Dubai has just unveiled District IO, a bold new development in Dubai Silicon Oasis aimed at becoming a global cutting-edge hub for AI, smart mobility, quantum computing, and transformative technologies. Launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the project is expected to boost the UAE’s GDP by Dh103 billion and generate over 70,000 jobs across the next 10 years.

Sheikh Mohammed shared on social media that the project is expected to contribute more than AED103 billion to the UAE’s GDP over the next 10 years, creating over 70,000 direct and indirect jobs and attracting up to Dh30 billion in foreign investment by 2036.

“We will not stop, and we will not look back because the one who looks back does not reach,” Sheikh Mohammed said, emphasising Dubai’s mission to remain an open platform for talent, creativity, and future technologies.

What to Expect from District IO

• Businesses & Talent: Space for 6,500 companies and 75,000 specialised talents
• Investments: AED11 billion in two phases (2026–2027)
• Buildings & Facilities: 25 LEED-compliant buildings (18 commercial, 4 residential), plus hospitality amenities
• Location: Near the Dubai Metro Blue Line in Dubai Silicon Oasis

District IO is part of the broader Dubai Silicon Oasis expansion, which includes the Block 14 residential and lifestyle district (Dh1.8 billion investment), aligned with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan and the city’s Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) model. Block 14 is expected to be completed in 2029.

Sheikh Mohammed’s Tour Highlights

On the sidelines of the launch, Sheikh Mohammed also visited key projects in Dubai Silicon Oasis:

• Fakeeh University Hospital: Reviewed advanced medical services and patient-centric systems
• Rochester Institute of Technology Dubai: Briefed on the Middle East’s first drone delivery network, integrating robotics and autonomous systems

With District IO and these associated projects, Dubai continues to cement its position as one of the world’s most future-ready cities, blending innovation, investment, and lifestyle like never before.

DP World has officially unveiled Dubai Food District, a bold transformation of the Al Aweer Central Fruit and Vegetable Market into one of the largest and most advanced food trade hubs in the world.

Rolling out in phases from 2027, the mega district will more than double the current market’s footprint to 29 million sq ft, bringing trade, storage, processing and distribution together under one roof. Think cold-chain logistics, smart warehousing, food processing, digital solutions, cash-and-carry zones and even a gourmet food hall.

Announced last year by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the project expands beyond fruits and vegetables to include dairy, staples, gourmet and specialty foods, positioning Dubai as a global gateway for food trade and food security.

Built on Al Aweer’s strong legacy, serving over 2,500 traders since 2004, the district aims to boost efficiency, cut supply chain risks and help food businesses reach markets faster and smarter. With multimodal connectivity to more than 20 global markets, DP World is betting big on Dubai’s role at the heart of the future food economy.

If you live in Khorfakkan and have been wondering what’s happening with housing in the area, here’s some reassuring news.

His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has announced that a new residential neighbourhood will be built in Jabal Al Ashkel, directly responding to concerns about the shortage of homes in the city.

The new development, called Al Ashkel Neighbourhood, will be located along the mountainous area of Khorfakkan. It’s set to take place near the Khorfakkan Club for the Disabled, and to ensure the area is ready for construction, the road leading to Al Rafisah will be paved.

The announcement was made during a phone call on the programme Direct Line, where the Sharjah Ruler addressed concerns by Emiratis about the availability of residential plots in Khorfakkan. And it wasn’t just talk about plans, there’s already a lot happening on the ground.

Right now, 270 homes are under construction, including 120 homes in Al Mudeife. More residential plots in the Al Harray area are also being handed over to the municipality, with construction expected to take around two years.

And it’s not just Khorfakkan that’s seeing progress. The Sharjah Ruler also shared updates on housing projects in Kalba, with new neighbourhoods being developed along the ring road in areas like Al Ghayl, Al Saaf, and Al Tareef. Construction has already started in Al Dahiyat neighbourhood, with more developments on the way.

All in all, it’s a clear sign that efforts are being made to ease housing pressure across Sharjah’s East Coast, and the message is clear: Sharjah is moving fast to address housing needs with long-term, citizen-focused developments that balance community living and natural surroundings.