National Multiple Sclerosis Society Awards Funding to 4 Research Projects Driving Multiple Sclerosis Research in UAE as Part of 3rd Cycle of Research Grant Program
Program funding reachesnearly AED 11 million, strengthening the UAE’s MS research ecosystem
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, 18 May 2026:The National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS) has announced four research projects funded under the third cycle of its Research Grant Program,as well as the launch of the fourth grant cycle.
Test sample for analysis. Selective focus of a transparent petri dish with liquid in it
The program has attracted strong engagement from across the UAE, receiving 36 letters of intent and 34 full applications in its latest cycle, with four projects awarded funding – reflecting the continued growth of the UAE’s MS research ecosystem.
Master Works to serve as systems integrator, leveraging Google Cloud technology to build the digital foundation for Qiddiya’s massive entertainment city
A new AI Factory,built by Gemini, to drive smarter operations and futuristic visitor experiences
RIYADH, Saudi Arabia — May 18, 2026 — Qiddiya Investment Company and Google Cloud today announced a major expansion of their collaboration to establish the digital foundation for one of the world’s largest entertainment projects. Through strategic systems integrator Master Works, Qiddiya will leverage Google Cloud technology to power a massive-scale entertainment destination – Qiddiya City – roughly three times the geographic area of Paris.
Qiddiya’s projects are a key pillar of Saudi Vision 2030, a strategic framework launched in 2016 to reduce Saudi Arabia’s reliance on oil and diversify its economy. While flagship destinations like Six Flags Qiddiya City and Aquarabia are now open to the public, Qiddiya City which spans 360 km² across more than 20 neighbourhoods, continues its massive expansion to integrate professional sports stadiums, gaming districts, and arts venues into one unified intelligent entertainment ecosystem.
As part of the expanded collaboration with Google, Qiddiya will deploy Google Cloud’s data and AI technologies as the digital enabler for the city’s operations, providing instant insights into construction milestones, visitor demand patterns, and real-time operational efficiency. By analyzing these critical metrics as they occur, Qiddiya is able to function as a fully responsive smart city, reducing time-to-insight from weeks to minutes.
Demand for design-led, investment-smart waterfront living shapes Abu Dhabi’s premium residential market
Abu Dhabi, UAE: MERED, the award-winning real estate developer, has released new buyer insights from Riviera Residences, its landmark waterfront project designed by Herzog & de Meuron, revealing what is driving high-net-worth buyer decisions in Abu Dhabi’s premium property segment. Compiled from direct buyer engagements in Q1 2026, the findings reflect evolving expectations around waterfront living, architectural quality, investment performance, and long-term asset value.
India’s recent increase in gold import duty from 6% to 15% has created a strong price advantage for jewellery buyers in the UAE, especially in Dubai, the City of Gold. Industry leaders say the move is significant because India’s gold import duty has reached one of its highest levels in the last two decades.
This time, the impact is even more meaningful for NRIs living in or travelling through the UAE because of the renewed clarity on India’s baggage allowance rules. As per the current rules, NRIs, men can carry up to 20 grams and women up to 40 grams of gold jewellery duty free into India, subject to prescribed conditions. For a travelling family, this allows around 100 grams or more of gold jewellery to be carried legally within the duty-free baggage allowance.
According to Dr. Joy Alukkas, Chairman of Joyalukkas Jewellery, this combination of higher Indian duty, baggage rule clarity, and Dubai’s competitive gold market has created a clear opportunity for customers.
Entrepreneur and philanthropist transforms personal journey into a heartfelt anthem of gratitude, celebrating the UAE as a home for millions from over 200 nationalities
Date: Dubai, UAE, May 18, 2026
At a time when geopolitical tensions have stirred uncertainty across parts of the Middle East, Dubai-based entrepreneur and philanthropist Dr Harmeek Singh has chosen to respond with a powerful and unifying message a musical tribute dedicated to the United Arab Emirates – the country he proudly calls his second home.
Inspired by the spirit of the UAE national anthem, the tribute stands as a heartfelt expression of gratitude, celebrating the nation’s values of peace, tolerance, and coexistence. Widely described as an “anthem of appreciation,” the song captures the emotions of millions of expatriates who have built their lives in the UAE and now consider it home.
UAE News 24/7 