09 to 15 September 2025| WEEKLY BUSINESS ROUNDUP

Dubai to host Big 5 Global 2025 as USD 7tn construction projects drive record demand

Dubai is gearing up to host the largest and most influential construction and urban development event in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA) – Big 5 Global - from November 24–27. More than 2,800 exhibitors and over 85,000 professionals from across the global construction and urban development value chain are likely to participate in the event as the Middle East and Africa account for USD 7tn in pre-construction projects.

As per reports, the UAE’s hotel establishments accommodated more than 16.1 million guests during H1 2025. This figure indicates 5.5% growth compared to H1 2024. It is estimated national initiatives and programs designed to develop the hospitality industry in the UAE are key in cementing UAE’s position as a leading global tourist destination.

 

UAE non-oil economy demonstrates resilience as trade jumps 24%

In its September 2025 Monthly Oil Market Report (MOMR), OPEC lauded UAE’s non-oil economy’s resilience turning the spotlight on robust growth across trade and tourism alongside steady macroeconomic indicators. UAE’s Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) rebounded to 53.3 in August, after easing to 52.9 in July – the lowest level in four years.

 

UAE Cyber Security Council warns 1.4 billion accounts hacked monthly across the globe

The UAE Cyber Security Council (CSC) highlighted risks linked to users’ digital footprints, revealing that more than 1.4 billion accounts are hacked globally each month. Experts reveal data with weak security measures can lead to privacy violations, account takeovers, phishing attacks and identity theft.

  

Property transactions in Dubai hit AED 42.4 billion in Dubai’s residential market

Marking a significant shift in tenants moving from renting to purchasing, property transactions in Dubai hit AED 42.4 billion in August 2025. Secondary property sales in Dubai surged 22% as renters choose to buy homes. Dubai’s growing population, new company formations are key factors contributing to  this trend.

 

Abu Dhabi launches Golden Food Product List to fast-track imports and cut costs

The Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA) launched the Golden Food Product List initiative to streamline food imports, strengthen trade flows and uphold best in class food safety standards in Abu Dhabi. Products with a proven compliance record are prioritised - allowing such products to clear customs faster through pre-clearance at border crossings.

 

Sharjah real estate hit USD 7.3bn in H1 2025; investors from 109 nationalities head to the emirate

As per reports, in the first half of 2025, Sharjah welcomed 6,600+ investors from 109 nationalities contributing total real estate transactions exceeding AED27bn (USD7.3bn). These figures indicate Sharjah’s positioning as a preferred option for living and investment. 

 

Abu Dhabi approves 145 economic activities on farms; boosts food security and tourism

Abu Dhabi has expanded farm economic activities to 145 under a new ADAFSA decision, boosting food security, investment opportunities and agri-tourism. The expanded categories include 41 plant production activities, 12 industrial support activities, 9 supporting plant production activities and 8 food support services.

 

New professional licences surge 37% in H1 2025 in Ajman

With new investors rising 24%, Ajman’s new professional licences surged 37% in H1 2025. The Ajman Competitiveness Office reported a 24% overall increase in new licences, including 11% rise in industrial licences and 9% in commercial ones.