GDRFA Chief: Citizenship by Investment Does Not Affect UAE Residency if Visa Requirements Are Met

Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of Dubai’s GDRFA, stated that acquiring a second citizenship—such as through investment programs in Caribbean or Latin American countries—does not affect a person’s residency status in the UAE. As long as the individual holds a valid visa and complies with immigration regulations, they may continue to legally reside in the country regardless of any new nationality obtained through investment or employment.

He also emphasized that the GDRFA provides a free service for holders of newly acquired investment passports who are planning to immigrate to Europe, the United States, or Canada. A specialized forensic lab operates in Dubai to verify the authenticity of such passports, helping protect applicants from fraud and invalid documents.

At the same time, Al Marri warned that individuals who obtain investment-based passports and intend to immigrate to Western countries must comply with the local visa and immigration requirements. Citizenship acquired through investment does not exempt them from following the entry regulations set by the EU, the United States, or Canada.

#UAEResidency #GDRFA #CitizenshipByInvestment #DubaiVisa #SecondPassport #ImmigrationLaws #AlMarri #TravelRegulations #UAENews #InvestmentCitizenship #ResidencyRights

Chinese cars are conquering the used car market in the UAE: growing trust and rising sales.

The popularity of Chinese brands in the UAE's used car market is rapidly increasing, reflecting shifting consumer preferences and structural changes within the industry. This was reported by Sebastian Fuchs, Managing Director of AutoData Middle East. According to him, Chinese manufacturers are showing steady growth both in terms of sales volumes and in the retention of vehicle residual value.

One brand that particularly stands out is Jetour, whose sales have surged by an impressive 150.4% year-on-year, making it the fourth most popular brand in the UAE. The Jetour X70S STD model reflects a high level of consumer trust, retaining 88% of its value after one year and 82% after three years. This indicates that buyers are increasingly choosing affordable Chinese crossovers as a reliable long-term investment.

According to data from the first quarter of 2025, the highest demand is for vehicles manufactured between 2015 and 2020, priced between AED 10,000 and AED 90,000. Sedans like the Toyota Camry and SUVs such as the Nissan Patrol remain among the top search queries. However, consumer interest is increasingly shifting toward hybrid and electric models — particularly those from Chinese manufacturers, which are entering the used market with extended warranties.

#UAEcars #ChineseCars #Jetour #UsedCarMarket #EVinUAE #AutoDataME #ElectricVehiclesUAE #UsedCarsUAE

The 2025 Boxing World Championship to Be Held in the UAE: IBA Shifts to a New Cycle and Challenges the Olympics

President of the International Boxing Association (IBA), Umar Kremlev, has announced that the next Boxing World Championship will take place in December 2025 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This event is set to become a milestone not only in terms of location but also as part of IBA’s new strategy to position the World Championships as the premier event in international boxing.

Previously held every three years, the World Championships will now follow a two-year cycle, as confirmed by Kremlev. This change is designed to bring the world's top boxers together more frequently and to provide athletes with more opportunities to showcase their talents on a global stage.

Hosting the championship in the UAE reflects IBA’s ambition to globalize the sport. The UAE has already proven itself as a reliable host for major international competitions, and this move is expected to boost regional interest in boxing and further establish the Middle East as a key player in global sports.

As part of its renewed strategic vision, IBA has announced a prize fund of over $80 million through 2028, including multi-million-dollar rewards for both men’s and women’s world championships. The association has also introduced new formats such as the IBA Champions’ Night, expanded youth programs, and increased financial support for national federations.

All of this is taking place amid a continuing standoff with the International Olympic Committee (IOC). In 2023, the IOC officially removed IBA from its list of recognized sports bodies, revoking its right to organize Olympic boxing events. In response, a new governing body — World Boxing — was formed, supported by the IOC and set to oversee boxing at the 2028 Olympics. However, Kremlev remains defiant, stating that the Olympics are becoming "a competition for children," while IBA’s world championships are the true platform for elite-level boxing.

“We are building an ecosystem where athletes have confidence in their future. Boxing must remain independent of political games,” Kremlev said in a recent interview.

Thus, the 2025 World Championship in the UAE is shaping up to be more than just a sporting event — it will be a turning point in the evolution of global boxing, where IBA aims to assert its own standards and reclaim leadership in the sport, regardless of its status with the Olympic movement.

Al Safa Street Expansion in Dubai: New Bridges, Tunnels, and Bike Lanes

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced a major redevelopment project for Al Safa Street. The works will cover a 1.5 km stretch—from the intersection with Sheikh Zayed Road to Al Wasl Street—and aim to enhance transportation accessibility and safety.

Once upgraded, Al Safa Street will feature an additional traffic lane, new sidewalks, and dedicated bicycle paths. Travel time along this segment is expected to drop from 12 to 3 minutes, significantly easing congestion.

The project includes the construction of two bridges and two tunnels totaling over 3 km in length. The first bridge (1,005 meters) will connect Al Wasl Street with Sheikh Zayed Road and Financial Centre Street, with a capacity of up to 6,400 vehicles per hour. The second bridge (360 meters) will link Al Satwa Road to the same directions, accommodating up to 2,800 vehicles per hour.

Additionally, two tunnels are planned. One tunnel (1,005 meters) will connect Sheikh Zayed Road with Al Wasl Street and is designed to handle 3,200 vehicles per hour. The second tunnel (750 meters) will intersect Al Wasl Street and Al Safa Street, with a capacity of up to 6,400 vehicles per hour.

This project is part of a larger RTA initiative announced on June 3, which encompasses Al Safa, Al Wasl, and Umm Suqeim Streets. It includes upgrades to six major intersections, the construction of five tunnels totaling nearly 3.9 km, and the expansion of roads to three lanes in each direction.

The total length of the upgraded corridor will be 15 km. Upon completion, the road capacity is expected to increase from 8,000 to 12,000 vehicles per hour, with average travel time cut in half. The project also includes new pedestrian and public spaces to enhance urban comfort and livability.

Летающие такси в ОАЭ: названа дата испытаний электрического аэротакси

Компания Archer Aviation объявила, что испытательные полёты первого полностью электрического аэротакси Midnight стартуют до конца 2025 года. Об этом заявил генеральный директор компании в ОАЭ доктор Талиб Альхинай в рамках форума Make it in the Emirates. Новый аппарат с вертикальным взлётом и посадкой (eVTOL), рассчитанный на четырёх пассажиров и одного пилота, полностью работает на электричестве и предназначен для устойчивого городского транспорта.

По словам Альхиная, первые полёты будут проходить в незаселённых районах и постепенно продвинутся в черту города. Пока точная дата начала коммерческой эксплуатации не определена — всё зависит от завершения технических и операционных проверок. Midnight оснащён неподвижным крылом и 12 электродвигателями, шесть из которых расположены спереди и могут поворачиваться на угол до 90 градусов, обеспечивая плавный переход от вертикального взлёта к горизонтальному полёту всего за 45 секунд.

Archer Aviation уже открыла завод в Джорджии (США) с мощностью производства до 650 аппаратов в год и планирует увеличить объём до 2400 единиц. Кроме того, компания заключила соглашение с Инвестиционным офисом Абу-Даби о создании исследовательского центра и возможности локального производства в ОАЭ. Подробности будут озвучены позже.

#ArcherAviation #MidnightAirTaxi #ЛетающееТакси #ЭлектрическийТранспорт #БудущееМобильности

Škoda Strengthens Its Presence in the UAE: New Showrooms in Abu Dhabi and Dubai

#SkodaUAE #AutoUAE #NewShowroom #SkodaDubai #EuropeanQuality

In celebration of the Islamic New Year, a special schedule for public transportation

In celebration of the Islamic New Year, a special schedule for public transportation and parking will be in effect in Dubai on Friday, June 27. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced that public parking will be free across all zones, except for multi-level parking terminals. Regular parking fees will resume on Saturday, June 28.

Public transport services will also operate on a revised schedule. Dubai Metro will run from 5:00 AM on Friday until 1:00 AM on Saturday, while the Dubai Tram will operate from 6:00 AM until midnight. All RTA customer service centers will be closed on the holiday, but smart kiosks in Umm Ramool, Deira, Al Barsha, and the main headquarters will remain operational 24/7. Vehicle service centers will also be closed for the day and will reopen on Saturday.

Residents and tourists are advised to check the updated public transport schedule in advance using the RTA or S’hail mobile apps to avoid any inconvenience.

Earlier, UAE authorities officially declared Friday, June 27, a public holiday in honor of Hijri New Year. For employees of federal government entities, the holiday will extend from Friday through Sunday, with the workweek resuming on Monday, June 30.

A New Era of Electric Vehicles in the UAE: Tellus Power MENA to Accelerate Charging Infrastructure Development

The UAE has launched a new company, Tellus Power MENA, aimed at accelerating the development of electric vehicle infrastructure. The project is a joint venture between local investor BinHendi Holding, China's Sing Family Enterprise Group, and California-based Tellus Power. The main objective is to localize the production of advanced EV charging solutions and promote vehicle-to-grid technology across the GCC region.

The creation of Tellus Power MENA reflects the UAE’s growing commitment to the electric vehicle market. In recent years, both the government and private sector have made significant investments in supporting infrastructure — from charging stations to affordable auto loans and EV insurance. The new company will serve as a key technology and manufacturing partner, and its establishment was made possible through the active involvement of the UAE Ministry of Investment.

According to the Ministry, it played a vital role from the inception of the project. Its responsibilities included identifying business partners, conducting thorough due diligence, supporting negotiations, and managing the legal and investment aspects of the deal. The Ministry also facilitated cooperation with government agencies and free zones to ensure smooth and efficient implementation of the initiative.

#EVcharging #TellusPowerMENA #ElectricVehiclesUAE #GreenMobility #VehicleToGrid

Etiquette in Dubai Malls: What You Should Know

Etiquette in Dubai Malls: What You Should Know

Visiting major shopping malls in Dubai — especially on weekends and holidays — requires following certain rules of etiquette. These simple guidelines will help you avoid awkward situations and make the experience more pleasant for both you and others.

📍 Meeting Points & Navigation

If you're going to the mall with friends or family, agree on a specific meeting spot in advance — ideally near a particular entrance or a well-known café. In Dubai Mall, for example, experienced visitors often meet at the nearest café by the entrance or at a specific parking level.

🛒 Everyday Etiquette Tips

1. Stand on the right side of the escalator so people in a hurry can pass on the left. Avoid using your phone while moving.

2. Don’t linger in front of popular attractions like the aquarium — many others are waiting for a turn.

3. Only take a seat in the food court after placing your order.

4. Use digital directories to locate stores or restaurants. It’s a good idea to take a photo of your parking spot.

5. Treat free samples with respect. Don’t change outfits and return multiple times to the tasting stand.

6. Treat free samples with respect. Don’t change outfits and return multiple times to the tasting stand.

7. Respect personal space, even during peak hours. Hold your bag or backpack in your hands to avoid bumping into others.

8. Keep your voice down when talking on the phone, especially near prayer rooms or jewelry boutiques. Speakerphone use is not allowed.

9. Children should behave calmly and follow the rules; parents must supervise them at all times.

10. Dress modestly. Avoid overly revealing or provocative clothing — this applies to everyone, regardless of gender.

💡 By following these guidelines, you’ll show respect for local customs and make your mall visits more enjoyable and stress-free.

Some Airlines Temporarily Suspend Flights to Dubai and Doha Amid Regional Tensions

Several American, European, and Canadian airlines have temporarily halted flights to key Middle Eastern aviation hubs — Dubai and Doha. The decision is linked to rising regional tensions and precautionary measures aimed at ensuring the safety of passengers and crew. Flights to Qatar, the UAE, and Bahrain have been suspended as part of this move.

The measures affect carriers such as American Airlines, United Airlines, Finnair, Air France-KLM, British Airways, and Air Canada. While previous schedule adjustments over recent months targeted specific countries or airspace in the region, this marks the first time major transit hubs have been impacted.

Dubai and Doha remain critical global connection points, linking flights between Europe, Asia, and North America. Airlines will continue to monitor the situation closely and make decisions based on guidance from aviation and governmental authorities.

#MiddleEast #Dubai #InternationalFlights #AirTravel #Geopolitics