Low oil prices have contributed to a weaker Hajj economy in Saudi Arabia this year. More than 1.9 million people are predicted to attend this year’s pilgrimage, down from a peak of three million in previous years. Business owners catering to Mecca visitors say government cutbacks in the Kingdom and in some neighbouring countries mean many would-be pilgrims have less money to spend on the journey.
UAE launches KYC platform for enhanced financial data
The UAE government has launched the Know Your Customer (KYC) digital platform, aimed at providing accurate, confidential data for financial transactions.
Volkswagen union signals strikes in December but talks continue
Volkswagen's union said it was gearing up for strikes across German factories from December 1 after talks over wages and unprecedented factory closures at Europe's largest carmaker failed to achieve a breakthrough on Thursday.
UAE trade delegation visits Finland, meets Finnish companies
A UAE delegation headed by the Assistant Minister for Economic and Trade Affairs, Saeed Mubarak Al Hajeri, conducted meetings with prominent companies in Finland during an official visit.
UAE visit to Ireland aims to strengthen science and tech ties
A UAE delegation, led by the Assistant Foreign Minister for Advanced Science and Technology, Omran Sharaf, concluded a two-day visit to Ireland's capital for talks on strengthening science, technology, and trade partnerships.
Mubadala, France's Safran to drive aerospace growth in UAE
Mubadala Investment Company and Safran, a French multinational aerospace and defence corporation, have joined forces to accelerate aerospace innovation and development within the UAE.
Dubai Police have issued 12,019 fines this year for unauthorised vehicle modifications that cause excessive noise and disturbances.
The UAE announced the official holiday for the 53rd National Day, recently renamed Eid Al Etihad, will be on December 2 and 3 for private and public entities, with work resuming on December 4.
The Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) has taken action against Al Razouki Exchange, suspending its operations for three years and shutting down two of its branches in Dubai.
