The UAE’s weather pattern for the week is expected to remain largely stable but humid, as weak surface pressure systems continue to influence atmospheric conditions across the Emirates. According to the National Center of Meteorology (NCM), an extension of an upper air high-pressure ridge is also contributing to the current weather setup, keeping daytime skies largely fair but giving rise to convective cloud formation in select areas.

The day began on a cool note, with the lowest recorded temperature of 17.5°C observed at Jais Mountain in Ras Al Khaimah at 6:15am, underscoring the seasonal transition into milder conditions in the country’s mountainous regions.

Read more-Cloud seeding in focus as UAE readies for cooler weather

Weather experts anticipate fair to partly cloudy conditions for most of the day, with cloud build-up expected over eastern, northern, and some southern areas, which could result in isolated rainfall due to convective cloud activity. These developments are consistent with transitional season patterns typically observed in the UAE during late October.

While most regions will enjoy stable weather, the increased cloud activity in the eastern and southern parts could lead to short, light rain showers, particularly during the afternoon hours. This is typical for mountainous and interior regions that experience localized heating and updrafts during the day.

Humid nights could bring mist and reduced visibility

Humidity is expected to rise significantly during the night, especially across coastal and inland areas, potentially resulting in mist formation, particularly in western zones. Commuters and early-morning travelers are advised to remain cautious as visibility could be affected during the late-night and early-morning hours.

These nighttime conditions are expected to persist through the week, with high humidity levels ranging between 70 per cent and 90 per cent, a common occurrence during seasonal transitions in the UAE.

Daytime temperatures across the UAE are forecasted to remain within seasonal norms, with some regional variations:

• Coastal and island regions:
  • Highs: 32°C to 36°C
  • Lows: 22°C to 27°C
• Interior regions:
  • Highs: 34°C to 37°C
  • Lows: 19°C to 24°C
• Mountainous areas:
  • Highs: 26°C to 32°C
  • Lows: 18°C to 23°C

The noticeable drop in nighttime temperatures, particularly in interior and mountainous regions—is reflective of the gradual onset of the cooler season, providing some relief from the prolonged summer heat.

Winds light to moderate, dust possible in open areas

Winds across various regions will remain generally light to moderate, with occasional strengthening that may lead to blowing dust in exposed or open desert areas:

• Coastal and islands: Northeasterly to northwesterly at 10–20 km/hr, peaking at 35 km/hr
• Interior areas: Southeasterly to northwesterly at 10–25 km/hr, gusting up to 40 km/hr
• Mountainous zones: Southeasterly to southwesterly at 10–25 km/hr, with peaks up to 40 km/hr

Residents in open areas and those with respiratory sensitivities are advised to stay alert during windier periods when dust may reduce air quality and visibility.

Sea conditions are forecasted to be generally calm to moderate:

• Arabian Gulf: Slight to moderate
• Oman Sea: Slight

This stability benefits maritime operations and coastal activities, though local authorities continue to monitor for any unexpected changes due to shifting wind patterns.

Four-day forecast: Misty mornings and rain likely

The extended forecast suggests continued fair to partly cloudy conditions, with occasional convective clouds and elevated humidity at night, increasing the likelihood of fog or mist formation through the end of the week.

• Tuesday, October 21: Fair to partly cloudy with potential light showers in eastern and southern regions. Winds could reach up to 35 km/h. Mist likely overnight.
• Wednesday, October 22: Partly cloudy skies and afternoon cloud buildup expected. Increased nighttime humidity could lead to fog. Light to moderate winds throughout the day.
• Thursday, October 23: Mostly clear skies, but fog or mist may develop in the early morning hours. Winds will remain light but may generate mild dust.
• Friday, October 24: Partly cloudy with convective cloud formation in the eastern areas by afternoon. Humid conditions at night could cause mist, especially over coastal zones.

The NCM’s bulletin paints a picture of a mild and predictable weather week, with no major disruptions anticipated. However, high overnight humidity, patchy rainfall in certain zones, and early-morning mist or fog may present occasional challenges for drivers and outdoor operations.

Oil prices dipped on Monday, pressured by worries over a global glut as escalating US-China trade tensions added to concerns about an economic slowdown and weaker energy demand.

Brent crude futures fell 24 cents, or 0.4 per cent, at $61.05 a barrel at 0032 GMT, while US West Texas Intermediate futures were down 21 cents, or 0.4 per cent, at $57.33, erasing gains from Friday.

Both benchmarks declined more than 2 per cent last week, marking their third consecutive weekly decline, partly due to the International Energy Agency’s outlook for a growing supply glut in 2026.

Read-Unexpected drop in Middle East oil premiums raises Saudi pricing dilemma

“Concerns about oversupply from increased production by oil- producing nations, coupled with fears of an economic slowdown stemming from escalating US-China trade tensions, are fuelling selling pressure,” said Toshitaka Tazawa, an analyst at Fujitomi Securities.

“While the US is stepping up pressure on buyers of Russian crude, the upcoming summit between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin adds uncertainty to the outlook, making it difficult for some investors to adjust their positions,” he said.

Last week, the head of the World Trade Organization said she had urged the US and China to de-escalate trade tensions, warning that a decoupling by the world’s two largest economies could reduce global economic output by 7 per cent over the longer term.

The two top oil consumers have recently renewed their trade war, imposing additional port fees on ships carrying cargo between them – tit-for-tat moves that could disrupt global freight flows.

Meanwhile, Trump and Putin agreed on Thursday to hold another summit on the war in Ukraine, even as Washington pressured India and China to stop buying Russian oil.

Following talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy at the White House on Friday, Trump implored both Ukraine and Russia to “stop the war immediately,” even if it means Ukraine conceding territory.

US and European pressure on Asian buyers of Russian energy could restrict India’s oil imports from December, leading to cheaper supplies for China, trade sources and analysts said.

On the supply side, US energy firms last week added oil and natural gas rigs for the first time in three weeks, energy services firm Baker Hughes said in its closely followed report on Friday.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, has approved a new package of artificial intelligence (AI) initiatives aimed at advancing the emirate’s digital transformation and strengthening its position as a global technology hub.

The approval was made during the second 2025 meeting of the Higher Committee for Future Technology Development and the Digital Economy, where Sheikh Hamdan reviewed recent progress and outlined next steps to expand AI adoption across government and key sectors.

Among the initiatives approved were the ‘AI Infrastructure Empowerment Platform’, the formation of the ‘Dubai AI Acceleration Taskforce’, and the launch of the ‘Unicorn 30 Programme’.

Sheikh Hamdan said Dubai remains committed to its goal of becoming “the world’s fastest, smartest and most prepared city to adopt future technologies and AI,” guided by the vision of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

“Our vision is clear, and our priorities are well defined,” Sheikh Hamdan said. “We are in a constant race to enhance the readiness of our government entities not only to keep pace with future transformations but also to make the most of AI tools in delivering services that are more efficient, secure, and innovative, in line with the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33).”

He added that Dubai’s success is built on integration and collaboration across government entities, highlighting the emirate’s unified digital ecosystem that promotes data exchange, accelerates progress, and prioritises the well-being of its people.

The newly launched platform will enable government entities to accelerate AI adoption through a secure, integrated digital environment that offers advanced infrastructure and ready-to-use smart services. It aims to improve operational efficiency, reduce costs via shared infrastructure, and strengthen cybersecurity and governance frameworks to protect government data.

Dubai AI Acceleration Taskforce

The committee also approved the establishment of the Dubai AI Acceleration Taskforce, which will coordinate efforts among government entities and align AI strategies to support the emirate’s broader digital transformation goals.

The taskforce was formed following consultations between the Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Chief AI Officers from 27 government entities, identifying key opportunities to enhance collaboration and decision-making.

Unicorn 30 Programme

Sheikh Hamdan also approved the ‘Unicorn 30 Programme’, developed by the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy with the participation of 80 local and international companies. The initiative aims to accelerate the growth of 30 startups in emerging sectors, helping them achieve unicorn status and strengthening Dubai’s role as a global entrepreneurship hub.

Launched under the Dubai Founders HQ umbrella, the programme includes ten initiatives focused on financing, growth, regulation, and governance to help startups scale globally and reinforce Dubai’s digital economy ecosystem.

GITEX Global 2026

The committee reviewed preparations for GITEX Global 2026, which will mark the 45th edition of the global technology event. Moving from the Dubai World Trade Centre to Expo City Dubai, the event will expand its international reach and content offering, with greater participation from global industry leaders and media. The relocation aims to provide a sustainable and advanced environment aligned with Dubai’s innovation vision.

Sheikh Hamdan was also briefed on recent achievements, including the launch of the Dubai PropTech Hub, announced in July, which aims to attract 200 property technology companies and create over 3,000 skilled jobs by 2030.

He was also updated on the operational strategy of Dubai Founders HQ, launched earlier this month following approval during the committee’s first 2025 meeting.

Dubai’s real estate market continues to outperform global counterparts, driven by a unique combination of population growth, strong foreign investment, a booming off-plan segment, and shifting lifestyle preferences in the post-pandemic era.

According to the Dubai Land Department (DLD), approximately 94,700 investors entered the market in the first half of 2025, marking a 26 per cent increase year-on-year. Notably, 59,000 were new investors, and UAE residents accounted for 45 per cent of this cohort, signaling robust domestic demand alongside global interest.

Read more-UAE real estate is the world’s new hotspot: Here’s why

Data from Hudson Real Estate’s Q4 2025 Dubai Real Estate Market Update indicates a solid year across residential segments:

• Residential sales prices rose by 20 per cent year-on-year
• Rental prices surged 19 per cent across key segments

While traditional hot spots like Downtown Dubai and Dubai Marina remain resilient, market momentum is becoming increasingly project-specific.

Broader gains are decelerating, and buyer attention is now focused on differentiated offerings within high-performing developments.

Top performing submarkets: Yields and growth

In Q4, certain communities have emerged as outperformers in terms of capital appreciation and rental yields:

• Arjan: 6.3 per cent price increase, 8.1 per cent estimated gross rental yield
• Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC): 3.4 per cent price increase, 7.3 per cent rental yield
• Dubai Hills Estate: 2.1 per cent price growth, with strong mid-to-premium end-user demand

These areas are attracting investors due to price accessibility and stable rental demand, making them attractive alternatives to the traditional luxury corridors.

Over 80 residential projects have launched across Dubai in 2025. Submarkets such as JVC, Arjan, and Al Furjan are seeing considerable off-plan activity, prompting a need for selectivity among investors.

Meanwhile, master-planned areas like Dubai Hills, Dubai Creek Harbour, and The Oasis continue to effectively absorb new supply. Their integrated amenities and long-term masterplans are proving key to sustained demand.

Rental market: A tale of two segments

Rental dynamics across Dubai remain stable, with high occupancy in most long-term and short-term categories:

• Short-term rentals are averaging 65–72 per cent occupancy across the city
• Long-term leases under Dhs120,000 per year show 88–90 per cent occupancy
• Premium rentals over Dhs300,000 face longer vacancy cycles and slower absorption

Gross yield calculations now require a realistic assessment of vacancy risk and cost structures, particularly in high-end segments.

Dubai’s real estate continues to attract a diverse international buyer base. As of Q4 2025, the top five nationalities investing in Dubai real estate were:

1. India
2. United Kingdom
3. Russia
4. China
5. Saudi Arabia, notably, the fastest-growing segment

GCC-based investors are increasingly targeting family-oriented communities, villas, and branded residences, aligning with the market’s broader lifestyle evolution.

Transaction volumes hit Dhs262bn in H1 2025

Dubai’s residential real estate sector recorded Dhs262.1bn in transactions during the first half of 2025, up 36.4 per cent in value compared to H1 2024.

While the topline figures are impressive, underlying shifts in buyer behavior and developer strategy are even more telling.

Amaal’s research reveals six major trends shaping the city’s real estate market in 2025, with implications for buyers, tenants, and developers alike.

Six structural trends redefining Dubai real estate

1. Off-plan sales take the lead

Off-plan transactions now account for over 70 per cent of all property sales in 2025, a Flexible payment plans, anticipated appreciation, and confidence in long-term development have tilted the market away from resales, A Cavendish Maxwell report titled, ‘Dubai Residential Market Performance H1 2025‘ conveyed.

Key zones witnessing strong off-plan demand include:

• Mohammed Bin Rashid City
• Dubai South
• Dubai Hills Estate
• Business Bay
• Downtown
• Jumeirah Village Circle

Emerging areas with improved infrastructure such as Dubai Production City, Dubai Silicon Oasis, Dubai Maritime City, and Downtown Jebel Ali are also gaining traction.

“We’re strategically expanding our footprint in these emerging zones, where we see long-term value creation potential,” said Patrick Rouse, Chief Development Officer at Deyaar Development.

2. Suburban shift gains pace

Rising central area rents are pushing residents to suburban locations. Areas like Dubai Silicon Oasis, Jumeirah Village Circle, and Dubai South are evolving into fully serviced lifestyle hubs.

With Dubai’s population now exceeding 3 million, the traditional boundaries of urban demand are expanding rapidly.

3. Wellness is the new standard

Developers are elevating amenities beyond gyms and pools. New projects increasingly include meditation decks, green walkways, co-working lounges, hydrotherapy pools, and pet-friendly zones.

This evolution reflects changing buyer expectations, especially in a hybrid work environment, and is now a defining feature in the mid to premium housing segments.

4. Sustainability drives buying decisions

Sustainability is no longer just a luxury touch. Green certifications like LEED, solar integration, and energy-efficient materials are becoming standard even in mid-market projects.

According to Amaal, sustainable features are increasingly influencing both purchase and rental decisions, particularly among international buyers and ESG-conscious investors.

Properties with smart cooling systems and utility optimization are also seeing reduced vacancy and better retention rates.

5. Rise of mixed-use developments

New projects are prioritising walkable urbanism, with vertical communities that combine residential, commercial, and social infrastructure.

These “vertical villages” offer co-working spaces, cafes, supermarkets, childcare centers, and wellness hubs, promoting a live-work-play ecosystem within the same building or neighborhood.

6. PropTech transforms property access and investment

From AI-enabled platforms to tokenised property investments, technology is revolutionising real estate in Dubai.

International investors from Europe and Asia are using AR/VR home tours, blockchain-based transactions, and predictive pricing tools to remotely shortlist and purchase properties, adding new global liquidity into the market.

While the record-breaking transaction values of 2025 may suggest a market peak, industry leaders argue this is part of a structural shift, not a speculative cycle.

“We are witnessing a long-term recalibration of the UAE’s global position,” said Patrick Rouse of Deyaar. “Dubai is now seen not just as an investment destination but as a place to live, work, and grow.”

The demand is increasingly driven by genuine interest in residency, business expansion, and lifestyle upgrades, not just capital speculation.

Looking head: Quality and vision to drive differentiation

Going forward, sustainability, technology integration, and community-centric planning will be the key differentiators in Dubai’s real estate market.

Developers are being called to raise design standards, enhance service offerings, and prioritize long-term value.

“At Deyaar, we’re aligning our pipeline with evolving buyer preferences. Our focus is on projects that reflect not just where Dubai is today, but where it’s headed,” said Rouse.

Dubai’s real estate market is not just weathering global economic shifts, it is actively transforming through innovation, strategic planning, and a redefined value proposition. With strong domestic and international investor participation, evolving buyer demands, and long-term vision from developers, the city is poised to maintain its upward trajectory well into the future.

As diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) take on new dimensions across the GCC, global companies are learning how to adapt their strategies to local values without losing sight of global standards. Henkel IMEA is also focused on shaping this balance.

From advancing gender equity and integrating AI into HR, to aligning localisation mandates with international benchmarks, the company’s approach reflects the evolving identity of the region’s workforce — one that values both cultural authenticity and innovation.

In this conversation, Ahmed ElNahal, head of HR for Henkel IMEA, discusses how the company is redefining DEI for the Gulf, the future of HR in a digital-first economy, and why the next phase of inclusion in the region is as much about belonging as it is about representation.

What emerging HR trends, such as hybrid work or employee wellbeing, do you see shaping the GCC workplace over the next five years?

The GCC workplace is evolving rapidly, and I see three trends shaping its future:

• Hybrid work as a permanent feature, but adapted to specific needs — balancing flexibility with in-person collaboration when necessary.

• Employee wellbeing as a business priority, not a benefit. This includes holistic programmes that address mental health, financial security, and family support.

• Skill agility as the new currency: organisations will prioritize continuous reskilling to keep pace with automation, AI, and sustainability demands.

Ultimately, the GCC is a region that blends tradition with innovation, and HR will play a central role in shaping workplaces where both can thrive together.

How are GCC organisations leveraging AI and HR analytics to enhance talent acquisition and retention in a competitive, digitally transforming market?

The GCC is at the forefront of digital transformation, and HR is no exception. Companies, including Henkel, are increasingly using AI-powered platforms to enhance recruitment, broaden reach, and minimise unconscious bias.

People analytics enable us to understand retention drivers, predict attrition risks, and design targeted engagement strategies based on data-driven insights.

The broader message here is that we must move from being reactive to predictive — where AI is an enabler.

That said, it is equally important to emphasise that AI does not replace the human element. The real differentiator will be having the right people who are equipped to use AI intelligently and responsibly.

How have you tailored DEI strategies to address the GCC’s unique cultural diversity, ensuring inclusion aligns with regional values like collectivism?

DEI has long been part of our way of thinking — and the GCC is no exception. Here, diversity is defined not only by nationality but also by the rich cultural blend of tradition, collectivism, and rapid modernisation.

In the GCC, nationality diversity is naturally an edge. With such a high representation of different nationalities in our workforce, nationality itself acts as an enabler. But our DEI agenda goes far beyond that. Our approach is to respect local values while integrating global best practices.

For example, we focus on creating platforms for cross-cultural collaboration that leverage the strengths of more than 60 nationalities represented in our workforce. We also adapt our programmes to emphasise family, community, and shared responsibility — values that resonate strongly in this region. This allows us to strengthen inclusion without compromising cultural authenticity.

The next level for us is to shift the conversation from diversity alone to inclusion — ensuring that everyone can co-exist in an ecosystem where their uniqueness is amplified, valued, and leveraged as an advantage. By focusing on inclusion, we can create an environment where cultural authenticity and global best practices reinforce one another.

What specific initiatives has Henkel IMEA implemented to advance gender equity in the GCC, and what broader lessons can organisations draw from these efforts?

Gender equity has long been a central pillar of Henkel IMEA’s DEI agenda. In the GCC, we have launched mentoring and sponsorship programs to accelerate female talent development in all functions. We were also early adopters of smart work and flexible models, helping women balance responsibilities without slowing career growth.

We also arranged leadership roundtables where female leaders engage directly with senior management. Importantly, Henkel has extended the duration of maternity leaves and introduced paternity leaves in our policy framework, ensuring both mothers and fathers can fully enjoy the “moments that matter.”

One of the key lessons we’ve learned is that advancing gender equity requires both structural enablers (like flexible policies) and cultural enablers (role models, storytelling, and visible leadership commitment). When both are present, progress is both tangible and sustainable.

How can HR leaders balance localisation mandates like Saudisation and Emiratisation with global standards to build sustainable talent pipelines in the GCC?

Localisation is a clear national priority across the GCC. We work to balance national mandates with global standards by focusing on capability building, long-term employability, and career growth opportunities.

We partner with universities and local talent pools to not only meet quotas but to develop future-ready leaders. We combine this with our global learning frameworks, ensuring localised talent is also equipped with international exposure and best practices.

This dual approach creates a sustainable pipeline of talent that meets national mandates while strengthening our global competitiveness. Our emphasis is always on competence.

In the GCC, we have the advantage of a strong educational system combined with increasing opportunities for young talent. When you merge that with professionals who are deeply familiar with the local culture and dynamics, localisation becomes an opportunity and an enabler instead of a constraint.