This Week’s Highlights: Key Developments from the UAE

Catch up on 10 of the biggest stories this week, as selected by Arabian Business editors.

UAE Announces New Rules for Overseas Students

The UAE is introducing new regulations aimed at Emirati students wishing to study abroad. The Education, Human Development and Community Development Council (EHCD) has established a set of criteria designed to improve the employability of graduates. This initiative seeks to align international scholarship options with national aspirations, ensuring that students can make informed choices about their educational paths.

By emphasizing the quality of academic programs and institutions, the EHCD aims to bolster the value of degrees obtained overseas, thus enhancing career opportunities for students. This framework not only fosters informed decision-making but also optimally invests in Emirati talents to meet the demands of the job market.

RTA announces new roads and bridges on major roads in Dubai

Dubai Announces Major Road Project with New Tunnels in Jumeirah

In response to the growing demands of urban expansion, Dubai has announced a significant infrastructure project involving new tunnels around Jumeirah, Umm Suqeim, and Al Khail Road. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is committed to enhancing travel efficiency in the city.

This initiative aims to upgrade Umm Suqeim Street, increasing traffic capacity and improving overall transportation quality. The project complements ongoing upgrades, facilitating uninterrupted traffic flow—vital for both residents and visitors, amid the emirate’s comprehensive developmental plans.

Wynn Al Marjan Island, the UAE’s first integrated gaming resort, is scheduled to open in 2027.

Exclusive: Inside Wynn Resorts’ Las Vegas-Style UAE Expansion

Wynn Resorts is set to debut its first integrated gaming resort in Ras Al Khaimah, with Wynn Al Marjan Island currently 60% constructed and slated to open in early 2027. This ambitious project is a monumental leap in expanding luxury gaming experiences to the Middle East.

Arabian Business gained exclusive insight into how Wynn’s renowned operations in Las Vegas will translate to an 8,000-mile journey. The hotel promises to echo the opulence of its Las Vegas counterpart while also introducing a unique flair to the region’s hospitality landscape.

The off-plan sector maintained confidence with a 13% increase in average sales price month-on-month.

Dubai Real Estate: Villa and Townhouse Prices Soar 92% in Three Years

The real estate market in Dubai is experiencing a remarkable boom, particularly in the villa and townhouse sector, where prices have skyrocketed by 92% since May 2022. As reported by the Dubai Land Department (DLD), property transactions amounted to AED 54 billion in May alone—a significant leap from previous months.

The increase in demand can be attributed to a surge of 35% over the last year, showcasing a robust market that continues to attract both local and international buyers.

Abu Dhabi’s Fahid Island development promises luxurious coastal living.

Abu Dhabi Real Estate: Aldar Announces $10.9bn Fahid Island Development

Aldar Properties is launching an ambitious AED 40 billion ($10.9 billion) development on Fahid Island, setting a new benchmark for real estate projects in Abu Dhabi. This extensive masterplan will feature 6,000 residences, alongside pristine beaches and natural mangrove forests.

Designed for convenience and luxury, every residence will be just a stone’s throw from the water, fostering a vibrant island culture while aligning with Abu Dhabi’s commitment to high-quality education and sustainable living.

Property prices reached AED 1,535 per square foot in Dubai.

Dubai Real Estate: 73,000 Homes to Be Delivered in 2025

Exciting news from Dubai’s housing market: 73,000 new residential units are expected to be added to the city’s inventory in 2025, with an eye toward reaching 300,000 units by 2028.

Despite a quarterly drop in transaction volume, the city remains buoyant with AED 114.4 billion worth of property sales recorded in the first quarter. Analysts predict a gradual stabilization in pricing dynamics as the market adjusts to evolving supply and demand conditions.

Ajman Ports will undergo major investment as it seeks to establish a logistics hub.

Ajman Announces $272m Port Investment

In a move to position itself as a vital transport and logistics center, Ajman Ports is set to receive a AED 1 billion ($272 million) investment.

The agreement, signed by Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, aims to enhance port infrastructure while ensuring adherence to global best practices, setting the stage for increased maritime efficiency in the region.

Dubai is becoming a global education hotspot.

Dubai Student Boom: 29% Surge in International Enrolment

As Dubai positions itself as a global education power, recent statistics indicate a 29% increase in international student enrolment. Now hosting over 42,000 students across 41 institutions, the city is rapidly becoming an educational hub.

With new campuses opening and enhanced infrastructure, Dubai’s dynamic approach is redefining global higher education, attracting students from around the world.

Dubai real estate market shows signs of stabilisation.

Dubai Real Estate Market Stabilizing

The Dubai real estate market is transitioning into a “stabilization phase,” according to brokerage Asico. Following a notable surge in property prices, the landscape is set to become more balanced and sustainable, encouraging long-term investor confidence.

This shift reflects a healthy adjustment as the market adapts to previous growth patterns, paving the way for continued prosperity in the coming years.