Author: Editorial team

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum was recently spotted visiting Cherry House, a café concept that combines a roastery, bakery, espresso bar, and dining experience. The venue shared photos from the visit on May 17, describing it as “an unforgettable milestone.” In a post shared online, the brand wrote in Arabic: “We were honoured by the visit of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the first supporter, as we continue following his vision and path.” The café also shared an English message thanking the Dubai Ruler, saying: “We had the privilege of welcoming His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin…

DUBAI, 18th May, 2026 (WAM) — Dubai Holding has announced a collaboration with Microsoft to embed artificial intelligence (AI) at the core of its operations, positioning the Group at the forefront of enterprise AI adoption in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region. The collaboration establishes the first deployment of its kind at enterprise scale in the region and reflects Dubai Holding’s strategic direction to integrate advanced technologies as core operational capabilities, to drive a more consistent, performance-led operating model across its portfolio, aligned with the UAE’s broader ambition to lead in the adoption of artificial intelligence. Through this collaboration,…

The UAE has introduced a new rule under the Wage Protection System (WPS) that standardises the deadline for paying private-sector salaries to regulate wage payments across the country. Under the updated rule, salaries must be paid on the first day of each Gregorian month for the previous month. Payments made after this date will be considered delayed under the system starting June 1, 2026. The decision issued on May 12 follows a ministerial resolution issued earlier this month by the Minister of Human Resources and Emiratisation (Mohre), aimed at strengthening compliance and ensuring timely wage payments across private sector establishments.…

Instead of speaking to therapists, counsellors, or even family members, many Arab teenagers are increasingly turning to TikTok and social media platforms for mental health advice, something UAE-based startup Elggo says reflects a deeper gap in how emotional wellbeing is being addressed across the region. “When nobody at home or at school opens that door, they go find answers on TikTok and social media instead, which is the worst possible place for it,” Mirna Mneimneh and Luma Makari, co-founders of Elggo told Khaleej Times The founders believe the issue is not that Arab youth are unwilling to discuss mental health,…

BEIJING, 18th May, 2026 (WAM) — China’s value-added industrial output increased by 5.6 percent year-on-year in the first four months of 2026, official data showed on Monday. In April alone, industrial output grew 4.1 percent year-on-year, and rose 0.05 percent compared to the previous month, according to data released by the National Bureau of Statistics. The industrial output is used to measure the activity of large enterprises each with an annual main business turnover of at least 20 million yuan ($2.92 million). In terms of sectors, the value added output of the mining sector increased by 5.5 percent year-on-year in…

DUBAI, 18th May, 2026 (WAM) — Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) Free Zone has announced its full-year results for 2025, reflecting continued growth across its business ecosystem and reinforcing its position as one of the UAE’s leading Free Zones. Driven by strong growth in new licence issuance, high renewal rate, and an increasingly diverse business community, the Free Zone delivered robust performance across all key indicators during the year. The number of new licences issued reached 850 in 2025, representing a 41 percent year-on-year increase and reflecting continued confidence in DWTC Free Zone as a destination for business set-up and…

BHM Capital, the leading financial institution in the UAE capital markets sector, announced its financial results for the first quarter ended 31 March 2026, delivering strong double-digit growth across key financial and operational indicators, reinforcing its position as a leading institution in the UAE capital markets sector. The Company reported total revenue of AED 61.9 million, representing a 38% increase year-on-year, while net profit reached AED 13.8 million, marking a 22% increase year-on-year. Shareholders’ equity stood at AED 523 million, reflecting a 3% increase compared to year-end 2025, reinforcing the Company’s strong balance sheet, sustainable growth trajectory, and disciplined execution…

SHARJAH, 18th May, 2026 (WAM) — Sharjah Charity International (SCI) announced the launch of a package of humanitarian and charitable initiatives during the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah to meet the needs of more than 18,000 families. Abdullah Sultan bin Khadim, Executive Director of SCI, said that AED2.6 million has been allocated to support several humanitarian projects during the blessed days. The initiatives include financial assistance for inmates facing debt-related cases, as well as facilitating Hajj for around 20 Emirati citizens from low-income backgrounds. The charity association will also organise an iftar initiative for around 15,000 fasting people on…

[Editor’s Note: Follow the Khaleej Times live blog for the latest regional developments with the US-Israel-Iran ceasefire now in effect.] The advisor to the UAE President, Anwar Gargash, called the attack on Abu Dhabi’s Barakah Nuclear Power Plant on Sunday a “criminal disregard for the lives of civilians in the UAE”. His statements come after the Emirates was targeted by three drones on May 17, with two being intercepted and one falling in the vicinity of the nuclear plant located in Al Dhafrah. The strike caused a fire in an electric generator located outside the inner perimeter of the plant. No injuries…

For many families in the UAE, Eid Al Adha has long been associated with rich lamb dishes, large family feasts, and tables filled with traditional comfort food. But this year, as Eid approaches, some residents are putting a lighter, more health-conscious spin on their celebrations, balancing cultural traditions with changing lifestyle habits. Across homes in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, classic Eid spreads are increasingly being paired with grilled proteins, healthier sides, portion-conscious serving styles, and air-fried alternatives. “We still make lamb every Eid because it’s part of the tradition,” said Dubai resident Sarah Ahmed, who hosts family gatherings during the…