The UAE has established its position as a global hub for trade and investment, underpinned by an open, agile and multi-partnership economy, advanced infrastructure with the country’s non-oil foreign trade exceeding AED1.9 trillion ($517.36 billion) during the first half of 2026, a senior minister has said.
Emaar Hospitality Group has opened Vida Aljada, marking the Vida Hotels & Resorts brand’s debut in Sharjah and adding a five-star lifestyle destination to Aljada, the mixed-use development by Arada.
China’s Sunstone Development has signed an MoU with the UAE’s Ministry of Investment to set up a $300 million anode production facility in the UAE.
Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) has introduced the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme at Al Shindagha Museum, the UAE’s largest heritage museum, and Etihad Museum, strengthening accessibility and inclusion across its cultural and heritage sites.
The UAE and Sri Lanka are exploring stronger investment and tourism ties, including smoother travel and cooperation in hospitality. UAE Minister Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri highlighted tourism’s role in economic growth, citing more than 43,333 Sri Lankan visitors in early 2026.
Air Arabia will add a fourth daily non-stop flight between Sharjah and Bangkok from 25 October 2026, increasing its service to 28 weekly flights and strengthening UAE-Thailand connectivity.
Three UAE-backed solar power plants have been inaugurated in Comoros, marking a step toward strengthening the island nation’s electricity infrastructure, reducing dependence on imported diesel and expanding access to renewable energy.
Etihad Airways, the UAE’s national airline, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the UAE Wrestling Federation to become its Official Airline and Strategic Partner, supporting athletes, sport and communities across the Emirates.
The UAE Rare Disease Society has announced that it has successfully won the bid to host the International MPS Network (IMPSN) Conference in 2028.
Schneider Electric has concluded its Innovation Summit Middle East & Africa in Abu Dhabi, highlighting energy intelligence as a key phase of the energy transition as artificial intelligence, electrification and industrial expansion reshape regional energy demand.
