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The United Arab Emirates has agreed to re-enter the Yemen conflict by resuming payments to government forces fighting Iran-aligned Houthis. Saudi Arabia will provide air cover in return, marking a healing rift between the two Gulf states triggered by recent Houthi advances.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, to discuss bilateral ties and the Gulf situation during his three-day visit to Abu Dhabi. The meeting followed talks with UAE counterpart Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan to deepen engagements across trade, investment, energy, defence, and security.
UAE Undersecretary for Foreign Trade Fahad Al Gergawi contends that the UAE has maintained trade flows and expanded partnerships during the Iran conflict. He suggests that diversifying away from the Strait of Hormuz and strengthening Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements are key strategies for enhancing economic resilience amid global geopolitical uncertainty.
The editorial argues that recent Abu Dhabi exhibitions challenge Western perceptions of the Gulf as isolated, instead portraying it as a historic crossroads of commerce and culture. It suggests these displays, focusing on maritime exchange and camel history, explain the UAE's enduring global connectivity.
The article reports on Iraqi oud virtuoso Naseer Shamma's return to the UAE National Orchestra, highlighting his new compositions and the ensemble's artistic evolution. It details Shamma's decades of experimentation with the instrument and his foundational role in establishing Bait Al Oud conservatories across the Arab world.
The National reports on the reopening of Dubai's Global Village for its 31st season, highlighting new attractions like the Tokyo Rush roller coaster, refreshed cultural pavilions, and expanded dining options under the theme 'A More Wonderful World,' with operations scheduled until May 2027.
Dubai has commenced construction on Water Gardens, a $1.4 billion financial district featuring hotels and office spaces. The project aims to strengthen the city's financial hub status following recent disruptions linked to regional conflicts, with completion expected by late 2028.
The National Editorial contends that trust is the primary barrier to realizing AI's economic potential in the UAE and broader Middle East. It highlights Minister Omar Al Olama’s stance that AI must earn public trust before gaining decision-making power, warning that this social license is essential for capturing projected trillion-dollar value.
The National discusses controversy surrounding the Michelin Guide Dubai, specifically how restaurants with paused operations due to regional conflict received star ratings. The commentary reflects on hospitality sector challenges and highlights diverse Arabic cinema submissions for upcoming Oscars.