du, the UAE’s leading telecom and digital services provider, has joined ‘SME in a Box’ as its official telecommunications partner, strengthening support for the country’s growing entrepreneurial ecosystem through tailored connectivity and digital solutions.

The flagship initiative, led by the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and Dubai SME, brings together more than 17 partners spanning banking, e-commerce, payments and other key business services. The programme is designed to simplify the process of launching and scaling businesses across Dubai and the wider UAE.

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Through its du Business portfolio, du will provide customised connectivity solutions to startups, freelancers, entrepreneurs and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that hold a valid trade licence issued by DET or Dubai SME. The offering is aimed at helping businesses establish a strong digital presence while accelerating their growth journeys.

Tailored Connectivity and Digital Services

As the initiative’s telco services partner, du will offer a range of Business Mobile Plans featuring exclusive benefits for ‘SME in a Box’ customers. The company will also provide flexible fixed connectivity solutions designed to help businesses adopt digital tools quickly and cost-effectively.

Participating businesses will receive a premium 5G-enabled router offering high-speed connectivity and unlimited internet usage. The package also includes access to key business services such as Microsoft 365, a .ae domain and enhanced security features, enabling companies to build and manage their digital operations more efficiently.

Commenting on the partnership, Karim Benkirane, Chief Commercial Officer at du, said: “‘SME in a Box’ is a forward-thinking initiative that helps businesses in the UAE scale faster and smarter. As the telco services partner, du ensures seamless connectivity for entrepreneurs and SMEs aiming to establish and grow their presence in Dubai. Our offers are designed to give businesses an immediate digital advantage, with the flexibility to diversify as their needs evolve.”

Supporting Dubai’s D33 Vision

The partnership underscores du’s customer-centric strategy and commitment to supporting SMEs through streamlined onboarding, scalable services and flexible digital solutions.

By providing access to affordable infrastructure, operational tools and a broad partner ecosystem, du aims to help businesses establish a strong digital foundation from day one.

Meanwhile, ‘SME in a Box’ continues to bring together pre-vetted service providers to reduce the complexity, time, cost and friction associated with setting up and operating a business in Dubai. The initiative aligns with Dubai’s D33 economic agenda by lowering barriers to entrepreneurship, reducing the cost of doing business, accelerating scalability and reinforcing the emirate’s position as a global hub for business, investment and innovation.

Shipowners will not resume transit through the Strait of Hormuz for weeks until they are confident that the US-Iran deal is “material”, the chief executive of Japan’s Mitsui O.S.K. Lines told the Financial Times in an interview published on Tuesday.

The Iran war that began on February 28 with US-Israeli strikes largely stopped shipping through the transit route for around a fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas supply, along with products such as aluminium and urea.

Mitsui O.S.K., one of Japan’s big three shipping firms has a fleet of more than 900 vessels, including bulk carriers, tankers and ferries.

“What will have to come in place is not just a simple agreement between the relevant countries, but it has to be material and translated into the real situations in the Strait of Hormuz, so that shipping lines can make themselves comfortable to go through,” Mitsui O.S.K.’s Jotaro Tamura told FT before U.S President Donald Trump announced a deal to end the war in Iran.

“Given the experiences in the last couple of months, I think it’s reasonable to assume that it may take at least a couple of weeks or if not a month,” Tamura told the paper.

The agreement between Washington and Tehran being finalised had not changed Tamura’s view, the FT report said.

President Donald Trump said in a Truth Social post that ships loaded with oil are starting to move out of the strait, “going along the Southern ‘Highway,’ which is totally safe, secure, and pristine”.

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has approved an ambitious five-year plan to construct 31 new pedestrian bridges and tunnels across strategic locations in the emirate between 2026 and 2030, reinforcing the city’s commitment to safer, more sustainable mobility.

The new infrastructure programme forms part of Dubai’s broader efforts to improve pedestrian accessibility, strengthen connections to public transport, and support the growing use of cycling and other soft mobility options. The selected locations were identified following detailed technical and field studies that assessed population density, land-use integration, proximity to economic and tourism hubs, and connectivity with public transport stations.

The initiative is expected to improve traffic flow, enhance pedestrian safety, and provide safer crossings for pedestrians and cyclists throughout the city.

According to the RTA, the upcoming projects will be delivered across several key corridors, including Sheikh Zayed Road, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street, Al Ittihad Road, and Omar bin Al Khattab Street.

Supporting Dubai’s vision for safer and sustainable transport

Mattar Al Tayer, director-general, chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority, said the continued expansion of pedestrian infrastructure aligns with Dubai’s long-term vision of creating a safer and more accessible transport network for all road users.

He noted that the programme reflects the leadership’s commitment to enhancing traffic safety while promoting sustainable mobility solutions that contribute to residents’ quality of life and overall wellbeing.

Al Tayer said, “The continued expansion of pedestrian bridge infrastructure reflects the directives of the wise leadership to enhance traffic safety, provide a safe and sustainable mobility environment for all road users, and make Dubai a pedestrian and cyclist-friendly city.”

He added that the initiative also supports Dubai’s broader quality-of-life agenda while contributing to the happiness and wellbeing of residents and visitors alike, according to a WAM report.

Network expansion delivers significant safety improvements

The latest announcement highlights the rapid growth of Dubai’s pedestrian infrastructure over the past two decades.

According to Al Tayer, the number of pedestrian bridges and tunnels across Dubai has increased from just 26 in 2006 to 178 by the end of 2025, representing growth of 585 per cent.

The additional 31 pedestrian bridges and tunnels planned by 2030 are expected to further strengthen the city’s integrated mobility network and support increasing demand for safe pedestrian movement.

Al Tayer said, “Existing and planned pedestrian bridges form an integrated pathway network linking residential communities across Dubai with key destinations and encouraging residents to use sustainable soft mobility modes for first and last-mile journeys.”

The infrastructure has also contributed significantly to improved road safety outcomes across the emirate.

“Pedestrian bridges and tunnels have played a significant role in enhancing traffic safety, with the pedestrian fatality rate falling from 9.5 deaths per 100,000 population in 2007 to 0.22 deaths in 2025, a decline of 98%,” he said.

Rising demand for walking and cycling

Beyond safety improvements, Dubai has recorded notable increases in the use of pedestrian and cycling infrastructure.

Al Tayer pointed to strong growth across several key mobility indicators in recent years.

“They have also contributed to measurable gains across key indicators, with residents’ satisfaction with Dubai’s pedestrian infrastructure reaching 88 per cent, pedestrian trips increasing from 307 million in 2023 to 326 million in 2025, a rise of 6 per cent, and cycling trips increasing from 46.6 million in 2024 to 57.3 million in 2025, a rise of 23 per cent,” he said.

The figures underscore Dubai’s growing focus on active mobility and sustainable transport options as part of its wider urban development strategy.

Three new bridges recently completed

The RTA has already completed three major pedestrian and cycling bridges as part of its ongoing investment in mobility infrastructure.

Two of the newly completed structures are located on Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Khail Road, providing important links for pedestrian, cycling, and e-scooter users across Al Sufouh and Dubai Hills, while extending connectivity through Dubai Internet City, Barsha Heights, and Al Barsha 3.

Both bridges feature distinctive architectural designs inspired by their surrounding environments.

The Sheikh Zayed Road bridge incorporates themes of interconnection and continuity through a series of interwoven lines. Its open structural design also offers users panoramic views of nearby towers and Dubai’s skyline.

Meanwhile, the Al Khail Road bridge draws inspiration from the light patterns created by the sun’s rays, creating a smooth and visually appealing pathway designed to provide pedestrians and cyclists with a quieter, more comfortable experience away from traffic noise.

The Sheikh Zayed Road bridge spans 528 metres, while the Al Khail Road bridge extends 501 metres. Both structures are five metres wide and include a dedicated three-metre lane for bicycles and e-scooters alongside a two-metre pedestrian walkway.

The third completed bridge is located on Al Manara Street within the Al Quoz Creative Zone. Designed to facilitate pedestrian and cyclist movement within the district and to nearby attractions, the bridge incorporates visual elements that complement the creative zone’s identity.

The structure measures 45 metres in length and 5.5 metres in width, with a six-metre clearance above road level. It also includes two access ramps extending 210 metres on either side.

Major projects under construction

The RTA is currently developing three additional pedestrian bridges, including two that rank among the largest pedestrian and cycling bridges in Dubai.

The first is being constructed on Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road at the Tunis Street–Al Nahda intersection. The project will connect Muhaisnah 1 with Al Twar and extend towards Al Mamzar Beach, creating an important link for residents and visitors.

The bridge will span 554 metres, measure 5.6 metres in width, and provide a clearance of 12.5 metres above Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road.

A second major project will cross Dubai–Al Ain Road, linking Wadi Al Safa 4, known as Liwan, with Nad Hessa in Dubai Silicon Oasis. The bridge will extend 730 metres in length and 5.6 metres in width, with a clearance of 7.8 metres above the roadway.

The third structure forms part of the Al Mustaqbal Street Development Project. Located on Al Sukook Street, the bridge has been designed to complement the urban character of Dubai’s Central Business District.

The bridge will measure 44 metres in length, 4.6 metres in width, and 6.5 metres in height. It will also feature lifts, staircases, and a dedicated electromechanical systems room.

All three projects are expected to be completed during the first quarter of 2027.

Zero fatalities goal remains central focus

The RTA said pedestrian safety remains a cornerstone of Dubai’s safe and sustainable transport strategy.

The expansion of the pedestrian and cycling bridge network supports the objectives of the Dubai Traffic Safety Strategy, which aims to achieve Zero Fatalities and position Dubai among the world’s leading cities for traffic safety performance.

As part of that effort, the authority continues to adopt international best practices in bridge design and construction while incorporating creative architectural features.

The bridges are equipped with advanced technologies, including electromechanical systems, alarm and fire-fighting equipment, remote monitoring capabilities, and a range of safety and security features. Selected bridges also include dedicated cycling tracks and bicycle parking facilities, further encouraging the adoption of sustainable transport options.

Dubai has marked a major step forward in the development of Al Maktoum International Airport, with officials confirming that the first phase of the landmark project is progressing according to schedule and remains on track to begin operations in 2032.

The Dubai Government said substantial progress has been achieved across multiple development streams, including enabling works, runway infrastructure, and the initial structural foundations for passenger terminals and aircraft gates.

Preparations have also been completed for the tendering and award of several major contracts that will support the next phase of construction, a Dubai Media Office report said.

The latest update highlights the momentum behind one of Dubai’s most ambitious infrastructure projects, which is expected to play a central role in supporting the emirate’s long-term economic growth, strengthening global connectivity, and expanding the capacity of its aviation and logistics sectors.

Strategic project advances on schedule

The development of Al Maktoum International Airport forms a cornerstone of Dubai’s broader vision to build future-ready infrastructure capable of supporting continued growth across trade, tourism, logistics, and transportation.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, praised the team overseeing the project under the guidance of Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Airports, chairman of Dubai Aviation City Corporation, and chairman of Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects.

According to Sheikh Hamdan, the airport’s development reflects Dubai’s long-term ambition to create advanced infrastructure that supports sustainable economic expansion while reinforcing the emirate’s competitiveness on the global stage.

He said the project represents a strategic investment in Dubai’s future and a significant step in advancing the emirate’s sustainable development agenda.

Sheikh Hamdan noted that the airport is part of an integrated vision designed to anticipate future growth requirements and provide infrastructure capable of adapting to global economic and technological shifts. He added that the project will enhance Dubai’s readiness to capitalise on emerging opportunities across key sectors.

“A key enabler of the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, the Al Maktoum International Airport project will expand the aviation sector’s capacity and enhance the efficiency of the emirate’s transport and logistics ecosystem. This will attract high-value investments, broaden business activity, and create sustainable economic opportunities that will support Dubai’s development journey for decades to come,” Sheikh Hamdan said.

Dhs13bn in contracts already under execution

The project has now entered a large-scale construction phase, according to Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, who highlighted the significant progress achieved across the development programme.

He said the airport remains one of Dubai’s most important strategic projects and will serve as a major driver of economic growth in the years ahead.

“Al Maktoum International Airport is one of the most significant strategic projects shaping Dubai’s economic future. It embodies our leadership’s long-term vision of investing in world-class infrastructure capable of accommodating the rapid growth in travel, trade, and logistics,” Sheikh Ahmed said.

He noted that contracts worth Dhs13bn are currently under execution, while preparations are underway to award additional strategic projects valued at more than Dhs55bn during the next phase of development.

“The project’s transition into a large-scale construction phase, with contracts valued at Dhs13bn currently under execution and preparations underway to award strategic projects worth more than Dhs55bn during the next phase, reflects the substantial progress achieved and the strong momentum driving the development,” he added.

Looking ahead, Sheikh Ahmed said the completed airport will play a key role in advancing the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 while strengthening Dubai’s position as a leading global centre for trade, tourism, logistics, and international connectivity.

“Upon completion, Al Maktoum International Airport will serve as a key pillar in advancing the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, and strengthening Dubai’s position as a leading global hub for trade, tourism, logistics, and international connectivity. The project will further enhance the emirate’s future readiness and reinforce the aviation sector’s contribution to sustainable economic growth for decades to come,” he said.

Supporting Dubai’s long-term economic vision

Abdulrahman Saleh Al Saleh, director general of Dubai Finance, described the project as a reflection of Dubai’s forward-looking strategy to strengthen its position as a global centre for commerce and logistics.

He referenced the description of the project by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, who referred to Al Maktoum International Airport as “our new global airport”.

According to Al Saleh, the project demonstrates Dubai’s commitment to creating an integrated ecosystem built around operational excellence, sustainability, and future readiness.

He added that continued investment in major infrastructure projects supports public financial sustainability while stimulating growth across a broad range of strategic sectors.

“This project represents a key pillar of the Dubai Government’s strategy to strengthen financial sustainability through the development of sovereign assets capable of generating long-term value and attracting high-quality regional and international investments,” Al Saleh said.

“The progress achieved also reflects the Government of Dubai’s commitment to delivering major projects in accordance with the highest standards of governance and financial discipline, ensuring a balance between ambitious development objectives and efficient resource allocation. This, in turn, reinforces investor and international partner confidence in the resilience of Dubai’s economy and its ability to navigate global transformations with confidence and agility.”

Building an integrated aviation ecosystem

Khalifa Al Zaffin, executive chairman of Dubai Aviation City Corporation, said the airport is being developed as a transformational platform that extends beyond traditional aviation infrastructure.

He described the project as a cornerstone of Dubai’s future aviation strategy and a catalyst for long-term competitiveness and economic growth.

According to Al Zaffin, efforts are continuing to establish a fully integrated operating model capable of accommodating future increases in passenger and cargo traffic while maintaining high levels of efficiency and innovation.

“Al Maktoum International Airport is far more than an expansion of aviation infrastructure; it is a fully integrated global platform that will redefine the future of travel and logistics,” Al Zaffin said.

“The airport is being designed to deliver a seamless, intelligent, and customer-centric experience powered by advanced technologies, integrated automation, operational intelligence, and seamless connectivity across airport systems and transport networks.”

He added that planning is also focused on ensuring a smooth transition of operations from Dubai International Airport to Al Maktoum International Airport once the new facility becomes operational.

“At the same time, we are working to ensure a smooth and carefully managed transition of operations from Dubai International Airport to the new airport, safeguarding the world-class service standards for which Dubai is renowned, while enhancing our capacity to accommodate sustained growth with exceptional efficiency, agility, and resilience,” he said.

Major construction activity underway

Engineer Suzanne Al Anani, CEO of Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects, said construction activity continues to advance rapidly, with development packages currently under execution valued at more than Dhs13bn.

She outlined several major achievements already completed across the project site.

According to Al Anani, more than 17,000 concrete piles have been installed, while excavation works have surpassed 45 million cubic metres. The second runway has also been completed in preparation for the rehabilitation of the existing runway.

In addition, work is progressing on the core infrastructure package, which includes approximately 4.5 million cubic metres of concrete construction.

The scale of activity reflects the pace at which the project is moving through its current delivery phase.

Al Anani said total work hours have exceeded 10 million during the past 15 months, while the workforce currently stands at around 9,000 personnel.

That figure is expected to rise significantly as construction intensifies.

“The on-site workforce, currently around 9,000, is expected to rise to approximately 120,000 when the project reaches peak construction capacity,” she said.

Dhs55bn worth of new packages planned

The coming months are expected to represent a critical stage in the airport’s development, with a series of major contract awards scheduled before the end of the year.

Al Anani said preparations are underway to award packages with a combined value exceeding Dhs55bn.

These contracts include substructure works for the Western Passenger Terminal, construction of the fourth aircraft concourse building, implementation of the Automated People Mover system, and installation of the Baggage Handling System.

Additional packages will cover superstructure works for the Western Passenger Terminal and the first three aircraft concourses.

The next phase will also include long-span structural frameworks covering approximately 1.5 million square metres, infrastructure works across the southern airfield area, and the development of power generation and district cooling facilities required to support the broader construction programme.

“The award of façade and roofing packages is also planned during the course of this year, reflecting the continued progress of the project and the steady advancement of its delivery milestones in line with the approved timeline,” Al Anani added.

Set to become the world’s largest aviation hub

Upon completion of its final phase, Al Maktoum International Airport is expected to become the world’s largest aviation hub.

Plans call for annual passenger capacity to exceed 260 million travellers, alongside the ability to handle 12 million tonnes of air cargo each year.

The airport will feature five independently operating parallel runways, two passenger terminals, and seven concourses linked to more than 430 aircraft stands.

An integrated Automated People Mover system will connect key facilities across the airport, while multimodal transport links will integrate air, rail, and road networks.

These capabilities are expected to significantly strengthen Dubai’s role as a global gateway for commerce, tourism, logistics, and international travel.

Wider aviation infrastructure programme continues

Alongside the Al Maktoum International Airport development, Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects is continuing a broader programme aimed at modernising and expanding aviation infrastructure across the emirate.

The initiative includes upgrades at both Dubai International Airport and Dubai World Central as part of a long-term strategy to improve operational efficiency, increase capacity, and enhance the passenger experience.

At Dubai World Central, ongoing projects include the expansion and modernisation of the passenger terminal and related boarding facilities connected to the existing terminal. The upgrades are intended to support flydubai’s growth plans, including the future introduction of wide-body Boeing 787 aircraft.

At Dubai International Airport, several improvement projects are already underway, including enhancements to the Terminal 3 access bridge, upgrades to road networks serving Terminals 1 and 3, and airfield improvements designed to increase operational flexibility.

The programme also includes the expansion and modernisation of remote aircraft boarding facilities and baggage handling systems.

A total budget of Dhs16bn has been allocated to these projects, with contracts worth more than Dhs7.5bn already awarded.

The continued investment underscores Dubai’s commitment to maintaining its position among the world’s leading aviation centres while ensuring infrastructure capacity keeps pace with future demand.

Dubai is set to expand its efforts to promote healthier lifestyles and community wellbeing after Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum directed the launch of the second edition of Dubai Mallathon, a pioneering community sports initiative that transforms some of the emirate’s largest shopping centres into dedicated fitness destinations during the summer months.

The initiative, described as the world’s first community sports programme of its kind, will begin on June 15 and run until September 15, 2026.

Organisers say the programme is designed to encourage physical activity, improve public health and reinforce sport as a sustainable part of daily life for residents and visitors alike, a WAM report said.

The latest edition will be hosted across six major malls in Dubai: Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, Mirdif City Centre, Dubai Festival City Mall, Deira City Centre and Dubai Hills Mall. The participating venues will offer safe, air-conditioned environments where people can walk, run and take part in a range of fitness activities throughout the summer season.

Supporting Dubai’s quality of life vision

Dubai Mallathon forms part of the emirate’s wider strategy to enhance quality of life and strengthen community wellbeing. The initiative aligns with the Dubai Quality of Life Strategy 2033, which seeks to further position Dubai among the world’s leading cities for quality of life while encouraging healthier and more active lifestyles.

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The programme also supports the objectives of the UAE’s ‘Year of the Family’ 2026 by encouraging families to participate in sporting activities together and build stronger connections through shared community experiences.

Sheikh Hamdan, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, said the emirate would continue advancing a comprehensive quality-of-life model under the vision and directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

“Health and quality of life are the foundation of thriving societies and essential to empowering people, enhancing their wellbeing, and enabling them to contribute, innovate and succeed,” Sheikh Hamdan said.

He added that Dubai’s infrastructure and public facilities are designed to support every segment of society.

“Dubai is a city for everyone, and its facilities are designed to serve all members of society. We want every citizen, resident and visitor to feel supported and to have access to everything they need to lead a healthy, balanced and fulfilling life,” he said.

Community engagement at the core

The initiative reflects Dubai’s continued focus on building stronger community ties through sport and recreational activities.

According to Sheikh Hamdan, one of the emirate’s defining strengths is its sense of community and shared values.

“What distinguishes Dubai is its strong sense of community. Dubai is one family united by the values of coexistence, tolerance and compassion,” he said.

“Sport embodies these values as a universal language that brings people together and channels their energy towards positive goals and shared values. That is why we continue to launch community sports initiatives that strengthen these bonds and translate them into everyday experiences.”

Sheikh Hamdan also encouraged government entities, semi-government organisations, private sector companies and youth councils to support the initiative by promoting participation among employees and community members.

“Leading by example remains one of the most effective ways to inspire positive change and build a more active and vibrant society,” he said.

Daily activities planned throughout the summer

The second edition of Dubai Mallathon will take place daily between 6:00am and 10:00am from 15 June to 15 September 2026.

During those hours, participating malls will be transformed into community-focused fitness spaces, welcoming people of all ages, backgrounds and fitness levels in a climate-controlled environment designed to encourage regular exercise.

Participants will have access to dedicated walking and running tracks as well as a variety of sports activities and community programmes tailored to different age groups.

Organisers have also introduced specialised activities aimed at broadening participation. Dedicated programmes for women will be hosted at Dubai Mall and Mirdif City Centre, while additional initiatives will be available for senior citizens and People of Determination, ensuring the event remains inclusive and accessible.

The programme will feature a packed calendar of competitions, fitness sessions and interactive community events throughout the three-month period. Weekend races are scheduled across all participating malls, with prizes, medals and gifts set to be awarded to participants as part of efforts to encourage engagement and support long-term healthy habits.

To further enhance the experience, qualified fitness trainers will be stationed at all participating venues. Trainers will lead warm-up sessions, provide guidance and help participants exercise safely according to their individual fitness levels and age groups.

Free participation and incentives for regular attendance

Participation in Dubai Mallathon is free and does not require advance registration.

Residents and visitors can simply visit any participating mall and collect an official initiative wristband upon arrival.

The wristband will provide access to a range of exclusive offers from participating stores, restaurants and cafés. Organisers said rewards, discounts and incentives will increase based on attendance frequency and participation levels, creating additional motivation for people to remain active throughout the programme.

The second edition is being organised in collaboration with the Dubai Sports Council following the success of the inaugural event. The first Dubai Mallathon attracted thousands of participants and secured a Guinness World Record for the largest mall running event of its kind.

A single race at Dubai Hills Mall drew more than 1,300 participants, underscoring strong community interest in the initiative. Officials say that success has reinforced Dubai Mallathon’s position as one of the emirate’s flagship community sports programmes and a key contributor to the city’s broader health and wellbeing agenda.