The United Arab Emirates has launched the first phase of its Research and Development Tax Incentives Programme, introducing cash grants of 30% to 50% for eligible R&D expenditure, effective from January 2026. The initiative is designed to strengthen the innovation ecosystem and support knowledge-led industries. At the same time, business council representatives under the Dubai Chamber of Commerce report sustained investor confidence, citing the emirate’s diversified economy, infrastructure and public-private collaboration. In the aviation sector, a new Painting and Grinding Center by Lufthansa Technik Middle East has been inaugurated at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub, further expanding maintenance and service capabilities.

Smart mobility, urban quality and innovation ecosystems in focus

Dubai has also launched the first phase of autonomous taxi services through partnerships with technology providers, with an initial fleet of 100 vehicles integrated into the transport network. In parallel, the city has retained its position as the world’s cleanest city for the sixth consecutive year, based on international rankings assessing urban quality. Further developments include the completion of the third cohort of the MIT DesignX Dubai Accelerator Program at Dubai Silicon Oasis, where selected startups presented solutions across technology and innovation sectors.