UAE News Roundup: 28th June 2025

TL;DR

• Dubai set temperature records, while rare rain hit Al Ain—families and workers felt the impact.
• Emirates NBD clarified it won’t charge remittance fees for India, Pakistan, the Philippines and Egypt, reassuring expats and business owners.
• Expats in Dubai are landing major wins, with some scoring big in business and the lottery.
• Sheikh Hamdan surprised diners by paying everyone’s bill at Dubai Mall, highlighting the city’s unique restaurant scene.
• Startups, hiring trends, sporting milestones, health warnings, and worker welfare campaigns round out a dynamic week.

Let’s break down what these updates mean for business owners, expats, families, and anyone building a life in the UAE.

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Top UAE Headlines: Weather Extremes, Business Moves & Celebrity Moments

Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko

June brought a powerful mix of optimism and challenge to the UAE. Soaring temperatures didn’t stop a rare rainfall in Al Ain, while Dubai set new heat records. Emirates NBD quickly addressed community concerns over transfer fees, reassuring millions of South Asian expats and business owners. At the same time, Dubai’s job market saw a wave of new openings aimed at attracting ambitious expats, with some roles offering salaries up to Dh50,000 per month. Fly Emirates adjusted its regional routes, and a former pizza delivery driver became the latest Amazon success story in Dubai. Whether you’re tracking business trends or lifestyle upgrades, a lot happened this week.

For those after comprehensive, up-to-date coverage, the Latest UAE News Reports section keeps you informed across business, lifestyle, and travel.

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Record Heat and Rain in Al Ain: What Residents Should Know

Al Ain saw the thermometer touch a scorching 49.2°C, but the surprise came when a rare rain shower cut through the heat. The National Centre of Meteorology reported several streets affected, impacting both travel and electricity use across the city. This isn’t just a blip—May 2025 was officially the hottest on record, with an average over 33°C for the month, according to coverage by The National.

A UAE official commented, “Such extremes remind us to adapt daily routines and look after vulnerable communities—especially those working outdoors.” Commuters, families with young children, and small businesses operating outside should pay close attention to the Latest Weather Updates in UAE for reliable, real-time forecasts.

Key points for residents:

• Stay hydrated and limit midday outdoor activities.
• Watch for temporary flooding and slippery roads after summer rains.
• Expect more announcements from local authorities as weather patterns shift.

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Banking & Business Boost: Emirates NBD Clarification and E-Invoicing Prep

Money transfers are a lifeline for millions in the UAE. When Emirates NBD was rumoured to add charges to its DirectRemit service, tensions ran high. The bank clarified there would be no additional fee for sending money to India, Pakistan, the Philippines or Egypt. This brought relief, especially in South Asian communities where high-frequency remittances support families back home. More on this positive news can be found in the official Emirates NBD statement through Gulf News.

For business owners, regulatory changes are on the horizon with mandatory e-invoicing coming by mid-2026. Companies should start preparations now, as delays could affect compliance and daily operations. Summer hiring is also heating up, with government and private firms offering bumper salaries and dynamic growth opportunities, especially for expats seeking long-term stability.

Practical action items:

• Check if your business is ready for new e-invoicing rules.
• Explore UAE-wide listings for qualified staff, as job competition increases.
• Keep an eye on Essential UAE Updates for Residents and Businesses for the latest in regulation and employment trends.

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Entrepreneurial Success: From Pizza Delivery to Amazon King

Dreams really do come true in Dubai’s marketplace. In a story that’s inspired thousands, a UK expat who started life in Dubai delivering pizzas is now a thriving Amazon seller king. His journey from part-time driver to a seven-figure e-commerce business was rocky, but determination, learning from mistakes, and adapting to the UAE’s fast-changing retail market paid off. He tackled challenges like building brand trust, automating logistics, and gaining visibility in crowded search results.

Business-minded readers can learn from this by:

• Building credibility early and investing in reviews.
• Using local business platforms like UAEThrive.com to boost discovery.
• Understanding regulatory requirements before scaling up.

For the full story, see How a Pizza Delivery Boy from UK Became an Amazon Shop King in Dubai.

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Emirates Airlines Flight Suspension and Regional Air Updates

Emirates Airlines announced ongoing flight suspensions to Iran and will soon resume services to Iraq, affecting thousands of travellers and cargo movers this summer. This move, prompted by safety and regulatory reviews, is key for both business and leisure travellers. In the wake of these changes, airport authorities advise passengers to double-check bookings and consider flexible ticket options.

While disruptions are inconvenient, regional travel remains strong, with local airports anticipating record numbers. The airline’s clarity and frequent updates have made it easier for families, business owners, and tourists to adjust their plans as needed. Reliable sources like Gulf News provide more context.

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Sheikh Hamdan’s Restaurant Surprise and Dubai’s Top Dining Spots

Dubai’s dining scene buzzed with excitement after Sheikh Hamdan paid the entire bill for guests dining at a restaurant in Dubai Mall. This spontaneous act of generosity made headlines and reflected the city’s welcoming spirit. Sheikh Hamdan is known for visiting eateries favoured by foodies and newcomers alike, putting venues like La Maison Ani and Gigi 2.0 in the spotlight.

If you want to savour dishes approved by Dubai royalty or discover trending venues, browsing UAEThrive’s restaurant directory is the smart way to start. For a curated list, Gulf News compiled the best royal-approved Dubai restaurants.

Top picks for exploring:

• Celebrity chef haunts
• Family-friendly brunches
• Scenic rooftop dining

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Beyond the Headlines: Health, Culture, Community & Sports

Alongside business developments, health warnings, community drives, and viral cultural moments grabbed attention this week.

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Salman Khan’s Health Battle and UAE Doctors’ Warnings

When Bollywood star Salman Khan revealed his battle with a rare brain condition, UAE doctors and health experts warned the public not to ignore persistent headaches. Medical authorities stressed the importance of regular check-ups given the country’s rising interest in health literacy. According to the Dubai Health Authority, common health issues can sometimes indicate more serious conditions, making timely intervention crucial for families and busy professionals alike.

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Big Wins: Indian Expat Lands Dh150,000 and Dubai Startup Stories

Expats continue to reach ambitious goals, with one Indian national winning Dh150,000 in Abu Dhabi’s Big Ticket draw just a day after his purchase. Startup fever is real—another long-term expat made the bold move away from a 20-year job to launch a successful real estate company, proving the UAE is a place for new beginnings. Interested in making your own mark? Learn more about community-driven business listings at UAEThrive.com.

Tips for aspiring entrepreneurs:

• Enter community prize draws for a chance at extra income.
• Prioritise visibility through trusted local directories and partnerships.

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Support Initiatives: Al Freej Fridge Campaign and Worker Welfare in the Summer

Summer in the UAE means community support is more vital than ever. The ‘Al Freej Fridge’ campaign is set to distribute two million free ice creams and juices to workers, thanks to a network of volunteers and sponsors across Dubai. In a time of record heat, this drive offers direct relief, boosting morale and practical worker welfare.

Official sources reported:

• Thousands of volunteers are already involved.
• Support includes nutrition, hydration, and heat kits for labourers.

For more about the campaign and ways to contribute, The National provides detailed coverage.

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Culture & Sport: Viral Performances and Historic Achievements

Dubai’s multicultural talent made worldwide waves again. A local boy went viral after a lively Bollywood dance at Oxford University, racking up views and sharing UAE pride. Meanwhile, Alex Eala made tennis history as the first Filipina to reach a WTA final, thrilling sports fans across the Gulf. Cricket’s new generation shined with debut centuries and dramatic international tournaments.

Highlights:

• Engaging performances keep UAE culture trending on social media.
• Sporting achievements inspire young athletes and unite communities. Opportunities for UAE Businesses from This Week’s News 1. Heatwave Adaptation and Service Innovation Record-breaking temperatures in Dubai and Al Ain signal opportunities for businesses to offer heat-mitigation products and services.
  Examples:
  • Retailers can promote cooling tech, shade solutions, and hydration products.
  • Food outlets and cafés might launch summer menus or home delivery to reduce outdoor exposure.
  • Transport companies can invest in vehicle cooling upgrades and staff training for extreme heat.
  2. Banking Clarity Empowers Cross-Border Business Emirates NBD’s remittance fee assurances reduce costs for SMEs sending money abroad.
  Opportunities:
  • Small businesses and freelancers can expand partnerships or operations in India, Pakistan, the Philippines, and Egypt without extra transfer costs.
  • Financial consultants and fintechs can develop guides or offer services to streamline overseas payments for local clients.
  3. E-Invoicing and Compliance-Tech Growth Upcoming e-invoicing rules prompt demand for digital compliance solutions.
  Actionable ideas:
  • Software providers and consultants could target training workshops or support for SMEs needing updated systems.
  • Accountants and business advisors can market e-invoicing audit services ahead of the 2026 deadline.
  4. Expanding the Success Path for Entrepreneurs Inspirational expat stories—like Dubai’s pizza delivery driver turned Amazon seller—prove the UAE’s supportive environment for new ventures.
  Opportunities:
  • Business mentors and agencies can offer starter workshops, market entry packages, or networking events for aspiring entrepreneurs.
  • E-commerce solutions and logistics providers can pitch services aimed at first-time online retailers.
  5. Food and Hospitality: Leveraging Royal Recognition Sheikh Hamdan’s restaurant visit highlights can boost venues that receive celebrity or royal attention.
  For businesses:
  • Restaurants can promote any high-profile visits or positive press in their marketing.
  • Hospitality PR companies can offer packages to help eateries attract influencer or VIP visits.
  6. Community Campaigns and Corporate Social Responsibility The ‘Al Freej Fridge’ drive demonstrates the value of worker welfare.
  Opportunities:
  • Firms may join or sponsor existing summer relief campaigns for positive PR.
  • HR and wellness businesses can design heat-safety programmes for outdoor staff.
  7. Health Awareness as a Service The spotlight on Salman Khan’s condition and UAE doctors’ advice reveal a growing public need for health information.
  For businesses:
  • Health providers and clinics can promote preventative check-ups or workplace health talks.
  • Wellness product companies might focus on stress and headache relief solutions for busy professionals.
  8. Ride the Wave of Expats’ Achievements High-profile business wins and lottery successes inspire fresh arrivals and veteran expats.
  Opportunities:
  • Community groups, coworking spaces, and business coaches can organise networking sessions, workshops, or success-story events to engage the expat community.
  9. Travel Industry: Flexible Services for Changed Schedules Flight suspensions and resumptions challenge both business and leisure travellers.
  For business:
  • Travel agencies and insurance providers can market flexible packages or short-notice booking guarantees.
  Summary:
  Today’s news offers UAE businesses practical ways to innovate, support their communities, improve compliance, and boost customer confidence—seizing change as a chance for growth.

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FAQ: UAE News, Business & Lifestyle Updates (2025)

1. How does record heat and rare rain in Al Ain affect residents and workers?
Extreme weather impacts commute times, work hours, and energy use. Listen for local radio or check official government updates for safety guidance.

2. Are there new charges for remittance transfers from Emirates NBD to India, Pakistan, the Philippines, or Egypt in 2025?
No. Emirates NBD clearly stated there are no extra fees for sending money to these countries, keeping international transfers affordable for expats.

3. What should UAE business owners do to prepare for 2026 e-invoicing requirements?
Begin upgrading your invoicing and record-keeping systems early. Seek software that meets UAE compliance standards and train your accounting team now.

4. How did a Dubai pizza delivery worker become a successful Amazon seller?
By building trust with customers, leveraging reviews, automating logistics, and learning UAE market needs, this expat turned a small start into a seven-figure business.

5. How did Sheikh Hamdan surprise diners at Dubai Mall, and which restaurants are inspired by his visits?
He paid everyone’s bill as a public gesture. Popular venues, including La Maison Ani and Gigi 2.0, have gained attention from royal visits and local news.

6. What is the ‘Al Freej Fridge’ campaign and how does it support workers in Dubai’s heat?
This campaign gives out free ice creams and drinks to labourers during the summer, organised by local volunteers and sponsors to boost worker well-being.

7. What health warnings have UAE doctors issued after Salman Khan’s brain condition news?
Doctors urge residents not to ignore persistent headaches. Regular check-ups can help detect serious conditions early, especially for those with ongoing symptoms.

8. How are expats in the UAE winning big in business and lotteries?
Recent news features expats starting successful businesses and landing major lottery prizes, showing the UAE remains a place of opportunity for newcomers.

9. How will Emirates Airlines’ latest flight changes affect travel this summer?
With suspensions to Iran and upcoming resumption of flights to Iraq, travellers should check bookings often, stay flexible, and follow airline updates.

10. Where can I find trusted, up-to-date UAE news for expats and business owners?
Sites like UAEThrive.com and leading news outlets provide reliable updates on business, lifestyle, and regulation changes across the Emirates.

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Conclusion

The UAE’s fast-moving story this week puts opportunity, community, and resilience at centre stage. Whether you’re seeking business growth, staying up to date with weather and health alerts, or just looking for your next dining adventure, these updates give you the tools to thrive.

Tap into the power of the UAEThrive.com business directory for the latest listings, trusted services, and networking. For a deeper dive, grab our new downloadable guide:

2025 Expat & Resident Guide: How to Thrive in the UAE
Includes community resources, business trends, safety checklists, and insider tips for seizing every opportunity in this dynamic region.

Stay tuned, stay empowered—your next big move in the UAE is just around the corner.