KHDA inspections return: What it means for Dubai school fees
Regulator says schools may no longer undergo the same type of inspection every year, with approach shifting towards targeted visits based on data
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Regulator says schools may no longer undergo the same type of inspection every year, with approach shifting towards targeted visits based on data
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ABU DHABI,1st October, 2026 (WAM) -- Etihad Rail, Q Mobility and Parkin PJSC have announced a strategic partnership to develop and operate smart parking solutions across Etihad Rail's passenger station network, designed to make station parking more seamless, convenient and efficient. The partnership aims to enhance passenger experience, and support the development of a smarter and more sustainable transport system in the UAE, through the use of digital technologies and artificial intelligence in managing infrastructure and services.The partnership provides a strategic framework for implementing smart parking management solutions across the Etihad Rail station network. The first phase will cover stations in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Al Dhaid and Fujairah. Q Mobility will operate the vehicle parking facilities at the Abu Dhabi, Al Dhaid and Fujairah stations, while Parkin will operate the vehicle parking facilities at the Dubai station. The collaboration will contribute to a unified and seamless experience for passengers across the network's stations, and enhance the integration of the transport system and its services.Designed around passenger needs, the partners will work together to enhance access to stations and ensure a smoother parking experience, supporting seamless connections between car and train journeys and improving mobility options to and from stations.With unified parking management across Etihad Rail's station network, passengers will be able to benefit from secure, convenient digital payment options. By leveraging digital technologies, artificial intelligence, and data, the system will enhance operational efficiency, improve traffic flow, and optimise parking capacity. Azza Alsuwaidi, Chief Operating Officer at Etihad Rail, said: "Guided by the vision of the UAE's leadership to build a more connected and integrated transport ecosystem, we are focused on providing a seamless experience for passengers throughout their journey. Our partnership with Q Mobility and Parkin facilitates access to our stations through passenger-centric parking solutions and enhances mobility options to and from stations as our network expands. This partnership supports our ambition to offer passengers greater convenience, flexibility, and a wider range of choices for nationwide travel". Mohamed Husain Karmastaji, Chief Executive Officer of Q Mobility, said: "This partnership reflects our vision of developing smart mobility solutions powered by innovation, data and artificial intelligence, while supporting the UAE's transport infrastructure. We look forward to working with Etihad Rail and Parkin to develop an integrated parking management model across the station network, improve operational efficiency, enhance the user experience, and support sustainable and smart mobility". Mohamed Al Ali, Chief Executive Officer of Parkin, said: "Our partnership with Etihad Rail and Q Mobility marks a significant step in integrating smart parking services within the national transport network. By operating the parking facilities at Etihad Rail's Dubai station, we will deploy our digital solutions to simplify access and payment, enhance operational efficiency and deliver a seamless parking experience for rail passengers. We look forward to facilitating passenger access to rail services and contributing to a more interconnected and sustainable mobility ecosystem across the UAE". This partnership reaffirms Etihad Rail, Q Mobility and Parkin's commitment to delivering innovative mobility solutions for railway facility management and services that enhance connectivity, elevate the passenger experience, and support the UAE's vision of developing a smart, sustainable, and future-ready transport ecosystem.
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ABU DHABI, 1st October, 2026 (WAM) -- The Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) announced that the AED2.85 billion first phase of the Mid-Island Parkway project is scheduled for completion in 2027, creating a new road connection between Saadiyat Island and the Umm Yifeenah Island Central Interchange.Showcased as one of the department's key projects at LIVEX 2026, the completed Phase One encompasses an eight-lane dual carriageway that connects the existing northern Saadiyat interchange on the E12 highway to the island's southern end and across to Umm Yifeenah Island. Once open, the connection is expected to reduce journey times to Reem Island or Abu Dhabi's main island from 25 minutes to 10 minutes.Features of the new development include two kilometres of reclaimed land shielded by 150,000 square metres of protective rock covering to prevent erosion. The project's remaining 1.5 kilometres comprise an underground channel, including an 11-metre-deep, 600-metre underwater segment beneath Khor Laffan. For its construction, engineers utilised precast concrete roof panels, manufactured off site to reduce construction time, as well as on-site labour and scaffolding.The latest works build upon the previously finished highway along Saadiyat Island, which established direct links to Saadiyat Lagoons, Saadiyat Marina District, and New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD), among other key destinations. Extending this connectivity, the new phase includes four kilometres of walking and cycling tracks, forming a continuous 12-kilometre path across Saadiyat Island and onto Umm Yifeenah Island. Sustainability measures were also implemented, including prioritising locally sourced and recycled materials, installing 23,000 linear metres of smart energy-saving lighting, as well as using native, drought-resistant landscaping supported by an efficient 14,000-linear-metre irrigation system.Eng. Eisa Mubarak Al Mazrouei, Director General of Infrastructure Development at DMT, said: "The Mid-Island Parkway project as a whole reflects the kind of infrastructure Abu Dhabi is building today, where every major development, from design to delivery, takes into account its impact on the emirate's liveability and people's lives, as well as the wider benefits it brings to vital sectors of the economy such as tourism, trade and logistics. As we turn our attention to Phase Two, we are confident that this once-in-a-generation megaproject will serve as a global benchmark for multi-surface land transportation networks as well as an invaluable case study for engineers worldwide."Phase Two extends the Mid-Island Parkway transport corridor across 14.5 kilometres, linking Umm Yifeenah Island through Bilrimaid and Samaliyah Islands to Sas Al Nakhl, Al Raha Beach, and Khalifa City.Featuring four lanes in each direction, the route is set to reduce travel times across the mid-island corridor to approximately seven minutes. It also includes dedicated walking and cycling tracks to encourage active travel along its entire length.In addition, the new phase incorporates marine bridges, elevated flyovers, and an advanced underwater road tunnel. This submerged crossing is designed to limit disturbance to surrounding mangroves, salt marshes, and coastal sabkha habitats, preserving vital marine environments while keeping natural water channels open.The wider Mid-Island Parkway is designed to enhance the emirate's transport links. Once fully operational, the initiative will reduce travel times between the capital's various districts, with journeys between its two farthest points, Saadiyat Island and Zayed City, estimated to take just under 15 minutes.Alongside the Mid-Island Parkway, the DMT showcased the planned coastal route connecting Al Hudayriyat Island to the E11 at Al Nouf. Spanning 37 kilometres with three lanes in each direction, this major project will feature one tunnel, seven kilometres of marine bridges, and four kilometres of causeways, linking Al Dhafra directly to Al Hudayriyat Island and Abu Dhabi Island, via Halat Al Bahrani, Al Futaisi, and Al Aryam Islands.Providing a direct coastal bypass around central city traffic, the expressway will accommodate commercial freight as well as everyday commuters, while incorporating animal crossing infrastructure and environmental protections around the Bul Syayeef Marine Protected Area and Ramsar wetland.
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Petrol prices in the UAE are rising by around 16 per cent from October 1, with Super 98 reaching AED4.40 per litre and diesel AED4.80.
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Captain Smit Machchhar was injured in an altercation on the flight deck of flydubai flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv, which made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia.
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Dubai's private schools now host 406,563 students, and around 18,000 affordable seats are expected to be added over the next two academic years, KHDA said.
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Emirates expects to operate a limited Dubai flight schedule after a drone attack near Dubai International Airport forced a temporary suspension of flights; some DXB flights were diverted to Al Maktoum Airport
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The Etihad Rail station in Dubai was inaugurated on Monday, marking the official launch of the national rail network ahead of passenger services starting on September 30
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Suspects allegedly targeted motorists on major roads, claiming they needed money for travel expenses
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ABU DHABI, 28th September, 2026 (WAM) -- Tadweer Group will launch the first outdoor edition of ECORUN at Hudayriyat Island on 1 November 2026. The community event will feature 3 km, 5 km and 10 km races, an AED 100,000 prize pool, and a range of rewards. A free-to-enter ECORUN Village will offer live entertainment, family activities, partner activations and experiences focused on sustainability, health, and well-being.Building on the success of the previous edition, which attracted more than 740 participants from over 55 nationalities, the expanded event reflects ECORUN's growing community reach and its role in promoting active, sustainable lifestyles.Abdulwahed Juma, Executive Director of Communications and Awareness at Tadweer Group, said:"Taking ECORUN outdoors reflects the event's continued growth and our commitment to expanding community participation. By bringing together physical activity, environmental awareness and sustainable practices, we aim to turn awareness into practical action that supports quality of life and advances Abu Dhabi's circular economy."The 5 km and 10 km races will be competitive, featuring professional chip timing and official results, with eligible participants competing for a share of the prize pool. The 3 km category will offer a fun and inclusive experience, enabling families, children, PoD and participants of all fitness levels to walk, jog or run at their own pace.Beyond the races, the ECORUN Village will be open to the public free of charge. Visitors can enjoy family entertainment, sustainability activities, fitness and wellbeing sessions, partner activations and healthy food options.Sustainability will be integrated throughout the event through reusable, recycled and responsibly sourced materials, dedicated waste-sorting and recycling stations, and measures to reduce single-use plastics.The ECORUN Village will open on Sunday, 1 November from 5:30 a.m. for check-in. The 10 km race will start at 7:15 a.m., followed by the 5 km race at 7:20 a.m. and the 3 km fun run at 7:30 a.m.
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ABU DHABI, 28th September, 2026 (WAM) -- UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan received Benjamin Netanyahu, the Prime Minister of Israel, who visited the UAE on Sunday.During the meeting, the two sides discussed bilateral relations and ways to strengthen ties.
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Fraudsters are using fake advertisements, links, and social media accounts to trick customers into handing over money or sensitive personal and banking information
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DUBAI, 27th September, 2026 (WAM) -- The World Police Summit (WPS) and Emirates have announced a three-year strategic partnership that will see Emirates become the Official Airline Partner of the Summit, strengthening its global reach and helping connect police and security leaders, experts and solution providers from around the world with Dubai.The partnership comes as Dubai prepares to host the fifth edition of WPS from 16th to 18th November 2026 at Dubai World Trade Centre, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai.Organised by Dubai Police in partnership with DXB LIVE, the Summit will convene police chiefs, policymakers, international organisations, security experts and technology providers from around the world.Emirates will help connect this international community with Dubai, supporting the movement of delegates to a platform focused on cooperation, shared expertise and stronger public safety outcomes.The partnership builds on Dubai's position as a safe, globally connected destination for international gatherings.In 2025, 99.9% of residents reported feeling safe, while the city welcomed nearly 20 million visitors, reflecting both its high levels of security and its capacity to welcome people from around the world.That environment provides a strong foundation for the World Police Summit, which continues to attract growing international participation.Ahead of the 2026 edition, 95% of the exhibition space has already been booked and more than 150 speakers confirmed, bringing police leaders, security experts and solution providers together in Dubai.The three-year partnership with Emirates will further extend that international reach.Through its global network, delegate communications, digital platforms and onsite presence, the airline will help connect the Summit with participants worldwide and support their journey to Dubai.Ahead of the November Summit, dedicated World Police Summit content will also be featured on Emirates' ice inflight entertainment system, giving international passengers an opportunity to discover the Summit, its programme and its global mission before arriving in Dubai.H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, said, "Emirates connects Dubai with cities and communities around the world, and this partnership will support the international leaders, policymakers, experts and industry partners travelling for the World Police Summit. By bringing the global security community together, the Summit is a platform to share knowledge, build partnerships and advance practical solutions to the challenges facing an increasingly connected world, in infrastructure, at borders and across technology."Lieutenant General Abdulla Khalifa Al Marri, Commander-in-Chief of Dubai Police, said the World Police Summit has enforced its position as a leading international platform bringing together police and security leaders, decision makers and experts from around the world to exchange knowledge, anticipate the future of policing and develop innovative and sustainable solutions to rapidly evolving and cross-border security challenges."Our strategic partnership with Emirates will strengthen the Summit's international presence and broaden global participation through the national carrier's extensive network and its leading role in connecting Dubai with cities around the world," he said."This partnership reflects the integration of efforts between our national institutions to reinforce Dubai's position as a global hub for security dialogue, shaping a safer future, strengthening international cooperation, exchanging expertise and building effective partnerships that enhance the ability of law enforcement agencies to protect communities and future generations." Al Marri added.Held under the theme "Connected for Impact: Uniting Global Policing to Safeguard Future Generations", WPS 2026 builds on previous editions that have brought together police chiefs and senior security officials from around the globe.The programme will examine artificial intelligence in policing, cybercrime, financial fraud and organised crime, alongside the security of air, rail, road and maritime networks.An accompanying exhibition, Startup Arena and Academic Zone will connect international law enforcement agencies with technologies, emerging businesses and research supporting the future of public safety.
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