Global Pulse

标签： Africa

非洲

  • Abu Dhabi aims to double GDP, add 18,000 new hotel rooms and 216,000 jobs by 2030

    Abu Dhabi aims to double GDP, add 18,000 new hotel rooms and 216,000 jobs by 2030

    Abu Dhabi has unveiled an ambitious strategy to significantly boost its tourism sector, aiming to double its GDP contribution, add 18,000 new hotel rooms, and create 216,000 jobs by 2030. This initiative is part of a value-driven approach that integrates culture, sustainability, and innovation, as announced by Saeed Al Fazari, Executive Director at the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT).

    Al Fazari emphasized that the strategy prioritizes quality, cultural preservation, and sustainable practices. Abu Dhabi already boasts the world’s highest concentration of five-star hotels, with 21 new properties currently under development. The plan targets a 7% annual growth in visitors, increasing the tourism GDP contribution from Dh45 billion (US $24.5 billion) to Dh90 billion.

    The job creation target of 216,000 surpasses the previously stated goal of 178,000, reflecting an upward revision. Al Fazari highlighted the importance of equipping the youth with skills in digital marketing and creative industries to meet this demand. The emirate is investing Dh25.7 billion (US $7 billion) annually into tourism, culture, and creative industries, supported by expanded air connectivity with 30 airlines flying to 120 global destinations and advanced digital infrastructure, including biometric airport access and e-services.

    Abu Dhabi’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its protection of 75% of the UAE’s mangrove population and its UNESCO-listed Al Ain sites. Cultural assets, such as the Saadiyat Cultural District, which houses the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the soon-to-open Natural History Museum and Zayed National Museum, remain central to the strategy. Al Fazari confirmed the opening dates for these museums: the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi on November 22 and the Zayed National Museum on December 3.

    “Abu Dhabi is not just keeping pace with global travel trends,” Al Fazari concluded, “we are helping to define them.” This comprehensive plan positions Abu Dhabi as a global leader in tourism, blending economic growth with cultural and environmental stewardship.

  • NMDC Group posts strong nine-month results, net profit jumps 26%

    NMDC Group posts strong nine-month results, net profit jumps 26%

    The Abu Dhabi-based NMDC Group has announced a robust financial performance for the first nine months of 2025, with revenues climbing to Dh20.5 billion, marking an 11% year-on-year increase. Net profit soared by 26% to Dh2.8 billion, driven by efficient project execution, expanded margins, and strategic international market expansion. The engineering and marine dredging conglomerate, listed on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange, reported a net profit margin of 13.5% during this period. The company’s project backlog stood at Dh62.3 billion as of September, with Dh17.7 billion in new project awards, 38% of which originated from overseas markets. Notably, NMDC secured significant contracts, including a Dh2.24 billion project in Manila Bay, Philippines, a Dh382.7 million marina construction in Salalah, Oman, and a Dh4.17 billion subsea gas pipeline project in Taiwan. The Group’s total project pipeline reached Dh89 billion, encompassing its five business units: NMDC Dredging & Marine, NMDC Energy, NMDC Infra, NMDC Engineering, and NMDC LTS. Chairman Mohamed Thani Al Rumaithi highlighted the company’s strategic agility and execution capabilities, emphasizing its role as a trusted global partner for high-value, complex projects. Group CEO Eng. Yasser Zaghloul attributed the success to operational efficiency and diversification, underscoring the importance of international expansion and client confidence. Additionally, NMDC reinforced its regional energy development role through a three-year collaboration with ADNOC Logistics & Services and an extended partnership with Saudi Aramco. On the sustainability front, NMDC maintained its AA ESG rating from MSCI for the second consecutive year and deepened its partnership with the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi to protect marine ecosystems. Looking ahead, NMDC remains committed to driving growth by strengthening its presence in local and international markets.

  • UAE: New superyacht marina to be launched in Ras Al Khaimah

    UAE: New superyacht marina to be launched in Ras Al Khaimah

    Ras Al Khaimah is poised to elevate its coastal appeal with the launch of a cutting-edge superyacht marina on Raha Island, a project announced during the International Real Estate Investment Summit. Developed in collaboration with the Monaco Yacht Club, the marina will cater to a variety of vessels, including large superyachts, and is expected to become a focal point for both residents and tourists seeking a premium waterfront lifestyle. The initiative is part of the broader Mina Al Arab development, which spans nearly four million square meters and integrates residential, leisure, and hospitality elements across two interconnected islands. Sameh Muhtadi, CEO of RAK Properties, revealed that the company is nearing completion of projects on neighboring Hayat Island, with Raha Island set to become the next priority. The marina will feature dedicated spaces for smaller boats and larger superyachts, further enhancing the emirate’s maritime infrastructure. This development aligns with a surge of luxury investments in Ras Al Khaimah, including projects by global brands such as Armani, Four Seasons, Anantara, and Nikki Beach. Muhtadi emphasized that the involvement of these international operators underscores confidence in the emirate’s investment climate and regulatory framework. RAK Properties has reported significant growth, with a 32% increase in revenue and an 80% rise in profitability as of September, driven largely by international investors. Environmental sustainability remains a cornerstone of the development, with projects designed to protect mangrove habitats and balance progress with ecological preservation.

  • Saudi Arabia: Ithra Museum showcases 50 Arab Women redefining Modern Art

    Saudi Arabia: Ithra Museum showcases 50 Arab Women redefining Modern Art

    The Ithra Museum in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia, is currently hosting a groundbreaking exhibition titled ‘Horizon in Their Hands,’ which spotlights 50 pioneering women artists from the Arab world. This landmark show, curated by Rémi Homs in collaboration with the UAE-based Barjeel Art Foundation, celebrates the transformative contributions of these artists to modern art, particularly during the socially and politically tumultuous decades of the 1960s to the 1980s. The exhibition spans 12 countries, featuring works by renowned artists such as Sheikha Ibrahim, Fela Kefi, and Safeya Binzagr, who have redefined traditional crafts like embroidery, ceramics, and tapestry, blending them with contemporary artistic expressions. ‘Horizon in Their Hands’ not only challenges the male-dominated narrative of art history but also bridges the gap between fine art and craft, showcasing the ingenuity and resilience of Arab women artists. The exhibition, which runs until February 14, 2026, is a testament to the cultural reclamation and innovation driven by these artists, offering a powerful narrative of tradition, modernity, and empowerment.

  • Dubai Shopping Festival to begin December 5; Dh400,000 grand prize announced

    Dubai Shopping Festival to begin December 5; Dh400,000 grand prize announced

    The 31st edition of the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) is set to commence on December 5, 2025, and will run through January 11, 2026. This annual extravaganza promises to deliver unparalleled shopping experiences, world-class entertainment, and lucrative opportunities for participants. A highlight of this year’s festival is the Mega Raffle draws, where one fortunate shopper will win a brand-new Nissan vehicle along with Dh100,000 daily. Additionally, a grand prize of Dh400,000 will be awarded on the festival’s closing day. Raffle tickets, priced at Dh100 each, are available for purchase at Tasjeel centres, ENOC stations, ZOOM stores, and AutoPro service outlets. Each ticket grants two chances to win, with daily draws offering a selection of Nissan models, including the Pathfinder, X-Terra, X-Trail, Kicks, and Magnite. Participants who do not win in the daily draws will still have a shot at the Dh400,000 grand prize in a special draw on January 11, 2026. Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), emphasized the significance of the Mega Raffle as a cornerstone of the DSF, attributing its success to the unwavering support of strategic partners. The festival continues to embody Dubai’s vision of retail innovation and excitement, combining unbeatable shopping deals with a celebration of global retail excellence.

  • Daniel Radcliffe set to make Broadway return with ‘Every Brilliant Thing’

    Daniel Radcliffe set to make Broadway return with ‘Every Brilliant Thing’

    In a groundbreaking effort to enhance public health, the Burjeel Cancer Institute has unveiled a mobile breast cancer screening initiative aimed at making early detection accessible to all. This innovative program, aptly named ‘Early Detection on Wheels,’ brings state-of-the-art screening technology directly to communities, eliminating barriers such as distance and limited healthcare infrastructure. The initiative is particularly focused on underserved areas, where access to regular health check-ups is often restricted. By offering free or low-cost screenings, the program seeks to identify breast cancer at its earliest stages, significantly improving treatment outcomes and survival rates. The mobile units are staffed by experienced healthcare professionals who provide not only screenings but also educational resources to raise awareness about the importance of early detection. This initiative underscores Burjeel Cancer Institute’s commitment to combating breast cancer through proactive, community-centered solutions. The program has already garnered widespread support from local governments and health organizations, highlighting its potential to make a substantial impact on public health. As breast cancer remains one of the most prevalent cancers globally, this initiative represents a critical step forward in the fight against the disease.

  • Trump sets 7,500 annual limit for refugees entering US. It’ll be mostly white South Africans

    Trump sets 7,500 annual limit for refugees entering US. It’ll be mostly white South Africans

    In a significant policy shift, the Trump administration has announced a drastic reduction in the number of refugees admitted annually into the United States, capping the figure at 7,500 for the 2026 fiscal year. This marks a sharp decline from the previous ceiling of 125,000 set under President Joe Biden. The announcement, published in the Federal Registry on Thursday, did not provide a specific rationale for the decision but stated that the admission of these refugees is “justified by humanitarian concerns or is otherwise in the national interest.” Notably, the majority of these refugees are expected to be white South Africans, a group the administration has previously cited as facing discrimination and violence in their home country—a claim strongly denied by the South African government. The move represents a continuation of the administration’s restrictive stance on refugee admissions, which began with the suspension of the program on Trump’s first day in office. Since then, only a limited number of refugees, predominantly white South Africans, have been admitted, with some entering as part of ongoing legal proceedings. The reduced cap has had a significant impact on organizations dedicated to refugee resettlement, many of which have been forced to downsize due to the plummeting number of arrivals. This policy shift has drawn criticism from various quarters, as it marks a departure from the bipartisan support the refugee program has historically enjoyed.

  • ‘You are enough’: Therapist urges UAE women to rewrite their inner dialogue

    ‘You are enough’: Therapist urges UAE women to rewrite their inner dialogue

    At the ‘We the Women’ event in Dubai, renowned therapist Marisa Peer delivered a compelling message to a packed audience, urging women to rewrite their inner dialogue and reclaim their power. Peer, the founder of Rapid Transformational Therapy (RTT), emphasized the societal barriers that often hold women back, including self-doubt, perfectionism, and ingrained gendered narratives. She called for a shift in mindset, encouraging women to embrace their flaws and strengthen their self-belief. Peer highlighted the importance of empowering young girls early on, suggesting that parents and mentors should focus on instilling ambition and confidence rather than traditional roles. She also addressed the burden of societal judgment that women face, noting that 80% of women experience imposter syndrome. Peer stressed the transformative power of positive self-talk, advocating for affirmations like ‘I’m enough’ and ‘I matter.’ She urged women to let go of the pursuit of perfection, introducing her concept of being ‘flawsome’—embracing imperfections as a source of strength. Peer’s talk centered on the idea that beliefs shape reality, and she encouraged women to take control of their thoughts to create a more fulfilling life. Her message resonated deeply, offering practical strategies for women to elevate their self-esteem and achieve their full potential.

  • France arrests 5 new suspects in Louvre jewel heist probe

    France arrests 5 new suspects in Louvre jewel heist probe

    French authorities have made significant progress in the investigation of the high-profile Louvre jewel heist, arresting five new suspects on October 30, 2025. This development follows the apprehension of a third suspect earlier in the week, as reported by French TV station BFM. The latest arrests occurred in the Paris region late on Wednesday, with one individual suspected of being present at the crime scene during the robbery. The heist, which took place on October 19, saw four hooded thieves steal precious jewels from the Louvre’s Apollo gallery, home to the French Crown Jewels, during the museum’s opening hours. The incident has raised serious concerns about security at the world’s most-visited museum. Two men arrested last weekend have reportedly ‘partially admitted’ their involvement in the break-in, which involved entering through an upstairs window. The Paris prosecutor has been actively pursuing leads, and the recent arrests mark a crucial step in unraveling the full extent of the crime.

  • Robotaxis to electric pods, 8 smart mobility options driving Abu Dhabi into future

    Robotaxis to electric pods, 8 smart mobility options driving Abu Dhabi into future

    Abu Dhabi is spearheading a transformative journey in urban mobility, leveraging cutting-edge technologies to redefine transportation. Under the leadership of Abu Dhabi Mobility, the emirate has set an ambitious target: ensuring 25% of all trips are autonomous by 2040. This bold vision is part of a broader strategy to create a sustainable, connected, and efficient transport network. The initiative encompasses a diverse array of smart mobility solutions, ranging from autonomous vehicles to digital twin systems, positioning Abu Dhabi as a global leader in smart city innovation. Among the pioneering projects already in operation are driverless TXAI robotaxis, Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) buses, and Personal Rapid Transit (PRT) pods in Masdar City. These services are complemented by a growing network of micromobility options, including e-scooters and bikes, all integrated into the city’s transport ecosystem. Looking ahead, Abu Dhabi is developing the Smart and Autonomous Vehicle Industries (SAVI) cluster, a dedicated zone in Masdar City focused on advancing autonomous land, air, and sea transport. Additionally, plans are underway to enhance airport connectivity through light rail, Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), and automated shuttles. The emirate is also exploring intelligent marine transport solutions and has launched the ‘Abu Dhabi Digital Twin’ project, a comprehensive platform using AI and advanced simulations to optimize transport infrastructure. These initiatives underscore Abu Dhabi’s commitment to embracing innovation and sustainability, setting a benchmark for smart mobility worldwide.