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New look, new name: Sharjah’s Safeer Mall to reopen as M&S Mall

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Sharjah’s iconic Safeer Mall is getting a fresh new identity — and a massive facelift. Now operating under the provisional name Mark & Save Mall (M&S Mall), the long-standing retail hub is set for a full-scale redevelopment following its recent acquisition by the Western International Group.

The transformation comes nearly two decades after the mall first opened its doors in 2005. The ownership shift took place in January, and redevelopment work is expected to wrap up in around 18 months.

The mall will undergo major upgrades, both inside and out, as part of an ambitious project to bring it in line with modern standards and ensure compliance with government regulations.

While it won’t be a complete teardown, the scale of the renovation is significant enough to require the temporary closure of the premises. Large portions of the interior and core infrastructure will be rebuilt to align with current requirements.

At present, nine shops are still open and serving customers, with business owners seeking clarity about the road ahead. The group said it recognises the ongoing operations and is committed to supporting tenants throughout the transition. However, given the scope of work, temporary relocations will be necessary.

Regarding eviction notices issued to shop tenants, the group confirmed that all required permits and renovation approvals are in place and that it has been working closely with relevant authorities from the start.

Backed by an investment of over Dh1 billion, the revamped mall promises to be one of Sharjah’s top family-friendly destinations. Plans include the city’s largest indoor play area, new dining spots, a fully equipped gym, and a sprawling hypermarket.

Strategically located on Etihad Road (E11), the major artery between Dubai and Sharjah, the mall sits in a high-traffic zone with over 100,000 vehicles passing daily.

Once a familiar landmark for residents and long-time expats, the shopping centre is now gearing up for its next chapter, promising a bigger, bolder, and better retail experience.

With over 35 years of experience in journalism, copywriting, and PR, Michael Gomes is a seasoned media professional deeply rooted in the UAE’s print and digital landscape.

Announcements

Ajman to launch new Rental Dispute Resolution Centre under 2026 law

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Ajman has announced the establishment of a new Rental Dispute Resolution Centre, aimed at streamlining landlord-tenant disputes and strengthening stability in the emirate’s real estate sector.

His Highness Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ajman, has issued Law No. (1) of 2026, formally creating the centre and replacing the existing rental disputes committee.

Clearer, Faster Rental Dispute Resolution

The new law introduces transparent and clearly defined mechanisms for reviewing and adjudicating rental disputes, with the objective of:

  • Protecting the rights of landlords and tenants
  • Enhancing confidence in Ajman’s property market
  • Supporting a stable and attractive investment environment

Jurisdiction and Scope

The specialised centre will have authority over all rental-related disputes between landlords and tenants, including:

  • Residential and commercial properties
  • Properties located within free zones

Cases will be handled using procedures aligned with recognised legal and judicial standards, ensuring fairness and consistency.

Boosting Market Stability

Officials said the new centre is designed to:

  • Speed up dispute resolution
  • Reduce litigation timelines
  • Ensure swift and effective justice

The move is expected to contribute to social and economic stability in Ajman’s leasing and real estate sector, while reinforcing investor confidence.






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Your face or palm could soon pay for purchases in the UAE

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Paying for everyday services in the UAE could soon be as simple as showing your face or palm.

The Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) has introduced the region’s first biometric payment solution, allowing users to make payments using facial recognition or palm biometrics, without cards, cash, or mobile phones.

The new system is currently being tested in a pilot phase at the Dubai Land Department, where customers authenticate payments through biometric scans in a controlled environment.

How Biometric Payments Work

The pilot enables:

  • Payments using face or palm recognition
  • No need for physical cards or smartphones
  • Faster, more secure transactions

The initiative is part of the CBUAE Sandbox Programme and Innovation Hub at the Emirates Institute of Finance, developed in collaboration with Network International and powered by PopID.

Focus on Security and User Experience

The Central Bank said the pilot is designed to assess security, efficiency, and operational readiness before any wider rollout. No timeline has yet been announced for expanding the system beyond the testing phase.

CBUAE officials say biometric payments could significantly enhance transaction security while improving customer convenience. Industry leaders also expect biometric technology to play a growing role in digital commerce and cashless payments globally.

A Step Towards Cashless Payments

The pilot reflects the UAE’s broader push towards financial innovation, smart services, and cashless payment systems, positioning the country at the forefront of next-generation payment technology in the region.









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Dubai launches global challenge to build the world’s first fully robotic villa

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Dubai Municipality has launched a global challenge to construct the world’s first residential villa built entirely using robotic construction systems, reinforcing Dubai’s position as a global testbed for advanced building technologies.

The project will be delivered by a consortium of more than 25 local and international technology companies and academic institutions, led by Dubai Municipality. Officials say the initiative aims to develop scalable, next-generation construction models that boost productivity, sustainability, and quality.

The announcement was made during the launch of 04 ConTech Valley, Dubai’s new Construction Innovation and Research Centre, developed in partnership with Expo City Dubai.

Global ConTech Momentum

At the event, Dubai Municipality also unveiled the Global ConTech Report, which projects that global construction technology investment will exceed $30 billion by 2033, growing at 17.5% annually.

Key findings highlight:

  • Labour shortages are a major global challenge
  • Rising investment in robotics and additive manufacturing
  • Rapid adoption of AI, robotics, prefabrication, and infrastructure technologies

Building a Stronger Innovation Ecosystem

Dubai Municipality also launched the ConTech Working Group, in collaboration with Dubai Chambers, bringing together government, developers, contractors, investors, researchers, and tech firms to accelerate innovation across the sector.

70–70 Strategy for 2030

Dubai also launched the 70–70 Strategy, aiming to shift 70% of construction to off-site manufacturing and achieve 70% factory automation by 2030, driving higher efficiency and sustainability.

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