The UAE’s retail market is expected to reach AED 200 billion by next year. Analysis by the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry projects that it will also grow by an average of 5% each year. Consumer spending is anticipated to continue rising, with total spending of over AED 750 million across many categories by 2017. According to national news agency WAM, retail and wholesale trade accounts for more than 11% of the UAE’s GDP.
UAE–South Korea CEPA comes into force on May 1
The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the UAE and South Korea will officially enter into force on May 1, 2026.
Meraas awards AED 2.4 billion in construction contracts for 'The Acres'
Meraas, a member of Dubai Holding Real Estate, has awarded AED 2.4 billion in main construction contracts for new phases of its flagship villa developments, The Acres and The Acres Estates, in Dubailand.
Bangladesh set to sign Boeing jet deal, shifting from Airbus
Bangladesh is set to sign a deal on Thursday to buy 14 aircraft from US planemaker Boeing, officials said, a move that marks a shift away from Europe's Airbus amid trade pressure from Washington.
UAE Circular Economy Council focuses on food security, sustainable growth
The UAE Circular Economy Council held its first meeting of 2026 on Wednesday, with discussions centred on strengthening food security, expanding sustainable production, and increasing investment in circular economy sectors.
UAE announces decision to withdraw from OPEC and OPEC+
The United Arab Emirates announced on Tuesday its decision to exit the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC and OPEC+), effective 1 May 2026.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced a travel ban for UAE citizens to Iran, Lebanon and Iraq, citing current regional developments.
The UAE's Attorney-General, Dr. Hamad Saif Al Shamsi, has ordered the referral of 13 defendants and six UAE-registered companies to the Abu Dhabi Federal Court of Appeal (State Security Court) on charges of illicit trafficking in military materiel, forgery and money laundering.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has honoured the winners of the 'Erth Dubai Awards', recognising their contributions to preserving the emirate’s cultural and social heritage.
