DP World has entered into a 30-year concession agreement with Syria’s General Authority for Land and Sea Ports to develop and operate the Port of Tartus. The deal, structured as a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model and fully owned by DP World, aims to modernise the port’s infrastructure and reestablish Tartus as a vital trade hub connecting Southern Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa.

Under the agreement, DP World will invest $800m over the course of the concession to transform the port’s capabilities. Plans include the construction of new infrastructure, deployment of advanced cargo-handling equipment, and implementation of digital systems to improve operational efficiency at both the container and general cargo terminals.

The agreement was signed in Damascus in the presence of His Excellency Ahmed Al-Sharaa, President of the Syrian Arab Republic, by Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, chairman and group CEO of DP World, and Qutaiba Ahmed Badawi, chairman of the General Authority for Land and Sea Ports.

Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, chairman and group CEO of DP World, said: “This agreement reflects our long-term commitment to enabling global trade and creating resilient supply chains. We see strong potential in Tartus to serve as a vital trade gateway and look forward to strengthening regional connectivity and economic opportunity through this investment. We believe in the power of trade to help drive long-term stability and prosperity for Syria and the region.”

Qutaiba Ahmed Badawi, chairman of Syria’s General Authority for Land and Sea Ports, added: “This agreement marks an important step forward for the Port of Tartus and Syria’s maritime sector. Partnering with DP World will allow us to modernise and strengthen the efficiency of our trade infrastructure as we continue to rebuild key trade lanes, support the national economy and provide more opportunities for the Syrian people. The agreement reflects our shared vision to transform Tartus into a strategic gateway linking Syria with regional and international markets and it will pave the way for sustainable growth for years to come.”

Read: DP World to invest $2.5bn in 2025 to expand global logistics footprint

Trade routes

Strategically located on Syria’s Mediterranean coast, Tartus is the country’s second-largest port and plays a critical role in connecting trade routes to Europe, the Levant, and North Africa. The redevelopment is expected to significantly boost Syria’s trade potential, enabling the port to handle a wider variety of cargo including general cargo, containers, breakbulk, and roll-on/roll-off traffic.

DP World also plans to explore opportunities for developing free zones, inland logistics hubs, and transit corridors in partnership with local stakeholders. These initiatives aim to support Syria’s economic recovery and diversification efforts.

With operations in more than 75 countries and over 9.2 per cent of global container traffic handled through its network, DP World brings more than 40 years of experience in global logistics development. The Tartus project builds on the company’s growing portfolio and reinforces its presence in the Middle East.

Saudi Arabia’s Capital Market Authority (CMA) has approved a wide-ranging package of regulatory reforms aimed at strengthening the asset management industry and aligning it with international standards.

The approved amendments cover the Investment Funds Regulations, Real Estate Investment Funds Regulations, and the Glossary of Defined Terms.

The reforms are intended to improve transparency, investor protection, fund governance, and operational flexibility, particularly for investment fund managers and real estate investment trusts (REITs).

CMA’s key changes include

• Expanded distribution channels: Digital platforms and electronic money institutions licensed by the Saudi Central Bank can now distribute fund units, enabling broader access for investors.
• New REIT flexibility: Real estate funds traded on the parallel market (Nomu) can invest in development projects without initial asset or percentage restrictions.
• Risk reduction: Money market and capital protection funds must cap exposure to a single debt instrument at 10 per cent and total exposure to one entity at 25 per cent of net assets.
• Improved governance: Rules now require CMA approval and a 60-day transition period for changes in fund management, ensuring continuity and investor protection.
• Retail investor limits: Caps were introduced to limit retail investor subscriptions in private and foreign funds to 50 per cent of total contributions, preventing concentration risks.

These changes follow a record year in 2024 when the CMA approved 44 new investment funds, including equity, money market, Waqf (endowment), and ETF funds.

Assets under management reached nearly SAR700bn, growing 25.2 per cent year-on-year.

The CMA said the reforms were finalised after public consultations held in June and October 2024 and in February earlier this year.

The Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure in the UAE has announced the launch of a major project aimed at developing and enhancing the capacity of Emirates Road. This initiative forms part of a comprehensive national plan to tackle the persistent issue of traffic congestion and improve transportation efficiency across the country.

The project reflects the UAE’s ongoing commitment to building smart, resilient, and sustainable infrastructure that supports economic growth objectives, raises the quality of life for residents, and enhances the overall efficiency of the federal road network, a WAM report said.

Major road expansion and interchange upgrades

The Emirates Road development project involves a significant expansion of the existing road, increasing it from three to five lanes in each direction over a 25-kilometre stretch. The expansion will run from Al Badee Interchange in Sharjah to the border of Umm Al Quwain, effectively increasing the road’s capacity to handle approximately 9,000 vehicles per hour. This marks a 65 per cent increase in capacity, aiming to substantially ease traffic flow on this heavily used route.

Read-RTA’s overhaul: How it’s improving traffic on Dubai’s Emirates Road

In addition to lane expansion, the project includes a comprehensive upgrade of Interchange No. 7 on Emirates Road. This will involve the construction of six directional bridges covering a total length of 12.6 kilometres, capable of accommodating up to 13,200 vehicles per hour.

The development will also feature the construction of collector roads on both sides of Emirates Road, spanning 3.4 kilometres to better manage local traffic and enhance accessibility.

Timeline, cost, and expected impact

With an estimated budget of Dhs750m, the project is scheduled to begin in September 2025 and is expected to be completed within two years. The upgrades aim not only to regulate traffic flow but also to ensure the highest safety standards for all road users.

Once complete, commuters traveling from Ras Al Khaimah, through Umm Al Quwain and Sharjah to Dubai, and vice versa, can expect travel time reductions of up to 45 per cent. This improvement will benefit thousands of daily commuters and commercial transport operations, significantly enhancing the movement of goods and services across the UAE.

Addressing traffic congestion with innovative solutions

The Emirates Road project is considered one of the key solutions to the UAE’s traffic congestion challenges. By increasing road capacity and improving interchange efficiency, the initiative is poised to reduce traffic density and enhance the flow of vehicles along one of the most heavily trafficked federal roads.

The project will be executed in accordance with the highest international standards for infrastructure design and construction, ensuring optimal traffic efficiency, superior quality, and safety. It also aligns with the UAE’s broader strategy of implementing smart infrastructure solutions that contribute to sustainable urban development.

Government commitment to sustainable development

Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, emphasized the project’s significance during its announcement. He stated, “This project represents a significant step toward realising the UAE’s vision of establishing an integrated road network that meets the needs of our population and supports economic growth.”

Al Mazrouei highlighted that enhancing road efficiency and upgrading key interchanges will reduce daily travel times, improve community satisfaction, and promote sustainable development by ensuring smooth traffic flow that enhances quality of life. He added that the project reflects the country’s commitment to delivering innovative solutions for improving transportation, reducing congestion-related emissions, and raising overall living standards.

Aligning with national and global goals

“This project is part of a comprehensive vision aimed at enhancing the country’s transport and road infrastructure network according to the highest engineering and technical standards,” Al Mazrouei explained. “It positions the UAE among the world’s leading nations in providing sustainable infrastructure that meets future needs and supports the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.”

He also noted that the project will facilitate integrated logistics services, supporting the nation’s ambitions for economic diversification and growth.

Expert insights on implementation and benefits

Eng. Hassan Al Mansouri, Undersecretary for Infrastructure and Transport Affairs at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, provided further details on the project’s implementation. “The development will follow the highest international standards in road and infrastructure planning, with a strong emphasis on ensuring long-term sustainability,” he said.

Al Mansouri pointed out that the improvements will significantly enhance traffic flow, particularly for transit movement between cities across the UAE. He reiterated the importance of Emirates Road as a vital federal highway managed by the Ministry, serving as a key artery for both passenger and freight transportation.

Conclusion

The Emirates Road capacity enhancement project stands as a critical investment in the UAE’s future transportation infrastructure. With its focus on increasing capacity, improving safety, and reducing congestion, the project will play a pivotal role in supporting the country’s economic development and quality of life for its residents. As it moves forward, the initiative is expected to serve as a benchmark for sustainable road infrastructure projects across the region.

The 28th edition of Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) officially commenced on June 27, 2025, bringing an impressive array of deals, entertainment, and free activities across the emirate. Organised by the Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), this year’s event spans a solid 66 days, running until 31 August. It promises a summer filled with preeminent shopping discounts, headline concerts, cultural activations, family-focused attractions, and spectacular prizes.

Read-Dubai Summer Surprises 2025 to start soon: 11 unmissable experiences

“DSS 2025 is the most diverse edition to date, anchored around three specially curated shopping seasons,” states Suhaila Ghubash, vice president of Festivals and Events at DFRE (Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment). “We’ve introduced new concepts like the 10 Dirham Dish, DSS Gahwa Beats, and an expanded schedule of indoor mall runs—while bringing back signature experiences such as Beat The Heat, Summer Restaurant Week, Modesh World, DSS Entertainer, citywide concerts, and offers across hotels, attractions, and spas.”

Three-phase shopping strategy sustains momentum

For the first time, DSS adopts a three-season shopping model, dubbed Summer Holiday Offers, the Great Dubai Summer Sale, and Back to School—to maintain shopper engagement throughout the lengthier festival.

The first phase, Summer Holiday Offers, runs until 17 July, featuring up to 75 per cent off across hundreds of brands, exclusive giveaways, surprise pop-ups, enticing dining deals, and engaging entertainment. Shoppers and visitors enjoy continuous activations across shopping malls, hotels, and attractions.

“This segmented shopping model guarantees fresh, high-value offers throughout the festival,” explains Ghubash. “It ensures residents and tourists have multiple reasons to rediscover Dubai, whether for a staycation, a family outing, or a weekend splurge.”

Free events and cultural entertainment across the city

One of DSS’s hallmarks is its complimentary programming, well represented this year through extensive free entertainment and activations.

The festival’s grand opening weekend set the tone: Dubai Festival City Mall hosted performances by the Japanese dance collective Sabrina and Palestinian-Jordanian pop singer Reina Khoury on June 27. The following day, Abri & the Band, along with singer-songwriter Noel Kharman, took to the stage. City Centre Mirdif hosted Syrian vocalist Al Shami and Jordanian indie-rock band Jadal, while colorful street performers roamed nearby venues. The immersive cultural showcase offered families and visitors a vibrant and accessible way to engage with live arts.

Signature promotions return with bold enhancements

Many of DSS’s popular experiences return in amplified form. Foremost is the DSS Entertainer, offering over 7,500 Buy-One-Get-One-Free deals across iconic venues, spanning dining, brunches, delivery services, attractions, spas, fitness outlets, and lifestyle brands. Each purchase grants three-month unlimited access with daily redemptions.

Participating outlets include Wild Wadi, Motiongate Dubai, IMG Worlds of Adventure, Shake Shack, STK, Asia Asia, At.mosphere, Black Tap, Real Madrid World, Bounce, Le Pain Quotidien, Café Bateel, and many more.

Beyond BOGO offers, DSS 2025 introduces fresh concepts: the 10 Dirham Dish delivers budget gastronomic options; DSS Gahwa Beats explores coffee and music culture; and expanded indoor mall runs ensure air-conditioned excitement, essential for summer comfort—and extended entertainment stays.

Expanded of the festival footprint

Suhaila Ghubash highlights that this year’s edition is both broader and deeper in scale: “We’ve enlisted additional indoor venues, expanded mall programming, and overhauled signature activations to enrich diversity and reach.”

Core DSS staples, including Beat The Heat, Summer Restaurant Week, Modesh World, and a comprehensive live-concert circuit, have been upgraded. The festival now spans more venues and features a broader selection of artists, cuisines, and family programming.

66-day duration: A strategic move

Spanning 66 days, DSS 2025 holds the title of its longest-running edition so far. This extended timeframe is strategically aligned to maintain consumer, tourism, and economic momentum throughout Dubai’s summer.

Ghubash underscores its benefits: “Running DSS over 66 days allows the city to maintain steady retail and tourism momentum and to offer flexible opportunities for families and visitors to engage with the programme at their convenience. Every day brings something new—from retail offers and live entertainment to cultural activities and immersive experiences.”

The extended schedule lets participants stagger visits, plan around school holidays, or revisit favourite offerings without the rush of a condensed schedule.

Massive giveaways and grand prizes

The festival’s prize structure escalates this year, with high-value draws fueling excitement. Highlights include:

• 1 million SHARE points at all Majid Al Futtaim malls.
• 1 million AURA points across numerous citywide brands.
• Dhs10,000 in Tickit points awarded randomly.
• A brand-new Polestar 4 LRSM at Dubai Festival City Mall.
• A Soueast S06 SUV at Dubai Outlet Mall.
• Daily cash prizes via Slide Into Summer Surprises at Mercato and Town Centre Jumeirah.
• The Shop. Win. Drive. campaign at Dubai Festival Plaza awards six brand-new SUVs and spot prizes of Dhs5,000 each to twenty winners.
• Instant-win activations throughout malls and attractions.

“These initiatives are designed to strengthen visitor engagement and elevate the excitement of DSS 2025,” says Ghubash. “Combining prizes with value offers sustains interest and underpins consumer participation throughout the summer.”

A powerful loyalty infrastructure complements DSS’s attraction-based engagement. Tickit auto-enrolls every spend in lucky draws, while AURA and SHARE Millionaire programs reward point accumulation, culminating in million-point bonanzas. Residents and tourists can thus enjoy immediate gratification through vouchers and long-term rewards via loyalty programs—curating continued interest in DSS activities.

Family-centric camps bring cultural enrichment

In addition to retail and entertainment, DSS 2025 emphasizes creative, educational camps for children:

• Burst of Imagination, an arts programme at Al Jalila Cultural Centre.
• Heritage-led workshops and leadership development at Etihad Museum and Al Shindagha Museum.
• Archaeological and experiential learning sessions at Children’s City, hosted by Dubai Municipality.
• Regular holiday camps—institutional and boutique—throughout August.

These offerings enable families to combine educational enrichment with entertainment, all within the DSS framework.

Modesh and Dana delight younger fans

Central to DSS’s charm are mascots Modesh and Dana, who animate the festival’s family zone and beyond. Highlights this year include:

• Major attractions like Modesh World and the newly introduced Modesh Splash Park.
• Themed cafés, workshops, mall appearances, and surprise flash zones.
• Photo opportunities and curated seasonal itineraries.
• Family workshops and giveaways, creating interactive festival moments throughout the city.

Ghubash emphasises, “Modesh and Dana are at the heart of our family experience—spreading smiles and creating unforgettable summer moments for children of all ages.”

Culinary delights across the emirate

Food lovers are also catered to through DSS’s Summer Restaurant Week and curated culinary events:

• Participating over 100 hotels, 15 attractions, and 10 spas across Dubai.
• Featuring discounted multi-course menus or a-la-carte dishes city-wide.
• Includes attractions such as At.mosphere, Asia Asia, Black Tap, as well as casual favourites like Shake Shack.
• Budget options such as the 10 Dirham Dish further expand accessibility.

These curated menus and experiences encourage both residents and visitors to sample Dubai’s diverse hospitality offerings—at reduced cost and elevated presentation.

DSS supports Dubai’s economy year-round vision

Aligned with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, DSS maintains momentum in tourism, retail, and hospitality during summer’s off-peak season. By harnessing infrastructure, executing citywide activations, and integrating community-based programming, DSS demonstrates Dubai’s ability to sustain vibrant economic activity regardless of seasonal challenges.

“DSS is a showcase of Dubai’s world-class infrastructure and service offerings—reinforcing our position as a global hub of tourism, retail, and leisure,” adds Ghubash. “We want to redefine value-driven summer experiences in a modern international city.”

Outlook: Ongoing innovation ahead

Looking forward, DSS aims to build on its transformative 2025 edition. DFRE plans continue to:

• Introduce fresh retail campaigns and headline entertainment.
• Roll out specially curated tourism experiences.
• Expand signature concepts and value propositions.
• Leverage family-friendly initiatives with new cultural and educational collaborations.

Ghubash confirms, “Each year, we intend to deliver new reasons for residents and tourists to explore Dubai, with creative concepts that reflect the city’s innovation and world-class standards.”

Attracting global visitors with year-round value

For international visitors, DSS 2025 offers a compelling summer itinerary:

• Headline concerts, shopping discounts, theme park access, family camps, and free cultural entertainment.
• Strategic promotions across tourism sectors—retail, gastronomy, attractions, wellbeing, and more—offer a curated taste of Dubai at its most dynamic.
• Flexible event formats and loyalty-driven rewards provide added value without financial strain.

“DSS is the ultimate reason to visit Dubai in summer,” concludes Ghubash. “With headline events, premium deals, family events, and citywide activations, summer becomes synonymous with discovery, affordability, and celebration.”

Summary: Why DSS 2025 stands out

• Record 66‑day duration enables sustained engagement.
• Three-tiered shopping seasons maintain promotional freshness.
• BOGO deals, culinary bargains, and flair strategies elevate everyday experiences.
• Extensive prize draws and loyalty programs supercharge participation.
• Free cultural events, mascots, and educational camps enrich family journeys.
• Aligned with D33, DSS promotes consistent economic momentum.
• Strategic programming positions Dubai as a top-tier summer destination.

With architecture built on innovation, scale, and integrated value, Dubai Summer Surprises 2025 sets a new benchmark for global summer festivals.