Author: MoneySecrets

Dnata has officially begun operating a fleet of self-driving vehicles at Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International Airport. The company deployed six electric autonomous tractors, model EZTow, developed by TractEasy. These vehicles transport baggage between terminals and aircraft, towing up to four containers per trip at speeds of up to 15 km/h, along pre-defined routes. As the vehicles are gradually integrated into daily operations, staff previously operating manual tractors will be reassigned to more complex, value-added roles. This transition is expected to accelerate baggage handling, boost overall efficiency, and reduce human error, enhancing airside safety. The project, valued at…

Dubai has jumped five places to rank 7th globally and 1st in the Middle East for attracting high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs), according to the Julius Baer Global Wealth and Lifestyle Report 2025. Despite a modest 1% rise in local currency prices, the city is now a top contender alongside traditional wealth centers like London, Monaco, and Zurich. The report highlights a global shift in the priorities of wealthy individuals amid declining consumption, geopolitical uncertainty, and looming trade disputes. Even before new U.S. tariffs were announced, data showed a clear shift toward cautious spending and long-term planning. Over half of the world’s…

Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) has issued 36 full licenses to virtual asset firms and registered over 400 entities involved in trading, blockchain services, and support activities. According to CEO Matthew White, hundreds more are in various stages of licensing, and global companies continue to apply. In early 2025, VARA partnered with Dubai Land Department to launch a regulatory initiative enabling fractional property ownership through tokenized assets. The pilot phase included two properties co-owned by 300 investors, 70% of whom were first-time property owners in Dubai. White expects tokenized real estate to soon be tradable on public platforms. VARA…

Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB) posted a net profit of AED 5.014 billion after tax for the first half of 2025, marking an 18% year-on-year increase. Pre-tax profit reached AED 5.942 billion. Net interest income rose by 7% to AED 7.048 billion. Meanwhile, non-interest income surged 36% to AED 3.693 billion. As a result, total operating income grew by 15%, reaching AED 10.741 billion. ADCB’s operating profit before provisions jumped 22% to AED 7.766 billion, reflecting the bank’s solid performance across core activities. Total assets rose 17% year-on-year and 10% in H1 2025, reaching AED 719 billion. Net loans and…

The Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) has established a strategic partnership with the UAE Family Businesses Association. The aim is to facilitate entry for investors into Abu Dhabi’s market and to direct private investments toward national priorities. The partnership will strengthen the emirate’s wealth management ecosystem and support Abu Dhabi’s vision of becoming a global investment hub. It also helps accelerate economic transformation by tapping into the Association’s international network of family businesses. Under the agreement, ADIO will offer dedicated services to major investors and family businesses. These include help with business setup, licensing, VIP reception, and building strategic partnerships.…

The UAE Ministry of Economy and Tourism has signed a cooperation agreement with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). The goal is to enhance the country’s intellectual property (IP) framework and align it with global best practices. The agreement was signed during the UAE delegation’s participation in the 66th session of the WIPO General Assemblies, held in Geneva. Minister of Economy and Tourism, H.E. Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, called the agreement a major step in strengthening the institutional structure of the UAE’s IP system. It supports the national vision of building a dynamic, innovation-led economy protected by robust legislation…

The UAE is increasingly leveraging artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), and Wi-Fi 7 technologies to attract high-value tourists and reshape luxury hospitality. A recent Forbes Middle East article highlights how these tools are transforming guest experiences, aligning with the country’s broader strategy to diversify its economy and position itself as a global tourism hub. Contactless Services and Personalized Luxury According to a joint Oracle-Skift report titled “Hospitality in 2025”, 73% of hotel guests prefer self-service options to minimize human interaction, while 96% of hoteliers are investing in such technologies. In the UAE, AI and IoT solutions are now…

Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) has inaugurated the final reduction cell in its pilot project for next-generation smart smelting technology at its Al Taweelah site. This milestone paves the way for wider deployment of the advanced EX technology in the future. A Leap in Energy Efficiency and Global Leadership The EX technology, now in its tenth generation, was developed in-house by EGA to boost aluminium output while reducing energy consumption and emissions. The pilot project is a cornerstone of EGA’s growth strategy and reinforces its global leadership in aluminium smelting innovation. Homaid Abdulla Al Shemmari, EGA Chairman, stated that the EX…

The United Arab Emirates continues to solidify its position as a global hub for wealth management. The UAE surpasses its regional role to become the top destination for high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) and global financial institutions. This is driven by a unique model that combines economic openness, financial stability, and forward-looking government policies. According to a recent report by Henley & Partners, expectations indicate that the UAE will attract a net inflow of 9,800 millionaires in 2025, bringing with them investable wealth totaling around USD 63 billion. Global Confidence in the UAE’s Financial Environment Suvo Sarkar, Vice Chair of the Advisory…

Strengthening Bilateral Ties Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, Minister of State, participated in the Burkina Faso Investment Forum held in Abu Dhabi. The event welcomed a high-level delegation led by Karamoko Jean Marie Traoré, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Cooperation, and Burkinabe Abroad, alongside ministers and senior advisors from Burkina Faso. Warm Greetings and Diplomatic Support During the forum, Sheikh Shakhboot conveyed greetings from Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, to Minister Traoré. He expressed best wishes for continued progress and prosperity for the government and people of Burkina Faso. Expanding…