Dubai South launches digital-first freezone platform

FREEZONES-

Dubai South has launched a digital-first freezone platform — Dubai South Business Hub (DSHB) — designed to optimize business set-up processes for SMEs, entrepreneurs, and international firms, Dubai Media Office reports. The hub will offer online services to support set-up documentation and same-day licensing processes via a secure portal, as well as ones for visas, license renewals, and compliance.

Also on offer: Companies will have direct links to banks and government entities through the hub in the Dubai South Business Park. Corporate banking, accounting, family relocation, and VAT services will also be available.

LOGISTICS-

State-owned conglomerate 7X has rolled out a new national logistics network, National X Network (NXN), to streamline postal and logistics services in the Emirates, state news agency Wam reports. The network will provide delivery, storage, and fulfillment services to individuals and SMEs across the UAE. The conglomerate tapped its logistics platform Waslah serving as operational manager and Wayn, its digital PO Box, for address services.

The details: The network includes over 87 branches and more than 1k out-of-home pick-up and drop-off locations. NXN will also provide dark-store logistics solutions for e-commerce businesses and SMEs, as well as same-day and next-day delivery.

LOGISTICS-

DP World puts pen to paper for Montreal port expansion: The Montreal Port Authority and DP World Canada signed a joint development agreement covering the design and construction of land works at the planned container terminal in Canada’s Contrecœur, according to a statement. DP World will build the terminal yard, buildings, utilities, and rail link, and operate the facility for 40 years once completed.

BACKGROUND- DP World was last reported to be in advanced talks to take control of the USD 1.2 bn project, which is set to feature two berths, a 1.2 mn TEU container yard, and an intermodal link. The expansion is expected to raise Montreal’s handling capacity by 1.15 mn containers annually, with completion targeted for 2030.

Timeline: Construction is slated to start with site prep in 2025, followed by in-water works in 2026, land works in 2027, and commissioning by 2030.

REAL ESTATE-

Dubai-based developer Binghatti launched an AED 2 bn luxury residential tower — Binghatti Skyblade — in Downtown Dubai’s Burj Khalifa Boulevard, according to a press release. The tower will feature 621 units, including Royal suites, premium studios, and two- and three-bedroom Royal units with private pools.

ICYMI- Binghatti had recently spoken of plans for a new Downtown Dubai development. It also said it was looking to almost double its 90 mn sq ft portfolio of land with an 80 mn sq ft acquisition.