Expo City Dubai said new business registrations rose more than 25 per cent in the first half of 2026 compared with the same period last year, as companies from healthcare, fintech, education and creative industries joined its commercial community.
More than 80 per cent of Expo City Dubai’s commercial space is now leased, the development said in a statement.
New tenants include LEO Pharma, a global medical dermatology company that established its Middle East headquarters at Expo City Dubai, and UAE-based fintech firm Alaan, which provides AI-powered financial automation tools for businesses.
Other companies that joined the business district in the first half of the year include materials provider SWM International, represented locally by Luban Global; early childhood education provider British Orchard Nursery; music education and production hub SOPM; interior design and fit-out company DomDom Technical Services; and creative agency BOND.
Expo City Dubai said its tenant base has also expanded through its Expo Green Licence initiative, which supports companies focused on sustainability and circular economy solutions. New companies under the initiative include atmospheric water harvesting firm Airjoule, circular economy company Polygreen and electronics recycling and refurbishment company WAT (We Are Tech).
“Expo City Dubai’s appeal for those seeking a future-ready destination continues to grow,” Charles Swanson, vice president, commercial at Expo City Dubai, said.
He added that the development’s focus would remain on attracting businesses working on circular economy solutions and sustainable growth as part of its role as the UAE’s first Green Innovation District.
LEO Pharma UAE GM Ahmed Safwat said establishing the company’s regional hub at Expo City Dubai would support its expansion plans and collaboration opportunities.
“Expo City Dubai is more than a business hub, it is a community built around innovation, collaboration and a shared ambition to create positive impact,” Safwat said.
Alaan’s head of Growth and Marketing Pankaj Suresh said the move would allow the company to collaborate with other businesses while continuing to develop AI-based financial solutions.
Expo City Dubai, the legacy development of Expo 2020 Dubai, is located along the logistics corridor connecting Al Maktoum International Airport and Jebel Ali Port, with access to the Dubai Exhibition Centre and Dubai Metro network.
The development is one of five hubs identified under the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan and forms part of the emirate’s Economic Agenda D33.
Expo City Dubai was recognised as a “rising star” free zone for 2025 by fDi Intelligence, the statement said.
Inside Aster’s expansion plan: Healthcare entity targets more than 100 UAE clinics by 2030
The expansion will see Aster Clinics UAE grow from its current network of 85 facilities through a combination of new clinic launches and expansions of existing centres
Aster Clinics UAE, the largest private primary care network under the Aster DM Healthcare GCC group, is accelerating its long-term growth strategy in the country with plans to expand its footprint to more than 100 facilities by 2030.
The expansion will see Aster Clinics UAE grow from its current network of 85 facilities through a combination of new clinic launches and expansions of existing centres. The initiative is supported by an investment commitment of Dhs100m and is expected to increase the organisation’s workforce strength to 4,100 employees across the UAE.
The planned expansion will introduce new specialty centres, enhance in-clinic diagnostic capabilities, and accelerate the integration of digital healthcare solutions through myAster. The network will also expand homecare and personalised healthcare services as part of its broader strategy to deliver accessible, patient-focused care across the Emirates.
Rising demand drives expansion strategy
The growth plan comes amid increasing demand for primary healthcare services in the UAE, with annual patient footfall across Aster Clinics’ network rising by 15 per cent over the past year.
The UAE outpatient segment accounts for more than 70 per cent of total healthcare interactions, highlighting the growing importance of primary care networks in providing first-contact, preventive and continuous healthcare services.
Aster Clinics is responding to this shift by strengthening its integrated care model and expanding its presence closer to residential communities. The company’s strategy focuses on improving healthcare accessibility while supporting the UAE’s broader vision for preventive and digitally enabled healthcare delivery.
Expanding specialty care capabilities
Alongside geographic expansion, Aster Clinics is increasing its clinical capabilities through targeted specialty-led models designed to provide comprehensive care under one ecosystem.
The organisation is scaling its diabetes care services through its “clinic within clinics” model, enabling patients to access integrated chronic disease management across its network. It is also expanding its Orthopaedics and Physiotherapy services to provide comprehensive treatment options for bone and joint-related conditions under one platform.
Aster Clinics UAE currently operates 85 clinics across the emirates, supported by 13 Access Clinics. The group also operates two clinics in Bahrain, contributing to one of the region’s most extensive primary healthcare platforms. Across the GCC, Aster’s clinic network exceeds 100 facilities, reinforcing its regional healthcare presence and ability to provide continuity of care across diverse communities.
Speaking on the company’s outlook, Alisha Moopen, MD and group CEO, Aster DM Healthcare, said: “The UAE continues to be a cornerstone market for Aster’s long-term strategy. Our confidence in this market is rooted in its strong fundamentals, progressive healthcare ecosystem, and clear national vision for integrated care delivery. Our approach remains focused on building a sustainable, scalable healthcare model that combines clinical excellence, digital innovation, and community-centric care.”
Strategic expansion across emerging communities
Aster’s next phase of growth is being supported by a structured expansion strategy focused on increasing geographic reach while deepening clinical expertise.
The recent launch of Aster Clinic Jaddaf has strengthened healthcare access in a rapidly developing residential hub. Meanwhile, specialised centres such as the Aster Diabetes 360 Care Clinic and Aster Children’s Clinic in Dubai Silicon Oasis reflect the organisation’s focus on lifecycle-based healthcare and family-oriented services.
The company is also enhancing capacity across its existing network, including the expansion of the Aster Orthopaedic Clinic in Qusais and strengthened women’s health services at Aster Clinic Gardens, supported by expanded radiology capabilities.
Dr Sherbaz Bichu, CEO of Aster Hospitals & Clinics (UAE, Bahrain and Oman), said: “We are humbled by the trust our communities continue to place in Aster Clinics, and this expansion is our way of honouring that trust with even greater compassion. Healthcare should never be a privilege, it is a right that belongs to every individual, regardless of background or means. As we grow, our commitment remains rooted in bringing quality care closer to the people who need it most, ensuring it is not just accessible, but genuinely affordable across every stratum of society. This expansion reflects our promise to treat every patient well, and reaffirms our shared responsibility, alongside the nation’s vision, to build a healthcare ecosystem where no community is left behind.”
Digital healthcare and personalised services remain key priorities
Aster Clinics is also strengthening its technology-driven healthcare ecosystem through digital platforms and home-based services.
Its myAster platform enables teleconsultations and supports continuity of care throughout patient journeys. Meanwhile, Aster @Home extends consultations, diagnostics and nursing services directly to patients’ homes, hotels and workplaces, improving convenience and accessibility.
The organisation is also expanding its wellness portfolio with services such as IV therapies and plans to introduce peptide-based treatments as part of its broader focus on preventive and personalised healthcare.
Programmes including Care for Her, a personalised women’s health and wellness initiative, and Age Well with Aster, a senior care programme, reflect the rising demand for specialised healthcare solutions tailored to different stages of life.
Future growth focused on accessibility and innovation
Looking ahead, Aster Clinics UAE plans to continue investing in capacity expansion, express clinics in high-density locations and diagnostic capabilities through the development of Neubridge Diagnostics.
The network’s phased expansion strategy will focus on high-growth residential corridors and emerging communities across the Emirates, aligning with population growth trends and increasing demand for neighbourhood-based healthcare models.
The rise of “10–15 minute access” healthcare concepts is reshaping primary care delivery in the UAE, with patients increasingly seeking convenient healthcare facilities located closer to their homes and workplaces.
Manish Jain, deputy chief executive officer – Aster & Access Clinics UAE and Bahrain, added: “Our growth approach is structured and community-driven. Alongside expanding into new locations, we are equally focused on strengthening capabilities within our existing network. This ensures that every phase of growth enhances both accessibility and clinical value for our patients.”
Aster Clinics’ continued expansion reflects the wider transformation of healthcare delivery in the UAE, where decentralised, preventive and integrated care models are gaining momentum. With a growing network, investment pipeline and focus on digital innovation, Aster Clinics UAE is positioned to play a significant role in shaping the future of primary healthcare delivery in the country.
Emirates just changed how you pay and travel: Here’s what it means for customers
The announcements highlight Emirates’ continued investment in digital technologies and integrated travel solutions, aligning with Dubai’s broader ambitions to become a global leader in fintech, digital payments and smart mobility
Emirates is accelerating its digital transformation strategy with two major customer-focused initiatives that expand payment flexibility and enhance travel rewards, reinforcing its commitment to innovation and seamless travel experiences.
The Dubai-based carrier has officially launched Crypto.com Pay on its digital platforms, enabling eligible customers in the UAE to pay for flight bookings using cryptocurrency through the secure payment solution. At the same time, Emirates Skywards has broadened its loyalty ecosystem by introducing Skywards Rail, giving members access to more than 12,000 rail destinations across Europe using their Skywards Miles.
Together, the announcements highlight Emirates’ continued investment in digital technologies and integrated travel solutions, aligning with Dubai’s broader ambitions to become a global leader in fintech, digital payments and smart mobility.
Customers with a Crypto.com account booking flights on emirates.com or through the Emirates App can now select Crypto.com Pay during checkout. Transactions are processed securely and in compliance with UAE regulatory standards. According to an Emirates Media report, the payment option is currently available to eligible UAE residents for bookings priced and settled in Emirati Dirhams (Dhs).
The launch represents the successful implementation of the partnership between Emirates and Crypto.com, first announced in July 2025 when the two companies signed a Memorandum of Understanding to explore integrating Crypto.com Pay into the airline’s digital payment infrastructure.
Image credit: Emirates/Website
Digital payments move from concept to reality
The rollout underscores Emirates’ focus on offering customers greater flexibility while responding to changing consumer preferences, particularly among digitally connected travelers.
“Bringing this initiative to life delivers on our commitment to expanding customer choice in how they pay for travel. It also reflects the rapidly evolving preferences of a younger, digitally fluent generation who manage their money and plan their journeys primarily from their phones and they expect the airlines they fly with to keep pace,” said Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ deputy president and chief commercial officer.
“Moving from signature to launch with Crypto.com in a year is a credit to both teams, and to a regulatory environment that makes this kind of innovation possible, reflecting the UAE’s and Dubai’s ambition to lead in fintech and the digital economy,” he added.
Eric Anziani, president and chief operating officer of Crypto.com, said the partnership represents a significant milestone for the company’s payment platform.
“Partnering with Emirates is a milestone for Crypto.com and our Pay feature, which is renowned for its ease of use and seamless integration,” Anziani said.
“This collaboration is a testament to the UAE’s forward thinking approach to innovation and we’re proud to support Emirates as it embraces the digital payments space.”
The integration is powered by Crypto.com’s Dubai entity, the first Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) to receive a Stored Value Facilities (SVF) licence from the Central Bank of the UAE. The service operates within the country’s regulated Stored Value Facilities framework, providing customers with a secure payment environment.
Image credit: Emirates/Website
Seamless checkout experience
Customers using the Emirates App can select Crypto.com Pay at checkout and will be redirected to the Crypto.com app to authorise payment from their digital wallet before returning to the Emirates App to receive their booking confirmation and e-ticket.
Desktop users booking through emirates.com can choose Crypto.com Pay during the payment stage, scan the QR code displayed on the booking page and approve the transaction through the Crypto.com app. Once payment is confirmed, customers receive their booking confirmation and e-ticket instantly.
The initiative also supports the Dubai Cashless Strategy under the D33 Economic Agenda, which aims to make 90% of all financial transactions across both government and private sectors digital by the end of 2026. It further builds on Emirates’ partnership with Dubai Finance to advance digital payment capabilities and complements Crypto.com’s collaboration with Dubai Finance to facilitate digital payments for government services.
Image credit: Emirates/Website
Emirates Skywards expands beyond air travel
Alongside its digital payments initiative, Emirates is also strengthening its award-winning loyalty programme by extending travel opportunities beyond flights.
Emirates Skywards has launched Skywards Rail, a new platform that allows members to redeem Skywards Miles for rail journeys across Europe. The service provides access to more than 12,000 destinations through over 40 rail operators spanning 12 European countries.
Accessible through the dedicated booking platform www.skywardsrail.com, members can search train schedules, compare cabin classes and ticket options, and complete bookings online or via mobile devices in five languages.
Customers can redeem their Miles for the full cost of a rail ticket or combine Cash + Miles for greater flexibility. The platform also enables members to book rail travel for family and friends, with electronic tickets delivered directly via email.
Dr Nejib Ben Khedher, divisional senior vice president of Emirates Skywards, said the launch reflects the airline’s ongoing efforts to increase the value and versatility of its loyalty programme.
“Our members are looking for more flexible ways to use their Skywards Miles, and Skywards Rail is another step in expanding the programme beyond air travel,” he said.
“By unlocking affordable access to more than 12,000 rail destinations across Europe, we’re giving members the freedom to create seamless journeys using Miles, whether that’s travelling between major cities, connecting onwards from an Emirates or flydubai flight, or discovering somewhere new. It’s all part of our commitment to offering more choice, greater value and rewarding travel experiences at every stage of the journey.”
Image credit: Emirates/Website
Wider travel choices for loyalty members
The new rail platform provides access to a broad network of domestic, international and high-speed rail services operated by some of Europe’s best-known rail companies, including Eurostar, Deutsche Bahn, SNCF, Trenitalia, TGV, Renfe and ÖBB. It also includes major UK operators such as Heathrow Express, Gatwick Express, Thameslink, Great Western Railway and ScotRail.
Members can redeem Skywards Miles on a range of popular routes, including Heathrow Express journeys from 4,700 Skywards Miles, Berlin to Frankfurt from 4,100 Miles, Barcelona to Madrid from 5,400 Miles, Rome to Milan from 8,100 Miles and London to Paris from 9,400 Miles.
The expansion reflects Emirates Skywards’ broader evolution into a lifestyle-focused loyalty programme, providing members with greater flexibility to use their rewards beyond traditional flight redemptions while supporting more integrated travel experiences across Europe.
Since its launch in 2000, Emirates Skywards has grown into one of the world’s leading airline loyalty programmes. Celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, the programme now serves more than 39 million members across 190 countries and continues to expand rapidly, with more than 78,000 new members joining every week.
As Emirates continues investing in digital innovation and expanding its customer ecosystem, the latest initiatives reinforce the airline’s strategy of combining advanced payment technologies with broader travel rewards to deliver greater convenience, flexibility and value for travelers worldwide.
Saudi Arabia says it struck Iran-backed groups in Iraq with US coordination
Saudi Arabia says it has carried out coordinated strikes with US forces against Iran-backed groups in Iraq following a wave of drone attacks targeting the kingdom’s oil infrastructure
Saudi Arabia said on Wednesday that its armed forces, in coordination with US Central Command (CENTCOM), carried out “targeted strikes” against Iran-backed groups in Iraq that it said were responsible for drone attacks on the kingdom’s oil facilities.
CENTCOM said the operation followed more than 30 drone attacks over the previous 72 hours that it said were “directed by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) against US forces and Saudi energy infrastructure”.
The Saudi Defence Ministry said the strikes targeted groups in Iraq that it accused of launching attacks on oil facilities in the kingdom’s Eastern Province. It said Riyadh was not seeking escalation but would respond to any “aggression”.
Iran denied involvement in attacks on Saudi targets. An unnamed military official, quoted by state broadcaster IRIB, said on Wednesday that attributing attacks on US interests in the region to Iran was a “major miscalculation”.
The announcement of the US-Saudi strikes came a few hours after Saudi Arabia said its air defences intercepted and destroyed several drones launched from Iraq. It was the second such attack in less than two days.
Saudi defence ministry spokesperson Turki al-Malki said on Tuesday the drones were launched by what he described as Iran-backed groups in Iraq, adding Riyadh reserved the right to respond “at the appropriate time and place”.
Two members of Iraq’s Popular Mobilization Forces were wounded when an air strike targeted the group’s command headquarters in the southern city of Basra, the force’s local directorate said on Wednesday, according to the Iraqi news agency INA.
The PMF, known in Arabic as Hashd al-Shaabi, is an umbrella group of mostly Shi’ite paramilitary factions that was formally integrated into Iraq’s state security forces and includes several groups aligned with Iran.
Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi ordered an investigation on Monday into the drone attacks, saying Iraq would not allow its territory to be used to launch attacks against neighbours.
Dubai’s August calendar is here: Star-studded concerts, dining deals await
With indoor venues offering comfortable summer escapes and attractions across the city hosting activities for all age groups, August is expected to be another vibrant month for Dubai’s tourism and retail
Dubai is set to offer residents and visitors a packed calendar of experiences throughout August, with a diverse programme spanning entertainment, dining, retail, sports and family-friendly activities.
From the ongoing Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) celebrations to international music performances, comedy shows, indoor fitness events and culinary experiences, Dubai Calendar’s August lineup showcases the city’s ability to deliver year-round experiences for every audience.
With indoor venues offering comfortable summer escapes and attractions across the city hosting activities for all age groups, August is expected to be another vibrant month for Dubai’s tourism, retail and entertainment sectors.
Retail and dining experiences take centre stage
Dubai Summer Surprises continues to drive summer activity across the city, offering residents and visitors opportunities to enjoy exclusive shopping deals, entertainment programmes and family experiences.
Dubai Summer Surprises Date: July 2– August 30, 2026 Location: Citywide
The annual summer celebration features retail promotions, raffle draws, hotel and attraction offers, and activities designed for families. The event continues to support Dubai’s retail and hospitality sectors by encouraging visitors to explore shopping destinations and leisure attractions throughout the summer season.
Food lovers can also enjoy specially curated dining experiences through Summer Restaurant Week, which runs until 2 August.
Summer Restaurant Week Date: Until August 2, 2026 Location: Citywide
The initiative brings together more than 50 casual and family-friendly restaurants, offering specially prepared menus featuring cuisines from around the world. Reservations are available through the Careem app via Careem DineOut.
Sports events bring indoor fitness opportunities
Dubai’s August calendar also features a strong lineup of sporting activities, allowing residents to stay active despite the summer temperatures.
Ibn Battuta Mall Indoor Run Series 3/5 Date: August 2, 2026 Location: Ibn Battuta Mall
The third event of the Ibn Battuta Mall Indoor Run Series will welcome runners of different abilities, with participants able to choose from 1km, 2.5km, 5km and 10km routes. Starting at 7:00am, the community-focused event aims to encourage fitness participation among beginners, experienced runners and families.
Dubai Sports World Date: Until August 25, 2026 Location: Dubai World Trade Centre
Dubai Sports World continues to provide an indoor destination for sports enthusiasts, featuring facilities for football, basketball, cricket, badminton, tennis and other activities. Visitors can book spaces for casual games or join sports academies to develop their skills.
Dubai Mallathon 2026 Date: Until September 15, 2026 Location: Citywide (participating malls)
The Dubai Mallathon transforms participating malls into indoor walking and running spaces, offering accessible fitness options for people of all ages. Participants can complete distances ranging from 2.5km to 10km at their own pace.
Endurance Games Date: August 30, 2026 Location: Hamdan Sports Complex
Making its debut this August, Endurance Games will bring together athletes and fitness enthusiasts for an indoor multisport competition featuring aquabike, aquathlon, triathlon, duathlon and the EndureX challenge.
Image credit: Supplied
Live entertainment lineup features regional and international talent
Dubai’s entertainment calendar will take centre stage in August with performances from leading musicians, comedians and cultural showcases.
The month begins with Beat The Heat DXB Season 5 ft Rasha Rizk on August 1, at Dubai World Trade Centre. The acclaimed Syrian singer will perform a selection of memorable songs, including works that have become popular across generations.
Comedy fans can enjoy The Laughter Factory from August 7–15, at multiple venues across Dubai. The show features international and regional comedians, including Ricky Balshaw, Tevin Everett, Abz Ali, Miqdaad Dohadwala and Andrea Brooks.
Arabic music will also feature prominently with A Night of Love and Tears on 8 August, bringing together Egyptian singer Ramy Gamal and Lebanese artist Wael Jassar for an evening of contemporary Arabic performances.
The Beat The Heat DXB series continues throughout the month with performances from artists including Al Shami, Marwan Moussa, Hleem, Sultan Al Murshed, Talal Sam, Aziz Maraka, Big Sam and Leg_cy.
Other major entertainment highlights include Thaalam Beats at Coca-Cola Arena, featuring Benny Dayal, Usha Uthup and Thaikkudam Bridge; Lucky Ali Live, celebrating the Indian singer-songwriter’s iconic hits; and JPEX Entertainment Exhibition, which showcases Japanese culture through anime, gaming, workshops and interactive experiences.
Image credit: Supplied
Comedy, culture and music close out the month
The final weeks of August will continue with a variety of performances across Dubai.
Indian comedian Sunil Grover will bring his popular comedy and character-based performances to Coca-Cola Arena on 21 August, while Syrian comedian Rami Jbr will make his Dubai debut with a stand-up performance on 28 August.
Atul Khatri will return to Dubai on August 29 with his observational comedy show at Emirates Theatre, while Kuwait’s Miami Band will present Miami Show 3.0 at Coca-Cola Arena, celebrating decades of regional musical influence.
With its combination of entertainment, sports, dining and lifestyle experiences, Dubai’s August calendar reinforces the city’s position as a leading global destination for events and leisure activities throughout the year.
More time, more deals: Sharjah Summer Promotions 2026 gets an extension
The campaign continues to offer shoppers the opportunity to win more than 700 prizes, with five digital prize draws taking place across four phases before the campaign concludes
The Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA), in collaboration with the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), has extended the Sharjah Summer Promotions 2026 campaign until Tuesday, September 15, giving residents and visitors additional time to take advantage of exclusive shopping offers, entertainment activities and prize draws.
The extension forms part of Sharjah’s ongoing efforts to enrich visitor experiences while strengthening the emirate’s reputation as a leading destination for families, shopping and tourism throughout the year, a WAM report said.
Participating shopping centres, including City Centre Al Zahia, Oasis Mall, Mega Mall, Al Suyoh Mall, Sahara Centre, Sharjah Central Mall, Kalba Mall, Al Rahmania Mall and 06 Mall, will continue hosting a range of entertainment activities. These include children’s workshops, appearances by the campaign mascot Shamsa, as well as Shamsa Mobile Store pop-ups featuring interactive experiences and exclusive promotional offers.
Officials highlight tourism and economic benefits
Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, chairman of the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority, said the extension reflects the authority’s commitment to reinforcing Sharjah’s position as a year-round destination by bringing together tourism, retail, hospitality and entertainment under one initiative.
He said, “Through our continued collaboration with the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry and our public and private sector partners, we are expanding visitor experiences, stimulating tourism and commercial activity, and reinforcing the emirate’s competitiveness as a diverse and sustainable tourism destination.”
Al Midfa added that this year’s campaign delivers a comprehensive programme featuring retail promotions, hospitality packages, tourism offers, family-focused activities and prize draws. He said the initiative is designed to encourage longer visitor stays, increase spending and showcase Sharjah’s unique blend of tourism, culture, leisure and entertainment.
More than 700 prizes up for grabs
The campaign continues to offer shoppers the opportunity to win more than 700 prizes, with five digital prize draws taking place across four phases before the campaign concludes. A total of 51 major prizes will be awarded, including a car provided by Al Ghandi Auto, 30 gold bars weighing 10 grams each, shopping vouchers and a variety of prizes from participating shopping centres.
Customers can enter the prize draws by shopping at participating malls and retail outlets or by booking stays at participating hotels through offers available on the Sharjah Summer Promotions website. The campaign’s final prize draw is scheduled to take place at 06 Mall on September 15.
Mohammed Ahmed Amin Al-Awadi, Director-General of the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said the extension reflects the strong partnership between SCCI and SCTDA in delivering an integrated summer programme that supports sustainable growth across Sharjah’s retail and commercial sectors.
He said the initiative enhances the competitiveness of shopping centres, strengthens consumer confidence and creates greater economic value for businesses. Al-Awadi added that combining retail offers with family entertainment, digital prize draws and the Shamsa mascot helps boost community engagement while delivering a more enjoyable visitor experience.
The campaign brings together hotels, shopping centres, retailers, restaurants, cafés, tour operators and entertainment destinations across the emirate, supporting tourism and commercial activity while reinforcing Sharjah’s position as a leading year-round destination for families and visitors.
