The Dubai news you might have missed this week: May 18 to 22
ICYMI
If you’ve been working hard and missed the important news updates in Dubai this week, we’ve rounded up everything you need right here.
Sheikh Mohammed reveals UAE’s AI-driven government plans
The UAE is set to become the first government in the world to deploy Agentic AI across its public sector, following a major announcement by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. The AI shift will reinforce the UAE’s position as a global leader in adopting Agentic AI across government operations. The Dubai Ruler shared the first phase has already been launched, covering vital sectors: Procurement, Tax Audit, Customer Happiness, and Technical Support. Sheikh Mohammed stated that this isn’t just another ‘government project, but a model that will inspire the world. Technology must serve people and enhance quality of life. This remains the UAE’s enduring commitment to future generations.’
Read more here.
The UAE is investing Dhs1 billion to power its next space chapter
The UAE is setting its sights even higher with a new one billion dirham initiative aimed at strengthening its position in the global space economy. The International Space Cooperation Programme will support global collaboration in space research and development while accelerating the UAE’s long-term ambitions in the sector. It will focus on developing homegrown capabilities, advancing new technologies, and turning innovation into space industries that create jobs, attract investment, and strengthen global collaboration.
Read more here.
Big change to UAE salary rules for private sector from June 1, 2026
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) has introduced a new rule requiring private sector companies in the UAE to pay employee salaries on the first day of every month, starting June 1, 2026. The move aims to strengthen wage protection and improve compliance. The new rules require that the establishments submit documentation and data confirming that salary payments have been made, and failure to do so will result in the MOHRE enforcing a series of measures.
Read more here.
New 5% VAT to be added to Salik gates in Dubai from June
You’ll soon be paying a bit more if you’re a motorist in Dubai. There’s a new 5% VAT tax that will be added to Salik toll gat usage fees and also Salik tag activation, the company announced. The company announced on a post on X that this 5% VAT will be applied and effective from June 1, 2026. Salik added that VAT amounts collected will be remitted to the UAE’s Federal Tax Authority in accordance with applicable laws and regulations in the country.
Read more here.
Emirates issues advisory for travel over Eid Al Adha 2026
Emirates is expecting a high volume of passengers travelling from Dubai during the Eid Al Adha break and has issues a travel advisory to make sure everything runs as smooth as possible. The airline has advised to arrive at least three hours before your departure from Dubai and be at your boarding gate at least 60 minutes before departure. During peak travel periods, it may take longer than usual to pass through security and immigration and to reach your gate. They also recommend arriving by Dubai Metro to avoid traffic congestion.
Read more here.
British Airways cut Dubai flights this summer
British Airways has scaled back its Middle East schedule for summer 2026, cutting services to key destinations. Flights between London and Dubai, for instance, drop from three daily services to just one until August 1, with a second daily flight returning from October 16.
Read more here.
Turkish Airlines to resume flights to Dubai from June
Turkish Airlines is set to resume flights to Dubai from Monday, June 8. A quick look online shows that the returning Dubai to Istanbul route will come back as a daily service, with fares available from Dhs3,200. The resumption of flights between Istanbul and Dubai will further enhance connectivity for those looking to travel to and through Istanbul from Dubai while also unlocking wider destinations across Turkey – and Europe – ahead of the summer travel period.
Read more here.
UAE announces national healthcare system
The President of the UAE, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, has announced a national healthcare system that guarantees comprehensive medical care and health services for all citizens. The new system marks a major milestone in the UAE’s continued investment in the wellbeing and quality of life of its people, helping to create a more connected and comprehensive healthcare network across the country. By unifying coverage across the emirates, the initiative aims to make healthcare services more streamlined, efficient and accessible for citizens wherever they are in the UAE, as it includes all emirates.
Read more here.
UAE tenants might now need credit checks
Tenant credit checks in the UAE are starting to become part of the rental process, giving landlords a clearer picture while keeping tenants in control. Landlords can request your score only if you approve, and while it might seem like an extra step, it’s designed to make applications smoother and more transparent for everyone.
Read more here to know how it works.
Dubai unveils plans for a dazzling new Museum of Digital Art
Dubai’s arts and culture section is getting an exciting new addition: a Museum of Digital Art (MODA). Unveiled by HH Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, the Museum of Digital Art is set to become a landmark new addition to the city’s cultural landscape. It will be dedicated to digital art and new technologies with an aim ‘to create a dynamic environment for artists, researchers, and emerging talent from across the local and international digital arts sector’.
Read more here.
