Latest news with #DubaiLoop
Morocco World
09-06-2025
- Automotive
- Morocco World
Spanish Media: Elon Musk's Dubai Loop Mirrors Spain-Morocco Tunnel Project
Rabat — Spanish media, including El Faro de Ceuta, suggest that Elon Musk's newly unveiled Dubai Loop carries a resemblance to the undersea tunnel project seeking to connect Spain and Morocco. In February, the Tesla CEO and billionaire Musk announced the Dubai Loop project that seeks to ensure a fast transportation system across Dubai's densely populated areas. According to UAE news agency WAM, Musk stressed that the project would allow people to travel 'as they were moving through a 'wormhole' within Dubai.' ' Musk spoke about improving government efficiency, pointing out that the biggest challenge lies in reducing bureaucracy and enhancing the technology used within government institutions,' the news agency said, noting that the tech entrepreneur stressed the importance of strong public support for such reforms. El Faro de Ceuta said today that the project involves parallels to the proposed underwater tunnel between Spain and Morocco, which aims to connect the two territories across the Strait of Gibraltar in the coming years. In May, converging reports said that Spain allocated €1.6 million to study the viability of an underwater tunnel connecting Europe and Africa. The Spanish Ministry of Transport reportedly reduced the initial budget from €2.4 million after modifying some planned tasks. Herrenknecht, the world-leading German company in tunnel development and implementation, is studying construction feasibility, with the aim of completing the assessment by June. The project is in line with efforts and commitment from the two countries to upgrade infrastructure and boost cooperation at all levels, as Spain and Morocco are co-hosting the 2030 World Cup alongside Portugal. In March, the Moroccan government announced plans to invest $1.25 billion in highway infrastructure projects ahead of the World Cup. The investment plan covers the period from 2025 to 2032, focusing on three major projects: the Continental Rabat-Casablanca Highway, the Tit Mellil-Berrechid Highway, and transforming the Ain Harrouda and Sidi Maarouf junctions. .
Daily Tribune
10-04-2025
- Automotive
- Daily Tribune
Musk's Boring Company Eyes Underground Transit in Riyadh
Elon Musk's infrastructure venture, The Boring Company, is reportedly preparing to submit a proposal to Saudi authorities to construct an underground road network in Riyadh, Sabq news portal reported. The initiative follows Tesla's scheduled launch of its electric vehicles in the Saudi market on April 10. Riyadh, one of the fastest-growing cities globally, is projected to see its population grow from 7 million in 2022 to around 9.6 million by 2030. Urban planners see underground transit as a forward-looking solution to manage traffic congestion and support sustainable urban growth. The Boring Company has undertaken similar projects elsewhere, notably in Las Vegas, where it built a tunnel system optimized for electric vehicles. Earlier this year, the firm signed a memorandum of understanding with Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority to construct 17 kilometers of underground roads, aiming to expand the project into a citywide network called the Dubai Loop. Like the Dubai initiative, the proposed Riyadh project would align with broader goals of innovation and sustainability in urban transport, offering high-capacity, electric-vehicle-based mobility in fast-growing metropolitan areas.
Arabian Business
03-04-2025
- Business
- Arabian Business
Dubai Loop to trigger new wave of real estate investment demand, experts say
Developers and market experts are betting on the Dubai Loop project, a major infrastructure initiative to create seamless connectivity between key business and residential hubs in the city, to drive a new wave of demand for well-connected properties, triggering another round of long-term investment cycle in the emirate. The introduction of the high-speed, underground transit network is expected to enhance accessibility across key districts, making previously underutilised locations more attractive for residential investment, they said. Besides higher demand on account of easy accessibility, areas surrounding the Dubai Loop are also projected to benefit from increased rental yields and long-term capital appreciation. Property prices near the Dubai Metro's Red Line increased by close to 27 per cent, while homes within a 10–15-minute radius saw about a 44 per cent surge between 2010 and 2022, and the Dubai Loop is also expected to follow a similar pattern, reinforcing the value of transit-connected properties. 'Infrastructure has always been one of the most powerful drivers of real estate value, and the Dubai Loop is set to be a transformative milestone in the city's development,' Farooq Syed, CEO of Springfield Properties, a leading player in the city's real estate sector, told Arabian Business. 'As connectivity improves, we anticipate a shift in buyer preferences, with more people exploring residential areas that were previously overlooked due to accessibility constraints,' he said. Arash Jalili, CEO and Founder, Unique Properties, said the Dubai Loop project is expected to attract international investors in large numbers as the project is already gaining significant global attention due to the involvement of Elon Musk and The Boring Company. The Loop project is a collaboration between Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and The Boring Company, a subsidiary of Musk's SpaceX. On the sidelines of the World Governments Summit today, we announced a partnership to launch the Dubai Loop project that is set to revolutionise transportation. Under an MoU signed between RTA and The Boring Company, Dubai will explore the development of the 17-kilometre project.… — Hamdan bin Mohammed (@HamdanMohammed) February 13, 2025 Dubai Loop to play central role in the city's next phase of real estate growth Sector experts said the Dubai Loop is expected to play a central role in the city's next phase of real estate growth, shifting buyer behaviours and reinforcing connectivity as a primary driver of value. The emirate's real estate market has seen a surge in demand in response to large-scale infrastructure investments in the past, and the new transport corridor will lead to unlocking demand in previously underutilised locations, they said. The Dubai Loop's initial phase will introduce 11 stations over a 17-kilometer underground network, enabling electric vehicle transport at speeds of up to 160 km/h. It will have an estimated initial capacity of 20,000 passengers per hour, scaling to 100,000 passengers per hour as the network expands. Syed said that with faster and more efficient mobility, real estate values near the Dubai Loop are expected to see a sustained upward trend. 'When commuting time is no longer a barrier, homebuyers will be able to prioritise lifestyle, space, and affordability, without compromising on accessibility,' he said. Industry insiders said the Loop project is set to reshape residential demand patterns by enabling professionals working in Jebel Ali, Dubai South, and Expo City to consider living in Dubai Creek Harbour. With improved transit links, professionals who previously had to stay close to their workplace can now explore locations such as Dubai Creek Harbour, which offers a waterfront lifestyle without sacrificing convenience, they said. 'This project will redefine how people choose where to live,' Syed said, adding that properties in transit-oriented developments are expected to outperform the market as accessibility becomes a leading factor in decision-making. The project complements Dubai's broader infrastructure strategy, which includes the expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport and plans to double the number of metro stations. while ensuring seamless connectivity across the city. 'This is more than just a transport network; it's a catalyst for change that will reshape the way people choose where to live and invest,' Syed said. Project to enhance Dubai's investment proposition on the global stage Sankey Prasad, CMD, Colliers India & Middle East, said that beyond the immediate property valuation impacts, the Dubai Loop enhances the emirate's investment proposition on the global stage. 'By reinforcing Dubai's reputation for forward-thinking urban planning, these visionary projects attract international investors and end-users seeking markets defined by connectivity, convenience, and sustainable growth potential,' Prasad told Arabian Business. 'We expect significant value appreciation in areas directly serviced by the Loop, and surrounding districts will also benefit from the improved accessibility,' he said. Pointing out that historically, a major transport infrastructure in Dubai has driven up to 15 per cent premiums for connected locations, The Colliers India & Middle East chief executive said: 'We do not foresee any exception this time.' He also said the economic multiplier effect of the project will be substantial, extending well beyond real estate into retail, hospitality, and commercial sectors. Seconding Prasad's views, the Unique Properties' Founder said the Loop project will position Dubai as a global leader in innovation and urban planning. The enhanced mobility will drive growth in the property market and will boost property value, which will result in the creation of new investment opportunities in underserved zones, he said. 'Additionally, as the Dubai Loop project gains significant attention due to the involvement of Elon Musk and The Boring Company, it is expected to attract international investors to Dubai. 'This growing interest will drive a surge in global property transactions, further strengthening Dubai's reputation as a prime destination for investment in the real estate market,' Jalili told Arabian Business. Sector experts said for property developers, the project represents the expansion of new frontiers for the high-potential areas that were earlier less connected, while for investors, it serves as proof of Dubai's commitment to strengthening the real estate market with future-ready infrastructure.
Al Bawaba
19-03-2025
- Business
- Al Bawaba
Abu Dhabi to become first AI government by 2027
Published March 19th, 2025 - 03:46 GMT ALBAWABA – The Abu Dhabi Government has signed a major agreement with Microsoft, the American multinational technology company, and Core42, a G42 company that empowers individuals, enterprises, and nations to unlock AI's full potential through its comprehensive enablement capabilities. Also Read Microsoft's new AI model competes with OpenAI Abu Dhabi Government signs AI agreement The Abu Dhabi Government has announced the signing of a new strategic artificial intelligence (AI) deal with Microsoft and G42. The agreement is aimed at focusing on AI technologies and services in the country. The two companies will collaborate to integrate their cloud technologies and AI expertise. The government aims to enhance its digital transformation and artificial intelligence (AI) adoption, with the goal of improving service efficiency by processing over 11 million digital interactions per day. The Abu Dhabi Government has dedicated a total budget of approximately $3.54 billion (Dh13 billion) towards artificial intelligence (AI) development. (Shutterstock) Ahmed Tamim Hisham Al Kuttab, Chairman of the Department of Government Enablement – Abu Dhabi (DGE), stated: 'This partnership is a critical milestone in our digital transformation. By integrating Microsoft's cloud technologies with G42's AI expertise, we are creating a powerful platform that will redefine government services.'According to sources, the Abu Dhabi Government aims to become the world's first artificial intelligence (AI) government by 2027. Additionally, the government has dedicated a total budget of approximately $3.54 billion (Dh13 billion). 'AI will transform how governments operate, and Abu Dhabi is leading the way. This partnership sets a standard for AI adoption in the public sector,' commented Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft. Also Read Musk partners with UAE government to launch Dubai Loop project © 2000 - 2025 Al Bawaba (
Hi Dubai
17-03-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
Can a City Have a Personality? If Dubai Were a Person, Who Would It Be?
We often speak of cities as if they were people. New York is a relentless hustler, never sleeping, always chasing the next big opportunity. Paris is effortlessly romantic, whispering poetry in the language of art and love. Tokyo is disciplined, efficient, and technologically advanced, embodying precision and order. But why do we do this? Cities, much like people, develop distinct personalities over time. Their history, culture, economy, and way of life shape the way we perceive them. Some are warm and welcoming, others are fast-paced and unforgiving. A city's skyline, the energy in its streets, and even the way its residents interact can reflect characteristics we commonly attribute to humans. And then there's Dubai—a city unlike any other. Dubai defies conventional descriptions. It is bold and ambitious, unafraid to dream big and turn those dreams into reality. It is wealthy and extravagant, a place where gold can be bought from vending machines and where the world's tallest building stands as a testament to its limitless aspirations. Yet, it is also deeply rooted in tradition, holding onto its Emirati heritage while embracing a global identity. If Dubai were a person, what kind of person would it be? Would it be a billionaire tech mogul, always pushing the boundaries of innovation? A global influencer, known for luxury and status? Or a visionary leader, blending deep-rooted traditions with forward-thinking progress? In this article, we will explore Dubai's personality by examining its ambition, cultural contrasts, and identity as a futuristic metropolis. Through this lens, we can discover what truly makes Dubai tick and how it would translate into human form. Dubai's Personality Traits: Breaking It Down Dubai's evolution from a modest desert settlement to a global metropolis is a testament to its multifaceted personality. By examining its key characteristics, we can envision the type of person Dubai might embody. Ambitious & Visionary – The Unstoppable Dreamer Dubai's transformation over the past few decades showcases unparalleled ambition. Under the leadership of figures like Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the city has pursued a vision encapsulated by his assertion: "In the race for excellence, there is no finish line." This relentless drive is evident in the nation's economic growth; the UAE's GDP surged from approximately $84.42 billion in 1999 to over $504.17 billion in 2023, reflecting its unwavering ambition. Ultra-Modern & Tech-Savvy – The Futuristic Innovator Embracing cutting-edge technology, Dubai has positioned itself as a leader in smart city initiatives. The Dubai Autonomous Transportation Strategy aims to convert 25% of all transportation to autonomous modes by 2030, incorporating AI-driven urban planning and advanced mobility solutions. Innovations like the proposed 'Dubai Loop' project, a 17-kilometer underground tunnel network designed to transport passengers at speeds up to 160 km/h, further underscore the city's commitment to futuristic infrastructure. Glamorous & Extravagant – The High-Flying Socialite Dubai's reputation for luxury is globally recognized. Landmarks such as the Burj Khalifa—the world's tallest building—and opulent seven-star hotels epitomize its extravagant persona. In 2023, Dubai welcomed approximately 14.36 million international tourists, highlighting its allure as a premier luxury destination. Business-Minded & Opportunistic – The Hustler Strategically located and business-friendly, Dubai has become a magnet for entrepreneurs and multinational corporations. The city's infrastructure and regulatory environment have fostered a thriving business ecosystem, attracting over 30,000 international companies. Cultural Chameleon – The Global Citizen Dubai's population is a mosaic of over 200 nationalities, making it one of the most cosmopolitan cities worldwide. This diversity is reflected in its cultural landscape, where traditional Emirati customs coexist with global influences, creating a unique blend of heritage and modernity. Resilient & Adaptable – The Survivor Facing challenges such as economic downturns and a reliance on oil revenues, Dubai has demonstrated remarkable resilience. Notably, oil now contributes to only about 1% of its GDP, showcasing the city's successful diversification into sectors like tourism, finance, and technology. In essence, if Dubai were personified, it would embody an ambitious visionary, a tech-savvy innovator, a glamorous socialite, a shrewd businessperson, a global citizen, and a resilient survivor—all traits that have propelled the city to its current stature on the world stage. If Dubai Were a Person, Who Would It Be? Envisioning Dubai as a person involves synthesizing its defining characteristics into a singular persona. Drawing parallels with notable figures can provide a clearer understanding of this metaphorical individual. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum: The Ambitious Leader Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Ruler of Dubai and Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, embodies visionary leadership that has been instrumental in Dubai's rapid development. Born in 1949, Sheikh Mohammed ascended to leadership positions, including Minister of Defence in 1971, before becoming the Ruler of Dubai in 2006. His strategic initiatives have transformed Dubai into a global hub for trade, tourism, and innovation, reflecting a blend of tradition and progress. Elon Musk: The Visionary Innovator Elon Musk epitomizes relentless innovation and ambition, qualities that resonate with Dubai's transformative journey. Born in Pretoria, South Africa, in 1971, Musk's ventures—such as SpaceX and Tesla—have consistently pushed technological boundaries. His net worth, which surpassed $400 billion in 2024, underscores his significant impact on global industries. Musk's endeavors in sustainable energy, space exploration, and artificial intelligence mirror Dubai's commitment to futuristic projects and technological advancement. Richard Branson: The Charismatic Entrepreneur Richard Branson, founder of the Virgin Group, exemplifies a business-minded individual with global appeal. His ventures span various industries, from music to space tourism, showcasing a flair for combining business acumen with adventurous pursuits. Branson's charismatic persona and willingness to embrace high-risk, high-reward opportunities align with Dubai's reputation for luxury, innovation, and resilience. A Modern-Day Pharaoh: The Visionary Ruler Historically, pharaohs were seen as god-kings, wielding immense power and overseeing monumental architectural achievements. Similarly, Dubai's leadership has orchestrated the creation of iconic structures like the Burj Khalifa and Palm Jumeirah, symbolizing ambition and strategic foresight. This comparison underscores Dubai's blend of authority, wealth, and visionary urban planning. In synthesizing these comparisons, if Dubai were personified, it would embody the ambition of Elon Musk, the leadership of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the entrepreneurial spirit of Richard Branson, and the grandeur of a modern-day pharaoh. This composite persona reflects a city characterized by relentless innovation, strategic vision, global influence, and monumental achievements. Why This Matters: The Psychology of Identifying with a City Personifying cities—attributing human characteristics to them—is a common psychological mechanism that helps individuals forge emotional connections with places. This practice allows people to relate to cities on a personal level, making urban environments more relatable and engaging. The Psychology Behind Personifying Cities By assigning human traits to cities, individuals can better understand and relate to the complex environments around them. This personification facilitates a deeper emotional bond, enhancing one's sense of belonging and attachment to a place. Such connections can influence behaviors, including the desire to visit, invest in, or reside in a particular city. Dubai's Image as a "Brand" Dubai has meticulously crafted a strong city brand, positioning itself as a beacon of luxury, innovation, and cultural diversity. This branding strategy has been instrumental in transforming Dubai from a modest coastal village into a leading global city, attracting significant foreign direct investment, tourism, and human capital. The city's brand strength is reflected in various global rankings. For instance, Resonance's 2023 World's Best Cities Report ranks Dubai 6th globally, highlighting its prosperity and appeal. Similarly, Brand Finance's City Index 2023 positions Dubai 9th, noting its strong and stable economy and future growth potential. Impact on Tourism and Investment A city's perceived personality significantly influences global perceptions, affecting decisions related to tourism, investment, and residency. Dubai's image as a luxurious and forward-thinking metropolis has made it an attractive destination for international visitors and investors alike. Tourism: In 2024, Dubai welcomed 18.72 million international visitors, surpassing previous records. Notably, 296,000 Australians visited Dubai that year, marking a 6% increase from the previous year. This surge is attributed to Dubai's diverse offerings beyond opulence, such as desert safaris, water sports, and historical sites like the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. Investment: Dubai's robust city branding has also spurred significant foreign direct investment. The property market, for example, has experienced remarkable growth, with residential sales reaching AED 120 billion (approximately $32.7 billion) in the third quarter of 2024. This boom is driven by increased demand from global investors, particularly from Europe and North America, and initiatives like the Golden Visa program that encourage long-term residency. In summary, personifying cities enables individuals to establish emotional connections, influencing perceptions and behaviors. Dubai's strategic branding as a luxurious, innovative, and culturally rich city has significantly enhanced its global appeal, leading to substantial growth in the tourism and investment sectors. If Dubai were a person, it would be an unstoppable mogul—ambitious, ultra-modern, and resilient. A visionary leader who builds the future while honoring the past. A risk-taker who thrives on high-stakes innovation, yet never forgets the cultural roots that shaped its identity. It would be the kind of person who commands attention in any room, not just for their wealth or power but for their ability to redefine possibilities. Dubai is a paradox that works—where tradition meets ambition, where the desert meets the clouds, where resilience meets extravagance. It is a city that never settles, constantly reinventing itself, pushing beyond limits, and setting new global benchmarks. But if cities have personalities, then they must also evoke emotions. Some cities challenge you, some comfort you, and some inspire you. And just like with people, everyone connects differently. So, if cities are like people, where do you feel at home? Also read: The Greenest Desert in the World: How Dubai is Building Nature Where There Was None Dubai is transforming its desert into a green oasis with bold sustainability projects, proving that nature can thrive even in the harshest climates. The Science Behind Dubai's Rainfall Projects: Can We Control the Weather? Discover how Dubai's cloud seeding projects are increasing rainfall and cooling the climate. Explore the science behind weather modification and the future of rain enhancement. A Guide to Living Car-Free in Dubai Dubai is becoming more car-free friendly with efficient public transport, smart mobility, and walkable spaces—explore a new way of getting around! Everything You Should Know About Dubai's Green Spine Initiative Dubai's Green Spine sets a global standard for sustainable urban development, blending cutting-edge technology, green infrastructure, and community living.
