8th Abu Dhabi Dialogue Adopts 'Future-of-Work' Agenda for Gulf Migrant Workers
Ministers from 17 Asian sending and GCC receiving states convened in Dubai for the 8th Abu Dhabi Dialogue, adopting a 'Future-of-Work' agenda. The initiative aims to enhance skills, improve labor mobility governance through digitalization and AI, and strengthen protection mechanisms for migrant workers in the Gulf region. Key outcomes include pilot 'Skills Mobility Corridors' and a blockchain ledger for contract tracking.
UAE-Backed Firm Acquires 49% Stake in Trump Family's Crypto Company, World Liberty Financial
An investment firm linked to the United Arab Emirates, backed by Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, secretly acquired a 49% stake in the Trump family's cryptocurrency venture, World Liberty Financial, for $500 million. The deal, signed by Eric Trump in January 2025, occurred days before President Donald Trump's inauguration and has raised questions regarding potential conflicts of interest.
UAE and Italy Presidents Bolster Strategic Partnership, Address Global Conflicts
UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Italian President Sergio Mattarella met in Abu Dhabi on January 28, 2026, to enhance bilateral cooperation across economic, technological, and cultural sectors. Discussions also focused on diplomatic solutions to regional and international conflicts, reinforcing the strategic partnership between the two nations.
Putin and UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan Hold Talks in Moscow on Bilateral Ties and Global Issues
Russian President Vladimir Putin and UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan are meeting in Moscow today, January 29, 2026, to discuss strengthening bilateral cooperation in economy, trade, investment, and energy, alongside regional and international matters, including the Middle East situation.
GlassPoint Secures $20 Million Funding to Accelerate Global Solar Industrial Heat Projects
GlassPoint, a leader in solar industrial process heat, has successfully closed a $20 million funding round. Led by N.I.S. New Investment Solutions with participation from MIG Capital, the investment will fuel the company's global expansion and advance key megaprojects in the US and Saudi Arabia, aiming to decarbonize heavy industries.
UAE to Establish Major Food Cluster in India's Andhra Pradesh Following WEF 2026 Discussions
The United Arab Emirates has committed to establishing a significant food cluster in Andhra Pradesh, India, a decision reached during discussions at the World Economic Forum 2026 in Davos. This initiative aims to bolster food processing, agri-exports, and value-chain integration, with the UAE also pledging support for 40 companies to invest in the state.
GCC 'Schengen-Style' Tourist Visa Launch Postponed to 2026 Amid Security Integration Challenges
The highly anticipated GCC 'Schengen-style' tourist visa, officially known as the GCC Grand Tours Visa, has been delayed until 2026. The postponement is attributed to the complex need for enhanced security integration, alignment of immigration databases, and technical hurdles among the six member states: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.
United Arab Emirates Joins US 'Board of Peace' Initiative for Gaza Reconstruction
The United Arab Emirates has accepted an invitation from the United States to join the newly formed 'Board of Peace.' Led by former US President Donald Trump, the board aims to oversee post-war reconstruction in Gaza and implement his 20-point peace plan, despite international concerns regarding its broader mandate and funding structure.
The UAE's Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has set a binding minimum wage of AED 6,000 per month for Emirati citizens in the private sector, effective January 1, 2026. This move, part of the Emiratisation strategy, aims to enhance national participation and ensure competitive compensation. Companies have until June 30, 2026, to comply or face penalties.
Abu Dhabi Unveils Comprehensive Carbon Capture Policy to Bolster Decarbonization Efforts
Abu Dhabi's Supreme Council for Financial and Economic Affairs has launched a new Carbon Capture Policy, establishing a robust regulatory framework for Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) activities. The policy aims to drive decarbonization, foster innovation, and enhance the emirate's sustainable economy.
Abu Dhabi Intensifies Global Water Diplomacy Ahead of 2026 UN Water Conference
Abu Dhabi is significantly boosting its water diplomacy, finance, and governance efforts in preparation for co-hosting the 2026 UN Water Conference with Senegal. These initiatives include the launch of the $2 billion Abu Dhabi Global Water Platform and strategic engagements during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2026, aiming to accelerate SDG 6 and enhance global water security.
Nigerian President Tinubu Arrives in Abu Dhabi for 2026 Sustainability Week
Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has arrived in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, to participate in the 2026 Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW). The week-long event, themed 'The Nexus of Next: All Systems Go,' focuses on global sustainable development, climate action, and investment partnerships.
Somalia Escalates Airspace Dispute with UAE Over Alleged Violations and Yemeni Separatist Transit
Somalia has intensified measures against the United Arab Emirates, banning its military and cargo flights from Somali airspace. This escalation follows alleged repeated violations of sovereignty, specifically the unauthorized transit of Yemeni separatist leader Aidarous Al-Zoubaidi via a UAE military aircraft. The move further strains already tense diplomatic relations between the two nations.
Dubai Targets 90% Cashless Transactions by End of 2026
Dubai is set to become a predominantly cashless society by the end of 2026, aiming for 90% digital transactions across government and private sectors. This initiative, announced in October 2024, will introduce new digital payment methods for tourists and alter visa payment processes, projecting an annual economic boost of over AED 8 billion.
UAE Unveils New Specialized Visa Categories to Attract Global Talent and Boost Key Sectors
The United Arab Emirates has introduced new specialized visit visa categories, including for AI specialists, entertainment professionals, event attendees, and maritime tourists. These reforms, announced in late 2025 and now operational, aim to attract global talent, boost tourism, and strengthen the UAE's position as a leading hub for innovation and economic diversification.
Four Indian Expats, Including Three Siblings, Die in Tragic Abu Dhabi Car Crash
A devastating car crash in Abu Dhabi claimed the lives of four Indian expatriates, including three young siblings and their domestic worker, on Sunday. The family from Kerala was returning from the Liwa Festival when the accident occurred, leaving the parents and two other children injured.
UAE Lowers Legal Age of Maturity to 18, Aligning with Global Standards
The United Arab Emirates has officially reduced the legal age of maturity from 21 lunar years to 18 Gregorian years, effective early 2026. This landmark reform, part of a new Federal Decree-Law, aims to empower young adults, streamline legal processes, and align the nation's civil laws with international norms.
UAE Arrests and Extradites Notorious Ecuadorian Fugitive Roberto Carlos Alvarez Vera
Authorities in the United Arab Emirates have arrested and extradited Ecuadorian national Roberto Carlos Alvarez Vera, also known as 'El Gerente,' who was subject to an Interpol Red Notice. He is accused of leading the 'Border Commandos' and involvement in the killing of 11 soldiers in Ecuador. The extradition highlights strong international cooperation.
UAE Solidifies Global Space Leadership with Landmark 2025 Achievements
The United Arab Emirates marked 2025 with significant advancements in its space sector, expanding orbital infrastructure, forging international partnerships, and progressing lunar and deep-space missions. Key milestones include new satellite deployments, a commitment to the Lunar Gateway, and the development of the Rashid 2 Rover.
UAE Enacts Landmark Federal Decree-Law for Child Digital Safety
The United Arab Emirates has issued a new federal decree-law to protect children from online risks and harmful digital content. The legislation mandates strict obligations for digital platforms and internet service providers, establishes a Child Digital Safety Council, and outlines caregiver responsibilities, aligning with the UAE's 2026 'Year of Family' initiative.
