The Dubai PropTech Hub, an initiative of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), in partnership with Dubai Land Department, has released a new white paper titled PropTech 2033, outlining the future growth trajectory of the emirate’s PropTech sector.

The report analyses 18 strategic agendas from the UAE and the United Nations to map the next phase of PropTech development in Dubai. These include the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, the Dubai Real Estate Strategy 2033 and the Dubai Urban Master Plan 2040.

Taking into account economic, social and environmental sustainability considerations, the analysis identified 833 global PropTech business models focused on improving quality of life and driving economic growth in the real estate sector. The study also found that just two of these business models alone could generate more than AED53bn annually for Dubai’s economy.

The white paper highlights a structural shift in the global built environment, noting that PropTech is evolving beyond digital tools toward AI-native, system-level urban infrastructure that integrates planning, operations, sustainability and user experience. According to the report, this transformation is redefining how value is created across the real estate ecosystem.

The research concludes that Dubai is well positioned to lead this next phase of urban innovation, supported by its strategic policy frameworks, regulatory environment, technological ambition and global economic vision.

As part of the initiative, the Dubai PropTech Hub has opened applications for its inaugural “Global Landing Pad” programme, designed to help international PropTech scale-ups expand into Dubai and the wider Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA) region. The programme will connect participants with mentors and industry experts, including leading developers and operators such as Binghatti, Majid Al Futtaim, Union Properties, Sobha and Transguard Group.

Mohammad AlBlooshi, chief executive officer of DIFC Innovation Hub commented: “DIFC’s PropTech 2033 whitepaper demonstrates that PropTech is no longer a peripheral enabler of real estate, but an engine of economic growth, productivity, and urban resilience. This whitepaper reinforces DIFC’s commitment to positioning Dubai as the global epicentre for PropTech innovation and sustainable urban growth, whilst accelerating the Emirate’s ambitions of doubling the economic contribution of the sector by 2033.”

Majid Al Marri, CEO of the Real Estate Registration Sector at Dubai Land Department, said: “The PropTech 2033 white paper reaffirms Dubai’s commitment to future-proofing its real estate sector through innovation, data, and advanced technologies that strengthen transparency and investor confidence. This direction is reflected in the Dubai PropTech Hub, established in partnership between Dubai International Financial Centre and Dubai Land Department, and reinforced by hosting PropTech Connect Middle East. Together, these initiatives advance the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and the Dubai Real Estate Strategy 2033, enhancing global competitiveness and ensuring the long-term sustainability of Dubai’s real estate ecosystem.”

Based at the DIFC Innovation Hub, the Dubai PropTech Hub currently tracks 231 UAE-based PropTech companies, with strong activity in listings, investment and marketing platforms. The report highlights significant opportunities to expand into areas such as climate resilience, productivity enhancement and AI-driven property operations.

Dubai’s PropTech ambitions are also aligned with the expansion of DIFC into the Zabeel District, which will include more than one million square feet dedicated to innovation, including what is expected to become the world’s largest innovation hub and the first purpose-built AI Campus. The expansion forms part of Dubai’s strategy to position itself among the world’s top four global financial centres under the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), while incorporating sustainable infrastructure, energy-efficient design and smart mobility systems.

Gold prices fell on Thursday, weighed down by a firmer US dollar and waning hopes for near‑term US interest‑rate cuts as higher energy prices stoked inflation concerns.

Spot gold was down 0.4 per cent at $5,153.79 per ounce as of 0545 GMT. US gold futures for April delivery fell 0.4 per cent to $5,159.20.

The US dollar firmed 0.2 per cent, making dollar-priced bullion more expensive for holders of other currencies.

“I think the USD strength and interrelated rates story is a slight headwind for gold despite the actual violence that’s taking place, which is otherwise supportive of gold,” said Nicholas Frappell, global head of institutional markets at ABC Refinery.

Iran said the world should brace for $200-a-barrel oil after its forces struck merchant ships on Wednesday, while the International Energy Agency urged a massive release of strategic reserves to blunt one of the worst oil shocks since the 1970s.

Oil prices rose over $100 a barrel, adding to inflation pressures, as Iran stepped up attacks on oil and transport facilities across the Middle East.

Iran has deployed about a dozen mines in the strait, according to sources, a move that could complicate efforts to reopen the narrow waterway, a key route for global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments.

Tankers in the strait have been stranded for more than a week, and producers have suspended output as storage nears capacity.

Goldman Sachs has delayed its forecast for US Federal Reserve rate cuts, and now expects quarter-point reductions in September and December, citing rising inflation risks linked to the Middle East conflict.

In economic data, the US consumer price index rose 0.3 per cent in February, matching forecasts and accelerating from January’s 0.2 per cent increase. CPI rose 2.4 per cent in the year to February, also in line with expectations.

Investors are now awaiting the release of January’s delayed Personal Consumption Expenditures index on Friday.

Spot silver fell 0.5 per cent to $85.33 per ounce. Spot platinum lost 0.3 per cent to $2,162.24, while palladium rose 0.3 per cent to $1,642.05.

For most people, conflict feels distant. It appears in headlines but rarely seems connected to daily life. But nowadays, geopolitical tensions rarely remain confined to the battlefield. Their consequences can quickly affect travel, supply chains, financial transactions, and commercial relationships worldwide.

Beyond the immediate disruptions to travel and shipping, legal implications tend to be forgotten. During stable periods, contracts and legal provisions may appear as routine formalities. But in times of geopolitical disruption, contracts become part of global infrastructure.

They determine responsibility, financial exposure, and legal certainty across borders. Therefore, understanding this legal dimension is increasingly relevant for residents, travellers, and businesses operating in the UAE.

What travellers need to know if airspace closes

When geopolitical tensions escalate, one of the first effects is airspace closures and flight restrictions. Practical questions quickly follow. Who arranges alternative routes? Can airline tickets be refunded? Does travel insurance cover disruptions linked to geopolitical events? What happens if someone cannot return home on schedule?

In most cases, the first point of contact is the airline or travel operator.

Major international carriers typically rebook passengers or offer alternative routes during major disruptions. However, when cancellations result from extraordinary circumstances beyond the airline’s control, such as armed conflict or government restrictions, compensation obligations may be limited.

Embassies and consulates can assist citizens who face travel difficulties abroad. Their role is generally to provide information, documentation, or guidance rather than financial support.

What about insurance?

Many travel insurance policies exclude war, civil unrest, or geopolitical events. Lower-cost policies often provide the least protection during crises. Travellers can reduce risk by reviewing coverage before departure, keeping digital copies of passports and visas.

What businesses must know?

Geopolitical crises can disrupt transport routes, delay logistics, complicate financial transactions, and trigger sanctions or export restrictions with little warning.

When this happens, the legal structure of contracts becomes crucial. Companies operating internationally rely on agreements governing supply chains, financing arrangements, logistics, and partnerships across multiple jurisdictions.

While these contracts function quietly during normal conditions, geopolitical disruptions can quickly challenge the assumptions on which they were built. When disruption occurs, the resilience of these agreements becomes a key factor determining how quickly businesses can adapt.

The application of force majeure in a crisis

During instability, the force majeure clause addresses extraordinary events beyond the control of the parties, such as natural disasters, government actions, or armed conflict. Its effectiveness depends on how the clause is drafted. Some contracts clearly define qualifying events and the consequences if they occur.

Others contain vague language that requires interpretation or negotiation. Well-structured clauses specify which events qualify, how quickly notice must be given, how long obligations may be suspended, and what happens if the contract cannot be fulfilled. Without such clarity, companies may face significant legal uncertainty.

Business insurance

Insurance is another area businesses often overlook. Standard property or cargo policies frequently exclude conflict-related risks unless additional coverage is purchased. Companies involved in international logistics or operating near regions of geopolitical instability should review whether their policies include these protections.

Sanctions and regulatory compliance

Rising geopolitical tensions can also trigger sanctions on specific individuals, companies, or sectors. Businesses may unintentionally become involved in transactions linked to sanctioned entities.

Financial institutions, which must comply with strict international regulations, often increase compliance checks.

Payments may be delayed while banks request additional documentation. Simple compliance measures, such as screening counterparties against publicly available sanctions lists, can significantly reduce these risks.

Legal infrastructure

Over the past decade, the UAE has invested heavily in building a modern legal and regulatory framework. The country has strengthened corporate legislation, developed international arbitration centres, and established transparent systems that support global commerce.

This legal stability becomes particularly valuable during periods of geopolitical tension. Investors and entrepreneurs naturally seek jurisdictions where contracts are respected, dispute resolution mechanisms function efficiently, and legal systems remain predictable even during global disruptions.

The UAE has also demonstrated strong institutional coordination during past crises. During the pandemic and other disruptions to international travel, airlines, hotels, and government authorities worked together to assist stranded travellers. Hotels provided temporary accommodation, while authorities coordinated with diplomatic missions to facilitate safe travel when possible.

While conflicts cannot always be predicted, their legal consequences can often be anticipated. To ensure individuals and businesses alike benefit from the utmost protection in the event of an incident, they must understand that legal documents are tools designed to manage uncertainty. In a world where geopolitical shocks increasingly affect commerce, legal infrastructure becomes as important as financial or technological infrastructure.

Contracts, regulatory systems, and dispute resolution mechanisms are now part of the architecture that allows global trade and investment to function even during periods of instability.

The writer is the founder and CEO of Legaline.

UPDATE: The company announced opening up a further 50,000 complimentary memberships, bringing the total to 100,000.

Dubai-founded lifestyle platform the ENTERTAINER has launched a new community initiative aimed at supporting residents and local hospitality businesses across the UAE.

The campaign, titled “Our Home. Our Heart.”, will see the company make up to 100,000 complimentary ENTERTAINER One Heart memberships available through its official channels. The memberships will give residents access to a wide range of “buy one, get one free” offers across participating merchants in dining, leisure, wellness, hotel stays and services.

The initiative comes as communities across the UAE continue to navigate a dynamic environment, with the programme designed to encourage engagement with local businesses while supporting the wider hospitality ecosystem.

For more than 25 years, the ENTERTAINER has operated alongside the UAE’s hospitality sector, partnering with restaurants, leisure venues and service providers across the country.

“At times like these, the strength of the UAE community becomes particularly evident,” said Donna Benton, founder and CEO of the ENTERTAINER. “For 25 years the UAE has been our home, and this initiative reflects our continued commitment to the people and businesses that have been part of our journey.”

Through the programme, residents will be able to explore and support venues across the UAE using the complimentary membership offers. The company emphasised that participation should always follow official UAE government guidance and any applicable safety measures.

“Supporting local businesses ultimately means supporting the people behind them – the entrepreneurs, hospitality professionals, and the teams who make this country come alive every day,” Benton added. “In moments like these, community matters more than ever.”

Emirates Skywards joins the initiative

The initiative is also supported by Emirates Skywards, which is offering participants the chance to win a share of up to 2.5 million Skywards Miles.

Residents who claim the complimentary ENTERTAINER One Heart membership and are Emirates Skywards members during the campaign period will be eligible to enter a prize draw scheduled for 30 April 2026. Twenty-five winners will each receive 100,000 Skywards Miles.

Dr Nejib Ben Khedher, divisional senior vice president Skywards, said: “With 25 years of rewarding our communities, Emirates Skywards is delighted to collaborate with the ENTERTAINER – as two homegrown UAE brands that share a deep appreciation for this city. At times like these, it is more important than ever to come together with our partners, members and the wider UAE community, supporting the businesses and experiences that make this country so vibrant.”

Further details about the initiative, including the terms and conditions for the prize draw, will be available through the ENTERTAINER’s official channels.

Escalating tensions in the Middle East are sending shockwaves through the global aviation industry, forcing airlines to reroute flights, pushing ticket prices sharply higher and prompting governments to introduce emergency visa measures for stranded travellers.

Airspace closures and safety advisories across parts of the region have forced carriers to redraw flight paths that traditionally pass through some of the world’s busiest aviation corridors linking Europe, Asia and Africa.

For airlines, the changes have triggered a chain reaction of logistical challenges, longer flight times, higher fuel consumption and tighter aircraft availability.

Read more-Airlines raise fares as Middle East conflict lifts fuel costs, disrupts flights

“Commercial aviation depends heavily on predictable air corridors,” said aviation analysts tracking the disruption. “When those corridors suddenly become unavailable, the entire network has to adapt.”

Flights that once crossed the Middle East directly are now detouring around sensitive airspace, adding significant distance to already long-haul journeys.

Private aviation demand surges across the Gulf

While commercial airlines grapple with rerouting challenges, the private aviation sector is experiencing a surge in demand.

According to industry executives, clients seeking flexibility and schedule certainty are increasingly turning to charter flights.

“Since the situation in the region escalated and airspace closures came into effect, we have seen a dramatic surge in demand for private charter across the Middle East,” said Nader Al Hakim, charter sales at ExecuJet Middle East.

“This spike in demand, combined with reduced aircraft availability, longer routing requirements to avoid high-risk zones, rising fuel costs, and significantly higher insurance premiums for regional operations, has resulted in a sharp increase in charter prices,” he said.

Private jet operators say the current market dynamics have significantly tightened supply.

Aircraft must now navigate longer routes to avoid restricted airspace, while insurers have raised premiums for operations in sensitive areas.

“These are market realities we have been transparent about with our clients,” Al Hakim added.

Operational challenges multiply for aviation companies

The rapidly evolving regional situation has also made day-to-day operations more complex for aviation companies.

Private aviation firms report challenges ranging from repositioning aircraft and crew to navigating shifting insurance requirements.

“Day-to-day operations have become considerably more complex,” Al Hakim said.

“Our teams are managing longer flight routings to circumvent restricted airspace, coordinating the safe repositioning of crew from high-risk areas, and navigating insurance terms and premiums that are shifting frequently in response to the evolving regional landscape.”

The disruption has also increased demand for aircraft parking and storage.

“We have also seen heightened demand for hangarage as a result of the current environment,” he added.

At the same time, airports across the region have been adjusting operations to accommodate the changing situation.

“From an operational standpoint, one of our immediate challenges was slot availability, as airport operations in Dubai were temporarily constrained,” Al Hakim said. “We are pleased to say that the situation has been improving steadily over the past few days, and we currently have both of our facilities fully operational.”

Despite the operational strain, he said the company continues to prioritise service reliability.

“Private aviation exists precisely to offer flexibility and reliability when it matters most, and our teams are working around the clock to ensure we continue to deliver that, even in the most challenging environments.”

Ticket prices climb as airlines reroute and fuel costs rise

The disruption is also being felt by commercial airline passengers.

Industry analysts estimate that ticket prices on several affected routes have risen between 10 per cent and 25 per cent since the escalation of tensions.

“Ticket prices have risen by approximately 10–25 per cent on affected routes since tensions escalated, driven by rerouting surcharges and reduced capacity as airlines avoid Middle East hubs,” said Alena Iakina, founder of visarun.ai.

Long-haul flights linking Gulf hubs with Europe and North America have seen some of the sharpest increases.

“Fewer discounted seats are available as airlines focus on revenue recovery during the disruption period,” she said.

Rising fuel prices are also contributing to the increase.

“Jet fuel accounts for 20–30 per cent of airline operating costs,” Iakina said. “Rising oil prices driven by Gulf supply fears and risks around the Strait of Hormuz are pushing those costs higher.”

Airlines are absorbing part of the increase, she added, but much of the additional cost is passed on to passengers through higher fares and fuel surcharges.

Governments introduce visa extensions for stranded travellers

As flight disruptions ripple across the region, several Gulf countries have introduced temporary visa measures to assist travellers unable to depart because of cancelled or delayed flights.

“Yes, several Gulf countries have introduced automatic visa extensions and overstay waivers for stranded travellers,” Iakina said.

Qatar’s Interior Ministry has extended all entry visas by one month at no cost, while authorities in the UAE have issued more than 15,000 emergency entry visas to affected passengers.

Kuwait has also waived overstay fines for travellers who were unable to leave due to flight disruptions.

“These rules apply to visitors who cannot leave because of cancellations, although older overstays may still face penalties,” Iakina said, adding that further extensions remain possible if the disruption continues.

Airlines roll out flexible policies and refunds

Airlines have also introduced flexible booking policies to help passengers cope with the uncertainty.

Several major carriers are allowing travellers to rebook flights without penalties or request refunds for affected journeys.

For example, Emirates has offered free rebooking until March 20 for tickets issued on or before March 5, with full refunds available for affected departures.

Qatar Airways is providing fee-free rebooking within 14 days of the original travel date for certain bookings, while Etihad Airways has issued waivers allowing passengers to change affected flights departing from Abu Dhabi.

Other international carriers, including Turkish Airlines, Lufthansa and United Airlines, have also introduced similar measures.

Travel experts say passengers should check directly with their airlines, as deadlines and conditions are frequently updated.

Travellers change how they plan trips

The uncertainty surrounding flight disruptions has also begun to reshape travel behaviour.

Many travellers are now prioritising flexibility over price, opting for refundable tickets or insurance add-ons that allow cancellations. “Uncertainty has shifted planning toward flexible, refundable tickets and multi-hub itineraries to avoid single-point failures,” Iakina said.

Travellers are also building additional buffers into their travel schedules. “Many people are allowing two to three extra days between connections to account for possible delays or cancellations,” she added.

Corporate travel has also been affected, with many companies postponing non-essential trips until the regional situation stabilises.

Meanwhile, leisure travellers are increasingly purchasing “cancel for any reason” insurance coverage, even though such policies often carry additional costs and limitations.

Global travel faces a period of uncertainty

Despite the disruptions, aviation experts stress that global travel networks remain operational, though under increased strain.

Airlines, airports and governments are continuing to adapt to the evolving situation while prioritising safety. For travellers, however, the rapidly shifting aviation landscape means one thing: planning a journey now requires more flexibility than ever before.

With rerouted flights, rising fares and shifting immigration policies, the turbulence triggered by regional tensions is being felt far beyond the Middle East, across the entire global travel system.