Oman’s Ministry of Education will deploy 4,000 Microsoft 365 Copilot licenses across public schools, positioning the sultanate among the first countries in the region to implement artificial intelligence copilots at scale in education.

The rollout is designed to support teachers with tools for planning, grading, and content creation, freeing up time for student engagement and personalisd instruction.

Students will gain access to interactive learning experiences aimed at strengthening critical thinking, collaboration, and digital fluency.

School leaders and administrators will use data-driven insights to monitor performance, streamline collaboration, and scale innovation across the education system.

The initiative covers both urban and rural schools to ensure equitable access.

Aligned with Oman Vision 2040, the programme advances the country’s goal of building a knowledge-based society.

Deploying Microsoft 365 AI Copilot to empower Oman’s educators, students

“This initiative marks a turning point for education in Oman and a clear demonstration of our commitment to building a knowledge-based society under Vision 2040,” said Ali Al Ghadani, deputy director of the Applied Science Department for IT at the Ministry of Education. “By deploying Microsoft 365 AI Copilot at scale across public schools, we are empowering our teachers with intelligent tools and giving young people personalised, interactive learning experiences that sharpen skills needed in tomorrow’s workforce.”

Sheikh Saif Hilal Al Hosni, country manager for Microsoft Oman and Bahrain, said the move was about ensuring “every student, whether in Muscat or the most remote rural community, has the opportunity to thrive in an AI-powered world.”

The launch builds on a digital transformation partnership signed in 2020, which introduced teacher training, blended learning, and programs such as DigiGirlz.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, Microsoft supported the ministry in extending remote learning technologies to about 75 per cent of schools. The ministry also recently deployed an AI-powered chatbot as part of its modernisation efforts.

The announcement coincided with Microsoft’s participation at COMEX 2025, where the company is showcasing AI applications in public and private sectors across Oman.

Read: How Microsoft and Core42 are powering the UAE’s digital sovereignty

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has completed two key pedestrian bridges on Sheikh Rashid Street and Al Mina Street as part of the expansive Al Shindagha Corridor Improvement Project. This is just one component of a broader strategy that includes six new pedestrian and cyclist bridges across Dubai, five of which are set to open before the end of this year, while the sixth is targeted for completion in the first quarter of 2027.

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The RTA has also unveiled an ambitious roadmap to construct 23 more bridges by the end of 2030, significantly expanding the city’s pedestrian and cycling infrastructure.

This expansion aims to improve safety, enhance connectivity, and encourage the use of sustainable transport options such as walking, cycling, and e-scooters, a Dubai Media Office report said.

Leadership-driven vision to boost quality of life and road safety

According to Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority, the extensive pedestrian bridge program directly reflects the vision of Dubai’s leadership.

“RTA’s drive to deliver pedestrian bridges reflects the directives of the leadership to enhance road safety, provide a safe and sustainable mobility environment for all road users, and transform Dubai into a pedestrian and cyclist-friendly city. It also supports the city’s quality of life agenda,” said Al Tayer.

The existing and planned bridges form a strategic mobility network, connecting residential areas with key commercial, recreational, and tourist destinations across Dubai. This integrated network is designed to facilitate “first and last-mile” travel, short trips to and from public transport, and reduce dependency on cars.

Bridges expand six-fold since 2006, with 23 more on the way

The scale of the RTA’s commitment is reflected in the exponential increase in pedestrian infrastructure: the number of bridges and underpasses grew from just 26 in 2006 to a projected 177 by the end of 2024, representing a 581 per cent increase.

Under its current strategic plan, the RTA aims to construct 23 additional pedestrian bridges by 2030. These locations are selected based on comprehensive field studies that evaluate factors such as:

• Population density
• Urban land use and planning
• Proximity to tourism and economic zones
• Access to public transport hubs

This analytical approach ensures that the bridges are optimally located to enhance pedestrian safety and traffic flow while supporting city-wide efforts to reduce congestion and carbon emissions.

Safer streets: Fatalities down 97 per cent since 2007

Al Tayer highlighted the significant progress made in reducing pedestrian-related road fatalities, thanks in large part to infrastructure upgrades and proactive transport policies.

“RTA’s efforts in enhancing road safety and integrating infrastructure have contributed to a decline in pedestrian fatalities and accidents, from 9.5 deaths per 100,000 people in 2007 to 0.3 deaths in 2024, a reduction of 97 per cent,” he noted.

Pedestrian satisfaction levels have also improved dramatically, now reaching 88 per cent across the city. Furthermore, pedestrian trips climbed from 307 million in 2023 to 326 million in 2024, representing 6 per cent annual growth. Similarly, cycling trips saw a 5 per cent increase, rising from 44 million in 2023 to 46.6 million in 2024.

These trends underscore a growing public shift toward sustainable transport alternatives, supported by the RTA’s infrastructure investments.

Zero fatalities strategy: Safety meets innovation

Al Tayer reiterated that pedestrian safety is a core pillar of Dubai’s Traffic Safety Strategy, which is rooted in the bold objective of achieving Zero Fatalities on the roads.

To this end, the RTA is not only building more bridges but also ensuring they meet the highest international standards of design and construction. The bridges are outfitted with:

• Advanced electromechanical systems
• Fire alarms and firefighting equipment
• Remote monitoring capabilities
• Safety and security infrastructure
• Dedicated bicycle and e-scooter paths, in select locations
• Bike racks, supporting multi-modal transport

Design aesthetics are also prioritized, with bridges incorporating architectural features that reflect the identity and surroundings of the area they serve.

New bridges completed on Sheikh Rashid and Al Mina Streets

The two newly completed pedestrian bridges, part of the Al Shindagha Corridor Improvement Project, enhance safe access across two major arterial roads:

• Sheikh Rashid Street Bridge:
  • Length: 91 metres
  • Width: 3.4 metres
  • Height: 6.5 metres
• Al Mina Street Bridge:
  • Length: 109 metres
  • Width: 3.4 metres
  • Height: 6.5 metres

Both bridges are equipped with lifts, staircases, and electromechanical rooms containing safety systems, including fire alarms, firefighting units, and remote surveillance equipment.

Bridges nearing completion across key city corridors

Six pedestrian and cyclist bridges are currently under construction, with five expected to open by the end of 2024. These bridges will connect multiple high-density and high-mobility zones, including areas with strong demand for non-motorized transport options.

1. Sheikh Zayed Road Bridge

This bridge forms a strategic link between Al Sufouh and Dubai Hills, passing through Dubai Internet City, Al Barsha Heights, and Al Barsha 3.

• Length: 528 metres
• Width: 5 metres (3m for cyclists/e-scooters, 2m for pedestrians)
• Design: Inspired by interwoven lines symbolizing connectivity; open structure offers panoramic city views

2. Al Khail Road Bridge

Running parallel to the sun’s path, this bridge offers a tranquil, fluid passage for pedestrians and cyclists away from road noise.

• Length: 501 metres
• Width: 5 metres (same configuration as above)
• Design: Highlights natural light, integrating solar trajectory into the structure

3. Al Manara Street Bridge – Al Quoz Creative Zone

Designed to complement the artistic identity of the area, this bridge facilitates safe movement in the Al Quoz Creative Zone and nearby attractions.

• Length: 45 metres
• Width: 5.5 metres
• Height: 6 metres from road level
• Ramp Lengths: 210 metres on each side

Major arterial crossings: Dubai–Al Ain and Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Roads

4. Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road Bridge (Al Nahda Intersection)

Connecting Muhaisnah 1 and Al Twar, this bridge also extends access toward Al Mamzar Beach.

• Length: 554 metres
• Width: 5.6 metres
• Height: 12.5 metres

5. Dubai–Al Ain Road Bridge

Provides a crucial crossing between Wadi Al Safa 4 (Liwan) and Nadd Hessa (Dubai Silicon Oasis).

• Length: 730 metres
• Width: 5.6 metres
• Height: 7.8 metres

Bridge six under future street project: Completion in 2027

The sixth bridge, being built on Al Sukook Street, forms part of the Future Street Improvement Project and integrates with Dubai’s Central Business District.

• Length: 44 metres
• Width: 4.6 metres
• Height: 6.5 metres
• Features: Lifts, staircases, electromechanical system rooms

The bridge design is tailored to blend with the surrounding urban landscape, providing a safe and seamless connection for pedestrians and cyclists.

Next phase: Nine bridges by 2028 including key landmarks

Looking further ahead, the RTA has confirmed plans to construct nine more pedestrian bridges by 2028. These include:

• A bridge near Coca-Cola Arena
• A pedestrian bridge in Business Bay
• A strategic crossing on Sheikh Zayed Road close to the Burj Khalifa area
• Six additional bridges along Al Asayel Street, supporting dense commercial and residential zones

These future installations are expected to further boost connectivity and enable more residents and visitors to choose walking or cycling for daily commutes.

Global Village, the region’s leading multicultural destination for family entertainment, shopping, dining, and cultural attractions, has officially confirmed the dates for its highly anticipated Season 30. The landmark season will run from October 15, 2025 to May 10, 2026, marking a major milestone for the beloved Dubai attraction.

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The announcement follows the enormous success of Season 29, which drew a record-breaking 10.5 million visitors, setting a new standard for regional tourism and public engagement. Now, as it prepares to celebrate three decades of operations, Global Village is positioning Season 30 as its most exciting chapter yet.

30 years of global experiences in one destination

For the past 30 years, Global Village has served as a dynamic crossroads of cultures, offering guests an unparalleled mix of international cuisines, cultural performances, artisanal crafts, and global retail experiences. With each passing season, the destination has expanded in both scale and scope, gaining prominence as a key player in Dubai’s tourism and entertainment economy.

According to a Dubai Media Office report, Season 30 is expected to raise the bar even higher, promising new attractions, enhanced guest experiences, and a vibrant calendar of global showcases. Visitors of all ages can look forward to a spectacular mix of entertainment, immersive shopping, and a culinary journey that spans continents.

Retail and Guest Service proposals now open

Back in June 2025, Global Village invited entrepreneurs, retailers, and service providers to submit proposals for participation in Season 30 under the Retail Shops and Guest Services categories. The call to action comes as part of the park’s initiative to empower small and medium businesses through exposure to millions of potential customers.

“This is a unique opportunity to grow a business in one of the region’s most visited destinations,” noted a Global Village media report, which highlighted the infrastructure and operational support provided to business partners.

Business owners interested in showcasing their products or services can apply here.

The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) in Saudi Arabia has proposed major amendments to the country’s Labor Law and its Executive Regulations, adding a series of new violations and penalties aimed at ensuring fair treatment of workers and stronger compliance from employers.

The ministry made the proposed changes public via the Istitlaa platform, inviting feedback from citizens, businesses, and stakeholders before final adoption. The updated Table of Violations and Penalties marks a significant shift in labor regulation, introducing sector-specific enforcement for the first time in the maritime and agricultural industries, a Saudi Gazette report said.

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“These updates are intended to create a clearer, more consistent framework for enforcing labour rights,” the ministry said in a statement.

“They promote transparency, reduce ambiguity, and reflect the evolving dynamics of the Saudi labor market.”

New sectors, new rules: Maritime and agriculture in focus

Among the most notable changes is the introduction of violations specific to maritime work, with fines ranging between SAR300 and SAR1,000. These cover a range of offenses, including:

• Hiring individuals under the age of 18 on Saudi ships or naval units.
• Ignoring contractual obligations in maritime labor agreements.
• Delayed or missed wage payments to seafarers.
• Interfering with a ship captain’s decision-making regarding crew and vessel safety.
• Failing to provide adequate off-board accommodation for seafarers when needed.

In the agricultural sector, penalties are more substantial, ranging from SAR300 to SAR20,000, depending on the violation. Offenses in this category include:

• Employing workers below the legal age of 21.
• Denying required daily or weekly rest periods.
• Failing to provide legally mandated vacation time.
• Neglecting to offer food, housing, or monetary compensation.
• Engaging in or facilitating forced labor.
• Preventing workers from contacting their families, embassies, or recruitment agents.

These additions reflect the kingdom’s commitment to closing loopholes in labor protections across diverse economic sectors, especially where vulnerable or migrant workers may be at risk.

Existing violations face harsher penalties

The proposed amendments don’t stop at new categories, they also tighten enforcement on existing labor regulations. A clear example is the explicit inclusion of maternity leave violations, where failure to grant leave to eligible women now carries a SAR1,000 fine.

Recruitment firms and labor service providers are also under greater scrutiny. Violations such as failing to register worker information in ministry-approved systems, or not informing workers of their contractual rights, will now face a layered system of consequences. These include:

• Monetary fines.
• Official warnings.
• License suspension for up to six months in some cases and up to 12 months in others.
• Permanent license revocation for serious or repeat offenses.

“These updates ensure accountability for recruitment practices and help protect the dignity and rights of workers from the outset,” the ministry stated.

Supporting flexibility, enhancing accountability

The revised law reflects Saudi Arabia’s efforts to modernize its labour system in response to emerging work models, including part-time and flexible roles. By clearly outlining violations and setting predefined penalties, the government hopes to create greater predictability and fairness in labor inspections and dispute resolution.

“Clear definitions reduce subjective judgment by inspectors and provide employers with consistent standards to follow,” the ministry explained.

These amendments are currently in the consultation phase, with the government encouraging the public to provide input via the Istitlaa platform. Once finalised, they will be incorporated into the Labor Law and its Executive Regulations.

By taking this step, Saudi Arabia aims to align its labor practices more closely with international standards, support fair employment practices, and reinforce the country’s vision for a more inclusive and equitable labour market.

As it celebrates two decades of redefining retail in the region, Mall of the Emirates is preparing to enter a bold new phase of transformation. Marking its 20th anniversary this September, the iconic destination is unveiling an ambitious Dhs5bn reinvention under the banner of “Mall of New Possibilities”, all while its parent company, Majid Al Futtaim, reports a solid first half of 2025, showcasing resilience, profitability, and strategic evolution.

Since opening its doors in 2005, Mall of the Emirates has become far more than a shopping mall. It’s a landmark that combines culture, commerce, entertainment, and community under one roof. With world-first attractions like Ski Dubai, and the region’s top fashion, lifestyle, and culinary brands, it has long set the gold standard for lifestyle destinations in the Middle East.

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Image credit: Supplied

Now, 20 years later, Majid Al Futtaim is looking ahead.

The newly announced Dhs5bn redevelopment of the Mall of the Emirates will introduce 20,000 sqm of additional retail space, 100 new stores, and a reinvigorated mix of cultural, wellness, and experiential offerings. Among the planned features:

• New Covent Garden-inspired district, anchored by a 600-seat theatre
• A next-generation wellness precinct
• A new indoor-outdoor retail and leisure zone
• Immersive entertainment experiences tailored to evolving consumer demands

“The launch of a landmark Dhs5bn investment in our flagship destination, Mall of the Emirates, demonstrates our dedication to setting new standards in world-class retail and lifestyle experiences,” said Ahmed Galal Ismail, CEO of Majid Al Futtaim Holding.

Month-long 20th anniversary celebration

To commemorate its 20-year legacy, Mall of the Emirates has rolled out an exciting calendar of activations throughout September:

• September 13: Global Runway Under the FASHION DOME – Featuring the debut of the Fall/Winter 2025 collection at THAT Concept Store, with a live DJ, juice bar, and curated fashion experience from 4pm to 6pm.
• September 17 – 29: AllSaints Customisation Lab – A complimentary personalisation experience, where visitors can add custom logos or their own flair to AllSaints apparel.
• September 20:
  • Bandaloop Aerial Performance – The acclaimed vertical dance troupe will perform awe-inspiring aerial shows at 5pm and 6pm.
  • Exclusive SHARE Rewards – Shoppers can earn 20x SHARE points for 24 hours only.

These experiences underscore the mall’s evolving role as a place where community, creativity, and commerce intersect.

Strong financials back bold vision

The anniversary and transformation plans come on the back of a solid financial performance by Majid Al Futtaim for the first half of 2025. According to the Group’s H1 report, the company recorded:

• Consolidated revenue of Dhs3bn, up 3 per cent year-on-year
• EBITDA growth of 9 per cent, reaching Dhs2.3bn
• Net profit of Dhs5bn
• Net profit (excluding valuation and tax) up 23 per cent YoY to Dhs1.3bn from Dhs1.0bn
• Free cash flow of Dhs1bn
• Reduction in net debt to Dhs4bn, with net debt to equity improving to 38 per cent

These results reflect not only robust core business performance but also the company’s commitment to prudent capital allocation and strategic expansion.

Strategic growth across sectors

Chairman Fadel Abdulbaqi Al Ali attributed the success to long-term thinking and focused execution. “Majid Al Futtaim’s first half financial performance highlights both the strength of its strategic direction and the Group’s commitment to delivering long-term value creation for all stakeholders.”

CEO Ahmed Galal Ismail echoed the sentiment, adding: “Our strong half-year results reaffirm the group’s profitable growth trajectory and are a testament to the group’s steady progress on strategic investments and transformation across our core sectors.”

The company’s core verticals, from retail and entertainment to real estate and digital, are seeing significant investment:

• The Carrefour Now platform continues to anchor its omnichannel retail strategy.
• Its AI-driven marketing unit, Precision Media, is gaining traction as a new revenue stream.
• The company is expanding into the Saudi luxury market, part of its plan to bring global lifestyle brands to the region.

Future-proofing through innovation and experience

Majid Al Futtaim’s sustained performance is bolstered by its innovation-driven culture. From introducing digitally native business models to pioneering experiences in cinema and entertainment, the group is positioning itself for long-term scalability.

“Our performance is a testimony to the values-led efforts of our MAFers and the collective drive to create shared value for our stakeholders,” said Ismail. “We are building future-ready capabilities that position us for the next phase of sustainable, scalable growth.”

With the Mall of the Emirates’ transformation on the horizon and continued momentum across sectors, the company is doubling down on its vision of blending lifestyle, community, and innovation, all while remaining firmly anchored in financial discipline.