In a major step toward digital transformation, the Abu Dhabi Department of Municipalities and Transport has announced it will stop accepting cash payments across all its customer service centres starting April 1, 2026.

Residents will now be required to pay all service fees through approved digital platforms such as TAMM, DARI, and Smarthub, or via credit cards at service centres.

The move marks a significant shift towards a fully cashless system across all entities under DMT, aimed at improving efficiency, reducing processing times, and enhancing the overall customer experience.

While cash payments will no longer be accepted, authorities noted that in exceptional cases, payments may still be made via direct bank deposits or secure digital payment links sent to customers’ phones.

The transition is part of Abu Dhabi’s broader push to adopt smart, seamless government services and accelerate its digital economy.

Big changes are coming to Dubai, and they could directly affect your wallet, job opportunities, and even living conditions.

At a key meeting led by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, the Executive Council of Dubai approved a range of major initiatives aimed at supporting residents, businesses, and workers across the emirate.

Boost for businesses and residents

Dubai is rolling out a Dh1 billion support package starting April 2026. The goal? To ease financial pressure.

What does that mean in real life:

• Businesses can delay paying some government fees
• Hotels get more time to pay tourism-related charges
• Companies get longer deadlines for customs payments
• Residency processes will be made simpler

Dubai’s economy is still growing strong

Dubai’s economy grew by 5.4% in 2025, showing steady progress. Officials have also updated how this growth is measured to give a clearer, more accurate picture of the economy.

Easier trade, especially for high-value goods

A new initiative by Dubai Customs will make it much easier to bring goods—especially expensive items like artwork—into Dubai.

• No customs duties on certain art imports
• Fewer restrictions and faster processes
• High-tech tracking systems

This move is aimed at attracting global investors and collectors.

More support for local families

The new Dubai Empowerment Strategy, led by Community Development Authority, focuses on:

• Creating job opportunities
• Supporting small businesses and home ventures
• Improving financial stability for families

Better living conditions for workers

A new plan will improve worker housing across Dubai:

• 100% access to essential services by 2033
• Strict health and safety standards for accommodations

Whether you’re an employee, business owner, or investor, these changes are designed to make life easier, boost opportunities, and keep Dubai’s growth on track.

The Ministry of Education has announced an extension of remote learning for all students, teachers, and administrative staff across the United Arab Emirates until Friday, April 17.

The decision covers nurseries, kindergartens, and both public and private schools nationwide, ensuring continuity of education while authorities continue to monitor the situation closely. Officials confirmed that the arrangement will be reviewed weekly.

To support the transition, school administrations had already been provided with a comprehensive remote learning framework for the third academic term. The guide focuses on flexible scheduling, structured lessons, and maintaining strong communication between schools and parents to keep students engaged.

The move underscores the Ministry’s focus on maintaining uninterrupted learning while adapting to evolving circumstances.