Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, has announced a groundbreaking Dh2 billion partnership between Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company (du) and Microsoft to develop a new hyperscale data centre in the city.

The announcement came during Dubai AI Week 2025. The initiative is part of the Dubai Future Foundation’s broader vision for positioning the emirate as a global leader in digital innovation.

The new data centre, to be built in multiple phases, will cater to the surging demand for AI capabilities and sovereign cloud solutions. Microsoft will be the anchor tenant, using the facility to support its expanding cloud services and next-gen digital infrastructure across the region.

“This project is a key investment in Dubai’s digital future,” said Sheikh Hamdan. 

The move is part of the Dubai Universal Blueprint for Artificial Intelligence, launched in 2024. The new facility also supports Dubai’s goal of diversifying beyond traditional telecoms into future-focused industries, contributing to the city’s emergence as a hub for innovation, sustainability, and AI-driven economic growth.

Dubai AI Week 2025 continues until April 25, with over 180 speakers, 150 sessions, and participation from innovators and experts representing more than 100 nationalities.

(Source: Wam)

Dubai Taxi Corporation (DTC) has partnered with Al-Futtaim Electric Mobility to add 200 BYD SEAL electric cars to its fleet. This is a big step towards a more sustainable Dubai and supports the UAE’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions.

The BYD SEAL is a modern electric sedan that can travel 600 km on a single charge, making it perfect for Dubai’s busy streets. It offers a smooth, quiet ride while helping the city go green. This move is part of DTC’s plan to switch to a completely electric fleet by 2040.

A Step Towards a Greener Future

The DTC’s push for electric taxis is also helping Dubai reach its goal of cutting down on pollution and building a cleaner city. Over 86% of DTC’s current fleet is already eco-friendly, surpassing the Roads and Transport Authority’s (RTA) goal to make all taxis green by 2027.

Comfort and Innovation Combined

The BYD SEAL cars are designed with the latest electric technology, ensuring they are reliable and eco-friendly. This partnership is not just about changing the DTC fleet; it’s a model for other cities to follow as they look to adopt green transport solutions.

A Greener Tomorrow for Dubai

This new electric taxi initiative is part of Dubai’s broader plan to become a global leader in sustainable development. The city aims for a zero-emission future by 2040, and with more eco-friendly vehicles joining the public transport system, it’s well on its way.

Gold prices in Dubai took a sharp dip on Wednesday morning, falling below the symbolic Dh400 mark per gram, offering some much-needed relief to buyers following a record-setting rally earlier this week.

The price for 24-carat gold opened at Dh399.50 per gram, a significant drop from Dh420 on Tuesday. The decline comes after weeks of price surges that had seen rates climb almost hourly.

Other gold variants also saw notable decreases:

• 22K gold is now priced at Dh370.00, down from Dh388.75
• 21K gold sits at Dh354.75, previously Dh372.75
• 18K gold dropped to Dh 304.00 from Dh319.50

Mixed Reactions from Consumers

The recent rollercoaster in gold prices has sparked a variety of responses across the city. While some residents rushed to sell old jewellery for cash at higher prices, others opted to buy new pieces in anticipation of further increases.

Local jewellers say shoppers are gravitating towards lighter jewellery designs and smaller investment pieces like gold coins. Some are even trading in older items to secure better value at current rates, according to a local report.

Global Factors at Play

On the international stage, spot gold fell by 0.7% to $3,357.11 per ounce, while US gold futures dropped 1.5% to $3,366.80.

The dip is largely attributed to a rebound in the US dollar index. Market sentiment shifted after US President Donald Trump backed away from earlier plans to dismiss Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, a move that reassured investors and strengthened the dollar.

Earlier price surges were driven by a weaker dollar, recession fears, and tense US-China trade relations. Now, with the dollar stabilising, gold prices are adjusting accordingly.

For real-time updates and historical data on gold prices in Dubai, visit GoldTrade.ae.