UAEThrive Daily News Roundup: April 1st, 2025

Welcome to the UAEThrive Daily News Roundup — your essential summary of today’s most important developments in business, economy, society, and culture from across the United Arab Emirates. Here are the top 15 headline stories and 10 lifestyle updates from April 1st, 2025.

Table of Contents

Fuel Prices Drop for April

The UAE Fuel Price Committee has announced a decrease in prices for April 2025. Super 98 petrol is now AED 2.57 per litre, down from AED 2.73. Special 95 petrol is AED 2.46, and diesel has fallen to AED 2.68 per litre.

This shift reflects global crude trends and comes as a relief for residents, logistics providers, and commuters alike. You can check monthly updates on UAE fuel prices through trusted sources like GlobalPetrolPrices.com.

26 CEPA Trade Agreements

The UAE continues to bolster its trade portfolio by signing 26 new Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs). Recent signings include deals with Malaysia, New Zealand, Kenya, and Ukraine. These agreements aim to enhance trade flows, investment protection, and business collaboration across multiple sectors.

For UAE exporters and investors, these deals represent streamlined market access and reduced tariffs. Earlier CEPA success stories, such as the one with India, have shown significant upticks in bilateral trade. Learn more about CEPA on the Ministry of Economy.

NFL Explores UAE Game

The NFL is evaluating the possibility of staging a regular-season game in the UAE — potentially in Dubai or Abu Dhabi. This expansion aligns with the league’s international strategy and follows recent successful overseas games in London and Germany.

Hosting an NFL game would be a first for the Gulf and further position the UAE as a global sports hub, complementing events like the Formula 1 Grand Prix and the Dubai World Cup. Get official NFL updates at NFL International.

Gulf Nations Plan Rugby World Cup Bid

The UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar are exploring a joint bid to host either the 2035 or 2039 Rugby World Cup. This initiative aims to leverage their stadium infrastructure, event experience, and growing rugby fan base.

Dubai’s long-running success with the Rugby Sevens and Qatar’s FIFA World Cup hosting capabilities make the region a viable contender. Follow Rugby World Cup developments at World Rugby News.

Masdar Eyes IPO

Masdar, Abu Dhabi’s clean energy champion, is exploring an Initial Public Offering (IPO) either in Abu Dhabi or through a dual listing with New York. Proceeds would support renewable energy investments in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

Recent acquisitions include solar portfolios in Spain and Greece. For more about Masdar’s green projects, visit Masdar’s official site.

UAE Pledges $1.4 Trillion in the U.S.

The UAE has committed to invest $1.4 trillion in the U.S. over the next decade, focusing on high-growth areas such as artificial intelligence, manufacturing, and clean energy.

This partnership underscores the UAE’s strategy to gain access to advanced tech ecosystems and diversify away from oil. Read more via Bloomberg.

15% Minimum Tax on Multinationals

The UAE will introduce a 15% minimum top-up tax on large multinationals starting January 2025. This aligns with the OECD’s global framework for fair taxation and aims to reduce base erosion and profit shifting.

For guidance, visit the UAE Ministry of Finance.

Ondas Drone Infrastructure Deal

Ondas Holdings has secured a $3.2 million contract to expand drone infrastructure in the UAE. This supports the deployment of the Optimus drone system for industrial, emergency, and surveillance applications.

Discover more UAE smart tech developments in our Technology blog.

UAE–US Data Center Power Projects

Abu Dhabi’s ADQ and U.S.-based Energy Capital Partners plan to invest over $25 billion in infrastructure to power energy-intensive AI data centers.

This move reinforces the UAE’s leadership in digital innovation. Read more from Reuters Technology.

Dubai’s Rising Living Costs

Dubai continues to see an uptick in living expenses due to rising rents and a growing expat population. Many middle-income professionals are feeling the squeeze as salaries remain largely unchanged.

Explore budget-friendly tips and neighbourhood comparisons in the Lifestyle section of UAE Thrive.

UAE’s AI Investments Surge

With a goal of becoming a global AI hub, the UAE is investing billions in artificial intelligence infrastructure, talent, and partnerships — including its U.S. investment pledge.

AI is expected to contribute over 14% to UAE GDP by 2030. More on this at World Economic Forum.

Masdar Acquires EU Renewable Assets

Masdar has secured significant stakes in Endesa’s Spanish solar projects and Greece’s Terna Energy, advancing its global clean energy ambitions.

More green investment news can be found on UAE Thrive’s Environment blog.

UAE–India CEPA Boosts Trade

The CEPA with India has resulted in a 20.5% increase in non-oil trade, and UAE exports to India grew by 75% by the end of 2024.

Check business opportunities on our SEO Services for UAE Businesses tag.

New UAE Personal Status Law

The UAE’s revised Personal Status Law came into effect this month, modernising family laws and inheritance systems to align with global norms.

Stay updated via the Education blog.

ADGM Introduces New Employment Rules

The Abu Dhabi Global Market has unveiled new employment regulations improving worker rights and aligning with international standards. These reforms strengthen the UAE’s appeal for foreign talent and business.

Everyday Culture & Lifestyle Highlights

Eid Al-Fitr Celebrations: The UAE concluded Eid Al-Fitr festivities on March 30, with family events and public holidays running through April 1. Check our Events page for upcoming festivals.

Wellness & Family Fun: Dubai’s wellness retreats and kid-friendly activities are gaining attention. Visit our blog for recommendations.

Heart of Sharjah: A cultural restoration project is nearly complete, bringing 1950s heritage back to life. Read more on HeartOfSharjah.ae.

BAPS Hindu Mandir: Abu Dhabi’s iconic Hindu temple nears its grand opening, symbolising cultural harmony. Learn more at Mandir.ae.

Dubai’s First All-Female Rescue Team: 16 women make history as Dubai Police launch an all-female land rescue unit, showing real progress in gender diversity.

Schools Impact Real Estate: The presence of international schools is driving housing demand. Explore family-friendly areas on UAE Thrive.

Lindsay Lohan on Dubai Life: The actress praised Dubai’s peaceful vibe and creative space in a recent interview. Catch lifestyle stories in our Lifestyle section.

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