Industry News

Bain Survey Finds China Prioritises Automotive Technology While West Focuses on Price

A global survey of more than 12,000 car buyers by Bain & Company reveals that vehicle price remains the top purchasing consideration in the US and Europe, cited by 68% and 62% of consumers respectively. In contrast, Chinese buyers prioritize technology and vehicle features at 58%, ranking tech ahead of pricing. The study also highlights declining brand loyalty in Western markets and the growing influence of AI and autonomous driving capabilities.

Policy & Legal Updates

Abu Dhabi Customs Wins Two Honours at Asian Innovation Excellence Awards 2026

The General Administration of Abu Dhabi Customs received two awards at the Asian Innovation Excellence Awards 2026 for its Digital Trade Corridor and Tawqiei platform. The Digital Trade Corridor leverages blockchain and artificial intelligence to enable pre-arrival processing and faster clearance under a 'Submit Once, Use Many' model. The Tawqiei system, introduced in 2025, digitised document signing and administrative approvals across departments.

Industry News

UAE Renewable Energy Capacity Expands 63-Fold to 8.2 Gigawatts Over Decade

The UAE's renewable energy capacity increased over 63-fold from 129 MW in 2015 to more than 8.2 GW in 2025, according to Minister of Energy and Infrastructure Suhail Al Mazrouei. Clean energy generated 32.4 percent of the nation's electricity in 2025, with a target of reaching 35 percent by 2031. The country plans up to AED 200 billion in clean energy investments through 2030.

Policy & Legal Updates

UAE pension system upgraded to B grade in 2026 Global Pension Index

The UAE's retirement-income system was upgraded from a C+ to a B grade in the 2026 Global Pension Index published by Marsh and CFA Institute. The nation's score increased to 70.0 from 64.9 in 2025, earning top A grades in both adequacy and integrity. The General Pension and Social Security Authority linked the performance to legislative reforms, including Federal Decree-Law No. 57 of 2023.