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Dubai Chamber of Commerce reported a record AED356.5 billion in members’ exports and re-exports in 2025, the highest annual figure in its history and a 15.1% increase from AED309.6 billion in 2024. It is the second consecutive year in which the total surpassed AED300 billion, underscoring the continued expansion of Dubai’s trade activity.

The chamber, one of three operating under Dubai Chambers, said the growth reflects the ability of Dubai-based companies to adjust to changing global trade conditions while widening their reach into international markets.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council, described the results as evidence of international confidence in Dubai’s economic framework and business environment. He linked the performance to the emirate’s long-term strategy under the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.

Membership also rose sharply. A total of 71,830 new companies joined the chamber in 2025, bringing active membership to 292,486, up 13.2% from the previous year. During the same period, the chamber issued 852,184 certificates of origin, a 7.7% increase, and handled 5,960 ATA Carnets valued at AED5.6 billion, reflecting growth in both volume and value.

The chamber supported 130 local companies in expanding into overseas markets, a 14% increase from 2024. It also reviewed 54 laws and draft laws with Business Groups, achieving a 60% adoption rate for private-sector recommendations, and held 250 meetings with Business Groups and Business Councils.

Five new Business Councils were established to represent investors from Bulgaria, Cyprus, Brazil, Slovakia, and Peru, alongside the launch of the Dubai Delivery Business Group. Mediation activity increased to 201 cases, with a combined value exceeding AED241 million and a settlement rate of about 67%.

Through the Dubai Centre for Family Businesses, three new advisory services were introduced, along with training programmes and governance sessions aimed at strengthening family-owned enterprises. In sustainability efforts, the chamber awarded its ESG Label to 50 companies and expanded its long-running sustainability programme under the new “Sustainability 365” identity.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Alexander Agafiev

Alexander Agafiev is former tech contributing writer for Forbes Monaco.

Petrochem Middle East has inaugurated a AED 300 million petrochemical terminal and corporate headquarters at Jebel Ali Port, expanding the company’s logistics capacity and supporting Dubai’s industrial growth strategy under the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.

The new facility, Petrochem’s largest to date, consolidates its operational and corporate functions in a purpose-built site designed to support long-term growth. The terminal enhances chemical storage, handling, and distribution capabilities, strengthening supply chains for manufacturing, energy, and industrial sectors across the UAE and international markets.

“This inauguration is more than a new address - it reflects our long-term commitment to Dubai,” said Rohan Mehta, Managing Director of Petrochem. “The facility is designed for the next three decades of growth and innovation, aligning with Dubai’s economic vision and supporting our people, partners, and stakeholders.”

The project, constructed to LEED Gold standards, includes Petrochem’s second UAE terminal and multiple office buildings. It aims to improve operational integration, expand distribution capacity, and enhance supply chain resilience, bolstering Dubai’s position as a global trade hub.

DP World leadership highlighted the terminal’s contribution to industrial development. Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO, said Petrochem’s expansion reflects confidence in Dubai as a base for long-term industrial growth and strengthens the emirate’s chemical and manufacturing sectors. Abdulla Bin Damithan, CEO & MD of DP World GCC, noted that consolidating operations and logistics at Jebel Ali allows companies to operate more efficiently across the Middle East, Africa, and beyond.

Founded in 1995 in Dubai, Petrochem has grown from a single office in Jebel Ali Free Zone into a multinational chemical distributor with operations across the Middle East, Asia, Europe, Latin America, and Africa. The new terminal underscores the company’s continued investment in Dubai as a center for industrial and economic growth.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Alexander Agafiev

Alexander Agafiev is former tech contributing writer for Forbes Monaco.

Dubai International Academic City and Dubai Knowledge Park, the emirate’s premier higher education hubs under TECOM Group PJSC, reported a 15% increase in student enrollment for the 2024-25 academic year. The combined student body now exceeds 38,500, reflecting Dubai’s ongoing development as a global education center.

Together, the two districts attract students from over 170 countries and host more than 600 academic and vocational programs, spanning bachelor’s degrees, diplomas, and doctorates. Institutions include Amity University, Curtin University, Heriot-Watt University Dubai, Middlesex University Dubai, Murdoch University Dubai, University of Birmingham Dubai, and University of Wollongong Dubai. Postgraduate offerings are strengthened by programs from the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad, The University of Manchester - Dubai, University of Bradford, and University of Strathclyde Business School UAE.

“Dubai continues to attract the world’s brightest talent,” said Marwan Abdulaziz Janahi, Senior Vice President of Dubai International Academic City and Dubai Knowledge Park. “Our districts combine internationally recognized universities, vocational institutes, and training academies to equip learners with skills aligned to the future economy.”

The districts provide specialized facilities, including built-to-suit campuses, labs, and Grade-A offices. They also host initiatives connecting students with industry leaders, such as Campus Talks and UNCOVERED, alongside strategic forums like the Knowledge Assembly, which convenes academic and business leaders to guide the emirate’s higher education priorities.

TECOM Group’s broader ecosystem supports collaboration and innovation. Students and researchers benefit from access to entrepreneurial resources through in5, an incubator that has helped launch ventures like Relphacare Technologies, founded by an Amity University Dubai student. Administrative support, including streamlined visa and corporate services, is provided via TECOM’s axs platform.

Dubai International Academic City and Dubai Knowledge Park are integral components of TECOM Group’s Education Cluster, which complements the group’s network of business districts, including Dubai Internet City, Dubai Media City, Dubai Production City, Dubai Studio City, Dubai Science Park, Dubai Design District, and Dubai Industrial City.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko

Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) will begin a pilot program for pooled school transportation in the first quarter of 2026, partnering with Yango Group and Urban Express Transport. The initiative is part of the city’s ongoing efforts to improve daily student mobility and support a sustainable transport system.

The program will operate shared buses serving multiple schools within defined geographic zones, allowing students traveling along similar routes to share transportation. RTA officials said the pilot aims to reduce traffic congestion near schools, optimize vehicle usage, and maintain high safety standards.

Ahmed Hashem Bahrozyan, CEO of the RTA Public Transport Agency, emphasized that the initiative would incorporate smart technology for trip management, vehicle tracking, and operational monitoring. “This pilot represents a step toward developing new models for school transport in Dubai, with the potential for wider rollout based on measured outcomes,” he said.

Islam Abdul Karim, Regional Head of Yango Group, noted that the project seeks to address daily mobility challenges by using data-driven route optimization and real-time operational oversight. “The initiative aims to reduce peak-hour traffic, improve service reliability, and offer a safer, more affordable option for families,” he said.

Dr. Mohammad Al Hashimi, Founder and CEO of Urban Express Transport, added that the program supports Dubai’s long-term transport goals by enhancing bus utilization and contributing to sustainable mobility solutions.

The pilot follows the signing of memoranda of understanding between RTA, Yango Group, and Urban Express Transport, formalizing the collaboration.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Alexander Agafiev

Alexander Agafiev is former tech contributing writer for Forbes Monaco.

The second edition of the Fazza Falcons Racing Cup (Telwah) began on Jan. 12 at the Lahbab Track at the Hamdan bin Mohammed Heritage Center in Dubai, under the directives of Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and President of both the International Federation for Falconry Sports and Racing and the UAE Falcons Federation.

The championship, held over a 400-meter distance, follows its inaugural edition last year, which recorded wide participation and set technical and competitive benchmarks for falconry racing. Organizers say the event is designed to build on those standards while providing a structured competitive platform for falconers.

The cup was established in recognition of the support for falconry racing from Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence. Total prizes for this year’s championship amount to AED 2.8 million.

Competitions in the Public Category (Owners - Open) were held on Jan. 12, while the Sheikh Category races are scheduled for Jan. 17 across six rounds.

Falcons competing in the Farkh category - Jeer Shaheen, Jeer Tibah, Pure Jeer, and Qarmousha - that place in the top three in the Symbol and Golden Burqa rounds of the Fazza Championship for Falconry -  Telwah, as well as first-place winners in the Cash rounds, qualify for the Fazza Falcons Racing Cup. The top three Farkh category falcons from the cup will advance to the final rounds of the Mohammed bin Rashid Falcons Cup.

Rashid bin Markhan, Secretary General of the International Federation for Falconry Sports and Racing and the UAE Falcons Federation, said the championship has established a strong national presence since its launch. He noted that senior leadership attended the inaugural edition and crowned the winners, reflecting official support for falconry as a key element of the UAE’s heritage.

The UAE Falcons Federation has published the championship’s terms and conditions through its official social media platforms to ensure participants and stakeholders have access to accurate and timely information.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Alexander Agafiev

Alexander Agafiev is former tech contributing writer for Forbes Monaco.

The Dubai Financial Audit Authority (FAA) marked the graduation of the third cohort of its Professional Diploma - Government Auditor Programme, an initiative designed to strengthen governance and transparency across Dubai government entities. The programme is delivered in partnership with the Mohammed Bin Rashid School of Government (MBRSG) and aims to prepare national talent for audit and regulatory responsibilities.

The latest cohort included 22 employees from 13 government entities. Training was delivered in two phases. The academic phase comprised 29 modules covering areas such as artificial intelligence in auditing, International Standards on Auditing, International Public Sector Accounting Standards, financial legislation, financial statement analysis, enterprise risk management, and corporate governance. The second phase focused on practical application, with participants taking part in supervised audit assignments led by FAA experts.

Abdulrahman Al Hareb, Director General of the FAA, said the programme reflects the authority’s commitment to building a qualified national workforce capable of supporting effective oversight and regulatory frameworks in line with Dubai government priorities. He noted that the partnership with MBRSG has helped provide a structured environment that prepares participants for more advanced responsibilities.

Dr. Ali bin Sebaa Al Marri, Executive President of MBRSG, said the programme aligns with the leadership’s focus on investing in Emirati talent and strengthening institutional performance. He highlighted the importance of combining academic instruction with practical experience to support transparency, sound governance, and informed financial decision-making across government operations.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko

Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai, attended the graduation of 522 content creators and new media specialists during the fourth edition of the 1 Billion Followers Summit, held in Dubai.

The graduates completed seven specialised programmes organised by the UAE Government Media Office and the New Media Academy in partnership with a range of public and private entities. The ceremony was attended by Mohammad Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs.

Speaking at the event, Sheikh Mohammed said the graduates would strengthen government communication and the country’s digital media sector by contributing to responsible and effective messaging that reflects the UAE’s values and development priorities. He described investment in people as central to future readiness and to keeping pace with rapid changes in digital media.

The graduating programmes included Impact Makers, Specialised Content Creators, Historical Content Creators, the sixth edition of the Faris Al Muhtawa Content Creators Program, the Executive Diploma in Government Digital Communication, Economic Content Pioneers, and the Social Media Professional Program. The initiatives focused on areas ranging from humanitarian storytelling and government communication to economic content, history, and professional social media management, with training that incorporated digital production skills and the use of artificial intelligence.

The graduation took place as part of the 1 Billion Followers Summit, organised by the UAE Government Media Office and held from 9 to 11 January across Emirates Towers, the Dubai International Financial Centre, and the Museum of the Future. Held under the theme “Content for Good,” the summit brought together more than 15,000 content creators and influencers and over 500 speakers with a combined global audience exceeding 3.5 billion followers.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko

Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Ports and Borders Security Council, on Tuesday opened Intersec 2026 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, underscoring Dubai’s ambition to remain a global hub for security, safety and emergency response technologies. The exhibition, now in its 27th edition, runs until 14 January.

Intersec 2026 brings together more than 1,200 exhibitors from over 60 countries and is expected to attract more than 50,000 visitors. Spanning about 65,000 square metres, the event features conferences and forums with more than 250 international experts, reflecting the growing scale and reach of the global security industry.

During his visit, Sheikh Mansoor toured pavilions from national and international companies and government entities, reviewing developments in security systems, firefighting, emergency response and artificial intelligence–enabled operations. He also visited the Dubai Civil Defense pavilion, where new technologies were showcased, including advanced firefighting drones, rescue vehicles, robotic systems and an AI platform designed to support operational decision-making.

Intersec 2026 focuses on five core sectors: homeland security and policing, cybersecurity, commercial and perimeter security, fire and rescue, and health and safety. The programme continues with the International Security Leaders’ Summit, the Fire and Rescue Conference, innovation forums and concludes with the Intersec Awards ceremony in Dubai.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko

Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

Dubai’s real estate market reached a new high in 2025, recording more than 270,000 transactions valued at AED 917 billion, a 20 percent increase from the previous year. The results mark the strongest performance in the sector’s history and reflect a market shaped by tighter regulation, more disciplined practices, and a long-term investment strategy.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai, said the results show that the market has entered a more mature phase, capable of translating investor confidence into stable, sustainable value. He pointed to clear planning, transparent regulation, and balanced growth as key factors supporting performance and quality of life.

Real estate activity remained broad-based. Total transactions across sales, leases, and related services reached 3.11 million in 2025, up 7 percent from 2024. Investment value exceeded AED 680 billion across 258,600 deals, with the number of investors rising 24 percent to about 193,100, including nearly 129,600 new investors. Resident investors accounted for 56.6 percent of the total.

Women continued to expand their role in the market, investing AED 154 billion through 76,700 transactions, with growth of 31 percent in value and 24 percent in volume. Luxury property investments reached AED 3.98 billion, while the average transition from renter to owner stood at 4.8 years.

Transaction volumes were highest in areas including Al Barsha South Fourth, Business Bay, Dubai Marina, and Dubai Airport City. By value, Business Bay, Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, and the Burj Khalifa district led the market. Mortgage activity was similarly concentrated in established and emerging districts, reflecting geographically balanced growth.

Omar Hamad Bu Shehab, Director General of the Dubai Land Department, said the 2025 performance underscored a more sustainable market anchored in governance, transparency, and data-driven policy. He noted that the results align with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and the Dubai Real Estate Sector Strategy 2033, which targets transaction volumes of AED 1 trillion and aims to strengthen Dubai’s position among the world’s leading economic cities.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Alexander Agafiev

Alexander Agafiev is former tech contributing writer for Forbes Monaco.

Mohammed bin Rashid bin Mohammed bin Rashid honoured the winner of the Educator Award during the fourth edition of the 1 Billion Followers Summit, held in Dubai. The award, launched by the summit in partnership with TikTok, recognises creators who advance digital learning and expand access to knowledge.

A specialised jury selected three finalists, with Matt Green awarded first place and a $100,000 cash prize. Green, a TikTok creator, broadcaster and author, is known for turning classroom science lessons into short rap videos designed to make complex topics accessible. He has 1.4 million followers on the platform.

The ceremony took place at the summit, described by organisers as the world’s largest gathering focused on the content creation economy. The event is organised by the UAE Government Media Office under the theme “Content for Good” and runs until 11 January across Emirates Towers, Dubai International Financial Centre, and the Museum of the Future.

The summit has drawn more than 15,000 content creators and influencers and over 500 speakers, whose combined audiences exceed 3.5 million followers worldwide.

Mohammed bin Rashid bin Mohammed bin Rashid said the summit has become a global platform for creative communities and reinforces the UAE’s role as a hub for the content creation economy. He congratulated the award’s winner and finalists, noting the role of digital tools in supporting education and community development. He described educational content as a key element in empowering individuals and supporting future generations.

The Educator Award attracted nearly 600,000 educational content creators from the Middle East and North Africa, Africa, the United Kingdom and the United States. About 108,000 met eligibility requirements, producing more than 320,000 TikTok videos under the hashtag #EducatorAward.

The finalists included Abdullah Annan, a science content creator with 6.7 million TikTok followers known for his Science Street initiative, and Dr Amy Boyington, a historian and author with 1.2 million followers who produces history-focused videos.

The award focuses on areas including science and innovation, school education, personal development, humanities, and business and finance, reflecting the summit’s emphasis on accessible and engaging educational content. The ceremony was attended by senior officials and content creators participating in the event.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko

Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.