Dubai, UAE – In a groundbreaking move to transform urban mobility, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) of Dubai has signed a strategic partnership with Baidu, one of China’s leading tech companies, to initiate trials for autonomous taxis in the city.
This collaboration aims to roll out 50 self-driving vehicles in the coming months, with plans for a full-scale public launch of autonomous taxi services by 2026. The vehicles will be a part of Baidu’s innovative Apollo Go service, which has already seen success in various cities across China.
The trial phase will provide crucial data and performance metrics to fine-tune the autonomous vehicle technology, ensuring a smooth and safe transition for future passengers. Dubai is set to expand its fleet of self-driving taxis to 1,000 vehicles within the next three years.
Baidu’s Apollo Go service, renowned for its advanced safety features and reliability, will be integral in this ambitious project. With a proven track record in China, Apollo Go aims to bring smart mobility solutions to cities worldwide, starting with Dubai.
Mattar Al Tayer, Director General of the RTA, highlighted that the partnership with Baidu aligns perfectly with Dubai’s Smart Self-Driving Transport Strategy, a bold initiative that aims to convert 25% of all trips in the emirate to autonomous journeys by 2030. This initiative is a key part of Dubai’s vision to become a global leader in self-driving technology and sustainable urban mobility.
By embracing autonomous vehicles, Dubai is setting the stage for a future where self-driving taxis could become a regular feature of city life. The collaboration with Baidu represents a significant milestone in the emirate's pursuit of cutting-edge transportation technologies and its commitment to innovation.
As the project moves into the trial phase, Dubai residents and visitors can expect to see the first self-driving taxis in operation soon. With the goal of expanding the fleet significantly in the next few years, Dubai is positioning itself as a global hub for autonomous mobility.
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As UAE residents plan their summer getaways to Europe, many may be caught off guard by a new expense: European tourist taxes. These fees, often added as “eco contributions” or “sustainability levies,” are increasingly appearing on hotel bills and even as entry charges for day visitors.
Experts warn that these hidden charges could add Dh480 or more to a family’s vacation budget. From hotel stays to cruise port visits, popular European cities such as Venice, Barcelona, and Rome are applying taxes to help manage overtourism and fund environmental protection.
Hotel guests, day-trippers, and cruise passengers may all be subject to different local taxes.
Common terms include: eco tax, clean air fee, sustainability charge, and sojourn fee.
Fees vary by city and are often not included in initial bookings.
Travellers are advised to research local tax policies before booking to avoid surprises.
Local governments argue that the revenue supports infrastructure maintenance and helps reduce the environmental toll of mass tourism. However, the lack of transparency around these taxes has raised concerns among tourists.
To avoid unexpected costs, UAE residents are encouraged to check local tourism websites or hotel booking platforms for up-to-date tax details at their destinations.
Here's a breakdown of some of the unexpected tourist taxes in Europe:
Venice, Italy: The City Access Fee, also known as a Day Visitor Tax, applies even to those not staying overnight. It costs Dh24 per person per day.
Balearic Islands, Spain: A Sustainable Tourism Tax is in place, ranging from Dh4.87 to Dh19.4 per night.
Barcelona, Spain: Visitors face a Tourism Tax, and cruise passengers pay a supplement. The tourism tax is Dh13.4 per night, and the cruise supplement is Dh14.6.
Ljubljana, Slovenia: An Environmental Surcharge, collected through hotels, is approximately Dh9.7 per night.
Amsterdam, Netherlands: Toeristenbelasting applies, and there's an additional charge related to air quality. The hotel tax is 7% of the room rate.
Dubrovnik, Croatia: A Sojourn Tax contributes to general tourist infrastructure, costing around Dh.7.31 per night
Vienna, Austria: A Local Levy (Ortstaxe) for tourism promotion and maintenance is 3.2 per cent of the room rate
Paris, France: The Taxe de Séjour varies with hotel star rating, ranging from Dh4.87 to Dh24.3 per night
Santorini, Greece: A Stayover Tax is tiered by accommodation rating, from Dh2.4 to Dh19.4 per night
Reykjavik, Iceland: An Accommodation Tax for a government tourism fund costs Dh 8.4 to Dh 16.86
Portugal (Lisbon, Porto): A Municipal Tourism Tax for local development is Dh9.7 per night
Rome, Italy: The Tourist Contribution varies by accommodation category, from Dh14.6 to Dh34.1 per night
Switzerland (Zermatt): The Kurtaxe covers air, view, and tourism costs, even for mountain huts, and ranges from Dh9.74 to Dh17.05
Germany (Cologne, Berlin): A City Tax or Culture Tax for local culture, museums, and events is 5 per cent of the room rate
Malta: The Eco Contribution for environmental protection is Dh2.44 per night, with a maximum of Dh24.3.
Source: Gulf News
The 'hair-flipping' dance - Ayyala, is a cultural performance by young Emirati girls, both rich in symbolism that express the nation’s heritage, unity, and hospitality. A cultural expert explained to Gulf News the significance of these traditions and their role in honouring guests and celebrating Emirati identity with dignity and respect.
The 'hair-flipping' dance - Ayyala, is a cultural performance by young Emirati girls, both rich in symbolism that express the nation’s heritage, unity, and hospitality. A cultural expert explained to Gulf News the significance of these traditions and their role in honouring guests and celebrating Emirati identity with dignity and respect.
Dubai: When US President Donald Trump arrived in the UAE, marking the first visit by a sitting US president in 17 years, he was received by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and welcomed with a traditional Emirati cultural performance.
One of the most striking moments of the ceremony was the traditional dance performed by young Emirati girls, during which they rhythmically tossed their hair back and forth.
This cultural display sparked curiosity online, with many people around the world keen to understand the nature and significance of the tradition.
Ahmed Bel Jafflah, senior presenter and protocol manager at the Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU), explained to Gulf News the symbolism and importance of the dances performed.
“The traditional performances of the UAE, such as the Ayyala dance and the local hair dance by girls referred to as Naa’shaat, are powerful expressions of the country’s cultural identity and values. The Ayyala, performed by men in two rows, is a symbol of unity, pride, and heritage – recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. It is more than just a performance, it is woven into the social fabric of Emirati life,” Jafflah said
Source: Gulf News
American President Donald Trump says he would like to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin “as soon as we can set it up”, during a business roundtable in Abu Dhabi on Friday.
“Let’s see what happens with Russia and Ukraine” Trump said referencing the Russia-Ukraine peace talks taking place in Turkiye.
The US president also told reporters his administration would have the situation in Gaza “taken care of” stating: “We’re looking at Gaza, and we are going to get that taken care of. A lot of people are starving”.
Wrapping up his Gulf tour, Trump said he had secured over $1.4 trillion in investment pledges from Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
The President now intends to return to the US to meet his newborn grandchild. Describing his tour as “incredible”, he said: “now it’s time to go back home. My daughter had a baby and I am going home to see that baby.”
Source: Arab News
The world’s top five tech giants—Alphabet, Amazon, Apple, Meta, and Microsoft—reported massive earnings and profits in the latest fiscal year. Collectively, these companies generated a revenue of approximately USD 1.887 trillion and a combined profit of around USD 403 billion.
Among the five, Amazon posted the highest revenue of USD 637 billion. However, Alphabet, the parent company of Google, earned the highest profit, totaling USD 100 billion.
Apple recorded a revenue of USD 391 billion and a profit of USD 94 billion. Microsoft followed with USD 245 billion in revenue and USD 88 billion in profit.
Although Meta earned the lowest revenue among the five—USD 164 billion—its profit stood at USD 62 billion, surpassing Amazon in profitability.
These tech giants operate several well-known subsidiaries, playing a major role in their overall business models.
Alphabet: Google, YouTube, Waymo
Amazon: Audible, Twitch, Amazon Web Services (AWS)
Apple: Beats
Meta: Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Reality Labs
Microsoft: Azure, GitHub, LinkedIn, Xbox
Analysts believe the surge in revenue and profit stems from strategic investments in artificial intelligence (AI), cloud services, and digital advertising. With emerging technologies like AI and the metaverse gaining ground, these companies are expected to see continued growth in the near future.
Source: Data compiled from Wikipedia — Big Five tech companies.
President Donald Trump will head to the UAE on Thursday after visiting Qatar on Wedesday where was greeted with more pomp and ceremony on the second stop of his Middle East tour.
The White House said that Trump and Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani signed agreements that would “generate an economic exchange worth at least $1.2 trillion”.
The agreements are said to include a $96bn deal with Qatar Airways to buy up to 210 Boeing 787 Dreamliner and 777X aeroplanes, and a statement of intent for $38bn in investments at Qatar’s Al Udeid Airbase and other air defence capabilities.
A meeting is scheduled for later today of US, Turkish and Syrian officials to discuss details of Trump’s announced dropping of sanctions against Syria.
Trump’s three-country tour of the Gulf state region will conclude in the United Arab Emirates on Thursday.
Source: Aljazeera
As the United Arab Emirates (UAE) continues to position itself as a global hub for talent, innovation, and sustainability, it has expanded its prestigious Golden Visa program to include seven new professional categories. These updates, announced between late 2024 and early 2025, present outstanding opportunities for skilled professionals across a wide spectrum of industries.
The UAE Golden Visa is a 10-year renewable residency permit that allows recipients to live, work, and study in the UAE without the need for a local sponsor. It also provides numerous benefits such as:
Extended stay outside the UAE without losing residency (over 6 months allowed)
Sponsorship of family members, including spouses and children
Self-sponsorship for entrepreneurs, professionals, and creatives
Let’s explore the 7 new professions now eligible and the unique opportunities they present:
Educators in Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah working in private-sector schools can now apply for the Golden Visa. The program honors their contributions to improving educational quality and supporting students.
Eligibility Criteria:
Minimum 3 years of employment in the emirate
An advanced degree in a relevant field
Demonstrated positive impact on school performance
This move aligns with the UAE’s strategic goal of becoming a regional education leader.
On International Nurses Day 2024, Dubai announced Golden Visas for nurses employed by Dubai Health who have served for over 15 years.
This decision not only acknowledges their unwavering service but also helps address the growing demand for skilled healthcare professionals in the region.
Eligibility Criteria:
Employment with Dubai Health
Minimum 15 years of continuous service
Under Abu Dhabi’s Golden Quay initiative, luxury yacht owners and maritime industry executives can now secure long-term residency.
Eligibility Criteria:
Ownership of a private yacht measuring 40 meters or more
Senior stakeholders in the yachting and maritime industries
This initiative supports Abu Dhabi’s efforts to become a regional hub for luxury marine tourism and investment.
Dubai is now offering Golden Visas to eSports professionals, gaming developers, content creators, and other related talent under the culture and arts category.
Eligibility Criteria:
Minimum age: 25 years
Proven expertise in the gaming industry (player, developer, or influencer)
This initiative boosts Dubai’s ambition to become a leading destination for digital entertainment and eSports.
In April 2024, Dubai extended the Golden Visa to religious scholars, including imams, preachers, muezzins, muftis, and religious researchers who have dedicated over 20 years to community service.
Eligibility Criteria:
Minimum 20 years of religious service in Dubai
The move honors long-serving religious leaders and upholds the UAE’s commitment to religious tolerance and respect.
Dubai launched a dedicated support system for digital creatives through Creators HQ in early 2025. The Golden Visa now extends to:
Social media influencers
Digital content creators
Podcasters
Visual artists
Creative professionals in media, advertising, music, fashion, and more
This opens doors for local and international creators to grow their brands in one of the world’s most connected and forward-thinking cities.
In line with its sustainability vision, the UAE introduced the Blue Visa—a special 10-year residency for environmental advocates. Though named differently, it offers the same benefits as the Golden Visa.
Eligibility Criteria:
Outstanding contributions to environmental protection and sustainability
Recognized activists, researchers, NGO members, award winners, and industry leaders
This visa promotes eco-leadership and positions the UAE as a center for climate action and sustainability research.
With these new additions, the UAE is not just rewarding service and skill—it is strategically investing in talent that aligns with its national priorities:
Education and healthcare
Sustainable tourism and investment
Digital innovation and creative industries
Environmental stewardship
If you’re a professional in any of these fields, this is a golden opportunity—literally and figuratively—to build your future in one of the most dynamic and globally connected countries in the world.
Each emirate has its own application process and criteria. To begin, you can:
Visit the UAE Golden Visa Portal
Check with relevant local authorities (e.g., Dubai Culture, Ras Al Khaimah Education Authority, Abu Dhabi Maritime)
Dubai, UAE – May 13, 2025 — In a bold step toward embracing digital innovation, Dubai has announced plans to allow residents and businesses to pay for government services using cryptocurrency. This landmark initiative positions the emirate as the first government globally to implement widespread crypto payments for public services.
The move was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the Dubai Department of Finance (DOF) and global digital asset platform Crypto.com during the Dubai FinTech Summit 2025.
Under the agreement, users will be able to pay government service fees using stablecoins and other supported cryptocurrencies via the Crypto.com app. The platform will convert the crypto payments into UAE dirhams (AED) in real time before transferring the funds to DOF accounts, ensuring price stability and regulatory compliance.
“This isn’t just a new payment method—it’s a step toward a sustainable and inclusive digital financial ecosystem,” said Ahmad Ali Meftah, Executive Director of Central Accounts at DOF.
The initiative is part of the Dubai Cashless Strategy, which aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33. The strategy aims to shift over 90% of government and private sector transactions to digital or non-cash formats by 2026.
Officials estimate that a successful transition could generate more than AED 8 billion annually for the local economy by reducing cash-handling costs, improving efficiency, and supporting fintech development.
The crypto payments will be processed through Crypto.com, a platform licensed by Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA). Using stablecoins tied to fiat currencies helps reduce the volatility typically associated with digital assets.
“We’re proud to work with the Dubai government on this pioneering project,” said Mohammed Al Hakim, President of Crypto.com UAE. “It’s a full-scale, real-world application of regulated digital assets—not a pilot or trial.”
Once launched, this payment model will allow customers to:
Pay government fees using supported cryptocurrencies.
Enjoy instant currency conversion with full transparency.
Conduct transactions securely through a regulated platform.
While other countries have explored crypto taxation or tested limited blockchain solutions, Dubai’s implementation marks the world’s first full integration of crypto into government fee collection infrastructure.
The agreement was signed in the presence of senior government officials, including Abdulla Al Basti, Secretary General of the Executive Council of Dubai, and Abdulrahman Al Saleh, Director General of DOF, who emphasized the emirate’s commitment to innovation and financial leadership.
Dubai, UAE – May 2025:
The US Embassy and Consulate in the UAE have announced a temporary suspension of certain visa-related services from May 15 to May 29, 2025, due to the transition to a new service provider for managing visa appointments and payments.
During this period, new visa appointments and application fee payments will not be accepted. The existing visa platform will be offline as the embassy prepares to launch an upgraded system that promises improved user experience and streamlined processing.
May 15: The current system stops accepting new appointments and payments.
May 19: Final date for scheduling interviews using the old system.
May 24: Last day for submitting documents at drop-off locations.
May 30: Launch of the new visa application platform.
If you already have an appointment:
No action is needed. Your appointment remains valid, and you should attend as scheduled.
If you’ve paid the visa fee but haven’t scheduled an appointment:
Schedule your interview before May 19 via ais.usvisa-info.com.
If you haven’t started your visa application:
It’s highly recommended to complete payment and schedule an appointment immediately, as the system will not process new transactions after May 15.
If you need to send documents to the Consular Section:
Ensure you submit your paperwork to an authorised location before May 24.
For emergency visa requests—such as medical needs, urgent business travel, or family emergencies—applicants can request expedited appointments by contacting:
📧 Abu Dhabi: [email protected]
📧 Dubai: [email protected]
Starting May 30, the new system will allow applicants to:
Access visa information
Pay application fees
Book and reschedule appointments
Register for passport/document delivery
The update aims to provide a faster, more efficient, and user-friendly experience for visa applicants in the UAE.
The temporary disruption is a necessary step in modernizing the US visa application process in the UAE. Visa applicants are advised to take timely action to avoid delays and stay informed through official channels.
Abu Dhabi, UAE – May 2025:
Motorists in Abu Dhabi are being reminded of the serious consequences of misusing the hard shoulder for overtaking, with Abu Dhabi Police reaffirming that such actions pose significant safety risks and hinder emergency services.
As part of the ongoing “For Your Comment” awareness campaign, a video clip released by Abu Dhabi Police and the Control and Monitoring Center shows a driver dangerously overtaking from the hard shoulder and failing to maintain a safe distance — a maneuver that could have resulted in a major accident.
According to Article 42 of the UAE Federal Traffic Law, overtaking from the hard shoulder is a serious traffic violation, carrying a fine of Dh1,000 and six black points on the offender’s driving license.
Authorities stressed that the hard shoulder is designated exclusively for emergency vehicles, allowing ambulances, police, and rescue teams to reach accident scenes swiftly. Any misuse of this lane can delay critical medical assistance and endanger more lives.
The Traffic and Patrols Directorate has urged all drivers to adhere to lane discipline and avoid the temptation to bypass traffic through illegal means.
"Using the hard shoulder for overtaking is not just a violation — it’s a threat to everyone on the road," the police emphasized.
Stay Safe. Follow the Rules. Respect Emergency Lanes.
Source: Abu Dhabi Police Official Communication & Federal Traffic Law
Ajman, UAE – May 2025:
In a decisive step to improve road safety and curb motorcycle-related accidents, Ajman Police have implemented a new traffic rule requiring delivery riders to stay in the rightmost lanes while traveling on city roads.
Effective immediately, all delivery motorcycle riders in Ajman are restricted to using only the first and second lanes from the right. The use of the third and fourth (fast) lanes is strictly prohibited for delivery bikers.
🔴 Traffic Violation Penalty:
Motorcyclists found violating this regulation will incur a Dh400 fine, as stipulated under the UAE Federal Traffic Law.
🚨 Smart Monitoring in Place:
To enforce the new lane rule, Ajman Police will leverage advanced monitoring systems, including the "Ajman Dar Al Aman" surveillance network, smart gates, and dedicated patrols. Riders engaging in lane violations or dangerous driving behaviors such as weaving between vehicles will be tracked and penalized accordingly.
📢 Ongoing Safety Campaigns:
This regulation is part of a broader road safety initiative by Ajman Police, which includes awareness programs aimed at delivery companies and motorcyclists. These efforts are designed to promote safe riding practices and reduce accidents involving two-wheelers.
⚠️ Warning Against Risky Behaviors:
Authorities have also issued renewed warnings against unsafe driving habits, including:
Overtaking between vehicles
Driving on road shoulders
Ignoring lane discipline
Failing to maintain a safe following distance
Ajman Police emphasized that any actions endangering other road users will result in strict penalties. They continue to urge all delivery riders to comply with traffic regulations and help build a safer road environment for everyone.
Dubai, UAE – May 8, 2025
Residents of the United Arab Emirates are eagerly awaiting the upcoming Eid Al Adha holidays. Based on current astronomical predictions, Arafat Day is expected to fall on Thursday, June 5, 2025, followed by Eid Al Adha from Friday, June 6 to Sunday, June 8.
If these dates are confirmed, UAE residents could enjoy a four-day weekend, combining the public holidays with the regular Saturday-Sunday weekend. This extended break offers an excellent opportunity for family gatherings, travel, and leisure activities.
It's important to note that Islamic holidays are determined by lunar sightings. The UAE Moon Sighting Committee will officially announce the dates closer to the time, based on the sighting of the Dhu Al Hijjah moon.
Given the tentative dates, residents are advised to plan their holidays accordingly but remain flexible until official announcements are made. Employers and employees should also consider these dates when scheduling work and leave plans.
Stay tuned to Gulf Daily News for the latest updates on Eid Al Adha 2025 and other important events in the UAE.
In a major development for the region's entertainment industry, The Walt Disney Company has officially announced plans to open its first-ever Disney theme park in the Middle East, selecting Yas Island in Abu Dhabi as its location.
The announcement marks a groundbreaking partnership between Disney and Miral, Abu Dhabi’s leading creator of immersive destinations and experiences. The new development will be part of Yas Island’s growing entertainment hub, already home to major attractions like Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World, and SeaWorld Abu Dhabi.
Although full details are yet to be revealed, the Disney park is expected to feature:
Classic Disney attractions and rides
Themed areas inspired by beloved franchises like Frozen, Star Wars, Marvel, and Toy Story
Live shows, parades, and immersive entertainment
Family-friendly accommodations and dining experiences
The project promises to deliver the signature Disney magic while integrating regional cultural elements to provide a uniquely local experience.
The new Disney theme park is expected to:
Attract millions of tourists annually
Create thousands of jobs in construction, operations, and hospitality
Strengthen Abu Dhabi’s status as a world-class entertainment and tourism destination
While an official opening date has not been confirmed, development is slated to begin soon, with updates expected in the coming months. The park will complement Yas Island’s growing portfolio of global attractions, making it one of the largest integrated leisure destinations in the world.
Doha, May 07, 2025 – The ongoing escalation between India and Pakistan has begun to impact international aviation routes, with numerous commercial flights visibly avoiding Pakistani airspace, as shown in the latest live air traffic data from Flightradar24.
In a screenshot taken today, a dense stream of aircraft is clearly rerouted over Iran, the Arabian Sea, and northern India, while a notable gap in flights over Pakistan signals a deliberate bypass of its airspace. The pattern strongly reflects heightened security concerns due to the current military and political tension in the region.
Aviation authorities and commercial airlines often divert flight paths to avoid active conflict zones. Past airspace closures in conflict-affected areas like Ukraine, Syria, and previously Pakistan have set precedence for such rerouting decisions.
Several airlines are believed to be taking longer routes, which may result in flight delays, extended fuel usage, and higher operating costs.
Flights between Europe and Southeast Asia are now being rerouted via Iran, the Gulf, and Central Asia, avoiding the direct west-east corridor through Pakistan.
Major hubs like Dubai, Doha, and Muscat are seeing increased overflight density as traffic diverts around affected airspace.
The tensions, though evolving rapidly, have sparked concerns over regional stability. The Indian and Pakistani governments have yet to comment on any official airspace restrictions, but the real-time flight patterns indicate airlines are taking precautionary measures voluntarily.
