Several airlines have updated their guidance on carrying lithium batteries onboard. The batteries are in devices such as cellphones and e-cigarettes, and can malfunction to produce smoke, fire or extreme heat.

Read-These Asian airlines have just banned power banks onboard

In 2024, three incidents every two weeks of overheating lithium batteries on planes were recorded globally by the US Federal Aviation Administration, compared to just under one a week in 2018.

Aviation has long recognised the batteries as a safety concern, and rules are periodically tightened in response to accidents.

Airlines in South Korea

In January, an Air Busan plane was consumed in flames while preparing to depart South Korea. Investigators have not issued a final report into the cause of the fire, but the transport ministry said on March 14 that a power bank was the possible cause.

Air Busan was the first to change its policies to disallow power banks in overhead cabin bins, saying passengers should keep them on their person, to more easily spot any problems.

From March 1, South Korea tightened rules for all South Korean airlines, including keeping power banks and e-cigarettes with passengers and not in luggage bins, and not charging devices onboard.

Airlines in Hong Kong

Hong Kong’s aviation regulator said local airlines from April 7 must not allow passengers to use or charge power banks during flights, and they must not be stored in overhead lockers.

On March 20 a Hong Kong Airlines flight departing China was forced to divert due to a “suspected hand carry baggage fire” in an overhead compartment.

Hong Kong’s Civil Aviation Department said on March 24 it was “highly concerned about recent safety incidents suspected to have been caused by passengers carrying and using lithium battery power banks (power banks) on aircraft”.

Hong Kong-based carrier Cathay Pacific said it would implement the new regulations, adding that it recognised the importance of continuous improvement in aviation safety. The airline had earlier told Reuters it would not change its guidelines out of concern it would be hard to enforce and “may lead to negative unintended consequences”.

Singapore Airlines and Scoot

Singapore Airlines, including budget airline Scoot, from April 1 has prohibited passengers from using or charging portable power banks during flights.

The airline told Reuters it regularly reviews in-flight procedures and regulations, and safety is the company’s top priority.

Air Astana

Kazakhstan’s Air Astana from March 13 prohibited charging or using power banks during flights and said lithium batteries, external batteries and e-cigarettes must be kept in hand luggage and placed on the luggage racks.

Eva Air

Taiwan’s EVA Air prohibited charging and using power banks and spare lithium batteries on flights starting on March 1.

It advised that most plane seats are equipped with USB power outlets if passengers need to charge other devices.

China Airlines

Taiwan’s China Airlines said from March 1 power banks and spare lithium batteries must not be used or charged during flights. It also recommended that passengers not store power banks in overhead bins.

Thai Airways

Thai Airways from March 15 prohibited the use and charging of power banks and portable batteries during flights.

Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG)

MAG, the parent of Malaysia Airlines, said from April 1 power banks are prohibited in overhead compartments. “During the flight, you may store them in your carry-on bag under the seat, or in the seat pocket in front of you,” it said.

Magnetic wireless power banks must be kept in a separate bag and charging or using of power banks will be prohibited during flights.

Batik Air

From March 14 passengers on Indonesia’s Batik Air, part of the Lion Air Group, may not use power banks in flight. Two power banks may be carried on their person and not in overhead cabins.

“Passengers are also advised to exercise caution when carrying auto-magnet charge power banks, as these may pose additional risks,” the airline said.

China

China’s aviation regulator has said from at least 2014 that passengers should not charge devices using power banks during flight.

IATA Guidelines

Airlines generally follow the lithium battery guidance in the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations, which state power banks must be carried in cabin baggage, not in checked baggage, and sets limits on the amount and strength of batteries that can be carried.

European airline group Lufthansa said it adheres to IATA guidance, which has not changed.

IATA did not respond to a request for comment.

Air India said it constantly reviews policies based on industry events and regulatory recommendations.

“As change from current practice may introduce new risks and there is no clear consensus on the best approach, Air India policy remains unchanged at this juncture,” a spokesperson said.

The Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) has introduced a new Dhs100 polymer banknote, featuring innovative designs and advanced security features.

This new banknote is part of the CBUAE’s third issuance of the National Currency Project, aimed at enhancing the country’s currency system.

The design of the Dhs100 note highlights the UAE’s growth and success, incorporating cultural and developmental symbols that reflect the nation’s journey to becoming a global economic and commercial hub.

Aesthetic and security features

The new banknote has shades of red while maintaining the colour scheme of the current Dhs100 denomination.

The note also prominently features the UAE nation brand, with intricate drawings and inscriptions crafted using advanced printing techniques.

On the front of the banknote is the Um Al Quwain National Fort, a historical monument that links the UAE’s rich past with its present achievements.

The reverse side of the note showcases the Port of Fujairah, one of the UAE’s largest and busiest ports, as well as the Etihad Rail, a vital railway network connecting all seven emirates and extending to the Gulf Cooperation Council countries.

To enhance security and prevent counterfeiting, the DHs100 banknote includes advanced security features such as SPARK Flow DIMENSIONS and KINEGRAM COLORS, a multi-coloured security chip technology.

These features are designed to ensure the authenticity of the note.

Dhs100 new note made from durable polymer

Made of durable polymer, the new banknote is more sustainable than traditional paper notes, lasting up to two or more times longer in circulation.

In consideration of all banknote users, the CBUAE has also incorporated Braille symbols, allowing blind and visually impaired consumers to identify the value of the note easily.

The new banknote will begin circulating alongside the existing Dhs100 notes starting today, March 24.

Banks and exchange houses have been instructed to update their cash deposit machines and counting devices to ensure the seamless acceptance of both the new polymer and existing banknotes, which are guaranteed by law.

The CBUAE has previously earned recognition for its innovation in currency design. The central bank won the ‘Best New Banknote’ award at the 2023 and 2025 High Security Printing EMEA conference for its polymer Dhs500 and Dhs1m000 notes, which feature unique designs and advanced security features.

On the launch of the new banknote, Khaled Mohamed Balama, governor of the CBUAE, stated: “The new 100 dirham banknote reflects our commitment to the leadership’s vision for a sustainable future through initiatives and achievements that support net zero and enhance the nation’s financial competitiveness.”

He further added, “Its design embodies the country’s ambitious aspirations for future progress and prosperity, while honoring its historical and cultural heritage. We are pleased to announce this special issue in conjunction with the Eid Al-Fitr celebrations.”

Fifty years ago, Brazil and the UAE established diplomatic relations.Over time, this relationship has become steadily stronger, befitting their mutual status as economic engines and hotbeds of innovation.

Brazil and the UAE share similar paths and are members of many of the same clubs — notably the multilateral BRICS group, which Brazil co-founded and which the UAE joined in January 2024.

Merchandise trade between the two nations has grown at an annual rate of 14 per cent over the past 26 years – double the world average – and reached $6bn in the 12 months ending October 2024. But while impressive, that represents only 1 per cent of each country’s total foreign commerce, thus hinting at immense untapped potential.

Investment in infrastructure development presents an opportunity to deepen the economic relationship between these kindred states. This is also an area where UAE entities, including its many sovereign wealth funds (SWFs), are keen to diversify their portfolios. It also matches up well with Brazil’s need to address the significant infrastructure gaps in areas from power generation to logistics and transportation and from data centres to environmental services.

Addressing these gaps is crucial as they threaten to dampen Brazil’s growth and productivity. The World Bank has noted the importance of modern infrastructure, including digital, “to create more and better jobs” for the people of Brazil.

Meanwhile the World Economic Forum’s January 2024 report on global growth places Brazil’s infrastructure at the middle of the pack with a score of four on a scale of one to seven, where seven is best.

At the same time, Brazil has significant advantages for investors: stable institutions, a foothold in a market of 203 million people, a credible central bank, a resilient financial system, the initiation of tax reforms, a market-driven economy, and a robust labour market; indicating that Brazil’s infrastructure sector offers a variety of attractive risk-adjusted opportunities.

Middle East investments in Brazil

Middle East investments in Brazilian infrastructure have been making some headway, most recently with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) investing in Brazil’s transportation infrastructure, following a bid in a recent round of Brazilian government auctions for toll-road concessions. Deals such as this could work well for UAE investors too, particularly SWFs.

Across Latin America, where the Brazilian economy is the largest one, we see many projects that prioritise sustainable and inclusive development in compliance with SDGs and ESG principles, while also presenting an attractive range of risk-adjusted options for investors, especially those supporting energy transition.

We see opportunities for approximately $90bn worth of investment in Latin American infrastructure development projects in related sectors, from toll-road concessions in Brazil and Colombia to privatisation of sanitation assets in Brazil, water desalination in Chile and Peru and waste management across the region.

To take advantage of these manifold openings, it can be useful for Middle East investors to team up with specialised partners and advisors who understand that navigating the reefs and shoals of a large emerging market in Latin America requires more than just capital. It also demands regional expertise and a diversified investment platform.

From our experience, we have addressed international investors’ concerns over the years, especially those around sub-national risks.

Infrastructure assets have long-term contracts, oftentimes inflation indexation, and a long track record of solid regulatory agencies. In toll roads, as we have seen with PIF’s investments, there are 20 to 30-year-old concessions with reputable regulatory agencies in place, respecting contracts, and providing stability to the investment.

It is important to remember that trade must be two-way to thrive. There are also paths by which Brazilian investors can bring their funds to key economic sectors in the UAE and the wider region.

Looking forward, there remains plenty of room for growth in the UAE-Brazil relationship. By leveraging local expertise and focusing on robust, regulated sectors such as infrastructure, both nations can unlock significant mutual benefits and ensure the next 50 years of partnership are even more prosperous than the last.

Saudi Arabia is exploring the possibility of scrapping insurance approvals for health insurance services in the country.

According to a report from Saudi Gazette, the Saudi Insurance Authority, along with relevant entities and specialists, is conducting a study regarding the removal of insurance approvals for health insurance services.

Read-Dhamani platform: Deadline for hospitals, clinics nears

“This study aims to eliminate beneficiaries from the process that connects hospitals and healthcare providers to insurance companies operating in the Kingdom, which causes harm to beneficiaries due to delayed approvals,” Eng. Naji Al Tamimi, CEO of the Saudi Insurance Authority, told Al-Riyadh newspaper.

Al Tamimi also revealed that the authority received over 400,000 complaints against insurance companies in 2024. The complaint closure rate increased to over 99 per cent, with the satisfaction rate exceeding 95 per cent.

However, concerns have been raised about potential excesses and wastage related to healthcare costs, which could negatively impact insurance prices if approvals are scrapped. The authority has assured that careful study will guide the decision, ensuring it is made in the best interests of the beneficiaries.

Performance indicators for insurance companies will be published, including the percentage of complaints relative to individual beneficiaries, as well as health and vehicle insurance policies for each company.

This initiative is aimed at encouraging companies to improve service quality and enhance customer satisfaction.

Bupa Arabia launches initiative to scrap medical approvals

Following discussions on scrapping insurance approvals by Saudi authorities, Bupa Arabia has launched a new initiative allowing members to receive treatment directly, without the need to submit or wait for prior medical approvals.

This initiative makes healthcare visits easier for individuals by enhancing the overall experience for insured members in the country.

This move by Bupa Arabia is the first of its kind in Saudi Arabia’s health insurance sector, designed to provide a seamless, hassle-free healthcare experience and quicker access to medical care.

“This initiative transforms the way healthcare is delivered to our members by removing the need for prior approvals, ensuring a faster and more comfortable experience. It’s an unprecedented achievement in Saudi Arabia’s health insurance sector, and we are proud to be the first to introduce such an innovative model”, Eng. Ryyan Tarabzoni, Chief Operating Officer at Bupa Arabia, said commenting on this achievement.

How is it a new concept in the healthcare industry?

This initiative will mark a significant milestone in the healthcare industry as it:

• Eliminates the need for submitting or waiting for prior medical approvals for outpatient treatment at participating hospitals.
• Simplifies and streamlines the process for members at medical and healthcare facilities.

Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Finance, and Chairman of the Dubai Judicial Council, has approved the 2025-2029 strategic plan for Dubai Courts.

The plan is aimed at driving judicial innovation and reinforcing Dubai’s global legal standing.

Sheikh Maktoum emphasised that the strategy will develop an innovative judicial system that adapts to global trends and future demands, ensuring swift justice and upholding the rule of law.

He commended the Dubai Courts team for their efforts in formulating the plan, highlighting the necessity of continuous improvement and enhanced service quality through the adoption of cutting-edge technologies and artificial intelligence (AI).

“The new strategy will reinforce Dubai’s leadership by streamlining litigation processes, enhancing court ruling enforcement, and expanding alternative dispute resolution mechanisms. It will also strengthen Dubai’s appeal as a preferred hub for legal solutions,” Sheikh Maktoum said.

Key pillars of the Dubai Courts strategic plan

The Dubai Courts’ 2025-2029 strategy is based on the principles of judicial leadership, efficiency, and transparency. It focuses on upholding the rule of law and building public trust in the judiciary as essential to societal stability. The plan is structured around four core objectives:

1. Pioneering judicial performance: Optimising case preparation, improving adjudication efficiency, and refining enforcement procedures.

2. Integrated judicial services: Enhancing customer experience, promoting alternative dispute resolution, and fostering strategic partnerships.

3. Future-ready institutional capabilities: Attracting and developing specialised judicial and administrative talent while promoting innovation and sustainable governance.

4. Advanced digital judicial system: Leveraging AI and emerging technologies to improve data utilisation and judicial efficiency.

The strategic framework is underpinned by three strategic impact indicators, 27 performance indicators, and 42 initiatives and projects.

Adapting to global challenges

Professor Saif Ghanem Al Suwaidi, director-general of Dubai Courts, said it was important for Dubai’s judicial system to remain at the forefront of global advancements.

“The world is undergoing rapid transformation, and judicial institutions must evolve to address emerging challenges. Dubai Courts has developed this strategic plan to ensure a responsive and future-ready judicial system,” Al Suwaidi said.

He noted that the plan was the result of a year-long effort focused on integrating legislative and technological solutions to enhance the judicial framework. “We are committed to investing in AI and modern technologies to improve judicial performance and provide swift and flexible justice,” he added.

Al Suwaidi reiterated that judicial innovation is an ongoing process, crucial for meeting societal aspirations and demands. “This strategy is a significant milestone in Dubai’s pursuit of global judicial excellence. It places a responsibility on us to continuously enhance the standing of Dubai Courts internationally,” he said.