In a major humanitarian initiative announced ahead of Eid Al Adha, the UAE has approved the cancellation of accumulated interest and profit charges on loans owed by low-income retirees across the country.

The financial relief package, launched under the directives of UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and closely followed by Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, is being implemented by the Defaulted Debts Settlement Fund in partnership with several UAE banks. 

Valued at more than Dh834 million, the initiative is designed to ease financial pressures on 2,339 senior citizens while strengthening social stability and supporting family wellbeing across the country.

The initiative specifically targets Emirati retirees aged 50 and above who fall within limited-income categories.

Under the mechanism announced, participating banks will waive future interest and profit charges on outstanding loans while beneficiaries continue repaying only the original loan amount through flexible payment schedules.

Among the banks contributing to the initiative, Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank Group accounted for the largest share at Dh655 million, followed by First Abu Dhabi Bank with Dh150 million. Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank contributed Dh18.5 million, while Emirates NBD Group and Emirates Islamic Bank jointly provided Dh6.7 million.

Other participating institutions included Dubai Islamic Bank with Dh2.3 million, Commercial Bank of Dubai with Dh792,000, Sharjah Islamic Bank with Dh716,000 and the National Bank of Ras Al Khaimah with Dh566,000.

Officials confirmed that beneficiaries will be contacted directly by participating banks and financial institutions regarding the implementation process and revised repayment arrangements.

If you’ve driven down Jumeirah Street, Airport Road, or along the Dubai Canal recently, you’ve likely noticed a spectacular change in the landscape. Striking canopies of vibrant orange and scarlet flowers are blanketing the city, signalling the arrival of a beloved local season: the flame tree’s (Delonix regia) bloom.

With more than 50,000 of these iconic trees already lining the emirate’s roads and parks, Dubai is set to grow even greener. A new sustainability initiative will see 1,200 more flame trees planted across the emirate’s streets, public squares, and communities over the coming months.

The green push follows an inspiring vision shared by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai, who described the tree as a symbol of “a city full of life and beauty.” Following his directives to expand the vibrant canopy, Dubai Municipality recently completed the planting of 1,000 flame trees along Amman Street and in Mirdif.

Now, outsourcing visa giant VFS Global has pledged to plant the next batch of 1,200 trees. The initiative is part of a global sustainability drive by the company, which has seen over 650,000 trees planted worldwide over the last four years to combat greenhouse gas emissions.

But why is Dubai investing so heavily in this specific tree? It turns out the flame tree offers far more than just a stunning backdrop for photos.

Nature’s own air conditioning

While many flowering plants struggle as the Arabian summer heat rolls in, the flame tree thrives. Originally native to Madagascar, the species has adapted strongly to the UAE’s climate over several decades, handling hot, humid conditions with ease.

Sourced locally from the Wadi Dafta Plantation, an Emirati-owned agricultural enterprise, these trees can reach towering heights of up to 15 meters. Their expansive, umbrella-like shape creates dense, natural shade that reduces heat exposure and creates cooler microclimates within urban environments, significantly improving pedestrian comfort during the hot summer months.

A boost for urban biodiversity

Beyond providing a natural cooling effect for concrete spaces, the tree plays a vital role in the emirate’s long-term environmental resilience. During its blooming season, the dense scarlet flowers attract a wide variety of birds, butterflies, and local pollinators, giving a much-needed boost to local urban biodiversity.

Growing the green canopy at home

The campaign isn’t just for major highways and public parks. To help the entire community get involved in Dubai’s green future, seedlings are also being made available to residents who wish to plant these beautiful, fiery canopies at home or on their private farms.

Whether it is lining a 10-km stretch on the city’s busy roads or shading a neighbourhood park, the flame tree has firmly cemented itself as a defining feature of the UAE summer, bringing natural comfort and a burst of life exactly when the city needs it most.

Residents in Sharjah now have a new outdoor fitness destination after Sharjah City Municipality officially opened the Green Belt Park walkway, featuring a modern 1.8-km rubber track designed for walking, jogging and recreational activities.

The newly completed facility was opened to the public on Monday following the successful completion of construction and finishing works. The project aims to encourage healthier lifestyles by providing a safe, comfortable and visually appealing environment for exercise and relaxation.

Specifically designed running track

Built around the perimeter of Green Belt Park, the track is constructed from high-quality rubber materials that meet international safety and durability standards. Officials said the surface was specifically designed to provide flexibility and comfort for users while resisting wear, heavy usage and colour fading caused by changing weather conditions.

The municipality also introduced environmentally friendly lighting systems across the walkway to improve visibility and safety during evening hours. Landscaped greenery and planted areas surrounding the track have been added to create a calm and welcoming atmosphere for visitors.

Dedicated seating areas

As part of the park upgrades, dedicated seating areas will also be introduced for visitors and families, creating additional spaces for relaxation and community gatherings.

Municipality officials said the Green Belt Park walkway forms part of Sharjah’s broader development plans aimed at enhancing public facilities and supporting the emirate’s rapid urban, tourism and population growth.