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Thanks to its visionary leadership and strategic initiatives, the UAE continues to experience increased global trade and investment openness. Despite a 2% decline in global investment flows in 2023, the Gulf state saw a remarkable 35% surge in foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows. The UAE rose five places last year to rank 11th globally in its ability to attract FDI , according to the World Investment Report 2024 released by the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, stated: “The UAE is continuing to move in the right direction to strengthen its position as a preferred global destination for foreign investors … a haven for ambitious entrepreneurs and creative thinkers …” UAE’s NextGenFDI Initiative and CEPA Program The UAE provides an excellent investment environment through its world-class infrastructure, flexible legislation, advanced technology, and initiatives that stimulate business across various

UAE Facilitates Fifth Russia-Ukraine Prisoner Exchange The Emirati Foreign Ministry has announced the success of mediation efforts by the UAE in facilitating another prisoner exchange between Russia and Ukraine. This marks the fifth such agreement in 2024, leading to the release of 180 captives, according to a recent statement. The Ministry emphasized that this achievement is a result of the UAE leveraging its unique partnerships. The Ministry expressed gratitude to the governments of Russia and Ukraine for their cooperation in making the exchange possible. The UAE reaffirmed its commitment to finding a peaceful resolution to the prolonged and brutal conflict. It underscored the importance of dialogue, de-escalation, and diplomacy in resolving the fighting and mitigating the humanitarian consequences of the crisis. Mediation Efforts and Previous Exchanges The Russia-Ukraine conflict, which began on February 24, 2022, saw Russian troops entering Ukrainian territory. Since ea

The UAE is a leading contributor of humanitarian aid to Sudan . Recently, the nation allocated 70% of the $100 million pledged earlier this year at the “International Humanitarian Conference for Sudan and Neighbouring Countries.” The Gulf state announced a $70 million allocation to UN agencies and humanitarian organizations to support efforts in alleviating the worsening humanitarian crisis in Sudan. The civil war in Sudan has been ongoing since April 15, 2023. In a statement, the Emirati foreign ministry emphasized that the aid aims to prevent further deterioration of the humanitarian situation and the imminent risk of famine in Sudan. This allocation is part of a comprehensive strategy that includes a full range of assistance. **UAE’s Support for Sudan** HE Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, UAE’s Minister of State for International Cooperation, highlighted that her country established an air bridge at the beginning of the Sudan crisis to provide support and relief supplies to

Located in the heart of Media City, Dubai, the Fanzone by McGettigan’s was launched to provide fans with a stadium-like experience during the 2022 Qatar World Cup. The Fanzone amphitheatre drew over 150,000 enthusiastic football fans from November 20th to December 18th, 2022, and garnered 90 million views on social media. Amphitheatre Features Dubai's largest and most popular fanzone boasts a 200 square meter 4K screen, offering fans an immersive outdoor viewing experience. After each game, the management organizes events, fun activities, and on-screen entertainment with brand partners to engage the public and enhance their enjoyment. The venue also features a variety of food vendors and bars for visitors to relax and enjoy refreshments while watching the games. UEFA EURO 2024 Viewing The fully air-conditioned indoor amphitheatre has a capacity of 5,000, with seating, standing, premium, and VIP options. It's an ideal location for an exceptional viewing experience du

The UAE’s artificial intelligence sector is among the most advanced in the world . The Gulf state appointed the world’s first AI minister in 2017, established the first dedicated AI research university in 2020, and launched a top-rated open-source LLM in 2023. “AI is not a luxury, it is a necessity in this day and age,” said Omar Al Olama, UAE’s Minister of State for AI, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications, at Dubai’s AI Retreat. The event, attended by over 1,000 AI experts, policymakers, and industry leaders, was held at the Museum of the Future under the patronage of HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai. It highlighted the objectives of Dubai’s Universal Blueprint for Artificial Intelligence, aiming to make Dubai a leading city for AI adoption. US tech firms had a notable presence at the 2024 AI retreat, which took place shortly after the appointment of 22 chief AI officers to various government departments, including Dubai Police, Dubai Roads and

The UAE has consistently emphasized the need for a comprehensive strategy to resolve the Israel-Hamas conflict , addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and alleviating Palestinian suffering. On June 12, at the conclusion of the “Call for Action: Urgent Humanitarian Response for Gaza” conference in Jordan, the UAE highlighted the necessity for Palestinians to have a transparent and competent government of independent experts. The ongoing conflict in Gaza, lasting eight months, has resulted in the deaths of around 1,200 Israelis and over 37,200 Palestinians, with tens of thousands injured. Directed by HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, the UAE has prioritized urgent relief and food aid to Gaza, launching the ‘Gallant Knight 3’ operation. This initiative has delivered 33,000 tons of supplies, including food, shelter, and medical aid, using 319 planes, seven cargo ships, and over 1,240 trucks. Additionally, the UAE has established field and floating hospitals, providing medical care to over