Big changes are coming to Jebel Ali as the historic racecourse is set to be transformed into a walkable neighbourhood filled with parks, homes, shops and community spaces.

The five-square-kilometre area will be developed under a master plan created by Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) and backed by A.R.M Holding. The project, known as the A.R.M Holding Mega Project, will turn the former racetrack into a new “green district” that puts people, nature, and community at its heart.

What to expect

At the centre of the development will be a large central park that keeps the memory of the racetrack alive. Around it, a series of small, mixed-use neighbourhoods will be built – with homes, shops, offices, and parks all within walking distance. The idea is to let nature flow through the district, connecting the different areas like “urban islands in a sea of green.” The development is set to begin in 2026.

A city designed for well-being

The entire area will follow a “city-as-gym” concept where everything is walkable within five minutes, whether it’s your local park, a shop, your workplace or a community space. This setup aims to encourage an active lifestyle while improving public health and happiness.

The project also includes eco-friendly features like urban farms and passive cooling, supporting the goals of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. It will also include modern equestrian facilities to honour the area’s racing heritage.

Keeping it local

A key goal is to blend global design with local identity. A.R.M Holding says the community will reflect Emirati culture, values, and social needs, while also welcoming small local businesses to thrive within the neighbourhood.

“This masterplan will serve as a bridge for communication, understanding, and empathy – all of which are central to our vision of enabling prosperity,” said H.E. Mohammad Saeed Al Shehhi, CEO of A.R.M Holding.

The Jebel Ali redevelopment promises to offer a new kind of living experience in Dubai – one where green spaces, community, and culture come together.

Dubai Police have successfully dismantled three criminal gangs involved in phone scams that targeted residents by pretending to be official organisations. The operation, led by the Fraud Control Centre at the General Department of Criminal Investigation, led to the arrest of 13 individuals, all of Asian nationality.

The suspects posed as police officers and bank representatives, tricking victims into sharing sensitive financial details by claiming to update banking information, pay fines, or resolve residency issues. With this information, the gangs stole money from their victims.

The fraudsters used convincing methods to take advantage of people’s trust in government institutions. Authorities are warning the public to stay alert, reminding them that banks and police never ask for personal or banking details through phone calls, texts, or emails.

Residents are urged to report any suspicious messages or calls via the Dubai Police app or the official website at eCrime.ae.

From better healthcare and upgraded schools to smarter buildings and family-focused support, a range of new government policies is set to improve everyday life across Dubai.

Chairing a meeting of the Executive Council on Thursday, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and the UAE’s Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister, announced a series of people-first initiatives that aim to make Dubai healthier, smarter, and more family-friendly.

More Hospitals and healthcare centres

Dubai residents can expect three new hospitals and 33 primary care centres to open by 2033. These will be built in growing neighbourhoods like Al Yalayis, Al Awir, Hind City, Nad Al Sheba, Al Lisaili and Lehbab..

The project will be delivered through public-private partnerships, with incentives to attract both local and global healthcare investors. Residents can also look forward to:

• Improved mental health services
• Scholarships for Emirati medical professionals
• International partnerships for top-tier care

Better Schools for Students

A new education policy will ensure all Emirati children in private schools are placed in institutions rated ‘Good’ or above by Dubai’s school regulator. That means:

• Stronger academic standards
• Expanded programmes to improve curriculum quality
• More Emirati teachers in classrooms

One-Stop Support for Families

Dubai is also launching the Unified Centre for Family Care. This new hub will offer everything from family counselling to child protection and social services, with branches in Deira and Bur Dubai. The centre will also use digital tools to make it easier for families to access help when they need it most.

Smarter, Greener Buildings

The new Dubai Smart Buildings Policy aims to cut electricity and water usage while improving the quality of life for residents. Expect more eco-friendly, tech-enabled buildings designed to:

• Reduce operational costs
• Boost sustainability
• Improve overall resident well-being

.