29th April 2025 to 5th May 2025 | WEEKLY BUSINESS ROUNDUP

Dubai recorded further surge in population; boosting real estate demand

It is reported by the end of March 2025, Dubai’s population surged to 3.92m, with 89,695 new residents added in just the first three months of the year, an average of approximately 1,000 people per day. The entire net population increase for 2024 was 170,478 people, averaging less than 500 per day. These figures are indicative of the rising demand for real estate in Dubai year on year. The estimated number of new homes expected to be delivered this year stands at 61,580 units

 

AI concepts now part of the UAE school curriculum

The UAE will introduce Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a mandatory subject across all stages of government education in the UAE. Aligned to the UAE’s long-term plans, AI will be taught from reception to grade 12 with aim of preparing future generations from a technical standpoint. 

 

UAE’s MoF emphasises strategic role in advancing GCC financial, economic integration

At a high level briefing the UAE Ministry of Finance raised awareness on regional economic integration and its positive impact on individuals, institutions, and the private sector. The spotlight was on the strategic role that the UAE and the Ministry of Finance played in supporting collective Gulf economic efforts and engaging key partners in shaping future plans & initiatives. 

 

UAE and Greece discuss Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during a recent official visit

During a recent official visit including senior government officials and representatives from leading UAE companies, the focus was on advancing the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the UAE and Greece. The meeting also included a review of progress under the UAE-Greece Joint Investment Fund, which was announced in May 2022 with a total value of €4 billion.

 

Airport Show 2025 in Dubai to put USD 1tn airport development market in the spotlight

24th edition of the Airport Show likely to witness participation from aviation stakeholders, decision-makers, airport operators, and other players of the airport industry. The event is expected to have more than 6,000 attendees from more than 30 countries. The highlight of the show designed will be the USD 1tn airport development market in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia (MEASA) region. Middle Eastern airports are expected to handle 1.1bn passengers by 2040.

 

UAE Croatia set to strengthen bilateral economic relations. 

 UAE officials met Croatia’s Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development for discussions pertaining to strengthening of cooperation across various economic sectors. This meeting is indicative of UAE’s interest to enhance and expand its global partnerships, including those with emerging economies in Europe. 

 

Dubai announces major new zoning rules

In alignment with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan and based on a new operational strategy the emirate will be designated into “urban” and “rural” zones. The initiative aims to boost security coverage and help with the integration of advanced smart technologies and AI systems across all areas of jurisdiction. 

 

Dubai retains top global position for attracting Greenfield FDI Projects

It is reported Dubai held its position as the top global destination for attracting Greenfield FDI projects in cultural and creative industries among 233 cities for the third year in a row - surpassing major cities such as London and Singapore. In 2024, Dubai attracted 971 projects in the sector, with total FDI capital inflows hitting AED18.86 billion, creating 23,517 new jobs.

 

Abu Dhabi's economy to grow by 4.2%; Dubai's by 3.3% in 2025

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) forecasts Abu Dhabi's economy to grow by 4.2% in 2025 and accelerate to 5.8% in 2026. Dubai's economy is expected to expand by 3.3% in 2025, surging to 3.5% in 2026. Strong performance of UAE’s non-oil sector, infrastructure investments, and expansion in key areas like real estate and finance are key drivers for the country’s economic momentum.