President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, has issued a federal decree promoting Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence, to the military rank of Lieutenant General.

The promotion comes just over a year after Sheikh Hamdan was appointed to two senior Cabinet roles, Minister of Defence and Deputy Prime Minister, on July 14, 2024. He was officially sworn in before the President on Union Pledge Day.

Since then, Sheikh Hamdan has played a crucial role in shaping the UAE’s defence strategy, strengthening international military cooperation, and advancing the nation’s long-term security and development agenda.

A graduate of the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst and the London School of Economics, Sheikh Hamdan has brought a globally informed approach to local leadership. His public service career began with his appointment as Chairman of the Dubai Executive Council in 2006, and he was named Crown Prince of Dubai in 2008 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

In his various leadership roles, Sheikh Hamdan has overseen transformative developments in Dubai across sectors including infrastructure, technology, tourism, and social policy. His tenure is marked by strong economic growth, innovation-driven governance, and a focus on inclusive progress.

Beyond his official capacity, Sheikh Hamdan is known for his deep cultural engagement. Under his pen name ‘Fazza’, he is a celebrated poet, equestrian, and falconer, widely admired for his contributions to the UAE’s heritage and conservation efforts.

Born on November 14, 1982, Sheikh Hamdan received his early education at Rashid Private School in Dubai before pursuing advanced studies in the UK and UAE. His blend of modern leadership and traditional values continues to resonate across the nation.

There’s nothing like a cool treat to beat the Dubai heat, and this summer, visitors flying into Dubai International Airport (DXB) are in for a delightful surprise, thanks to a collaboration between Brand Dubai and Dubai Airports.

As part of the #DubaiDestinations campaign, colourful ice cream trucks have rolled into DXB’s arrivals area, dishing out frosty delights to jet-lagged passengers, all for free.

Who’s behind the scoop?
It’s none other than KUHP, a quirky, homegrown brand under the ‘Proudly from Dubai’ umbrella. Think premium swirls, chilled drinks, and major “Instagram it before you eat it” vibes.

“We want every arrival to feel the Dubai difference from the moment they land,” say organisers.

From the sweet aroma wafting through the terminal to the flash of the bright trucks, this isn’t your average airport snack stop; it’s a whole summer mood. The idea? Make every traveller’s first taste of Dubai as memorable as the city.

Cool campaign, cooler cause
Beyond just beating the heat, the move also spotlights Dubai’s creative spirit and shines a light on local businesses. It’s a clever way to turn the arrivals hall into an experience, and a pretty sweet start to any UAE adventure.

So next time you land in DXB, keep your eyes peeled near Terminal 3 arrivals. A free ice cream might be the first thing you taste in Dubai,  and not the last.

Abu Dhabi, buckle up, your ride of the future has arrived in the heart of the city. Authorities have announced the expansion of autonomous taxi services to high-density hotspots, including Al Reem and Al Maryah Islands, putting self-driving cars at the heart of urban hustle.

The move is part of Abu Dhabi’s ambitious smart mobility plan and is being implemented in collaboration with WeRide, a global leader in autonomous driving, with Uber and Tawasul Transport serving as local operators.

Why Al Reem & Al Maryah?
These bustling islands are financial, residential, and commercial powerhouses, perfect for testing WeRide’s cutting-edge driverless tech against real-world city traffic.

“This expansion allows us to reach more passengers, showcase our advanced technology in complex urban settings, and further accelerate the deployment of autonomous vehicles across the city,” said Jennifer Li, CFO and Head of International at WeRide.

Already cruising Yas, Saadiyat and Zayed International Airport
The expansion builds on existing services on Yas Island, Saadiyat Island, and routes to Zayed International Airport, bringing Abu Dhabi one step closer to its vision of 25 per cent of all trips via smart transport by 2040.

With 44 autonomous vehicles already operating, the largest active fleet in the region, the city is now steering toward full-scale adoption. More areas on Abu Dhabi Island are next in line.