This week has been filled with crucial updates that affect many aspects of life in the UAE. From the announcement of the next UAE holiday dates to advancements in Emirates ID services and the booming tourism industry in Dubai, alongside a comprehensive real estate tax analysis, there’s much to discuss. Here are the top ten stories you might have missed this week, highlighting vital information for residents and businesses alike.
In the realm of hospitality, Dubai continues to flourish, achieving hotel occupancy rates exceeding 81%. New transport regulations for tourists and updated policies for private schools have also been introduced. In the real estate sector, the UAE’s proptech startup PRYPCO secured notable funding from General Catalyst, while the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced the completion of 103 kilometers of new roads to enhance travel efficiency across the emirate.
Let’s explore these stories in detail and catch up on the ten most significant developments this week, curated by the Arabian Business editorial team.
Final UAE holiday of 2025 revealed
For employees in the UAE, there is one last public holiday to look forward to this year.
After the observance of Prophet Muhammed’s (PBUH) birthday on Friday, September 5, the next public holiday will be an exciting break to celebrate National Day on December 2-3. This holiday is granted to both public and private sector employees and promises a festive atmosphere across the country.
Emirates Skywards launches Premium Economy flight rewards for 35 million members
Emirates Skywards has rolled out enticing flight rewards designed specifically for Premium Economy travelers. This initiative allows the program’s 35 million members to redeem Skywards Miles for both Classic Rewards and Upgrade Rewards available in all Emirates Premium Economy cabins.
In this new structure, members can purchase full flight tickets in the Premium Economy cabin, starting from just 15,000 Miles for a one-way journey. Additionally, upgrades from Economy to Premium Economy can now be requested beginning at 7,020 Miles for a one-way trip.
UAE real estate tax rules explained
In a significant update, tax advisory firm Dhruva has expressed support for a newly introduced UAE corporate tax regulation allowing a 4 percent annual depreciation on investment properties assessed at fair value. This policy is expected to enhance the appeal of real estate investments as the UAE’s corporate tax landscape evolves.
This progressive measure, effective from 2025, is anticipated to significantly boost the local real estate industry.
UAE announces 1-step renewal and replacement for Emirates ID
A notable enhancement in public service comes with the introduction of a streamlined, one-step renewal and replacement process for Emirates ID cards. This initiative, launched by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security, is part of the ongoing Zero Bureaucracy Programme.
As part of this simplified procedure, applicants will only need to submit their request and pay the associated fees. The system will then automatically establish the validity period based on the individual’s age, replicating the approach used by the UAE passport system.
UAE proptech startup PRYPCO secures major funding from General Catalyst for real estate innovation
PRYPCO, a promising proptech firm based in the UAE, has secured significant funding through a Pre-Series A round led by General Catalyst. This marks General Catalyst’s first venture into the PropTech sector within the Middle East.
Founded in 2022 by Amira Sajwani, PRYPCO aims to create a comprehensive platform for real estate investment, financing, and ownership.
Dubai builds 103 kilometers of new roads across 8 districts to slash travel times
In an impressive infrastructure initiative, Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has completed a total of 103 kilometers of new roads across eight districts, including Al Khawaneej 2 (Tolerance District) and Jebel Ali Industrial Area 1. Additional projects are underway in six more residential areas to enhance connectivity and safety.
Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of the RTA, remarked, “The construction of internal road projects in residential areas responds to the directives of our leadership to develop and enhance infrastructure in residential communities, in order to meet the needs of Dubai’s urban and population growth, improve quality of life, and promote the happiness and wellbeing of residents.”
Dubai hotel occupancy climbs above 81% as international visitors reach 10 million
In the first half of 2025, Dubai’s hotel occupancy rates surged to an impressive 81%, reflecting a year-on-year increase of 4.5%. Concurrently, the number of international visitors surged by 6.1%, reaching nearly 10 million from January to June, as per research conducted by the real estate advisory group Cavendish Maxwell.
The average daily rate (ADR) for accommodation rose to AED745, which marks a 5.5% increase compared to the same period last year. Notably, Dubai is set to open 19 new establishments, which will add over 5,000 hotel rooms by the end of 2025, diversifying the emirate’s inventory to 157,144 keys across 748 hotels.
10 business secrets of the world’s richest billionaires every executive must know in 2025
The combined net worth of the world’s ten richest billionaires exceeds a staggering $2.2 trillion, accumulated through various businesses. While technology dominates the list—with founders from industry giants like Microsoft, Google, and Facebook—there’s also significant representation from the investment and retail sectors.
What differentiates these billionaires from other entrepreneurs is their elite business acumen. From humble beginnings in bedrooms and garages, they have steadily transformed their ventures into global powerhouses.
Insights shared by these magnates reveal key strategies utilized throughout their illustrious careers, offering invaluable lessons for executives aiming to thrive in 2025.
Dubai introduces strict new teacher rules for private schools
In a move to enhance educational quality, Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) has launched two new technical guides aimed at improving accountability and staffing practices in the private education sector. The guides outline stringent standards for recruitment, conduct, and accountability among teaching staff.
This initiative aligns with the emirate’s Education 33 (E33) Strategy, which places student wellbeing and high educational quality at its core while transforming the education sector.
Dubai announces new rules to boost tourist transport
This week, Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), in partnership with the Department of Economy and Tourism, has established new Executive Regulations aimed at enhancing tourist transport services in the emirate. The regulations stem from Administrative Decision No. (97) of 2025 and Executive Council Resolution No. (107) of 2023.
The new framework seeks to cultivate a comprehensive tourist transport system that further solidifies Dubai’s reputation as a premier local and international destination.