AGP Executive Report

Strait of Hormuz Tensions: The US reimposed a naval blockade on Iran and stepped up airstrikes after attacks on ships near the Strait of Hormuz, with Iran reporting strikes hitting targets including a barracks and warning the region could slide back into all-out war. UAE Security Response: The UAE Ministry of Defence said two Ukrainians were injured in Iran’s July 14 attacks on the tankers Mombasa and Al-Bahyah, killing one Indian crew member, and reiterated the attack was a serious breach of international law. Humanitarian & Community: Abu Dhabi Police urged parents to closely supervise children around swimming pools as part of its Safe Summer campaign, while UAE launched a Global Youth Water Envoys programme ahead of UN Water Conference activities in Abu Dhabi. Travel & Visas: Dubai’s GDRFA reported millions of visa and entry transactions in the first half of 2026, including strong demand for a five-year multiple-entry tourist visa. Business & Tech: Revolut received in-principle VARA approval to offer regulated crypto services in the UAE, and the US granted expanded access to AI chips for the UAE. Local Life: Rain fell in parts of the UAE, and Abu Dhabi and Dubai continued summer safety messaging as temperatures and travel peak.

UAE–Iran Tensions: The U.S. has reimposed a naval blockade on Iran and intensified airstrikes after attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz, with Iranian officials reporting heavy casualties and warnings that energy exports could be disrupted. Maritime Security & Trade: UAE-linked shipping remains in focus as authorities and partners push for resilience, including plans for a new port near Fujairah to reduce reliance on the Strait. Abu Dhabi Airport Status: Experience Abu Dhabi says Zayed International Airport is open and operating normally, with Etihad running an expanded schedule despite regional instability. AI in Policing: Dubai Police, with Microsoft, held a workshop to turn operational challenges into AI implementation plans. Green Shipping: Drydocks World completed a complex green ship recycling project, recovering over 20,000 tonnes of materials for reuse. Emiratisation & Jobs: MoHRE said more than 60,000 UAE citizens and 3,000 companies benefited from its career counselling programme. Local Courts: An Abu Dhabi court fined a social media influencer Dh81,000 for defaming a restaurant online. Business & Markets: DMCC and Botswana’s stock exchange signed an MoU to build a Dubai–Gaborone commodity trade corridor. Education Tech: Alef Education launched new AI classroom monitoring tools for teachers.

Strait of Hormuz Crisis: The U.S. reimposed its blockade of Iranian ports after Iran’s attacks on commercial shipping, as Washington and Tehran traded strikes again and the interim ceasefire deal unraveled. UAE Maritime Impact: The UAE confirmed Iranian cruise missiles hit two Emirati tankers (Mombasa and Al Bahyah), killing one Indian crew member and injuring eight others; ADNOC Logistics & Services said both vessels sustained significant damage. Diplomacy & Regional Response: UAE officials urged the strait be reopened through diplomatic and defensive means, while Jordan condemned the attack and expressed solidarity with the UAE and condolences to India. Shipping Diversion Plans: Gulf oil firms are accelerating plans to bypass Hormuz via pipelines and new ports to reduce exposure to the choke point. UAE Humanitarian Aid: Dubai sent 72.5 tonnes of Ebola response aid to Uganda, its fourth shipment this year. Local Life & Business: Emirates Skywards launched a Dubai Summer Surprises promotion offering chances to win 5 million Miles; Dubai Police kicked off a summer road-safety push. Finance: Dubai Islamic Bank reported H1 revenue up 10% on financing growth.

Strait of Hormuz Crisis: The UAE condemned Iranian cruise-missile attacks on two Emirati supertankers, Mombasa and Al Bahiyah, in Omani waters, killing one Indian seafarer and injuring eight others; the GCC and Qatar also denounced the strikes as dangerous escalation and a breach of international law. Diplomatic Fallout: India summoned Iran’s deputy envoy after the deaths and injuries, while the UAE said it is at the highest readiness and reserves the right to respond. Aviation Disruptions: EASA reinstated a tougher advisory urging airlines to avoid Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, the UAE and areas near the Gulf of Oman until July 29, as regional tensions keep routes and schedules unstable. Energy Security Moves: With Hormuz risk rising, Dubai is planning a new port to bypass the strait, and Masdar reached financial close on a major Abu Dhabi 5.2GW solar-plus-19GWh storage project aimed at round-the-clock power. UAE Life & Economy: The UAE launched a higher education award to foster a “culture of excellence,” while motorists were warned about fake online car insurance scams.

Hormuz Crisis Escalates: The UAE says Iran fired two cruise missiles at two UAE-flagged tankers, Mombasa and Al Bahiyah, in Omani waters in the Strait of Hormuz, killing one Indian crew member and injuring eight others; the UAE condemned the attack as a breach of international law and said it is on high alert. US-Iran Standoff: Hours earlier, the US announced fresh strikes on Iran after Trump said the Strait of Hormuz blockade is being reinstated and that ships may be charged a 20% “safe passage” fee, while Iran retaliated with attacks including on Bahrain. Energy Markets: Oil prices jumped above $80 a barrel as renewed fighting raised fears of disrupted shipping through the world’s key energy chokepoint. Gulf Business Pressure: Separately, the Financial Times reports Saudi banks have been blocking or delaying some payments to UAE accounts since mid-May, adding to concerns about a widening Saudi-UAE rift affecting trade and commerce. Abu Dhabi Renewables Push: Masdar secured financial close for a $6.1bn 24/7 solar-plus-battery project, backed by a $5.1bn bank consortium, aiming to deliver continuous clean power from 2027.

Strait of Hormuz Tensions: The US and Iran both claim control of the Strait of Hormuz after renewed attacks, with shipping traffic slowing and oil prices jumping as Gulf markets react to escalating hostilities. UAE Foreign Policy: The UAE strongly condemned renewed Iranian missile and drone attacks targeting Bahrain, Kuwait, and Jordan, warning they violate sovereignty and threaten regional stability. Gulf Business Pressure: Reports say Saudi banks have blocked or delayed payments to UAE accounts since mid-May, raising fresh concerns about a widening Saudi-UAE rift affecting trade and cashflow. Dubai Mobility Upgrade: Dubai Harbour parking has gone cashless, with fees paid automatically via Salik at Harbour West Car Park. SME Support Push: ADIB and Dubai DET launched a “SME in a Box” DET Connect Account to help Dubai SMEs open accounts digitally and access key business services faster. Abu Dhabi Women-Led SMEs: Abu Dhabi Businesswomen Council and Publicis Groupe Middle East relaunched Ra’idah for its second edition, offering an in-person academy and paid media funding for winners. Energy Markets: ADX expanded derivatives with six new stock futures, adding more tools for hedging across UAE sectors. Local Economy & Trade: Dubai diamond trade hit a record $41.7bn in 2025, underscoring the emirate’s continued pull for global precious-stone business. Health & Industry: Mubadala Bio launched locally manufactured haemodialysis solutions in the UAE, marking a first for local production. Sustainability: Tadweer Group wrapped up ECORUN’s second edition in Abu Dhabi with 740+ participants, linking community participation to circular economy goals.

Gulf Security: The US and Iran traded fresh missile and drone strikes as Iran again claimed the Strait of Hormuz was closed, while Washington insisted the waterway is open and “traffic is flowing,” with UAE air defences reporting engagements against incoming threats and oil prices jumping on renewed shipping risk. UAE Civil Protection: NCEMA said the missile threats detected this morning were outside UAE borders and that monitoring systems are on standby, with no current indications of concern. Regional Diplomacy: Egypt and other Arab states condemned Iran’s attacks, while UN chief Antonio Guterres urged an urgent halt to escalation. Local Business Impact: A Financial Times report says Saudi banks have blocked or delayed payments to UAE accounts since mid-May amid rising Gulf political tensions, despite Saudi central bank denials. Weather & Health: UAE residents were warned of foggy, humid nights and high temperatures, while UAE doctors cautioned football fans about common knee injuries. Business & Tech: AI12 appointed Alfie Langley as Head of Cyber for UAE/MEA/SEA expansion. Lifestyle: Palazzo Versace Dubai brings back limited-time offers for stays, dining and wellness from 13–20 July.

Gulf Security: The UAE said missile threats detected early Sunday were “outside the country’s borders,” as its air defences intercepted Iranian missiles and drones and Bahrain issued shelter warnings. Regional Diplomacy: The UAE, Egypt and Qatar all condemned renewed Iranian attacks on Gulf states, calling them violations of sovereignty and international law, while Qatar said it reserves the right to respond and temporarily suspended maritime departures. Hormuz Flashpoint: Iran announced the Strait of Hormuz was closed after US strikes tied to an attack on a vessel, with sirens and explosions reported across the region. UAE-Egypt Ties: UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed met Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi in El Alamein to discuss bilateral cooperation and efforts to prevent escalation. Business & Finance: A Financial Times report says Saudi banks have blocked or delayed some payments to UAE accounts since mid-May, raising concerns about a widening Gulf rift affecting cross-border commerce. Tech & Policy: The UAE Council for Artificial Intelligence and Blockchain launched the third UAE AI Award, pushing adoption of agentic AI across government. Humanitarian Aid: UAE aid convoys carrying 792 tonnes of supplies entered the Gaza Strip under Operation Chivalrous Knight 3.

Strait of Hormuz Tensions: Iran says the Strait of Hormuz is closed again after a vessel was hit for taking an “unauthorized route,” while the U.S. says it has launched strikes in response, raising fresh uncertainty for regional talks. UAE Diplomacy: Qatar’s Prime Minister spoke by phone with UAE officials, stressing dialogue and implementing the U.S.-Iran memorandum, including freedom of navigation through Hormuz. Gaza Aid Coordination: UN officials visited the UAE field hospital in Gaza to review services and improve coordination as medical needs grow. UAE-US Tech Access: The U.S. eased export rules for the UAE, placing it in a top export category that can streamline access to certain advanced technologies and defence-related items. Flydubai to Aleppo: Flydubai will resume daily flights to Aleppo from 20 July, restarting a route suspended for more than 14 years. Longevity Education: Thumbay signed an MoU with Switzerland’s Geneva College of Longevity Science to launch structured longevity medicine programmes in the UAE. Cyber Safety Reminder: Dubai Police warned residents to avoid untrusted apps that can lead to phone hacking and banking fraud.

Gulf Finance Tensions: Financial Times reports Saudi banks have been blocking or delaying payments to UAE accounts since mid-May, despite Riyadh’s central bank denying direct country restrictions—raising fresh concerns about a widening Saudi-UAE rift. UAE-US Tech & Defence Boost: The US Commerce Department “significantly upgrades” the UAE’s export status, moving it to a group that allows broader, license-free access to some military items, commercial satellites and advanced tech, including AI chips. Abu Dhabi AV Oversight: Abu Dhabi Mobility and the Integrated Transport Centre launch a central control room to monitor autonomous vehicle operations in real time, aiming to tighten safety and regulation as self-driving services expand. Health Partnership: Dubai Health signs a collaboration with Rush University System for Health to improve quality of care, patient safety, research and training. Consular Update for Indians: India ends outsourced consular services in the UAE; passport, visa and attestation appointments can now be booked directly with the Indian Embassy/Consulate for free. Sports Governance: Dubai Sports Council and UAE Basketball Association roll out coach accreditation via the “Mu’Ahal” programme to standardise compliance and governance across the season.

U.S.-Iran Pressure on the Gulf: Washington demanded Iran make a public pledge that the Strait of Hormuz is open and ships won’t be attacked, as Trump said the June ceasefire is “OVER” while talks continue. Sanctions and UAE in the spotlight: The U.S. Treasury sanctioned a Dubai-based Iranian financier, Ali Ansari, and targeted Iranian “shadow exchange” houses, while Iran accused the UAE of supporting U.S.-Israeli strikes and warned Abu Dhabi faces consequences. Tech and trade shift for the UAE: The U.S. loosened export controls, making it easier for UAE firms to access advanced AI chips, military items and satellites—boosting players like G42/Core42. Energy and LNG push: ADNOC launched an integrated LNG marketing and trading platform targeting 47 million tonnes per annum by 2035. Local life and safety: A UAE study found over 80% of residents are considering seafront/marina living; authorities also listed key safety checks before long trips. Business and travel: Dubai Customs prepared for peak summer travellers, and a new flight links Tashkent and Abu Dhabi.

UAE-Iran Tensions: The US ended airstrikes on Iran, but new unclaimed strikes hit southern Iran as the region braces for escalation, with sirens reported across Gulf states including Bahrain, Kuwait and Qatar. Telecom Deal: Abu Dhabi’s e& agreed to sell its full Vodafone stake in a roughly $5.95bn deal, with French tycoon Xavier Niel’s family vehicle set to become Vodafone’s top shareholder. Markets: UAE stocks rebounded as E& surged on the Vodafone news; Emirates Global Aluminium also restarted feedstock production at Al Taweelah. Transport & Mobility: Abu Dhabi launched a central control room to oversee autonomous vehicle operations; Dubai’s Palm Monorail reopened after six months of maintenance; RTA announced temporary traffic diversions. Aviation & Travel: flydubai resumes flights to Aleppo with a daily service from July 20; Emirates will bring its A380 to Delhi from Oct 25 and expand Premium Economy across Indian cities. Business & Development: Ajman Bank opened a new corporate office in Dubai; Emrill opened a central warehouse in Ras Al Khor; Aldar unveiled Yas Point, a Dh6bn waterfront destination on Yas Island. Health & Society: Dubai Health and Rush University System for Health signed a strategic collaboration to improve care quality; UAE doctors warn screens and less outdoor time are worsening childhood eyesight issues.

Gulf Security: UAE officials urged GCC unity after Iran renewed attacks across the region, as the US and Iran traded strikes and the fragile ceasefire faced fresh strain. UAE Diplomacy: The UAE welcomed US steps to start removing Syria from the State Sponsors of Terrorism list, while also condemning terrorist cells in Syria and reaffirming support for security and stability. Regional Ties: Sharjah Police met an ICP delegation to boost joint security work; the UAE and Uzbekistan held their first round of consular consultations to strengthen services for citizens. Business & Travel: Etihad will add Harare flights from March 2027 and codeshare with Fastjet Zimbabwe; Remitly secured a Stored Value Facilities licence from the Central Bank of the UAE. Innovation & Tech: Abu Dhabi is advancing an integrated life sciences innovation model with global partners; UAE universities are teaming up to launch an AI Lab initiative; the UAE launched a satellite mission to improve global navigation accuracy. Aviation & Cities: Dubai is pushing ahead with eVTOL air taxi infrastructure after regulatory certification of its vertiport, and is exploring SAF production from organic waste. Culture & Youth: Sheikh Mohammed congratulated the UAE champion of the 10th Arab Reading Challenge, highlighting record participation.

UAE Industry & Innovation: Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan toured the Salem Al Shuaibi Gold & Jewellery Factory at KEZAD in Abu Dhabi, highlighting advanced production lines, design and finishing, quality labs and smart manufacturing systems. Digital Safety for Kids: YouTube rolled out supervised kid accounts across MENA, including the UAE, giving parents stronger controls and age-appropriate settings as the region tightens rules on children’s social media use. Regional Diplomacy: Qatar’s prime minister and foreign minister spoke by phone with the UAE’s deputy PM and foreign minister, condemning attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz and urging dialogue under the MoU framework. UAE Investment Spotlight: The UAE hit record inbound FDI of $48.3bn (AED 177.3bn) in 2025, ranking 9th globally, with the government pointing to National Investment Strategy 2031 targets. Dubai Economy & Tech: Dubai’s Q1 2026 GDP reached AED 232bn (+2.4%), while Digital Dubai and Emirates Group signed a deal to boost digital readiness and employee experience. Cyber Fraud Push: UAE authorities held a workshop in Abu Dhabi to shape a national strategy against cyber fraud, strengthening coordination and response across agencies. UFC Abu Dhabi: UFC Fight Night: Ankalaev vs Rountree Jr. added two more bouts for July 25 at Etihad Arena.

UAE–Iran Tensions: The UAE strongly condemned Iran’s attack on the Saudi-flagged crude tanker Wedyan in the Strait of Hormuz, calling it a grave threat to navigation and an escalation that violates UN rules, as the US carried out fresh strikes on Iran and missile alerts sounded across Bahrain and Qatar. Dubai Economy: Dubai’s GDP rose to Dh232bn in Q1 2026, up 2.4% year-on-year, with growth led by health and social work, finance, and real estate despite regional shocks. Abu Dhabi T10: Abu Dhabi Cricket & Sports Hub opened the invitation-to-bid for team and franchise ownership in the Abu Dhabi T10, with Deloitte overseeing the integrity-focused evaluation. Trade & IP: The UAE logged 17,217 trademarks in H1 2026 after joining the Locarno Agreement, boosting its intellectual property framework. Gold Watch: Dubai gold held steady as renewed regional hostilities kept markets cautious. Aviation Alert: A K2 Airways Boeing 737 cargo plane carrying five crew vanished near Karachi after a reported navigation issue, with search efforts ongoing. Business & Tech: Fastjet expanded its Africa reach via partnerships with Euroairlines and Etihad, while ASUS launched new ROG gaming laptops in the UAE.

UAE-Middle East Security: The US launched new strikes on Iran after attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz, with Trump saying the ceasefire is “over” while talks can continue—raising fresh oil-shipping and regional stability fears. Aviation Watch: Pakistan is running a major search for a K2 Airways Boeing 737 cargo plane that vanished off the Arabian Sea after reporting a navigation issue on a Sharjah-to-Karachi route, with five crew onboard. Dubai Mobility Milestone: Dubai Taxi Company completed its AED 1.45bn ($394.8m) acquisition of National Taxi, expanding its UAE fleet to over 9,500 vehicles. Air Taxis Ready: Dubai’s VDX vertiport received regulatory certification from the GCAA, clearing the way for commercial eVTOL air-taxi operations. Investment Pulse: The UAE pulled in a record Dh177.3bn in FDI in 2025, up 6% and ranking 9th globally, with greenfield projects leading. Inclusive Tourism: Dubai launched a seaside autism-friendly sensory room at Jumeirah Beach 2 to support visitors with sensory sensitivities. Tech for Government: Microsoft deepened its UAE partnership to automate public-sector work using AI agents, with Copilot already on tens of thousands of Abu Dhabi government PCs. Business & Lifestyle: Modon says Hudayriyat Golf Estates in Abu Dhabi topped AED 13bn in sales within days of launch.