This week brought significant updates on various economic and lifestyle developments in the UAE, including anticipated changes to petrol prices, emerging real estate hotspots in Dubai, investment advice for aspiring millionaires, and information on upcoming holidays. These highlights reflect the rapidly evolving landscape in the Gulf region and point to strategic opportunities for residents and investors alike. Discover the top ten stories you may have missed, as curated by Arabian Business editors, covering UAE petrol prices, real estate trends, millionaire investment strategies, and essential leave guidelines for 2026.
UAE Petrol Prices Set to Change for July 2025
The UAE is poised to announce changes to petrol prices for July 2025 shortly. For the past three months, petrol prices have remained largely stable, following two months of a freeze on fuel costs at the pump.
While prices have remained unchanged recently, filling a tank is significantly more affordable compared to a year ago, with various fuel categories becoming increasingly budget-friendly despite fluctuations over the past twelve months.
New Credit Card Regulations Announced in Saudi Arabia
The Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) has introduced updated regulations concerning credit cards. The revised rules aim to enhance transparency and reduce costs for consumers and will be effective within the next 30 to 90 days.
As part of these regulations, credit card issuers will need to inform customers about any fee changes via SMS, allowing clients to cancel their agreements within fourteen days of notification. Notably, e-wallet top-ups using credit cards will no longer incur additional fees. Moreover, new fee structures for cash withdrawals now cap at 3% for amounts under SR2,500.
Instant Credit Score Access for Dubai Residents
Residents of Dubai can now conveniently check their credit scores and reports directly through the DubaiNow app, thanks to a collaboration with the Etihad Credit Bureau. This integration enables users to access their credit information in real-time with ease, enhancing financial planning and accessibility.
The DubaiNow app offers over 300 services from both governmental and private sector entities. With this new feature, users can log in and instantly view their credit insights, promoting informed financial decisions and streamlined access to essential personal data.
UAE Real Estate: Six Hotspots Offering Attractive Returns
The UAE’s real estate market has been thriving, recording transactions amounting to over AED 239 billion (approximately $65 billion) in the first quarter of 2024, according to official statistics.
Real estate consultancy Whitewill has pinpointed six prime locations that are drawing investor interest this summer. Their analysis suggests that projects emphasizing lifestyle, strategic location, and financial returns are taking center stage in the market.
Indian Aces 2025: Spotlight on Influential Indian Business Leaders in the Gulf
The Indian business community continues to play a vital role in the United Arab Emirates’ economic development. Many entrepreneurs, executives, and visionaries included in the Indian Aces 2025 power list have redefined industries across the region.
Spanning retail, healthcare, technology, and construction, these leaders are paving the way for entrepreneurial innovation that underpins the UAE’s economic fabric.
Understanding Property Tokenization in Dubai: Ownership Made Accessible
Dubai has launched an innovative government-backed platform allowing investors to own fractions of the city’s flourishing real estate market for just AED 2,000. This approach provides a new paradigm of ownership through the digitization of property via tokens.
Tokenization aims to make real estate investments quicker, more flexible, and more accessible, all while operating within a regulated blockchain framework, transforming the landscape of property acquisition within the emirate.
Ajman’s New Work-Life Balance Initiative: Remote Fridays and Shortened Hours
Ajman has rolled out an initiative aimed at enhancing work-life balance for government employees. The “Balanced Summer” program promotes family cohesion and environmental sustainability during the warmer months.
Officially approved by the Ajman Executive Council, the program allows for a fully remote work model every Friday from July 1 to August 22, 2025. Additionally, the working hours from Monday to Thursday will be adjusted to seven hours, operating from 7:30 AM to 2:30 PM across all government entities.
Anticipated Dates for Ramadan and Eid 2026 in the UAE
The Emirates Astronomy Society has announced the expected dates for Ramadan 2026 in the UAE. Ramadan is projected to commence on February 18, 2026, with Eid Al Fitr likely to be celebrated on March 20 and Eid Al Adha on May 27.
Ibrahim Al Jarwan, chairman of the Emirates Astronomy Society, detailed the anticipated timings for holidays and events throughout the coming year.
Financial Insights: Building Millionaire Status in the UAE
The UAE’s dynamic wealth creation environment has contributed to one of the fastest-growing populations of millionaires in the world. Financial experts have unveiled specific strategies for building seven-figure wealth in the region.
With zero personal income tax, full foreign ownership rules, and a booming $817 billion non-oil trade sector, the UAE has become an attractive hub for entrepreneurs and investors aiming to achieve millionaire status.
What is the financial commitment required to save AED 1 million in the UAE?
The UAE Leave Guide 2025: A Comprehensive Overview
This year, UAE workers can enjoy a public holiday on Friday, June 27, marking the Islamic New Year, providing many with a long weekend. But are you aware that there are nine recognized types of leave you’re entitled to in the UAE?
This guide outlines everything from annual leave and sick leave to study breaks and maternity support, ensuring you are well-informed about your entitlements under UAE Labour Law in 2025.