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 second economic incentives package worth Dh1.5bn, further strengthening Dubai’s efforts to support businesses and key sectors of the economy.

The latest package comes less than two months after the emirate announced an earlier Dh1bn support programme, bringing the total value of economic incentives introduced by Dubai to Dh2.5bn.

Read more-Dubai rolls out Dhs1bn support package: easing costs, boosting businesses

The newly approved package includes 33 initiatives that will be rolled out over periods ranging from three to 12 months.

Authorities said implementation timelines for each initiative will be announced by the relevant government entities overseeing the measures.

According to a Dubai Media Office report, the incentives span a broad range of sectors including tourism, trade, logistics, education, culture, construction, transport, real estate and government services.

Leadership vision drives economic support

Sheikh Hamdan said the new package reflects Dubai’s long-standing strategy of adapting quickly to changing economic conditions while maintaining growth momentum.

“Under the vision of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, Dubai has built a distinguished model for adapting to change and turning challenges into opportunities,” Sheikh Hamdan said.

“The close partnership between the public and private sectors places people first, and we continue to listen and respond to ideas and proposals that protect our achievements and ensure continued progress.”

He added that the emirate remains focused on strengthening economic resilience and supporting long-term development plans.

“We remain committed to providing the enablers that support the achievement of Dubai’s strategic plans and development programmes, while further strengthening the resilience that characterises our economy,” Sheikh Hamdan said.

“As part of these efforts, we approved the second package of economic facilitation measures worth Dh1.5bn, further strengthening the measures announced in late March.”

Education sector receives broad support

A significant portion of the incentives package targets Dubai’s education and early childhood sectors, with several relief measures introduced for institutions registered with the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA).

Private educational institutions will benefit from deferred and instalment-based licence renewal fees, along with the postponement of fines.

Meanwhile, early childhood centres registered with KHDA will receive exemptions from licence renewal fees, fines and Dubai Municipality market fees.

Additional support will be provided through the Knowledge Fund, which announced a range of measures aimed at easing financial pressures on affiliated institutions.

Early childhood centres will benefit from partial rent exemptions and extended rent-free periods for facilities currently under construction.

Educational institutions will also receive support through partial or full exemptions from guarantee insurance requirements for cancelled contracts. Authorities also announced the suspension of contractual penalty clauses, a freeze on scheduled rent increases at renewal, and deferred rental payments.

Relief for tourism, retail and events industries

Dubai’s tourism, retail and events sectors, among the industries most affected by economic disruption, are also set to benefit from a wide-ranging series of exemptions and fee reductions.

Establishments registered with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism will be exempt from the collection of Tourism Dirham charges and sales fees applied to hotel rooms and restaurants.

The package also includes exemptions from permit and licence fees for holiday homes, alongside exemptions from event permit charges and cancellation or postponement fees for exhibitions, conferences and events.

Businesses in the tourism sector will additionally benefit from exemptions on fees linked to sales and commercial promotions.

Authorities also announced reduced fees for tour guides and desert safari activities, while tourism companies and hotel establishments will receive deferred payments on e-link fees and classification charges.

Business community to gain financial flexibility

The Dubai Department of Finance announced measures aimed at improving liquidity and easing operational burdens for businesses working with government entities.

Under the new directives, the final retention security required for supply contracts will be reduced from 10 per cent to 2 per cent.

The government also raised the threshold for contracts eligible for exemption from final insurance requirements from Dh5m to Dh10m.

In another move aimed at supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for Small and Medium Enterprises Development said membership licences for companies expiring in 2026 will be extended by two additional years.

Authorities also confirmed targeted support for businesses facing temporary operational challenges.

These include desert safari and camping operators, marina-related businesses, aviation-linked activities, drone and fireworks companies, and event management firms.

Eligible companies will receive a one-time exemption from several fees administered by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism and Dubai Municipality, including market fees, employee accommodation allowance charges, general cleaning fees and foreign trade name fees.

Customs, transport and aviation measures introduced

Dubai Customs announced additional measures aimed at facilitating trade and easing financial pressure on importers.

Businesses will be allowed to pay outstanding amounts related to import customs declarations through instalment plans. Authorities also approved an 80 per cent reduction in fines linked to customs cases.

In the transport sector, establishments registered with the Roads and Transport Authority will benefit from deferred payments related to passenger activity sectors.

The authority also confirmed exemptions from violations tied to vehicle availability and arrival time performance indexes.

Dubai Civil Aviation Authority registered establishments will receive reductions in renewal fees for civil aviation activity permits, while late-renewal penalty fees will be suspended.

Real estate and construction sector support

The incentives package also includes measures aimed at supporting the construction and housing sectors.

Dubai Municipality will extend the validity of building permits for construction projects, providing developers with additional flexibility to complete projects.

The Mohammed bin Rashid Housing Establishment will also extend by one year the validity of approvals for housing construction loans granted to UAE nationals.

Dubai officials said the latest package reflects the emirate’s proactive approach to monitoring economic conditions and responding to the needs of businesses across multiple sectors.

Authorities said specialised working groups drawn from Dubai’s economic entities continue to assess challenges facing businesses, particularly small, medium and emerging enterprises.

The government said the ongoing reviews help shape targeted initiatives designed to support both current economic needs and future growth opportunities.

From pirate-themed beach adventures and live theatre to waterfront celebrations and cultural experiences, Sharjah’s Eid Al Adha calendar is shaping up to be packed with family-friendly experiences across the emirate.

Running from May 27 to 30, the programme by Sharjah Investment and Development Authority, better known as Shurooq, stretches across destinations including Al Qasba, Al Majaz Waterfront, Al Heera Beach and Khorfakkan Beach.

Here’s what families can expect this Eid.

1. Pirate-themed beach adventures are taking over Sharjah’s coastline

Children’s play zones at Al Heera Beach and Khorfakkan Beach will transform into immersive “Land of the Pirates” adventure areas during Eid.

Families can expect treasure-map workshops, pirate games, arts and crafts stations, roaming performers and interactive live entertainment throughout the four-day celebration. The activation will also include themed food and beverage offerings, turning both beaches into full-scale family entertainment hubs.

The pirate experiences will take place at Al Heera Beach’s Kids Area in Cluster 2 and Khorfakkan Beach’s Sadaf Kids Area.

2. Masrah Al Qasba is launching its 2026 theatre season with comedy and magic

Eid celebrations this year will also mark the official launch of Masrah Al Qasba’s 2026 live family theatre season.

Opening the programme is “Magic Phil: Staying Silly at Sea,” a family-focused production combining comedy, storytelling, illusion and audience interaction. The performances will run from May 27 to 30.

Beyond the theatre itself, Al Qasba will host themed Eid activities inspired by the show, extending the festive atmosphere across the destination.

For schedules and tickets, visitors can visit Platinumlist UAE.

3. Al Majaz Waterfront is going all in on family entertainment

At Al Majaz Waterfront, families can expect a lively open-air atmosphere centred around the Kids Play Area and Splash Park.

The waterfront destination will feature rides, games, live entertainment and children’s activities throughout the Eid holiday. Visitors will also be able to catch performances at the Sharjah Musical Fountain and take wooden abra rides through the lagoon with Sharjah Boats.

The mix of water views, entertainment and casual outdoor experiences makes it one of the more relaxed Eid destinations for families looking to spend extended evenings outdoors.

4. A beachfront book fair is bringing a quieter cultural side to Eid

For visitors looking for something less high-energy, Al Heera Beach will also host “Books by Al Heera Beach,” a mini beachfront book fair organised in collaboration with Bookends.

Open daily from 5pm to 10pm during Eid, the initiative will allow families to exchange books free of charge and browse affordable titles starting from AED5.

The programme will also feature children’s storytelling sessions, including live storytelling with an author at 7:30pm.

5. UAE heritage and community experiences will be part of the festivities

The “Proud of UAE” initiative will introduce a community-focused layer to the Eid celebrations across Shurooq destinations.

The programme includes traditional performances, face painting, wall art activities, drawing workshops, a 360-degree photo booth experience and a UAE National Pride Gallery designed to celebrate culture and identity through interactive family experiences.

Rather than functioning as standalone entertainment, the initiative appears aimed at weaving Emirati cultural elements into the wider holiday atmosphere.

6. Families can turn Eid into a full Sharjah staycation

Beyond the main Eid programming, families can also extend their holiday plans across other Shurooq destinations around the emirate.

Options include Al Noor Island, Al Montazah Parks and Mleiha National Park, alongside Shurooq-operated hotels and nature retreats offering Eid experiences.

The broader strategy reflects Sharjah’s continued push to position itself as a family-oriented tourism destination with a strong mix of leisure, culture and outdoor attractions.

7. The entire programme is designed as one connected Eid experience

Rather than concentrating festivities in one venue, Shurooq’s Eid strategy this year spreads activities across multiple waterfronts and public destinations throughout Sharjah.

The approach allows families to move between theatre experiences, beach activities, cultural events and outdoor entertainment during the holiday period, creating what the authority describes as a connected celebration across the emirate.

More details on the Eid programme are available through Discover Shurooq Events.

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has rolled out an enhanced Seasonal Network initiative for marine transport services, introducing artificial intelligence and predictive analytics to improve operational efficiency and respond more effectively to passenger demand across the emirate.

The initiative is designed to strengthen the flexibility of Dubai’s marine transport network during busy travel periods, including public holidays, tourism seasons and major events, according to a WAM report.

The move forms part of the RTA’s wider strategy to modernise marine public transport services and improve integration with other transport modes across Dubai, as the city continues to witness rapid urban and tourism growth.

Officials said the summer operating plan will come into effect in July and will rely on an integrated big-data system that tracks passenger volumes, occupancy rates and operational revenues. The system is expected to improve forecasting accuracy and support faster operational decision-making.

AI-powered analytics to drive operational planning

Khalaf Belghuzooz Al Zarooni, Director of Marine Transport at RTA’s Public Transport Agency, said the initiative was developed using advanced in-house algorithms and AI-powered analytical tools capable of processing large volumes of operational data from multiple sources.

“The Seasonal Network was developed using advanced in-house algorithms and AI-powered analytical and predictive tools capable of processing and analysing big data from multiple sources,” Al Zarooni said.

“These tools support flexible and dynamic operating plans for the marine transport network. They also help forecast future demand and apply season-specific operating models, striking a balance between meeting customers’ needs and enhancing operational efficiency.”

He added that customer feedback remains a key component in shaping the network’s operations and service planning.

“The network’s development integrates the human element and customer needs alongside the technical dimension,” he said, noting that customer suggestions submitted through approved channels are incorporated into service design and operational planning.

Flexible model designed for future demand

According to Al Zarooni, predictive analytics played a major role in assessing travel patterns and evaluating how different variables affect schedules, service frequency and operational performance.

“The project methodology used predictive analytics to study marine transport usage patterns and assess the impact of different variables on operating schedules and service headways,” he said.

He added that modern computing applications and big-data analytics have enabled the RTA to develop a flexible operating model capable of simulating customer behaviour and forecasting future demand.

The Seasonal Network initiative is implemented separately for each season to ensure uninterrupted customer service while supporting the long-term operational and financial sustainability of Dubai’s marine transport sector.

Dubai is pushing ahead with its plans to integrate drone-based logistics into everyday urban life, with new partnerships extending aerial delivery services from public parks and beaches to private residential communities.

Dubai Municipality has signed an agreement with Keeta Drone to launch drone delivery services across selected public parks and beaches, marking one of the city’s most visible steps yet toward embedding aerial logistics into public infrastructure.

The initiative will enable visitors to place food and beverage orders, access essential items, and use on-demand services via drones, aiming to reduce delivery times and improve convenience in high-footfall leisure destinations.

Officials said the project is part of Dubai’s wider strategy to build smarter, more connected urban environments and test scalable models for future mobility systems across the city.

Bader Anwahi, CEO of the Public Facilities Agency at Dubai Municipality, said the collaboration reflects efforts to design “future-ready public spaces” built around accessibility and convenience.

Keeta Drone President Dr Yinian Mao said the aim is to integrate delivery systems into the rhythm of daily life. “We are exploring how aerial delivery can bring services closer to people in parks and beaches safely and seamlessly,” he said.

Under the agreement, Dubai Municipality will identify and support suitable locations for drone operations, while Keeta Drone will design aerial routes and conduct technical and safety assessments. Initial activations are expected to begin later this year in selected locations.

Read: Keeta Drone’s Junwei Yang on building drone delivery into urban life

Keeta, Sobha sign MoU to introduce drones to support faster last-mile delivery for residents

In a parallel move, Keeta Drone recently signed a memorandum of understanding with Sobha Realty to introduce drone delivery networks within its residential communities, starting with Sobha Hartland.

The partnership positions Sobha Realty as Keeta Drone’s first Smart Community partner in the UAE, with plans to embed aerial logistics into community infrastructure to support faster last-mile delivery for residents.

Sobha Realty MD Francis Alfred said the collaboration reflects a shift in how residential environments are designed. “This is about reimagining how communities function in a rapidly evolving urban landscape,” he said, adding that the company’s vertically integrated model enables the deployment of new technologies at scale.

The agreement was signed in the presence of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, which said it supports the responsible rollout of air delivery systems within regulated frameworks.

The partnerships form part of a broader deployment roadmap for Keeta across the UAE and international markets, as demand grows for faster, lower-emission last-mile logistics in dense urban environments.

This Eid Al Adha, Dubai Retail, one of the region’s largest groups of malls and retail destinations under Dubai Holding Asset Management, is rolling out an extensive citywide programme of cultural performances, entertainment experiences, dining offers, fitness and wellness activations, and seasonal retail rewards across its destinations, turning key locations across Dubai into festive community hubs throughout the holiday period.

Read: Dubai rolls out Eid Al Adha staycation offers, family events from May 22-31

From heritage-inspired promenades and waterfront destinations to neighbourhood centres and major lifestyle hubs, each location is set to reflect the spirit of Eid Al Adha through experiences built around celebration, togetherness, and family engagement.

Read more-Eid Al Adha 2026: UAE announces holidays for private sector

As part of the Eid Al Adha festivities, Dubai Retail destinations will host live traditional Emirati performances including Al Ayala shows, Al Harbiya band performances, and selected falconry displays. These cultural showcases are among the most recognised expressions of UAE heritage and will appear across multiple destinations throughout the long weekend.

Live performances will run daily between 4:00pm and 10:00pm across participating locations, with schedules as follows:

• 1st day of Eid: The Outlet Village, Ibn Battuta Mall (5:30pm to 8:30pm), Al Khawaneej Walk, and Souk Madinat Jumeirah (1:00pm to 5:00pm)
• 2nd day of Eid: Circle Mall, Nad Al Sheba Mall, Palm Jumeirah Mall (4:30pm – 9:30pm), Ibn Battuta Mall (5:30pm to 8:30pm), Al Khawaneej Walk, Souk Madinat Jumeirah (1:00pm to 5:00pm), and Bluewaters (6:20pm to 10:30pm across 4 sets)
• 3rd day of Eid: Bluewaters (6:20pm to 10:30pm across 4 sets) and Souk Madinat Jumeirah (1:00pm to 5:00pm)

Versus 3.0 returns to Ibn Battuta Mall with gaming, robotics, and interactive fun

One of this year’s headline attractions is the return of Versus 3.0 at Ibn Battuta Mall, developed in collaboration with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism. The gaming-led experience returns in an expanded format, blending Eid festivities with Dubai’s rapidly growing e-gaming culture.

Located at Egypt Court, Ibn Battuta Mall, the activation will run from May 22 to 31, between 2:00pm and 10:00pm, with free entry for visitors.

Guests can explore a wide range of interactive experiences, including console gaming, robotics zones, face painting, Pixicade workshops, AI booths, and challenges such as Catch the Baton. Visitors will also receive Eid-themed giveaways featuring exclusive retail offers, with additional information available at the information desks in China Court and Tunisia Court.

Dining experiences spotlight Eid celebrations across the city

Food lovers will find a wide range of festive dining experiences across Al Khawaneej Walk, Bluewaters, and Souk Madinat Jumeirah.

At Al Khawaneej Walk, Temple Creamery will offer complimentary ice cream during selected hours across the holiday period in collaboration with the destination.

At Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Taverna Greek Restaurant is inviting groups of five or more to celebrate Eid with its curated “Anasa” set menu, featuring Mediterranean dishes such as Flaming Cheese Saganaki, Greek-style chicken, and slow-roasted lamb shoulder, priced at Dhs1,500.

Also at Souk Madinat Jumeirah, The Meat Co is offering group dining packages for parties of 15 or more, with five curated menus ranging from Dhs380 to Dhs570 per person.

The selection includes signature dishes such as Grain-Fed Beef New Yorker and Salmon Fillet, alongside starters like Red Chilli Prawns and Seared Scallops, and desserts including Chocolate & Pistachio Fondant and Brie Cheesecake.

At Bluewaters, The Spaniel is offering 30 per cent off à la carte dining from 5pm throughout Eid Al Adha, featuring dishes such as Shepherd’s Pie, Chicken Kiev, Cod Tikka Masala, and a signature Caviar Burger.

Meanwhile, Barbar and Drinkit at Bay Avenue will offer combo deals starting from Dhs29.

Family entertainment across malls and lifestyle destinations

Families will find a wide selection of entertainment options across Ibn Battuta Mall, Circle Mall, Palm Jumeirah Mall, and Bluewaters.

At Ibn Battuta Mall, Skyzone is offering toddlers two hours of play for Dhs69, with VIP premium access available for children 110 cm and above. Fun City is offering unlimited monthly access for Dhs175, Fun Pass Pro packages from Dhs129, Dhs1 entry days on Tuesdays, and birthday packages starting at Dhs99.

At Circle Mall, The Zone will host creative workshops such as Messy Fun and Creative Club sessions starting from Dhs40 per child, and Arty Mania experiences at Dhs55. ROXY Cinema is offering tickets at Dhs52 on weekdays and Dhs56 on weekends, while Orange Wheels is providing a 50 per cent discount on Stay & Play every Tuesday.

At Bluewaters, Illusion City is offering 30 per cent off total ticket bills through a social media activation running from May 25 to May 31.

At Palm Jumeirah Mall and Nad Al Sheba Mall, the Dubai Esports & Gaming Festival will feature a live sim racing activation from May 22 to 31, allowing visitors to compete on professional racing simulators and climb leaderboards.

Retail offers deliver major Eid discounts across Dubai

Shoppers can expect major savings across Boxpark, Ibn Battuta Mall, and The Outlet Village, with discounts reaching up to 90 per cent.

At The Outlet Village, brands including Cerruti and Coach are offering 30 per cent off storewide, while BOSS, HUGO, Michael Kors, and Polo Ralph Lauren are offering up to 60 per cent off. Additional brands such as Armani, Diesel, Guess, Calvin Klein, Lacoste, Tommy Hilfiger, and Nike are offering discounts of up to 75 per cent.

Further offers include Buy 1 Get 1 deals from Columbia, Converse, Timberland, and GAP, while Levi’s items are priced at Dhs199 and below. Beverly Hills Polo Club starts from Dhs99.

At Ibn Battuta Mall, Columbia, Nike, Timberland, and Crocs are offering 30 per cent off storewide, while American Eagle has up to 50 per cent off and Vero Moda up to 60 per cent. Adidas Outlet is offering an additional 40 per cent off already reduced prices.

Galeries Lafayette L’Outlet leads with discounts of up to 90 per cent, while Pandora offers a 3-for-2 promotion across selected collections.

At Boxpark, Dantone Home is running a “Proud of UAE” sale with up to 50 per cent off premium furniture.

Health, wellness, and beauty offers across Bluewaters and Circle Mall

Wellness-focused activations will also feature prominently across Dubai Retail destinations.

At Bluewaters, Range Gym is offering a Family Wellness package with 20 per cent off selected memberships for groups of two or more until May 31 using the code “FAMILY”.

At Circle Mall, Revival Clinic is offering Eid pricing on Hydrafacial treatments and Botox starting from Dhs300, along with an unlimited laser package for Dhs2,899 over five months. Plushtan is offering tanning packages from Dhs200, plus discounts on lotions and buy-one-get-one offers.

Contrast is offering up to 50 per cent off first treatments, while GlowTerra is running a Buy 2 Get 1 deal on skincare products. Star Kids is offering children’s spa experiences starting from Dhs149, and Pious Therapy is offering time-based discounts throughout the week.

Spend & Win campaign adds seasonal rewards across Dubai Retail destinations

Dubai Retail, in collaboration with Dubai Shopping Malls Group (DSMG), is also launching a Spend & Win promotion from May 18 to 31.

Shoppers spending Dhs200 at participating malls will be entered into a digital raffle to win a share of Dhs200,000 in cash prizes.

A total of 25 winners will be selected, with five winners receiving Dhs15,000, five receiving Dhs10,000, and 15 receiving Dhs5,000. Draws will take place on May 30 and June 1.

Participating locations include Souk Al Seef, Bay Avenue, Villanova Centre, Serena Centre, Shorooq Centre, Mudon Centre, and Al Khail Gate Centre.

Abu Dhabi enhances Eid atmosphere with 3,800 light displays

In a separate Eid initiative, Abu Dhabi Municipality has installed 3,800 decorative light displays across Abu Dhabi Island and mainland areas ahead of Eid Al Adha.

Abu Dhabi City Municipality has installed 3,800 decorative light displays across Abu Dhabi Island and mainland cities ahead of Eid Al Adha, as part of efforts to mark the holiday and enhance the capital’s urban landscape.

The project, carried out in collaboration with the Department of Culture and Tourism, Abu Dhabi, includes illuminated festive messages and geometric designs inspired by Islamic art and calligraphy, a WAM report said.

Khaled Allaq Al Hammadi, Project Monitoring Manager at Abu Dhabi City Municipality, said the initiative reflects the municipality’s commitment to improving quality of life and reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s urban identity by combining cultural heritage with modern design.

The decorations feature phrases including “Eid Mubarak” and “Wishing You Well Every Year”, alongside lighting structures ranging from 2 to 4 metres in size.

The municipality said all installations were designed to meet safety and environmental standards, using energy-efficient lighting and recyclable materials resistant to weather conditions. Continuous monitoring is being carried out by specialised technical teams to ensure quality and performance.