Dubai is adding a new, heartwarming touch to its urban landscape, and it’s all about compassion.

Dubai Municipality has announced the launch of the “Fountains of Mercy” project, an initiative that will see 50 dedicated water fountains installed across the emirate to provide drinking water for birds and wild animals.

The project reflects Dubai’s growing focus on environmental sustainability, biodiversity protection and humane urban design, while echoing the values of mercy and generosity championed by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE,  and Ruler of Dubai.

Relief during intense heat

Under the plan, 25 fountains will be placed in urban areas for birds, while another 25 will be installed in desert and rural locations to support wild animals. Built from durable, high-quality materials, the fountains are designed for long-term use, easy maintenance and year-round operation, including during the UAE’s intense summer heat.

In a sustainability-first move, the fountains will be powered by solar energy and operate using water-efficient systems that meet international environmental standards.

Dubai Municipality said the initiative is backed by a charitable endowment from a Dubai-based benefactor, highlighting how community-driven generosity continues to play a role in shaping the city’s development.

Heading to Dubai International Airport (DXB) just got a whole lot smoother.

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), working with Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects (DAEP), has officially opened an expanded bridge leading to Terminal 1 at DXB, and it’s a big relief for travellers.

The upgrade increases traffic lanes from three to four, boosting capacity by 33 per cent. That means the bridge can now handle up to 5,600 vehicles per hour, easing congestion, cutting journey times and making airport drop-offs far less stressful.

The project is part of a wider push to keep Dubai’s road network in step with the city’s rapid growth, especially around Dubai International Airport, the world’s busiest airport for international passengers.

What’s impressive is how it was built. Engineers used an innovative steel-and-concrete design that allowed construction to move fast without closing lanes or disrupting traffic on Airport Street. 

Beyond the extra lane, the project also included road resurfacing, upgraded utilities, new street lighting and landscaping to seamlessly connect the bridge with surrounding roads, improving safety and visibility for drivers.

For anyone heading to catch a flight, your ride to DXB just got quicker.

Dubai motorists are being urged to stay alert after Parkin warned customers about fraudsters posing as the company.

In a message shared on social media, Parkin said official communications are only sent from the short code 7275, and any messages or links claiming to be from the company outside of this should be treated with caution.

The parking operator advised customers not to engage with suspicious messages or click on unverified links, stressing that confirmation should always be done through the official Parkin app or parkin.ae.

Parkin manages around 207,000 paid parking spaces across Dubai, offering a fully digitised parking experience with multiple digital payment options and smart parking systems. The company recently upgraded its app to integrate multiple permit services into one platform, making it easier for users to manage parking access.

Looking ahead, Parkin is set to introduce paid parking in International City next month, further expanding its services across the emirate.

The company also reminded motorists that certain groups remain exempt from parking fees, including Emirati residents, senior Emiratis, and People of Determination.