AGP Executive Report

U.S.-Iran Tensions: The U.S. launched new airstrikes on Iran, with Tehran retaliating and attacks reportedly hitting Bahrain, Kuwait and Qatar—raising fresh worries for the fragile ceasefire and energy routes. Export Controls & AI Tech: The U.S. loosened export restrictions for the UAE, easing access to military items, satellites and advanced computing, including AI chips and servers. Telecom Deal Watch: E& is selling its entire Vodafone stake to French billionaire Xavier Niel’s investment vehicle in a $5.95bn move, boosting Vodafone shares and reshaping ownership. UAE-Syria Connectivity: flydubai resumes flights to Aleppo after nearly 14 years, adding a daily non-stop service from 20 July alongside its Damascus route. Abu Dhabi Real Estate: Aldar unveiled Yas Point, a Dh6bn waterfront project near Sphere Abu Dhabi and Disneyland Abu Dhabi, with 1,600 residences and a five-star resort. Environment Score: The UAE topped Arab countries in the 2026 Environmental Performance Index, citing whole-of-society climate and ecosystem efforts. Summer Travel Prep: Dubai Customs says it’s ready for peak season, with about 3 million passengers expected in the first half of July.

UAE-Iran tensions: The UAE strongly condemned renewed hostile Iranian attacks on Bahrain and Kuwait as the US and Iran exchanged more strikes, raising fresh fears for the fragile ceasefire and shipping safety. Regional security: Gulf states stepped up coordination after the escalation, while IMO calls urged caution as Hormuz traffic faced fresh strain. Abu Dhabi business & tech: Cerebras said it will bring 200MW of AI compute online in Europe by end-2027, starting with data centre capacity in France and the Nordics by end-2026. Corporate tax clarity: The FTA answered common UAE Corporate Tax questions, including how foreign firms’ “permanent establishment” is assessed and how Free Zone branches are treated. Humanitarian focus: UAE-linked coverage highlighted the worsening siege in Sudan’s El Obeid and the ongoing humanitarian crisis. Travel & lifestyle: UAE residents saw India fares drop nearly 30% on some routes, while Abu Dhabi’s Dune: Part Three continued to spotlight the emirate’s desert filming role.

U.S.-Iran Escalation: The US launched new airstrikes on Iran and Tehran retaliated by targeting U.S.-allied Gulf states, with sirens in Bahrain and missiles aimed at Kuwait and Qatar—raising fresh fears the interim ceasefire is collapsing. Hormuz Shockwaves: With tensions spiking, tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz was nearly at a standstill as ships reportedly switched off tracking signals and risk perception surged. UAE Diplomacy: The UAE condemned the attack on Qatar’s tanker Al Rekayyat and reiterated that Iranian attacks on commercial vessels threaten navigation safety, in calls with Qatar’s foreign minister. Abu Dhabi Energy Watch: The UAE inaugurated the Emirates Monitoring Centre to provide real-time oversight of the national power grid and coordinate outage response. Investment Spotlight: UNCTAD ranked the UAE 9th globally and 1st in the Middle East for 2025 FDI inflows, totaling $48.24bn. Culture & Heritage: Ajman launched Artisans Majlis to back Emirati crafts and the creative economy, while the UAE Council for Fatwa warned against social-media fatwas.

Middle East Tensions: The US launched fresh airstrikes on Iran after Trump said the Iran ceasefire is “over,” warning more strikes could hit “tonight,” while Tehran retaliated by targeting Bahrain, Kuwait and Qatar—prompting missile sirens and drone interceptions and raising fresh fears for shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Maritime Safety: Tankers reportedly turned back from the Strait amid heightened risk, as attacks on vessels continued to disrupt regional oil and gas flows. UAE Business & Finance: First Abu Dhabi Bank confirmed it will seek a South Africa banking licence after a court victory over trademark registration plans. Transport in Focus: Etihad Rail shared what passengers can expect at its stations, as the UAE readies wider rail connectivity. Ajman Development: Ajman unveiled a Dh1.8bn, five-year AM30x30 programme covering roads, green spaces and public facilities. Aviation Tragedy: Search teams in Pakistan recovered wreckage from a K2 Airways Boeing 737 cargo crash near Karachi, but five crew members remain missing. Tech & IP: The UAE registered 17,217 trademarks in H1 2026 after joining the Locarno Agreement, strengthening its intellectual property framework.

Gulf Security: US President Donald Trump warned Iran the U.S. is preparing for another night of strikes after saying the ceasefire is “over,” threatening action against civilian infrastructure and Kharg Island as fighting around the Strait of Hormuz escalates. UAE Foreign Policy: The UAE condemned renewed Iranian attacks targeting Bahrain and Kuwait, calling them a violation of sovereignty. Aviation Crisis: A K2 Airways Boeing 737-400 cargo plane vanished after reporting navigation trouble on a Sharjah-to-Karachi flight; Pakistan recovered wreckage south of Ormara and search continues for five crew. Local Enforcement: Abu Dhabi Municipality launched a campaign against illegal street trading and unlicensed sales, with inspectors checking areas and urging public reporting. Heritage Protection: The Federal National Council approved a draft cultural heritage law with major fines and prison for serious offences, including damage, theft, smuggling, and unauthorised works at heritage sites. Investment Spotlight: Sheikh Mohammed said the UAE drew record AED177.3bn FDI inflows in 2025, ranking 9th globally. Smart Mobility: Dubai Police unveiled second-generation “Ghiath” smart patrol vehicles with BYD, boosting tech-led policing.

Middle East Tensions: The US launched fresh strikes on Iran after three merchant ships were hit in the Strait of Hormuz, with CENTCOM saying it targeted air defence, coastal radar and anti-ship capabilities; Iran warned it would respond, while Bahrain and Kuwait sounded missile alerts. Oil & Shipping Watch: The US also revoked a licence allowing Iran to sell crude oil, raising fears for the fragile ceasefire and energy flows through the key shipping lane. UAE Aviation Milestone: Abu Dhabi’s aviation regulator certified the world’s first purpose-built commercial vertiport for air taxis, paving the way for Dubai’s Air Taxi network. Search & Rescue: A Pakistan-registered K2 Airways Boeing 737 cargo plane vanished off Karachi after reporting navigation trouble on a flight from Sharjah; authorities are searching the Arabian Sea. Local Economy & Costs: UAE residents are watching whether falling fuel prices will ease grocery bills, as regional energy and food markets stay sensitive. Business & Investment: ADNOC Distribution was named preferred buyer for Shell’s South Africa fuel-station network in a roughly $1bn deal, signalling more UAE-led expansion abroad. Robotics in the UAE: Faraday Future is pushing humanoid-robot plans through UAE and GCC partnerships, including rental-style deployment ideas for schools and businesses. Weather: Abu Dhabi is forecast near 40°C, with inland areas reaching 43°C and high humidity in coastal spots.

Aviation & Tech Leap: The UAE has certified the world’s first purpose-built commercial vertiport for eVTOL air taxis in Dubai, with GCAA approval for VDX and plans for a wider Air Taxi network. Education & AI Skills: Alef Education and Microsoft say they trained about 25,000 educators across 710 UAE schools in AI literacy, rolling out through MoE and local education authorities. Security in the Gulf: NATO foreign ministers are meeting Gulf counterparts to discuss Strait of Hormuz tensions and a proposed maritime mission, as British military reports multiple tanker hits and fires. Energy & Markets: Saudi Aramco cut its Arab Light crude price for Asia, while Gulf stocks stayed mixed as investors weigh earnings and renewed U.S.-Iran risks. Local Governance & Environment: Dubai’s DECCA signed an MoU with Ajman to strengthen environmental protection and shared governance for protected areas and resources. Business & Investment: ADNOC Distribution agreed to buy Shell Downstream South Africa for about $1bn, expanding its fuel retail footprint into Africa’s largest industrial market.

Energy & Trade: ADNOC has signed a 15-year LNG supply deal with Japan’s Inpex for 1 million tonnes per year from the Ruwais LNG project, as the company also pushes a new global LNG marketing and trading platform. Shipping Security: A tanker off Oman in the Strait of Hormuz was set ablaze after a projectile strike, with UK maritime authorities saying there was no environmental impact and investigations are ongoing. Humanitarian Focus: Gaza aid deliveries remain squeezed as Israeli restrictions and border closures limit offloading at Karem Abu Salem, while an OCHA delegation visited the UAE Field Hospital to discuss how to keep medical services running. Abu Dhabi Economy: ADNEC Group reported record results for 2025, generating AED9.2bn in economic impact and 2.17 million hotel room nights. UAE Weather: Humidity is expected to stay high across much of the country, with Abu Dhabi and Dubai among the areas reaching up to 85%.

Banking Disruption Update: Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank says its mobile banking app is restored and fully functional for most customers after a week-long technical disruption, with core systems and corporate channels operating normally and only a limited segment of Aspire retail customers still waiting for app reinstatement. Humanitarian Response: The UAE announced a US$30 million emergency aid package for civilians in Sudan’s El Obeid, urging safe and unhindered humanitarian access and civilian protection. Gaza Aid Coordination: A UN OCHA delegation visited the UAE field hospital in Gaza to review medical services and discuss how to sustain healthcare operations. Abu Dhabi Waste Project: Tadweer awarded a contract to Urbaser for Abu Dhabi’s first greenfield Material Recovery Facility, targeting 400,000 tonnes annual processing and operations from 2028. UAE in Global Security Talks: The UAE took part in UN Counter-Terrorism Week, highlighting responsible AI and multilateral cooperation to counter extremist misuse of emerging technologies. Local Governance & Education: Speaker Bagbin pledged government support for Ghana’s UBIDS to fix infrastructure deficits and back its law training accreditation bid. Business & Markets: UAE stock markets moved higher as companies prepared for Q2 earnings, while the CBUAE imposed a Dhs1.82m sanction on a foreign bank branch for a regulatory breach.

UAE Economy & Markets: UAE stocks stayed resilient in June, with Dubai leading Gulf gains as investors looked past regional stress and oil-price jitters. Transport & Daily Life: Dubai is upgrading the nol system from card-based tickets to account-based digital payments, with full rollout targeted by Q1 2027. Rail Rules: Etihad Rail reminded passengers that fines start at Dh200 and can reach Dh5,000 for offences ranging from fare issues to disruptive behaviour. Real Estate: UAE property continues strong first-half momentum, driven by investor demand and supportive policy, with experts pointing to a more mature growth phase. Health & Community: Speaker Bagbin backed UBIDS with six dialysis machines and outlined plans to upgrade the hospital toward a teaching medical school. Food & Trade: APEDA facilitated the first export of J&K Areko cherries and Scentrose plums to Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Weather: NCM forecasts scorching conditions, with inland highs around 47°C and humid nights. Sports: UAE Team Emirates-XRG’s Isaac Del Toro won Tour de France stage two in Barcelona, delivering a UAE one-two with Tadej Pogacar.

OPEC+ Oil Update: Seven OPEC+ members agreed to lift August quotas by 188,000 barrels per day as Gulf exports recover after easing Middle East tensions, with further decisions set for August 2. UAE Energy & Trade Pulse: Fitch expects non-OPEC output to rise and notes the UAE’s fast rebound, including record June crude exports of about 3.7–3.8m bpd and rerouting via Khor Fakkan and Fujairah to bypass Hormuz disruptions. Public Transport Upgrade: Dubai’s RTA says 72% of the nol system upgrade is done, moving from card ticketing to account-based payments, with bank cards and QR options, targeting full rollout by Q1 2027. Indian Consular Access: India’s Abu Dhabi embassy and Dubai consulate introduced an online booking portal for passport, visa and attestation services while outsourcing transitions are handled. Etihad Rail Tourism Boost: Etihad Rail’s first passenger service is set to strengthen connectivity and tourism, including a new push for Fujairah. UAE Aid to Gaza: Four Emirati convoys delivered 416 tonnes of relief supplies to Gaza under Operation Gallant Knight 3. UAE Education Results: IB results show strong performance across UAE schools after support under the IB Non-Exam Contingency Measure. UAE in US Skies: Al Fursan made a historic first US appearance during America’s 250th Independence Day celebrations.

UAE–US Ties: Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid and Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed sent messages to US President Donald Trump on America’s 250th Independence Day, reaffirming the UAE’s “enduring partnership” and shared goals for peace and prosperity. World Cup Spotlight: UAE Vice President Sheikh Mohammed praised Morocco after the Atlas Lions beat Canada 3-0 to reach the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals, calling it a proud moment for the Arab world. Regional Security Watch: A French push for Gulf maritime stability highlighted coordination with the UAE and Qatar around freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, aiming to prevent escalation that could disrupt global shipping. UAE Weather & Heat: The National Centre of Meteorology warned of hot conditions, with temperatures expected to climb to around 47°C inland. Digital Compliance: Advintek received UAE FTA Accredited Service Provider approval for e-invoicing, positioning it for the January 2027 mandate. Business & Property: Arista Properties broke ground on its HQ commercial development in Al Furjan, targeting Q4 2027 handover.

UAE Leadership Visits: President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed visited Saif Miftah Al Neyadi in Al Ain, reaffirming values of unity and social cohesion. UAE–Global Partnerships: The UAE and Guyana reiterated plans to expand economic cooperation, while the UAE also discussed ties with Serbia and other partners. Green Mobility Push: DEWA installed 46 EV charging points at Al Shera’a HQ—40 AC for staff and six fast DC chargers for visitors—supporting Dubai’s sustainability drive. Abu Dhabi Rail Milestone: Sheikh Nahyan toured UAE passenger rail operations as the national network begins service, with Fujairah–Abu Dhabi journeys starting and further emirate links planned. Business & Finance: Abu Dhabi’s L’imad Holding got an approved investment and operations framework to diversify into energy, ports, aviation and more. Weather Watch: NCM reported the UAE’s top temperature hit 48.1°C in Mezaira. Public Safety: Residents were urged to avoid risky summer practices like balcony shisha and unattended candles.

UAE Weather & Summer Calendar: Hot conditions continue with inland temperatures climbing to 47°C, plus dusty spells and rising humidity overnight. Schools are set to return on Aug 31, 2026, after about an eight-week summer break. Child Safety & Work Rules: The UAE reiterates that children under 15 can’t work and that social media access is being tightened for under-15s, with identity checks for platforms. Legal & Family Documentation: A guide explains how to handle cases where an unregistered marriage affects a child’s identification documents, urging families to follow the proper UAE documentation steps. Security & Crime: Two operators of illegal gambling networks were extradited from the UAE to South Korea in a joint operation. Finance & Digital Assets: The UAE Central Bank cleared DDSC to go live on selected VARA-regulated exchange platforms, expanding regulated AED-pegged digital payments. Business & Investment: Libya and the UAE discussed expanding economic and investment ties, while Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Rail pushes forward as a key connectivity project. Sports & Culture: UAE-linked sports headlines include Egypt’s World Cup Round of 16 breakthrough and UAE football/entertainment tie-ins, plus a Dh25 million Abu Dhabi Big Ticket winner planning to buy a home.

UAE-US Ties: Emirati aerobatic team Al Fursan will join US Independence Day air displays for the first time, flying over New York’s Jones Beach alongside the Blue Angels. Security & Tech: The UAE Cyber Security Council says it thwarted sophisticated cyberattacks on the financial sector, using phishing and malware attempts that were contained under national protocols. Energy Watch: Oil prices are set for a fourth straight weekly slide as Strait of Hormuz shipping recovers and the war risk premium fades. Health: A 10-year-old Emirati girl is recovering after a four-hour surgery for rare aggressive stage-1 thyroid cancer, with doctors saying her prognosis is excellent. Diplomacy & Trade: Chile’s president met UAE trade minister Thani Al Zeyoudi, stressing stronger trade and investment links. Regional Fallout: UAE, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain condemned a deadly café bombing in Damascus. Business Climate: UAE PMI data points to softer non-oil activity in June, with conflict weighing on demand and hiring.

UAE–Libya Diplomacy: President Sheikh Mohamed met Libya’s PM Abdul Hamid Dbeibah in Abu Dhabi, discussing bilateral ties and regional stability. Regional Security: The US and 12 Middle East countries agreed in Bahrain to intensify efforts to keep trade flowing through the Strait of Hormuz, with the UAE among participants. UAE–India Industry: Adnoc’s International Holding Company and India’s Adani Group signed an MoU for a $11.5bn aluminium project in Odisha, aiming to build a major refinery and smelter plus power capacity. UAE Social Impact: The UAE launched the Companies for Good 2031 strategy, asking private firms to deliver ethical CSR projects worth over Dh20bn by 2031. Middle East Tensions: Iran warned oil tankers to use approved Hormuz routes or face a “forceful response,” as negotiations and security concerns continue. Travel & Business: Etihad expanded summer capacity, adding frequencies and extending routes including Abu Dhabi–Dhaka to year-round service.