The Sharjah Real Estate Registration Department has launched an upgraded version of its official website, marking a major step in its ongoing digital transformation journey. The revamp aims to enhance the delivery of real estate services and offer an integrated digital platform that caters to a wide range of customers across the emirate.

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The new website boasts a modern, interactive design aligned with Sharjah Government’s directives to advance smart services and improve market attractiveness. The platform is tailored to serve investors, developers, homeowners’ associations, individuals, banks, and government entities, ensuring fast and user-friendly access to services, a WAM report said.

Abdulaziz Ahmed Al Shamsi, Director-General of the department, said the upgraded site reflects the department’s commitment to digital excellence. “This launch represents a significant milestone in our efforts to deliver flexible, smart services to a wide spectrum of clients. It further strengthens Sharjah’s position as a leading real estate hub in the region,” he said.

Tailored services for every user group

The upgraded website categorizes services based on the user type, allowing for an efficient and intuitive experience. Real estate developers can access features such as project registration, certification of initial sales contracts, project tracking, and applications to form homeowners’ associations.

For homeowners’ associations, the site provides services like administrative supervision company registration, board registration certificate issuance, approval of service and maintenance fee declarations, and submission of complaints.

Integrated tools for institutions and individuals

Government agencies can now request property ownership reports, while individual users can benefit from services such as ownership certificate issuance, title deed replacement, property valuation, and ownership data updates.

Banks are also catered to with streamlined digital services including mortgage registration, release, increase, and amendment—enabling seamless integration across all sectors involved in the real estate landscape.

The website launch reinforces Sharjah’s commitment to smart governance and a sustainable investment environment in the real estate sector.

du, UAE’s telecom and digital services provider, and Omantel, the Sultanate of Oman’s integrated telecommunications company, have announced the activation of the Oman Emirates Gateway (OEG) — a 275-kilometre international fibre optic submarine cable system designed to enhance digital connectivity between the UAE and Oman.

The OEG connects three major regional data centres: datamena DX1 in Dubai, Equinix MC1 in Barka, and Equinix SN1 in Salalah. The high-capacity system aims to provide a seamless express route that improves network efficiency, speeds up connectivity, and offers a significant uplift in digital service experiences across the region.

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Karim Benkirane, chief commercial officer of du, said: “The Oman Emirates Gateway is far more than just an optical cable; it is a bridge towards future-proofing the digital infrastructure of the region. This project will be a cornerstone for hyperscalers, content providers, and international carriers, empowering them to enhance their presence in the UAE and Oman, and optimize their operational capability to meet the growing demands of the digital era.”

Samy Al Ghassany, chief technology and digital officer at Omantel, added: “The full activation of the Oman Emirates Gateway marks a pivotal milestone in our journey towards digital transformation in Oman and beyond. We are proud to contribute to the region’s content enrichment and to establish a robust, high-capacity corridor that will empower businesses across Oman and the UAE. This achievement goes beyond mere connectivity; it propels the entire region towards innovation, growth, and global competitiveness.”

Fibre optic submarine cable system

The OEG system is built for high resilience, offering dual route options via both terrestrial and subsea paths. It is designed to deliver exceptional reliability and performance, supporting emerging technologies and future scalability. The infrastructure will also enable faster cloud access and direct connections to global data centres, supporting international business operations and digital transformation.

This milestone reinforces the strategic partnership between du and Omantel and strengthens their positions as key wholesale players in the region. It also reflects a joint commitment to accelerating digital innovation, attracting global technology companies, and contributing to economic growth and technological advancement in both the UAE and Oman.

The Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) officially launched the 2025 Esports World Cup (EWC) in Riyadh, marking the start of the world’s largest competitive gaming festival.

Running from July 10 until August 24, the event features 25 tournaments across 24 leading game titles and brings together more than 2,000 elite players from around the globe, competing for a record-breaking prize pool of over $70m

Described by organisers as the biggest esports event ever staged, EWC 2025 introduces a pioneering cross-title ‘Club Championship’ format.

Esports World Cup 2025: Format and prize money

The competition sees the world’s top 200 esports organisations accumulate points across multiple games to contend for the title of EWC Club Champion and a $7 million grand prize.

The wider prize fund also includes $38m for individual game titles, $5m in global qualifier awards, and $450,000 in MVP bonuses.

Speaking at the opening press conference, Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Sultan, chairman of the Saudi Esports Federation, said the event represents a “pivotal moment” for the global esports industry.

“Hosting the EWC reflects our commitment to building a sustainable, world-class esports ecosystem,” he said. “Esports is no longer niche — it’s a global sport and a cultural force. And the Esports World Cup is its most unifying stage. We’re honoured to lead this transformation from Saudi Arabia.”

The EWC is a flagship initiative under Saudi Arabia’s broader Vision 2030 and the National Gaming and Esports Strategy, which aims to position the Kingdom as a global hub for gaming and esports.

Ralf Reichert, CEO of the Esports World Cup Foundation, said this year’s tournament will offer unprecedented access and visibility.

“Through global broadcasts, original shows, and documentary storytelling, we’re opening doors and sharing esports in new and exciting ways,” he said. “With record-breaking competition, this summer is special — not just for gamers, but for everyone who joins us.”

Global reach and cultural integration

The 2025 edition will produce over 7,000 hours of live content, second only to the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympics and will be broadcast in 35 languages across 140 countries.

Media partners include FOX Sports, DAZN, Eurosport, and South Korea’s NAVER, with streaming also available on Twitch, YouTube, and TikTok.

EWC Spotlight, a new weekly broadcast produced with IMG, will provide fans with live esports coverage mixed with celebrity interviews and behind-the-scenes access.

The show will be hosted from a custom-built studio in Riyadh by Hugh Woozencroft and Rachel Stringer, and will feature more than 60 celebrity guests throughout the season.

The EWC’s opening ceremony includes performances by Post Malone, Alesso, Tina Guo, and a collaborative debut of the official 2025 Esports World Cup anthem Til My Fingers Bleed by DINO of SEVENTEEN, Duckwrth, and Telle Smith.

Global icons and game titles

Magnus Carlsen and Cristiano Ronaldo have joined the tournament as Global Ambassadors, with Carlsen also set to compete in the inaugural EWC Chess Tournament from July 29 to 31. Their participation underscores the EWC’s ambition to unite traditional sport and esports through shared values of excellence and global community.

The seven-week championship includes tournaments in top titles such as League of Legends, Dota 2, Valorant, EA FC 25, Counter-Strike 2, Apex Legends, PUBG MOBILE, Street Fighter 6, Tekken 8, and Starcraft 2.

EWC Festival and sponsorships

Beyond the competitions, the EWC Festival will transform Riyadh’s Boulevard City into a citywide celebration of gaming, with fan activations, concerts, and community tournaments.

Major global brands such as Amazon, Aramco, PepsiCo, Lenovo, Sony, Spotify, stc, and Hilton are backing the event as sponsors.

Faisal bin Homran, chief product officer at EWCF, described the EWC as a “new benchmark for what it means to be a champion in the digital age.”

“At its core is a pioneering format that rewards all-around excellence and unlocks long-term value for players, organisations, and communities,” he said.

For more information, including a full tournament schedule, visit esportsworldcup.com.

The European Union has officially removed the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from its list of high-risk third countries for money laundering and terrorist financing—a move hailed by the UAE’s top financial regulator as a major national achievement.

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Khaled Mohamed Balama, Governor of the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) and Chairman of the National Committee for Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism and Illegal Organisations, called the decision a reflection of the country’s “wise leadership” and long-term vision, a WAM report said.

Diplomatic efforts lead to key breakthrough

Balama credited the diplomatic work of Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Chairman of the Higher Committee overseeing the National Anti-Money Laundering Strategy, for helping secure the EU’s decision.

“This marks a significant step in establishing an advanced financial ecosystem based on effective governance and a forward-looking national strategy,” he said.

Commitment to financial integrity

He emphasised that the move reflects the UAE’s commitment to strengthening its financial systems, enhancing transparency, and aligning with international standards to boost global competitiveness.

“We appreciate the continued cooperation of regulatory authorities, licensed financial institutions, and the private sector in making this progress possible,” Balama added.

The UAE has undertaken comprehensive reforms in recent years to fortify its anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing frameworks—efforts that have now been recognised by the European Union with the country’s removal from its high-risk list.

Samsung took centre stage at its recent Unpacked event in New York, unveiling the Galaxy Z Fold 7, Galaxy Z Flip 7 (and Flip 7 FE), and the Galaxy Watch 8 series. The new lineup reflects Samsung’s dominance in foldables and wearables.

Samsung’s 2025 lineup elevates mobile experiences through AI-native design and hardware. The Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7 lean into thinner form factors and flagship-grade imaging, while the Watch 8 series sets a new standard for holistic health monitoring.

With Google Gemini AI embedded across the ecosystem, Samsung marked its focus in creating smarter, personalised, and always-on tech.

Galaxy Z Fold 7 highlights

Thinnest Fold yet: Measures just 8.9 mm when folded, 4.2 mm open, and weighs approximately 215 g, lighter than the Galaxy S25 Ultra.

Expansive display: Features an 8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X inner and a 6.5- inch, 21:9 outer display with peak brightness of 2,600 nits, ideal for multitasking and media.

Flagship camera: Features a 200MP ProVisual main camera, a first for Samsung foldables, backed by AI-powered editing tools.

Durability upgrade: Introduces the Armor Flex hinge, Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2, and IP48 resistance.

Performance powerhouse: Powered by Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy with full Galaxy AI suite, including live translation and Circle to Search.

Battery capacity: Packs a 4,400 mAh battery supporting all-day battery life.

Availability: Pre-orders began July 9; launches globally July 25, starting at $1,999.

Galaxy Z Flip 7 and Flip 7 FE highlights

Larger cover display: Has a 4.1-inch FlexWindow is the biggest ever on a Flip, now brighter at 2,600 nits.

Immersive inner screen: Features a 6.9-inch AMOLED 2X panel makes the Flip 7 more cinematic than ever.

AI at the forefront: New Galaxy AI features include photo coaching, outfit suggestions, and real-time translations via Gemini.

Camera and battery: Features a 50MP main camera and 4,300mAh battery provide all-day power and performance.

Performance options: Flip 7 runs on the Exynos 2500 chip; Flip 7 FE is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite and offers up to 512GB storage.

Both available starting July 25.

Pricing

• Flip 7 from $1,099.99

• Flip 7 FE from $899.99

Galaxy Watch 8 Series highlights

The new “cushion” squircle design makes the Watch 8 and Watch 8 Classic sleeker and lighter. The rotating bezel makes a comeback in the Classic.

Redesigned form factor: Have a cushion-shaped design, thinner profile; Classic model brings back the rotating bezel.

Brilliant display: Features up to 3,000 nits peak brightness, Super AMOLED protected by sapphire glass.

Advanced health AI: Offers sleep coaching, vascular load monitoring, Running Coach, antioxidant index, AGEs tracking, and guided meditation.

Google Gemini powered: Provides hands-free voice assistance, contextual summaries, and AI-managed features.

Hardware upgrades: Exynos W1000 processor, 2 GB RAM; Classic version offers up to 64 GB storage.

Durability and connectivity: Are certified 5 ATM, IP68, MIL‑STD‑810H; supports LTE, Bluetooth 5.3, dual-band GPS, NFC.

All models available from July 25.

Pricing

• Watch 8: Starts at $349 (40mm) / $379 (44mm)

• Watch 8 Classic: $499

• Watch 8 Ultra: $649

Note: Prices may differ depending on region.