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Industry News
Source: Emirates 24|7

Dubai Real GDP Reaches AED 473 Billion in First Half of 2026

Dubai's real gross domestic product reached approximately AED 473 billion in the first half of 2026, according to data from the Dubai Data and Statistics Establishment at Digital Dubai. Nominal GDP at current prices grew 0.2 percent to AED 505 billion, despite a 2.3 percent contraction in real GDP compared to H1 2025. Growth was anchored by the healthcare, financial, and construction sectors, offsetting contractions in wholesale and retail trade as well as transport.

Policy & Legal Updates
Source: Fortune

UAE 10-Year Golden Visa Broadens Long-Term Residency Beyond Wealthy Investors

The UAE's 10-year Golden Visa framework extends beyond high-net-worth investors to incorporate specialized professionals, including nurses, teachers, and e-sports competitors, according to Fortune. The program enables qualifying talent to secure self-sponsored residency and family sponsorship without requiring a local employer sponsor. This approach aligns with the UAE's broader strategy to attract and retain critical skills across education, healthcare, and digital sectors.

China–UAE News
Source: Macau Business

Abu Dhabi Health Department Concludes Inaugural Life Sciences Mission to China

The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi has concluded its inaugural health and life sciences mission to China, conducting 32 meetings and site visits across Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen. Discussions focused on artificial intelligence, precision oncology, next-generation biologics, and clinical research partnerships. Follow-up engagements are scheduled for the Abu Dhabi Future Health Summit 2026, with 24 Chinese organisations invited.

Policy & Legal Updates
Source: Gulf News

UAE Workplace Privacy Laws Protect Employee Mental Health and Medical Records

Legal and compliance specialists clarified that employee medical history, psychiatric evaluations, and therapy records remain confidential under UAE privacy provisions. Employers cannot legally demand disclosure of these records even when addressing declining workplace performance. For sick leave under UAE Labour Law, workers are only required to provide official medical certificates without disclosing specific diagnoses.

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