The Indian rupee has fallen to a record low, offering UAE-based expats one of the most favourable exchange rates in recent months for sending money home.

The Indian rupee was trading at around Rs25.93 per dirham, according to XE, while weakening to 95.25 against the US dollar.

For Indian residents in the UAE, the shift means more rupees per dirham, making it an attractive time to remit funds for expenses such as school fees, family support, or loan payments back home.

A Dh1,000 transfer could fetch around Rs25,930 (before fees), prompting increased activity at exchange houses, where customers often wait for such rate movements to make larger transfers.

The Reserve Bank of India has taken steps to stabilise the currency, including dollar sales through state-run banks, though the impact has been limited as global pressures persist.

What it means for expats

For UAE-based expats, the current exchange rate makes this a strong window to send money, especially for large transfers like school fees, property payments, or savings.

If you’ve been waiting for a better rate, this could be a good time to act. However, currencies can remain volatile, and small gains can be offset by exchange house fees. Some residents prefer to split transfers (send part now, part later) to balance risk.

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Sharjah strengthens position as industrial hub with new initiatives

Sharjah is stepping up efforts to attract industrial investment, as the Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD) and Sharjah Foundation for Supporting Entrepreneurship take part in the latest edition of the Make it in the Emirates forum.

For entrepreneurs and expats looking to start or expand industrial ventures, one of the standout announcements is a special initiative offering instant industrial licences for just Dh1,000, covering all permitted industrial activities in the emirate.

Officials say the move is part of a broader strategy to simplify business setup, reduce costs, and accelerate project launches, making it easier for investors to enter the market.

Speaking at the forum, Hamad Ali Abdulla Al Mahmoud said the initiative reflects Sharjah’s commitment to building a diversified, knowledge-based economy, while supporting innovation and long-term growth in the industrial sector.

Beyond licensing, SEDD is also using the platform to connect with global manufacturers and industry leaders, aiming to build partnerships that support technology transfer and enhance the quality and global reach of Made in Sharjah products.

For business owners and aspiring founders, the initiative offers lower entry barriers, faster setup processes, and access to funding and support services.

How to apply for an industrial licence

Setting up an industrial business in Sharjah is becoming faster and more accessible. Here’s a simple breakdown of how to apply through the Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD):

1. Choose your activity
Select the industrial activity you want to operate. This licence covers a wide range of permitted manufacturing activities in Sharjah.

2. Submit your application
Apply through SEDD’s official website, service centres, or via initiatives promoted at the Make it in the Emirates forum.

3. Provide required documents
Typically includes:

• Passport/Emirates ID copy
• Business details
• Initial approvals (if required for specific activities)

4. Get instant approval
The initiative offers fast-track processing, allowing many applications to be approved quickly.

5. Pay the fee
Pay the Dh1,000 licence fee, which covers all permitted industrial activities under this offer.

6. Start operations
Once approved, you can begin setting up your industrial project and access additional support services.

Entrepreneurs can also tap into funding, advisory, and training support through Sharjah Foundation for Supporting Entrepreneurship to help grow their business.

Workplace safety is getting a stronger push in Sharjah, as Sharjah Police has introduced a specialised team to help companies improve compliance with occupational health and safety standards.

The initiative, led by the General Directorate of Prevention and Safety, focuses on identifying unregistered companies, registering them within the system, and providing hands-on training and technical support under the Sharjah Occupational Safety and Health System.

For businesses and workers across the emirate, many of them part of the UAE’s diverse expat community, the move aims to create safer, more sustainable work environments while reducing workplace incidents.

Rather than waiting for issues to arise, the new team reflects a shift towards a more proactive prevention model, according to Brigadier Dr Ahmed Saeed Al Naour. The approach focuses on helping companies understand risks, meet safety requirements, and strengthen their readiness using modern safety practices.

Through field visits, training programmes, and ongoing consultations, authorities hope to raise awareness of best practices and ensure they are effectively implemented on the ground.

Officials say the initiative also supports business continuity, helping companies operate more efficiently while protecting employees, an increasingly important factor for organisations looking to attract and retain talent in the UAE.

Colonel Jassim bin Talai’a added that building a culture of safety is a shared responsibility, encouraging companies to actively engage with the programme and take advantage of the support offered.

For workers, this means safer day-to-day working conditions, fewer risks on-site, and greater awareness of their rights and safety procedures, as more companies are guided to meet proper standards and prioritise employee wellbeing.