UAE Golden Visas, inspiring women in the Middle East, Dubai freehold property, Oman holiday and more top stories this week
Major Updates in the UAE: Top Stories This Week
The UAE has witnessed several significant developments this week, including announcements on the Dubai-Abu Dhabi train network, adjustments to freehold property regulations, noteworthy real estate launches, and more.
Additionally, the Arabian Business editorial team released its highly-anticipated annual list of 100 inspiring women, spotlighting their pivotal role in driving economic growth and empowerment.
Here’s a round-up of the 10 most important stories selected by editors this week.
Unveiled: The Arabian Business 100 Most Inspiring Women 2025
Women leaders across the Middle East are redefining leadership, breaking barriers, and making groundbreaking contributions across industries.
Their efforts are shaping the region’s economic growth while fostering cultural shifts toward greater gender equality. These remarkable individuals are inspiring change, shattering stereotypes, and paving the way for future generations of female entrepreneurs.
To honor their achievements, the Arabian Business team utilized a nine-parameter evaluation model to compile the 100 Most Inspiring Women in the Middle East, offering a fresh perspective on modern influence and leadership in a rapidly evolving business world.
UAE Golden Visa: Your Ultimate Guide to Long-Term Residency
The UAE offers five to ten-year Golden Visas through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security.
This initiative enables residents and expatriates to enjoy long-term residency without the need for sponsorship.
Explore everything you need to know about obtaining a Golden Visa in 2025 and its benefits for living in the UAE.
Dubai-Abu Dhabi Train Network to Drive $40 Billion into the UAE Economy
Etihad Rail has unveiled a new high-speed train project connecting Dubai and Abu Dhabi, reducing travel time between the two cities to just 30 minutes.
The train, capable of reaching speeds of 350 km/h, is expected to revolutionize connectivity within the UAE. This initiative will play a vital role in developing the national railway sector while contributing approximately $40 billion to the UAE’s economy.
Freehold Property Rules to Boost Dubai’s Real Estate Market
Dubai’s recent decision to allow property owners in Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Jaddaf to convert their ownership status to freehold is predicted to significantly impact the real estate market.
Experts anticipate that this move will attract substantial investments, create new opportunities, and stimulate price growth, cementing Dubai’s reputation as a leading global investment hub.
Wealth Migration Trends: UAE Surpasses UK
A Henley & Partners report revealed that Dubai is now home to over 200 centi-millionaires, placing it among the top 15 global cities for ultra-high-net-worth residents.
Meanwhile, the UK is grappling with a historic outflow of talent and wealth due to political instability and declining quality of life. The UAE has further solidified its position on the world stage, becoming the first Arab nation to rank among the top 10 most powerful passports globally.
Dubai’s Secondary Real Estate Market Poised for Growth in 2025
Dubai’s secondary real estate market is expected to thrive this year, driven by a surge in family relocations and increased demand for ready-to-move-in homes.
While a wave of handovers in communities like Dubai Hills Estate and District One will balance supply, the prime and super-prime housing sectors may still see moderate price increases due to limited inventory.
Dubai Police Investigate $1.1 Billion in Financial Crimes
Over the last three years, Dubai Police have addressed 500 money laundering cases, totaling more than AED4 billion ($1.1 billion) in financial investigations.
Their efforts, in collaboration with international agencies, underscore the UAE’s commitment to combating financial crimes and enhancing global cooperation to counter organized crime.
Ras Al Khaimah to be Transformed with $1.4 Billion Development Pipeline
RAK Properties has announced a transformative $1.4 billion real estate pipeline, including the Mina development spanning 4 million square meters.
This project will feature three districts—Raha Island, Hayat Island, and Lagoons—situated along the scenic Ras Al Khaimah coastline, further boosting the Emirate’s real estate market and economy.
Oman Declares Three-Day Holiday for Isra and Mi’raj
Oman has announced a public holiday on Thursday, January 30, 2025, in celebration of Isra and Mi’raj. With Friday and Saturday being the weekend, this gives workers in the public and private sectors a three-day break to mark the occasion.
Saudi Arabia Expands Skills Verification Program
Saudi Arabia has introduced a major upgrade to its recruitment system by extending the Professional Verification service to 160 countries.
This initiative, under the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, aims to enhance the skill levels of expatriate workers entering the Kingdom and ensure they meet the required standards.
