26th August to 01 September 2025| WEEKLY BUSINESS ROUNDUP

Dubai population hits 4 million mark; Dubai aims for 5 million by 2030

As per market updates Dubai’s population crossed the 4 million threshold strengthening the emirate’s transformation into a global hub. It is reported Dubai aims to increase population count to 5 million before the end of the decade. In 2024 Dubai added over 231,000 new residents since last year, representing a 6.13% increase.

UAE warns businesses to maintain tax records for 7 years or face penalties

The UAE’s Federal Tax Authority has warned businesses to maintain tax records for 7 years or face penalties. FTA requires that all businesses subject to UAE Corporate Tax must maintain comprehensive records and documents supporting the information provided in their tax returns. The authority warned that failure to comply will result in administrative penalties.

 

UAE-Australia trade surges 33% in H1 2025 as CEPA targets USD 10bn by 2032

Under the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) the UAE and Australia target USD 10bn in trade by 2032. It is reported H1 2025 non-oil trade between UAE and Australia surges 33% to USD 3bn. The UAE is Australia’s leading trade and investment partner in the Middle East and its 20th largest partner globally.

 

Dubai sets global standard for branded residences with 140 projects by 2031

Brands ranging from automotive, fashion and hospitality sectors command premiums of up to 198% above traditional properties and Dubai has positioned itself in the forefront of this transformation. The global branded residences sector has expanded 160% in the past decade, with Dubai leading the charge and more than 140 branded real estate projects are set for delivery by 2031 in the emirate.

 

Dubai Airshow 2025 to highlight flying taxis and eVTOLs with the world’s largest Advanced Air Mobility showcase

Dubai Airshow 2025 set to place Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) in the global spotlight with its largest and most diverse showcase till date. In November 2025, 1,500+ exhibitors, 200+ aircrafts on display, and 350 speakers across 12 conference tracks will cementing the event as a global launchpad for next-generation aviation. Electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft (eVTOLs), drones, and the infrastructure in Dubai to debut flying taxi services as early as 2026 will take centre stage.

 

Indian companies lead Dubai Chamber registrations in first half of 2025

As per the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, Indian-owned businesses maintained their position at the top of new company registrations in the first six months of 2025. Total 9,038 new members from India joined the chamber during H1 2025, marking 14.9% year-over-year growth.

 

Dubai resolves USD52m rental disputes in Q2 2025 within record settlement time

The Dubai Rental Disputes Centre (RDC) announced its performance for Q2 2025, achieving 443 reconciliation agreements worth AED190.7m (USD 51.9m) between April 2025 and June 2025. It is reported the average settlement period per case was just six days and the figures reaffirm the efficiency of Dubai’s mechanisms in resolving rental cases with transparency.

 

Abu Dhabi issues 5,930 new business licenses to Emirati women in one year

Abu Dhabi Registration and Licensing Authority (ADRA) issued 5,930 new economic licences to Emirati women entrepreneurs between July 2024 and June 2025, totalling the number of licences held by women to 21,115 by the end of June 2025. This rise is aligned with the National Strategy for Empowerment of Emirati Women (2023–2031).

 

Ajman real estate valuations hit USD 403m in July, up 201%

The Department of Land and Real Estate Regulation reported real estate valuation transactions worth AED1.48bn (USD 403m) were carried out in Ajman during July 2025. July 2025 witnessed 220 valuation transactions, representing 201% growth compared to June 2025.