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<title>FEDA  &#45; The Ecnomist News Magazine &#45; Latest Posts</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/rss/latest-posts</link>
<description>FEDA  &#45; The Ecnomist News Magazine &#45; Latest Posts</description>
<dc:language>en</dc:language>
<dc:rights>© 2016 &#45; 2025 FEDA Economist. All rights reserved.</dc:rights>

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<title>Al Masaood Automobiles, Etihad Rail complete first rail shipment for automotive dealership in UAE</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/al-masaood-automobiles-etihad-rail-complete-first-rail-shipment-for-automotive-dealership-in-uae</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/al-masaood-automobiles-etihad-rail-complete-first-rail-shipment-for-automotive-dealership-in-uae</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Al Masaood Automobiles and Etihad Rail Freight, a subsidiary of Etihad Rail, have completed the first-ever rail transport of finished passenger vehicles for an automotive dealership - a significant step in the evolution of the nation’s logistics sector.The milestone saw a shipment of Nissan passenger vehicles transported from ports on the Eastern Coast to the dry port at the Industrial City of Abu Dhabi (ICAD), marking a new chapter in how goods travel across the country.Al Masaood Automobiles, the authorised distributor for Nissan, INFINITI, and Renault in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra region, has partnered with Etihad Rail Freight to transport the shipment, becoming the first automotive dealer in the country to do so.This milestone signals the continued expansion of Etihad Rail Freight beyond bulk commodities into high-value, diversified cargo - while demonstrating how rail can be integrated into modern, end-to-end supply chains.The movement enabled vehicles to travel seamlessly from port to destination, improving efficiency, predictability, and delivery timelines for Al Masaood Automobiles. In a sector where timing and reliability are critical, this approach strengthens the overall customer experience by ensuring vehicles reach their destination without unnecessary delay.Irfan Tansel, CEO of Al Masaood Automobiles, said, “Every part of the customer journey matters, including how reliably and efficiently a vehicle reaches its owner. This initiative reflects the steps we are taking behind the scenes to strengthen that experience. We are proud to be the first automotive dealer in the UAE to work with Etihad Rail Freight on transporting finished vehicles. It is a strong example of what can be achieved when national infrastructure and private sector capabilities come together with a shared focus on progress and long-term value.”Omar Alsebeyi, CEO of Etihad Rail Freight, said, “This milestone demonstrates exactly what rail freight is designed to do: offer a reliable, predictable, and scalable solution that integrates seamlessly into existing supply chains. The UAE’s national rail network was built to strengthen the resilience and efficiency of the country’s logistics sector, and today, we are seeing that ambition translate into real-world impact. We look forward to building on this partnership and enabling more businesses across the UAE to benefit from rail.”Beyond operational efficiency, the move also marks a step towards more sustainable logistics. Rail transport offers a lower-emission alternative to traditional road freight, supporting efforts to reduce environmental impact across the automotive value chain. Such initiatives align with the UAE&#039;s Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative and the broader national commitment to decarbonising key economic sectors. It represents a clear, real-world demonstration of how the transition to greener logistics happens in practice.More broadly, this achievement reflects the strength of the UAE’s integrated infrastructure ecosystem where national vision and private sector capability come together to deliver practical, forward-looking solutions and support long-term economic growth. WAM ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:21:02 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Masaood, Automobiles, Etihad, Rail, complete, first, rail, shipment, for, automotive, dealership, UAE</media:keywords>
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<title>Rare diamonds gain attention as safe&#45;haven assets during global instability</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/rare-diamonds-gain-attention-as-safe-haven-assets-during-global-instability</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/rare-diamonds-gain-attention-as-safe-haven-assets-during-global-instability</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ High-net-worth individuals and family offices are increasingly reshaping their investment strategies because of rising geopolitical tensions and ongoing regional conflicts and current economic instability. Modern financial markets exhibit market volatility which has created a strong demand for protective wealth management strategies that reduce financial risk exposure to unpredictable events.Tangible assets have obtained major interest during this economic situation. Investors are now turning to assets that offer physical ownership and intrinsic value, with rare diamonds emerging as a preferred choice due to their portability, scarcity, and independence from traditional financial systems.People consider rare diamonds to serve as dependable investment assets. The diamonds become more attractive because individuals can transport them easily while keeping possession safe without needing financial institutions. The experts from the industry conduct their assessments of rare diamonds based on their restricted availability and their ongoing worldwide market demand. Natural fancy color diamonds take millions of years to form, and only a very small percentage qualify as investment-grade. The market exists because of this rare product which draws both collectors and institutional investors and ultra-high-net-worth individuals to purchase it.Dubai has become an essential global center for diamond trading because it provides access to high-quality diamonds and supports international diamond transactions. NAM - Novel Asset Management offers investors access to niche asset markets through its structured investment products which it develops in partnership with international organizations.The historical record demonstrates that rare diamonds possess high market value throughout time. The two-decade period which began twenty years ago has resulted in average annual returns of 8% for these investments which show to maintain value during economic downturns while achieving consistent growth. The investment option establishes itself as stable because of its ability to deliver consistent performance in different market environments.The active market in this segment continues to function effectively because major auction houses including Christie&#039;s and Sotheby&#039;s operate their services. The two platforms offer dedicated trading spaces which enable investors to achieve substantial profits during three to five-year investment periods. The growing global uncertainty leads to a higher demand for physical assets while market conditions become more unpredictable. The rarity of diamonds together with their small size and established value make them valuable assets. The market requires expert knowledge to handle all processes from acquisition to exit planning for successful return maximization. Eliad Cohen, Co-founder and Chief Investment Officer of NAM – Novel Asset Management explained that organizations should use both strategic market presence and trustworthy auction systems to generate value in this business sector. NAM offers complete investment solutions which use our three decades of industry knowledge and international business connections to create positive outcomes for clients. Today, rare diamonds are being increasingly recognized as luxury items, as well as strategic investments capable of maintaining wealth in times of global economic uncertainties. ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:21:02 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Rare, diamonds, gain, attention, safe-haven, assets, during, global, instability</media:keywords>
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<title>‘Young Farmer Seal’ initiative launched to redefine national food security system</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/young-farmer-seal-initiative-launched-to-redefine-national-food-security-system</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/young-farmer-seal-initiative-launched-to-redefine-national-food-security-system</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Dr Amna Bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, officially launched the ‘Young Farmer Seal’ initiative to redefine the national food security system with young hands and minds.The launch was attended by Dr Sultan Bin Saif Al Neyadi, Minister of State for Youth Affairs.Announced on day 3 of the Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition 2026 in Al Ain, themed “Family and Women Farmers”, the initiative underscores the commitment of the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) to empowering young farmers as agri-entrepreneurs and innovation leaders.In her opening speech, Dr Al Dahak praised the Emirates Youth Council for Agriculture for their role in developing the ‘Young Farmer Seal.’ She emphasised that the Seal symbolizes a bond of trust between the nation and its innovative youth, building a bridge of confidence between young farmers and consumers while empowering the next generation to lead the future of food security as envisioned by the UAE leadership.Dr Al Dahak highlighted that the initiative will boost the competitiveness of Emirati products by enabling direct access to major sales outlets and cooperative societies, creating significant economic opportunities for Emirati farmers.She stressed that the core objective of the Emirates Youth Council for Agriculture is to empower young farmers as agri-entrepreneurs, driving economic success, global competitiveness, and agricultural sustainability while positioning the UAE as a leader in food innovation.Dr Sultan Al Neyadi praised the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment for its efforts in highlighting the advancements of the UAE’s agricultural sector.He noted that the Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition brings together a diverse range of stakeholders, including government entities, academic institutions, farms, producers, and the livestock sector. This collaboration aligns with the UAE leadership’s vision to enhance national food security and ensure the sustainability of the agricultural sector.He emphasised that fostering competition and innovation across various agricultural fields drives progress and strengthens national expertise. He also highlighted the role of the Emirates Youth Council for Agriculture in empowering young people to actively contribute to the development of the agricultural and food security system.He further stated that supporting and equipping youth with the necessary tools enhances the competitiveness of local products and bolsters the nation’s efforts towards achieving food self-sufficiency.“I am proud of the supporting framework provided to our youth. These enablers and initiatives strengthen their role in this crucial sector,” he remarked.The ‘Young Farmer Seal’ initiative, developed by the Emirates Youth Council for Agriculture, is a groundbreaking national project spotlighting youth-led efforts in agriculture, livestock, and beekeeping.By awarding a certified stamp to projects meeting the highest sustainability standards, the initiative aims to build a strong national agricultural identity, boost consumer trust in local products, and elevate youth projects from basic production to competitive, high-growth entrepreneurial ventures.The initiative focuses on four key pillars. First, showcasing successful youth-led agricultural models as inspiring examples locally and globally; second, promoting modern technologies and sustainable practices to conserve resources; third, building trust in youth-produced local products; and finally, providing critical technological support to help young farmers manage their projects professionally and sustainably.The initiative is open to young Emiratis under 35, including small and medium farm owners, livestock breeders, beekeepers, and agri-food processing entrepreneurs.Eligible projects must be fully owned and managed by youth, connected to agricultural production or food processing, comply with local regulations, and pass a technical evaluation by experts to ensure quality and sustainability.The initiative features a progressive Seal classification system aligned with the young farmer’s journey and the level of experience and excellence, divided into three color-coded categories: •            Category (A) - Growth Stage (Green Seal): For beginners (0-2 years of experience), focusing on operational planning, production sustainability, and obtaining necessary licenses.Category (B) - Fruiting Stage (Orange Seal): For those with medium experience (3-4 years), demonstrating consistent application of good agricultural practices.Category (C) - Empowerment and Sustainability Stage (Red Seal): The highest level, for over five years of experience, requiring innovation in technical practices and a professional marketing and distribution plan to ensure wide consumer reach.WAM ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:21:01 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>‘Young, Farmer, Seal’, initiative, launched, redefine, national, food, security, system</media:keywords>
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<title>Sheraa launches Entrepreneurs Resilience Fund’ to empower SMEs</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/sheraa-launches-entrepreneurs-resilience-fund-to-empower-smes</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/sheraa-launches-entrepreneurs-resilience-fund-to-empower-smes</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Under the directives of Sheikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Centre (Sheraa), the Centre has launched its Entrepreneurs Resilience Fund.A fast-tracked financial, operational, and marketing support for Sharjah-based startups and SMEs, the fund enables founders to navigate current market dynamics with resilience and sustain their operations with confidence.It supports businesses in key sectors, including manufacturing, food security, and healthcare, which play an important role in maintaining economic stability.The Fund is aligned with the “Proud of UAE” campaign, contributing to broader efforts to support business continuity and economic stability.Applications are now open, with a fast-tracked evaluation process designed to speed up funding decisions and ensure timely access to support. The Fund offers equity-free, non-repayable grants, alongside a support programme and market visibility opportunities. Sheraa aims to mobilise up to Dhs5 million with the support of its strategic partners across government and private sector entities.The Fund is designed to support established businesses facing current challenges, helping them maintain operations and move forward with confidence. Startups and SMEs can apply via https://sheraa.ae/erf. The initiative is delivered through a collaborative model, bringing together strategic partners to support Sharjah’s entrepreneurial ecosystem through a shared commitment to its continued growth. The Fund focuses on supporting viable businesses that contribute to long-term economic resilience and stability.The fund is supported by Beeah Group, CE- Ventures, National Paints, Al Midfa Investments Group, Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), Careem, RAK BANK, Floward, Alaan, Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park (SPARK), Sharjah Broadcasting Authority, Sharjah Roads &amp; Transport Authority, Sharjah Majid Al Futtaim, Emirates Petroleum Company P.J.S.C, Publicis Groupe, Entrepreneur Middle East, and Inc. Arabia, Paymob.Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi said, “Sharjah’s vision, aligned with the broader direction of the UAE, is rooted in building a resilient, future-ready economy driven by innovation and entrepreneurship.Achieving this requires more than long-term ambition; it calls for systems that respond with clarity and purpose, particularly in moments that test continuity and adaptability. At Sheraa, we see our role as ensuring that founders are equipped to navigate change without losing momentum, and to continue building ventures that create lasting economic value.The Entrepreneurs Resilience Fund reflects this commitment, providing timely support that enables businesses to remain operational, make informed decisions, and contribute to an ecosystem designed to sustain progress and evolve with confidence.” Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism, said, “The UAE, guided by the vision of its wise leadership, continues to advance the entrepreneurship and SMEs sector, strengthening its competitiveness and ensuring its continuity. As a key driver of national economic growth, this sector plays a central role in accelerating the transition toward a more resilient and sustainable economic model.The launch of the Entrepreneurs Resilience Fund is the latest in a series of initiatives introduced by the Emirate of Sharjah to support this vital sector. It reflects a clear commitment to empowering entrepreneurs and startup founders, safeguarding SMEs, and enhancing their resilience, particularly in light of the current challenges facing the region. In doing so, it contributes to strengthening the national entrepreneurship ecosystem, enabling businesses to sustain their operations with confidence and competitiveness, ultimately reinforcing the UAE’s position as a leading global hub for startups and entrepreneurship.” Najla Al Midfa, Vice Chairperson of Sheraa, said, “Startups and SMEs are not a footnote to economic resilience, they are its foundation. They sustain employment, anchor supply chains, and continue to build even when conditions demand more of them than before. But a founder’s ability to push forward is never determined by ambition alone. It is shaped by the environment around them, and whether that environment is structured to respond when it matters most. Periods of disruption do not pause the work of building a business, and they cannot be met with hesitation.The Entrepreneurs Resilience Fund reflects Sheraa’s conviction that an ecosystem earns its value precisely in these moments, by showing up with the right support, at the right time, in a form that founders can act on.The nation’s economic future is being built today, company by company, decision by decision, and this Fund ensures that the pressure of the present does not determine the potential of what comes next.”The fund will provide financial support to selected startups that will benefit from tailored programming, including one-on-on ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:21:01 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Sheraa, launches, Entrepreneurs, Resilience, Fund’, empower, SMEs</media:keywords>
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<title>Ajman launches comprehensive tourism support package</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/ajman-launches-comprehensive-tourism-support-package</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/ajman-launches-comprehensive-tourism-support-package</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Inayat-ur-Rahman, Business Editor / WAMAJMAN: Under the directives of Sheikh Ammar Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Crown Prince of Ajman and Chairman of the Executive Council, the Ajman Department of Tourism, Culture and Media announced the launch of a comprehensive package of incentives aimed at supporting tourism activities, attracting investments, and enhancing the competitiveness of the tourism sector in the Emirate.These incentives fall within the vision of the Crown Prince of Ajman to develop the tourism business environment and strengthen the sector’s sustainability and resilience in the face of various challenges. The package includes a range of targeted exemptions and incentives covering key aspects of operations, licensing, and marketing, supporting tourism establishments in the Emirate, enhancing their operational efficiency, and strengthening their competitiveness.The package includes several measures and benefits, such as the deferral of tourism fee payments for all tourism establishments for six months, effective 1st March 2026, exemption from late payment penalties upon licence renewal during the same period, as well as exemptions on event permit fees and licence renewal fees.It also includes the introduction of a flexible payment scheme allowing instalment of dues without interest, exemption of museum visitors from entry fees until the end of 2026, and exemption of tourism establishments from participation fees in exhibitions and promotional workshops organised or participated in by the Department.Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Ajman Department of Tourism, Culture &amp; Media, affirmed that the package aims to deliver a direct impact in stimulating tourism activity in the Emirate by supporting tourism establishments and enhancing the quality of services provided to visitors, thereby increasing occupancy rates, extending tourist stays, and boosting tourism spending.He added, “These measures enhance the Emirate’s appeal as a promising investment destination, as the financial and regulatory incentives and exemptions offered play a key role in reducing operating costs and improving the business environment, encouraging new qualitative investments in tourism, cultural, and entertainment projects, and contributing to sustainable growth across various economic sectors in Ajman.”Mahmood Khaleel Al Hashmi, Director-General of the Ajman Department of Tourism, Culture and Media, stated that these incentives stem from the Department’s vision that the tourism sector represents a key pillar of Ajman’s comprehensive development journey, noting that supporting and empowering tourism establishments is a direct investment in the Emirate’s future and economy.He added, “We are committed to working closely with our partners in the private sector to further strengthen Ajman’s position as a distinguished tourism destination that attracts visitors from around the world.”Al Hashmi noted that these measures represent a comprehensive strategic package aimed at stimulating investment and boosting tourism activity in the Emirate, reinforcing Ajman’s position as an attractive business environment.Iftikhar Hamdani Area General Manager of Bahi Ajman Palace Hotel expressed his strong endorsement of the Ajman Department of Tourism, Culture and Media’s newly launched incentive package — a forward-thinking relief programme designed to reinvigorate the Emirate’s hospitality sector at a pivotal moment.Introduced under the visionary leadership of Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Crown Prince of Ajman and Chairman of the Ajman Executive Council, this initiative demonstrates the Ajman government’s acute understanding of the pressures facing tourism and hospitality businesses nowadays. At a time when hotels are navigating reduced occupancy, compressed margins, and sustained fixed overheads, this programme arrives as both a lifeline and a statement of confidence in the sector’s future.“We are deeply grateful for this decisive and well-calibrated response from the Ajman Department of Tourism, Culture and Media under the leadership of Sheikh Abdul Aziz Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Chairman of Ajman Department of Tourism, Culture and Media &amp; Mahmoud Alhasmi, Director General of Ajman Department of Tourism, Culture and Media,” said Iftikhar Hamdani, Area General Manager of Bahi Ajman Palace Hotel.“The six-month deferral on tourism fee payments, the waiver of late payment penalties, and the introduction of flexible payment schemes are not simply administrative adjustments — they are a genuine acknowledgment of the on-the-ground reality that hoteliers across Ajman have been managing. This kind of responsive governance strengthens the trust between the private sector and government, and that trust is the foundation of a resilient tourism economy”, added by Iftikhar Hamdani. ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:21:01 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Ajman, launches, comprehensive, tourism, support, package</media:keywords>
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<title>Dubai Investments AGM approves 25% cash dividend, elects nine board members</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/dubai-investments-agm-approves-25-cash-dividend-elects-nine-board-members</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/dubai-investments-agm-approves-25-cash-dividend-elects-nine-board-members</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Dubai Investments announced the distribution of a 25% cash dividend (Dhs0.25 per share) for the financial year ended 31st December 2025, following shareholder approval at the Company’s 30th Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on 23rd April 2026.The approved dividend reflects the Group’s strong financial performance and disciplined capital allocation approach, as Dubai Investments marks over three decades of sustained operations and value creation.During the AGM, shareholders also approved the election of nine board members for the new term, in accordance with the Company’s Articles of Association and applicable regulatory requirements.The elected board members include Khalid Jassim Mohd Bin Kalban, Ahmed Salem Abdulla Salem Alhosani, Mohamed Saif Darwish Ahmed Alketbi, Faisal Abdulaziz Alshaikhmohamed Alkhazraji, Ali Fardan Ali Alfardan, Abdulrahman Ghanem Abdulrahman Almutaiwee, Hussain Nasser Ahmed Lootah, Khaled Mohammad Ali Alkamda and Hind Abdulrahman Qassim Mohammad Alali.Speaking at the AGM, Abdulrahman Ghanem Abdulrahman Al Mutaiwee, Chairman of Dubai Investments, acknowledged that the Group delivered a solid performance in 2025, supported by disciplined execution and a stable revenue base, with contributions across its diversified business segments, including real estate, financial investments and manufacturing. He noted that, in parallel, the Group continues to invest selectively in defensive and essential sectors such as education, healthcare and hospitality, which provide portfolio resilience, recurring demand and long term stability, emphasising that diversification remains a core strength enabling Dubai Investments to navigate market cycles effectively while maintaining a clear focus on long term value creation.Looking ahead, the Chairman stated that the Group remains cautiously optimistic about 2026. While global economic conditions continue to present uncertainties, he highlighted that the UAE economy is expected to remain resilient. Supported by the Group’s diversified portfolio of businesses, he affirmed that Dubai Investments is well positioned to navigate external challenges while remaining focused on sustainable and long term value creation.The AGM also witnessed the approval of all other resolutions presented by the Dubai Investments Board of Directors, in line with the agenda circulated to the shareholders.WAM ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:21:01 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Dubai, Investments, AGM, approves, 25, cash, dividend, elects, nine, board, members</media:keywords>
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<title>Etihad supercharges US Network: Chicago goes double daily as Charlotte rises to daily service</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/etihad-supercharges-us-network-chicago-goes-double-daily-as-charlotte-rises-to-daily-service</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/etihad-supercharges-us-network-chicago-goes-double-daily-as-charlotte-rises-to-daily-service</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, is accelerating its growth in the United States with two major enhancements to its North American network, increasing capacity and connectivity across key markets.Chicago O’Hare will move to double-daily service, while Charlotte will increase to daily flights from 15 June, building on strong early performance following the launch of services on 20th March 2026.Together, the enhancements significantly expand Etihad’s US footprint, strengthening connectivity between North America and high-growth markets across India and Asia-Pacific, while improving access to the U.S. domestic network through partner airlines.The expanded schedule will offer travellers greater flexibility and more seamless connections beyond Chicago and Charlotte to major cities across the United States, and onwards across Etihad’s global network. Both routes will be operated by Etihad’s Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, featuring 32 Business and 271 Economy seats.Chicago remains one of Etihad’s most established gateways in North America. Moving to double-daily service will deepen connectivity and unlock a broader range of one-stop journeys via Abu Dhabi to high-demand destinations across Etihad’s network.These include 11 gateways across India – Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad and Mumbai – as well as key Asia-Pacific destinations such as Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur and Manila.Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer at Etihad Airways, said, “Chicago continues to be a cornerstone of our US network. Moving to double-daily flights reflects the sustained performance of the route and enables us to offer guests greater flexibility while deepening connectivity through Abu Dhabi, strengthening links to key markets across India and Asia-Pacific.”Following the successful launch of services in March, Etihad will increase its Charlotte service from four-weekly to daily from 15 June until 8 September, marking one of the fastest route expansions in the airline’s network.The move reflects strong demand from both point-to-point and connecting traffic and reinforces Etihad’s long-term commitment to the market.The daily service strengthens links between Charlotte and Etihad’s global network, enabling efficient one-stop connections via Abu Dhabi to key destinations across India and Asia-Pacific, while also supporting inbound travel to the United States.De added, “We are grateful to the people of Charlotte for the strong support they have shown since launch. Scaling to daily service so rapidly after launching is a clear signal of how quickly the route is gaining traction and the role it can play in our U.S. network.“The increase strengthens links between the Southeast U.S. and our global network, supporting both passenger and cargo flows while enabling efficient access to key markets across India and Asia-Pacific.”The expansion forms part of Etihad’s phased approach to growing its network, with additional capacity deployed in line with demand across key markets. The enhanced schedule strengthens connectivity between Abu Dhabi and key destinations across the Middle East, India, South Asia and beyond, while also improving access to the US domestic market through Etihad’s partner airlines. WAM ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:21:01 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Etihad, supercharges, Network:, Chicago, goes, double, daily, Charlotte, rises, daily, service</media:keywords>
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<title>Oil prices surge, gold retreats as dollar strengthens</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/oil-prices-surge-gold-retreats-as-dollar-strengthens</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/oil-prices-surge-gold-retreats-as-dollar-strengthens</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Oil prices surged at the start of Asian trading on Monday, with gains exceeding 2%. Brent crude futures rose by $2.16, or 2.05%, to reach $107.49 a barrel—the highest level since 7 April.Similarly, US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) increased by $1.77, or 1.88%, to trade at $96.17 a barrel.In contrast, gold prices retreated as a strengthening dollar weighed on the metal. Spot gold fell by 0.3% to $4,694.26 per ounce by 00:59 GMT, following a 2.5% loss last week that halted a four-week winning streak. US gold futures for June delivery also declined, falling 0.9% to $4,697.60.Among other precious metals, spot silver decreased by 0.3% to $75.48 per ounce. Platinum also saw a 0.3% drop to $2,005.15, while palladium followed the downward trend, falling 0.3% to $1,492.22.WAM ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:21:00 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Oil, prices, surge, gold, retreats, dollar, strengthens</media:keywords>
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<title>Google to invest up to $40 billion in Anthropic</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/google-to-invest-up-to-40-billion-in-anthropic</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/google-to-invest-up-to-40-billion-in-anthropic</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Google is planning to invest up to $40 billion in Anthropic, the artificial intelligence firm confirmed, expanding a long-standing alliance between the two companies.The investment builds on a partnership in which Anthropic will use custom Google chips and cloud computing services to power its technology.An Anthropic representative confirmed to AFP that the agreement sees an initial $10 billion investment from Google. The remaining $30 billion will depend on meeting performance milestones.The announcement came just days after Amazon revealed plans to boost its collaboration with Anthropic with a new $5 billion investment, and a plan to invest $20 billion more if performance goals are met.For its part, Anthropic said it has committed to spending more than $100 billion on Amazon Web Services (AWS) technology to power AI in the coming decade.Anthropic is among AI sector rivals spending tens of billions of dollars on computing infrastructure to lead in the technology.Anthropic said in early April that it had tripled its annualized revenues quarter-on-quarter to over $30 billion -- outpacing OpenAI for the first time.Anthropic chief executive Dario Amodei visited the White House, where both sides struck a friendly tone, following a dispute over the tech company’s refusal to grant the military unconditional use of its AI models.WAM ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:21:00 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Google, invest, 40, billion, Anthropic</media:keywords>
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<title>India&#45;NZ pact sees 5,000 temporary employment visas for Indian professionals</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/india-nz-pact-sees-5000-temporary-employment-visas-for-indian-professionals</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/india-nz-pact-sees-5000-temporary-employment-visas-for-indian-professionals</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ India and New Zealand signed a free trade agreement (FTA) ​on Monday, lowering tariffs ⁠on key fruit imports such as kiwifruit and apples, expanding opportunities for Indian exports ‌and easing visa access as the nations ‌deepen economic ties.Concluded in December after about nine months of talks, the pact is one of the South Asian nation&#039;s fastest trade deals, and will cut or remove tariffs on 95% of New Zealand&#039;s exports to India, including seafood, iron, steel and scrap ‌aluminium.&quot;The benefits of this FTA are widespread,&quot; New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said in a statement, adding that it would ⁠open the doors of opportunity to 1.4 billion consumers in the Indian market.The deal also provides a quota of 5,000 temporary employment visas for Indian professionals and 1,000 working holiday visas, while easing post-study work rights for Indian students, Indian officials said.&quot;New Zealand has also committed to invest $20 billion,&quot; Indian Trade Minister Piyush Goyal said after signing the pact with his counterpart Todd McClay in the presence of business leaders from both countries.In agriculture, India kept sensitive sectors such as dairy, coffee, sugar, spices, edible oils and rubber outside market access commitments to protect domestic producers, he said.That was a disappointment for New Zealand&#039;s dairy industry, its largest export sector.The agreement ​is part of India&#039;s push to diversify exports amid global trade tension, such as uncertainty over US ‌tariffs and the Middle East conflict.New Delhi has also advanced trade talks with Britain, Oman and the European Union as it pushes for wider market access with major partners.Under the deal, New Zealand will offer market access across 118 services sectors from the ⁠professional, audio-visual and computer-related to construction, telecoms and tourism.It requires approval from New Zealand&#039;s parliament, but is expected ​to pass ‌after support expressed by the opposition Labour Party last week. Trade agreements in New Zealand have historically received bipartisan support.The pact will lower tariffs on wine over 10 years and allow immediate duty-free access for dairy and other food ingredients meant for re-export, while phasing in duty-free access for bulk infant formula and other high-value dairy products over ‌seven years, and halving a ‌tariff on high-value milk albumins within a New Zealand-specific quota.McClay ⁠said the deal would support New Zealand’s goal of doubling exports in 10 years.&quot;This deal will ‌deliver thousands of jobs and billions of dollars in additional exports.&quot;More than half of New Zealand&#039;s exports to India will become duty-free immediately, with tariffs on other products reduced over time, New Zealand said in ⁠a statement.The deal is expected to boost key Indian export sectors such as textiles, leather, pharmaceuticals, engineering goods ​and automobiles, while allowing duty-free access to industrial inputs such as wooden logs, coking coal and metal scrap.Two-way trade remains modest. Indian data showed merchandise trade at about $1.3 billion in 2024/25, while total goods and services trade ⁠was estimated at roughly $2.4 billion in 2024.Reuters ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.gulftoday.ae/gulftoday/uploads/images/2026/04/27/1073995.webp" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:21:00 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>India-NZ, pact, sees, 5, 000, temporary, employment, visas, for, Indian, professionals</media:keywords>
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<title>Bloom Holding introduces next&#45;generation digital solutions to elevate broker, owner, and resident experiences</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/bloom-holding-introduces-next-generation-digital-solutions-to-elevate-broker-owner-and-resident-experiences</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/bloom-holding-introduces-next-generation-digital-solutions-to-elevate-broker-owner-and-resident-experiences</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Bloom Holding, one of the UAE’s foremost real estate development companies, has announced the launch of three innovative digital applications that redefine how brokers, property owners, and residents engage with the company’s ecosystem.Bloom Holding is introducing “Bloom Partners”, “Bloom Community App”, and “Bloom Holding Super App”, each designed to deliver seamless, connected, and efficient user experiences across all stages of property ownership and community living.“Bloom Partners”, an advanced platform for real estate agencies and brokers, enhances transparency and efficiency across the sales process. The upgraded web and mobile versions allow both UAE-based and international brokers to register, access real-time inventory, track commissions, and monitor team performance through a dedicated dashboard. The platform also enables agencies to manage leads, communicate directly with Bloom Holding’s support team, and gain access to exclusive inventories based on performance.“Bloom Community App” is designed to enhance the daily living experience for Bloom residents and homeowners through a centralized digital platform that simplifies every aspect of community life. The app enables users to manage community services, submit move-in or renewal requests, make payments, track service requests, and stay informed about events and announcements.“Bloom Holding Super App” serves as a unified platform for property owners, enabling them to manage all payments related to instalments, maintenance, and service charges through a seamless and secure interface. It focuses on providing convenience and real-time visibility into property-related financial transactions, with expanded features under development.Syed Ashar Ahmed – Senior Director Information Technology, said: “At Bloom Holding, we are continuously innovating to enhance the experience of everyone connected to our communities, from our brokers and investors to our residents and homeowners. The launch of these three digital platforms marks a significant milestone, enabling greater transparency, connectivity, and efficiency across every interaction. This step reinforces our long-term vision to create smarter, more integrated communities and reflects our unwavering commitment to delivering a seamless and enriched living experience for all.”These applications form a key part of Bloom Holding’s broader strategy to leverage digital innovation and data-driven solutions, ensuring that every stakeholder enjoys an elevated, seamless experience aligned with the company’s commitment to excellence. ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.gulftoday.ae/gulftoday/uploads/images/2026/04/27/1073942.webp" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:21:00 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Bloom, Holding, introduces, next-generation, digital, solutions, elevate, broker, owner, and, resident, experiences</media:keywords>
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<title>UAE ranks first globally for 5th year in a row in entrepreneurship environment</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/uae-ranks-first-globally-for-5th-year-in-a-row-in-entrepreneurship-environment</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/uae-ranks-first-globally-for-5th-year-in-a-row-in-entrepreneurship-environment</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ The UAE maintained its global leadership in the entrepreneurship environment, ranking first globally for the fifth consecutive year in the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) 2025/2026 report, surpassing many advanced economies and affirming its position as the best environment for starting and conducting new businesses worldwide.The UAE ranked first among high-income economies in 8 indicators in the report, including: physical infrastructure, government policies in terms of support and suitability, government policies related to taxes and bureaucracy, government entrepreneurship programmes, R&amp;D transfer, ease of entry in terms of market dynamics, ease of entry in terms of burdens and regulations, and entrepreneurial education, which reflects the integration and advancement of the supportive environment for entrepreneurship and the establishment of entrepreneurial ventures and startups.The UAE also ranked second globally in the entrepreneurial finance and ease of access to entrepreneurial finance indicators, which confirms the strength of the financial system and its ability to support entrepreneurs, and the readiness of the country&#039;s economic environment to empower emerging projects and enhance their growth and expansion opportunities.The country is also among only 4 nations that have successfully achieved or exceeded the &quot;sufficiency&quot; level in all conditions of the index&#039;s entrepreneurial framework, ensuring that the entrepreneurial environment in the UAE remains among the best globally, supported by infrastructure, government policies, and digital readiness. ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.gulftoday.ae/gulftoday/uploads/images/2026/04/26/1073783.webp" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:21:00 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>UAE, ranks, first, globally, for, 5th, year, row, entrepreneurship, environment</media:keywords>
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<title>Ministry of Finance launches ‘Federal Government Public Debt 2022–2025’ report</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/ministry-of-finance-launches-federal-government-public-debt-20222025-report</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/ministry-of-finance-launches-federal-government-public-debt-20222025-report</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ The Ministry of Finance (MoF) has launched the ‘Federal Government Public Debt 2022–2025’ report titled ‘Public Debt: Efficiency and Sustainable Financing,’ a strategic document and national reference that highlights the advanced policies adopted by the UAE in managing federal public debt through 31st December 2025.The report showcases the UAE’s success in developing an advanced sovereign debt market that enhances economic stability and reinforces the efficiency of public resource management in line with the highest global standards, demonstrating the institutional efficiency the country has achieved in aligning its financing needs with its sustainable development objectives.Sheikh Maktoum Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of the UAE, stated, “The UAE will continue to solidify and upgrade its advanced economic system while driven by a long-term vision and sustainable financial planning, under the wise leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai.”“Over the past decades, the UAE has successfully built a strong and agile financial system, enabling the country to achieve leading development milestones and adapt to global economic shifts. This progress will undoubtedly contribute to achieving the national aspirations outlined in ‘We the UAE 2031’ and the UAE Centennial 2071,” Sheikh Maktoum said.Sheikh Maktoum Bin Mohammed added, “Public debt management stands out as a strategic tool to strike a balance between spending efficiency and resource sustainability. It plays a key role in creating a robust and attractive financial and investment environment by developing an efficient, transparent, and diversified sovereign debt market. This would not only contribute to enhancing financial system stability but would also provide policymakers with greater flexibility in addressing economic challenges.”Sheikh Maktoum noted that, in light of accelerating global economic and technological transformations, the UAE has adopted a proactive approach that combines economic ambition with fiscal discipline. Public debt management, Sheikh Maktoum said, is fundamental to strengthening the country’s ability to maintain strong credit ratings, diversify funding sources, and support the sustainability of long-term growth.He emphasised that the achievements recorded by the UAE in both domestic and international debt markets were the results of a clear vision and a comprehensive institutional approach that prioritises close collaboration across all government entities.He noted that hedging and risk management strategies are integral components of this model, enhancing the UAE’s capacity to address its financing requirements while preserving service quality and financial stability, and supporting sustainable prosperity over the long term.Mohamed Bin Hadi Al Hussaini, Minister of State for Financial Affairs, said, “The UAE attaches utmost importance to improving the efficiency of public debt management, viewing it as a fundamental part of its advanced financial framework, and has set out a national vision founded on robust financial governance and forward-looking planning.“Accordingly, the Ministry of Finance is developing sovereign debt instruments in line with global best practices, reinforcing the UAE’s commitment to achieving sustainable financial stability that supports its development agenda.”Al Hussaini added that, since the launch of the first federal dirham-denominated issuances, the Ministry has moved steadily to build a transparent, reliable and investment-friendly domestic debt market, providing long-term financing tools that support economic diversification policies, bolster market efficiency, and broaden the investor base both locally and internationally.He explained that the federal debt strategy is built on striking a balance between reducing borrowing costs and managing risks with flexibility and professionalism. The strategy, he noted, incorporates instrument diversification, maturity distribution, and the implementation of effective hedging policies, critical in navigating an evolving global financial landscape. This framework, he said, has enabled the UAE to maintain stable funding flows that meet its strategic financial needs.The report includes a comprehensive overview of the federal government’s public debt strategy, and highlights the Ministry of Finance’s success in launching a structured public debt issuance programme, which includes UAE dirham-denominated Treasury Bonds and Islamic Treasury Sukuk.As of the end of December 2025, a total of 23 auctions for Islamic Treasury Sukuk were conducted, with a total value of Dhs27 billion, alongside 8 Treasury Bond auctions, totalling Dhs11.2 billion in issuances, all of which were listed on Nasdaq Dubai.The report also outlines the performance of the US dollar-denomi ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.gulftoday.ae/gulftoday/uploads/images/2026/04/26/1073736.webp" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:21:00 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Ministry, Finance, launches, ‘Federal, Government, Public, Debt, 2022–2025’, report</media:keywords>
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<title>Cyber Security Council stresses importance of protecting digital identity</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/cyber-security-council-stresses-importance-of-protecting-digital-identity</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/cyber-security-council-stresses-importance-of-protecting-digital-identity</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ The UAE Cyber Security Council has emphasised the importance of protecting digital identity, describing it as one of the most valuable assets for both individuals and institutions.The council noted that the data associated with digital identity, including personal information, financial transactions and health records, makes it a critical asset that individuals must ensure is adequately protected.In statements to Emirates News Agency (WAM), the council said that with the proliferation of artificial intelligence tools, the Internet of Things and cloud applications, digital identity has become an easy target for cyber attackers who exploit any vulnerability for impersonation, fraud or selling data on the black market. It stressed that protecting digital identity is not a technical luxury, but a necessity to safeguard privacy, prevent fraud and ensure the continuity of digital services without disruption or significant financial losses.The council added that indicators show a notable increase in cyberattacks targeting digital identities, rising by 32 per cent during the first half of this year, particularly with the growing reliance on digital services and smart applications.It underscored the importance of adopting advanced solutions such as multi-factor authentication, which has proven capable of preventing more than 99 percent of identity-related attacks, making it one of the most effective tools for user protection.It warned that breaches of digital identity may extend beyond data loss to include identity theft, fraud and financial losses, as well as negative impacts on personal and professional reputation. These multiple risks make protecting digital identity a strategic necessity rather than merely a technical option.The council outlined several key measures, including avoiding the sharing of sensitive personal information, refraining from reusing weak passwords, choosing strong and complex passwords, and enabling multi-factor authentication. It stressed that, despite their simplicity, these steps form the first line of defence against growing threats.The council affirmed that the battle to protect digital identity is no longer purely technical but also one of awareness and behaviour, noting that advanced technologies alone are insufficient without informed users capable of managing risks effectively.With ongoing digital transformation and rapid innovation, achieving a balance between usability and security remains a key challenge, requiring integration between regulatory policies, modern technologies and a strong digital culture capable of protecting individuals and communities alike.WAM ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.gulftoday.ae/gulftoday/uploads/images/2026/04/26/1073727.webp" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:21:00 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Cyber, Security, Council, stresses, importance, protecting, digital, identity</media:keywords>
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<title>Dubai Delivery Business Group: Dubai stands as global benchmark for efficiency in transport, logistics</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/dubai-delivery-business-group-dubai-stands-as-global-benchmark-for-efficiency-in-transport-logistics</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/dubai-delivery-business-group-dubai-stands-as-global-benchmark-for-efficiency-in-transport-logistics</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Members of the Dubai Delivery Business Group, which operates under the umbrella of Dubai Chamber of Commerce, have affirmed that the continuity of delivery and last-mile logistics services in Dubai highlights the emirate&#039;s high level of operational resilience and strong competitive advantages.The members noted that a combination of several factors has enabled the delivery sector to effectively serve rapidly growing demand from both consumers and businesses while maintaining efficient and sustainable operations, despite current global challenges. These include proactive government support, world-class logistics infrastructure, and strong coordination between the public and private sectors.The business leaders noted that Dubai has cultivated an enabling environment where the delivery sector can thrive through a combination of agile regulations, advanced technology, and strategic investment.They pointed out that this has allowed operators not only to sustain services, but also to scale and innovate, reinforcing Dubai’s status as a global leader in logistics and commerce. The close coordination and support provided by Dubai Chamber of Commerce was also highlighted as instrumental in addressing operational needs and fostering a unified response to an evolving market landscape.Mehreen Inderyas, Chairwoman of the Dubai Delivery Business Group, stated that Dubai’s resilience is underpinned by its diversified supply chains, strategic geographic location, and forward-thinking policies. “The emirate’s agile regulatory framework and strong public-private collaboration have enabled rapid response to external disruptions, while advanced digital capabilities have ensured continuity and efficiency across last-mile operations,” she said.Inderyas noted that despite global uncertainties, the sector remains robust and highly adaptable: “Current capacity is sufficient and supported by ongoing investments in fleet expansion, warehousing, and technology. Looking ahead, the sector is well-positioned to scale further, leveraging innovation and data-driven logistics to meet increasing demand across both consumer and business segments.”She also praised the government’s critical role in mitigating risks by ensuring business continuity and enhancing trade flows, which has solidified Dubai’s position as a reliable global logistics hub.Shahid Nadeem, Managing Director of Zone Delivery Services, explained that the emirate’s resilience has been carefully built over time: “Dubai’s uninterrupted delivery flow is the result of deliberate long-term investment, centralised coordination, and a tech-enabled private sector. The system is designed with redundancy and flexibility, allowing it to absorb shocks while maintaining service levels.”Nadeem emphasised that efficiency gains through AI, micro-fulfilment, and multi-modal logistics are essential, stating: “The net effect is that Dubai’s logistics sector doesn’t just grow; it operates with continuity under stress, which is the real differentiator.” He also credited the Dubai government with removing operational barriers, reducing regulatory friction through digitisation, and managing disruptions with a rapid, centralised response.Manoj Tiwari, Founder and CEO of Express Vulcan Delivery Services, highlighted the sector&#039;s impressive performance and readiness for the future. “Dubai’s last-mile ecosystem is already operating at a high level of efficiency, driven by strong infrastructure, tech adoption, and a highly competitive operator landscape,&quot; Tiwari stated.“What’s more impressive is its ability to scale. Through micro-fulfilment, optimised routing, and data-led demand planning, the sector is well-positioned to meet the growing expectations of both consumers and businesses without compromising speed or reliability.”He pointed to the enabling environment created by the government, noting: “Key challenges around congestion, compliance, and standardisation have been proactively addressed, allowing operators to focus on execution while maintaining service excellence at scale.”Ahmed Mahmoud Ahmed Youssef, CEO of R A M Delivery Services, said: “Dubai’s success comes from strong infrastructure, flexible government regulations, and advanced digital systems.” He noted that the adaptiveness of delivery companies allows them to scale operations quickly and maintain smooth service, even during periods of high demand.Youssef expressed confidence in the delivery sector’s long-term outlook: “The sector currently has strong capacity and is efficiently meeting demand. With continuous investment in technology, fleet expansion, and smart logistics, the sector is well-prepared to handle future growth and increasing order volumes.”Suhail Pirani, Managing Partner of Bolt Delivery Services, credited the sector’s resilience to the combination of Dubai’s infrastructure, strong local authority support, and the commitment of its workforce. He remarked: “Delivery service being recognised as an essential service industry, w ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.gulftoday.ae/gulftoday/uploads/images/2026/04/26/1073720.webp" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:21:00 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Dubai, Delivery, Business, Group:, Dubai, stands, global, benchmark, for, efficiency, transport, logistics</media:keywords>
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<title>Why GBP markets is entering the conversation among multi&#45;asset trading platforms</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/why-gbp-markets-is-entering-the-conversation-among-multi-asset-trading-platforms</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/why-gbp-markets-is-entering-the-conversation-among-multi-asset-trading-platforms</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Online brokerage firms are facing a more demanding audience than they did just a few years ago. Traders and self-directed investors now expect more than access to a handful of markets and a basic execution interface. They want broader product coverage, stronger mobile access, clearer risk controls, and a trading environment that feels responsive under changing market conditions. Within that competitive setting, GBP Markets is seeking to position itself as a modern brokerage brand built around active global market participation.The company presents itself as a multi-asset trading platform that allows clients to access forex, global indices, shares, commodities, precious metals, and energy products through one account. That type of all-in-one market access has become a central feature of the online brokerage industry as investors look for ways to manage different forms of exposure without relying on several platforms at once.A GBP Markets review begins with the scale of the offering. Based on the company’s published materials, the platform provides access to more than 1,600 tradable instruments, including over 70 forex pairs and more than 20 global indices. For investors comparing platforms, that kind of range can matter because it offers flexibility across asset classes and allows different strategies to sit within one environment.That breadth also reflects a broader shift in user expectations. Investors are no longer looking only at whether a brokerage can open access to a market. They are also looking at how well the platform supports day-to-day decision making. Product depth, execution tools, and account visibility are now part of the larger value proposition.A closer gbpmarkets.com review would also focus on accessibility across devices. GBP Markets says its platform is available via web, iOS, Android, and tablet, allowing clients to monitor positions, adjust orders, and track live pricing from a synchronised environment. That feature is increasingly important as users move between desktop and mobile throughout the trading day and expect continuity across each touchpoint.The company also places notable emphasis on control and structure. Its platform messaging highlights real-time pricing, advanced charting, and standard order tools such as stop loss and take profit. These are familiar features in the brokerage industry, but the way they are framed suggests that GBP Markets is trying to appeal to users who want a more disciplined approach to market participation rather than a purely promotional trading pitch.Another part of the company’s strategy is its account segmentation. GBP Markets offers multiple account categories, ranging from introductory access to Premium, Exclusive, and VIP levels. This layered structure indicates an effort to serve a wide range of users, from those entering the market with smaller allocations to more active participants seeking enhanced support and trading conditions.The higher-tier service model adds another dimension to the offering. According to the company’s materials, qualifying clients may receive relationship-led support, platform guidance, priority handling, and broader access to market commentary. Across the brokerage sector, these service elements have become increasingly relevant as firms compete on client experience as much as on platform access.From an operating standpoint, GBP Markets states that it operates under licence in the Union of Comoros and applies defined compliance procedures across onboarding, funding, and platform activity. For prospective users, those details are likely to form part of the usual due diligence process when evaluating any brokerage provider.The more important long-term question is whether newer firms such as GBP Markets can turn broad access and platform functionality into durable trust. The online brokerage market is crowded, and product range alone is rarely enough to sustain momentum. Investors tend to assess a platform over time based on consistency, support quality, transparency, and how well the trading environment performs when markets become more volatile.For readers approaching the subject through a GBP Markets review or a gbpmarkets.com review, the company appears to be aligning itself with the current direction of the brokerage industry. The brand is emphasising multi-asset access, responsive technology, and a more structured client experience. In a market where investors increasingly want flexibility without sacrificing usability, that is a positioning strategy that may help the platform gain attention among users looking for a broader trading environment.   ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.gulftoday.ae/gulftoday/uploads/images/2026/04/26/1073686.webp" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:21:00 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Why, GBP, markets, entering, the, conversation, among, multi-asset, trading, platforms</media:keywords>
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<title>Dubai real estate sales reach Dhs4 billion in a single day</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/dubai-real-estate-sales-reach-dhs4-billion-in-a-single-day</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/dubai-real-estate-sales-reach-dhs4-billion-in-a-single-day</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Dubai real estate transactions at the start of the week totalled Dhs6.11 billion, resulting from 1,360 deals, according to Dubai REST app operated by the Dubai Land Department.Monday’s sales reached nearly Dhs4 billion, a record high for several weeks, resulting from 877 transactions, the most notable of which were: Saih Shuaib 1 (Dhs711 million), Palm Jebel Ali (Dhs649 million), Business Bay (Dhs580 million) and Dubai Islands (Dhs173 million).Mortgages totalled Dhs820.5 million, resulting from 427 transactions, the largest of which were in: Dubai Silicon Oasis (Dhs201.2 million), Business Bay (Dhs165 million) and Ras Al Khor Industrial Area 2 (Dhs51.6 million).Land gift deals amounted to Dhs1.35 billion across 56 transactions, the most notable being: Dubai Islands (Dhs734.5 million), The World Islands (Dhs209.2 million), and Palm Jumeirah (Dhs158.5 million). ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.gulftoday.ae/gulftoday/uploads/images/2026/04/27/1074062.webp" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:20:59 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Dubai, real, estate, sales, reach, Dhs4, billion, single, day</media:keywords>
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<title>Aldar Q1 net profit rises 20% to Dhs2.3 billion</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/aldar-q1-net-profit-rises-20-to-dhs23-billion</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/aldar-q1-net-profit-rises-20-to-dhs23-billion</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Aldar Group recorded strong financial and operational results during the first quarter of 2026, with net profit after tax increasing 20 per cent year-on-year (YoY) to Dhs2.3 billion, driven by the realisation of development revenue backlog and resilient earnings from a diversified, defensive investment properties portfolio.Earnings per share for the Q1 2026 period increased 25 per cent YoY to Dhs0.25.The Group achieved sales of Dhs6.7 billion in Q1, with UAE sales contributing Dhs5.9 billion. Two projects launched in the UAE in early Q1 2026: The Wilds Residences in Dubai and Baccarat Residences Saadiyat in Abu Dhabi.Sustained demand among international buyers, with UAE sales to overseas and expat resident customers reaching Dhs5.3 billion in Q1, representing 88 per cent of total UAE sales.In April, Aldar launched Yas Park Place. Sales reached over Dhs800 million, with 80 per cent of units released sold in the first week, highlighting sustained confidence in Abu Dhabi’s real estate market.Development revenue backlog rose to Dhs72.1 billion, including Dhs62.2 billion in the UAE, providing clear visibility on revenue recognition over the next three years.Q1 landbank replenishment across the UAE with a Gross Development Value of Dhs61 billion, including strategic land plots in key Abu Dhabi destinations, and the expansion of the Dubai Holding joint venture.Aldar Investment’s adjusted EBITDA rose 18 per cent YoY to Dhs905 million, supported by high occupancy and contributions from strategic acquisitions. Assets under management rose to Dhs52 billion.The income-generating property portfolio remained resilient, supported by long-term leases and growth in the commercial, retail, industrial and logistics segments. Acquisitions of The Link at Masdar City and logistics assets at KEZAD further enhanced the platform.Develop-to-hold pipeline expanded by Dhjs2.8 billion to Dhs20.1 billion through a partnership with the Department of Municipalities and Transport to deliver 9,000 value housing units for rent in Abu Dhabi.Aldar&#039;s total available liquidity stood at Dhs33.2 billion at March-end, comprising Dhs13.9 billion in free and unrestricted cash and Dhs19.4 billion in committed undrawn bank facilities.Aldar closed a $1.0 billion (Dhs3.7 billion) public hybrid issuance in January, followed by a $1.0 billion (Dhs3.7 billion) hybrid issuance to Apollo in February. An Dhs5 billion sustainability-linked committed revolving credit facility was completed in April, attracting strong demand from a broad group of regional and international banks.In April, Aldar distributed a dividend of Dhs0.205 per share for 2025, representing a 10.8 per cent YoY increase and a total payout of Dhs1.61 billion.Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of Aldar, commented, “Abu Dhabi continues to demonstrate strong economic fundamentals, underpinned by policy clarity, long-term vision, and sustained investment across key sectors. The emirate’s resilience, coupled with its enduring global appeal as a destination to live, work, and invest, provides a solid foundation for continued growth.”He added that Aldar’s Q1 performance demonstrates the strength of its business model, which has evolved over time to ensure it is well-positioned to navigate counter-cyclical pressures as well as unforeseen external events.&quot;The Group delivered robust earnings growth while benefiting from the defensive characteristics of a diversified platform. The record development backlog of Dhs72.1 billion, and a high-quality and growing base of recurring income assets now valued at Dhs52 billion, provide strong clarity for future income generation,&quot; he stated.Talal Al Dhiyebi, Group Chief Executive Officer of Aldar, stated, “The UAE economy continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience, supported by decisive leadership and a coordinated policy response, including measures to reinforce market stability and confidence.&quot;He added that during Q1, revenue grew 12 per cent to Dhs8.7 billion and net profit rose 20 per cent year-on-year to Dhs2.3 billion, reflecting disciplined execution and the resilience of our diversified platform.Al Dhiyebi stated, “Within Aldar Development, we continued to convert our record backlog into revenue. Underlying demand fundamentals remain robust, reaffirmed by the very successful recent launch at Yas Park Place. This supports our view that demand remains resilient for the right product, underpinned by a structurally undersupplied market in Abu Dhabi and strong long-term economic fundamentals.&quot;Aldar Investment continues to demonstrate its value as a defensive earnings platform, supported by high occupancy and long-term lease structures. Contributions from recent acquisitions, coupled with firm rental rates, have driven growth, and further expansion will be delivered through a develop-to-hold pipeline, which has grown to reach Dhs20.1 billion.WAM ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.gulftoday.ae/gulftoday/uploads/images/2026/04/28/1074246.webp" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:20:59 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Aldar, net, profit, rises, 20, Dhs2.3, billion</media:keywords>
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<title>When Value Sleeps in Plain Sight: Rethinking what we already own</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/when-value-sleeps-in-plain-sight-rethinking-what-we-already-own</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/when-value-sleeps-in-plain-sight-rethinking-what-we-already-own</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Sometimes, financial needs don’t wait. Whether it’s an urgent expense or a time-sensitive opportunity, the challenge is often access, not availability. In these moments, many overlook what they already own.Gold, long valued for its cultural and emotional significance, also carries practical financial weight. Instead of remaining a passive asset, it can serve as a source of immediate liquidity, without being sold or permanently given up.A Smarter Way to Access FundsThis is where Gold Loan by Finance House comes in. It offers a straightforward way to unlock the value of gold temporarily, turning it into a financial resource when needed. Rather than navigating lengthy approvals or disrupting savings, individuals can rely on what they already have. How It Works, in Simple TermsThe concept itself is straightforward. Gold items are pledged as collateral, and their value is assessed based on weight, purity (karat) and market price. In return, a financing amount is provided, while the gold remains securely held and owned. Once the loan is repaid, either through monthly instalments or a single settlement, the gold is returned.Key Benefits of Gold LoanFor those seeking short-term liquidity, this approach offers both speed and flexibility. With Finance House, individuals can access up to AED 200,000, often with approvals and disbursement completed within 24 hours. Minimal documentation and an additional grace period of up to two months before repayments begin adding further ease during financially demanding periods.A Practical Financial OptionUsed thoughtfully, this approach allows individuals to meet immediate needs without parting with something valuable. It’s a way to stay financially agile, making use of existing assets while keeping long-term plans intact.For more information, visit www.financehouse.ae or call 600 511114 to speak with our customer service team about the detailed terms and conditions. ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.gulftoday.ae/gulftoday/uploads/images/2026/04/28/1074259.webp" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:20:59 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>When, Value, Sleeps, Plain, Sight:, Rethinking, what, already, own</media:keywords>
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<title>UBF approves strategic goals and plans for 2026</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/ubf-approves-strategic-goals-and-plans-for-2026</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/ubf-approves-strategic-goals-and-plans-for-2026</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Gulf Today, Staff ReporterThe UAE Banks Federation (UBF), the sole representative and unified voice of UAE banks, held its Annual General Meeting in the presence of representatives of all its member banks. The AGM approved strategic goals and plans of UBF for 2026, endorsed by UBF Board of Directors during its meeting held prior to the AGM, to further advance the banking sector and reinforce the UAE’s leading position among the world’s best financial and banking centres.Participants at the AGM emphasised the importance of the UAE’s banking and financial sector’s achievements under the direct supervision of the Central Bank of the UAE, as well as the high resilience of the financial and banking industry and its ability to adapt to global changes and challenges, which has further strengthened the UAE’s leading global position.During the meeting, the members approved the previous minutes of the AGM held in April 2025, the audited financial statements for 2025, and the auditors’ report. The meeting stressed the priority of supporting strong fundamentals of the banking industry and enhancing its role in economic development and achieving the UAE’s strategic objectives. It noted that the continued strong performance of UAE banks in 2025, reinforcing the sector’s leadership position both regionally and globally, with total assets of UAE banks reaching Dhs 5.4 trillion. The credit portfolio grew by 17.9% and deposits increased by 16.2%, while maintaining high levels of capital adequacy and liquidity ratios exceeding regulatory requirements and international standards.The UBF’s AGM praised the comprehensive proactive support package approved by the Board of Directors of the Central Bank of the UAE, chaired by His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan (Vice President of the UAE, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of the Presidential Court, and Chairman of the Central Bank),  to enhance resilience and reinforce the stability and strength of the UAE banking sector amid the exceptional circumstances affecting the region and the global economy.Participants also highlighted the efforts made by the Federation in advancing Emiratisation in line with the CBUAE’s plan. UBF’s member banks exceeded the 2025’s targets by 160%, leading to a further increase in Emiratisation across the banking sector. The AGM reaffirmed its commitment to continue these efforts and enhance human capital development programmes, particularly for Emirati talent, in line with the rapid growth of the banking and financial sector and digital transformation.Members of AGM expressed their appreciation for UBF’s initiatives and programmes during 2025, which contributed to strengthening the UAE’s global position in trust indicators, where the UAE ranked first globally. Attendees also highlighted the effectiveness of the Federation’s initiatives in accelerating digital transformation, protecting digital infrastructure, combating fraud, and reinforcing the integrity and soundness of the financial system. The encouraged these initiatives and efforts to expand financial inclusion, support entrepreneurs and SMEs, and promote sustainable finance in alignment with the UAE’s national objectives.The AGM commended UBF’s efforts in strengthening cooperation with strategic partners and its vital role in securing the UAE’s selection to host Sibos 2029, the world’s leading annual banking operations conference organised by the Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication (Swift).The meeting hailed efforts of UBF’s General Secretariat and advisory and technical committees, which bring together prominent banking executives and provide appropriate platforms for knowledge sharing and the development of strategies and initiatives. They emphasised the importance of awareness and training programmes organised by the Federation to keep banking professionals informed of the latest developments, keep pace with industry changes, and provide suitable platforms for exchanging ideas to advance banking and financial sector.Commenting on the AGM,  AbdulAziz Al Ghurair, Chairman of UBF, said: “Building on the strong foundations of the UAE economy, the banking and financial sector continues its growth and development journey, as reflected in the positive growth indicators across all areas as well as the financial soundness standards. The decisions and recommendations of the AGM serve as a roadmap for UBF and member banks to focus on the strategic priorities for 2026, supporting the next phase of growth and development of the banking and financial sector, its positive contribution to socio-economic development, and further strengthen the UAE’s position as a global financial and banking hub.” ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.gulftoday.ae/gulftoday/uploads/images/2026/04/27/1074073.webp" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:20:59 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>UBF, approves, strategic, goals, and, plans, for, 2026</media:keywords>
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<title>Global stocks higher; oil rises on stalled US&#45;Iran peace talks</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/global-stocks-higher-oil-rises-on-stalled-us-iran-peace-talks</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/global-stocks-higher-oil-rises-on-stalled-us-iran-peace-talks</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Oil futures rose on Monday as stalled US-Iran peace talks pointed to further disruption in ‌Middle East energy exports, while global stocks were higher to start a busy week of tech earnings reports and central bank decisions.Benchmark ​Brent crude futures were up just more than 1% at $106.47 a barrel, having traded around a multi-week high of $108.50 a ‌barrel earlier in the session.MSCI’s All-World index ‌inched up around 0.2%, while Europe’s STOXX 600 added 0.53%. In Asia, markets in Tokyo and Seoul rose to trade around record highs, riding a fresh wave of AI-fuelled optimism, while Wall Street futures were broadly steady.“It is an incredibly busy week ahead. Not only are we going to ‌have inevitably another round of geopolitical headlines all over the place, we’ve also got five policy decisions across the G10, we’ve got five of the ‘magnificent 7’ (tech giants) reporting, and I think by market cap it’s about 45% of the S&amp;P giving us results this week,” said Michael Brown, senior research strategist at Pepperstone.While a ceasefire has frozen most fighting in the war triggered by U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran two months ago, markets remain focused on the closed Strait of Hormuz, crossed by barely any ships carrying cargoes of oil and gas.The outlook for peace talks remained uncertain.US President Donald Trump called off a trip by his envoys over the weekend and said Iran should phone ​when it wanted a deal, while Iran’s foreign minister arrived in Russia on Monday to meet longstanding ally President Vladimir ‌Putin.Work has not halted to bridge gaps between the United States and Iran, sources from mediator Pakistan said.Goldman Sachs analysts lifted year-end Brent oil price forecasts to $90 a barrel, from $80, basing the expectation of an end-June return to normal for Gulf exports.“Non-linear price increases are likely if inventories drop to critically low levels, which we have not seen in the last few decades,” they warned in a note.Equity investors tried to look past the oil shock, with renewed attention on the tech sector and the artificial intelligence trend that some view as ​unstoppable.“AI is something ‌that people are very optimistic about and very much considered a winner,” said Mike Seidenberg, senior portfolio manager for Allianz Technology Trust.“It’s ‌the top of the portfolio.” Intel’s forecast last week for second-quarter revenue exceeding Wall Street expectations set off the latest round of buying, pushing the total value of the chipmaker-heavy stock markets in Taiwan and South Korea above that of Germany.Capital expenditure plans will be in focus for firms such ‌as Microsoft, Alphabet, Amazon and ‌Meta Platforms, set to report on Wednesday, while Apple will report a day later.Major central banks are expected to keep policy on hold this week, including the US Federal Reserve - at ‌what will likely be its last meeting with Jerome Powell in the chair.The European Central Bank and Bank of England are also set to keep policy unchanged, but their tone and outlook could challenge market pricing for rate hikes later this year. The first central bank to meet, however, will be the Bank of Japan, which is expected on ​Tuesday to keep its short-term policy rate steady at 0.75%.In currencies, the dollar nudged slightly lower on Monday, with the euro at $1.1740 and the Japanese yen pinned just below the crucial 160 level.China stocks inched higher on Monday, led by technology shares, as strong industrial profit growth and renewed AI ‌enthusiasm outweighed concerns over stalled peace talks between the US and Iran. ​The Shanghai Composite index was up 0.2% at 4,086.34 points ‌after a two-day slide. ‌China’s blue-chip CSI300 index closed flat. Technology stocks led gains, bolstered by renewed excitement about artificial intelligence spending that has lifted chip shares across the ‌region. The Nasdaq-style Star 50 Index rallied 3.8% to a three-month high. The CSI Semiconductor Index surged 6% to a three-month high and the CSI Info Tech Index jumped 3.3%. In Hong Kong, the Hang Seng Index gave up earlier gains to end 0.2% lower at 25,925.65, and the Hang Seng Tech Index was up 0.8%. Profits at China’s ​industrial firms grew at their quickest pace in half a ‌year last month, adding to broader signs of an uneven economic recovery in the first quarter as policymakers brace for the impact of the Middle East war. However, stalled U.S.-Iran peace talks kept investor sentiment in check after US President Donald Trump cancelled a trip to Islamabad by US envoys ​for ‌talks on the weekend. “Equity markets have gradually returned to pricing ‌on fundamental despite recurring external geopolitical headwinds,” analysts at Guotai Haitong Securities said in a note. Thematic rotation has picked up pace and risk appetite is on ‌the mend, ‌with a shift from overseas supply chains to domestic substitution remaining a key theme to ‌watch, they said. Elsewhere, China’s top leadership will hold the April Politburo meeting this week ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.gulftoday.ae/gulftoday/uploads/images/2026/04/27/1074063.webp" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:20:59 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Global, stocks, higher, oil, rises, stalled, US-Iran, peace, talks</media:keywords>
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<title>Ambassador Theon Ali champions new UAE–Caribbean flight route strengthening connectivity</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/ambassador-theon-ali-champions-new-uaecaribbean-flight-route-strengthening-connectivity</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/ambassador-theon-ali-champions-new-uaecaribbean-flight-route-strengthening-connectivity</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Gulf NetworkThe recent announcement of direct UAE–Antigua and Barbuda flights by 2027, alongside Ambassador Theon Ali&#039;s appointment as deputy chairman of the national Working Committee chaired by the chaired by Henry Charles Fernandez, Antigua&#039;s Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment, has been rightly celebrated as a tourism breakthrough. But beneath the headlines lies a quieter, more profound story: one of mutual economic opportunity and bilateral investment.A bridge, not just a routeAmbassador Theon Ali has framed connectivity as the first chapter in a larger strategy that gradually links Antigua and Barbuda to the broader Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) economic space. Direct flights, reducing travel time from over 24 hours to just 13–14 hours, do more than save hours. They make Antigua and Barbuda feel much closer to the UAE, and the UAE feel accessible to the Eastern Caribbean. And proximity, as Gulf capitals have long understood, precedes investment.&quot;Connectivity is the key that turns the lock,&quot; Ambassador Theon Ali said following his appointment. &quot;Once a UAE investor or official can land in Antigua and Barbuda in half a day, we are no longer a distant island. We become a neighbor. That changes everything.&quot;Bilateral investment opportunities take center stageFor UAE investors, the direct corridor opens a genuine frontier. Antigua and Barbuda is actively seeking Gulf capital for marina developments, boutique hotel chains, and luxury residential projects—sectors where Emirati developers have world-class expertise. Joint ventures between UAE construction firms and local Antiguan partners are already being discussed, with the flight route acting as the final confidence booster.Beyond real estate, the technology sector offers fertile ground. Antigua and Barbuda has been quietly building a reputation as a Caribbean hub for blockchain and digital nomad programs. UAE-based fintech companies, many of which have outgrown their home market, see the Eastern Caribbean as a natural expansion zone. Direct flights would allow Emirati executives to establish local offices, train Antiguan staff, and integrate with regional payment systems.Ambassador Theon Ali&#039;s working committee is also exploring a bilateral investment agreement that would protect Emirati assets and streamline business registration for UAE nationals seeking to open companies in Antigua and Barbuda. For Antiguan entrepreneurs, the same agreement would offer reciprocal access to UAE free zones and logistics hubs. What each side brings to the tableThe UAE brings capital, construction expertise, and advanced capabilities in logistics, fintech, and renewable energy. Antigua and Barbuda brings open investment lanes, a stable English-speaking legal system modeled on British common law, and strategic positioning within CARICOM—offering UAE investors a gateway to the wider Caribbean market of nearly 20 million people.For Antiguan and Barbudan business owners, the shift is tangible. UAE partners do not simply write checks; they build, operate, and transfer knowledge. A marina financed by Emirati capital and managed by Antiguan staff creates lasting local employment. A blockchain partnership between a Dubai firm and a St. John&#039;s startup generates intellectual property shared across both jurisdictions.Recognising the UAE&#039;s roleFrom Emirates to Etihad, UAE carriers have opened routes that others dismissed, connecting distant corners of the world through sheer ambition. In many ways, this new Caribbean corridor reflects the very philosophy articulated by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum: that connectivity is the foundation of shared prosperity. For Antigua and Barbuda, the UAE is not merely an origin market. It is a model and a partner.Looking aheadIf the working committee succeeds, Antiguans and Barbudans will see not only more visitors but also more joint ventures, more technology transfers, and a credible bridge to one of the world&#039;s most dynamic investment regions. UAE investors, in turn, will gain a stable, English-speaking, strategically located partner in the Eastern Caribbean. Both sides, in other words, have something real to look forward to.  ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.gulftoday.ae/gulftoday/uploads/images/2026/04/27/1074034.webp" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:20:59 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Ambassador, Theon, Ali, champions, new, UAE–Caribbean, flight, route, strengthening, connectivity</media:keywords>
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<title>Adnoc L&amp;amp;amp;S takes delivery of sixth next&#45;generation LNG carrier</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/adnoc-ls-takes-delivery-of-sixth-next-generation-lng-carrier</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/adnoc-ls-takes-delivery-of-sixth-next-generation-lng-carrier</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ ADNOC Logistics &amp; Services plc has taken delivery of its sixth 175,000 m³ new-build LNG carrier from Jiangnan Shipyard in China.The addition of this vessel further strengthens ADNOC L&amp;S’ role in enabling the reliable movement of energy across global markets.The vessel is part of a $1.2 billion LNG fleet order placed in 2022, supporting the expansion and modernisation of the company’s fleet to meet global market demand with enhanced efficiency.Captain Abdulkareem Al Masabi, CEO of ADNOC L&amp;S, said, “Each new carrier strengthens our ability to reliably deliver energy and essential commodities across international routes, particularly at a time when supply chains are under pressure. We continue to expand our fleet capacity in close alignment with customer demand, seizing commercial opportunities while securing long-term earnings visibility. For our investors this translates into sustainable value creation and shareholder returns.”A single 175,000 m³ LNG shipment contains approximately 1.1 TWh of energy, equivalent to the typical winter gas demand of around 100,000 households in Central Europe. LNG is a key component of supply resilience, supporting system balance during periods of peak demand.ADNOC L&amp;S has committed the majority of the additional LNG capacity under long-term contracts with third-party customers and ADNOC Group companies. Overall, some 60 percent of the revenue of ADNOC L&amp;S and its AW Shipping joint venture is secured through long-term contracts. This prudent commercial strategy ensures that additional capacity translates into top-line revenue growth and an enhanced earnings profile.The expansion of the company’s shipping capacity is aligned with the Group’s overall growth, supporting its downstream operations while reinforcing the UAE’s role in the global energy supply chain.The naming and delivering ceremony of the new carrier, which was named &quot;Al Taweelah&quot;, was held at Jiangnan Shipyard in Shanghai, in the presence of Muna Mussa, Manager of General Services at ADNOC L&amp;S.Equipped with advanced energy-efficient technologies, the new 175,000 m³ LNG vessels are designed to reduce methane emissions by up to 50% compared to older-generation technology. These features reinforce ADNOC L&amp;S&#039; commitment to operational efficiency, emissions reduction, improved cost performance and responsible energy transport.ADNOC L&amp;S continues to expand its global fleet to support customer demand for the reliable movement of energy and essential commodities. In addition to the six LNG carriers already delivered, the company has a strong pipeline of vessels under construction, including seven Very Large Ethane Carriers (VLECs) and four Very Large Ammonia Carriers (VLACs) from a $1.9 billion order placed in 2024 by AW Shipping, a joint venture with Wanhua Chemical Group.In the same year, ADNOC L&amp;S also ordered eight LNG carriers for approximately $2.5 billion from Samsung Heavy Industries and Hanwha Ocean, reinforcing its international growth trajectory.WAM ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.gulftoday.ae/gulftoday/uploads/images/2026/04/27/1074032.webp" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:20:59 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Adnoc, L&amp;ampS, takes, delivery, sixth, next-generation, LNG, carrier</media:keywords>
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<title>Emirates completes first installation of &amp;amp;#039;Starlink&amp;amp;#039; Wi&#45;Fi system on its Airbus A380 Aircraft</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/emirates-completes-first-installation-of-starlink-wi-fi-system-on-its-airbus-a380-aircraft</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/emirates-completes-first-installation-of-starlink-wi-fi-system-on-its-airbus-a380-aircraft</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Emirates has completed the first installation of next-generation Starlink Wi-Fi on its Airbus A380 aircraft, marking a significant leap in inflight connectivity.The A380, among the first commercial aircraft to offer onboard internet, previously operated with systems delivering less than 1 Mbps. The new setup, featuring three Starlink antennas per aircraft, boosts connectivity capacity up to a thousand-fold, offering a “better than at home” experience at 40,000 feet.The first upgraded aircraft returned to Dubai after installation and certification in Newquay, United Kingdom. More A380s are scheduled for accelerated upgrades throughout 2026.The service will be complimentary for all passengers across all cabins, with easy access. Future enhancements include live TV streaming via Starlink, initially on personal devices and later on seatback screens.Designed for the A380’s double-decker structure and high passenger capacity, the system delivers more than 2 Gbps of total bandwidth. Compared to the Boeing 777, the A380 includes additional wireless access points and a third antenna to support higher demand.Starlink installations will begin at Emirates Engineering facilities in Dubai to speed up fleet-wide deployment. So far, 25 Boeing 777-300ER aircraft are equipped with the system, with more than 650,000 passengers already experiencing the service.The move builds on Emirates’ broader investment in enhancing passenger experience, including its major retrofit programme. To date, 93 aircraft have been refurbished with upgraded cabins, interiors, and inflight systems offering more than 6,500 entertainment channels.In 2025, Emirates also opened a US$8 million Centre of Hospitality Excellence to train 25,000 cabin crew, further supporting service quality across its operations.WAM ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.gulftoday.ae/gulftoday/uploads/images/2026/04/27/1074027.webp" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:20:59 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Emirates, completes, first, installation, &amp;039Starlink&amp;039, Wi-Fi, system, its, Airbus, A380, Aircraft</media:keywords>
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<title>73 villas in Dubai’s Saih Shuaib sold for Dhs560 million</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/73-villas-in-dubais-saih-shuaib-sold-for-dhs560-million</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/73-villas-in-dubais-saih-shuaib-sold-for-dhs560-million</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Dubai’s real estate market saw significant sales at the start of the week, with 73 villas sold in Saih Shuaib area for over Dhs560 million.According to Dubai Land Department’s Dubai REST app, the villas, both sold and resold, are located in Saih Shuaib 1 area within the Lunaya project. Some 31 villas covering an area of 80,400 square feet were sold for Dhs206.3 million at an average price of Dhs82,300 per square foot.The same project saw the resale of 42 villas spanning 159,400 square feet for nearly Dhs354 million at an average price of Dhs101,600 per square foot.In the land sector, the Business Bay area witnessed the resale of a plot of land covering an area of 34,400 square feet for Dhs310 million at an average price of Dhs9,013 per square foot.As far aDus land gift deals are concerned, Dubai Islands recorded three commercial gift land deals covering an area of 706,500 square feet for Dhs734.5 million at an average price of Dhs3,054 per square foot.The World Islands also witnessed a commercial gift land transaction spanning 3 million square feet for Dhs209.2 million at an average price of Dhs70 per square foot.At the start of trading on Monday, the emirate’s sales amounted to Dhs2.16 billion, resulting from 556 transactions, while mortgages amounted to Dhs525.6 million, resulting from 307 transactions and gifts amounted to Dhs1.04 billion resulting from 17 transactions. ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.gulftoday.ae/gulftoday/uploads/images/2026/04/27/1074024.webp" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:20:59 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>villas, Dubai’s, Saih, Shuaib, sold, for, Dhs560, million</media:keywords>
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<title>Luxury apartment in Dubai&amp;amp;#039;s Jumeirah 2 sold for Dhs83 million</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/luxury-apartment-in-dubais-jumeirah-2-sold-for-dhs83-million</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/luxury-apartment-in-dubais-jumeirah-2-sold-for-dhs83-million</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Dubai’s real estate market saw the sale of a luxury residential unit in Jumeirah 2 for Dhs83.2 million at the start of trading on Wednesday.According to Dubai Land Department’s Dubai REST app, the luxury apartment is located in the Aman Residences project and spans 5,944 square feet with an average price of Dhs14,000 per square foot.Meanwhile, a plot of land in Jumeirah Beach Residence measuring 47,190 square feet was mortgaged for Dhs210 million with an average price of Dhs4,450 per square foot. ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.gulftoday.ae/gulftoday/uploads/images/2026/04/29/1074512.webp" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:20:58 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Luxury, apartment, Dubai&amp;039s, Jumeirah, sold, for, Dhs83, million</media:keywords>
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<title>RAK posts 15.5% growth in economic licence capital in Q1</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/rak-posts-155-growth-in-economic-licence-capital-in-q1</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/rak-posts-155-growth-in-economic-licence-capital-in-q1</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Ras Al Khaimah recorded a 15.5 per cent increase in the total capital of economic licences in the first quarter of 2026, reaching around Dhs11.497 billion, reflecting continued investor confidence and a strong business environment.Commercial licences accounted for the largest share at 62.3 per cent, underscoring robust business activity and expansion in the emirate. Industrial licences followed at 19.3 per cent, supported by growth in productive sectors, while professional licences made up 18.2 per cent, pointing to expansion in services. Agricultural licences recorded the smallest share.This balanced growth is the result of ongoing efforts by authorities to enhance the business ecosystem through facilitation packages, digital services, faster licensing procedures and incentive programmes aimed at supporting entrepreneurs and investors.Al Nakheel ranked as the most attractive area for new businesses in the first quarter, supported by its strategic location and infrastructure, followed by Al Hamra Island and Al Qusaidat, highlighting expanding investment opportunities across the emirate.The performance reflects sustained economic momentum in Ras Al Khaimah, driven by efforts to diversify income sources, improve the investment climate and attract high-quality projects to boost competitiveness regionally and globally.WAM ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.gulftoday.ae/gulftoday/uploads/images/2026/04/28/1074260.webp" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:20:58 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>RAK, posts, 15.5, growth, economic, licence, capital</media:keywords>
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<title>Abu Dhabi’s non&#45;oil foreign trade grows 36% in 2025</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/abu-dhabis-non-oil-foreign-trade-grows-36-in-2025</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/abu-dhabis-non-oil-foreign-trade-grows-36-in-2025</guid>
<description><![CDATA[  Statistics released by Abu Dhabi Customs reveal a significant rise in the emirate’s non-oil foreign trade in 2025, increasing by 36 percent to exceed AED415.4 billion, compared with approximately Dhs306 billion in 2024.This growth reflects Abu Dhabi’s leading position as one of the world’s fastest-growing economies in external trade, driven by expanding commercial activity and strengthened economic partnerships with global markets. Non-oil exports recorded a notable increase of 63 percent in 2025, reaching Dhs175.4 billion, up from Dhs107.8 billion in 2024. Imports rose by 22 percent to Dhs170.4 billion in 2025, compared with Dhs140.2 billion in 2024. Re-exports also saw strong growth, increasing by 20 percent to Dhs70 billion in 2025, up from Dhs58 billion in 2024. The results demonstrate Abu Dhabi’s economic resilience and the continued progress of economic diversification. They also highlight the efficiency of the emirate’s infrastructure in supporting trade and business, further strengthening its status as a regional and global hub for trade and logistics.“Abu Dhabi’s non-oil foreign trade performance in 2025 reflects a system built for efficiency, scale, and continuity. This growth is driven by deliberate alignment across policy, infrastructure, and market access, enabling trade flows to move with speed and reliability,&quot; said Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED).He added that the strength of exports, alongside sustained growth in imports and re-exports, signals deeper integration into global trade flows and a more competitive position across key corridors. Amid an increasingly complex global environment, Abu Dhabi continues to ensure fluid trade movement, reduce friction across supply chains, and operate with consistency.&quot;Our focus remains on expanding partnerships, advancing logistics capabilities, and enabling more efficient cross-border trade, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s role as a trusted hub within the global trading system,&quot; Al Zaabi stated.Rashed Lahej Al Mansoori, Director-General of Abu Dhabi Customs, said, “These results underscore the success of Abu Dhabi’s policies in building a competitive economic model grounded in diversification, sustainability, and openness, aligned with the emirate’s strategic vision. This accelerated growth reflects the strength of public–private sector collaboration and highlights the role of the customs ecosystem as a strategic enabler of the business environment.”He added that Abu Dhabi Customs continues to advance its customs operations in line with global best practice by adopting advanced digital solutions and smart systems, while strengthening risk management and enhancing operational efficiency.These efforts support smoother trade flows, faster movement of goods across ports, and further reinforce Abu Dhabi’s position as a global hub for trade and investment.Reflecting the success of Abu Dhabi Customs’ efforts to further strengthen the resilience of the trade ecosystem by enhancing the smooth movement of goods through different modes of shipping, the non-oil trade by air represented 33.5 percent of the total, land 35 percent, and sea 31.5 percent.WAM ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:20:58 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Abu, Dhabi’s, non-oil, foreign, trade, grows, 36, 2025</media:keywords>
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<title>UAE plans to produce 5 million barrels of oil per day after OPEC, OPEC+ exit, says minister</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/uae-plans-to-produce-5-million-barrels-of-oil-per-day-after-opec-opec-exit-says-minister</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/uae-plans-to-produce-5-million-barrels-of-oil-per-day-after-opec-opec-exit-says-minister</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Suhail Al Mazrouei, UAE Minister of Energy and Infrastructure said that UAE plans to produce 5 million barrels of oil per day by 2027.The ministry highlighted that the UAE&#039;s decision to withdraw from OPEC and the OPEC+ alliance, following a thorough review of policies in the oil and gas sector and the pivotal role our national companies play today, both domestically and internationally, through investments across all supply chains, necessitates that we, as a forward-looking nation in the age of artificial intelligence and rapid decision-making, remain independent of any group.Al Mazrouei, speaking to Al Etihad News Centre, said, “We respect OPEC and have worked with them for over fifty years in ways that benefit the market.Al Mazrouei added, “This is a new phase for us, requiring swift decision-making. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has led to a significant depletion of strategic reserves in many countries worldwide, necessitating increased investment and production to bridge the gap. This also requires us to be prepared. The UAE has a previously announced, clear, and transparent plan to produce 5 million barrels per day by 2027.“We are working to implement this plan.“The UAE will be a responsible producer, capable of meeting global needs and contributing effectively with all producers to filling the gap created by the Strait&#039;s closure. The UAE wishes all producers, whether in OPEC or OPEC+, success in their endeavors, and we hope, God willing, to be an active and contributing member of the global energy security community.”The UAE’s decision to leave OPEC will sharply diminish the 65-year-old producer group&#039;s influence over the oil market, opening the door to an all-out price war once Gulf producers rush to regain market share when the Iran war is over.The surprise move comes at a time of unprecedented turmoil in energy markets as Gulf oil and gas exports have remained largely paralysed for two months due to the closure ‌of the Strait of Hormuz, which has muted OPEC&#039;s traditional ability to manage the oil market during times of distress.Al-Mazrouei told said the decision to leave the Organization ​of the Petroleum Exporting Countries was driven ⁠by the need to meet rising global energy demand. ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:20:58 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>UAE, plans, produce, million, barrels, oil, per, day, after, OPEC, OPEC, exit, says, minister</media:keywords>
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<title>Etihad Airways launches codeshare with Air Cambodia, opening gateway to Angkor Wat</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/etihad-airways-launches-codeshare-with-air-cambodia-opening-gateway-to-angkor-wat</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/etihad-airways-launches-codeshare-with-air-cambodia-opening-gateway-to-angkor-wat</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Etihad Airways and Air Cambodia have launched a codeshare partnership today, giving Etihad customers easier access to Cambodia&#039;s iconic Angkor Wat temple complex and one of Southeast Asia&#039;s most captivating destinations.Through the partnership, Etihad customers can book flights from across its network to Siem Reap via Phnom Penh on a single ticket, with baggage checked through to their final destination. Beyond the ancient temples of Angkor Wat, the city offers vibrant night markets, traditional Khmer cuisine, and rich cultural experiences that draw visitors from across the globe. Air Cambodia passengers will also be able to book Etihad&#039;s service between Phnom Penh and Abu Dhabi.Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer at Etihad Airways, said, “Cambodia is an important and growing market within our network, with increasing demand for travel to and from the destination. This partnership with Air Cambodia enables us to extend that reach, providing our guests with seamless access between Siem Reap and the wider region through a single booking via Abu Dhabi.”Eng Molina, Chief Commercial Officer at Air Cambodia, said, &quot;This partnership with Etihad strengthens connections between Southeast Asia and the Middle East. Our passengers gain direct access to Abu Dhabi, an important hub for business, trade, and tourism, while Etihad&#039;s customers can explore Cambodia&#039;s rich cultural heritage. We look forward to welcoming more visitors to discover the wonders of Angkor Wat and beyond.&quot;Additionally, Etihad guests can access Air Cambodia&#039;s Vietnam network through the airlines&#039; interline partnership, opening up further travel options across Southeast Asia, including Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang and Phu Quoc.Etihad launched flights to Phnom Penh in October 2025 between Abu Dhabi and the Cambodian capital.WAM ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.gulftoday.ae/gulftoday/uploads/images/2026/04/28/1074284.webp" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:20:58 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Etihad, Airways, launches, codeshare, with, Air, Cambodia, opening, gateway, Angkor, Wat</media:keywords>
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<title>Nasdaq Dubai welcomes listing of Dhs1.1 billion Islamic Treasury Sukuk</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/nasdaq-dubai-welcomes-listing-of-dhs11-billion-islamic-treasury-sukuk</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/nasdaq-dubai-welcomes-listing-of-dhs11-billion-islamic-treasury-sukuk</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Mohamed Bin Hadi Al Hussaini, Minister of State for Financial Affairs, rang the market-opening bell at Nasdaq Dubai to mark the listing of additional UAE dirham-denominated Islamic Treasury Sukuk issued by the Ministry of Finance, with a total value of Dhs1.1 billion.During the ceremony, he was joined by Younis Haji AlKhoori, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Finance; Abdul Wahed Al Fahim, Chairman of Nasdaq Dubai; and Hamed Ali, Chief Executive Officer of Nasdaq Dubai and Dubai Financial Market (DFM), in the presence of senior officials from both organisations.The additional amounts represent tap issuances of two existing series under the UAE Federal Government’s Islamic Treasury Sukuk (T-Sukuk) Programme.This comprised a Dhs550 million tap of the 3.49% Sukuk due October 2027, increasing its total outstanding to Dhs 2.2 billion, alongside a Dhs550 million tap of the 3.779% Sukuk due February 2033, which now stands at Dhs1.1 billion.Mohamed bin Hadi Al Hussaini said that the listing of additional UAE dirham-denominated Islamic Treasury Sukuk issuances on Nasdaq Dubai reaffirms the Ministry of Finance’s commitment to supporting the UAE Government’s Islamic Treasury Sukuk Programme and strengthening its role within an efficient and flexible national financial system.Al Hussaini added that the move will further bolster the ministry’s approach to developing local currency government debt instruments, thereby enhancing the dirham yield curve, broadening the investor base, and supporting the development of a deeper and more diversified fixed-income market.He noted that the increases in the existing issuances reflect the UAE’s strong credit position and the high level of confidence in its financial system, as well as its ability to provide reliable government instruments that promote market stability and liquidity.He added that the programme continues to strengthen the UAE’s financial infrastructure in line with best practices. He reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to boosting the efficiency of government issuance management and reinforcing the UAE’s position as a leading financial hub.For his part, Abdul Wahed Al Fahim said, “The UAE is committed to further promoting its position as a leading hub for the development of capital markets. The strong demand for the Islamic Treasury Sukuk programme reflects the confidence investors place in the resilience of the country’s economy and the sustainability of its long-term development vision. The programme also contributes to enhancing the dirham-denominated yield curve and reinforces the UAE’s standing as a trusted and attractive destination for investors from around the world.”Meanwhile, Hamed Ali said, “The UAE Federal Government’s latest Islamic Treasury Sukuk issuance highlights the strength of the country’s Islamic finance ecosystem and its strategic role in global capital markets. As investor demand for such instruments continues to grow, Nasdaq Dubai remains well positioned to facilitate efficient market access and support the continued development of capital markets in the region.”With these tap issuances, the total value of outstanding Sukuk currently listed by the UAE Federal Government on Nasdaq Dubai has reached $7.5 billion, highlighting the sustained growth of the programme. The total value of outstanding Sukuk listed on Nasdaq Dubai now stands at $99.4 billion, reinforcing the exchange’s position as one of the world’s leading international hubs for Islamic finance.The tap issuances form part of the UAE Islamic Treasury Sukuk Programme, which continues to advance the development of the dirham-denominated yield curve, strengthen the domestic fixed income landscape, and expand access to Sharia-compliant investment instruments with high credit ratings for regional and international investors.The listing further underlines the growing role of UAE dirham-denominated Islamic Treasury Sukuk within domestic capital markets, contributing to the development of the government debt market and enhancing the visibility of UAE sovereign issuances on Nasdaq Dubai, in line with the Ministry of Finance’s objectives to establish an advanced and sustainable financial system. WAM ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:20:58 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Nasdaq, Dubai, welcomes, listing, Dhs1.1, billion, Islamic, Treasury, Sukuk</media:keywords>
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<title>UAE announces decision to exit Opec &amp;amp;amp; Opec+</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/uae-announces-decision-to-exit-opec-opec</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/uae-announces-decision-to-exit-opec-opec</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ The United Arab Emirates on Tuesday announced its decision to exit the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (Opec and Opec+), effective 1 May 2026. This decision reflects the UAE’s long-term strategic and economic vision and evolving energy profile, including accelerated investment in domestic energy production, and reinforces its commitment to a responsible, reliable, and forward-looking role in global energy markets. This decision follows a comprehensive review of the UAE’s production policy and its current and future capacity and is based on our national interest and our commitment to contributing effectively to meeting the market’s pressing needs. Sovereign Responsibility in a New Energy Age While near-term volatility, including disruptions in the Arabian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz, continues to affect supply dynamics, underlying trends point to sustained growth in global energy demand over the medium to long term. A stable global energy system depends on flexible, reliable, and affordable supply. The UAE has invested to meet evolving demand efficiently and responsibly, prioritising stability, affordability, and sustainability. This decision follows decades of constructive cooperation. The UAE joined OPEC in 1967 through the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and continued its membership following the formation of the United Arab Emirates in 1971. Throughout this period, the UAE has played an active role in supporting global oil market stability and strengthening dialogue among producing nations. The decision reflects a policy-driven evolution in the UAE’s approach, enhancing flexibility to respond to market dynamics while continuing to contribute to stability in a measured and responsible manner. A Reliable and Responsible Energy Partner The UAE is a trusted producer of some of the world’s most cost-competitive and lower-carbon barrels, which will play an important role in supporting global growth and emissions reduction. Following its exit, the UAE will continue to act responsibly, bringing additional production to market in a gradual and measured manner, aligned with demand and market conditions. With a large and competitive resource base, the UAE will continue working with partners to develop resources, supporting economic growth and diversification. This decision does not alter the UAE’s commitment to global market stability or its approach based on cooperation with producers and consumers. Rather, it enhances the UAE’s ability to respond to evolving market needs. We reaffirm our appreciation for the efforts of both OPEC and the OPEC+ alliance and wish them success. During our time in the organisation, we made significant contributions and even greater sacrifices for the benefit of all. However, the time has come to focus our efforts on what our national interest dictates and our commitment to our investors, customers, partners and global energy markets. This is what we will focus on going forward. A Balanced and Forward-Looking Approach The UAE reaffirmed that its production policies will be guided by responsibility and market stability, taking into account global supply and demand. It will continue investing across the energy value chain, including oil, gas, renewables, and low-carbon solutions, to support resilience and long-term energy system transformation. The UAE values more than five decades of cooperation with partners and will continue active engagement in support of stable global energy markets. Ole Hansen, Head of Commodity Strategy, Saxo Bank told Gulf Today that the UAE has decided to leave Opec, effective May 1, as it pursues a strategic realignment in the wake of the Iran war.In the short- to medium term, Hansen said the market should be able to absorb additional UAE barrels given depleted global inventories and the need to rebuild reserves. Over time, however, the departure raises a broader strategic question: if other producers begin prioritising market share over quota discipline, Opec’s ability to manage orderly markets through coordinated supply adjustments may increasingly be called into question.Madhur Kakkar, Founder &amp; CEO, Elevate Financial Services, said that the UAE’s decision marking a significant shift in global oil dynamics amid high prices and supply disruptions linked to the US-Iran war and tensions in the Strait of Hormuz.Kakkar said that the decision reflects alignment with the UAE’s long-term strategic vision, continued development of its energy sector, and investments aimed at boosting domestic production capacity. The move also reflects national interests amid heightened geopolitical volatility, alongside quota constraints that have limited output. ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:20:58 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>UAE, announces, decision, exit, Opec, &amp;amp, Opec</media:keywords>
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<title>Al Fahim Motors Partners with Li Auto Inc. to launch premium energy vehicles in UAE</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/al-fahim-motors-partners-with-li-auto-inc-to-launch-premium-energy-vehicles-in-uae</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/al-fahim-motors-partners-with-li-auto-inc-to-launch-premium-energy-vehicles-in-uae</guid>
<description><![CDATA[  Al Fahim Motors, a member of Al Fahim Group, officially signed a strategic partnership agreement with Li Auto Inc. during a ceremony held on 25 April 2026 at Li Auto’s headquarters in Beijing, China, marking a significant milestone in the advancement of sustainable mobility solutions in the United Arab Emirates.The agreement formalizes the collaboration to introduce Li Auto’s innovative Extended Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) L Series models to the UAE market. Through this partnership, Al Fahim Motors will bring Li Auto’s premium family-focused vehicles to customers in the UAE, combining advanced range-extending technology, spacious interiors, and exceptional driving comfort tailored to the evolving needs of modern families.Ahmed Abdul Jalil Al Fahim, Chairman of Al Fahim Group, said:“We are proud to bring Li Auto to the UAE. This partnership represents more than the introduction of a new automotive brand; it is a strategic step toward redefining mobility in the UAE, in line with UAE Vision 2031 and the UAE Net Zero 2050 strategic initiative. This cooperation aligns seamlessly with our long-term strategy to lead the future of sustainable mobility in the region. We look forward to delivering exceptional products and services through our extensive, well-established network.”Representing Li Auto, Mr. Zuomin Wu, Head of International Business, added:“The UAE is one of the leading markets for innovation and growth in the Middle East. We are delighted to join forces with Al Fahim Motors to deliver superior products and services that exceed local expectations. The premium, family-oriented positioning and extended range technology of the L Series perfectly match the needs of Middle Eastern customers.”This partnership reinforces Al Fahim Motors’ commitment to shaping the future of mobility by introducing globally recognized automotive brands and advanced technologies that align with the UAE’s sustainability ambitions and smart mobility vision. ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:20:58 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Fahim, Motors, Partners, with, Auto, Inc., launch, premium, energy, vehicles, UAE</media:keywords>
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<title>UAE announces fuel prices for May</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/uae-announces-fuel-prices-for-may</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/uae-announces-fuel-prices-for-may</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ The UAE Fuel Price Committee has announced fuel prices for May 2026, maintaining the diesel price in a step aimed at supporting the continuity of vital sectors, particularly logistics and supply chains, contributing to market balance and price stability. Prices of petrol products saw a limited adjustment in line with global market changes within the UAE’s approved monthly pricing mechanism, which is based on a flexible and transparent system that keeps pace with international market fluctuations, supports sustainability, and reflects energy price changes in a balanced manner, as follows: Diesel: Dhs4.69 per litre. Super “98”: Dhs3.66 per litre. Special “95”: Dhs3.55 per litre. E-Plus “91”: Dhs3.48 per litre. Maintaining the diesel price reflects the UAE’s commitment to supporting a stable business environment and enhancing the smooth flow of operations across various sectors, especially those linked to transport and supply chains, reinforcing the country’s position as a regional and global hub for trade and logistics services. The UAE continues to develop an integrated system for managing the energy sector, based on flexibility and transparency, ensuring efficient market supply and maintaining sustainable economic balance amid rapid global changes. WAM ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:20:57 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>UAE, announces, fuel, prices, for, May</media:keywords>
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<title>Banks in UAE suspend banking services via WhatsApp</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/banks-in-uae-suspend-banking-services-via-whatsapp</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/banks-in-uae-suspend-banking-services-via-whatsapp</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Banks in the UAE have announced they will no longer provide banking services through WhatsApp, following directives issued by the Central Bank of the UAE.This move is part of broader efforts to strengthen customer data protection measures.In communications to their customers, the banks confirmed that all services previously accessible via the messaging platform will be fully discontinued.The decision aims to direct all banking activities exclusively to approved platforms, such as mobile banking apps, official websites, and call centers.This approach ensures higher levels of security and minimises the risk of fraud or unauthorized use of customer data.Banks reassured customers that the availability of services will not be impacted.All services will remain accessible through secure and trusted channels, with ongoing enhancements designed to improve digital user experiences and bolster security features.Furthermore, the banks reiterated their dedication to advancing official digital platforms. They emphasised their commitment to delivering a safer, more seamless banking experience while continually innovating to align with the fast-paced digital transformation within the UAE&#039;s financial sector. ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:20:57 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Banks, UAE, suspend, banking, services, via, WhatsApp</media:keywords>
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<title>Dubai Chamber discusses AI, alternative shipping routes with nearly 200 representatives of firms</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/dubai-chamber-discusses-ai-alternative-shipping-routes-with-nearly-200-representatives-of-firms</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/dubai-chamber-discusses-ai-alternative-shipping-routes-with-nearly-200-representatives-of-firms</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Dubai Chamber of Commerce, one of the three chambers operating under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers, recently organised an open discussion in collaboration with FedEx, the world’s largest express transportation company. The session focused on the readiness of supply chains in Dubai amid current global developments and ways to enhance the resilience of logistics services across all sectors.The discussion explored how companies can proactively strengthen logistics resilience, which has emerged as a key priority across all sectors. It highlighted the role of artificial intelligence, alternative shipping routes, flexible operating models, and multimodal logistics services in supporting business continuity and improving preparedness for disruptions affecting global supply chains.The meeting brought together 196 representatives of companies operating in Dubai and featured an interactive discussion on the logistics frameworks best suited to the current period. Participants also explored ways to help companies adapt to disruptions in global shipping routes caused by current developments through transport services offering flexibility, speed, and efficiency, helping to support trade flows worldwide.Maha Al Gargawi, Vice President of Business Advocacy at Dubai Chambers, said: “Close cooperation between the public and private sectors remains a key pillar of Dubai’s business environment. Supported by advanced logistics infrastructure, the emirate is continuing to strengthen its position as a leading global hub for business and trade, with the resilience and agility to navigate evolving global conditions.”Sammy Bousaba, Managing Director Sales at FedEx Middle East, Indian Continent and Africa, commented: “Global trade is more dynamic and less predictable than ever. The advantage today lies in intelligent, connected logistics networks that provide real-time visibility and enable faster, more confident decisions. At FedEx, we’re bringing together our integrated air and ground network with digital capabilities to help businesses anticipate change and keep supply chains moving.”Participants examined the key lessons emerging from current global challenges, as well as ways to develop proactive and effective policies to address new international developments. The discussion also explored the main trends expected to shape the future of the global logistics sector in the aftermath of current events.Attendees also gained insight into how FedEx enables businesses to navigate evolving market conditions through its extensive global network, seamless cross-border solutions, and technology-driven capabilities that enhance predictability, improve control, and support faster, more informed decision-making.The session reflects Dubai Chamber of Commerce’s continued commitment to empowering the private sector and enhancing its competitiveness. As a catalyst for strategic partnerships, the chamber works to foster effective channels for direct dialogue across the business community, helping to align efforts and further reinforce Dubai’s position as a leading global hub for trade and investment. ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:20:57 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Dubai, Chamber, discusses, AI, alternative, shipping, routes, with, nearly, 200, representatives, firms</media:keywords>
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<title>DIFC reports strong client growth during the first quarter of this year</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/difc-reports-strong-client-growth-during-the-first-quarter-of-this-year</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/difc-reports-strong-client-growth-during-the-first-quarter-of-this-year</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), the leading global financial centre in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA) region, today announced strong momentum during the first three months of 2026, attracting new global, regional and local clients.775 new companies established their regional presence in DIFC during the first three months of 2026, reflecting the Centre’s prominence for finance, business, and innovation. This represents a 62% increase on the same period in 2025, when 478 companies set up in the Centre. Performance was particularly strong in March when compared to the prior year, with 258 companies establishing in March 2026, up from 162 in March 2025, reflecting 59% year-on-year growth.The continued influx of firms reflects a broader shift in global financial flows, as institutions and investors reaffirm their commitment to Dubai and DIFC despite ongoing global uncertainty. In this context, Dubai has emerged as a preferred global hub, reinforcing momentum towards its ambition to rank among the world’s top four financial centres.Sheikh Maktoum Bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Finance and President of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), stated, “Dubai continues to consolidate a unique economic model rooted in a proactive and agile response to regional and global shifts. This approach is inspired by the strategic vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, centred on foresight, economic readiness and transformation of challenges into opportunities for growth. This approach has solidified Dubai’s position as a trusted global business and finance hub, and a competitive investment ecosystem conducive to achieving sustainable growth under all circumstances.”Sheikh Maktoum added, “DIFC’s strong performance during the first quarter of 2026 reflects the rising international confidence in Dubai’s economic ecosystem, its advanced regulatory and legislative frameworks and financial infrastructure. These pillars reinforce Dubai’s ability to attract quality investments and underscore its competitiveness as a prime destination for global economic opportunities.”He reaffirmed the ongoing commitment to advancing DIFC’s standing and its innovation-driven systems, in line with the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33) goal of positioning Dubai among the top four global financial hubs by 2033.Among the new companies establishing in DIFC and further broadening the range of firms operating across all sectors in the DIFC ecosystem were Arrowpoint Investment Partners (AIP Management), Braemar Securities, Blue Mountain Capacity, Janus Henderson Investors, Keystone Financial Solutions, National Bank of Canada, Photon Dance, Prospera Wealth Management, RV Capital Management and Ryan Specialty (DIFC) Limited.Essa Kazim, Governor of DIFC, said, “Dubai’s standing as a globally top ten ranked financial centre, particularly during a period of global uncertainty, reflects the strength of the Emirate’s vision and the central role DIFC continues to play in delivering it. DIFC’s contribution to enhancing investor confidence, strengthening legal and regulatory transparency, and attracting global capital remains instrumental in reinforcing Dubai’s position as a leading financial hub. This sustained progress supports the ambitions of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), further cementing Dubai’s role as a key pillar in the global economic landscape.”Arif Amiri, Chief Executive Officer of DIFC Authority, said,“Our strong start to 2026 is driven by the continued influx of new clients choosing DIFC as their base in the region. This growth not only reflects the strength of our platform, but also enhances our reputation as the region’s leading financial centre. As more global, regional, local institutions and families join our ecosystem, they contribute to a dynamic, future-ready environment that strengthens Dubai’s position as a gateway to vast opportunities across the Middle East, Africa and South Asia.”Reflecting sustained demand from regulated financial institutions, DIFC recorded a 21% increase in financial services authorisations during the first quarter of 2026 compared to the same period last year. This growth underscores DIFC’s appeal as the preferred base for establishing regional headquarters and serving markets across the MEASA region.Confidence among families continues to strengthen, with 158 foundations registered in DIFC during the first quarter of 2026—more than double the number recorded in the same period last year, representing 108% growth. Momentum accelerated further in March, with 60 foundations registered, marking a 186% increase year-on-year. This growth highlights DIFC’s role as a trusted jurisdiction for wealth governance, succession planning, and the long-term management of intergenerational assets.Demonstrating its ability to deliver at pace, DIFC completed DIFC ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.gulftoday.ae/gulftoday/uploads/images/2026/04/29/1074693.webp" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:20:57 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>DIFC, reports, strong, client, growth, during, the, first, quarter, this, year</media:keywords>
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<title>RAK Ruler witnesses signing of MoUs with Chinese financial institutions</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/rak-ruler-witnesses-signing-of-mous-with-chinese-financial-institutions</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/rak-ruler-witnesses-signing-of-mous-with-chinese-financial-institutions</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ His Highness Sheikh Saud Bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, witnessed the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) on Wednesday between the Government of Ras Al Khaimah and two leading Chinese financial institutions: the Bank of China and the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC), to strengthen economic ties and advance strategic cooperation between Ras Al Khaimah and China.The agreements establish comprehensive frameworks for collaboration across a variety of sectors that support Ras Al Khaimah’s economic diversification and sustainable growth agenda. Both agreements reflect a shared commitment to elevating bilateral cooperation into long-term strategic partnerships underpinned by mutual trust, shared interests and a forward-looking vision for high-quality development.Sheikh Saud said of the signings: “These agreements reflect Ras Al Khaimah’s steadfast commitment to deepening its economic partnerships with key global markets and advancing a vision of sustainable, diversified growth. Our collaboration with leading Chinese institutions underscores the strength of our shared ambitions to drive innovation, facilitate investment and strengthen the bonds between our peoples.By building lasting bridges of cooperation with China, we continue to position Ras Al Khaimah as a gateway for global enterprise and a partner of choice for long-term, mutually beneficial sustainable development.”The agreements were signed during a visit by Ou Boqian, Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, and her accompanying delegation.Both MoUs were signed on behalf of the Office of the Ruler by Lody Embrechts, Senior Advisor, International Relations, with the Bank of China agreement signed by Pan Xinyuan, General Manager, Bank of China (Dubai) Branch, and the ICBC agreement signed by Liu Hua, General Manager, Industrial and Commercial Bank of China Limited, Dubai (DIFC) Branch.Under the agreement with Bank of China (Dubai) Branch, the parties will focus on advancing value-adding investment in priority sectors including manufacturing, logistics, ports and renewable energy, while strengthening institutional connectivity and people-to-people exchange.The partnership will leverage Bank of China’s global network and cross-border expertise to facilitate capital flows, support Chinese enterprises establishing operations in Ras Al Khaimah and promote deeper economic engagement between the Emirate and China.The MoU with ICBC Dubai Branch sets out a framework to promote bilateral trade and investment flows, enhance financial cooperation and develop financing solutions to support Ras Al Khaimah’s long-term growth objectives. The partnership will facilitate engagement between government entities, investment promotion agencies and private sector stakeholders, while supporting the development of joint ventures and strategic partnerships with leading Chinese companies.ICBC will also explore opportunities to provide financing for key infrastructure and industrial projects aligned with the Emirate’s economic priorities, with both parties agreeing to engage in investment promotion activities, including forums, roadshows and high-level delegations.Together, the MoUs are expected to strengthen Ras Al Khaimah’s position as a competitive destination for Chinese investment and deepen institutional connections across both economies.The signings follow a separate agreement signed by the International Relations Department, which acts as an intermediary between Ras Al Khaimah entities and Chinese organizations, and the Sino-International Entrepreneurs Federation (SIEF) during the UAE-China Business Promotion Conference in Beijing on April 13.The partnership is designed to expand the Emirate’s outreach across Greater China, enhancing its visibility among policymakers, investors and business leaders, while supporting cross-border investment, tourism and cultural exchange.Separately, RAKBANK reaffirmed its long-standing commitment to the UAE’s SME sector, announcing a series of measures aimed at strengthening business resilience, maintaining credit flow and enabling growth during a period of heightened global uncertainty.For over five decades, supporting small and medium enterprises has been at the core of RAKBANK’s strategy. Having served more than 250,000 SMEs across the UAE, the Bank continues to operate with a simple principle: if it does not help an SME grow, it does not build it. As market conditions evolve and businesses navigate shifting trade flows and cash cycles, RAKBANK is taking proactive steps to support its customers. The Bank has committed approximately Dhs2 billion in additional credit limits for both existing-to-bank and new-to-bank customers, spanning secured lending, term loans, trade finance and working capital solutions.Agencies ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.gulftoday.ae/gulftoday/uploads/images/2026/04/29/1074691.webp" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:20:57 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>RAK, Ruler, witnesses, signing, MoUs, with, Chinese, financial, institutions</media:keywords>
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<title>Ajman Bank posts Dhs130 million net profit in first quarter of 2026</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/ajman-bank-posts-dhs130-million-net-profit-in-first-quarter-of-2026</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/ajman-bank-posts-dhs130-million-net-profit-in-first-quarter-of-2026</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Ajman Bank reported a strong first quarter on Wednesday, posting net profit before tax of Dhs134 million and net profit after tax of Dhs130 million, as total revenue rose 22% year-on-year to Dhs443 million, reflecting growth across the Bank’s core financing, treasury and fee-generating businesses.Net revenue increased 12% to Dhs222 million, while non-funded income reached Dhs63 million - equivalent to 28% of net revenue - pointing to continued progress in the Bank’s effort to build a more diversified income base beyond financing margin, resulting.Sheikh Ammar Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Crown Prince of Ajman, Chairman of the Executive Council and Chairman of Ajman Bank, said the results reflected the Bank’s role within a UAE banking sector that continues to operate from a position of strength.“Ajman Bank’s performance in the first quarter confirms that we are building something of lasting value - an institution anchored in the Emirate of Ajman, grounded in Shari’ah principles, and growing with the confidence that comes from consistent execution,” Sheikh Ammar said.“Revenue growth of 22% is a clear signal that the business is moving in the right direction, and that our customers across retail, corporate, and government are choosing to deepen their relationship with the Bank.” Ajman Bank optimised its balance assets, standing at Dhs33 billion at the end of the quarter with customer financing growing 9% to Dhs23.2 billion, driven by demand across the Bank’s key lending segments. Total deposits reached Dhs28 billion.Current account and savings account balances rose 16% quarter-on-quarter, a measure of the Bank’s ability to attract and retain low-cost, relationship-driven funding. Total shareholder equity stood at Dhs 3.2 billion, supporting a Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) capital ratio of 12.6% - comfortably above regulatory thresholds and consistent with a well-capitalized balance asset.Profitability metrics improved across the board: Return on Equity rose 30 basis points to 15.5%, and Return on Assets at 1.6%, both reflecting more efficient capital deployment and a firmer earnings trajectory. Asset quality continued to improve, with the non-performing financing ratio declining to 6.5%, further down by 47 basis points quarter-on-quarter basis, reflecting strengthened risk management and portfolio quality.Mustafa Al Khalfawi, Chief Executive Officer, said the quarter’s results demonstrated that the Bank’s strategy was translating into measurable financial outcomes. “Despite the challenges facing the region, in a complex and evolving geopolitical environment, the Bank’s 22% revenue growth reflects the strength and sustainability of Ajman Bank’s performance.This is supported by disciplined asset growth, prudent funding cost management, and the development of diversified income streams built on strong foundations, enhancing the resilience of our business model, alongside continued cost discipline.’’ He added that “the 16% growth in Current Account and Savings Account (CASA) balances reflects the strengthening of Ajman Bank’s position as a primary banking partner. With improving returns, we enter the remainder of 2026 from a position of financial strength and will continue to build on this momentum with confidence and discipline.’’WAM ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.gulftoday.ae/gulftoday/uploads/images/2026/04/29/1074689.webp" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:20:57 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Ajman, Bank, posts, Dhs130, million, net, profit, first, quarter, 2026</media:keywords>
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<title>What UAE investors need to watch as Apple, Microsoft and Meta report earnings this week</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/what-uae-investors-need-to-watch-as-apple-microsoft-and-meta-report-earnings-this-week</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/what-uae-investors-need-to-watch-as-apple-microsoft-and-meta-report-earnings-this-week</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Gulf Today, Staff ReporterThree of the world&#039;s most valuable companies report earnings within 48 hours of each other this week, and for investors across the Gulf, the implications reach well beyond Wall Street.Microsoft publishes its fiscal third-quarter results after market close today, April 29. Meta Platforms follows also after the close. Apple then reports tomorrow, April 30.The reports arrive at a tense moment. Markets have been unsettled by trade tariff uncertainty, and investors are increasingly impatient for proof that massive AI spending is paying off. Microsoft and Meta alone are part of a group expected to spend more than $500 billion combined on capital expenditure this year, largely driven by data centres, chips and AI infrastructure.Fadi Abou Ras, CEO of AvaTrade Middle East, a regulated online trading broker, says the three companies should be read together rather than in isolation. All three carry serious weight in US indices and are widely held through the funds and ETFs that form the backbone of many Gulf portfolios.“Each one is an indicator of a different part of the economy. Apple is a window into consumer demand and how confident people feel about spending, Microsoft tells you about enterprise tech budgets and cloud demand and Meta is a read on digital advertising and broader sentiment around the online economy. Together they give a useful snapshot of where confidence is building and where it&#039;s being tested.”The time zone adds particular pressure for Gulf investors. Results drop in the middle of the night UAE time, with markets already moved by morning. Abou Ras urges caution.“US after-hours news can land late at night locally, then become the next morning&#039;s headline. That creates a feeling that you need to respond quickly. But speed isn&#039;t a strategy. The first reaction is rarely the final one.”Beyond the reported numbers, he says investors should watch management outlook and tone, because that shapes what markets expect next, as well as signals on whether AI spending is accelerating or pulling back, and margins. On the question of investor trust during high-attention market weeks, Abou Ras is direct.“Volatility and information overload test decision-making, and they test operational standards too. Investors should expect clear risk disclosure, responsible communication, and consistent service from the trading platforms they use. For us, regulation is a core value that underpins how we operate and builds trust with our clients.”Abou Ras said AvaTrade&#039;s regulation by the ADGM Financial Services Regulatory Authority means client fund protection, transparent pricing and strong governance standards are not optional extras, they are built into how the business operates.“The best decisions in volatile weeks come from discipline and risk awareness, so focus on process, not prediction,” he concluded. ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.gulftoday.ae/gulftoday/uploads/images/2026/04/29/1074520.webp" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:20:57 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>What, UAE, investors, need, watch, Apple, Microsoft, and, Meta, report, earnings, this, week</media:keywords>
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<title>CBUAE maintains Base Rate at 3.65%</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/cbuae-maintains-base-rate-at-365</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/cbuae-maintains-base-rate-at-365</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ The Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) has decided to maintain the Base Rate applicable to the Overnight Deposit Facility (ODF) at 3.65%.This decision was taken following the US Federal Reserve’s announcement today to keep the Interest Rate on Reserve Balances (IORB) unchanged.The CBUAE has also decided to maintain the interest rate applicable to borrowing short-term liquidity from the CBUAE at 50 basis points above the Base Rate for all standing credit facilities.The Base Rate, which is anchored to the US Federal Reserve’s IORB, signals the general stance of monetary policy and provides an effective floor for overnight money market interest rates in the UAE.WAM ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.gulftoday.ae/gulftoday/uploads/images/2026/04/30/1074767.webp" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:20:56 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>CBUAE, maintains, Base, Rate, 3.65</media:keywords>
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<title>Emirates SkyCargo expands freighter network to Toronto</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/emirates-skycargo-expands-freighter-network-to-toronto</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/emirates-skycargo-expands-freighter-network-to-toronto</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Emirates SkyCargo has launched a weekly freighter service to Toronto Pearson Airport, further strengthening air cargo links between Canada and the UAE. The new service expands cargo connectivity for Canadian businesses and supports growing bilateral trade flows.Badr Abbas, Emirates SkyCargo’s Divisional Senior Vice President, said, “Our freighter service to Toronto is an important milestone for Emirates SkyCargo as we continue to strategically expand our freighter fleet and network in line with evolving trade corridors. Exports from Canada to the UAE have been growing steadily in recent years, increasing 24% year on year between 2023 and 2024 facilitated by direct air connectivity and strong bilateral trade relations.“Our weekly freighter to Toronto further amplifies this positive momentum, providing Canadian businesses with an additional 100 tons of export capacity every week over and above belly hold cargo capacity on Emirates passenger flights. Additionally, the flight will also provide important connectivity between Canada and one of its largest trading partners, the EU, on the inbound segment with a stop at Amsterdam.”&quot;The launch of Emirates&#039; freighter service to Toronto Pearson is a significant milestone for our airport,” said Kurush Minocher, Chief Commercial Officer, Toronto Pearson. “As Canada’s largest air cargo hub, handling approximately 45 per cent of the country’s total, we play a critical role in fueling the economy by connecting Canadian businesses to global markets. This new service provides shippers with direct, reliable access to one of the world’s most expansive cargo networks and reflects continued confidence in Toronto Pearson as a strategic gateway for global trade.”Between Amsterdam and Toronto, the freighter flight supports main deck cargo capacity for movement of pharmaceuticals, perishables and other manufactured goods from the EU to Canada.Emirates SkyCargo is an important facilitator of trade to and from Canada since start of passenger flight to Toronto in 2007. More recently, the airline has transported over 11,000 tonnes of export cargo from Canada since 2023.WAM ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.gulftoday.ae/gulftoday/uploads/images/2026/04/30/1074774.webp" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:20:56 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Emirates, SkyCargo, expands, freighter, network, Toronto</media:keywords>
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<title>India, Türkiye cooperation delivers the Salim Dola arrest as a model for transnational security</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/india-turkiye-cooperation-delivers-the-salim-dola-arrest-as-a-model-for-transnational-security</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/india-turkiye-cooperation-delivers-the-salim-dola-arrest-as-a-model-for-transnational-security</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ In an era where transnational crime networks operate seamlessly across borders, the arrest and deportation of Indian drug kingpin Salim Ismailbhai Dola from Istanbul is more than just a law enforcement success. It is a powerful demonstration of what sustained international cooperation can achieve when nations rise above geopolitical complexities to confront shared threats.Dola, a Mumbai based narcotics trafficker with alleged links to global drug syndicates and underworld networks, had managed to evade Indian authorities since 2020. Moving from Dubai to Türkiye, he attempted to rebuild and expand his operations while staying beyond the reach of Indian law enforcement. Yet, his eventual capture in Istanbul and swift deportation to India on April 28, 2026, underscores a crucial reality: in today’s interconnected world, no criminal network is beyond reach when states collaborate effectively.What makes this case particularly noteworthy is the role played by Turkish authorities. Despite Ankara’s broader geopolitical alignments and relationships with countries that may not always see eye to eye with India, Türkiye chose to act decisively on intelligence inputs and legal requests from New Delhi. The issuance of an Interpol Red Corner Notice, followed by coordinated diplomatic and intelligence engagement, ensured that due process was followed and justice was served.This episode highlights a mature and pragmatic dimension of India Türkiye relations. While political narratives often focus on differences, especially in multilateral forums, the Dola case reminds us that cooperation in areas like counterterrorism, narcotics control, and transnational crime remains robust and result oriented. It reflects a shared understanding that threats such as drug trafficking, terror financing, and organized crime do not respect borders and require collective action.The operational details further reinforce this point. Dola’s attempt to secure Turkish citizenship through investment channels could have provided him with a layer of legal insulation. However, timely intelligence sharing by Indian agencies and swift action by Turkish authorities ensured that these efforts were thwarted. This indicates not just cooperation, but trust an essential ingredient in any meaningful security partnership.Moreover, this is not an isolated instance. Türkiye has, in the past, assisted in deporting individuals linked to extremist and criminal networks, including Indian nationals. Such actions build a track record of reliability and reinforce the idea that bilateral ties cannot be viewed solely through the prism of political rhetoric. There exists a parallel, often understated, layer of functional cooperation that delivers tangible outcomes.For India, the arrest of Dola is a significant win in its ongoing battle against international drug trafficking networks, particularly those with links to organized crime figures like Dawood Ibrahim’s network. The 2018 fentanyl seizure case, in which Dola was a key accused, had already underscored the scale and sophistication of these operations. Bringing him back to India not only strengthens ongoing investigations but also sends a clear message to others operating in similar networks.For Türkiye, this operation reinforces its credentials as a responsible stakeholder in global security. By acting against a high profile international criminal, Ankara has demonstrated its commitment to upholding international norms and cooperating with partners in tackling shared challenges.At a broader level, the Dola case offers an important lesson for global governance. In a fragmented geopolitical landscape, where alliances are often fluid and interests diverge, issue based cooperation remains both possible and necessary. Countries may disagree on certain political questions, but when it comes to combating threats that endanger societies at large, collaboration becomes imperative.The India Türkiye partnership in this instance should be seen as a template. It shows that even amidst differences, nations can find common ground in ensuring security, enforcing the rule of law, and protecting their citizens from the scourge of organized crime.As Dola now faces investigation and legal proceedings in India, the focus will rightly shift to dismantling the networks he was part of. But the larger story should not be lost. This is not just about one arrest. It is about the quiet, effective workings of international cooperation and a reminder that when countries work together with clarity and purpose, even the most entrenched criminal enterprises can be brought to justice. ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:20:56 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>India, Türkiye, cooperation, delivers, the, Salim, Dola, arrest, model, for, transnational, security</media:keywords>
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<title>Dubai Chamber of Commerce, FedEx discuss supply chain readiness</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/dubai-chamber-of-commerce-fedex-discuss-supply-chain-readiness</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/dubai-chamber-of-commerce-fedex-discuss-supply-chain-readiness</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Dubai Chamber of Commerce, one of the three chambers operating under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers, recently organised an open discussion in collaboration with FedEx, the world’s largest express transportation company, focusing on the readiness of supply chains in Dubai amid current global developments and ways to enhance the resilience of logistics services across all sectors.The meeting brought together 196 representatives of companies operating in Dubai and featured an interactive discussion on the logistics frameworks best suited to the current period.Participants also explored ways to help companies adapt to disruptions in global shipping routes caused by current developments through transport services offering flexibility, speed, and efficiency, helping to support trade flows worldwide.Maha Al Gargawi, Vice President of Business Advocacy at Dubai Chambers, said that close cooperation between the public and private sectors remains a key pillar of Dubai’s business environment. “Supported by advanced logistics infrastructure, the emirate is continuing to strengthen its position as a leading global hub for business and trade, with the resilience and agility to navigate evolving global conditions.”Sammy Bousaba, Managing Director Sales at FedEx Middle East, Indian Continent and Africa, stated, “Global trade is more dynamic and less predictable than ever. The advantage today lies in intelligent, connected logistics networks that provide real-time visibility and enable faster, more confident decisions.”The discussion explored how companies can proactively strengthen logistics resilience, which has emerged as a key priority across all sectors. It highlighted the role of artificial intelligence, alternative shipping routes, flexible operating models, and multimodal logistics services in supporting business continuity and improving preparedness for disruptions affecting global supply chains.Participants examined the key lessons emerging from current global challenges, as well as ways to develop proactive and effective policies to address new international developments.The discussion also explored the main trends expected to shape the future of the global logistics sector in the aftermath of current events. ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.gulftoday.ae/gulftoday/uploads/images/2026/04/30/1074755.webp" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:20:56 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Dubai, Chamber, Commerce, FedEx, discuss, supply, chain, readiness</media:keywords>
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<title>PureHealth reports revenue of Dhs7.3 billion in Q1</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/purehealth-reports-revenue-of-dhs73-billion-in-q1</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/purehealth-reports-revenue-of-dhs73-billion-in-q1</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ PureHealth Holding, the largest healthcare group in the Middle East, on Friday announced its financial results for the three-month period ended 31st March 2026, supported by strong underlying demand and geographic diversification.The Group’s revenue increased 10 per cent year-on-year to Dhs7.3 billion, driven by solid growth in PureHealth’s international Care (healthcare) portfolio and the Cover (insurance) vertical.PureHealth’s EBITDA rose 5 per cent year-on-year to Dhs1.2 billion, supported by the strength of its operating model and continued global expansion.Net profit reached Dhs415 million in Q1 2026, reflecting the impact of regulatory developments under the Unified Purchasing Programme (UPP) during the period.Kamal Al Maazmi, Chairman of PureHealth, said, “PureHealth delivered a strong start to 2026, with robust growth across the Group reflecting sustained demand and disciplined execution. Our performance continues to be driven by the scale and resilience of our integrated Care and Cover model, which provides both stability and long-term growth opportunities.&quot;The continued momentum in our international portfolio has played an increasingly important role in the Group’s growth and diversification, while complementing our leadership position in the UAE. As we move forward, we remain focused on advancing our strategy and reinforcing PureHealth’s position as a leading global healthcare platform.”Shaista Asif, Group Chief Executive Officer of PureHealth, said, “Our first-quarter performance reflects resilience across our core markets and the growing momentum of our international portfolio. Circle Health and Hellenic Healthcare Group delivered solid performances, significantly scaling our international revenue base and further reinforcing the strategic rationale for our global expansion.&quot;In the UAE, we continued to expand capacity, deepen clinical complexity, and grow our insurance platform, reflecting the sustained underlying strength of our home market. We continue to build on the strength of our integrated platform, accelerating clinical excellence, advancing our global expansion, and further strengthening our position as a leading international healthcare group.”Looking ahead, PureHealth remains well-positioned to deliver sustainable growth, supported by the continued expansion and integration of its international platform, disciplined growth in the Cover vertical, including Property and Casualty, steady demand across its core UAE operations, and ongoing investment in technology and digital capabilities.The Group expects its value-accretive, high-margin international portfolio to play an increasingly important role in driving revenue growth and diversification over the medium term, as recently acquired assets continue to scale and deliver synergies.At the same time, PureHealth will continue to invest in capacity expansion, service complexity, and high-acuity care across its network, while advancing digital and AI-enabled initiatives to enhance operational efficiency and patient experience.WAM ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.gulftoday.ae/gulftoday/uploads/images/2026/05/01/1074962.webp" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:20:55 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>PureHealth, reports, revenue, Dhs7.3, billion</media:keywords>
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<title>DCC discuss ways to enhance private sector competitiveness</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/dcc-discuss-ways-to-enhance-private-sector-competitiveness</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/dcc-discuss-ways-to-enhance-private-sector-competitiveness</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Dubai Chamber of Commerce (DCC), one of the three chambers operating under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers, recently hosted the second quarterly meeting of Business Groups and Business Councils for 2026, with the participation of 64 business groups and councils.Participants were briefed on Dubai Chamber of Commerce’s efforts to enhance the readiness of diverse economic sectors, support business continuity, and ensure the smooth flow of trade and investment in Dubai. The session also highlighted the chamber’s key priorities for the months ahead.Maha Al Gargawi, Vice President of Business Advocacy at Dubai Chambers, said, “Business Groups and Business Councils play a pivotal role in supporting the competitiveness of Dubai’s investment landscape and strengthening trade ties, particularly in light of current conditions. This reflects the strong public-private sector partnership that continues to drive the emirate’s growth.“We are committed to creating a supportive business environment that drives sustainable growth and encourages effective cooperation between stakeholders across all sectors, further strengthening Dubai’s position as a leading global hub for business and investment.”Participants were briefed on Dubai Chamber of Commerce’s efforts to enhance the readiness of diverse economic sectors, support business continuity, and ensure the smooth flow of trade and investment in Dubai. The session also highlighted the chamber’s key priorities for the months ahead.Maha Al Gargawi, Vice President of Business Advocacy at Dubai Chambers, commented: “Business Groups and Business Councils play a pivotal role in supporting the competitiveness of Dubai’s investment landscape and strengthening trade ties, particularly in light of current conditions. This reflects the strong public-private sector partnership that continues to drive the emirate’s growth. We are committed to creating a supportive business environment that drives sustainable growth and encourages effective cooperation between stakeholders across all sectors, further strengthening Dubai’s position as a leading global hub for business and investment.”The event included an in-depth panel discussion on the role of government readiness and agility in enabling businesses to operate, adapt, and grow. The session featured representatives from Dubai Customs, the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai, and Dubai Municipality.During the meeting, the chamber discussed effective solutions to address the current challenges arising from regional and international developments, with the goal of ensuring the resilience, competitiveness, and sustainability of the business community.The meeting highlighted business advocacy as a strategic priority for Dubai Chamber of Commerce, which continues to expand the role of the private sector in enhancing economic competitiveness. The chamber is working to enable Business Groups to contribute effectively to the development of regulatory frameworks, the improvement of business processes, and the expansion of opportunities, helping to drive sustainable growth across key economic sectors. The Business Groups and Business Councils operating under the umbrella of Dubai Chamber of Commerce serve as a bridge between the business community and key government entities. Through active engagement, these influential bodies support Dubai’s dynamic business environment, promote public-private partnerships, and drive the success of businesses in the emirate.WAM ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:20:55 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>DCC, discuss, ways, enhance, private, sector, competitiveness</media:keywords>
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<title>Oil prices whipsaw while US stocks glide near record peaks</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/oil-prices-whipsaw-while-us-stocks-glide-near-record-peaks</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/oil-prices-whipsaw-while-us-stocks-glide-near-record-peaks</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Oil prices whipsawed on Thursday and surged toward their highest levels since the war with Iran began, only for the leaps to quickly vanish. The US stock market, meanwhile, is gliding following strong profit reports from big companies like Alphabet.The S&amp;P 500 rose 0.4% and is just below its all-time high set earlier this week, as companies keep delivering fatter profits for the start of 2026 than analysts expected, even with very high oil prices and uncertainty about the economy. The Dow Jones Industrial Average was up 632 points, or 1.3%, as of 11:30 a.m. Eastern time, and the Nasdaq composite was 0.2% higher.Alphabet led the way and climbed 7.3% after the owner of Google and YouTube reported profit for the latest quarter that almost doubled analysts’ expectations. Investments in artificial intelligence “are lighting up every part of the business,” CEO Sundar Pichai said.The steadiness on Wall Street followed manic swings in the oil market, where prices surged overnight on worries that the Iran war will affect the flow of crude for a long time. Iran has closed the Strait of Hormuz to oil tankers, keeping them pent up in the Persian Gulf and away from customers worldwide, while a US Navy blockade is preventing Iran from selling its own oil.Traders are always buying and selling contracts for different kinds of oil, going out for many months. In the most actively traded part of the market for Brent crude, for delivery in July, the price got as high as $114.70 per barrel overnight. It then fell back toward $107 before sitting at $109.82, down 0.6%.So far during the war, the peak price for the most actively traded Brent contract is $119.50, which was set last month.In a less actively traded corner of the Brent market, the price for a barrel to be delivered in June briefly went above $126 overnight before pulling back toward $114.Brent’s price is still much more expensive than the roughly $70 level it was at before the war. But the morning’s easing, along with the continuing flood of better-than-expected profit reports from US companies, helped keep Wall Street stable near its records.Caterpillar, Eli Lilly, and Royal Caribbean all rallied more than 8% after delivering profits for the latest quarter that topped analysts’ expectations. That’s big because stock prices tend to follow the track of corporate profits over the long term.Still, a better-than-expected result isn’t always enough to boost a stock’s price if it’s already shot much higher.Meta Platforms tumbled 9.4% even though the company behind Facebook and Instagram made more profit last quarter than expected. Investors focused more on Meta’s increased forecast for how much it will spend on data centers and other investments this year as it builds out its AI capabilities, up to a range of $125 billion to $145 billion.Doubts are still high among some investors about whether all the AI spending by Meta and other companies will produce enough profit and productivity to make it worth it.Microsoft fell 4.9% after likewise raising its forecast for investments and other capital spending. But analysts also said accelerating trends at its Azure business were encouraging.Amazon slid 1.6% despite blowing past analysts’ expectations for earnings in the latest quarter.In the bond market, Treasury yields eased after oil prices gave up their big overnight gains. Reports also suggested the US economy’s growth accelerated by less in the first three months of the year than economists expected, while a measure of inflation worsened in March by about as much as expected.A separate report said that fewer US workers applied for unemployment benefits last week in an indication of fewer layoffs even though companies are announcing large cuts to workforces.The yield on the 10-year Treasury eased to 4.38% from 4.42% late Wednesday.In stock markets abroad, indexes rose in Europe following a weaker finish in Asia.London’s FTSE 100 jumped 1.6% after the Bank of England kept its main interest rate on hold. That followed similar decisions by the US Federal Reserve on Wednesday and the Bank of Japan on Tuesday to keep their rates unchanged.Germany’s DAX returned 1.3%, and France’s CAC 40 rose 0.5% after the European Central Bank also held its own interest rates steady.Hong Kong’s Hang Seng lost 1.3%, while stocks added 0.1% in Shanghai after a report said China’s factory activity slowed slightly in April but remained in expansion territory for the second month.Associated Press ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.gulftoday.ae/gulftoday/uploads/images/2026/05/01/1074955.webp" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:20:55 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Oil, prices, whipsaw, while, stocks, glide, near, record, peaks</media:keywords>
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<title>Maktoum reviews FTA’s  plans, achievements and initiatives</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/maktoum-reviews-ftas-plans-achievements-and-initiatives</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/maktoum-reviews-ftas-plans-achievements-and-initiatives</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Sheikh Maktoum Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Finance, and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Federal Tax Authority (FTA), chaired a meeting of the Authority’s Board of Directors.During the meeting, Sheikh Maktoum reviewed the FTA’s plans, achievements, and initiatives to leverage artificial intelligence technologies to sustainably enhance operational processes, elevate service quality, and assess their impact on institutional performance.Sheikh Maktoum directed the FTA to begin preparations to keep pace with the UAE Government’s new framework, which aims to transform 50 per cent of government sectors, services, and operations to implement self-executing and self-leading artificial intelligence models, known as Agentic AI, within two years. This aligns with the directives of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, as announced by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, to achieve a qualitative transformation in government work efficiency, service quality, and transaction speed.During the meeting,  Sheikh Maktoum also reviewed a comprehensive report on the latest developments in ongoing projects, the achievements of the Authority, and its future plans.Sheikh Maktoum Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum stated, “The directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed B in Zayed Al Nahyan and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum represent a defining milestone in our transition from digitising services to the era of autonomous systems. By integrating AI models into the core of government operations, we are creating a proactive ecosystem capable of making highly accurate decisions with unprecedented speed across all aspects of financial management.” He added, “Our new plans aim to transform FTA’s operational processes through the lens of smart sustainability. This approach empowers national talent to focus on strategic planning, oversight, and innovation. The government framework we have adopted ensures the sustainability of the UAE’s financial performance while strengthening the resilience and competitiveness of our national economy against global shifts.” Sheikh Maktoum commended the FTA’s performance, particularly the tax refund service for newly constructed citizen housing. He emphasised that the quality of life for Emiratis remains the true compass for all development projects, reflecting the FTA’s commitment to fulfilling the leadership’s vision of ensuring prosperity and family and social stability for the people of the UAE.The report showed that the FTA maintained strong performance levels across its sectors and services, including the VAT refund service for UAE nationals building new residences. The service continues to evolve through the adoption of advanced digital systems, in line with the leadership’s vision to advance a modern housing ecosystem for UAE nationals and provide them with the highest standards of quality of life and wellbeing.The report indicated that the Authority approved new refund applications from UAE nationals who recovered the VAT paid on the construction of their residences, totalling Dhs128 million during February and March 2026, compared to Dhs103 million during the same period in 2025, an increase of 24 per cent.The report further revealed that the number of Corporate Tax registrants reached 743,000, while the number of Value Added Tax registrants reached 587,000. The number of Excise Tax registrants stood at 1,787, and the number of tax agents reached 936.The meeting also reviewed the latest developments in the implementation of the Top-up Tax project under Pillar Two, in addition to the legislative, technical, and procedural steps taken to implement the e-invoicing project, which is being carried out in cooperation between the Ministry of Finance and the Federal Tax Authority. The project contributes to maintaining high levels of tax compliance through secure and effective mechanisms, while further enhancing the customer experience.The report also highlighted the achievements of the integrated tax system and the ongoing procedures for electronic integration between the FTA’s systems and relevant entities to streamline and accelerate compliance processes. It also reviewed the performance indicators of EmaraTax, the digital tax services platform, which reflected the large number of transactions completed since its launch, including registrations, tax returns, refund requests submitted through the platform, payments made through the Magnati payment gateway, and payments using GIBAN. The report also outlined the latest developments in the Digital Tax Stamps system for tobacco and tobacco products, as well as the results of the launch and implementation of its first and second phases.Meanwhile, Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) proposed to amend its Prescribed Company (PC) Regulations. The proposed amendments se ]]></description>
<enclosure url="https://www.gulftoday.ae/gulftoday/uploads/images/2026/05/01/1074954.webp" length="49398" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:20:55 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Maktoum, reviews, FTA’s, plans, achievements, and, initiatives</media:keywords>
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<title>Dubai Islamic Bank supports RAKCHARITY with Dhs7 million</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/dubai-islamic-bank-supports-rakcharity-with-dhs7-million</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/dubai-islamic-bank-supports-rakcharity-with-dhs7-million</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB) provided Dhs7 million to Ras Al Khaimah Charity Foundation (RAKCHARITY), completing its annual journey of benevolence and giving, and contributing to supporting charitable projects and initiatives implemented by the foundation for poor, low-income families.Abdulaziz Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Ras Al Khaimah Charity Foundation, appreciated the bank&#039;s keenness to support the foundation&#039;s charitable and humanitarian projects, and to cooperate with it annually regarding needy cases and poor families.Al Zaabi added that the annual support provided by the DIB Zakat Fund to the foundation plays a pivotal role in enabling the foundation to fulfill its responsibilities in supporting all humanitarian projects and initiatives implemented by the foundation for poor families, especially assisting those who have received housing grants and loans, by covering the fees for electricity and water connection, and helping them provide household necessities, such as electrical appliances and furniture, thereby achieving family stability for them and contributing to relieving them of financial burdens.This support also enhances the success of educational initiatives which the foundation is keen on, by ensuring the continuity of academic achievement for low-income individuals who are unable to pay outstanding school fees, and providing their school supplies, Al Zaabi said. He affirmed that this support, provided by the bank to various charitable and humanitarian organisations in the country, represents a ray of hope for needy families to meet their urgent needs. ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:20:55 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>Dubai, Islamic, Bank, supports, RAKCHARITY, with, Dhs7, million</media:keywords>
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<title>CBUAE, ICP, ADCB launch digital bank account opening services through &amp;amp;#039;Tourist Identity&amp;amp;#039; initiative</title>
<link>https://fedaeconomist.com/cbuae-icp-adcb-launch-digital-bank-account-opening-services-through-tourist-identity-initiative</link>
<guid>https://fedaeconomist.com/cbuae-icp-adcb-launch-digital-bank-account-opening-services-through-tourist-identity-initiative</guid>
<description><![CDATA[ The Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates (CBUAE), in collaboration with the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) and Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB), has announced the launch of digital bank account opening services through the &quot;Tourist Identity&quot; initiative.The service enables non-resident visitors to open digital bank accounts instantly and securely using the Tourist Identity.This step represents an important milestone in the UAE’s digital transformation journey and ongoing efforts to advance financial inclusion. The Tourist Identity provides visitors with a trusted digital identity upon arrival in the UAE, supported by advanced technologies, including biometrics and facial recognition, developed by ICP.Through the integration of ICP’s platform with ADCB’s mobile banking application, the initiative delivers a fully digital experience that allows visitors to open bank accounts within minutes and immediately access essential banking services, including digital debit cards for instant use.The initiative is aligned with the directives of the UAE’s wise leadership and supports the national vision to build a society powered by digital payments. It further promotes the adoption of digital payment solutions, strengthens consumer protection frameworks, and reduces reliance on cash transactions, thereby reinforcing the UAE’s position as a leading and advanced financial hub at both regional and global levels.Saif Humaid Al Dhaheri, Assistant Governor for Banking Operations and Support Services at the CBUAE, said, &quot;The successful launch of the Tourist Identity initiative reflects the UAE’s firm commitment to developing an advanced and secure digital financial ecosystem. By enabling instant digital onboarding and connecting visitors to the UAE’s national payment ecosystem, including the national payment scheme “Jaywan” and the instant payment platform “Aani”, the initiative contributes to enhancing ease of doing business and delivering an integrated and secure banking experience for visitors from the moment they arrive in the UAE.&quot;Major General Suhail Juma Al Khaili, Acting Director-General of Citizenship at the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security, stated, &quot;The Virtual Tourist Identity system, introduced by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security, represents a proactive and innovative initiative aimed at enabling various sectors across the UAE to deliver their services to visitors with ease and security, without the need to present or exchange traditional documents. This is achieved through the adoption of advanced biometric identification technologies, supported by artificial intelligence algorithms, within the Authority’s newly developed UAEKYC biometric identification framework.&quot;He added, &quot;This system is considered one of the leading initiatives at the regional level, as it enhances the overall visitor experience by facilitating seamless and efficient access to a wide range of services within the country. It also enables multiple sectors to leverage the platform, delivering a distinctive and high-quality experience for both visitors and residents alike, in alignment with the UAE’s vision to reinforce its leadership in digital transformation and quality of life.&quot;Ala’a Eraiqat, Group Chief Executive Officer of Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank, said, &quot;This initiative represents an important milestone in the continued evolution of the UAE’s financial sector, aligning banking innovation with the broader ambitions of the nation’s tourism economy. ADCB’s participation in this phase reflects our focus on shaping future‑ready financial models that enhance the UAE’s global competitiveness and attractiveness. By contributing our advanced digital capabilities and customer‑experience leadership, we are supporting a financial environment that is intuitive, resilient, and reflective of the UAE’s standing as a world‑class destination and global hub for financial innovation.&quot;WAM ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:20:55 +0400</pubDate>
<dc:creator>Economist Admin</dc:creator>
<media:keywords>CBUAE, ICP, ADCB, launch, digital, bank, account, opening, services, through, &amp;039Tourist, Identity&amp;039, initiative</media:keywords>
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