Hello reader,

In today’s newsletter:

Check out the latest updates from Arabian Business, where our editorial team has compiled the weekend's developments in the region:

Dubai businesses will be given the chance to grow in international markets thanks to a new $136m funding scheme. The initiative was launched by the Government of Dubai in partnership with Emirates National Bank of Dubai (Emirates NBD).

In another massive announcement, nol cards in the emirate will undergo a major upgrade according to the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). The upgrades will see facial recognition technology, artificial intelligence and new payment options introduced.

Meanwhile, to boost safety in the emirate, Dubai Police shared a video on social media showing cases of jaywalking in the city and published updates on the number of accidents and violations last year. Police said there were a total of 43,187 incidents where people were caught crossing roads at undesignated points in 2023.

Saudi Arabia also launched a new campaign to promote tourism in the kingdom. However, it comes as Lionel Messi is expected in Saudi Arabia this month ahead of a potentially historic meeting with Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr.

Meanwhile, the Kuwait International Airport saw more passengers, flights and cargo last year as it continues to grow in the aviation sector. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) said that the total of passengers that travelled through to and from Kuwait International Airport in 2023 reached 15,616,800 passengers.

THE LONGER READ:

As global uncertainties mount, from war to inflation, more individuals appear to be coping through short-sighted consumption booms. If unchecked, experts say doom spending trends could worsen future financial instability on both personal and national economic levels