02nd June 2026 - 08th June 2026| WEEKLY BUSINESS ROUNDUP

June 08, 2026
Dubai's clean energy production reaches 21.5% of total capacity
Latest statistics reveal clean energy production capacity of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) now accounts for more than 21.5% of its total energy production capacity. These figures are in line with the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and the Dubai Net Zero Carbon Emissions Strategy 2050, which aim to provide 100% of Dubai’s energy production capacity from clean sources by 2050.
 
As per OECD, global steel excess capacity projected to reach 745m tonnes by 2028
Driven by increasing subsidies in some major non-OECD steel-producing economies, global steel excess capacity continues to grow. The OECD Steel Outlook 2026 projects global steel excess capacity to reach 745 million tons by 2028, exceeding the OECD’s current steel production by 319 million tons.
 
UAE M&A market exhibits resilience; 33 M&A deals worth $2.2bn in Q1 2026
UAE’s mergers and acquisitions (M&A) market exhibited resilience during Q1 2026 despite uncertainty across the region. It is reported the country recorded 33 M&A deals worth USD 2.2.bn in Q1 2026 as investor confidence stayed optimistic.
 
UAE records robust AML/CFT/CPF performance in 2025
The National Anti-Money Laundering and Combatting the Financing of Terrorism and Proliferation Financing Committee (NAMLCFTPC) announced performance indicators of the UAE’s national AML/CFT/CPF framework for 2025. It is reported that 781 inspections were conducted across financial institutions and VASPs, with administrative penalties amounting to AED384 million imposed. Further incoming mutual legal assistance requests increased by 4.9%, from 492 to 516 requests in 2025. The above points towards maturity and continued development of the national framework in AML/ CFT / CPF. 
 
UAE advances global water dialogue at 4th Dushanbe Water Conference
To strengthen the global water agenda, UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) participated in the 4th Dushanbe Water Conference – attended by more than 2,000 participants from over 110 countries and international organizations. UAE engaged in a series of sessions aligned with the six themes of the Interactive Dialogues of the 2026 UN Water Conference.
 
Dubai office sales surge 203% to $2.2bn; off-plan market hits 15-year high
Dubai office sales hit USD2.2bn in Q1 2026, marking rise of 203% year-on-year. Driven by sustained business growth and a shortage of premium spaces, the off-plan sector accounted for more than 60% of these sales and reportedly hit their highest level in 15 years. 
 
Dubai gears up with major tourism, retail and events plans for the rest of 2026
Dubai’s tourism sector is lining up with a roadmap for growth during the second half of 2026. Combined with the support of stakeholders and partners powered by a diversified market strategy, Dubai plans to bring into play major tourism, retail and events plans in H2 2026.
 
Dubai South property sales surge 36%
Driven by the expansion of Dubai World Central into the world’s largest airport, property  sales in Dubai South have surged 36% since February  end – reaffirming the emirate’s commitment to  Dubai Economic Agenda. 
 
Abu Dhabi  announces rent freeze
Abu Dhabi announced a temporary reduction of its annual rental increase cap from 5 per cent to 0 per cent across residential, commercial and industrial properties - aiming to  provide relief to  tenants across the emirate.