LOGISTICS-

#1- UAE gets a new trade link to China via Pakistan: Pakistan’s National Logistics Corporation (NLC) has launched a multimodal logistics route, dubbed Transports Internationalaux Routiers (TIR), linking the UAE to China via northern Pakistan’s Khunjerab Pass, Arab News reported on Saturday. NLC will use trucks to transport goods, which will depart from Kashgar in China to Karachi in Pakistan. Goods will then be transported from Karachi Port to Jebel Ali Port via a shipping service operated by the UAE’s DP World, according to a statement. The move looks to streamline cross-border trade through the implementation of an international customs transit framework throughout the route. Pakistan’s Khunjerb Pass links Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan region with China’s Xinjiang province.

#2- Omoda & Jaecoo opens in Jafza: Chinese vehicle manufacturer Omoda & Jaecoo launched its first regional parts distribution center in the UAE’s Jebel Ali Freezone (Jafza), marking a major step in its Middle East expansion, according to a statement. Spanning 12k sqm, it is the largest facility of its kind for Chinese automotive brands in the region, and is strategically located near Jebel Ali Port and Al Maktoum International Airport. The facility reduces the shipping cycle by 85%, down to nine days from 60. The investment ticket for the project has not been disclosed.

ENERGY-

Adnoc Distribution inked a five-year contract with Adnoc Gas Facilities to secure propane supplies through 2028, according to an ADX disclosure (pdf). The company also entered a five-year propane handling services agreement with Adnoc Gas Operations and Marketing, set to run until 31 August, 2029.

AVIATION-

Air Arabia adds new Russia flights: Sharjah-based budget airline Air Arabia launched two non-stop routes to the Russian cities of Moscow and Yekaterinburg, according to company statements (here and here). Flights will connect Ras Al Khaimah International Airport with Moscow Domodedovo three times weekly, and link Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport to Yekaterinburg’s Koltsovo three times weekly as well.

GOVERNANCE-

Maritime businesses will now be able to track their progress on ESG goals using a new tool launched by Abu Dhabi Mobility and AD Ports Group’s Abu Dhabi Maritime, according to a statement from the former.

How it works: The MARSDNA tool, developed by Maqta Technologies Group, allows businesses to fill in a free questionnaire on the Abu Dhabi Maritime website that assesses their ESG progress, and generates a report with recommended measures to accelerate their progress.

TRANSPORT-

#1- Abu Dhabi Mobility will introduce yellow license plates for commercial motorcycles, replacing the current red plates, Wam reports. The change, aimed at distinguishing commercial motorcycles from private ones, will take effect at the start of next year.

#2- South Korean road safety solutions firm Dareesoft launched its AI-powered surveillance system ARA in the UAE, aiming to partner with local authorities and organizations to deploy the system across the nation, according to a press release. The system uses advanced AI to scan roads in real-time and identify hazards like potholes, cracks, and debris.

RETAIL-

Lulu Retail expanded its footprint in KSA with two new express stores, located in Makkah’s Jabal Omar and Riyadh’s Sahara Mall, bringing its total store count in the country to 59, according to a statement (pdf) from the retail giant. Moreover, Lulu has additional store openings planned in its 2025 pipeline.

REMEMBER- Lulu Retail’s IPO raised AED 6.3 bn last month. The company said earlier this year it plans to open 90 stores across the Gulf over the next five years, focusing on the UAE and Saudi Arabia.

REAL ESTATE-

Filipino Homes to set up shop in Dubai: Philippines-based real estate agency Filipino Homes obtained a trade license to establish an office in Dubai, according to a company statement posted on Facebook. The move targets Filipino expats in the UAE interested in investing in real estate back home. The license will also allow the agency to host property expos, hold investment meetings, and provide office space for developers in Dubai.

HOSPITALITY-

Rotana set to deliver Somalia’s first five-star hotel: Abu Dhabi-based hotel management firm Rotana partnered with Riverside Holding to build Somalia’s first five-star hotel, Mogadishu Rotana, according to a statement from Rotana. The 321-key hotel is slated for completion in 2026 and will be managed by Dubai-based Aleph Hospitality. The project’s investment ticket was not disclosed.

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