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.

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.

Jobseekers across the UAE will have the chance to connect with top employers and explore real career opportunities when the Ras Al Khaimah Jobs and Internships Festival (RAKJIF) returns on October 9. The one-day event at the RAK Exhibition Centre will feature on-the-spot interviews, internships, CV clinics, and personalised career guidance, making it one of the country’s fastest-growing career platforms for young talent and professionals alike.

Ras Al Khaimah is set to host its third edition of the Jobs & Internships Festival (RAKJIF) on Thursday, October 9, at the RAK Exhibition Centre, bringing together leading UAE employers and ambitious jobseekers.

Organised by the Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi Foundation for Policy Research, in partnership with the Investment and Development Office Ras Al Khaimah (IDO) and the Department of Human Resources, the festival has quickly grown into one of the UAE’s most trusted platforms for career development.

This year’s edition will feature employers across key industries, including banking, oil and gas, consulting, engineering, hospitality, and real estate, with opportunities for on-the-spot interviews, CV clinics, and personalised career guidance. More than 1,000 Emirati job seekers are expected to attend.

New for 2025 is the AI & Future of Work Forum, where international experts, business leaders, and policymakers will share insights on how artificial intelligence is reshaping recruitment, workplace culture, and the skills needed for the jobs of tomorrow.

The one-day event, running from 9am to 5pm, aims to serve as a hub for professional growth, networking, and talent development.

For more information or to register, employers and job seekers can visit www.alqasimifoundation.com/rakjif