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Free coffee, AI tributes, and love across generations mark Dubai Ruler’s birthday

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From complimentary coffee in Dubai and London cafes to touching AI-generated video tributes, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, was honoured across generations and platforms as he marked his 76th birthday on Tuesday, July 15. The day saw a blend of heartfelt gestures, both online and in real life, from local businesses surprising customers with free coffee to family members sharing nostalgic, tech-powered tributes that celebrated his remarkable journey as a leader, father, and visionary.

Marking the occasion, Saddle Cafe, an Emirati brand with branches in Dubai and London, surprised customers by picking up the tab for their drinks. Customers were delighted to find their receipts stamped with the message: “Your coffee is on the house in celebration of the birthday of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum.”

The gesture quickly gained attention on social media, where users praised it as a reflection of the UAE’s values of generosity, community, and leadership.

“This is what the UAE is all about,” wrote one X (formerly Twitter) user.
“A beautiful tribute for a beloved leader.”

#MohammedBinRashid trends across social platforms

The birthday of Sheikh Mohammed saw an outpouring of love online. Social media platforms were filled with rare photographs, leadership quotes, and prayers wishing the leader good health and a long life.

Many referred to him as a “dream maker” and “nation builder,” praising his vision, resilience, and lasting impact on the UAE and the wider Arab world.

“May Allah bless our leader, the man who turned Dubai into a global icon,” read one tribute.

A family tribute powered by AI

In a modern twist to traditional celebrations, Sheikh Mohammed’s children and grandchildren honoured him with AI-generated video tributes, creatively blending technology with emotion.

The widely shared videos chronicled Sheikh Mohammed’s journey from childhood and military service to public life and leadership, offering a deeply personal look at his legacy.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, posted a moving video showing AI-rendered moments with his father, from his boyhood to their more recent appearances together. The video struck an emotional chord with thousands across the UAE and beyond.

Created using advanced AI tools, the videos conveyed messages of pride, gratitude, and admiration for a leader who has inspired generations.

A legacy of leadership

According to the UAE Government Portal, Sheikh Mohammed was born in 1949. He began his public service career in 1968 as Head of Dubai Police and Public Security, became the UAE’s first Minister of Defence in 1971, and served as Crown Prince of Dubai from 1995 to 2006. He has been Ruler of Dubai, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE since January 2006.

From free coffee cups to cutting-edge tech tributes, this year’s celebration of Sheikh Mohammed’s birthday reflected not only his profound influence on the UAE’s past and present but also the deep affection and admiration he continues to inspire across generations and borders.

With over 35 years of experience in journalism, copywriting, and PR, Michael Gomes is a seasoned media professional deeply rooted in the UAE’s print and digital landscape.

Announcements

Ajman to launch new Rental Dispute Resolution Centre under 2026 law

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Ajman has announced the establishment of a new Rental Dispute Resolution Centre, aimed at streamlining landlord-tenant disputes and strengthening stability in the emirate’s real estate sector.

His Highness Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ajman, has issued Law No. (1) of 2026, formally creating the centre and replacing the existing rental disputes committee.

Clearer, Faster Rental Dispute Resolution

The new law introduces transparent and clearly defined mechanisms for reviewing and adjudicating rental disputes, with the objective of:

  • Protecting the rights of landlords and tenants
  • Enhancing confidence in Ajman’s property market
  • Supporting a stable and attractive investment environment

Jurisdiction and Scope

The specialised centre will have authority over all rental-related disputes between landlords and tenants, including:

  • Residential and commercial properties
  • Properties located within free zones

Cases will be handled using procedures aligned with recognised legal and judicial standards, ensuring fairness and consistency.

Boosting Market Stability

Officials said the new centre is designed to:

  • Speed up dispute resolution
  • Reduce litigation timelines
  • Ensure swift and effective justice

The move is expected to contribute to social and economic stability in Ajman’s leasing and real estate sector, while reinforcing investor confidence.






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Abu Dhabi updates traffic diversion rules, Darb tolls to boost road safety and efficiency

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The Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) has announced new amendments to Abu Dhabi’s traffic diversion regulations, aimed at improving traffic flow, safety and compliance at construction and roadwork sites across the emirate.

The updated framework strengthens oversight of traffic permits, enhances enforcement powers and introduces clearer procedures for emergency works.

Key Changes to Traffic Diversion Rules

Under the revised regulations:

  • Definitions related to traffic permits and No Objection Certificates (NOCs) have been updated to improve clarity
  • Traffic permits are non-transferable; any attempt to transfer a permit will render it invalid
  • Emergency works may proceed without prior permit approval, provided all road safety requirements are met
  • ITC must be notified before emergency work begins, and a formal permit application must be submitted within 24 hours if work exceeds 12 hours

Permit Suspension and Enforcement Powers

The amendments grant ITC expanded authority to:

  • Temporarily suspend issuing traffic permits based on site conditions or safety risks
  • Reject extension requests or cancel permits if requirements are not met
  • Take action against entities that exceed approved timelines or commit repeated administrative violations

The schedule of violations and fines has also been updated to reflect current standards, with conflicting older provisions officially repealed.

Training, Inspections and Compliance

ITC said the changes followed specialised workshops and training programmes for contractors, consultants and relevant stakeholders to ensure proper implementation of safety standards.

The Centre will continue inspection campaigns and field visits, with fines imposed on violators to:

  • Protect road users and workers
  • Maintain public safety
  • Safeguard road infrastructure

Changes to Abu Dhabi’s Darb Road Toll System

Separately, ITC (Abu Dhabi Mobility) confirmed updates to the Darb road toll system.

New Darb Toll Timings

  • Morning peak: 7am to 9am (unchanged)
  • Evening peak: 3pm to 7pm
  • Toll-free: Sundays and official public holidays

The Dh4 toll per gate crossing remains unchanged.

Removal of Toll Caps

The revised system removes:

  • Daily toll cap of Dh16
  • Monthly caps of Dh200, Dh150 and Dh100 for first, second and additional vehicles

Exemptions Remain

Existing exemptions continue for eligible groups, including:

  • People of Determination
  • Low-income families
  • Senior citizens and retirees

The Darb system is operated by Q Mobility, a subsidiary of ADQ, in coordination with relevant authorities.







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Entertainment

Dubai launches ‘Dubai+’ family streaming platform to boost digital media and creative economy

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Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council, has approved the launch of Dubai+, a new family-oriented digital media platform, reinforcing Dubai’s ambition to become a global hub for digital media and the creative economy.

The approval came as Sheikh Ahmed chaired the Dubai Media Council’s first meeting of 2026 at Dubai Media, where members reviewed sector strategies and plans to strengthen content creation, innovation and local production capabilities.

What is Dubai+?

Dubai+ will offer a wide range of family-friendly content, bringing together:

  • Local and Emirati productions
  • Arab series and films
  • International entertainment

The platform reflects Dubai Media’s integrated digital ecosystem strategy, responding to shifting viewer habits and the growing demand for high-quality, on-demand digital content.

“We believe media is a strategic force that shapes awareness, supports development and builds trust,” Sheikh Ahmed said. 

Boosting Local Film and Content Production

The Council also reviewed plans to:

  • Enhance local production capabilities
  • Support cinema as a cultural and creative industry
  • Invest in programmes that drive creative and economic growth

Samr Al Marzooqi, Director of Films and Production at the Dubai Media Council, outlined upcoming initiatives aimed at showcasing Emirati and international talent while strengthening Dubai’s film sector.

Next Phase of Growth

Mona Al Marri, Vice Chairperson and Managing Director of the Dubai Media Council, said the next phase will focus on monitoring implementation and ensuring measurable outcomes across the sector.

Secretary General Nehal Badri added that priorities include encouraging private sector participation, accelerating content development, and investing in talent, advanced production technologies and future-ready capabilities.








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