The landscape of the Arab world continues to evolve at an impressive pace, with significant developments highlighting the region’s growth across various sectors. From the escalating property boom in Dubai to Saudi Arabia‘s landmark gaming acquisition, this week has been marked by noteworthy stories that shape the future of the Middle East. In this article, discover the most influential Arabs revealed while staying up-to-date with the Dubai property boom, Saudi $55 billion gaming takeover, and UAE Rail progress among other critical highlights you might have missed this week.
REVEALED: The 150 Most Influential Arabs
This week, Arabian Business proudly unveiled its list of the 150 Most Influential Arabs 2025, spotlighting individuals who are actively shaping the future of the Arab world. This year’s list showcases refined criteria that emphasize the influence, reach, and relevance of these leaders, many of whom have made a significant impact beyond regional boundaries.
The Arab world is becoming increasingly significant on the global stage, drawing top talent and record levels of investment, which in turn fuels massive growth across sectors from technology to real estate. This progress is evident not just in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, but throughout the broader Middle East.
Etihad Rail to Connect 11 UAE Cities by 2026 with 57-Minute Dubai–Abu Dhabi Trips
Major strides are being made with Etihad Rail, which is set to link 11 UAE cities by 2026, allowing travelers to journey between Dubai and Abu Dhabi in just 57 minutes. This ambitious project aims to provide safe and efficient passenger services that will enhance national travel.
As the official developer and operator of the UAE’s national railway network, Etihad Rail is on track to revolutionize connectivity across the region, aligning with the UAE’s goal of establishing a fully integrated and high-quality rail system. The initiative aims to cater to the evolving travel demands of passengers while adhering to international standards.
Dubai Launches ‘Employee to Entrepreneur’ Programme to Support Startup Growth
In a move to foster innovation and entrepreneurship, the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ) has introduced the “Employee to Entrepreneur Programme.” This initiative aims to empower employees within DIEZ and affiliated economic zones to launch and grow their own startups.
Aligned with the national campaign “The Emirates: The Startup Capital of the World,” inaugurated by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, this program underscores DIEZ’s commitment to driving economic growth and nurturing a culture of entrepreneurship in Dubai.
Dubai Property Sales Surge by 34% to $121.2bn Amid Growing Opportunities
Dubai’s property market experienced a remarkable surge in sales, climbing 34% to AED 445 billion ($121.2 billion) by August 2025. Firas Al Msaddi, CEO of fäm Properties, noted that investors who hesitated due to fears of a slowdown missed significant opportunities during this period of growth.
“Bidding on reports of a slowing market has resulted in massive opportunity being lost for those who fell for it,” Al Msaddi stated. He emphasized Dubai’s impressive recovery and resilience, saying, “Dubai has bounced back stronger and faster than any other city in the world since the 2009 global financial crisis and the COVID pandemic.” This highlights the market’s potential and sustainability amid a continuously evolving landscape.
Wynn Al Marjan Gears Up for Opening with Casino Manager Recruitment
Wynn Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah is in the spotlight as it initiates a major recruitment campaign ahead of its much-anticipated opening in 2027. With 101 new job openings listed, the resort is seeking a Casino Manager for Table Games Operations—an unprecedented role in the GCC.
The position requires the manager to oversee game integrity, regulatory compliance, and coordination with gaming team members. This recruitment drive exemplifies the increasing prominence of Ras Al Khaimah as a luxury destination and significant player in the UAE’s tourism sector.
Dubai Court Clarifies Property Buyers’ Obligations Regarding Service Fees
In an effort to clarify responsibilities, Dubai’s Rental Disputes Centre has issued a new ruling that requires property buyers to pay service fees once a project is completed, even prior to formal handover. This ruling aims to resolve ongoing disputes between developers and buyers regarding shared cost liabilities.
The decision is grounded in Law No. (6) of 2019 related to Jointly Owned Properties, establishing that either developers or property owners are accountable for covering expenses associated with unsold units, thereby ensuring seamless management and maintenance of communal areas.
Innovative Air Taxi Service Set to Launch Between Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah by 2027
Ras Al Khaimah is set to pioneer the first air taxi service in the UAE, following a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with Joby Aviation and Skyports Infrastructure. This initiative aims to revolutionize travel by significantly reducing travel time to just 15 minutes.
Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, the Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, highlighted that this project not only invests in people’s quality of life but also enhances the emirate’s status as a global hub for tourism, living, and investment.
Abu Dhabi Schools Show Progress: 23 Upgraded to ‘Good’ Status
In a testament to enhancing education quality, Abu Dhabi’s private school sector is under the Department of Education and Knowledge’s (ADEK) diligent oversight. Recent results show 23 schools have elevated their ratings to “Good,” contributing to improved learning outcomes across the emirate.
Through structured action plans and rigorous inspections, ADEK has implemented targeted interventions to ensure accountability, precise feedback, and necessary corrections. The latest Irtiqa’a results are as follows:
- Outstanding: 13 schools rated
- Very Good: 51 schools rated
- Good: 93 schools rated
- Acceptable: 42 schools rated
- Weak: 5 schools rated
Saudi PIF Leads A $55bn Takeover of Electronic Arts in Landmark Deal
In a historic move, Electronic Arts has finalized an agreement to be acquired by a consortium led by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), alongside Silver Lake and Affinity Partners. This all-cash transaction values the gaming giant at approximately $55 billion, making it the largest gaming deal globally.
Under the deal, the consortium will obtain 100% ownership of EA, with PIF retaining its previous 9.9% stake. Stockholders are set to receive $210 per share, representing a 25% premium to EA’s stock price of $168.32. This acquisition marks a significant milestone in the gaming industry and highlights the strategic interests of Saudi Arabia in expanding its presence within the global gaming market.
Dubai Real Estate Market Rises to $14.8bn in September 2025
The Dubai property sector continued its positive trend in September 2025, with sales transactions reaching 20,127, marking an 11.3% increase from September 2024. The total sales value hit AED 54.3 billion ($14.8 billion), growing by 21.2% year-over-year.
Among the sales, apartments accounted for 17,112 transactions valued at AED 31.8 billion ($8.7 billion), while commercial properties saw 514 sales totaling AED 1.5 billion ($408 million).
This data highlights the ongoing momentum and resilience of Dubai’s real estate market, illustrating its strong appeal to investors in a rapidly evolving landscape.