Dubai Future Foundation (DFF) and Amazon UAE have launched a groundbreaking programme that allows individuals to deliver Amazon packages on foot, creating new opportunities within Dubai’s gig economy.

The initiative follows Amazon’s agreement to join Sandbox Dubai, part of DFF’s strategy to test innovative business models under the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33).

Flexible Earning Opportunities

The pilot project offers individuals and small business owners a chance to earn additional income through flexible, on-foot delivery services in densely populated areas of Dubai. It aims to make better use of idle working hours while helping businesses scale efficiently.

Beyond economic benefits, the program also supports sustainability by reducing reliance on delivery vehicles, easing congestion and cutting carbon emissions.

Public-Private Collaboration

Ronaldo Mouchawar, Vice President of Amazon Middle East, Africa, and Turkey, said the programme creates gig economy opportunities and boosts entrepreneurship.

Sandbox Dubai

Sandbox Dubai provides a controlled environment for innovators to test new services and business models with flexible regulatory oversight. The platform is central to Dubai’s plan to double its economy in the next decade and position itself among the world’s top three global cities.

Indian entrepreneurs continue to drive new business growth in Dubai, according to the latest figures from the Dubai Chamber of Commerce.

In the first half of 2025, a total of 9,038 Indian-owned companies joined the chamber, a 14.9% year-on-year increase, making India the top contributor among non-UAE businesses.

Pakistan ranked second with 4,281 new companies (up 8.1%), followed by Egypt in third with 2,540 companies (up 8.3%).

Bangladeshi businesses posted the highest growth rate at 37.5%, with 1,541 new companies joining, placing Bangladesh fourth. The UK ranked fifth with 1,385 new members, reflecting 11.1% growth.

Other countries in the top 10 included Syria (945), China (772), Jordan (688), Türkiye (642), and Canada (535).

Sector Trends

New members were most active in:

• Wholesale & Retail Trade – 35%
• Real Estate, Renting & Business Services – 35%
• Construction – 17.3%
• Transport, Storage & Communications – 7.6%
• Social & Personal Services – 7.6%

The results underline Dubai’s position as a global hub for investment and entrepreneurship, attracting businesses across Asia, Europe, and North America.

Dubai Municipality has issued warnings to several engineering consultancy offices after finding that they exaggerated structural designs for citizens’ villas.

According to officials, these inflated designs went against the Dubai Building Code and led to unnecessary construction costs for property owners, without any real engineering need.

The move is part of the Municipality’s efforts to regulate Dubai’s construction sector and protect residents from extra financial burdens. Consultancy offices across the emirate had already been reminded through circulars to strictly follow approved engineering standards.

Eng. Maryam Al Muhairi, CEO of the Buildings Regulation and Permits Agency, said:

“Compliance with the Dubai Building Code is not only a legal requirement but also a professional and ethical responsibility. The goal is to ensure safe, high-quality construction without forcing citizens to pay more than necessary.”

She added that Dubai Municipality will continue to monitor consultancy offices and contractors to prevent excessive use of building materials, including steel, and ensure construction remains efficient, safe, and cost-effective.

Repeat offenders could face disciplinary measures, including poor annual evaluations or even suspension. Earlier this year, two consultancy offices were banned from licensing new projects for six months due to violations.

By cracking down on such practices, Dubai Municipality says it aims to strengthen the emirate’s construction sector, cut waste, and support sustainable urban growth.