10th June to 16th June 2025 | Weekly Business Roundup

UAE is set to hit its economic targets four years ahead of schedule as non-oil foreign trade records sustained growth. The UAE’s non-oil foreign trade marked 18.6% growth year-on-year in Q1 2025, reaching AED835bn ($227.5bn/global average is 2-3 per cent). The nation’s non-oil exports experienced exceptional growth, surging by 41% annually. UAE expects its target to grow non-oil foreign trade to AED4tn (USD 1.1tn) by 2031 to be achieved in the next two years - almost four years ahead of schedule. 

 

Middle East reports one of the lowest rates globally in terms of baggage challenge

It is reported baggage mishandling cost the aviation sector estimated USD 5 bn in 2024 however owing to smart tech, automation, and real-time tracking, the Middle East reported one of the world’s lowest rates in terms of baggage mishandling. Despite increasing passenger volumes, the region maintained a low mishandling rate of 6.02 bags per 1,000 passengers - outperforming most regions across the globe. 

 

UAE aims to bolster Islamic finance and drive growth in halal industry

UAE has brought into force a national strategy aimed at strengthening its dominance in the realm of Islamic finance and bolstering the halal industry growth. With Islamic banks holding 18% of total banking assets the recent strategy aims to establish UAE as a powerhouse in Sharia-compliant finance. Further UAE aims to become a global halal manufacturing and export hub and under the new national plan, halal exports are expected to rise from AED74bn ($20bn) to AED315bn ($86bn) by 2031.

 

UAE Ministry of Health adopts a digital system to improve efficiency in financial collection

The UAE's Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) adopted an integrated digital system to monitor and collect fines; achieving high levels of financial compliance. The digital system offers efficient task allocation, seamless interaction via a unified portal, and advanced technical support - enabling fulfilling of financial obligations with ease.

 

10000 workers to be trained in AI in Dubai by 2030

In a landmark partnership between the Government Human Resources Department (DGHR) and Dubai AI Campus, the aim is to train over 10,000 individuals by 2030, build local capabilities and empower Dubai’s workforce for the advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI). 

 

7.15m visitors welcomed in Dubai in first 4 months of 2025

At the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism’s (DET) first City Briefing of the year, it was reported Dubai welcomed 7.15 mn international overnight visitors within the first 4 months of the year – marking 7% year-on-year increase. This follows 18.72mn visitors in 2024, the second consecutive year of record growth. 

 

Dubai Safari Park reports 16% surge in number of visitors

Dubai Safari Park concluded its sixth year ahead of its annual summer break and reported a 16% year-on-year increase in visitation. More than 52,700 safari tours were conducted and the park became a go-to destination for environmental education, welcoming nearly 45,000 students. 

 

July 1st – deadline to hire Emiratis or face fines

Companies in the UAE have been given time until the end of June to hire Emiratis. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) renewed its call to private sector companies employing 50 or more workers to expedite meeting their Emiratisation targets for the first half of 2025. Companies that fail to meet the target will have to face financial contributions in July. 

 

Abu Dhabi hotels earned USD 166m in March 2025

Owing to rising international arrivals and robust occupancy the hospitality sector in Abu Dhabi recorded strong growth in March 2025, with total hotel revenues reaching AED611m ($166m) - as per the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and the Statistics Centre – Abu Dhabi (SCAD). Reportedly Abu Dhabi welcomed around 417,000 hotel guests during March 2025.