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Over 27,800 new member companies join Dubai Chamber of Commerce in 2021

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4 years ago

March 9, 2022

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Over 27,800 new member companies joined the Dubai Chamber of Commerce in 2021, a 66.8 per cent increase compared to 2020. This brings the organisation’s total membership to over 287,000.

In 2021, the Dubai Chamber of Commerce saw the return on investment of its digital transformation over the years. The Chamber processed more than 704,400 e-transactions during the year. It also succeeded in fully digitising its core services by 100 per cent, which enabled it to serve its members and customers remotely and efficiently.

The Chamber also achieved its goal of becoming 100 per cent paperless by the end of 2021, representing an important milestone in its digital transformation mission.

The value of exports and re-exports of Dubai Chamber of Commerce members amounted to Dh227 billion, and a total of 669,922 certificates of origin were issued by the organisation last year. Meanwhile, 4,495 ATA Carnets worth Dh4.5 billion were issued and received by the Chamber. The ATA Carnet system is managed by the Dubai Chamber of Commerce in cooperation with Dubai Customs, facilitating the temporary entry of imports to Dubai.

Dubai Chamber reviewed 52 draft local and federal laws and ministerial decisions during 2021 to ensure a favourable business environment. The organisation’s Legal Services department received 200 mediation cases, of which 175 were virtual mediation cases, while 66 cases were settled amicably.

Dubai Chamber continued exploring business opportunities in promising markets worldwide as it received 2,983 visiting delegations and met with over 6,800 delegates from 73 countries in 2021. A total of 85 business networking events were organised, attended by 15,000 businesspeople.

The Chamber’s 11 representative offices in Africa, Eurasia and Latin America held 2,398 virtual meetings with more than 4,052 investors interested in expanding its business network and activities to Dubai.

The Chamber’s external offices organised 39 virtual events, attended by 4,280 participants from around the world, and participated in 347 other events to promote Dubai as a global business hub, identify business opportunities, and build relationships with key stakeholders in promising markets.

Abdul Aziz Al Ghurair, chairman of Dubai Chambers, described 2021 as “an exceptional year for the business community in Dubai”.

He noted that the government’s effective measures and proactive policies put the emirate on a steady path of economic growth, with the biggest uptick in business activity felt within the tourism, hospitality, trade and retail sectors.

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Dubai’s latest road upgrades: RTA cuts commute times across 18 neighbourhoods

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4 hours ago

April 15, 2026

Michael Gomes

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If your drive home felt a little smoother today, you aren’t imagining it. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) just wrapped up a massive 13km road enhancement project across 18 different Dubai neighbourhoods.

We’re talking new pavement, better street lighting, and smarter roadside parking, all designed to make your daily point A to point B a whole lot easier.

40% faster journeys

The Director of Roads at RTA, Hamad Al Shehhi, confirmed that these upgrades aren’t just about looks. By paving previously unpaved sections and tightening up the road networks, the RTA has managed to slash journey times by up to 40% in these areas.

Is your neighbourhood on this list?

The project was rolled out in phases to cover a massive chunk of the city. Here are the 18 residential areas that just got a major makeover:

North & East: Al Khawaneej 1, Al Mizhar 1 & 2, Al Twar 1, Al Rashidiya, Mirdif, and Muhaisnah 1.
Central: Jumeirah 1, Al Satwa, Al Hudaiba, Zaabeel 1, and Nad Shamma.
South & Industrial: Al Barsha 1, Al Barsha South 1, Al Quoz 1 and 3, Umm Suqeim 1, and Umm Ramool.

More than just asphalt

This project was a full glow-up for local streets. Aside from the new roads, the RTA added:

Provision of roadside parking (no more circling the block!).
New pavements for a more pedestrian-friendly vibe.
Upgraded street lighting to keep things safe after sunset.

With all the latest upgrades, Dubai wants to make city life better for citizens as it grows.

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Sharjah Ruler saves local tourism and wildlife: New eco-friendly boats coming to Kalba lake

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7 hours ago

April 15, 2026

Michael Gomes

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In a move that’s the definition of a win-win, His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has stepped in to save a local business while protecting Sharjah’s wildlife. He suspended a decision by the Department of Economic Development to shut down a tourist boat project operated by Abu Hamad from Kalba.

What happened?

The Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD) originally pulled the plug on the project because traditional boat propellers were becoming a danger to the rare turtles living in the lake. While it seemed like the end of the road for the project, Sheikh Dr Sultan went on the Direct Line radio programme to deliver some good news.

The green solution

Instead of closing the business, the Ruler ordered a total tech upgrade. Here’s how the project is being saved:

Propeller-free zone: The traditional boats will be replaced with specially designed, eco-friendly versions that won’t harm marine life.
Custom-built: If these specific boats aren’t available on the market, Sheikh Dr Sultan confirmed they will be specially manufactured for the project.
Full support: The owner, Abu Hamad, was personally reassured that he would be supported so he could continue his work without any financial loss.

This isn’t just about one business, it’s about how Sharjah is balancing tourism with its fragile ecosystems. Kalba’s mangroves are home to some of the region’s most unique habitats, and this intervention ensures that people can still explore the natural beauty of the emirate without putting wildlife at risk.

“We will provide boats designed for such environments, boats that do not use propellers but operate in a way that does not harm these living creatures,” said Sheikh Dr Sultan.

News

US Embassy lifts shelter-in-place for UAE staff: What citizens need to know

Published

8 hours ago

April 15, 2026

Michael Gomes

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After a tense period, the US Embassy in the UAE has officially called off its shelter-in-place advisory for employees. With attacks coming to a halt, staff are back on the move, but the embassy is making it clear: Stay alert.

The Current status?

While the stay indoors order is over, it’s not exactly business as usual. Here’s the breakdown of where things stand right now:

Travel advisory: The UAE remains at Level 3: Reconsider Travel.
Staffing: Non-emergency personnel are still relocated outside the country, meaning the embassy and consulate are on ordered departure status.
Services: Routine visa services are suspended, and consular help is currently limited to emergencies and essential passport services.

Tips for US citizens in the UAE

The embassy is advising everyone to keep their guard up. If you’re a US citizen in the area, here is your checklist:

Get the App: Enroll in STEP (Smart Traveller Enrollment Programme) to get real-time security pings.
Stay prepared: Keep food, water, and medications handy. Whenever the emergency alarm is sounded, stay away from glass windows.
Charge up: Keep your phone charged and save those emergency numbers.
Low profile: Be aware of your surroundings and keep your friends/family posted on where you are.

Emergency contacts