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World’s first date cola Set to shake up UAE’s soft drink scene

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Dubai is about to get a taste of Milaf Cola, the world’s first date-based fizzy drink that’s already gone viral in Saudi Arabia.

Ditching traditional sweeteners, this revolutionary cola uses date extract, making it a healthier and more sustainable alternative to mainstream sodas. The drink was originally created to reduce food waste by repurposing dates. The Kingdom grows a certain variety of dates that need to be eaten semi-dry. But when it becomes too soaked, no one eats it even though the fibre content and sweetness increase. “So from a sustainable perspective, we brought the date into our factory and got an extract which we then used to produce the cola,” Mohamed El-Nahas, Senior Director of Product Development, was quoted as saying in the local media.

After its sensational launch in November 2024, Milaf Cola is now gearing up for its UAE debut in April, thanks to a partnership with the Lulu Group. The cola will be available in three flavours: classic cola, orange, and lemon.

Cola Wars Heat Up in the UAE 

Milaf isn’t the only new kid on the block — India’s Campa Cola is also making a comeback, and another buzz-worthy entrant, 51 Agave Cola, is bringing a natural agave-sweetened soda to the region. This drink, free from additives, comes in cherry and spiced flavours for those looking for a guilt-free sip.

With all these new-age colas hitting UAE shelves soon, soda lovers are in for an exciting, bubbly showdown. 

(Source: ET, Khaleej Times)

With over 35 years of experience in journalism, copywriting, and PR, Michael Gomes is a seasoned media professional deeply rooted in the UAE’s print and digital landscape.

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Dubai launches Dh650 million Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary upgrade 

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In a major push for urban sustainability and eco-tourism, Dubai Municipality has unveiled a Dh650 million development project to transform the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, to attract 250,000 to 300,000 visitors annually,  a six-fold increase from current numbers.

The announcement, made on Monday, confirms that the first phase of the project has been awarded and will be completed by the end of 2026.

A sanctuary at the heart of the city

Nestled just minutes from Dubai’s city centre, Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the region’s most important wetland reserves. It is internationally recognised as a BirdLife International Important Bird Area (IBA). It is home to more than 450 species of flora and fauna, including migratory birds, marine life, and rare vegetation.

Popular observation spots include:

  • Flamingo Hide – for iconic views of greater flamingos
  • Mangrove Hide – ideal for spotting grey herons, spoonbills, kingfishers, and even ospreys

First phase: Expanding ecosystems and blue spaces

Phase one of the development focuses on expanding and enhancing the sanctuary’s natural environment:

  • 144% increase in water body area, growing to 74 hectares
  • 10 hectares of new mudflats (salt flats) to support migratory birds
  • 60% rise in carbon dioxide absorption, improving environmental resilience

What’s next in phase two?

The second phase will introduce more green spaces, native vegetation, and enhanced habitats to attract additional wildlife and further boost biodiversity. The plan also includes:

  • Upgraded walkways and bird hides
  • New educational signage and visitor infrastructure
  • A commitment to engaging, sustainable exploration for families, tourists, and students

Why it matters

This ambitious project reflects Dubai’s broader commitment to sustainability, conservation, and eco-education, making Ras Al Khor not just a refuge for wildlife but a living classroom and green escape within the city.

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Abu Dhabi shuts down food company over safety violations

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The Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (Adafsa) has ordered the administrative closure of MS Food Trading for violating Law No. (2) of 2008, which governs food safety in the emirate. The establishment was found to pose a risk to public health, prompting swift regulatory action.

The closure is part of Abu Dhabi’s ongoing inspections across restaurants, food outlets, groceries, and food trading businesses to ensure compliance with food safety standards.

Is the closure permanent?

According to Adafsa, the closure will remain in effect until the violations are corrected or a final court ruling is issued. The business will only be allowed to resume operations once it receives official approval from the Authority.

What counts as a food safety violation?

Under UAE law, food is considered harmful to health if it meets any of the following conditions:

  • Contains poisonous substances, banned food additives, or high levels of pesticide residues
  • Is contaminated with bacteria, worms, or radioactive materials
  • Includes harmful allergens, hormones, or veterinary drug residues
  • Comes from a sick animal or one that died before slaughter
  • Is expired, improperly stored, or exposed to cross-contamination
  • Has misleading labels or is adulterated with other substances

Food safety authorities urge consumers and businesses to remain vigilant and report any suspected violations. For ongoing updates, follow official channels or visit Adafsa’s website.

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Dubai completes first successful test flight of aerial taxi with Joby Aviation

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In a landmark move toward the future of urban mobility, Dubai has successfully conducted the region’s first test flight of the Joby Aerial Taxi, signalling a major step forward in launching full operations by next year.

The flight was carried out at a designated desert testing site through a collaboration between Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and California-based Joby Aviation, a leading developer of all-electric, vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.

The announcement was made by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of the Executive Council. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Sheikh Hamdan described the milestone as a “major step” in Dubai’s journey to becoming a global leader in aerial transportation and eco-friendly innovation.

“Dubai has completed the region’s first test flight of the Joby Aerial Taxi,” Sheikh Hamdan posted. “Our nation’s skies have opened to new possibilities, and the best is yet to come.”

The future of flying taxis in Dubai

The Joby Aerial Taxi is an all-electric, low-noise aircraft capable of vertical take-off and landing, designed to dramatically cut commute times while reducing carbon emissions. The aircraft is a key part of Dubai’s wider plan to transform urban mobility, relieve road congestion, and boost sustainability through innovative technologies.

The aerial taxi service is expected to:

  • Slash intercity travel times
  • Improve air quality through electric propulsion
  • Integrate with Dubai’s smart city infrastructure
  • Enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors

A leap toward sustainable innovation

This test flight represents more than just a technological breakthrough, it underscores the UAE’s commitment to sustainability, innovation, and global leadership in advanced transport solutions.

The aerial taxi initiative aligns with the government’s 2030 smart mobility vision and complements other ambitious RTA projects focused on autonomous transport, AI integration, and clean energy adoption.

Full commercial operations of the Joby Aerial Taxi are expected to launch in 2026.

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