Cape Town, South Africa – June 20, 2026

Desert Technologies, the Saudi-based global leader in smart solar energy and energy storage solutions, and the first Saudi company to manufacture and export photovoltaic (PV) solar panels, participated in the Africa Energy Forum 2026 (AEF), the continent’s premier gathering of strategic investors and energy stakeholders. The event was hosted at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) in South Africa from June 16 to 19.

Under the forum’s theme, “Building Africa’s Industrial Future,” Desert Technologies showcased at its exhibition booth a comprehensive portfolio of its latest integrated solutions and technologies, combining high-performance solar modules with advanced energy storage systems. The company also highlighted its cutting-edge AI-powered solutions designed to enhance the efficiency and reliability of solar power systems through accurate energy generation forecasting, real-time plant performance analytics, predictive maintenance for early fault detection, consumption and cost forecasting, and intelligent energy and grid management.

These innovations are aimed at maximizing operational efficiency and sustainability while increasing the economic value of renewable energy projects across Africa.

Desert Technologies’ participation extended beyond the exhibition floor to the forum’s strategic dialogue sessions. On the opening day, Khalid Al-Shuwaier, Chief Executive Officer of the Energy Projects Sector, joined an exclusive leadership roundtable that brought together senior public and private sector leaders from across Africa to discuss the strategic role of clean energy technologies in accelerating the continent’s industrialization agenda and achieving sustainable development goals.

Haitham Abdo, General Manager of Development at Desert Technologies, participated in a high-level panel discussion alongside ministers, senior government officials, and renewable energy industry CEOs. The session focused on the future of artificial intelligence and renewable energy and their role in supporting economic transformation and sustainable development.

Commenting on the occasion, Khalid Al-Shuwaier stated:

“Desert Technologies’ sponsorship and participation in Africa Energy Forum 2026 reflect our long-standing track record of achievements across the African continent. We are proud to support one of Africa’s most influential gatherings of investors and decision-makers in the energy sector and appreciate the forum organizers’ efforts in bringing together world-class leaders and experts under one roof.”

He added:

“Our participation underscores our commitment to contributing to a more sustainable energy future in Africa and strengthening our position as a strategic partner in energy and sustainable development projects, while supporting the growth of Saudi non-oil exports in line with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.”

Al-Shuwaier further explained that Desert Technologies showcased a range of integrated renewable energy solutions during the forum, including the SAHARA Solar Container, an all-in-one solar and energy storage solution designed for remote, off-grid, and hybrid applications; Solar Kit, a plug-and-play solar power solution engineered for easy installation and reliable clean energy generation; Solar Pump Inverter, an intelligent solar-powered water pumping solution delivering high efficiency and operational reliability; and high-efficiency Solar Panels designed to maximize performance and durability.

The company also highlighted its expertise in developing and implementing mini-grid projects aimed at providing clean and reliable electricity to remote communities beyond the reach of conventional power networks. These solutions are particularly significant in addressing the needs of more than 600 million people across Africa who still lack access to electricity, demonstrating the company’s ability to deliver innovative and scalable technologies tailored to African markets and to support the continent’s transition toward clean energy.

For his part, Eng. Haitham Abdo emphasized that:

“Africa Energy Forum 2026 serves as a strategic platform that brings together energy, critical minerals, infrastructure, finance, and technology, helping transform ambitions into executable projects and create sustainable economic value.”

He added:

“The future of energy in Africa depends on building smart and resilient infrastructure powered by artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things. The objective is no longer simply to generate megawatts, but to develop intelligent and flexible energy systems capable of meeting growing demand while supporting industrialization and digital transformation.”

Abdo further noted that Desert Technologies held a series of meetings during the forum with renewable energy project developers, financial institutions, and banks operating across Africa to explore collaboration opportunities and future projects.

“These discussions reflect our commitment to delivering innovative and scalable energy solutions and reinforcing our role as a strategic partner in advancing sustainable development and achieving energy independence across the African continent,” he concluded.

H.E. Sana bint Mohammed Suhail, Minister of Family, affirmed that fathers constitute a fundamental pillar of the family, given their pivotal role in nurturing and guiding, instilling values, and fostering self-confidence in their children. She noted that a father’s positive presence in the life of his family is directly reflected in family stability, social cohesion, and the upbringing of responsible generations capable of shaping the future. 

Marking Father’s Day, H.E. stated: “This occasion brings to mind an enduring national legacy exemplified by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and the Founding Fathers, who set an exceptional example of fatherhood, leadership, and giving. Sheikh Zayed was a wise father to his children and to the people of the UAE, and through his humanitarian approach, he instilled values that the wise leadership continues to uphold across society, founded on compassion, solidarity, care for people, and the empowerment of families.”

H.E. further explained that the UAE has established an integrated framework to strengthen the role of fathers through awareness programmes, community initiatives, and support services that help parents navigate contemporary educational and social challenges while encouraging their active engagement in their children’s lives. She added that the “Year of Family” further underscores this national commitment by promoting stronger family bonds and reinforcing relationships among family members, thereby affirming the father’s role as an essential partner in raising children and shaping their future.

The Minister of Family noted that honouring fathers is, in essence, a tribute to dedication, responsibility, and exemplary leadership. It is also a salute of every father who has contributed to building a stable family, instilled in his children love for their homeland and pride in its values, and devoted himself to creating a brighter and more prosperous future for generations to come.

Photos: H.E. Sana bint Mohammed Suhail, Minister of Family

Mohammed Al Yamani: A More Mature Market is Creating New Pathways for Middle-Income Investors to Build Long-Term Wealth Through Strategic Property Ownership

Mohammed Al Yamani, Chief Executive Officer of DXR Real Estate, stated that the UAE real estate market is entering a new phase of maturity and stability in 2026, supported by continued inflows of local and international investment, a diverse range of residential offerings, and sustained confidence in the country’s property sector across all emirates.

Al Yamani explained that today’s real estate landscape is no longer driven solely by rapid price appreciation. Instead, it is increasingly shaped by project quality, location, developer reputation, and flexible payment plans. This shift, he noted, creates greater opportunities for investors—particularly middle-income buyers—to make informed decisions that generate sustainable long-term returns.

“The UAE real estate market remains one of the most attractive investment destinations globally. However, success in 2026 will not belong to the fastest buyer, but to the investor who can accurately assess market fundamentals and select assets capable of delivering genuine long-term value,” Al Yamani said.

He added that market performance during the first five months of the year reflects continued strength in both demand and liquidity, with off-plan developments and flexible payment structures remaining key drivers of investor interest. This trend further reinforces the attractiveness of real estate ownership as a long-term wealth-building strategy compared to many traditional investment vehicles.

According to Al Yamani, middle-income investors now have greater access to the market than ever before through emerging residential communities, projects offering extended payment plans, and ready properties with clear rental income potential in well-connected locations.

He further noted that the transition from renting to homeownership is becoming increasingly common among UAE residents, driven by economic stability, expanded long-term residency options, and ongoing growth in sectors such as technology, tourism, trade, and professional services.

Al Yamani emphasized that strong real estate activity is no longer limited to Dubai. Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Ajman are also witnessing robust market performance, offering investors a broader spectrum of opportunities that cater to different budgets and investment objectives.

He stressed that the current market environment requires greater investment discipline, highlighting that selecting the right location, maintaining a balanced payment structure, and holding assets over an appropriate investment horizon remain the key foundations for achieving sustainable returns.

Concluding his remarks, Al Yamani said:

“The real opportunity today is not simply buying property—it is buying the right property that aligns with your financial capacity, investment goals, and long-term strategy. With the UAE’s strong economic fundamentals, continued investment inflows, and world-class infrastructure development, the real estate sector will continue to offer compelling opportunities for both investors and end-users alike.”

About DXR Real Estate:

DXR Real Estate operates within the UAE property sector, providing real estate solutions and advisory services driven by market intelligence and data analysis. The company is committed to helping buyers and investors make informed, sustainable, and value-driven property decisions.

Sharjah, June, 2026: The Emirates Publishers Association EPA is leveraging the Beijing International Book Fair (BIBF) 2026 as a new platform to further strengthen the global presence of Emirati publishing, benefiting from the momentum generated by the United Arab Emirates’ participation as the Guest of Honour at this year’s edition of the fair. Through this participation, the Association continues to build bridges of knowledge-based cooperation with China’s publishing sector while reinforcing the presence of Emirati publishers in one of the world’s most dynamic and influential cultural markets.

From 17 to 21 June, the Association is maintaining a distinguished presence through its dedicated stand while also participating through a special section within the UAE Pavilion, “Al Bait Al Emirati,” organised by the UAE Embassy in the People’s Republic of China in cooperation with the Ministry of Culture. Through this participation, the Association showcases the UAE’s advanced publishing industry and a strategic vision aimed at building sustainable partnerships with Chinese publishers and cultural institutions, supporting the wider reach of Emirati and Arab content in international markets.

The Association’s delegation includes representatives from Ghaf Publishing, Ajyaal Publishing House, Kids Talents Book Trading, Thaqafa Publishing, and the Sharjah Archaeology Authority. This diverse representation adds a distinctive dimension to the UAE’s participation, reflecting the richness of the country’s cultural and creative landscape, the maturity of its publishing sector, and its ability to engage with international cultural markets as well as contribute actively to the global professional publishing community.

The participation agenda includes a professional networking event bringing together Emirati and Chinese publishers through direct meetings dedicated to exploring cooperation opportunities, establishing partnerships, and discussing publishing rights. The event aims to foster long-term professional relationships and strengthen the presence of Emirati and Arab content within the Chinese market.

The Association will also organise a specialised panel discussion titled “Reading Trends in the Arab World and the People’s Republic of China: What Publishers Need to Know?”. Moderated by Emirati author Jamal Al Shehhi, Founder of Kuttab Publishing, the session will feature Amira BuKadra, President of the Emirates Publishers Association Board and Founder of Ghaf Publishing, and Dr. Abdullah Alsharhan, Vice President of EPA and Founder of Ajyaal Publishing House. The discussion will examine developments in reading trends across both regions, highlighting reader preferences, content consumption patterns, and market dynamics, with the aim of providing practical insights t support publishers seeking to expand into new markets and build sustainable partnerships.

Commenting on the participation, H.E. Rashid Al Kous, Executive Director of the Emirates Publishers Association, said: “Our participation in the Beijing International Book Fair holds exceptional significance as the UAE is this year’s Guest of Honour. This occasion provides a prestigious platform to showcase the UAE’s cultural achievements and strengthen the presence of Emirati publishers within one of the world’s largest knowledge ecosystems.”

H.E. Al Kous also expressed his sincere appreciation and gratitude to the UAE Embassy in Beijing and the Ministry of Culture for their generous support in allocating a dedicated space for the Association and Emirati publishers within Al Bait Al Emirati, noting that this support reflects the UAE’s commitment to empowering the publishing sector and strengthening the presence of Emirati culture on the global stage.

He added: “This participation aligns with the UAE’s vision of positioning culture and knowledge as bridges for communication between people and as drivers of sustainable development. We look forward to building long-term professional relationships with our partners in China that will enhance knowledge exchange, open new markets for publishers and creators in both countries and further consolidate the UAE’s position as a regional and global hub for publishing and knowledge.”

This participation gains added significance through the UAE’s selection as Guest of Honour at the fair, reflecting the country’s growing stature on the global cultural map and underscoring the success of its efforts to build bridges of civilisational dialogue and cultural exchange with communities around the world., Through such initiatives, the Emirates Publishers Association continues to empower Emirati publishers and expand their presence in promising international markets.

The sponsorship fortifies du’s indoor 5G leadership, enabling world class connectivity for participants in Dubai Mallathon across the city’s leading mall destinations.

Dubai, UAE,June 2026: du, a leading UAE telecom and digital services provider, has announced its sponsorship of the second edition of Dubai Mallathon, a city-wide community sports initiative launched under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai.

Running from 15 June to 15 September 2026 across six of Dubai’s leading malls inlcuding Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, Mirdif City Centre, Dubai Festival City Mall, Deira City Centre and Dubai Hills Mall. The initiative encourages residents and visitors to adopt active lifestyles during the summer months by providing safe, air-conditioned environments for walking, running and other fitness activities.

As a sponsor, du will support participants with seamless, high-speed connectivity enabled by its advanced indoor 5G+ network infrastructure. Across all participating malls, users will be able to access fitness applications, share experiences on social media, stay connected with family and friends, and use digital services throughout the event.

Saleem Alblooshi, Chief Technology Officer, said: “Dubai Mallathon is a powerful example of how community-focused initiatives can encourage healthier lifestyles. We are proud to support an initiative that aligns with Dubai’s vision of enhancing quality of life and wellbeing for everyone. Through our advanced indoor 5G+ deployment, we will ensure seamless, high-performance connectivity that supports real-time engagement across all participating venues. Our sponsorship reflects our commitment to supporting initiatives that bring people together through shared experiences.”

The sponsorship highlights the capabilities of du’s indoor network which continues to set industry benchmarks for network performance through next-generation infrastructure to meet the growing connectivity demands of communities, businesses and public initiatives. du enables the precise, flexible deployment of services, enhancing delivery and operational efficiency through a next-generation architecture setting a strong foundation for future technologies.

Dubai Mallathon forms part of the Dubai Quality of Life Strategy 2033 and supports the objectives of the UAE’s Year of the Family 2026. The initiative features dedicated walking and running tracks, community programmes, fitness activities, weekend races and inclusive experiences for women, senior citizens and People of Determination.

By supporting Dubai Mallathon, du reinforces its commitment to enabling meaningful experiences through reliable connectivity, while contributing to initiatives that strengthen community wellbeing and support Dubai’s vision for a healthier and more active society.

About du:

du adds life to life with a comprehensive portfolio of mobile, fixed, broadband, entertainment services, and fintech solutions. Through a digital-first approach powered by ultra-reliable fiber and 5G technology, du delivers bespoke solutions leveraging cloud computing, AI-driven analytics, advanced cybersecurity, and IoT integration. As a trusted digital telco enabler spearheading the UAE’s digital transformation, we collaborate with a dynamic partner ecosystem to propel industries and society toward operational excellence, shaping a more connected and digitally advanced future across the region.

Supported by the UAE Ministry of Defence and the Tawazun Council for Defence Enablement, and organised by ADNEC Group, a Modon company, the UAE Pavilion served as a unified national platform showcasing the capabilities of leading UAE defence entities, including EDGE Group, Resource Industries, and Emirates Cable Corporation Interconnect.

Across the five-day event, the pavilion welcomed over 12,500 visitors and hosted over 480 meetings between UAE national defence entities, international defence companies, military delegations, exhibition organisers, and global industry stakeholders. The UAE Pavilion attracted high-level visits from official delegations, senior military leaders, industry CEOs, and international partners throughout the week.

EDGE Group signed nine agreements and MoUs with leading European companies during Eurosatory 2026, reinforcing its commitment to expanding international partnerships and strengthening the UAE’s defence industry presence in global value chains.

ADNEC Group also used its participation at Eurosatory 2026 to promote the UAE’s leading defence and security exhibitions, including the 2027 editions of the International Defence Exhibition and Conference (IDEX) and the Naval Defence and Maritime Security Exhibition (NAVDEX), which held over 170 over five days of the event.

Additionally, the Group held several meetings for the future editions of Unmanned Systems Exhibition (UMEX), Simulation and Training Exhibition (SimTEX) and the International Exhibition for National Security and Resilience (ISNR) that gained further interest from international participants.

The UAE Pavilion’s participation at Eurosatory 2026 underscored the UAE’s commitment to advancing global defence partnerships, supporting innovation, and strengthening industrial cooperation across air, land, sea, cyber, space, unmanned systems, and national security domains. It provided UAE national companies with direct access to global buyers, investors, decision-makers, and industry leaders, further supporting the UAE’s position within global defence value chains.

Eurosatory 2026, one of the world’s leading international defence and security exhibitions, brought together the global defence and security ecosystem in Paris, including armed forces, security forces, industries, institutions, experts, and innovators. Since 1967, Eurosatory has built its reputation as a benchmark global tradeshow for defence and security, bringing together key players from across the international ecosystem.

The UAE Pavilion will continue its global roadshow with participation in the El Alamein International Airshow from 8 to 10 September, followed by the Special Operations Forces Exhibition and Conference (SOFEX) in Jordan, the Marrakech Air Show in Morocco, the China International Aviation & Aerospace Exhibition, the Bahrain International Airshow (BIAS), and the Indo Aerospace Expo & Forum.

As the city gears up for the highly anticipated Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) 2026, ECOS Dubai Hotel at Al Furjan has officially announced the launch of its value-packed summer campaign. Designed specifically for families, couples, and UAE residents seeking a smart, comfortable, and affordable getaway, the hotel is introducing the “ECOS Summer Escape 2026 with Half Board” package alongside an exclusive citywide DSS direct-booking promotion.

Perfectly positioned in the vibrant Al Furjan district, ECOS Dubai Hotel serves as a highly convenient hub for guests looking to experience Dubai’s world-class summer attractions, malls, and indoor entertainment venues. The new seasonal campaign aims to deliver exceptional value without compromising on the modern comfort and seamless convenience today’s travellers expect.

Commenting on the launch, Rafat Gotta, Cluster General Manager of ECOS Dubai Hotel at Al Furjan and Coral Dubai Deira Hotel, said: “Dubai Summer Surprises is always a hallmark season for tourism in the emirate, and for 2026, we wanted to make the city’s vibrant energy completely accessible to everyone. Our ‘Summer Escape’ package is designed to strip away the stress of seasonal travel planning by combining premium dining perks, flexible timings, and contemporary lifestyle spaces into one highly transparent, budget-friendly rate. At ECOS, we believe that delivering top-tier convenience and exceptional value should go hand in hand, giving families and residents the perfect oasis to unwind while they explore the very best of Dubai’s summer initiatives.”

A Smart Choice for a Seamless Summer Staycation

Starting at just AED 299 per night (plus a AED 10 Tourism Fee), the ECOS Summer Escape 2026 with Half Board package is tailored to take the stress out of summer planning by bundling dining and stay perks into one transparent rate.

The comprehensive package includes:

• Family-Friendly Accommodation: Overnight stay for two adults and one child.
• All-Inclusive Value: Daily breakfast and a satisfying Half Board dining experience for the entire family (two adults and one child).
• Free Stay for Little Ones: Children under the age of 6 stay completely free when sharing existing bedding.
• Flexible Timings: Early check-in starting from 10:00 AM and an ultra-convenient late check-out until 4:00 PM (both subject to availability), allowing guests to maximize their relaxation time.
• Leisure Access: Complimentary use of the hotel’s rooftop swimming pool and fully equipped fitness centre.

To redeem this specific offer, guests can use the dedicated rate code: PROSHB.

Celebrate Dubai Summer Surprises with Up to 30% Off

In alignment with Dubai’s citywide summer tourism initiatives, ECOS Dubai Hotel at Al Furjan is also rolling out an exclusive Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) Offer. Guests looking for ultimate flexibility can enjoy up to 30% off the Best Available Rate.

To unlock this steep discount, travellers are encouraged to skip third-party booking platforms and lock in their reservations directly through the hotel’s official website. This direct-to-property approach ensures guests receive the lowest guaranteed rates, flexible cancellation policies, and immediate confirmation while actively supporting the city’s vibrant seasonal shopping and tourism campaign.

Whether planning a weekend couples’ retreat, a family holiday to explore the wonders of DSS, or a relaxing staycation close to home, ECOS Dubai Hotel at Al Furjan provides a contemporary, wallet-friendly oasis in the heart of new Dubai.

Booking & Reservations Information

The ECOS Summer Escape 2026 package and the 30% off DSS direct-booking discount are now live and available for a limited time during the summer season.

To Book: Reservations must be made directly online via the official hotel booking portal: https://www.hmhhotelgroup.com/ecos-hotels-dubai-alfurjan

Half Board Rate Code: PROSHB

Abu Dhabi, UAE –June 2026: The relationship between Georgia and the United Arab Emirates has entered its strongest and most dynamic phase to date, driven by shared ambitions for innovation, economic growth, education, and long-term cooperation, according to H.E. Mr. George Janjgava, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Georgia to the UAE.

Speaking to “Gulftourism.news“ in Abu Dhabi and reflecting on his diplomatic journey and current mandate in the Emirates, Ambassador Janjgava highlighted the importance of trust, dialogue, and personal connections in shaping successful international partnerships. Having previously served as Ambassador to Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Egypt, alongside multiple non-resident ambassadorial appointments across the region, he brings decades of diplomatic experience to a role he describes as both an honor and an opportunity.

“The UAE is a country with a very clear vision for the future, and I see many areas where Georgia and the UAE can work together in a practical and meaningful way,” said Ambassador Janjgava. “Diplomacy is not only about official meetings or documents. It is about listening carefully, understanding different perspectives, strengthening personal ties, and building confidence step by step.”

At the heart of his mission is strengthening the already strong relationship between the two countries while delivering tangible outcomes that benefit both nations. Political cooperation remains a key pillar of the partnership, underpinned by frequent high-level engagements and a shared commitment to advancing strategic interests.

“The Governments of Georgia and the UAE enjoy deep political relations and a strategic partnership,” he noted. “These ties are reflected in the regular exchange of official visits and the strong mutual support demonstrated by both sides.”

Relations between the two nations continue to gain momentum through sustained engagement at the highest levels. Georgia’s Prime Minister has maintained a strong presence in the UAE, participating in major international platforms such as Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week and the World Governments Summit earlier this year. Meanwhile, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, paid a landmark visit to Georgia in September 2025, further reinforcing bilateral cooperation.

Alongside political dialogue, economic cooperation has emerged as one of the most significant drivers of the partnership. Ambassador Janjgava underscored Georgia’s strategic position as a gateway between Europe and Asia, offering investors access to a business-friendly environment and rapidly growing sectors including tourism, logistics, renewable energy, infrastructure, hospitality, agriculture, real estate, and technology.

Over the past two decades, UAE investments in Georgia have reached approximately USD 1.5 billion, supported by major investors including Majid Al Futtaim Holding LLC, Dhabi Group, Rakeen Uptown Development LLC, Ras Al Khaimah Investment Authority, Abu Dhabi Ports Group. In 2025 UAE Developer  “Eagle Hills” has launched a major 6.6 billion dollar mega real estate project in Georgia, and it’s considered one of the largest foreign investments in the country’s history.

Today, more than 200 UAE-capital companies are registered in Georgia, while around 2,000 Georgians live and work in the UAE, contributing to business and entrepreneurship across various sectors.

The Ambassador also highlighted the transformative impact of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), signed in October 2023, which continues to unlock new avenues for trade and investment. “Strong partnerships are built on trust, consistency, and a willingness to explore new possibilities together,” he said. “When countries create the right environment for cooperation, businesses and investors can transform ideas into lasting success.”

Tourism has similarly become one of the fastest-growing sectors of cooperation. Last year alone, nearly half a million visitors travelled to Georgia from the UAE, including expatriate residents, while approximately 15,000 were UAE nationals. In return, around 35,000 visitors from Georgia travelled to the UAE in 2025. Supporting this growth, direct connectivity between the two countries has expanded significantly, with airlines operating approximately 50 direct flights per week on a regular basis and up to 65 weekly flights during peak travel periods.

Education and innovation represent another promising frontier for bilateral engagement. According to Ambassador Janjgava, both countries share a common understanding of education as a strategic investment in future development, making collaboration in this field particularly natural.

“Georgia and the UAE both understand that education today cannot remain isolated from technology, innovation, and the needs of the modern economy,” he said. “This common understanding helps institutions speak the same language when discussing cooperation.”

The educational partnership is already producing tangible results. Currently, up to 10 Georgian students are pursuing higher education at leading UAE institutions, including Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence and New York University Abu Dhabi, through fully funded scholarships. During his visit to Georgia, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan further announced 10 additional scholarship opportunities for Georgian students at Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence.

At the same time, UAE nationals continue to pursue studies in Georgia, while thousands of UAE-based expatriates choose Georgian universities for higher education, further strengthening academic and cultural connections between the two nations.

Looking ahead, Ambassador Janjgava believes that the future of Georgia-UAE relations will increasingly be shaped by people-to-people engagement, innovation, entrepreneurship, and cultural exchange.

“My personal message, especially to young people, is that diplomacy is ultimately about people,” he said. “It is about curiosity, respect, patience, and the ability to understand another country beyond stereotypes or headlines.”

He encouraged aspiring diplomats and young professionals to embrace lifelong learning, adaptability, and trust-building as essential qualities for success in an interconnected world. “Knowledge is important, but character is equally important,” he added. “One must be able to listen, learn, adapt, and build trust carefully over time.”

As Georgia and the UAE continue to deepen their strategic partnership, Ambassador Janjgava emphasized that the relationship extends far beyond official agreements and government initiatives.

“I hope readers in both countries remember that Georgia-UAE relations are not only about official visits or agreements,” he concluded. “They are also about students, tourists, entrepreneurs, cultural exchanges, and people who discover each other’s countries with genuine interest.”

With growing cooperation across diplomacy, trade, tourism, education, and innovation, the Georgia-UAE partnership stands as a model of how shared vision, mutual respect, and strong people-to-people ties can create lasting opportunities for future generations.

UAE, June 2026 — Huawei Consumer Business Group CBG has expanded the HUAWEI WATCH Ultimate 2 lineup in the UAE with the introduction of a stylish new Green colour option. Joining the existing colour options, the new addition offers consumers another way to express their personal style while enjoying the smartwatch’s groundbreaking miniaturised sonar-based underwater communication technology and premium exploration-focused design.

With Emirati participation in the private sector reaching record levels, the next priority is turning national talent access into interviews, readiness, hiring, and enterprise opportunities

• More than 176,000 Emiratis employed through Nafis since launch, according to WAM
  • 152,000 active Nafis beneficiaries working across 32,000 establishments by end-March 2026
  • UAE private-sector workforce grew by 12.4% in 2025, according to MoHRE
  • Private-sector establishments increased by 7.8% in 2025
  • Labour-market compliance levels rose by 34% compared to 2024
  • Tawdheef × Zaheb has supported more than 30,000 Emiratis since launch and will return in 2026 with a more outcome-focused format

Abu Dhabi, UAE –June 2026 : The UAE’s Emiratisation journey is entering a more practical phase. After years of building awareness, incentives, and private-sector participation, the conversation is moving towards a more direct question: how can national talent be connected to the right employers, the right skills, and the right opportunities faster?

Official figures underline the scale of this shift. According to the Emirates News Agency, WAM, the Nafis programme has contributed to the employment of more than 176,000 Emiratis since its launch, with 152,000 active beneficiaries working across 32,000 establishments as of the end of March 2026. The extension of Nafis until 2040 further reflects the UAE’s long-term commitment to expanding meaningful private-sector opportunities for national talent.

The wider labour market is also expanding at pace. According to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, the UAE private-sector workforce recorded 12.4% growth in 2025, while the number of establishments increased by 7.8%. MoHRE also reported a 34% rise in labour-market compliance levels compared to 2024, pointing to a market that is not only growing, but also becoming more structured and more focused on sustainable outcomes.

Against this backdrop, Tawdheef × Zaheb 2026 will return from 17 to 19 November with a sharper role: helping turn Emiratisation momentum into practical hiring results. As the platform marks 20 years of contribution to the UAE’s national workforce, the upcoming edition will focus on direct employer access, serious interviews, practical candidate preparation, and wider routes into enterprise.

For Emirati jobseekers, this shift is deeply personal. It can start with a CV handed to the right recruiter, a short interview that opens a door, or a moment of guidance that helps a young candidate understand where they fit in a changing labour market. For employers, the challenge is equally practical: finding national talent that is ready, motivated, and aligned with real business needs.

Fadi Harb, Event Director at Informa Middle East, said: “The UAE has made major progress in bringing Emirati talent into the private sector. The next priority is making sure this progress continues to translate into meaningful careers, stronger employer pipelines, and better-prepared candidates. This is where platforms like Tawdheef × Zaheb can play a very practical role.”

He added: “Employers today are not looking only for visibility or CV collection. They want serious conversations that can lead to interviews, assessments, and hiring decisions. Emirati candidates also want more than access; they want guidance, clarity, and a better understanding of where opportunities are opening. The 2026 edition is being built around this reality.”

The need for more practical career platforms is also being shaped by the expansion of Emiratisation requirements. According to MoHRE, private-sector companies with 50 or more employees are required to achieve 2% annual growth in Emirati employees in skilled positions. Selected companies with 20 to 49 employees across specific high-growth sectors are also required to hire and retain UAE nationals, widening the number of employers directly involved in the national talent agenda.

Tawdheef × Zaheb’s own performance reflects this wider shift towards outcome-led engagement. The 2025 edition welcomed more than 10,000 Emirati jobseekers and 67 participating organisations. During the event, 44% of exhibitors reported hiring candidates directly onsite, while 37.5% collected more than 500 CVs over three days. All surveyed participating organisations confirmed their intention to return in 2026.

Since its launch, Tawdheef × Zaheb has supported more than 30,000 UAE nationals in accessing employment opportunities or advancing their professional journeys. The 2026 edition will build on this long-standing role while responding to a labour market that is becoming more competitive, more skills-focused, and more demanding for both employers and candidates.

A key feature of the upcoming edition will be a dedicated Entrepreneurship Zone, introduced at a time when enterprise creation is becoming a stronger part of the UAE’s national economic conversation. According to Dubai Media Office, the UAE’s StartupEmirates.ae platform aims to attract 10,000 entrepreneurs and create 30,000 new jobs by 2030, offering access to shared workspaces, business networking events, mentorship, and other support.

This makes entrepreneurship an increasingly relevant route for young UAE nationals, not only as an alternative to employment, but as part of a broader future-of-work landscape. The Entrepreneurship Zone will connect Emirati visitors with startups, SMEs, founders, innovation platforms, and enterprise support entities, giving them practical exposure to business-building, startup careers, and private-sector growth opportunities.

“The future of Emirati talent cannot be viewed through one path only,” Harb said. “Some candidates are looking for their first job. Some are exploring the private sector after studying or working elsewhere. Some are returning to the workforce. Others are interested in startups or building something of their own. Tawdheef × Zaheb 2026 reflects this wider reality by giving national talent more than one route into opportunity.”

Employer feedback from previous editions continues to underline the platform’s recruitment value. Rashid Doleh, Co-Founder of AI-based Emiratisation platform Dawlati, said: “We collected over 500 CVs in just three days, conducted structured interviews, and converted direct engagement into actual hires. The calibre of Emirati candidates and the focused format make Tawdheef × Zaheb a genuine hiring channel aligned with our Emiratisation commitments.”

Dr. Saad Al Wedami, Senior Manager at Abu Dhabi Youth Council, said: “Tawdheef × Zaheb has created a valuable opportunity for the youth of our nation, generating real impact and leaving a lasting positive impression. Platforms of this nature play an important role in helping young Emiratis engage more confidently with the future of work.”

To support this more outcome-focused direction, the 2026 edition will introduce enhanced visitor preparation features, including CV review areas, pre-scheduled employer matching, practical career guidance, and stronger employer commitment to onsite interviews. These features are designed to help Emirati jobseekers arrive with clearer goals, present themselves more effectively, and make better use of their time with recruiters.

For employers, the event will offer a more structured environment to meet national talent, conduct early conversations, identify potential candidates, and strengthen Emiratisation pipelines across key sectors.

Registration for Tawdheef × Zaheb 2026 is now open to Emirati jobseekers. Exhibitor stand applications are also open for organisations seeking to connect with UAE nationals and support their Emiratisation recruitment efforts, with early confirmation allowing participants to benefit from priority placement.

About Tawdheef × Zaheb:
Tawdheef × Zaheb is the UAE’s flagship Emirati career exhibition, held annually at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi. Organised by Informa Connect, the event connects Emirati jobseekers with employers across government, banking, technology, professional services, SMEs, and other key sectors.

About Informa Connect:
Informa Connect is the events and specialist publishing division of Informa PLC, a global business intelligence and academic publishing group listed on the London Stock Exchange.