The Agenda

With the ongoing regional conflict - global food prices are back in focus - with the UN warning fertiliser costs could keep inflation stubbornly high. While cocoa prices are falling, chocolate prices are still stubbornly high. We'll speak to a local chocolatier about why? Plus with some exam boards are now cancelling GCSE exams in the UAE, how will grades now be decided? And, Abu Dhabi's launching a major new biobank - saying it's a shift towards predictive, personalised healthcare. But how will it work? We'll ask the team behind the projectSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the conflict continues into a fifth week, we're starting to see signs of strain in some parts of the economy - in particular in those that rely on the tourism dirham. We'll be hearing from the team behind community mall Times Square Centre in Dubai, and from the Coca Cola Arena - which is currently hosting a massive clearance sale. Meanwhile the school transport companies are starting to offer discounts the education sector is feeling the impact even more sharply. But there are bigger questions too IB exams have now been cancelled - so what does that mean for students and their futures? Plus NASA has made it to the moon once again - the Artemis II spacecraft is now in orbit around the Earth. It's definitely a big deal - but why?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the impact of the conflict begins to be felt in the UAE, there are growing signs of a shift in the jobs market. Meanwhile, Dubai's driverless taxis are officially roaming the roads of Umm Suqeim and Jumeirah picking up passengers right now after the launch on Tuesday. We'll speak to Uber - one of the booking platforms - about how it's working out. And the trend towards banning social media for under-16's seems to be gathering steam.  Indonesia and Austria are following in the footsteps of Australia - which banned it three months ago. But is it workable?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dubai is launching driverless taxis today - a long-awaited step into the future. Home schooling has been extended for another two weeks - now running until April 17 - putting added pressure on parents and the wider education system. Meanwhile, with the Strait of Hormuz closed for a fifth week, it’s not just oil and gas affected - fertiliser costs are surging, raising fresh concerns about global food inflation and how we grow food more efficiently. And the city is also embracing a pay-it-forward dining trend, with initiatives like “Treat On Us” encouraging residents to buy meals for others and boost community spirit.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Despite regional conflict disrupting major sporting events, the Dubai World Cup has gone ahead - sending a strong signal about the UAE’s resilience and global standing. Meanwhile after heavy rain and flooding across the UAE, a new concern is emerging - could we now see a spike in mosquito activity, and how quickly can that risk grow? And as NASA prepares to head for the moon this week, we'll take a closer look at how the UAE is ramping up its ambitions - and positioning itself in the global space race. Plus, Dubai is continuing to invest in active transport - expanding its cycling network with 13 new tracks as the city pushes to become more connected and sustainable. We'll hear from the RTA.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We look at what's happening on the roads during this season's rains and how the RTA and Dubai Municipality prepare and ensure that the 2024 floods don't happen again. As we come to the close of the first week of home learning this term, we ask schools and universities about how they are managing the online setup. We also speak with the KHDA to find out the latest rules when it comes to remote learning. And if you're scheduled to watch a concert and it gets cancelled, what are your rights?      See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We look at property transaction volumes and mortgage lending in the UAE during the ongoing regional conflict. The Dubai World Cup is back this weekend, with a staggering $12 million on the line and some of the best horses on the planet lining up at Meydan. So what does it actually take to train, manage, and race a horse at this level?  And Primark has officially opened its first store in Dubai today, we look at how residents are receiving it.      See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Strait of Hormuz remains largely closed and it's causing chaos in global trade flows. We get the latest on what can actually be done to restore safe passage through one of the world’s most important waterways with Damien Chevallier from the International Maritime Organization.  The UAE’s small and medium-sized businesses are facing rising costs and uncertainty, and they’re looking for help.  Some schools are planning a return to classrooms and in-school learning, but is it the right time? We speak with one of the biggest school groups - GEMS. With oil prices soaring due to the crisis in the Middle East, the Philippines has become the first country in the world to formally declare a state of national energy emergency. We get the latest on the ground live in Manila. And with record rains set to hit the UAE today, how can you protect your home before the next storm?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the conflict enters its fourth week, we take a closer look at the UAE’s resilience and global reputation with His Excellency Badr Jafar, the UAE’s Special Envoy for Business and Philanthropy. Construction remains one of the key pillars of the UAE’s growth. But how is the sector really holding up? We ask Chris Seymour of Mace Middle East. A green corridor between Oman and Dubai is now in place to help keep trade flowing, offering an alternative route for cargo and easing some of the strain. Dr Lijo John from Heriot-Watt University Dubai gives us details. And as home learning continues, we continue to hear from schools how they are managing the remote setup.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the closure of the Strait of Hormuz continue to cause global repercussions, we are revisiting waterway and the seafarers currently trapped at sea. We also look at how the conflict is putting pressure on air traffic controllers. We turn our attention to spending habits when uncertainty rises, and are UAE shoppers pulling back or leaning in? As remote learning resumes, we also look at how the conflict is affecting families here in the UAE, and the growing pressure on nannies. Plus, we check in with schools and parents to see how the first day back at school for students is going.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the UAE restaurant scene struggles to manage the implications of the current conflict, we find out how chefs and restaurant owners are fighting to keep customers coming through the door. The UAE's Cyber Security Council is warning of heightened risks online as geopolitical tensions often fuel digital threats. We find out from cybersecurity expert Amir Kolahzadeh what we can do to avoid falling victim to wiper malware and how we can secure our CCTVs. Elon Musk’s Starlink service is now officially available in the UAE. But is there a link between the launch of satellite internet and the current conflict?  The ripple effects of rising oil prices are being felt far beyond the Middle East. We get details from Katie Chambers while she's on a pre-planned holiday in Sri Lanka. And as unstable weather in the UAE approaches, we get a bit of an analysis of the situation from the unofficial weatherman, Howard Townsend.    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With Eid nearly upon us, and demand for food surging, what’s happening behind the scenes to ensure food security for key staples? Could we see shortages? Ahmad Ahli, Acting Director of the Consumer Protection Department at the Dubai Corporation for Consumer Protection and Fair Trade (DCCPFT), gives us the answers. As the conflict continues, UAE hospitals remain on high alert, ready to respond swiftly to any emergency scenario. We find out what their readiness plans look like behind the scenes with emergency medicine doctor Sabrina Berdouk from Medcare Royal Hospital. And with the extension of distance learning for another two weeks, we find out how UAE universities are adapting and supporting students.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Distance learning has been extended from March 23 for two weeks amid the ongoing regional conflict, we speak with head of schools to find out what home learning will look like at their institutions. Airspace across the UAE closed in the early hours of this morning before gradually reopening as an exceptional precautionary measure to ensure the safety of flights and air crew. We unpack what this means for travellers with an aviation expert. And with the current situation, tourism is taking a hit, but hotels here in the UAE are adapting quickly. So what does that look like on the ground?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Agenda speaks exclusively to His Excellency Dr Saif Al Dhaheri, official spokesperson for the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority or NCEMA, to find out how the UAE coordinates its response behind the scenes to keep the public informed and safe After authorities arrest dozens of people for posting inaccurate or sensitive information online, we ask, when does a social media post become a crime in the UAE? We find out how cruise operators had to quicky adapt to the regional conflict. GoToDXB founders discuss running pleasure craft in Dubai during a challenging regional moment. And we find out how Expo City is turning spring break into a hands-on nature adventure for kids.    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With the continuing conflict in the region and heightened security measures across the UAE, companies are having to think carefully about how they support their staff. We ask Dulsco Group, a company who employs around 25,000 people across the Emirates, how they make sure their staff feel informed and protected. There are growing concerns this morning about the safety of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, which carries about 20% of global oil and LNG supplies. So what does this mean for global shipping, and how concerned should the maritime industry be right now? With the continuing conflict and missile interceptions overhead, many employees across the UAE are wondering how the current situation affects their working practices. What can employers ask of their staff right now, and what protections do employees have under the law? Plus, sharing homes is part of the reality of life in Dubai. But over the past few months we have also seen authorities take action against unsafe partitioned apartments, with a number of residents suddenly finding themselves evicted and asking the same question: what happens next?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The UAE Ministry of Economy and Tourism announces limited price increases on some food types, the authorities say they're temporary, and at the same time they're calling on the public to look out for unnecessary hikes - and to report them. Meanwhile - in a gesture of community solidarity Atlantis Dubai, is opening Aquaventure World for free for some residents - we'll find out how you can get those tickets. And in a flood of posts, videos and breaking updates - how do you spot fake posts and AI creations? Plus, we're all getting those emergency warnings now on a regular basis - but how does the technology work? Finally, British Airways is stopping services to Abu Dhabi - so how will this impact travelers?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With the spring holidays underway, increasing numbers of people are considering going on holiday - or continuing with plans they already made despite the current conflict. We'll get into the travel trends, and discuss how pilots are preparing and operating safely in the current circumstances. Meanwhile, it's been a rollercoaster few days for the oil price due to the ongoing regional conflict and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.  But how is this likely to affect you and me? And with some people still stranded here in the UAE, we'll speak to a doctor who's making sure they still get their prescriptions - by offering free consultationsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As regional tensions disrupt airspace and global travel, we look at how the UAE is responding behind the scenes. From Abu Dhabi’s crisis response system coordinating essential services, to Dubai authorities checking in on People of Determination. We also hear about a Dubai businessman who opened his farmhouse to stranded tourists, and examine the wider impact on airlines, global trade and seafarers as Middle East tensions escalate.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Flights are returning to UAE skies, but clearing the backlog of stranded passengers may take several days - but how many? Plus with the spring holidays starting early - we're going to look at how families can best use the break. During Ramadan, Dubai residents are continuing to show strong community spirit - with initiatives like the family-led Happy Happy UAE aiming to provide 1.2 million Iftar meals. As the community pulls together in the face of crisis - a UAE entrepreneur shares how government support during COVID helped him survive six months without business.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Flights are slowly restarting in the UAE as airlines prioritise stranded passengers after days of airspace disruption - Surina Kelly has all the details you need to know. Meanwhile, the government's bringing forward the spring holidays as UAE parents juggle work and distance learning. UAE authorities say national medicine stockpiles remain secure, with pharmaceutical supply chains operating normally. Meanwhile, a UAE resident returning from the UK has discovered something special about Golden Visas - apparently they mean you can get a repatriation flight back to the Emirates. If you were listening to the show we had an amazing story about a rugby team who landed in Bahrain on Saturday, and almost immediately came under fire. Today wegoing hear from one of the parents on that trip, and his young son, who's only 10. Aster DM Healthcare is offering free online mental health consultations to support UAE residents during a period of heightened anxiety.    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the air space is mostly closed currently, people are struggling to get in and out - and into that breach stepped Etihad Rail and its repatriation trains. RTA tells us how they're opening up roads to trucks, ensuring a regular supply of food stuffs and other freight. We also get analysis on the likely transport priorities for a country during a crisis like this with Martin Tillman. And we share the stories of people who travelled by land to return to the UAE, including a group of 60 children and adults from Bahrain.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As limited flights resume, we examine the operational chaos, financial strain, and long-term tourism impact of regional airspace closures. Plus whether the holidays we've got booked in the coming weeks are likely to go ahead. Meanwhile, the closure of the Strait of Hormuz is stalling global shipping and driving up prices - but by how much?  And, hundreds of Indian school pupils in the Middle East will have their exams postponed - so how are schools juggling the change. Finally, A homegrown UAE restaurant founded during the pandemic is now giving back again, offering free iftar meals to frontline workers during a new period of uncertainty.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, our focus is simple - we're going to be keeping you informed - as events continue to unfold. We’ll get the latest from Surina Kelly on what the government is telling residents this morning. Meanwhile, with all UAE airports closed, thousands remain stranded. Some are stuck abroad trying to get home, others are grounded here in the UAE. We’re also putting a big spotlight on misinformation.  The UAE’s Public Prosecution is warning that spreading rumours is a criminal offence carrying serious penalties. A Dubai holiday home company is stepping up to help stranded travelersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The UAE is breaking single-supplier control on medicines - to cut costs and prevent shortages, so how soon could patients see the benefits? We'll get the reaction from a market consultant and a pharmacy. As sea levels rise and coastal cities face mounting flood risks, the Dutch are building neighbourhoods designed to float rather than sink - so is that something that could work here? Plus, Student entrepreneurs are being given the opportunity to shine once again, as applications are now open for the Global Student Entrepreneur Awards. The competition enables student founders the chance to compete for mentorship, exposure and a share of a 100,000 dollar prize.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A viral fake AED 500 note has put counterfeit cash back in the spotlight, so what should you do if you come across one? Samsung unveils the Galaxy S26 series as rumours swirl that Apple could launch a foldable phone later this year. Air taxis move closer to take-off as Joby Aviation partners with Uber to launch bookable flights in the UAE. And 12-year-old Warren Bacongallo wins the UAE Spelling Bee Championship, with his younger brother Rei Martus finishing second runner-up.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The UAE has confirmed the academic calendar for the next three years, giving families and schools clarity on term dates, shorter breaks and a slightly later return after summer. Does this three-year clarity make your life easier, or are shorter breaks a concern for your family? A major shake-up in the UAE’s taxi market-- Bolt has added 1,823 vehicles through a new partnership, taking its Dubai fleet past 10,000 cars. A new UN report says the world has entered what it calls an era of “global water bankruptcy”, with 75 percent of people now living in water insecure countries and water-related conflicts rising sharply. And we are catching up with the UAE alpine skiers who have just returned from the slopes of the Winter Olympics. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We look at the power of giving and the rules that govern it after authorities put out a warning that collecting donations without a licence could mean jail time and fines of up to AED 500,000 dirhams. So what does the law actually say, and how can you make sure your generosity stays compliant? Then, turning charity into lasting impact. A major new endowment launched by Awqaf Abu Dhabi aims to provide long-term support for orphans across the UAE. We find out how it works. The UAE Central Bank has issued new guidelines governing how AI can be used across the banking sector. So what does that mean for your money, your data and your access to credit? Could we soon be drinking water made from thin air?  And we look at a research suggesting that consciousness may not switch off instantly when the heart stops.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dubai commuters could soon see their journey times cut from 24 minutes to just five. That will be the result of Hessa Street Development Project Phase 2, one of Dubai's latest major road upgrades. According to the Dubai Health Authority, the emirate now has over 4,000 licensed healthcare facilities, including hospitals, day-surgery centres and specialised clinics, and more than 50,000 licensed healthcare professionals operating across the system. So we’ve got more providers, more patients, more demand, and that growth inevitably feeds into insurance pricing. So what does that mean for you when your renewal notice lands in your inbox? The UAE says it has successfully stopped a wave of coordinated cyberattacks targeting key national infrastructure before any significant damage was done. But it does raise serious questions about the scale, frequency and sophistication of cyber warfare facing the region. And we look at the business of camel milk not just in the Gulf, but in the Land Down Under.    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We're talking smart doorbells and neighbourhood privacy, as Ring’s new AI-powered “Search Party” feature promises to reunite lost pets using your footage, but do you feel like you’re being watched when you walk around your community? And what does UAE law say about surveillance, consent and sharing those videos? We’re also looking ahead to the Eid break, why Ramadan is becoming a key driver for halal travel. Plus parking fees are rising across Dubai, so could the new rules actually help residents make money? And should we be worried about the thousands of potentially city-destroying asteroids NASA can’t currently track? Finally, Global Teacher Prize winner Rouble Nagi joins us to explain how she’s turning her $1 million award into real impact for children’s education.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Day two of Ramadan and as families ease into new routines, we ask what the shift in pace means for domestic workers’ hours. Careem joins us to launch its ‘Seeds for Gaza’ campaign and reveal how drivers will have their tips doubled during the Holy Month. Plus - moon sighting goes futuristic with AI-powered drones now scanning the skies. A new viral video starring Brad Pitt and Tom Cruise has Hollywood shaking in its boots, because it looks totally really, but it's totally AI. And from Tokyo, how groundbreaking tech at the Deaflympics is letting fans feel the action like never before.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

British children born overseas could be denied entry to the UK from next week because of a change in passport rules. And it is not just children. Dual nationals more broadly are facing a scramble for documentation before the new rules come into force on February 25th. So what does the law actually say? We are in the first day on Ramadan and the Holy Month of course, is a time of reflection and generosity, but how does that spirit translate into real-world behaviour, not just here in the UAE, but globally? We also find out a bit more about how you can give back this Holy Month. This week the UAE marked five years since its Hope Probe entered orbit around Mars, a historic achievement that made the Emirates the first Arab nation to reach the Red Planet. And today we learned the mission has been extended until 2028, three years beyond its original plan. There is now a growing campaign calling on hotels to bring back proper bathroom doors, arguing that privacy should not be optional. Is this clever use of space, or have hotels taken minimalist design too far? And some hotels are now embedding tiny tracking tags into towels and linens. The aim? To reduce theft, cut costs and monitor inventory more efficiently.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new premium airline is planned to be launched in Bahrain, creating around 1,200 jobs. What does this mean for the wider Gulf aviation landscape? It is now easier to travel between the UAE and the Kingdom of Bahrain. According to the latest World Tourism Barometer, Europe remains the most visited region, but the real growth stories are elsewhere. So what is driving travellers toward these so-called high-identity, emerging destinations? The second member of UAE's Winter Olympics contingent had a difficult outing on Monday as Alex Astridge did not finish his round in the men's slalom competition. Staying on the Winter Games, there’s growing concern among climate scientists that rising global temperatures could dramatically reduce the number of cities capable of safely hosting the Winter Olympics within the next few decades. And Dubai could one day be home to a 900-foot-high Moon. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The UAE Ministry of Education has introduced nine new enforcement measures to tackle rising student absenteeism, particularly before weekends and public holidays. Under the new rules, unexcused absences are capped at 15 days per academic year in public schools. So what message does this send, and could private schools follow suit? New data shows road accidents spike significantly during Ramadan, with the two-hour window between 2pm and 4pm accounting for the highest proportion of incidents. So how significant is the risk this year, and what should motorists be mindful of? We also look forward to the commencement of Ramadan and speak with the Dubai Astronomy Group. A new study is making headlines after researchers found that stimulating a specific part of the brain with mild electrical currents appeared to reduce selfish behaviour and increase generosity in decision making tasks. A team in the UK is using spider silk fibres and implanting them into a vein or hollow conduit to help repair a nerve, and they eventually degrade safely into the body. And we're telling you details about human poo used in medicine.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The UAE’s Ministry of Education has updated its early years entry policy to give flexibility to children entering Foundation Stage in the British curriculum. We hear your comments, parents, and we speak to two educators-- Sarah Hollingworth from GEMS Wellington Academy - Silicon Oasis and Rebecca Coulter from Dubai British School Jumeirah Park. Antimicrobial Resistance is being described as one of the greatest global health threats of our time and we discuss this on The Agenda today with three experts live from the ongoing WHX in Dubai. We also discuss camel racing in Saudi Arabia. And a new research from NYU Abu Dhabi suggests unusually warm waters in the Arabian Sea played a key role in intensifying the record-breaking rainfall in April 2024.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Georgia speaks with Christer Viktorsson, Director General of the UAE’s Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation about what the next phase of nuclear development looks like here in the Emirates. We also speak with Orxan Isayev as we broadcast live from WORLDEF Dubai at Dubai CommerCity. As Dubai tourism hits a new record, we discuss the emirate's new launch-- Al Layan Oasis.  Is the rise of "admin night" beneficial to your finances? And we tell you about the release of Honeycomb Stingrays into the Arabian Gulf.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We're discussing not just driverless taxis today on The Agenda, but even fully driverless personal vehicles as US robocar company Tensor has secured federal approval from the UAE Government’s Regulations Lab to begin testing across the Emirates, a significant regulatory milestone. The interest in the Winter Olympics has spiked here in the UAE, after two athletes were officially sent to compete. And now we’re looking at how Olympic uniforms are no longer just about function, they’re about making a statement. Social media companies Instagram and YouTube have been accused of creating "addiction machines" as a landmark trial began in California examining the mental health effects of these platforms. One of the most talked about developments at WHX is an AI-powered recruitment chatbot being demonstrated live at the Emirates Health Services booth. But do we want our nurses and doctors to be picked by a bot? And researchers from the UK have found that AI chatbots can provide inaccurate and inconsistent information when people seek help about their symptoms.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With Ramadan just around the corner, shopping habits are changing. From supermarket aisles and online deals to Iftar orders and special promotions, it is a busy time for consumers. So, we are turning our attention to consumer protection during the Holy Month and get the advices from Ahmad Ahli from the Dubai Corporation for Consumer Protection and Fair Trade.  UAE authorities have issued a warning after a growing number of cases showed children being targeted through online games and social media. What may look harmless on the surface can quickly turn risky, with scammers using fake gamer profiles, private chats, and social engineering tactics to gain children’s trust. What if we could identify people at risk of losing their sight before they ever show symptoms? That’s the promise of a remarkable new study from the Emirati Genome Program Across Dubai, residents are once again coming together to provide daily Iftar meals throughout the Holy Month of Ramadan. And why does the same cold hit people differently?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Apparently romantic scams are surging across the Middle East as social media and AI make it increasingly easy for fraudsters to operate at massive scale. So what's behind the sudden surge? And what are dating sites doing about it? We all love the convenience of contactless payments. Tap your phone, your card, even your smartwatch and you’re done. But… could that very convenience be putting us at risk? As some of the world’s leading health and science experts are in town for WHX Health, we also turn our focus to biotechnology and life sciences. And Julia Donaldson has unveiled the title and lead character of a brand‑new Gruffalo story set for release on 10 September 2026. Find out all the details here about its first full sequel in 20 years.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dubai's private schools will soon be teaching artificial intelligence… but how young is too young to start learning about algorithms?  We’ll speak to Fatma Al Janahi from the KHDA to find out what’s actually going into the curriculum. Also, if you’ve been stuck in traffic this week, you’re not alone.  But the RTA says help is on the way, with futuristic solutions like autonomous pods… and an underground Dubai Loop. Meanwhile, the Winter Olympics open tonight in Milan and Cortina, and for the first time ever, Team UAE will be taking part. Plus, The world’s top tactical units are arriving in Dubai for the seventh annual SWAT Challenge And, polar bears are putting on weight… but scientists say their new diet might not be cause for celebration.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From energy to electronics, key goods are getting more expensive - have you noticed prices going up in the UAE? We'll speak to the team from the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply to find out more about their forecast for 2026 plus Spinneys. Meanwhile with Ramadan just two weeks away, we'll find out how restaurants and shops are staffing up at speed. Can culture help combat climate change? Desert Board's CEO Kamal Farah shares how turning natural byproducts into sustainable wood is preserving tradition—and the planet. And Jebel Jais has reopened to the public after months of closures, but with new rules for access.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Speaking at the World Governments Summit in Dubai, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has announced that his government plans to ban children under 16 from accessing social media platforms. We hear the take of Dr Alison Burrows, Professor of Education and Childhood Studies at Middlesex University Dubai. The RTA is preparing to launch a new autonomous automated transit network in a move aimed at easing congestion and improving mobility across key areas of the city. Ahmed Bahrozyan, Chief Executive Officer of the Public Transport Agency at the RTA, gives us more details. A radical new competition is allowing the use of performance enhancing drugs. China has just become the first country in the world to ban hidden or retractable car door handles. Why? Safety. According to China’s new rules, hidden handles can delay emergency rescues and risk malfunctioning in accidents or extreme weather. A brand-new Gallup report, that has just been released at the World Governments Economy Summit, being held here in Dubai this week, asked people in 107 countries to name the single biggest problem facing their nation. And the number one answer, across continents, cultures and income levels? The economy. We're also asking today: what makes a high-performing city also a high-stress one? And how can we learn to live, work, and age better? When we talk about climate action, we tend to focus on energy, infrastructure, or policy. But what about culture? H.E. Shatha Al Mulla, Assistant Undersecretary for the National Identity and Arts Sector joins us. The UAE's been keen to improve its carbon footprint for years now, and two years ago it began an initiative called The Dubai Reef. We find out what it has achieved so far. And a remarkable advancement in the treatment of epilepsy is now available in the region.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For the first time in 10 years, WhichSchoolAdvisor, the region’s leading independent school review site, is including traffic conditions in its annual parent survey. It's a small change that signals a pretty big shift in how families are thinking about education in the UAE. We're joined by the co-founder of WhichSchoolAdvisor James Mullan to give us more details. Two principals also joined the discussion on what their schools are doing to tackle the traffic issue. The full passenger route map for the UAE’s long-awaited Etihad Rail has been revealed. So is this a game-changer for commuters and tourism?  From today, it is now mandatory to register your cats and dogs with the Abu Dhabi authorities. Last week, a loud sonic boom shook homes in California after a Chinese spacecraft crashing back to Earth. But while the debris burned through the atmosphere, something else happened and the shockwaves were picked up by earthquake sensors. And there are reports that Apple is secretly working on a brand new device... could this be the beginning of the end for the smartphone?    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A company that has just opened their regional office in Dubai isn’t hiring junior staff at all. Just C-Suite leaders. Why? Because they believe artificial intelligence can handle the rest. We speak to Heroiks. Then if AI is becoming the new junior staff, what does that mean for HR policies? We pose the question to employment lawyer Luke Tapp. Is Jarvis real now? When one company tried to bring Ironman’s Jarvis to life, things got weird. Moltbot was a premium AI home assistant designed to automate repetitive digital tasks on a user’s computer like reading and replying to emails, sorting files, or running terminal commands. But suddenly it started thinking for itself. We often talk about Ramadan as the “golden quarter” for marketers. But a new report is challenging that narrative. According to fresh research, it’s not just one big commercial spike, it’s a rhythm. A series of evolving influence moments, shaped by how people live, give, and gather during the Holy Month. Between 10pm and 4am, online activity surges. That’s when people are watching, browsing, and crucially, shopping. So what does that mean for retailers, platforms, and logistics? And how do you serve customers who are most active after midnight? And meet two Filipino longboarders who have just completed a non-stop, four-hour longboarding journey from Dubai all the way to Abu Dhabi. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With the UAE aiming for Net Zero by 2050, Etihad Rail is expected to play a key role in reducing road traffic, cutting carbon emissions, and shifting residents toward more sustainable mobility. Adhraa Al Mansoori, Director of Public Policy and Sustainability at Etihad Rail. We discuss disputes between tenants and landlords, eviction cases under Dubai Rental law and rent increase regulations with Dr. Yousef Al Mansoori, Senior First Instance Judge at the Rental Dispute Center in Dubai. And we find out how economic uncertainty and the arrival of AI affect entry-level roles and how these make job hunting more difficult for young people.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Abu Dhabi’s Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence has just announced the launch of K2 Think V2, a cutting-edge model being described as the country’s most powerful sovereign AI reasoning system to date. That power bank in your bag? It might be more dangerous than you think.  The Child Digital Safety Law which has come into force and it brings new rules around age verification, harmful content, and platform accountability. How does this reshape the legal landscape for global tech companies operating in the UAE? What does it mean for ISPs and telecom providers? And how will these rules be enforced? Some airports in Asia have started to screen passengers after a virus outbreak in India. What is Nipah virus? How does it transmit from one person to another? A team of scientists from NYU Abu Dhabi has just wrapped up the first nationwide coral “stress test”.  As Gulfood 2026 continues here in Dubai, one of the most talked-about themes this year is the future of protein. Not just where it comes from but how it’s made, how it tastes and how sustainable it really is. And we hear about a global challenge to build the world’s first fully robot-constructed residential villa.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Excitement is building over Disneyland Abu Dhabi, after the CEO of the company, Bob Iger, posted a picture of himself strolling along the coastline of Yas Island, around a sandpit. So with construction is still in its early phases, we ask Chris Seymour, Managing Director for the Middle East and Africa at Mace, when we can expect the park to be ready. Staying with that theme of confidence and capital flowing into the UAE, we also look at at Dubai’s most prestigious and glamorous properties with Ben Bandari. For decades, the private office was the ultimate symbol of power. But now in the post-pandemic era of hybrid working and open-plan collaboration, that door may finally be closing. What does it say about the changing world of work?  A large UK study has found the menopause is linked to changes in the brain similar to those seen in Alzheimer's. The world’s first “Gold Street” is set to be built in Dubai as part of the newly-launched Dubai Gold District. We get details from gold expert Jeff Rhodes. From ocean pollution to microplastics in our food and water, it's often painted as the environmental villain of our age. But is that reputation entirely fair? And would you mind if your next burger came from a bioreactor instead of a cow?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority has now completed 65% of a major new bridge project that will link Sheikh Zayed Road directly to Dubai Harbour. Hamad Al Shehhi, Director of Roads at Traffic and Roads Agency at the RTA gives us more details. Is paracetamol safe to take during pregnancy? Well, according to a major new review published in The Lancet, the answer is yes. The researchers behind the study say there is no evidence linking paracetamol use to autism, ADHD, or other developmental issues in children.  For the first time ever, the UAE will be sending not one, but two athletes to the Winter Olympics. One of them is Piera Hudson who has qualified to compete in alpine skiing at Milano–Cortina 2026, and she joins Georgia on the show today. A remarkable new archive has just opened beneath the Antarctic ice designed to preserve disappearing climate records from glaciers around the world. We find out more information about the 'Ice Memory Sanctuary’ from Ice Memory Foundation Director, Anne-Catherine Ohlmann. We discuss food trends and how neuroscience is revolutionising food product development as Gulfood takes place in Dubai. And it’s already chilly across the Emirates, but is another cold wave on the way?  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More than 2,000 residents have managed to buy their very first home in Dubai in just six months and currently there are 40,000 on the waiting list of the First-Time Home Buyer Programme, launched in July last year by the Dubai Land Department and the Department of Economy and Tourism. It’s already driven over AED 3.25 billion in residential property sales… and the government is now looking to expand the initiative even further. Mohammed Yahya, Director of Real Estate Transactions at the Dubai Land Department, gives us the details. What is it actually like on the ground for buyers navigating mortgages, deposits, and approvals for the very first time? We ask mortgage broker Jo Phillips. A new report from Oliver Wyman reveals that the global cost of traffic congestion now exceeds 500 billion dollars a year. What can be the solutions to help cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi? The Dubai Films and Games Commission is partnering with the UK’s National Film and Television School and Prime Video to launch a new Talent Development Programme aimed at fast-tracking the next generation of scriptwriting and production talent in Dubai. And meet Austria's clever cow Veronika...See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As a parent here in the UAE, you now have a legal obligation to monitor your child’s digital activity. Lawyer Dino Wilkinson, partner at Baker, joins us to explain what the law says. We also look at the psychological and behavioural side of this issue with consultant in digital wellbeing and meaningful learning with technology for children, Dr Alison Burrows. The National Centre of Meteorology tells us how AI is helping with cloudseeding to boost rainfall. Ahmed El Kamali, Acting Head of cloudseeding operations at the NMC gives us the details. A video recently shared on Instagram shows litter scattered along popular hiking routes, and it’s prompted a wave of concern from nature lovers who say it's time to take action. And a group of UAE students transformed a plot of land at a school in Nairobi, turning it into a working farm that will help provide food for children in need.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Renting a car should be straightforward. But based on the messages we've been getting from listeners, it seems a lot of people are facing unexpected fees, delayed refunds, and damage charges they don’t agree with. Ahmad Ahli, Acting Director of the Consumer Protection Department at the Dubai Corporation for Consumer Protection and Fair Trade joins us to answer your concerns. We also discuss degree accreditation with the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research. Plus, we also ask, does where you studied really matter when you enter the UAE job market?  And we tell you about a pair of smart glasses that are designed for people with dementia.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.