Author: Editorial team

DUBAI, 18th June May, 2026 (WAM) — The Dubai Centre for Family Businesses, which operates under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers, has launched the first 2026 cycle of its Next-Gen Family Businesses Training Programme. Based on leading international standards, the programme offers a transformative leadership experience designed to equip the next generation in family businesses with the leadership, governance, and entrepreneurship capabilities required to create sustainable value for their family enterprises. The opening cycle of 2026 attracted 17 next-generation members of family businesses. The programme features an innovative training approach, incorporating interactive group discussions, role-play sessions, practical assessments, and real-life…

The weather on Friday, June 19, is expected to be fair in general, according to a forecast by the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM). Conditions are likely to get humid by night and Saturday morning over some western coastal areas, with a probability of fog or mist formation. Light to moderate southeasterly to northeasterly winds are set to blow, with a speed of 10-20 km/hr, reaching 30 km/hr. Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels. The sea will be slight in the Arabian Gulf and in the Oman Sea. Temperatures across the major cities…

A routine casting call from Dubai turned into a career-defining moment for UAE-based actor Puneet Sud, who found himself sharing the screen with Oscar-winning actor Jeremy Irons in Rihana, an international feature film that premiered at the Cannes Film Festival last month. The 67-year-old actor said he initially knew very little about the project when he was approached by a casting agency in Dubai and invited to travel to Sri Lanka for filming. He boarded a flight to Colombo expecting another acting assignment. It was only after arriving on set that he realised the scale of the production. “It was…

ABU DHABI, 18th June, 2026 (WAM) — In a step that reflects the UAE’s leadership in artificial intelligence and future-focused governance, the International Affairs Office at the UAE Presidential Court has launched “Zayed”, an AI-powered spokesperson designed to communicate the Office’s initiatives, strategic priorities, and global engagements through advanced digital technologies. The initiative introduces a new approach to institutional communications, leveraging artificial intelligence to deliver content and strategic messaging in a dynamic, accessible, and future-oriented format. Mariam bint Mohammed Almheiri, Head of the International Affairs Office at the UAE Presidential Court, said: “The UAE’s journey in artificial intelligence is rooted…

ABU DHABI, 18th June, 2026 (WAM) — Yas Association For Culture, Arts and Theater has announced the launch of the first specialised team in the art of stand-up comedy within the sector of cultural and theatrical organizations in the UAE. This initiative represents a significant step towards diversifying performing arts while supporting national talents. Comprising a select of professional artists and experts, the team seeks to advance this artistic form through a professional vision that enhances and enriches the cultural and artistic landscape of the nation. The team’s launch aligns with the Association’s efforts to support young creative talents by…

[Editor’s Note: This article is part of Khaleej Times’ Schools and Parents, a dedicated section designed to support families in the UAE as they explore educational choices. The section offers explainers, guidance from education leaders, expert advice and insights from parents to help readers make informed decisions about schools, curricula and communities.] For many expatriate families in the UAE, education is treated as a continuous journey — school admission, annual fee payments, graduation plans. But beneath that routine lies a financial curve that often sharpens too late. Experts say the real challenge is not school affordability alone, but the transition into…

A Dubai-raised student has earned one of the highest honours awarded to graduating seniors at Stanford University. Lamya Sikandar Butt, an alumna of Dubai Scholars Private School, was selected by Stanford University’s Class of 2026 to deliver the student graduation address during the university’s Baccalaureate celebration on June 13. Each year, Stanford chooses one graduating senior to speak on behalf of the entire class, making the role one of the most prestigious student distinctions at the university. Butt addressed an audience of approximately 4,500 graduates, family members and guests during the ceremony. The same graduation weekend also featured a commencement…

RAS AL KHAIMAH, 18th June, 2026 (WAM) — H.H. Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, has directed that Emirati fishermen in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah be exempted from the financial obligations due from them until the end of 2026. The directive reflects Hi.H.’s commitment to supporting them, enhancing the stability of Emirati families, and preserving traditional national professions. The directive coincides with 2026, designated as the “Year of the Family” in the UAE, and embodies the vision of the Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah to empower citizens and provide…

ABU DHABI, 18th June, 2026 (WAM) — Within the framework of the unified GCC media campaign launched under the slogan “Insurance Protection under a Unified GCC Umbrella”, Hind Al Suwaidi, Executive Director of the Pensions Sector at the General Pension and Social Security Authority and Chairperson of the Technical Committee for Civil Retirement and Social Security Authorities, stated that the GCC Insurance Protection Extension System embodies the vision of GCC leaders to ensure all GCC citizens enjoy a decent, reassuring and sustainable lifestyle that further encourages career orientation in the GCC region. Al Suwaidi highlighted that the system stands as…

ABU DHABI, 18th June, 2026 (WAM) — The Emirates Nuclear Energy Company (ENEC) celebrated the graduation of the first cohort of its Diploma in Nuclear Technology programme, marking an important milestone in the continued development of the UAE’s national nuclear energy workforce. A total of 20 graduates completed the programme, which is delivered by ENEC across its headquarters and the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant, where the graduates will transition into operational support roles. The programme is also accredited by the UAE’s Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research. The graduation ceremony was held in Abu Dhabi and was attended by…