The Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) has officially launched a new corporate identity, marking a major milestone in its journey toward innovation and global leadership in the aviation sector.

The new look is part of a wider strategy to modernise the authority’s image while staying true to its deep-rooted history and aligning with Dubai’s vision for the future of civil aviation.

A Fresh Start with a Nod to the Past

The identity was unveiled under the slogan “Returning to the Beginnings with New Horizons. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the DCAA, said the new identity represents a perfect balance of heritage and forward-thinking, symbolising a new era in the authority’s development.

Designed for the Future

The refreshed identity includes:

• A custom traditional typeface, inspired by the 1970s Civil Aviation Department nameplate
• A unified colour palette, symbols, and visual elements for all platforms
• A design that brings together heritage and modern aesthetics

Mohammed Abdulla Lengawi, Director-General of the DCAA, said the identity aims to foster a work environment of excellence, innovation, and institutional pride.

A Unified Brand

The updated identity will be rolled out across digital platforms, publications, and communication channels.

Dubai Holding has announced plans to list a 12.5% stake in its residential real estate investment trust (REIT), offering investors a new opportunity to tap into the emirate’s fast-growing property market.

The REIT, known as Dubai Residential REIT, focuses on leasing and manages a portfolio of 35,700 residential units across Dubai, including well-known communities like City Walk and Bluewaters. The listing will mark Dubai’s first IPO of 2025, with trading expected to begin around May 28.

According to sources, the offering could raise up to $500 million, although Dubai Holding has not officially confirmed the valuation.

Why It Matters

Dubai’s property sector has seen a major surge since the pandemic, driven by foreign investment and residency reforms. The city’s real estate prices have soared, reversing the effects of the 2009 crash, which had required a multibillion-dollar bailout. Since then, the government has worked to consolidate major developers and stabilise the market.

The Dubai Residential REIT is expected to become the largest listed REIT in the GCC, with a gross asset value of $5.9 billion (Dh21.6 billion). It also represents the latest effort by Dubai to make its property market more accessible to a broader pool of investors, particularly those seeking steady, long-term returns.

Investor Snapshot

Dubai Holding plans to offer 1.63 billion units in the IPO through its subsidiary DHAM Investments. The listing is structured for both retail and institutional investors and will follow a semi-annual dividend policy, with payouts beginning from 2026. The REIT aims to distribute at least 80% of its profit for that year.

Despite global market uncertainties and IPO slowdowns, Dubai Holding sees this as a defensive investment backed by government support and the emirate’s rising population.

Who’s Behind the Deal

Dubai Holding owns top-tier real estate brands such as Nakheel, Meraas, and Meydan. The company is also one of the UAE’s largest landowners. Citi, Emirates NBD, and Morgan Stanley are acting as global coordinators and joint bookrunners for the IPO.

Businesses in the UAE that missed the deadline to register for corporate tax have been given a welcome break. A new decision by the Ministry of Finance (MoF) and the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) waives administrative penalties for those who missed the registration deadline, as long as they meet specific conditions.

To benefit from the waiver, companies must submit their corporate tax returns or annual statements within seven months of their first tax period, in line with the UAE Corporate Tax Law.

Even better, businesses that already paid fines, but now meet the new conditions, will be eligible for refunds, according to the FTA.

This Cabinet-approved move aims to support businesses during the first year of corporate tax implementation, giving them more flexibility to comply with the new rules without facing hefty penalties.

Who’s Eligible?

• Companies or exempt entities that missed the registration deadline
• Must file their tax return or annual statement within 7 months of their first tax period

Why It Matters

The waiver reflects the UAE’s intention to ease the transition into the new corporate tax regime and encourage businesses to regularise their status without fear of penalties.

(Source: Wam)