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Dubai to have world’s largest airport

With the new terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport set to be built at a cost of AED128 billion, the airport will be five times the size of DXB….reports Asian Lite News

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, reviewed the strategic plan of the Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects and approved designs for the new passenger terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport, which will be the largest in the world when fully operational. Set to be built at a cost of AED128 billion, the new terminal will ultimately enable the airport to handle a passenger capacity of 260 million annually.

The approval came during His Highness Sheikh Mohammed’s visit to the Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects, accompanied by H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council, and H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance.

Sheikh Mohammed said, “Today, we approved the designs for the new passenger terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport, and commencing construction of the building at a cost of AED128 billion as part of Dubai Aviation Corporation’s strategy.

“Al Maktoum International Airport will enjoy the world’s largest capacity, reaching up to 260 million passengers. It will be five times the size of the current Dubai International Airport, and all operations at Dubai International Airport will be transferred to it in the coming years. The airport will accommodate 400 aircraft gates and feature five parallel runways. New aviation technologies will be employed for the first time in the aviation sector,” he said.

“As we build an entire city around the airport in Dubai South, demand for housing for a million people will follow. It will host the world’s leading companies in the logistics and air transport sectors,” His Highness added. “We are building a new project for future generations, ensuring continuous and stable development for our children and their children in turn. Dubai will be the world’s airport, its port, its urban hub, and its new global centre.”

Also accompanying Sheikh Mohammed during his visit were H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai; H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Aviation City Corporation, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group; and Mohammad bin Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs, and Chairman of the Dubai Executive Office.

Master plan reviewed

Sheikh Mohammed reviewed the master plan for the Airport of the Future, which, upon full development, will emerge as the world’s largest airport, covering an expansive area of 70 square kilometres. The airport will have an ultimate capacity exceeding 260 million passengers and 12 million tonnes of cargo per annum.

During the event, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed was briefed on the key design features and strategic implementation plan for the airport.

Commenting on the occasion, H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed stated, “With the continuous support and blessings of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed and in keeping with his vision for the Aviation industry in Dubai, we announce the commencement of the design and construction process for the new airport at Jebel Ali. It is expected that the first phase of the project will be ready within a period of 10 years, with a capacity to accommodate 150 million passengers annually.”

Addressing anticipated growth

Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed emphasised, “The new airport, which will ultimately be over five times the size of Dubai International, will prepare the ground for the next 40 years of anticipated growth in Dubai’s aviation sector. It will respond to the Hub Airline ambitious plans in terms of fleet acquisition and passenger growth. The airport will provide cutting-edge technologies, passenger facilities with unmatched level of service, and state-of-the-art aviation support facilities.

“Al Maktoum International (AMI) is planned in such a way as to represent a leap into the future. It will comprise of five parallel runways with a quadruple independent operation, west and east processing terminals, four satellite concourses with over 400 aircraft contact stands, uninterrupted automated people mover system for passengers, and an integrated landside transport hub for roads, Metro, and city air transport.

While embracing sustainability, Al Maktoum International will strongly contribute to mitigate environmental emissions, aligning with the UAE’s vision for a sustainably built environment. Its integrated approach is targeted to leverage local resources and climatic conditions achieving exemplary efficiency targets and sustainability goals. AMI aims to achieve a LEED Gold Certification.”

Khalifa Al Zaffin, Executive Chairman of Dubai Aviation City Corporation, highlighted the economic benefits of the project. “The development of this new airport will be an integral part of Dubai’s economy and major contributor to the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33). It will generate estimated workforce and residential requirement for over a million people living and working in Dubai South (the aerotropolis), which has been under development and operation since 2007,” he said.

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Financial Pioneers Honoured in Dubai

Dubai witnessed the launch of a new book featuring 35 top financial pioneers in the UAE. Prominent people from the business, economy and diplomatic sectors attended the event to witness the unveiling of “CA (Class Apart), Makers of World Economy”: A Groundbreaking Exploration of Financial Pioneers…reports Asian Lite News

Dubai-based DCom Designs has launched the “CA (Class Apart), Makers of World Economy.” This compelling first ever Coffee Table book delves into the remarkable stories of renowned financial institution owners, visionary businessmen in the finance field, and trailblazing accountants who have etched their names in the annals of global economics.

Prominent people from the business, economy and business sectors attended the event. H.E. Ambassador Aklilu Kebede of Ethiopia said  this kind of book is going to great for the next generation. Mr. Khaled Al Fahim, businessman and board member at Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, highlighted the importance of chartered accountants for the growth of economy.

“I am happy to be part of this event,” said H.E. Yaqoob Al Ali, a prominent Emirati businessman.

Mr. Paras Shedadpuri, a former diplomat turned entrepreneur and Chairman of Nikai Group, recalled the value of chartered accountancy (CA) when he founded his company years ago, and how it transformed it into a successful corporate entity.

“At its core, ‘CA (Class Apart), Makers of World Economy’ is a celebration of human ingenuity and perseverance,” says Vikas Bhargava. “It underscores the transformative power of vision, determination, and unwavering commitment to excellence. Through the stories shared within these pages, readers will discover that regardless of background or circumstance, greatness is within reach.”

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Hamdan lauds Dubai’s resilience

Sheikh Hamdan commended the efforts of government and emergency response teams…reports Asian Lite News

H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council, praised Dubai’s ability to overcome challenges and emphasised that the emirate – under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai – will continue to strengthen its standing as a global role model in every respect notwithstanding situations like the extreme weather events it experienced earlier in April.

Chairing a meeting of The Executive Council of Dubai today, Sheikh Hamdan commended the efforts of government and emergency response teams, including the Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management in Dubai, chaired by H.H. Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, in facing up to the testing situation brought on by the severe weather conditions.

Sheikh Hamdan also praised businesses, the wider community and volunteers for their cooperation and solidarity. “Dubai has once again demonstrated the strength and cohesiveness of its society; one that is based on unity, solidarity and readiness to face and overcome challenges. Dubai is blessed with its people and, on behalf of the leadership, we say: thank you.”

The meeting at Emirates Towers was attended by H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, and Deputy Chairman of The Executive Council; and H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Deputy Chairman of The Executive Council.

During the meeting, Sheikh Hamdan affirmed that Dubai is on track to realise the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid to be among the world’s most prepared, resilient and agile cities, capable of turning challenges into opportunities.

Sheikh Hamdan expressed his confidence in Dubai’s ability to address extreme weather events, given the competence displayed by teams who worked tirelessly before, during and after the heavy downpours to restore normalcy. He acknowledged the spirit of preparedness, oneness and cooperation amongst Dubai’s community, government and businesses that helped limit the impact of the extreme weather situation. He added that the experience serves as an opportunity to further enhance the emirate’s emergency responses in the future.

During the meeting, Sheikh Hamdan directed government entities to develop a comprehensive proactive plan to deal with extreme weather events. The Council also reviewed Dubai’s efforts to deal with the adverse weather situations that have impacted the region. More than 25,000 personnel and volunteers participated in the emergency response, in addition to around 5,000 security patrols, emergency vehicles, tankers, buses, and water pump operators.

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DXB back to normal operations

Dubai Airport has returned to its normal flight schedule and is back to operating around 1,400 flight movements a day….reports Asian Lite News

After the heaviest rainfall the UAE experienced in 75 years Dubai Airports is making remarkable strides in restoring and normalising operations at Dubai International Airport (DXB).

Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, said that since yesterday, ahead of its recovery schedule, DXB has returned to its normal flight schedule and is back to operating around 1,400 flight movements a day.

“With roads in and around the airport 100% clear of water accumulation, our manpower, logistics and facilities are operating as usual again. To have the airport back up and running is no small feat. Also, 2,155 flights were cancelled, and 115 were diverted. We had to work closely with our airline partners and service providers to rework schedules, boost manpower and look after all those who had been disrupted.

“I’m continuously amazed by the unwavering dedication of our Dubai Airports employees, airline partners, government agencies, commercial partners and service partners. It has been the most challenging adverse weather event we’ve had to navigate, and our people and partners worked tirelessly to keep the operation running and to assist our guests.”

He added that 31 flights were diverted to Dubai World Central (DWC), and by 19th April, all guests at the airport were successfully supported and continued onwards to complete their travel plans.

Guest welfare remained a key priority throughout the disruption, and although there were initial challenges in transporting supplies due to road closures around DXB and DWC, over 75,000 food packs were delivered across both airports.

“While certain challenges remain, including processing the baggage backlog, we’re working closely with our service partners but know there’s still more work to be done and once again, thank guests for their patience while we work through this,” added Griffiths.

He noted, “We’re deeply saddened by the ongoing impact of the heavy rainfall on affected communities and businesses across the UAE. We’re also supporting our own people who were badly affected by the weather and will continue to support wherever we can.”

As normal operations resume, guests should arrive at their terminal only three hours ahead of their flight departure time to avoid unnecessary congestion and facilitate smoother operations.

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-Top News Dubai

Initiatives launched to mitigate impact of severe weather in Dubai

The Crown Prince of Dubai directed the establishment of a committee to urgently review all requests from Emirati citizens affected by the heavy rains…reports Asian Lite News

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council, said that guided by the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, the emirate is always prepared to respond effectively to any challenge.

Highlighting Dubai’s robust crisis response mechanisms, he said that Dubai’s readiness is further strengthened by the strong support of the government and the community.

Sheikh Hamdan approved a series of initiatives and measures to urgently mitigate the impact of the severe weather in Dubai, which were formulated at a recent meeting he held with heads of government entities.

The meeting, attended by Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, evaluated the progress of efforts to ease the repercussions of the extreme weather in the emirate.

Guided by the directives of Sheikh Hamdan, and under the oversight of Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai’s Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management, Dubai Government’s on-ground teams, supported by community volunteers, have been actively working on urgent solutions to challenges, informed by a detailed assessment of the situation in affected areas.

The Crown Prince of Dubai directed the establishment of a committee to urgently review all requests from Emirati citizens affected by the heavy rains. The committee will determine the most appropriate measures to address these requests, prioritising the repair and rehabilitation of the homes of affected citizens.

Sheikh Hamdan also directed the Dubai Land Department and the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) to coordinate with property developers to expedite the restoration of normalcy in all communities managed by the developers. All residential management companies and real estate developers will offer the following services at no additional charges: alternative housing for residents affected by the weather; distribution of food within affected communities; comprehensive pest control services; enhanced security to ensure safety of residents; assistance with returning to residential properties, including interior cleaning services; monitoring and documenting damages caused by the rains during the insurance coverage period; and assistance in assessing potential risks to properties.

Sheikh Hamdan said that Dubai is determined to support all those affected by the adverse weather conditions, adding that he will personally monitor the progress of response measures. He emphasised that on-ground teams will provide effective support to all citizens and residents.

Sheikh Hamdan also directed the formation of a committee to support affected people, chaired by Omar Bushahab, CEO of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Housing Establishment. Members of the committee also include Dubai’s Community Development Authority, Dubai Municipality, the Roads and Transport Authority, the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, and the Department of Economy and Tourism. The committee is tasked with receiving and promptly addressing requests from citizens affected by the recent rains, ensuring that their concerns and needs are handled efficiently and effectively.

Sheikh Hamdan commended the Department of Economy and Tourism for collaborating with the private sector and hotels in Dubai to provide temporary accommodation for citizens affected by the extreme weather until their homes are repaired. He stressed the importance of offering immediate accommodation for all affected citizens during the repair period. The well-being of citizens remains the top priority of the Dubai government, he stressed.

He also directed Dubai’s Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department with monitoring and providing humanitarian support to people in need. He also instructed the Community Development Authority to activate the ‘Jood’ platform to receive contributions from the private sector to provide humanitarian assistance to people affected by the extreme weather in the emirate.

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DXB all set to return to full capacity

DXB gearing up for Eid travel rush

Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 have already begun gradual normalisation, resulting in smoother movement…reports Asian Lite News

Majed Al Joker, Chief Operating Officer of Dubai Airports, announced that Dubai International Airport (DXB) will resume normal operations within 24 hours, signifying a return to its full capacity and regular schedule.

Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 have already begun gradual normalisation, resulting in smoother movement, he said in a statement to the Emirates News Agency (WAM).

Emphasising passenger safety as the top priority, Al Joker highlighted collaborative efforts among airport teams, partners, and airlines to ensure a swift return to normalcy and support affected travellers.

Regarding the efforts made over the past hours and days, Al Joker emphasised that the airport’s response and emergency teams, various departments and strategic partners, and airlines have worked extensively to coordinate efforts to return to normal on the one hand, and to support and assist affected passengers and guests on the other.

He also stated that the entities that have worked and are still working to restore the situation to what it was before include a variety of private and government departments, as well as entities from inside and outside the airport.

The COO of Dubai Airports noted to the ongoing communication with passengers to address needs such as refreshments, flight rescheduling, or rebooking. “ While most airlines are operating, the situation remains dynamic, prompting travellers to contact their respective airlines for up-to-date information.”

Dubai Airports commended the dedicated staff for their tireless work in ensuring guest comfort and safety, expressing gratitude for travellers’ understanding during this period.

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-Top News Dubai UAE News

Dubai to develop plan for tackling weather emergencies

The directive came during a meeting His Highness held with heads of Dubai Government entities….reports Asian Lite News

H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, has directed heads of Dubai Government entities to develop a comprehensive proactive plan to further enhance Dubai’s preparedness for dealing with unexpected weather conditions.

The directive came during a meeting His Highness held with heads of Dubai Government entities.

The meeting was attended by H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance; and H.H. Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai’s Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management.

During the meeting, Sheikh Hamdan reviewed the rapid progress achieved in restoring normalcy across Dubai following the severe weather conditions.

He stated that the challenges Dubai encountered in recent days provide an opportunity for the emirate to enhance its emergency response systems and create a new mechanism backed by proactive plans to manage various scenarios.

Sheikh Hamdan said he is closely monitoring the situation along with government entities to address the challenges that emergency response teams faced following the extreme weather.

He further said that Dubai, guided by the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, seeks to continuously learn from past experiences and develop proactive plans to deal with all challenges. Adverse weather conditions have offered an opportunity for further improvement in the emirate’s crisis readiness plans, he added. The safety of every citizen, resident and visitor continues to be the Dubai Government’s highest priority.

The meeting was attended by Omar bin Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, and Director-General of the Office of the Crown Prince of Dubai; Abdullah Mohammed Al Basti, Secretary-General of The Executive Council of Dubai; Major General Talal Humaid Belhoul, Director-General of Dubai State Security; Mattar Al Tayer, Commissioner-General for Infrastructure, Urban Planning and Well-Being Pillar, and Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA); Dawood Al Hajri, Director-General of Dubai Municipality; Lieutenant General Expert Rashid Thani Al Matrooshi, Director-General of Dubai Civil Defense; and Mona Ghanem Al Marri, Director-General of the Government of Dubai Media Office.

During the meeting, Sheikh Hamdan was also briefed about the efforts of government entities to ensure the seamless delivery of services to members of the community.

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Atlantis Dubai Pioneers Inclusive Tourism Practices

IBCCES awards the CAC™ designation to organisations that complete a training and review process to understand better and assist autistic and sensory-sensitive guests and other persons of determination…reports Asian Lite News

Following the successful certification of Atlantis Aquaventure in 2023, Atlantis Dubai announced that Atlantis, The Palm and Atlantis The Royal have also earned the Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) designation from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). This certification marks the first resort destination in the Eastern Hemisphere to achieve this status. It reflects the team’s unwavering commitment to providing exceptional experiences to guests with diverse needs and ensuring an inclusive environment.

“We are incredibly proud to become the first resort destination in the Eastern Hemisphere to earn the Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) designation,” said Kelly Timmins, Director of Marine Animal Operations and Sustainability at Atlantis Dubai. “Partnering with IBCCES is part of our long-term Corporate Social Responsibility strategy under the Atlantis Atlas Project, with initiatives focused on supporting people and the planet on our journey to becoming a sustainable tourism business. We look forward to welcoming all guests to Atlantis Dubai for an enjoyable and memorable experience.”

IBCCES awards the CAC™ designation to organisations that complete a training and review process to understand better and assist autistic and sensory-sensitive guests and other persons of determination. This designation ensures that at least 80 percent (an IBCCES minimum requirement) of colleagues are trained in autism and sensory awareness and are fully equipped to provide service to people on the autism spectrum. In collaboration with IBCCES, Atlantis Dubai staff underwent extensive training to understand the range of potential guest needs. More than 90 percent of guest-facing colleagues across both resorts took training in Autism & Sensory Awareness (ASA). In addition, the Learning & Development team developed a Weekly Briefing Topic on Autism and Sensory Awareness, which an additional 1,500 colleagues completed across Atlantis Dubai.

In addition to training, further achievements include:

The Atlantis Dubai website hosts an accessibility tab that provides guests with downloadable sensory guides. Outlined for rooms and restaurants at Atlantis, The Palm and Atlantis The Royal, as well as experiences across Atlantis Aquaventure, these guides provide a sensory rating, allowing people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) to pre-plan their visit to the destination. 

Allocated quiet zones are available across both resorts in case people need a moment of respite from sensory stimulation. Locations include the concierge lounge, outdoor cabanas, Imperial Club lounge, and the Explorers Club underwater theatre at Atlantis, The Palm, and the Royal Club lounge, outdoor cabanas, Royal Majlis banquet lounge, and the Explorers Club lounge at Atlantis The Royal.

By completing the CAC™ programme, Atlantis Dubai is helping to lead the way as part of a broader Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) initiative for Dubai to become the first Certified Autism Destination™ (CAD) in the Eastern Hemisphere. In just one year, the city has already reached the halfway point, and this significant milestone, achieved under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, underscores Dubai’s dedication to inclusivity and accessibility for all travellers.

“Atlantis Dubai is at the forefront of revolutionizing accessibility standards within the hospitality industry. Their pioneering initiatives at Aquaventure Waterpark, coupled with securing this designation for Atlantis, The Palm and Atlantis The Royal, demonstrate a profound dedication to inclusivity. And we wholeheartedly commend their tireless efforts,” said Myron Pincomb, IBCCES Board Chairman. “This collective commitment across the industry is propelling Dubai towards its goal of becoming a Certified Autism Destination™, reshaping the tourism landscape to ensure that everyone, regardless of ability, can fully embrace, savour, and craft cherished memories in this extraordinary city.”

During World Autism Month this April, Atlantis Dubai invites persons of determination to participate in the destination’s complimentary access programme for Aquaventure Waterpark and The Lost Chambers Aquarium. Two complimentary tickets to Aquaventure Waterpark and The Lost Chambers Aquarium are available for a person of determination and one caregiver by presenting a valid ID Card at the ticketing plaza. Two accompanying guests will also receive 50 per cent off admission tickets.

Guests can also inquire and make special requests through a form on the Atlantis Dubai website before their destination visit at www.atlantis.com/dubai/about/accessibility.

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Arab News Business UAE News

Dubai luxury home sales mark 19 percent increase


Dubai’s luxury home market sees a 19 percent increase in sales, with Palm Jumeirah leading in both sales volume and total value, while Dubai Hills Estate emerges as a rising hotspot for luxury home buyers…reports Asian Lite News

According to the latest analysis from global property consultant Knight Frank, one hundred and five homes priced in excess of US$10 million were sold in Dubai during the first three months of the year. This marks a 19 percent increase compared to Q1 2023.

Faisal Durrani, Partner – Head of Research, MENA, explained, “The level of deal activity in Dubai continues to strengthen, particularly at the top end of the market, where the near constant stream of international high-net-worth-individuals vying for the city’s most expensive homes persists.

“The laser-like focus of the global wealthy on Dubai is best reflected in the rapid deterioration in the volume of $10 million+ homes for sale, which has fallen by 59 percent across the city over the last 12 months to just 864 homes.”

The total value of luxury homes sold during Q1 stands at $1.73 billion, up six percent from Q1 2023. This builds on Dubai’s emergence as the world’s busiest $10 million+ homes market.

Knight Frank says that last year, Dubai recorded 431 home sales above $10 million, nearly 80 percent higher than the next nearest contender—London (240). New York (211) rounded off the world’s top three most active luxury home markets in 2023.

Palm Jumeirah registered deals worth $628 million, and dominated the luxury homes market during Q1, accounting for 36.3 percent of sales by total value. Jumeirah Bay Island (11.1 percent) and Dubai Hills Estate (seven percent) followed in second and third place, respectively.

While Palm Jumeirah (39) also led the pack in terms of the total number of luxury homes sold, Palm Jebel Ali (ten) and Business Bay (seven) registered more high-end home sales than Jumeirah Bay Island or Dubai Hills Estate.

According to Knight Frank, other markets, away from the headline-grabbing Palm Jumeirah, Jumeirah Bay Island, and Emirates Hills, are fast rising in prominence among luxury home buyers, with Dubai Hills Estate, for instance, standing out as a market to watch.
Will McKintosh, Regional Partner and Head of Prime Residential, MENA, said, “Dubai Hills Estate has quietly for some time been rising up the ranks as not only one of Dubai’s most sought-after markets for domestic buyers, but now luxury home buyers are increasingly active here too.

“The relative proximity to both Downtown and New Dubai, combined with access to an international school, excellent neighbourhood facilities and amenities, and, of course, its abundance of green space, is quickly making Dubai Hills Estate one of Dubai’s most desirable neighbourhoods. Prices have unsurprisingly responded to the growing demand to live here and have risen by almost 11 percent in the last 12 months, while the number of homes available for sale has fallen by 75 percent to just over 1,000 units this past March.”
Knight Frank has previously found in its Destination Dubai 2023 report that access to parks and green space ranks as the most important consideration amongst global HNWI when considering an investment in the emirate.

According to Knight Frank, Dubai’s prime residential market, which includes Palm Jumeirah, Jumeirah Bay Island, and Emirates Hills, has also experienced a surge in performance.

Durrani concluded, “After growing by 16.3 percent in 2023, following an extraordinary 44.4 percent increase during 2022, Dubai’s prime residential market has grown by 26.3 percent over the last 12 months, easily making it one of, if not the fastest growing prime residential market globally. While these startling growth rates are phenomenal, it does not take away from the fact that Dubai’s luxury homes market still remains one of the most affordable in the world.

“Indeed, $1 million secures some 980 square feet of prime residential space in Dubai, compared to just 366 square feet in New York, 355 square feet in London, or 172 square feet in Monaco.”

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Arab News Dubai Technology

DEWA’s Commitment to Customer Experience, Sustainability, and Service Excellence

DEWA Head office

DEWA provides many digital services and smart tools to help customers better understand and manage their electricity and water consumption…reports Asian Lite News

Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) is dedicated to enhancing the customer experience through the adoption of digital solutions and AI across its services and operations. With a focus on providing proactive, advanced, and seamlessly integrated digital services, DEWA aims to surpass customer expectations. Additionally, DEWA is deeply committed to sustainability, actively working to reduce its carbon footprint. To ensure service excellence, DEWA implements the ‘Services 360’ policy, which involves analyzing and measuring service maturity levels over a three-year plan (2023-2025), aligning with the master plan of the General Secretariat of the Executive Council of Dubai Government.

Implementing the ‘Services 360’ approach has led to tangible results: service automation reached 100%, self-services that do not require physical presence reached 100%, digital adoption of DEWA’s services reached 99.2%, customer happiness reached 98.3%, and service quality reached 95%. In 2023, DEWA’s digital services achieved savings of AED 470 million for customers and AED 35 million for DEWA, in addition to avoiding 41,470 tonnes of carbon emissions.

“In line with our ongoing efforts to serve customers and make them happier, we are keen to provide innovative digital services that allow customers to conduct their transactions anytime, anywhere. This saves their time and efforts and supports DEWA’s strategy for sustainability and environmental protection by reducing the consumption of natural resources. DEWA has achieved notable success in implementing the ‘Services 360’ approach. In the first phase of the implementation, 15 out of 22 services met all standards, exceeding 300% of the targets of the first phase for 2023. The ‘Services 360’ policy provides a roadmap and work plan for government departments in Dubai to provide seamless, proactive, and integrated services that focus on the customers, meet their needs, and enhance their experience in receiving the services, supporting the ‘one government’ concept,” said HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA.

Digital services and smart tools

DEWA provides many digital services and smart tools to help customers better understand and manage their electricity and water consumption. DEWA’s ‘Smart Living’ dashboard enables customers to monitor their daily, monthly, and yearly consumption; ‘My Sustainable Living Programme’ allows them to compare their consumption with similar highly efficient homes and provides customised tips to manage their consumption efficiently; ‘Away Mode’ allows customers to receive consumption reports when they are not at home; and the ‘Consumption Assessment Tool’ provides a detailed report after filling out the consumption assessment. In addition, DEWA provides a wide range of special offers and discounts to its customers through the DEWA Store, in collaboration with many public and private sector companies. The offers encourage customers to adopt a smart and sustainable lifestyle and help transform their houses into smart homes.

‘Services 360’ policy

The ‘Services 360’ policy focuses on eight main principles that unify work streams in providing services across government entities. The principles include a digital-first experience based on the provision of digital and real-time services, as well as adopting a digital identity (UAE Pass) as a unified entry system, while providing full support to the customer. They also include proactive services that enhance communication with customers to anticipate their needs for the services and respond accordingly, ultimately reducing the efforts made by the customers. Additionally, the policy entails an integrated data and services system that minimises data requirements from the customer and facilitates services by connecting databases among government entities, as well as unified and customised channels built based on the customer’s preference and made available 24/7.

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