News

Policy & Legal Updates

US Reports Progress on Iran Isolation as UAE Restricts Flights and Banking Links

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced that global diplomatic pressure has yielded restrictions on Iranian aviation and banking networks. The UAE has suspended all flights by Iranian airlines and blocked transactions via Bank Melli branches, while smaller Iranian carriers continue operating routes to China. Turkey and Oman have also halted flights from Mahan Air, and Turkey revoked Bank Mellat's operating license.

China–UAE News

UAE’s XRG Considers Buying Stake in LNG Canada from PetroChina

Abu Dhabi's state-owned XRG is exploring the acquisition of an equity stake in the Shell-led LNG Canada project in British Columbia. The company has held talks with existing partners, including PetroChina, to purchase a portion of their holdings. LNG Canada has an annual capacity of 14 million metric tons and primarily supplies Asian markets, including China.

Industry News

Dubai Centre for Family Businesses Launches Board Directorship Certification Programme

The Dubai Centre for Family Businesses, operating under Dubai Chambers, has launched 'The World of Directorship – Certificate in Board Directorship' programme. Developed in partnership with the GCC Board Directors Institute, the training is being delivered to 27 participants to advance corporate governance practices.

Industry News

UAE Plans 45 Percent Cut in Power and Water Emissions by 2035

The UAE plans to reduce carbon emissions from electricity and water production by more than 45% by 2035, according to long-term energy system planning reported by Emirates News Agency (WAM). Emissions are projected to fall from approximately 42 million tonnes in 2019 to 23 million tonnes, despite an expected 70% increase in power demand between 2026 and 2033. The strategy relies on expanding Abu Dhabi's solar capacity to over 35 GW, deploying 15 GW of battery storage, and shifting over 95% of water output to reverse osmosis.