This week in the UAE has been bustling with significant news, from exciting developments regarding the UAE Eid holiday plan to new regulations in Oman and major announcements from Disney. With the Dubai real estate market breaking records and updates on job localization, now is the perfect time to catch up on the highlights. Here are the ten notable stories you may have missed this week, including information about the UAE Eid holiday plan and Oman’s employment rules.
UAE Eid Al Adha 2025: Maximize Your Time Off
For those eagerly anticipating the UAE Eid holiday plan, workers can look forward to four days off for Eid Al Adha in 2025. By strategically using just three days of annual leave, employees can enjoy a remarkable nine consecutive days off. The holidays will encompass Arafat Day, falling on the ninth of Dhul Hijja, followed closely by the Eid festivities from the 10th to the 12th of the month. With careful planning, UAE workers can extend their holiday and make the most of this festive period.
Oman Implements New Employment Regulations
In a significant move to boost national employment, Oman has unveiled new job regulations aimed at increasing the presence of Omani citizens in the private sector. Under the new Omanisation initiative, businesses that fail to hire Omani nationals within the first year must submit a detailed employment plan upon notification. The Ministry of Labour has emphasized the need for statutory compliance and has introduced incentives to encourage firms to prioritize hiring local talents. This strategic shift aims to balance the sustainability of businesses with the necessity of local workforce integration.
Dubai Metro Station Gets a New Name
In transportation news, the Dubai Metro is undergoing a rebranding initiative with the UAE Exchange Metro Station being renamed to Life Pharmacy Metro Station. This change is part of a ten-year agreement with the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and aims to enhance branding and partnerships within the metro system. The arrangement, formalized between Life Pharmacy Group and Hypermedia, reflects ongoing efforts to modernize and optimize public transport stations across Dubai.
Sharjah Introduces New Leave Policies
In Sharjah, a newly approved leave policy aims to support gender equality in the workplace. The “Care Leave” initiative provides female employees with additional leave after maternity for those who give birth to sick or disabled children necessitating constant care. This policy exemplifies Sharjah’s commitment to enhancing support for working mothers and aligns with broader initiatives that promote family welfare within the UAE.
DMCC Expands Business Licensing Options
Dubai’s DMCC has introduced two new business license categories to streamline the establishment of companies in the region. These new licenses provide flexibility for businesses looking to manage their assets without the burden of required physical office spaces. The initiative reflects Dubai’s commitment to catering to evolving corporate needs and positions the city as a dynamic hub for international business activities.
Disney to Build Theme Park in Abu Dhabi
A thrilling announcement from Disney revealed plans for a new theme park on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi. This project, part of a strategic partnership between The Walt Disney Company and Miral, promises to add to the vibrant entertainment offerings in the emirate. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, marked the occasion with the official unveiling of the project, further solidifying Abu Dhabi’s status as a premier leisure destination.
UAE Clarifies Tax Regulations for Real Estate Investors
The UAE’s Federal Tax Authority has released important clarifications regarding tax regulations applicable to real estate investors. Specifically, investors in Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) who qualify as “Qualified Funds” are exempt from Corporate Tax. This guidance provides clarity on tax obligations, including applicable income subject to taxing bodies and compliance requirements for both the REITs and their investors.
UAE Banks Boost Real Estate Demand
In further developments, UAE banks are pivotal in stimulating the property market with competitive mortgage rates that now fall below the Central Bank’s benchmark. Some institutions are offering rates below 4%, spurring domestic and international interest in residential real estate. With strengthening foreign currencies against the dirham, properties in Dubai are becoming increasingly appealing, prompting a notable surge in demand.
UAE Schools to Incorporate AI into Curriculum
In an effort to equip students with critical skills for the future, the UAE Ministry of Education has announced that AI will be included as a mandatory subject starting from the 2025-2026 academic year. This decision reflects the UAE’s commitment to fostering innovation and preparing its young population for emerging technology trends.
Dubai Real Estate Market Hits New Highs
In April, Dubai’s real estate market reached unprecedented heights, achieving sales of AED 62.4 billion ($17 billion), marking a staggering 95.3% increase year-on-year. The data reveals there were 17,979 transactions, making it the third-best month on record for sales volume. As the market continues to flourish, it highlights the booming demand and investment potential within Dubai, reinforcing its global status in real estate.