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UAE ranks second most hardworking country in the world

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The UAE is the world’s second hardest working country, according to a report by communications agency duke+mir. Residents in the Emirates work an average 50.9 hours per week, but they also have fun, with 97% going out for entertainment every month. The study, which included a poll of more than 1,000 residents, also found that seven in 10 people in the UAE dine out every single week.

The duke+mir study included a commissioned survey of UAE residents and global statistics from the International Labour Organization (ILO). The ILO data showed that the UAE was only behind Bhutan for average hours worked per week. Lesotho, Congo and Qatar completed the top five.

Mir Murtaza Khurshid, Partner at duke+mir discussed the report’s findings, “This study highlights that the UAE is proudly one of the most hard-working countries in the world. Emirati nationals and expatriate workers are contributing to the UAE’s rapid growth and success, but also finding time to have fun and enjoy themselves. With some of the world’s most exciting entertainment options, it’s clear that the UAE is the global capital of ‘work-hard, play-hard’ culture.”

In line with the UAE’s vision for a healthy nation, the research also found encouraging participation in sports, with two-thirds (66%) of people playing sport every week, with that figure rising to 75% among young adults (18-24 years old).

In addition, the poll found that every week 37% of UAE residents go out to watch live sports, 24% go to the cinema and 23% go to a live performance (such as a concert, gig or theatre event).

The report also covers at-home activities. Every week, more than eight in 10 people (83%) watch movies and nearly seven in 10 (68%) tune in to live sports from the comfort of their home. The data also uncovered that much of that viewing comes from subscriptions – 81% of UAE residents have one or more paid subscriptions. However, nearly a third of people in the UAE have subscriptions that they rarely use and would like to cancel, potentially equating to millions of dirhams in dormant accounts.

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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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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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