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Mobility Education Summit Abu Dhabi deliberates on the future of mobility
With a vision and focus on digital transformation and foreseeing the future in the field of mobility and driving education, the first Mobility Education Summit, a global initiative launched by UAE brought many pertinent topics to the forefront. Mobility experts from around the world deliberated on creating awareness of safe driving measures, reducing the number of road accidents, training in the metaverse, smart testing methods, and sustainability in mobility amongst many other subjects concerning the future of mobility.
Speaking at the summit, Mr. Khalid Al Shmeili, CEO of Emirates Driving Company said, “It’s indeed an extremely proud moment for us as the first global meeting of mobility experts is taking place right here in the capital of UAE. Pioneers of driving education from different countries are imparting education and creating awareness about traffic safety and developing of related solutions and new laws that regulate and legitimize smart mobility.
Setting the pace of distinguished and sustainable training, with this first-of-its-kind event our aim is to accelerate the development of sophisticated and sustainable training techniques and promote a shift towards transportation education that is based on sustainable mobility, technology, and security.”
Establishing a direct relationship between mobility and the prosperity of nations, Associate Provost for Research at UAE University, Professor Ahmed Ali Murad said, “Mobility is an essential element for all communities and all activities. The prosperity of nations may not be fully achieved without high mobility and efficient transportation systems. In other words, high mobility reflects the quality of life and well-being. Studies indicate that increasing the travel speeds by 10 percent would increase the productivity of the city by 3% and would also increase the labor market by 15%.
On the other hand, the expanded markets would then help the expansion of business and create more jobs and opportunities. Improved mobility provides access to better jobs. Modern societies require better mobility. If people can’t move with comfort and safety, their ability to be active and productive will be limited.
However, he also emphasized that enhancement of population mobility should be achieved without increasing the adverse impacts on the environment. The recent shift towards electrification and automation, along with the recent developments in autonomous cars and transportation systems may help in this regard.
“Through this conference, we hope to achieve more safety and higher mobility for the population of UAE. The conference is expected to address and define sustainable solutions to the safety and mobility challenges of today, including road traffic injuries, drowning, and falls. It is hoped that you will be able to develop norms, standards, and tools to improve safety and mobility at the national level further stated by Prof. Murad.
Furthermore, elaborating on the smart Driving Test Project, Lt. Colonel Fahad Al-Arefi, Deputy Director of the Drivers Licensing Department, Abu Dhabi Police said, “ In line with the strategic directions of the government of the United Arab Emirates and the government of Abu Dhabi in the optimal use of human resources and the use of the latest modern technologies, the Abu Dhabi Police General Command – Drivers and Vehicles Licensing Directorate launched the Smart Driving Test Project.
This test represents a quantum leap and a pioneering initiative in evaluating the performance of applicants for obtaining a driver’s license in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. The system is unique in terms of full automation of the performance of those who are about to pass the driving test, including achieving the strategic goal of road safety and life safety. The driver inspection system relies on the latest technologies used globally using artificial intelligence, which ensures keeping pace with global trends in this field and evaluating drivers without the intervention of the human element. Technology contributes to re-engineering procedures and processes, which reduces time and effort on customers, raises the level of customer happiness, and achieves the government’s aspirations for providing seven-star services.”
Hosted at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre from 14-16 November 2022 and organized by Emirates Driving Company in partnership with Abu Dhabi Police HQ, the European Driving Schools Association, the Department of Municipalities and Transport, and the Integrated Transport Centre, Abu Dhabi, the breakthrough event targets driving schools from across the world and looks at how they can be progressed to provide a greater level of service and education for future generations.
Established in 2000, Emirates Driving Company (EDC) is Abu Dhabi’s leading driver training and road safety institute. Driven by a desire to implement the best practices in driver training and road safety education across the emirate, it is on a mission to create safer roads by innovating, collaborating, and investing in new technologies and smarter operating models.
A socially responsible company founded on the values of integrity and inclusivity, EDC has set a new standard in traffic safety and education in the Middle East. EDC’s state-of-the-art facility features the most advanced communication tools, control systems, and cutting-edge techniques in the industry, and all its expert training is delivered to internationally recognized standards.
Its comprehensive services include full training courses in light vehicles, motorcycles, heavy vehicles, heavy buses, and light and heavy machinery, with each program covering basic vehicle knowledge, traffic rules, driving inside and outside cities, hazard perception, and more.
The forward-thinking organization also offers its own e-learning platform to provide easy access to useful documents and resources, and it proudly boasts two offices in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain.
News
Free Mineral Water for All: UAE Startup to Launch Groundbreaking Public Hydration Initiative

Staying hydrated just got easier, and greener, thanks to Ourwatr, that’s launching a nationwide free mineral water programme starting June 2025. It’s a first in the region: clean, refreshing mineral water made freely available across the country, delivered through a unique model that blends sustainability, community care, and social impact.
From metro stations and shopping malls to parks and government offices, thousands of chilled bottles of mineral water, sourced locally from Dibba, Fujairah, will soon be within everyone’s reach, every day. Ourwatr’s mission is simple: hydration is a right, not a privilege.
“At Ourwatr, we believe that drinking water should be accessible to all,” says Abhinav Murali, Co-founder.
“That’s why we’re giving away premium mineral water for free, and every bottle supports communities in need. It’s hydration with heart, proudly made right here in the UAE.”
Stamp of UAE quality
All Ourwatr bottles carry the prestigious EQM (Emirates Quality Mark) certification, guaranteeing they meet strict UAE national and international quality standards. When you grab a bottle, you’re assured of top-quality water, safe, pure, refreshing and approved by the country’s standardisation authority.
Mission in a bottle
With temperatures rising across the UAE, especially during summer, access to clean drinking water is more important than ever, for workers, families, children, and the elderly alike.

“In our desert climate, hydration isn’t just healthy; it’s life-saving,” adds co-founder Bharath Mohan.
“Each bottle we provide is a small act of kindness toward our community.”
Ourwatr is more than just a startup, it’s a mission in a bottle. Launched by three young, UAE-based entrepreneurs, the idea was sparked by a simple but powerful observation: access to free, convenient hydration isn’t always a given.
Wanting to change that, the trio built a business with heart at its core. The team is also in talks with various UAE charitable organisations and government agencies to expand its reach and impact. For every bottle distributed, a portion will be donated to local charities, turning everyday hydration into a meaningful act of giving.
A Model Built on Purpose and Sustainability
Ourwatr isn’t just about water, it’s about doing good. Instead of selling to consumers, the company partners with brands and organisations who cover the production and distribution costs. In return, sponsors co-brand the bottles, using them as a platform to share positive messages and shared values, while making a real difference.
“Sustainability isn’t just about less waste, it’s about creating lasting, meaningful change,” explains Sharat Nair, Co-founder.
The bottles are crafted from recyclable materials, aligning with the UAE’s zero-waste goals and green agenda.
Backing UAE Vision 2030
Ourwatr’s initiative supports the UAE’s Vision 2030 goals around health, sustainability, and quality of life. The startup is already collaborating with local authorities to expand water access and reach as many people as possible.
More than just water, Ourwatr is delivering hope, equality, and care, one bottle at a time.
Home Integrator
Ardee Developments Announces Sales Launch for Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island

Ardee Developments has announced the launch of sales for Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island, its highly anticipated branded residential offering in partnership with Fairmont Hotels & Resorts.
Official sales will commence on 1 June 2025 with expression of interest starting 15 May 2025, marking a major milestone in the evolution of Ardee Al Marjan Island, the company’s flagship, multi-billion-dirham development set to redefine coastal living in Ras Al Khaimah.
Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island will comprise 523 upscale residences — including apartments, townhouses, and sea villas — ranging from one to six bedrooms and spanning 86 m² to over 300 m². Every home is thoughtfully designed to embody refined beachfront living, with uninterrupted sea views and elegant interiors that reflect timeless sophistication.
Bringing together the prestige of the Fairmont brand with the ease of resort-style living, residents will enjoy exclusive access to a private beach, the Fairmont Fit Fitness Centre and Studio, family & kids pool, adults sky pool & terrace & bar, dedicated boardroom and private dining room, resident’s owners lounge as well as wellness facilities including treatment rooms, screening room, games room, kids club and seamless connectivity to the adjacent Fairmont resort.
Further enriching the offering is a tailored suite of à la carte services. From in-home catering and private chef experiences to childcare, dog walking, housekeeping, personal concierge support, and a home maintenance program while residents are away, every element is designed to simplify and enhance everyday living. In addition, residents will enjoy exclusive access to the Accor Owner Benefits Program. This includes Diamond status in the Accor Live Limitless (ALL) programme, the ability to gift Gold status to family and friends, and VIP privileges at over 5,700 hotels and resorts around the world.
With prices starting from AED 2.49 Million, Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island offers an exclusive opportunity for discerning buyers seeking long-term value, effortless luxury, and a lifestyle defined by exceptional quality in one of the region’s most iconic coastal destinations.
Beyond the residences, guests were given an exclusive look at the next phase of the Ardee Al Marjan Island masterplan. The development is progressing into a fully integrated coastal destination that blends residences, hospitality, leisure, retail, and entertainment on an unprecedented scale.
Key components of the masterplan include branded and serviced residences, private villas, townhouses, a flagship luxury hotel, and a vibrant retail and F&B promenade. The destination will also feature a variety of curated lifestyle offerings — from wellness hubs and gaming lounges to family entertainment zones and waterfront experiences — all designed to create a future-ready, immersive community.
Prioritizing walkability, nature access, and sea connectivity, the project will boast expansive green spaces, direct beach access, and panoramic views, setting a new standard for contemporary island living in Ras Al Khaimah.
Vishal Mehta, CEO of Ardee Developments, added: “As we prepare to open sales of Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island this June, we are proud to invite buyers into a community that reflects excellence at every level. In partnership with Al Marjan Island, Fairmont Hotels, and Christie’s International Real Estate, we are shaping a new era of luxury coastal living in Ras Al Khaimah — one defined by world-class design, hospitality, and lifestyle, brought together in a truly integrated destination.”
To support global sales efforts, Ardee Developments has appointed Christie’s International Real Estate Ras Al Khaimah as the exclusive master agency. Christie’s will lead GCC and international outreach and client servicing, ensuring a seamless buyer journey.
“This is a vibrant and integrated coastal lifestyle community that combines natural beauty, unparalleled hospitality and leisure not seen in the area before,” said Jackie Johns and Dinesh Chhatwani, Managing Partners at Christie’s International Real Estate Ras Al Khaimah. “Ras Al Khaimah’s momentum as a global hospitality and investment hub, and its rapidly growing real estate market, makes it the ideal launchpad for Ardee Developments to execute its grand vision.”
Home Integrator
MERED Unveils Strategic Vision for Saudi Arabia at Saudi Giga Projects 2025

MERED outlined its long-term investment plans and strategic vision for Saudi Arabia at Saudi Giga Projects 2025 in Riyadh. The event, a key platform aligned with Vision 2030, brought together government bodies, giga project leaders, and private sector executives to discuss development, contracting, and talent-building opportunities within the Kingdom’s fast-growing construction and real estate sectors. As part of MERED’s participation, CEO Michael Belton joined a fireside chat where he shared insights into the company’s market entry approach and growth plans for the Saudi market.
“The Kingdom’s rapid urban and infrastructure growth is reshaping residential demand and creating new opportunities for long-term development,” said Michael Belton, CEO of MERED. “Vision 2030 and ongoing economic diversification are driving strong demand across residential, retail, commercial, and hospitality sectors, supported by investor-friendly reforms. In major cities like Riyadh and Jeddah, we’re seeing increased interest in premium and luxury living, as well as growing demand for Class A office spaces that reflect the ambitions of a modern business environment. MERED is well-positioned to meet these changing market needs through high-quality, innovative developments that offer lasting value.”
Yazan Al-Khalidi, Chief Commercial Director at MERED, joined a panel alongside leading developers, consultants, and contractors to discuss workforce capabilities and the skills required to deliver Saudi Arabia’s giga projects efficiently and at scale. The Kingdom’s real estate sector is projected to contribute 10% to GDP by 2030, while non-oil economic activity now accounts for over 50% of national GDP. Knight Frank’s Saudi Report 2025 reveals that 93% of high-income Saudi nationals are actively seeking to buy property, reinforcing the country’s ambition to build a competitive luxury real estate market.
Alongside its growth plans in Saudi Arabia, MERED is supporting the development of future architectural talent in line with the region’s broader goal of equipping young people with in-demand skills. As part of this effort, the company is sponsoring a select group of students to attend the Pininfarina Architecture Summer School in Turin this July, through its partnership with the prestigious Pininfarina Academy, founded by the renowned Italian design house. The program offers hands-on training and exposure to international design practices, giving participants valuable experience they can apply to architectural projects across the region.
MERED’s participation underscores its broader commitment to supporting the Kingdom’s real estate ambitions through innovation, sustainability, and knowledge transfer. With a pipeline of projects already launched in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, including the 290-meter ICONIC Residences designed by Pininfarina, the brand is well-positioned to introduce high-end, future-ready developments to the Saudi market.
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