The United Arab Emirates is experiencing a transformative wave in consumer behavior, with digital transactions surpassing $60 billion in 2025, reflecting a nationwide embrace of e-commerce. Data from the UAE Central Bank reveals that retail transactions under the UAE Funds Transfer System (UAEFTS) surged by 22.57% in 2024, totaling 109.7 million transactions worth Dh7.4 trillion (approximately $2 trillion). This represents a 20.63% increase in transaction value compared to the previous year, highlighting the country’s accelerating digital transformation. Projections indicate that digital payment transaction values will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.4%, reaching nearly $118 billion by 2030. By then, the number of e-commerce users in the UAE is expected to hit 10.63 million, according to Statista. This digital boom is not only reshaping consumer habits but also compelling businesses to adapt. Blue Ocean Global Group, a Dubai-based distribution leader representing over 25 regional and international brands, has significantly reduced its offline retail operations to focus on becoming a fully technology-driven e-commerce distribution platform. Shahzad Ahmed, Chairman of Blue Ocean Global Group, noted that the company’s e-commerce distribution business has grown by 40% year-on-year, managing inventories for over 550 SKUs to meet rising demand for consumer and electronic goods online. Ahmed attributed this shift to the preferences of millennials and Gen Z consumers, who are driving the digital revolution. The company has also invested heavily in enhancing its supply chain, leveraging emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, and Machine Learning to streamline B2B operations. Rohit Savara, CEO of Blue Ocean Global Group, emphasized that embracing the Fourth Industrial Revolution is essential for staying competitive in today’s rapidly evolving business landscape.
标签： Africa
非洲
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Dubai’s property market enters a phase of selective growth
Dubai’s real estate market is undergoing a significant transformation, transitioning from rapid expansion to a more measured, segment-driven growth phase, as revealed by Q3 2025 data. According to a report by Betterhomes, the city recorded 55,280 property transactions worth Dh139.7 billion, marking an 18% year-on-year increase in both volume and value. However, the market’s trajectory is far from uniform, with distinct trends emerging across different property types. Apartments, particularly off-plan units, emerged as the standout performers, with sales surging 35% quarter-on-quarter—the highest jump ever recorded. Studios and one- to two-bedroom units dominated 80% of apartment transactions, driven by investor demand for liquidity and rental returns. In contrast, the villa and townhouse segment experienced a downturn, with villa sales dropping 22% year-on-year and off-plan villa transactions plummeting 69%. Louis Harding, CEO of Betterhomes, noted that villas, especially off-plan ones, face pricing and design challenges that require recalibration. Meanwhile, Dubai’s rental market remained robust, with leasing transactions nearly doubling year-on-year (+92%). Apartments led the charge with a 42% quarter-on-quarter increase, while townhouses rose 36%. The average annual rent stood at Dh196,000, with apartments averaging Dh145,000. Investor activity continued to dominate, accounting for 63% of all purchases, up from 58% in Q2. Mortgage-backed transactions eased slightly to 51%, reflecting a balanced buyer mix. Christopher Cina, Director of Sales, highlighted the market’s strength and depth, with volumes surging 11% despite a 6% dip in values from Q2 highs. The average price per square foot reached Dh1,664, nearly double the 2020 level. Over 28,500 units were delivered in 2025, with 250,000 more scheduled through 2027, underscoring Dubai’s long-term development momentum. As Q4 begins, the market is expected to focus on mid- to upper-mid products, particularly apartments, while luxury property transactions show signs of pause. Harding concluded that the market’s narrative is shifting from runaway growth to realignment, with Q4 set to test the stability of these trends.
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NRIs in UAE: Setting up a shipbuilding business in India after retirement
The Indian government has unveiled a transformative financial package worth approximately Rs700 billion to bolster the maritime sector, offering lucrative opportunities for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and global investors. This initiative, designed to address India’s minimal share in global shipbuilding output, focuses on four key areas: enhancing domestic capacity, improving long-term financing, promoting greenfield and brownfield shipyard development, and advancing technical capabilities and skilling. The package includes three major schemes: the Shipbuilding Assistance Scheme (Rs250 billion), the Maritime Development Fund (Rs250 billion), and the Shipbuilding Development Scheme (Rs200 billion). Collectively, these schemes aim to generate Rs4.5 trillion in investments, produce 2,500 vessels, and create a 4.5 million gross tonnage capacity, positioning India as a maritime self-reliant nation. Additionally, the initiative seeks to build resilient supply chains and reduce dependence on foreign ships. For NRIs like those in the UAE considering post-retirement ventures in India, this presents a promising opportunity to leverage their expertise in shipbuilding and related industries. Beyond maritime advancements, India has made significant strides in innovation, climbing from the 81st position in 2015 to the 38th in 2025 on the Global Innovation Index (GII). This growth is driven by robust ICT services exports, a vibrant venture capital landscape, and advancements in technology, including the development of semiconductors and 6G infrastructure. Furthermore, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is making progress in internationalizing the rupee, with plans to establish reference rates for cross-border trade transactions, starting with the Indonesian Rupiah and the UAE Dirham. These measures aim to enhance the rupee’s acceptability in global trade, though full implementation will require time and increased transaction volumes.
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Armenia to host world tourism communication forum this month
Armenia is set to host the World Tourism Communication Forum from October 23 to 25, 2025, in Yerevan. Organized by the Tourism Committee of the Ministry of Economy, the event, titled “Tourism Talks: Connecting People, Places, and Perspectives,” aims to foster meaningful dialogue and collaboration between public and private sectors. The forum will bring together global leaders, policymakers, and communication experts to explore how strategic communication can shape the future of tourism. Lusine Gevorgyan, Chairman of the Tourism Committee of Armenia, emphasized the forum’s goal to highlight the role of communication in building trust, inclusion, and sustainable tourism growth. The event will feature keynotes, panel discussions, workshops, and interactive dialogues on themes such as intercultural communication, destination branding, and community-driven narratives. Distinguished moderators, including UN Tourism Regional Director Cordula Wohlmuther and BBC Studios’ Sergey Stanovkin, will lead the sessions, ensuring insightful discussions and actionable takeaways for participants.
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Watch: Abu Dhabi rolls out driverless vehicles to clean, sanitise its corniche
Abu Dhabi has taken a significant leap in autonomous mobility with the introduction of driverless vehicles, known as RoboSweepers, to clean and sanitize its iconic corniche. These advanced machines, designed for urban environments such as pavements, public spaces, and pedestrian areas, aim to reduce reliance on manual labor while ensuring optimal public hygiene. The project, developed by K2 subsidiary Autogo under the supervision of the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council, is overseen by Abu Dhabi’s Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT).
Equipped with sensors and modern navigation technologies, RoboSweepers operate along pre-programmed routes, performing cleaning tasks without human intervention. This initiative follows the success of Abu Dhabi’s robotaxis, which recently completed 30,000 trips across key areas including Yas Island, Saadiyat, and Masdar City. The robotaxi fleet has tripled in size over the past year, expanding to Al Reem and Al Maryah Islands.
Sean Teo, Managing Director of K2, emphasized the significance of this innovation, stating, ‘The RoboSweeper devices represent a leap forward in building future cities. We remain committed to investing in technologies that support Abu Dhabi’s vision and meet the needs of the community, today and in the future.’
The emirate’s media office shared a video showcasing the RoboSweepers in action, highlighting their efficiency and role in advancing urban cleanliness. This move underscores Abu Dhabi’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance public services and improve the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.
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Watch: UAE wadis overflow, roads turn into rivers as heavy rains hit mountains
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) experienced another day of intense rainfall on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, as a persistent low-pressure system continued to affect the region. The relentless downpour transformed mountain roads and wadis into rushing rivers, with videos circulating online showcasing the dramatic scenes. The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) had earlier forecasted increased cloud cover and rainfall in the eastern and southeastern parts of the country, with the low-pressure system expected to bring cooler temperatures months before the official start of winter. The heavy rains caused water to cascade off cliffs and rocks, forming pools and mini waterfalls, while also raising concerns about potential rockfalls. Authorities have repeatedly warned motorists and pedestrians to avoid mountainous areas during such unstable weather conditions, emphasizing the risks of property damage, injuries, and even fatalities. The UAE’s mountainous regions, typically arid, have been significantly impacted by the unseasonal weather, highlighting the need for caution and preparedness.
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Up to 20% off: 72-hour flash sale on Jazeera Airways flights
Jazeera Airways has unveiled an enticing 72-hour flash sale, offering travelers up to 20% off on flights across its extensive network. This exclusive promotion, available from October 21 to 23, 2025, can be accessed through the airline’s website, mobile app, or call center. To take advantage of the discount, passengers must use the promo code ‘J9SALE20’ during booking. Additionally, those booking via the website or app will receive an extra 5kg of complimentary luggage. Travel dates for this offer span from November 1 to December 17, 2025, making it an ideal opportunity for winter vacations, family reunions, or year-end excursions. Paul Carroll, Chief Commercial Officer of Jazeera Airways, emphasized the airline’s commitment to providing value and convenience during the winter season, encouraging passengers to explore new destinations or reconnect with loved ones. With seats limited and subject to availability, travelers are advised to book early to secure their preferred dates. This flash sale underscores Jazeera Airways’ dedication to delivering affordable and seamless travel experiences.
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Inside UAE shelter offering second chance to women rescued from human trafficking rings
In the United Arab Emirates, a beacon of hope shines for women who have fallen victim to human trafficking. Lured by false promises of stable jobs and a better life, many women arrive in the UAE only to find themselves trapped in exploitative situations. Stripped of their freedom and subjected to physical and emotional abuse, these women are often left traumatized and in desperate need of help. When identified through police investigations, public prosecution, or the national hotline, victims are transferred to specialized shelters like the Aman Centre for Women and Children. This facility offers comprehensive care, including medical treatment, psychological support, legal assistance, and vocational training, to help survivors recover and rebuild their lives. Many victims arrive with chronic health issues or injuries resulting from prolonged exploitation. During their stay, they receive counselling and skills training to prepare them for independent living. Once legal proceedings are complete, survivors may choose to remain in the UAE or return home with assistance from the Victim Support Fund, which helps them establish small businesses such as beauty salons, tailoring shops, or grocery stores. Several women who once lived in the shelter have since built sustainable ventures in their home countries. The director of the Aman Centre emphasizes the importance of restoring dignity and independence. “We work to ensure these women can begin new lives here or return home with the skills and confidence to start again,” she said. Beyond addressing human trafficking, the centre also tackles family-related cases involving women and young girls facing educational or social challenges. Through counselling, workshops, and partnerships with private universities, the centre helps families navigate complex issues and improve relationships. The director noted that societal challenges are constantly evolving, requiring institutions like the Aman Centre to adapt and provide relevant guidance. “Social issues change with society, and we must be ready to offer awareness, rehabilitation, and support,” she explained. The centre’s approach is rooted in addressing the root causes of problems to prevent recurrence. “We start with the family because that’s where change begins,” she added. By creating a safe and supportive environment, the Aman Centre continues to empower women and children, helping them recover, rebuild, and regain stability in their lives.
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When ‘John Wick’ star Keanu Reeves had his name changed
In a recent podcast appearance, Hollywood icon Keanu Reeves unveiled a lesser-known chapter from his early career: a brief stint under a different name. The ‘John Wick’ star recounted how his manager once suggested altering his identity to better fit the Hollywood mold. At just 20 years old, fresh from Toronto and new to Los Angeles, Reeves was introduced to the idea of adopting a stage name. ‘I was a professional actor around 16, 17. I ended up doing a movie in Toronto that got me an agent in LA. So, at 20 years old, I drove in my car to Los Angeles, got out of my car, and my manager said, ‘We want to change your name,” Reeves shared, as reported by E! News. Initially puzzled, Reeves entertained the notion, brainstorming possibilities like ‘Chuck Spadina’ and ‘KC Reeves,’ the latter of which he ultimately adopted for his debut film. However, the name change was short-lived. ‘I couldn’t do it. So then I would be in auditions and they would go, ‘KC Reeves.’ And I wouldn’t even answer. Six months later, I was like, ‘I’m not doing this.’ That’s a Hollywood moment,’ Reeves explained. According to Variety, ‘KC Reeves’ was credited in one of his first films, a 1986 made-for-TV movie. On the professional front, Reeves is set to appear in the upcoming comedy ‘Good Fortune,’ directed by Aziz Ansari, which hit UAE cinemas on October 17.
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Abu Dhabi: Natural History Museum to open on November 22 with 67 million-year-old T-rex
Abu Dhabi is gearing up for a cultural extravaganza this winter with the grand opening of the Natural History Museum on November 22, 2025. Located in the vibrant Saadiyat Cultural District, this architectural marvel spans 35,000 square meters and emerges from the waters of Saadiyat Island like a natural rock formation. Designed by the acclaimed firm Mecanoo, the museum’s design mirrors its mission to connect visitors with the natural world and inspire future generations to explore and protect it. The museum promises an immersive journey through 13.8 billion years of Earth’s history, from the Big Bang to the evolution of life, including the rise and fall of dinosaurs. Among its star attractions are ‘Stan,’ a nearly complete Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton; a 25-meter female blue whale specimen; and the Murchison Meteorite, which contains grains older than our solar system. The museum also highlights the Arabian Peninsula’s natural history, featuring discoveries like the extinct Stegotetrabelodon emiratus elephant. Permanent galleries such as The Story of Earth and Resilient Planet, alongside interactive experiences, offer a comprehensive exploration of our planet’s past, present, and future. To celebrate its launch, the museum will host two temporary exhibitions: The March of the Triceratops and the 61st Wildlife Photographer of the Year. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism, Abu Dhabi, emphasized the museum’s role in shaping the emirate’s cultural landscape and fostering scientific knowledge. The Natural History Museum joins other iconic institutions like Louvre Abu Dhabi and the upcoming Zayed National Museum, solidifying Abu Dhabi’s position as a global cultural hub.