Latest news with #Dh800
Filipino Times
05-07-2025
- Business
- Filipino Times
UAE airfares drop as residents opt for shorter summer trips
Last-minute summer travel has become more accessible for residents of the United Arab Emirates this year, with airfares declining significantly compared to previous years. Economy-class fares from Dubai to London are now available for as low as Dh1,300 on connecting flights, a notable decrease from last year's average of Dh2,500. From Abu Dhabi, tickets to Mumbai are priced at Dh708 for travel between July 15 and 31, while some routes to destinations in the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) and India are being offered for as low as Dh610 to Dh800. 'We are seeing a much more manageable increase in airfares this July,' said Rashid Abbas, Managing Director of Arooha Travels. 'Prices to several destinations are far more attractive than in the past two years.' While some European destinations still carry higher fares, ranging from Dh2,500 to Dh3,800 for direct flights, budget airlines have helped lower costs. Carriers such as Eurowings, Wizz Air Abu Dhabi, and Air Arabia Abu Dhabi offer one-way fares from Dubai to Paris for Dh2,815 and to Berlin for Dh1,860. Travel agencies say the decline in prices is being driven by changing consumer behavior. 'People are no longer travelling for one to two months at a stretch, but rather for shorter durations of two to ten days. Travellers are now returning sooner,' said Sapna Aidasani, Head of Marketing at Pluto Travels. Aidasani added that destinations closer to the UAE, including Azerbaijan, select Schengen countries, and parts of Africa, are becoming increasingly popular among residents looking for short-term travel options.
Gulf Insider
26-06-2025
- Business
- Gulf Insider
Illegal Partitioned Rooms, Bed Spaces In Dubai: Safety Risks And The Search For Sustainable Housing Solutions
Crackdown on illegal partitioned rooms and bed spaces is underway, targeting serious safety risks—from fire hazards to blocked emergency exits—in crowded residential buildings, particularly in areas like Deira. Recently, Dubai Municipality, alongside the Dubai Land Department and Civil Defense, has launched intensified inspections across key residential hotspots like Deira, Al Riqqa, Satwa, Al Barsha, and Al Raffa. Their target? Illegal partitioned rooms and bed spaces that pose serious safety risks—from fire hazards to blocked emergency exits—in crowded residential buildings. Partitioned rooms might seem like a quick fix for affordable housing, especially for lower-income residents, but in Dubai, they're a big no-no without official approval. Authorities are taking a firm stand against these unauthorized modifications, emphasizing that safety cannot be compromised for convenience or cost savings. Scroll through Facebook ads for just a few minutes, and you'll find a shadow housing market thriving in plain sight. Partitioned rooms are being rented out for as much as Dh1,400 a month—often just a slice of someone else's living space, separated by thin walls or curtains. In Satwa, a loft bed squeezed above a cupboard in a makeshift room can go for Dh600. It's barely enough space to stand, let alone live. In Deira, partitions can be found for Dh650, sometimes higher if they come 'all in'—meaning free Wi-Fi, DEWA, and maybe a balcony shared with several others. For those chasing affordability, a 'fully closed' partition can go as low as Dh800 in some areas, or Dh700 for a single-person slot. The price varies by location and perks, but the bottom line remains: these setups are often cramped, poorly ventilated, and unregulated. Yet for many low-income workers, these hidden corners of the city are the only option. The question is—how long can this patchwork system go on before safety, dignity, and affordability collide? But the problem isn't confined to old Dubai's jam-packed neighborhoods—it's creeping into the city's most upscale corners. Take Dubai Marina's Jumeirah Beach Residences, for example. A British tenant, living in Dubai since 2008, who requested anonymity, blew the whistle on a four-bedroom apartment in Sadaf illegally converted into a seven-bedroom bunker, crammed with up to 60 people sleeping in bunk beds. Some are renting beds at a bargain Dh100 each, openly advertised on Facebook as a 'holiday home' — without a single permit. This isn't just rule-breaking; it's blatant exploitation and a disaster looming on the horizon. With no proper air conditioning, zero privacy, and fire exits blocked by makeshift bedrooms in utility spaces, the risk isn't hypothetical—it's a disaster waiting to happen. The consequences could be catastrophic. As Dubai cracks down on illegal partitions, the conversation around affordable and safe housing for low-income workers is reaching a boiling point. The challenge goes beyond enforcement—it calls for bold, creative solutions that balance dignity, safety, and economic realities. Some experts suggest government-backed subsidized housing schemes tailored for workers earning less than Dh2,000 a month. Imagine safe, regulated homes within the city that don't cost a fortune but meet strict safety standards—a real alternative to cramped, unsafe rooms. Developers could also play a key role – Builders can include affordable, purpose-built accommodations in their projects, creating a long-term fix rather than a quick patch. Meanwhile, flexible shared housing models—legal co-living spaces with privacy and safety—could offer a modern, community-driven solution that respects workers' needs and budgets. For those who can't afford Dubai rents, relocating to more affordable cities on the outskirts is an option—but the long commute poses a significant challenge. Some have proposed transport subsidies or dedicated shuttle services to ease the burden on workers' time and finances. As Dubai continues to grow and transform, safe and affordable housing for its workforce is no longer optional—it's urgent. The crackdown on illegal partitions exposes a deeper crisis that needs real solutions. With smart enforcement, bold innovation, and public awareness, Dubai can build safe, inclusive, dignified homes for everyone who powers the city's success.
Al Etihad
25-06-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
Etihad Credit Insurance announces Dh174 million funding for SME growth in partnership with four leading banks
25 June 2025 19:03 DUBAI (WAM)Etihad Credit Insurance (ECI), the UAE's federal export credit company, announced the impact of its 'Xport Xponential' programme, which has helped raise Dh174 million in funding to support the growth of SMEs, during the closing ceremony of the working capital was raised with the support of four of ECI's banking partners: First Abu Dhabi Bank, Commercial Bank of Dubai, Ajman Bank, and Al Maryah Community Bank. ECI also remains committed to securing similar funding and capital for SMEs in collaboration with its other banking programme's closing ceremony was held under the patronage of Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, the Minister of Economy and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Etihad Credit Insurance. The event aligns with the Ministry's mission to develop a flexible future economy and robust entrepreneurial ecosystem by facilitating investment and talent Touq stated, 'The 'Xport Xponential' programme plays a pivotal role in advancing the UAE's ongoing efforts to increase the contribution of small and medium-sized enterprises to the country's non-oil GDP. It also directly supports the objectives of the 'We the UAE 2031' national strategy, which aims to increase non-oil exports to Dh800 billion and expand foreign trade volume to Dh4 trillion by the next with export and re-export activities between the UAE and countries with which we have Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPA), already exceeding Dh390.5 billion, the initiative leverages existing trade momentum to help SMEs unlock the untapped potential of these markets, particularly as the UAE continues to expand its economic and trade partnerships with key strategic markets worldwide.'CEO of Etihad Credit Insurance, Raja Al Mazrouei, highlighted ECI's role in empowering UAE-based businesses to compete on a global level. She stated that 'Xport Xponential' serves as a dynamic platform for local businesses and potential importers to connect. Al Mazrouei further stated that the programme identifies high-potential export markets for a wide range of products, allowing small businesses to expand globally with greater ease and added, 'ECI's 'Xport Xponential' programme aligns with the UAE's strategic vision to diversify its revenue sources away from oil. It offers integrated financial and insurance solutions, particularly to SMEs, enabling them to scale internationally, while mitigating major export-related risks.'Group Head of Personal, Business, Wealth, and Privileged Client Banking Group at First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), Futoon Hamdan AlMazrouei, said, 'First Abu Dhabi Bank is pleased to be a banking partner of 'ECI's Xport Xponential programme,' an initiative that reflects the UAE's strategic vision for economic diversification and sustainable growth. We are strongly aligned with the Ministry of Economy's mission to foster a flexible, future-ready economy and a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem by enabling investment and attracting top talent. By empowering SMEs with access to working capital and innovative trade finance solutions, we are unlocking new opportunities for global growth. The programme strengthens the UAE's competitiveness and supports its ambition to expand trade across strategic international markets.'On the collaboration, CEO of Commercial Bank of Dubai, Dr. Bernd van Linder, stated, 'Commercial Bank of Dubai is proud to be a foundational partner in ECI's Xport Xponential programme. With a legacy of over five decades in backing the growth of the UAE, we continue to demonstrate our commitment today by empowering the nation's vibrant SME sector and creating tangible impact that supports the economic diversification and global competitiveness of the UAE. We look forward to continuing our work with ECI to unlock even greater opportunities for businesses across the Emirates, building on the significant momentum already achieved.'CEO of Ajman Bank, Mustafa Al Khalfawi, said, 'We are proud to be part of the 'Xport Xponential' programme in collaboration with Etihad Credit Insurance, which represents a significant milestone in empowering SMEs to access new growth frontiers. Our participation reflects Ajman Bank's unwavering commitment to supporting the UAE's national agenda, particularly Ajman Vision 2030 and We the UAE 2031, by providing Sharia-compliant financing solutions that enable local businesses to scale internationally. The Dh174 million in funding collectively raised through this initiative is a powerful testament to the strength of public-private sector collaboration. We will continue to build on this momentum by enabling innovative trade finance and expanding our role as a catalyst for sustainable economic development.'CEO of Al Maryah Community Bank, Mohammed Wassim Khayata, commented, 'We are proud to partner with Etihad Credit Insurance on the 'Xport Xponential' programme, which represents a significant milestone in empowering the UAE's SMEs to access global markets with confidence. At Al Maryah Community Bank, we are committed to offering fully digital, fast, and innovative financing solutions that simplify exporters' daily operations and enhance their global initiative not only aligns with the UAE's vision to diversify its economy and boost non-oil exports but also opens new opportunities for local businesses in vital sectors to thrive internationally. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with ECI to ensure that manufacturers and exporters are equipped with the tools, knowledge, and capital they need to scale beyond borders.'The 'Xport Xponential' programme was launched to fulfil the dual objectives of catalysing SMEs' global expansion and driving SME financing with the help of partner banks. It was introduced during the third edition of 'Make It in the Emirates' (MIITE), held in May 2024, with the aim of accelerating the global expansion of UAE-based SMEs by offering financial support and ensuring their export readiness through innovative trade finance and credit insurance many as 42 companies applied for the programme, out of which 10 were shortlisted based on rigorous evaluation criteria. These companies have collectively generated Dh2.1 billion in turnover to date and are now targeting expansion into four key markets—Indonesia, India, Saudi Arabia, and Oman—with a combined export potential of Dh31.3 billion over the next four years across ten vital in collaboration with 19 strategic partners, the programme exemplifies ECI's role in driving sustainable economic growth by connecting businesses with international opportunities and tailored trade finance the programme's inception, ECI's partnerships with government entities and banks have increased by 27 percent, reflecting its role in nurturing a robust export-enablement ecosystem that connects the public and private sectors under a unified with leading financial institutions have helped facilitate consistent, reliable support and access to growth-oriented funding for UAE SMEs. ECI also hosted a workshop in January 2025 to offer the selected companies' essential tools and resources, further supporting their export growth journey. In addition, these companies belong to diverse economic sectors, showcasing the programme's wide-reaching impact across key Xponential's vast partner list features 19 key strategic partners, including both federal and local entities, which are: the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development, Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, Dubai Airport Free Zone, Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Ajman Department of Economic Development, Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zones, as well as Fujairah Department of Industry and financial and banking partners include Emirates Development Bank, Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank, First Abu Dhabi Bank, Commercial Bank of Dubai, Ajman Bank, RAKBANK, National Bank of Fujairah, International Development Bank, Wio Bank, Al Maryah Community Bank and Reem Finance. It is also worth noting that since its inception, ECI has insured Dh21 billion in support of local exports and completed underwriting for premiums totalling Dh447 million.
Hi Dubai
20-05-2025
- Automotive
- Hi Dubai
Dubai's Parkin Launches New Monthly Parking Subscription for Select Areas
Dubai motorists can now avoid parking stress and fines with Parkin Company's newly launched monthly subscription service, covering designated parking zones across the city. The service offers a flexible, cost-effective alternative to hourly parking fees and eliminates the need to constantly track parking time. Parkin's subscription plans provide access to roadside spaces, public lots, and private community zones, tailored to daily commuters, residents, and frequent visitors. Subscriptions can be managed easily through Parkin's mobile app or website. Residents can subscribe for parking in the following key locations, each with specific pricing and conditions: Dubai Hills public parking (631G) Light vehicles only, one vehicle per subscription 1 month: Dh500 | 3 months: Dh1,400 | 6 months: Dh2,500 | 12 months: Dh4,500 Silicon Oasis (Limited area) Includes 5% VAT, non-refundable fees, one vehicle per subscription 3 months: Dh1,000 | 6 months: Dh1,500 | 12 months: Dh2,500 Silicon Oasis Zone (H) 3 months: Dh1,400 | 6 months: Dh2,500 | 12 months: Dh4,500 Wasl Communities (Zones W & WP) Valid only for Dubai Wasl Real Estate public parking Refund possible if canceled within 48 hours One vehicle per subscription 1 month: Dh300 | 3 months: Dh800 | 6 months: Dh1,600 | 12 months: Dh2,800 Roadside and plot parking (Zones A, B, C, D) Roadside parking (zones A and C) limited to 4 hours max per session Plot parking (zones B and D) allows up to 24 hours 1 month: Dh500 | 3 months: Dh1,400 | 6 months: Dh2,500 | 12 months: Dh4,500 Parking plots only (Zones B and D) Parking permitted up to 24 consecutive hours 1 month: Dh250 | 3 months: Dh700 | 6 months: Dh1,300 | 12 months: Dh2,400 Select your preferred parking area on the map or enter the area name. Choose your subscription type and duration. Provide required information and documents. Complete payment via the app or website to activate your subscription. Up to three vehicles can be linked per Dubai traffic file, but only one vehicle can be active at a time, with 30-minute switching intervals. For traffic files outside Dubai or company-registered vehicles, only one vehicle can be added. Subscription fees are non-refundable. Downgrading from roadside & plots parking to plots only is not allowed. A Dh100 fee applies for any vehicle information modifications. Recent changes in Dubai's parking tariffs Parkin recently introduced variable parking rates across Dubai. Premium public parking now costs Dh6 per hour during peak times — 8am to 10am and 4pm to 8pm — on weekdays, excluding weekends and public holidays. Dubai's paid parking is divided into four zones: A, B, C, and D. Premium areas within these zones, marked AP, BP, CP, and DP, are located near metro stations or high-traffic commercial areas and carry higher rates due to demand. This subscription model combined with variable tariffs reflects Dubai's ongoing effort to streamline parking management and enhance convenience for motorists. News Source: Khaleej Times
Khaleej Times
20-05-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
UAE: Flying taxi launch ‘on track' for later this year, says Archer
US-based company Archer Aviation, which will launch flying taxis in the UAE, on Tuesday announced that its launch in the country remains 'on track for later this year'. The eVTOL aircraft maker said in its first quarterly results that it plans to deliver a piloted Midnight aircraft to the UAE this summer. 'Archer's pushing the boundaries of what's possible and reshaping the future of aviation for years to come. This quarter, the team made strong progress across our civil and defecse efforts as we continue to deepen our strategic partner relationships and prepare for commercialisation in the UAE later this year,' said Adam Goldstein, founder and CEO of Archer. To support these launch efforts, Archer recently secured design approval for the first hybrid heliport in the UAE located in Abu Dhabi. It also partnered with the UAE regulator General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) to chart regulatory framework for expedited launch of eVTOL. In April, the GCAA granted design acceptance to Archer for the first hybrid heliport in the country at the Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal at Zayed Port. This first site was chosen due to its location, which is a leading hub for the regional cruise industry, welcoming more than 650,000 visitors every year. In the previous quarter, the US-headquartered company rolled out its 'Launch Edition' programme and announced Abu Dhabi Aviation and Ethiopian Airlines as its first two customers. The UAE has been aggressively pursuing new modes of transport such as flying cars, railways and underground train network to accommodate growing traffic in the country. As reported by Khaleej Times earlier, once air taxis are out flying in UAE skies, going from Dubai to Abu Dhabi could take just 10 to 20 minutes, with the ride costing about Dh800 to Dh1,500. The company announced that the initial training of pilots is underway as the Midnight simulator has been delivered to Etihad Aviation Training in Abu Dhabi. In addition to Archer, Joby is in talks with Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority to roll out an air taxi network in the emirate. The company announced building the first vertiport in the emirate in November last year.
