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Fintech world’s best minds converge at inaugural Dubai Summit

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Dubai is set to host the first-ever Dubai Fintech Summit on May 8 and 9 under the patronage of Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of the UAE.

The event will take place at Madinat Jumeirah and will bring together over 5,000 global Fintech C-suite executives and technology experts to discuss the latest innovations and challenges in the sector.

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The Summit will feature a lineup of distinguished speakers from both local and international arenas. Notable speakers include Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy, and chief executives Bill Winters, Brad Garlinghouse, Piyush Gupta, Jenny Johnson and Brian Armstrong from Standard Chartered, Ripple, DBS Bank Singapore, Franklin Templeton and Coinbase respectively, among others.

Mohammad AlBlooshi

Mohammad Alblooshi, head of organisers DIFC Innovation Hub and Fintech Hive, underscored the importance of the summit. “Nearly 60% of all Fintech companies in the GCC are currently based in the city. With the industry growing at an unprecedented rate, it is crucial for stakeholders to gather and discuss the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. The Dubai Fintech Summit promises to bring together the most prominent figures in the industry, with an agenda that will captivate and inspire audiences worldwide.”

The global Fintech sector is rapidly growing and is predicted to be valued at $305 billion globally by 2025, according to Research and Markets, an intelligence and market analysis firm.

In the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA) region, the industry is expected to double in value from $135.9 billion in 2021 to $266.9 billion in 2027, according to a 2022 report by DIFC Fintech Hive.

The DFS will offer a unique platform for startups, investors, and industry leaders to connect and capitalise on the growing Fintech market in the region and beyond. The DFS will feature a series of panel discussions, fireside chats, and over 100 Fintech exhibitors.

There are over 800 Fintech startups worth $15.5 billion in the MEASA region alone, according to data by dealroom.co. Dubai alone is home to over 20% of the world’s Fintech businesses, according to a report by Mordor Intelligence.

Mastercard’s 2022 Digital Payments Index report reveals that digital payments are gaining traction in the MENA region. More than 85% of respondents reported using at least one emerging payment method in the past 12 months, indicating a shift away from cash-based transactions. Among MENA countries, the UAE stands out as being ready to embrace a cashless society. According to the event’s co-host sponsor Visa, 52% of UAE consumers are already cashless or plan to be by 2024.

The DFS will offer attendees a platform to participate in discussions and exchange ideas on emerging trends, regulatory frameworks, and future possibilities.

The event will feature discussions on a range of topics, including ‘Building the Economies of the Future’, ‘Crypto and the Evolving Regulatory Framework’, ‘The World of Finance: Where are the Women?’, and ‘Building a Resilient and Sustainable Financial Sector in the Age of Disruption’. Participants will have the opportunity to gain valuable insights on these critical issues from industry leaders and experts.

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Flying during FIFA World Cup? This Dubai airline will show every match live 

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Football fans travelling with Emirates this summer won’t have to worry about missing any FIFA World Cup 2026 action. Dubai’s flagship airline Emirates, has announced that it will broadcast every match of the tournament live onboard its flights through Sport24, its dedicated live sports channel available on the award-winning ice entertainment system.

Passengers will be able to follow every moment of the world’s biggest football tournament while flying at 40,000 feet. The move ensures customers can stay connected to the action no matter where they are travelling, with live coverage available throughout the competition.

Emirates said the complete FIFA World Cup 2026 broadcast schedule is featured its ice magazine, allowing passengers to plan their journeys around key fixtures and follow their favourite teams during the tournament.

The live coverage will be available on most Emirates aircraft equipped with Sport24 and Sport24 Extra, although availability may vary depending on aircraft type and route. Selected FIFA World Cup matches will also be shown in Emirates Lounges across Dubai, giving travellers additional opportunities to catch the action before departure.

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Dubai’s RTA to build one of its largest pedestrian and cycling bridges in city

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Dubai is set to strengthen its position as a global leader in smart urban mobility by constructing one of the emirate’s largest pedestrian and cycling bridges.

Stretching 730 metres across Dubai–Al Ain Road, the landmark structure will connect the rapidly growing communities of Liwan and Dubai Silicon Oasis, offering residents a safer and more convenient way to travel. The project forms part of the Roads and Transport Authority’s wider plan to build 31 new pedestrian bridges and tunnels across the city by 2030, enhancing connectivity, road safety and sustainable transportation.

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has approved a five-year plan that will introduce new pedestrian crossings at key locations across the emirate. The projects will be developed along major roads, including Sheikh Zayed Road, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street, Al Ittihad Road, and Omar bin Al Khattab Street, helping residents and visitors move more safely and efficiently throughout the city.

Enhancing safety and connectivity

The expansion aims to improve accessibility, strengthen links between residential communities and public transportation networks, and provide safer crossing options for pedestrians. Authorities selected project locations following detailed studies that assessed population growth, pedestrian movement patterns, public transport access, and proximity to commercial and tourist destinations.

Landmark bridge

One of the standout projects currently under development is a 730-metre pedestrian and cycling bridge that will cross Dubai–Al Ain Road. The structure will serve as a critical connection between Liwan and Dubai Silicon Oasis, two rapidly developing communities that continue to attract residents and businesses.

Once completed, the bridge will become one of the largest pedestrian and cycling crossings in Dubai, offering a safer and more convenient route for commuters, cyclists, and residents.

Advanced safety features

The upcoming bridges and tunnels will incorporate modern safety technologies, including firefighting systems, emergency alarms, remote monitoring capabilities, and dedicated cycling lanes. These enhancements are designed to improve user safety while supporting Dubai’s ambition to achieve zero traffic fatalities.

As the city continues to expand, the new pedestrian infrastructure projects are expected to play a key role in promoting sustainable mobility, reducing road risks, and strengthening Dubai’s reputation as a global leader in smart urban development.

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Kuwait launches 15-year residency visa: How it compares to UAE Golden Visa

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Kuwait has unveiled a new long-term residency programme that will allow eligible foreign investors and business leaders to live in the country for up to 15 years, marking one of the region’s latest efforts to attract international capital and strengthen economic growth.

The residency scheme is designed to provide greater stability for investors looking to establish, operate and expand businesses in Kuwait, while supporting the country’s broader plans to diversify its economy and enhance its competitiveness as an investment destination.

Who can apply?

Under the new framework, residency permits of up to 15 years will be available to:

  • Foreign investors meeting approved investment criteria
  • Immediate family members of eligible investors
  • Senior executives accredited by approved investment entities
  • Recognised business partners linked to qualifying investment projects

Authorities say the programme aims to encourage long-term commitments from investors while creating a more attractive business environment.

Investment requirements

To qualify, applicants must satisfy a number of conditions set by Kuwaiti authorities.

Eligible investors must own or be associated with investment entities licensed by the Kuwait Direct Investment Promotion Authority (KDIPA). Businesses must also maintain active operations within Kuwait and comply with national workforce requirements, including quotas related to the employment of Kuwaiti citizens.

The framework requires a minimum investment capital of KD1 million in approved business activities. In addition, licensed investment entities must maintain a total investment value of at least KD5 million.

Officials believe these requirements will help attract high-quality investments that contribute to economic development and job creation.

How it compares with UAE Golden Visa

One of the most prominent examples is the UAE’s Golden Visa programme, which was launched in 2019 and offers eligible individuals residency of up to 10 years.

The scheme is available to investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, scientists, exceptional students, creatives and humanitarian contributors. It allows holders to live, work and study in the UAE without requiring a national sponsor, while also enabling them to sponsor family members.

The programme has become a key pillar of the UAE’s strategy to attract talent, innovation and long-term investment, helping cement its reputation as one of the region’s leading destinations for business and residency.

Kuwaiti authorities said the programme builds on existing investment legislation and forms part of ongoing efforts to modernise Kuwait’s business and regulatory environment.

Kuwait’s latest move reflects a growing trend across the Gulf, where governments are introducing long-term residency options to attract investors, entrepreneurs and highly skilled professionals.

Countries across the region have increasingly adopted residency programmes designed to encourage foreign investment, support economic diversification and attract global talent.

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