AGP Executive Report

UAE Tourism & Economy: Iran-linked attacks have pushed Dubai’s luxury hotels to lean heavily on residents, with staycation deals booming as visitor numbers fall and some properties report sharp occupancy drops. Aviation Pressure: IATA warns surging jet fuel costs tied to the Middle East conflict could trigger more airline bankruptcies and speed up industry consolidation. Humanitarian Aid: Four UAE aid convoys loaded in Al Arish have entered Gaza under “Operation Chivalrous Knight 3,” carrying food and relief support. Abu Dhabi Community & Sport: Abu Dhabi Summer Sports (ADSS) opens at ADNEC with expanded indoor activities, while the Damj Award for People of Determination inclusion will announce winners mid-June. National Unity Drive: Sandooq Al Watan launches a “Pledge & Commitment” campaign inviting the public to sign a loyalty message to President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed. Infrastructure Update: RTA says 90% of work is done on the Dubai Harbour bridge, targeting June openings for key directions. Business & Finance: Lunate launches a new Shariah-compliant GCC dividend ETF, with listing on ADX later this month. Energy & Climate: Masdar and EDF sign a 15-year power deal for California’s BigBeau solar+storage project. Weather: Hot conditions continue, with inland areas reaching up to 47°C.

Airline Expansion: Etihad says it will add “double-digit” extra widebodies through 2031 and keep growing despite conflict-hit airspace, with June 15 schedules bigger than last year. Aviation Costs: IATA chief Willie Walsh warns soaring jet fuel prices could push more airlines into bankruptcy and trigger consolidation. Ebola Entry Curbs: UAE suspends new visas and blocks entry for travellers from Uganda, DRC and South Sudan, with limited exemptions, while cargo and transit continue. Regional Security: UAE condemns Iran’s drone and missile attacks on Kuwait and Bahrain; Qatar and the UAE call them violations of sovereignty and urge de-escalation. Nuclear Safety Row: Qatar renews condemnation of the Barakah attack at the IAEA, while the UAE and others stress nuclear safety concerns. Health & Community: Abu Dhabi court rejects a doctor’s Dhs300,000 compensation claim over a hotel fall. Culture & Youth: Chinese Bridge competition in Dubai highlights growing UAE youth interest in Chinese language and culture. Business & Trade: Dubai Chambers discusses boosting trade and investment with Lesotho.

Heat & Youth Sports: UAE doctors and parents are weighing risks as temperatures climb, with debate over whether kids should train outdoors or shift to early/late hours with better hydration and recovery. Fraud Watch: Dubai Police warned families about fake chalet/holiday rental scams after a Dh8,000 loss, urging residents to verify listings before paying deposits. Abu Dhabi Jiu-Jitsu: Baniyas topped day one of Round 4 of the Khaled Bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship, with tight contests across youth, adults and masters. UAE Mediation: The UAE helped broker a Russia–Ukraine prisoner exchange releasing 185 detainees from each side, bringing total swaps to 7,471. Regional Tensions: Iran’s state TV denied plans to target the UAE after Emirati reports of fresh strikes, as Gulf security remains in focus. AI for Government: MoEI and 42 Abu Dhabi launched a specialized AI hackathon to build solutions for energy, infrastructure, transport and housing services. Ebola Precautions: The UAE barred entry for travellers from DR Congo, Uganda and South Sudan amid the outbreak, with transit rules and hotlines in place. Dubai Police Anniversary: Dubai Police marked 70 years, highlighting its push for AI, smart services and proactive security.

IAEA Nuclear Safety: Qatar reiterated its condemnation of the drone attack on the UAE’s Barakah Nuclear Power Plant during an emergency IAEA meeting in Vienna, warning such strikes violate international law and nuclear safety principles. Ebola Response: Dubai Humanitarian airlifted 20 tonnes of WHO prepositioned medical supplies to support the Ebola outbreak in eastern DR Congo, via Uganda, to back hundreds of patients and about 280 healthcare facilities. UAE-US AI Push: Khaldoon Al Mubarak met senior White House officials in Washington to review investment and partnerships, highlighting progress on the UAE’s $1.4tn US plan and the UAE-US AI Campus aimed to scale AI infrastructure in Abu Dhabi. Textile Recycling Drive: The Naseej national initiative launched to cut UAE textile waste (220,000 tonnes yearly), with public events encouraging residents to donate, reuse and recycle. Dubai Travel & Transport: Flydubai is conducting a feasibility study for direct Pokhara–Dubai flights after on-site inspections, while Dubai Police logged 4,504 hard-shoulder overtaking violations this year and warned drivers against using the lane except for emergencies. Legal Q&A: A UAE buy-now-pay-later provider can’t impose a travel ban by itself; only courts or authorities can, and bans typically require a larger debt and risk of flight.

UAE Gaming Regulation: The UAE has licensed its first online sports betting and iGaming platform, Play971, under the new federal framework overseen by the GCGRA. Abu Dhabi Power Deal: China Energy Engineering (CEEC) won a $1.7bn EPC contract for the 2.6GW Taweelah C gas-fired IPP, with construction set to run 32 months. UAE–US Ties: Khaldoon Al Mubarak met US officials in Washington to push forward UAE-US economic and AI cooperation under the AI Acceleration Partnership. Property Watch: Dubai’s residential market cooled in May, with sales and transaction values down sharply year-on-year, according to Cavendish Maxwell. Tourism Momentum: Global travel leaders say the UAE tourism sector is poised for a fast rebound, with Engage by Elevate online 2026 drawing major hotel and tour operator participation. Finance Snapshot: UAE banking assets rose to AED5.57tn at end-April, while deposits and credit both edged up. Environment Push: World Environment Day coverage highlights UAE efforts to cut emissions and textile waste, including the Naseej textile circularity drive. Regional Tensions: Iran again claimed the UAE “participated” in military operations during the Feb 28 US-Israel offensive, as Gulf ceasefire talks remain fragile.

Aviation Milestone: Emirates promoted two Emirati women, Hanan Mohammed Jawad and Bakhita Al Mheiri, to captain—first Emirati female captains at the airline, both operating the Boeing 777. Regional Sports: The Arab Gulf Cup Football Federation set the draw for the Gulf Clubs Champions League (Sept 9) and confirmed the tournament dates (Oct 13 to Apr 30) with 12 clubs and UAE in the top tier for slots. Travel Advisory: The U.S. issued updated “Reconsider Travel” Level 3 guidance for the UAE and other Gulf states amid Iran-linked tensions, urging Americans to stay alert and monitor developments. Airline Disruption: British Airways pushed back Dubai and other Middle East flight resumptions until at least October 25, with refunds/options for affected passengers. UAE Climate Leadership: Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed reiterated the UAE’s climate-action push, tying sustainability to innovation and the legacy of Sheikh Zayed. Business & Payments: AvenuesAI said its UAE unit received in-principle Central Bank approval for a Retail Payment Services Category III licence. Public Safety: Dubai’s RTA is preparing air-conditioned rest areas for delivery riders across about 40 locations ahead of summer. Humanitarian Spotlight: A UAE lung transplant recipient shared how a stranger’s generosity saved his life, ahead of World Transplant Day.

UAE-Bahrain Diplomacy: UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed condemned Iranian missile and drone attacks targeting Bahrain in a phone call with Bahrain’s FM, stressing Bahrain’s security is tied to UAE and GCC stability. Finance & Banking: UAE and Bahrain central bank governors met to boost financial and monetary cooperation, while the UAE Central Bank hosted a Bahraini delegation to review digital transformation and coordination. Cybersecurity Push: Robo.ai’s Neurovia AI will join the 3rd Government Cybersecurity Summit as an official government AI cybersecurity partner, aiming to strengthen trusted visual intelligence for the public sector. Real Estate Deal: ORA Developers appointed UNEC as main works contractor for Phase 1 of BAYN in Ghantoot, a AED 1.9bn project covering 614 homes with construction starting June 1. Markets & Economy: A new Arada/Penta survey ranks the UAE top for global property investment interest, with 56% of investors showing serious intent. Health Update: UAE MoHAP reiterated there are no Ebola cases detected, saying authorities remain on high alert and are monitoring global developments. Travel/Business: Dubai launched “SME in a Box” to help entrepreneurs start and run businesses faster via a single entry point for key services. Aviation/Tech: UiPath received Dubai Electronic Security Center certification for its Automation Cloud in the UAE, clearing a compliance step for wider government and regulated enterprise use.

UAE Health Watch: The Ministry of Health and Prevention says there are currently no Ebola cases in the country, while authorities keep monitoring a traveller linked to a confirmed case abroad. Humanitarian Care: The UAE Floating Hospital in Al Arish carried out advanced leg-lengthening surgery for a critically ill Gazan patient, highlighting ongoing medical support for Gaza. Sports & Inclusion: More than 1,000 athletes with intellectual disabilities are competing in the UAE Games in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, a key step toward the 2027 Special Olympics World Games. Public Life: UAE residents can pledge support for President Sheikh Mohamed through a national “Pledge and Commitment” campaign. Regional Security: UAE leaders reaffirm solidarity with Bahrain after arrests tied to IRGC-linked activities, as Gulf states condemn attacks and urge a unified stance. Tech & Mobility: WeRide and Uber plan Spain’s first commercial robotaxi pilot in Madrid, building on UAE operations in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Nuclear Oversight: IAEA chief Rafael Grossi praised the UAE’s peaceful nuclear programme during a visit to Barakah, stressing safety and security standards.

Gulf Security Shock: Iran’s missile and drone attacks hit Kuwait’s airport, injuring people and suspending flights, as the US carries out strikes near the Strait of Hormuz and the ceasefire shows strain. UAE Diplomacy: UAE presidential advisor Anwar Gargash calls for a united Gulf stance after attacks on Kuwait and Bahrain, warning the region can’t face aggression alone. Business Pulse: UAE non-oil activity edges up in May (PMI 52.6) as demand improves, but Strait of Hormuz disruptions keep costs high and export orders under pressure. Dubai Enforcement Update: Dubai issues new rules for body camera use by enforcement officers, tightening privacy limits, storage security, and access controls. Energy Deal in Abu Dhabi: EWEC awards the 2.6GW Taweelah C IPP contract to a TAQA-led consortium, with a power purchase agreement running to 2050. Health & Pharma: Novo Nordisk launches Wegovy in the UAE, while doctors outline prescription and eligibility rules. Transport Disruption: British Airways extends Middle East flight suspensions through summer, affecting routes including Dubai, while Kuwait airport partially reopens. Lottery Win: UAE Lottery announces a Nepalese resident in Abu Dhabi wins AED 30 million.

Nuclear Safety: IAEA chief Rafael Grossi visited Barakah after last month’s drone attack, saying repairs could take “weeks” and calling the strike “carefully targeted,” while stressing UAE’s quick shutdown response and no radioactive release. Dubai Policing Rules: Dubai’s Executive Council resolution tightens body-camera use in enforcement and judicial documentation, with secure encrypted storage and privacy protections. Weather Watch: Dust-stirring winds and reduced visibility are expected across the UAE, with temperatures set to drop from Friday. Regional Diplomacy: UAE and seven Muslim/Arab states condemned Israeli settler incursions into Al-Aqsa, warning of violations of international law and the need to preserve the holy site status quo. Business & Finance: Mawarid Finance and Fimple signed a deal to build a composable banking platform for faster digital product launches. Oil Markets: ADNOC resumed naphtha exports via Oman’s Sohar route, easing supply pressure as Strait of Hormuz risks linger. Education Calendar: UAE MoE set third-term exams from June 24 to July 3, with the new academic year starting Aug 31.

Rent Relief in Abu Dhabi: Abu Dhabi Real Estate Centre has frozen rent increases across residential, commercial and industrial properties, keeping renewal and new contracts at the latest agreed rate until further notice. Dubai Summer Surprises: Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment says DSS 2026 runs July 2 to Aug 30 with 60 days of shopping, dining and family events, plus major sale moments and a “Back to School” push. New Dubai Islands Homes: Sharafi Group has launched Marea Residences on Dubai Islands, offering waterfront luxury homes from AED 2.74m with handover targeted for Q4 2027. Real Estate Delivery Updates: Shamal Holding says new completions at Dubai Harbour and Al Sufouh have received Building Completion Certificates, including a 845-space multi-storey car park and 39 villas. Tech and Finance: B2BROKER unveiled a major B2COPY interface overhaul for copy trading, PAMM and MAM operations; VEON also closed a USD 1.4bn bond offering to refinance 2027 debt. Ebola Misinformation Warning: UAE health authorities urged residents not to spread myths and advised avoiding travel to Ebola-hit countries unless necessary. Sports in the UAE: Andrés Iniesta begins his coaching career as head coach of Gulf United FC in Dubai.

Dubai Real Estate: Arif Developments won the “Editor’s Choice: Excellence in Luxury Living” award at the Gulf Business Real Estate Summit & Awards 2026 at Palazzo Versace Dubai, spotlighting its design-led luxury residential approach. UAE Social Policy: Dubai’s Ruler issued a law creating a Community Development Authority to regulate and expand the emirate’s social services, protect vulnerable groups, and set up community centres and integrated protection systems. UAE–Kuwait Solidarity: The UAE’s foreign ministry strongly condemned attacks attributed to Iran on Kuwait, calling them a violation of Kuwait’s sovereignty and a threat to regional stability. Abu Dhabi Smart Mobility: Q Mobility will roll out automatic parking payments across Abu Dhabi using number-plate recognition, with fees deducted from the Darb e-wallet on exit. UAE Weather: The National Centre of Meteorology warns of extreme heat, with Abu Dhabi forecast to hit up to 48°C this week. Regional Finance: Jordan and the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange launched an electronic trading link via Tabadul to boost cross-border investment and liquidity. Sports & Culture: The UAE karate season ended with the Al Etihad Cup and an inaugural Para-Karate Championship in Sharjah; RAK hosted a European Film Festival running until June 6.

UAE–Lebanon Solidarity: The UAE condemned Israeli strikes across Lebanon and urged intensified international efforts to halt attacks, protect civilians and prevent escalation. Dubai Mobility Boost: Dubai Taxi Company signed an MoU with Ajman’s AJ Industries to expand mobility services in Ajman, building on DTC’s existing school bus operations. Smart City Push: Dubai RTA reported digital revenue of AED 5.3bn in 2025, up 20.6%, with 628m+ digital transactions and 96% digital channel adoption. Abu Dhabi Health & Fitness: A new Abu Dhabi survey shows physical activity participation hit a record 60.3% in 2025, with satisfaction in sports events and infrastructure also rising. Cancer Care Upgrade: The UAE is positioning itself as a hub for next-gen cancer treatment, shifting toward genetic tumor profiling and tailored care through a wider healthcare innovation ecosystem. Ebola Travel Advisory: The UAE warned against travel to South Sudan, Uganda and DR Congo over Ebola concerns, despite no confirmed case in South Sudan. Energy Security: ADNOC is accelerating a West-East pipeline to boost exports via Fujairah and reduce reliance on the Strait of Hormuz, targeting operations in 2027. Road Safety Tragedy: A toddler died after falling down a staircase in Sharjah; police and child protection authorities are investigating.

UAE-Serbia Diplomacy: Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed spoke by phone with Serbia’s President Aleksandar Vučić, reaffirming plans to deepen ties under the UAE-Serbia Comprehensive Economic Partnership and expand cooperation in economy, development and renewables. Renewables Push: UAE renewables are being cited as a resilience model as global energy shifts intensify, with Noor Abu Dhabi and battery-backed projects like Al Dhafra highlighted for firm power delivery. Regional Security & Hormuz: Macron urged a rapid US-Iran agreement and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, while Fitch said Middle East ratings remain resilient despite disruption. Ebola Advisory: UAE warned against travel to Uganda, DR Congo and South Sudan unless absolutely necessary, while health authorities reviewed preparedness. New Civil Law: The UAE’s civil transactions reforms take effect June 1, lowering the age of adulthood to 18 and expanding financial freedoms for young people. Local Crime: Dubai Police arrested four in a Dhs12m luxury oud theft after a “fake princess” scam. Business & Courts: Dubai Commercial Court ordered payment of about Dhs1.43m over unpaid frozen chicken imports. Pilgrims Welcome: GDRFA Dubai welcomed returning Hajj pilgrims with a special arrival stamp reading “The UAE Welcomes the Return of Pilgrims.”

UAE Economy: The UAE’s real GDP grew 6.2% in 2025 to AED 1.9 trillion, with non-oil GDP up 6.8% to AED 1.5 trillion, led by construction and finance. Sports: The UAE added more medals at the Asian U20 Athletics Championships in Hong Kong, including a fifth gold via a mixed 4x400m relay in a championship-record 3:18.81, plus standout individual sprint wins. Futsal: Al Bataeh were crowned UAE Futsal League champions for a fifth time and completed a domestic double after also winning the Futsal Cup. Crime: Dubai Police busted a gang behind a Dh12 million luxury oud theft using a fake “princess” ruse, recovering the oud within 12 hours. Transport & Cost of Living: UAE petrol and diesel prices for June 2026 were announced, with Super 98 rising to Dh3.95 per litre and diesel falling to Dh4.33. Public Health: UAE authorities reviewed Ebola preparedness and issued travel advisories urging residents to avoid non-essential trips to affected African countries. Culture & Space: Dubai Astronomy Group guided residents to Al-Quaa Desert for rare Milky Way viewing away from heavy light pollution.

UAE Economy: The UAE’s real GDP grew 6.2% in 2025 to Dh1.9tn, with non-oil GDP up 6.8%, led by construction, finance and real estate. Dubai Transport & Costs: From Monday, Dubai motorists will pay 5% VAT on Salik road tolls and Parkin parking fees, raising peak tolls and tag costs. Eid Mobility: The RTA urged visitors heading to Dubai Mall and other hotspots to use the Metro and park-and-ride to ease holiday traffic. Weather & Heat Risk: Scientists say AI can forecast UAE heatwaves with 96% accuracy, as temperatures are expected to stay extreme. Property Watch: Dubai real estate transactions jumped 20% in April to $18.7bn, with off-plan still driving most activity. Regional Security: The UAE said it is discussing a currency swap line with the US, while maritime authorities warned ships to be extra cautious in the Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing operations. Culture & Tourism: Volunteers from the Dubai Astronomy Group are taking people to Al Quaa Desert for rare Milky Way stargazing away from city light pollution. Sports: Dubai Basketball booked the ABA League Finals after a 103-77 Game 3 win.