubai Chambers’ headquarters, the meeting was attended by H.E. Yahya Lootah, Vice Chairman of Dubai Chamber of Commerce; H.E. Ridwaan Jadwat, Australian Ambassador to the UAE; and H.E. Bryony Hilless, Consul General of Australia in Dubai, along with senior officials from both sides.

Discussions focused on expanding economic cooperation in sectors of mutual interest, while highlighting Dubai’s strategic role as a gateway for Australian businesses targeting growth markets in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia.

“Queensland remains a valued economic partner,” said H.E. Yahya Lootah. “We aim to strengthen collaboration and unlock new trade and investment opportunities that benefit both business communities.”

Dubai’s non-oil trade with Australia reached AED 13.1 billion in 2024, an 8% increase from the previous year. In the first half of 2025, 250 Australian companies joined Dubai Chamber of Commerce, bringing the total number of active Australian member firms to 1,594 by the end of June.

Dubai International Chamber, part of the Dubai Chambers network, opened a representative office in Australia in 2023. The office supports bilateral trade by promoting investment flows into Dubai and assisting Dubai-based companies in expanding operations in the Australian market.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko

Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.