The UAE has marked a significant milestone in its logistics sector, with Etihad Rail successfully transporting its first consignment of Nissan vehicles by rail from Fujairah to Abu Dhabi.

The shipment, carried from the ports of Fujairah to the dry port at the Industrial City of Abu Dhabi (ICAD), represents the first time cars have been transported via the country’s national rail network. The move was carried out in collaboration with Al Masaood Automobiles and Etihad Rail Freight.

Industry leaders say the development signals a major step forward in diversifying rail cargo beyond traditional bulk commodities, expanding into high-value shipments such as finished vehicles. It also highlights the growing role of rail in integrated, end-to-end supply chains across the UAE.

Omar Alsebeyi, CEO of Etihad Rail Freight, described the milestone as a clear demonstration of the network’s capabilities. For the automotive sector, the collaboration marks a first-of-its-kind partnership.

Beyond efficiency gains, the shift to rail freight also supports sustainability goals. Rail transport produces significantly lower emissions compared to road freight, aligning with the UAE’s broader environmental ambitions, including the Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative.

Officials say the milestone reflects the strength of the UAE’s integrated infrastructure ecosystem, where strategic investments and private sector collaboration are driving innovation in logistics and supporting long-term economic growth.

Dubai is taking a bold step in the global fight against hunger, with Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, announcing the launch of the world’s largest dates factory aimed at feeding millions of malnourished children each year.

The landmark initiative will produce up to 150 million date-fortified food units annually, targeting children suffering from malnutrition in some of the world’s most vulnerable communities.

Announced on Friday, the project is being developed in collaboration with key partners, aligned with a broader humanitarian vision led by Sheikh Mohammed. The factory will transform dates, a staple deeply rooted in the UAE’s heritage, into high-value nutritional products designed to combat hunger at scale.

“The goal is to produce 150 million date-fortified food units annually, dedicated to children suffering from malnutrition,” Sheikh Mohammed said, highlighting the UAE’s commitment to global food security.

He emphasized the cultural and historical significance of dates in the region, noting that palm trees have sustained communities for generations. The new initiative seeks to build on that legacy by repurposing the fruit into a modern solution for one of the world’s most urgent challenges.

The project forms part of a wider humanitarian push by the UAE. Earlier this year, Sheikh Mohammed launched the Edge of Life Ramadan campaign, which aims to help save five million children under the age of five from hunger and malnutrition.

Officials say the initiative also reflects a broader call for collective action, encouraging participation from individuals, institutions, and organisations across the UAE to support vulnerable populations worldwide.

By combining tradition with innovation, the UAE’s latest project signals a growing role in tackling global humanitarian challenges, one that extends far beyond its borders.

A new limited-edition collection of gold and silver commemorative coins has been launched in the UAE, celebrating national unity while supporting community development efforts across Dubai.

The initiative, led by Emirates Minting Factory in collaboration with Dubai Gold District, is inspired by the ‘Proud of UAE’ campaign and is available exclusively within the district. The collection offers collectors and investors a chance to collect a symbolic piece tied to a defining moment in the nation’s recent history.

Beyond its collectable value, the project carries a philanthropic dimension. Proceeds from the sale of the coins will go to Ferjan Dubai, a social enterprise focused on strengthening community life and enhancing social well-being across neighbourhoods.

Officials say the initiative reflects a broader message of unity and resilience. Essa Al Falasi, Chairman of Emirates Minting Factory, described the coins as symbols of “gratitude and solidarity,” noting that the project aims to combine tangible value with meaningful impact. As a UAE-founded company, he added, the factory sought to contribute in a way that resonates with both national pride and social responsibility.

Each coin is crafted with investment-grade 1 oz gold and silver, reflecting the UAE’s heritage through detailed design and high-quality minting. The collection is positioned not only as a commemorative keepsake but also as a long-term asset for collectors.

The launch comes amid a growing trend of purpose-driven luxury products in the region, blending investment appeal with social impact.