Dubai Weekly Roundup – Week Ending 12 September 2025

Here is your quick, clear look at Dubai’s top stories this week. From policy shifts and business momentum to education, health, culture, and what to do next, this roundup keeps you informed.

Top News and Policy Updates

• Dubai Design Week 2025 announced: The 11th edition runs 4–9 November with installations, pop-ups, talks, and the “Designed in Saudi” showcase. For founders planning pop-ups, start with our guide to UAE business setup. For global design context, see International Council of Design.
• Medical advertising clampdown: Stricter rules on social media ads for medical services aim to reduce misleading claims. Review internal policies and train staff on compliance.
• KHDA guidelines: New staff appointment and deregistration guides for private schools raise transparency and standards. Schools should align HR workflows and documentation.

Business and Economy

• Property market resilience: Real estate activity grew about 10% year-on-year in August, led by prime and upper-mid segments.
• Hospitality infrastructure: Al Maktoum International Airport’s VIP Terminal Boulevard continues to advance, reinforcing luxury travel credentials.
• Retail loyalty partnership: Landmark Group and ADNOC Distribution launched a joint loyalty programme to connect retail and fuel audiences.
• SME launchpad: Dubai remains a strong base for ecommerce and services thanks to licensing options and logistics. Compare options in our UAE free zones overview and UAE ecommerce starter guide.

Lifestyle and Culture

• Urban Commissions 2025 winner: The theme, “When Does a Threshold Become a Courtyard?” explores courtyards as shared community space and urban infrastructure.
• Design Week preview: Expect regional creativity, limited-edition design products, and sustainability-led installations across Dubai Design District.

Family and Education

• New teacher rules: Teachers resigning mid-term must observe a 90-day stand-down before joining another KHDA-regulated school unless they complete the term. New qualification and conduct benchmarks apply through 2028/29.
• School food safety drive: Dubai Municipality is intensifying checks of school canteens, training staff, and monitoring menus through the DM Checked platform. For UAE safeguarding context, see UAE Government: Child Protection.
• Scholarship and mentorship: A global scholarship programme launched in Dubai with financial aid, mentoring, and career pathways for students.

Health and Community

• Dubai Health Innovation Centre: A new centre for innovation and technology was inaugurated to blend clinical care, research, and digital health solutions.
• Community fitness: The Dubai Mallathon brought families indoors for walking and running, promoting wellness during the summer heat.

What’s On – Key Events

• Dubai Design Week 2025 – 4–9 November, Dubai Design District.
• World Health Expo (WHX) – global healthcare innovation showcase.
• Community wellness activations – indoor fitness events such as the Dubai Mallathon.

Opportunities for Businesses

• Schools and education: Align HR and contracts with new KHDA rules; showcase compliance in admissions materials. See our UAE marketing guides to promote open days.
• Health and wellness providers: Update social media ad policies to meet medical advertising standards; explore pilots with the innovation centre.
• Retail and hospitality: Plan Design Week tie-ins, themed menus, limited runs, and pop-ups near Dubai Design District.
• Family brands: Connect offers to school food safety campaigns and community wellness events.

Conclusion

Dubai adds pace with design, education standards, health innovation, and a steady property market. Mark your calendar for Design Week, check new school rules, and look for compliant health ads as the city tunes policy and community life.

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