UAE leads global rankings in AI readiness, telecom infrastructure & digital content

UAE leads global rankings in AI readiness, telecom infrastructure & digital content

UAE processed 173.7 million digital transactions, engaging over 57 million users effectively. In the “State of Digital Transformation Report” unveiled by the UAE’s Higher Committee for Government Digital Transformation, UAE cinched the top global position in the telecommunications infrastructure index, the institutional framework for digital government, and the digital content index. UAE government’s digital accomplishments span across 12 crucial sectors, including the economy, finance, human resources, health, education, community development & more.

 

As per industry reports the retail sector in the GCC is rapidly expanding and is projected to reach over USD 390 billion by 2028, furthered by digital innovation, changing shopper behaviour, and strategic government initiatives. Food retail in the GCC is expected to grow from USD 127.2 billion in 2023 to USD 162 billion by 2028 while non-food retail – including luxury, electronics, and fashion – is surging faster, with a CAGR of 6.2%, expected to hit USD 243.6 billion by 2028. 

 

Middle East leads air connectivity growth; marks 28% surge

Driven by strong international demand, robust network recovery, and the return of major travel corridors it is reported air connectivity in Middle East posted an impressive 28% increase, surpassing all post-Covid recovery forecasts. In the Middle East both intra-regional and inter-continent connectivity have not only grown stronger but exceeded pre-pandemic levels by a significant margin of 18% and 16%, respectively. 

 

Dubai Airports recognised as the region’s leading hub in ACI’s 2024 Air Connectivity Ranking

Dubai International (DXB) has been recognised as the region’s leading hub in ACI’s 2024 Air Connectivity Ranking. The airport with more than 100 international airlines serves 265 plus destinations across six continents. It is reported Dubai International continues to play a vital role in enabling global trade, tourism, and economic opportunity. 

 

The first edition of the Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition held in Al Ain

Organised by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, the first edition of the Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition in Al Ain took place in May 2025. The exhibition showcased latest innovations in smart and vertical farming alongside cutting-edge technologies designed to enhance the efficiency of local agricultural production. Further groundbreaking solutions for overcoming climate challenges specific to the desert environment were exhibited by national companies and specialised farms. 

 

UAE, EU advance free trade deal talks amid major investment announcements

Key officials from the UAE and EU discussed regarding the comprehensive economic partnership agreement (CEPA) between the UAE and the EU. EU is one of the UAE’s key trading partners, accounting for 8.3% of non-oil trade. With EU being the second largest economic bloc in the world, CEPA will unlock new avenues for trade and economic partnership for EU and the UAE. 

 

UAE airports establish global benchmark in digital efficiency

Industry experts confirm airports in the UAE, particularly those in Dubai and Abu Dhabi established new global benchmarks in innovation, efficiency, and passenger experience. With growing passenger volumes, smart systems that offer fully integrated platform for biometric identity processing, enhance airport capacity & reduce waiting times are being embraced in UAE airports. 

Abu Dhabi’s economy set for resilient growth until 2028 amid buoyant oil, non-oil sectors

As per S&P Global Ratings, Abu Dhabi’s economic growth will continue to remain resilient at 2.5% in 2025. Further the growth is forecast to accelerate to 3.5% on average over 2026-2028, underpinned by flourishing non-hydrocarbon activity rising 3% a year. 

 

MoU worth AED 1 billion signed to develop and expand Ajman Port

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Department of Port & Customs Ajman (DPC), and Hutchison Ports, a global port investor, developer and operator was signed for the expansion and development of Ajman Port’s infrastructure with a joint investment worth AED 1 billion. The new port will be set up to enhance handling efficiency in terms of performance, safety, and operational speed; attract new shipping lines; align with digital transformation plans; and launch AI-powered programs for port operations.