AGP Executive Report

Strait of Hormuz Disruption: The US launched more strikes on Iran and said a naval blockade would resume, while Trump then cancelled a planned 20% Hormuz shipping toll after one day—raising fresh uncertainty for Gulf trade and maritime safety. Coastal Security & Ports: With attacks continuing, Dubai is reported to be planning a new port to bypass the Strait, and DP World is in talks to expand Fujairah facilities to ease pressure on Jebel Ali. UAE Business Resilience: Dubai Islamic Bank posted H1 gross revenue up 10% on financing growth, while Nasdaq Dubai welcomed Ajman Bank’s $300m Additional Tier 1 perpetual sukuk listing. Water & Climate Governance: DEWA and the World Water Council discussed future water governance, as the region faces mounting climate and water stress. Sustainability in Finance: S&P said local-currency sukuk is set to keep driving global issuance growth in 2026. Green Tech & Mobility: DP World backed a pilot for atmospheric water generation tech with Maithri Aquatech. Design & Nature: Nikken Sekkei’s Dubai Design Week pavilion and UAE projects picked up major international awards, highlighting architecture that blends with landscape and water features.

Water Crisis: UN chief Antonio Guterres warned that the world is “living beyond hydrological means,” with overuse, pollution and climate change driving freshwater systems toward irreversible decline—urging action ahead of the UAE-hosted UN Water Conference in Abu Dhabi. UAE Water Diplomacy: The UAE Embassy in South Africa and ISS convened diplomats to prepare for the 2026 UN Water Conference, reinforcing UAE-led water conservation and SDG 6 priorities. Local Food & Climate Resilience: As summer farming ramps up, locally produced vegetables are topping UAE retail shelves, with farmers citing heat-tolerant crops and consumers increasingly choosing local for freshness and taste. Wastewater Capacity Boost: BEEAH and EtihadWE signed a joint development agreement to expand Sharjah wastewater treatment capacity, supporting cleaner water and stronger environmental services. Shipping & Environment Risk: Strait of Hormuz traffic fell sharply as vessels shifted to defensive routes amid renewed attacks, raising risks for marine safety and regional environmental impacts. Sustainability Recognition: Zayed Sustainability Prize closed 2027 submissions with strong global participation, highlighting continued momentum for sustainability projects.

Waste & Circular Economy (Abu Dhabi): Tadweer awarded a contract to Urbaser to build Abu Dhabi’s first greenfield material recovery facility, targeting 400,000 tonnes of waste processed annually and helping divert 80% away from landfill by 2031; the plant is set to run from 2028 and will use automated sorting with optical tech and AI. Clean Energy Finance (GCC): Positive Zero secured up to $375m in non-recourse financing for decentralised infrastructure—distributed solar, energy efficiency and clean mobility—supporting expansion across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Oman and Qatar. Power & Water Performance (Dubai): DEWA ranked first globally in 13 utility performance indicators, including the lowest electricity transmission and distribution losses (2%) and water network losses (4.4%), backed by smart grid restoration tech. Nature & Food Systems Finance (London): Ecobank listed a $450m Sustainable Agriculture & Natural Capital “Nature Bond” at the London Stock Exchange, aimed at biodiversity-priority lending across 24 markets. Chemicals & Health (Sharjah): A University of Sharjah study highlights ongoing environmental risks from PBDE flame-retardant chemicals, still persisting via legacy products and recycled plastics. Sustainability Awards (UAE): The Zayed Sustainability Prize closed 2027 submissions with 10,233 entries from 177 countries, spanning health, food, energy, water and climate action.

Dubai Traffic Relief: RTA has awarded a AED 2bn, 12km Latifa bint Hamdan Corridor project with 7 bridges and 8 tunnels, aiming to cut travel time between Umm Al Sheif Street and Emirates Road from 33 minutes to 15 (54% faster) by end-2028. Clean Energy & Water Performance: DEWA says it topped 13 key performance indicators, including the world’s lowest customer minutes lost (0.82) and low network losses (2% electricity, 4.4% water), supported by smart grid restoration tech. Youth & Skills for Sustainability: Al Ain Youth Week 2026 (15–21 July) will focus on Emirati values, future skills and AI, and leadership in tourism and the economy. Flood Solidarity: The UAE expressed condolences and solidarity with Bangladesh after deadly floods, offering support as rescue and evacuation efforts continue. Regional Air Safety Watch: US-Iran tensions are disrupting Gulf aviation with missile alerts and temporary restrictions across Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan and the UAE. UAE Education Abroad: UAE University hosted the QS Africa 2026 Higher Education Forum in Ethiopia, stressing cross-border solutions for climate, food security and youth employment. Business Links: Sharjah Chamber (SCCI) met Uganda’s ambassador to boost trade and investment ties. Environment Benchmark: UAE leads the Arab world in the 2026 Environmental Performance Index (EPI).

UAE–US Tech Shift: The US classified the UAE as Group A:5 under export rules, easing licensing for advanced tech including AI, satellites and some defence-related items—marking a move beyond the old energy-first partnership. Energy & Grid Resilience: Abu Dhabi’s SmartWatt and India’s BSES Rajdhani formalised a Muruna Initiative to use AI plus battery and distributed energy resources to make Delhi’s power network more flexible and sustainable. Business Growth in Abu Dhabi: Q1 data shows strong momentum in new licences—professional licences up 193% and commercial licences up 20%—as the emirate pushes streamlined, digital investment processes. Public Health Reminder (Dubai): A Dubai microbiologist warns that black mould spots under lunchbox lids’ rubber seals can contaminate food and trigger allergies or digestive issues; clean properly and don’t ignore visible growth. Regional Security Watch: US-Iran tensions escalated again around the Strait of Hormuz, with the UAE saying missile threats stayed outside its airspace. Wildlife Policy: A US official linked to a commercial breeding centre is reportedly set to lead the US delegation to CITES talks in Geneva.

Heat & health: A red heatwave alert forced Tour de France stage nine to be shortened by 30km in France, with officials citing conditions “compatible with” the warning—another reminder that extreme heat is reshaping outdoor events. UAE energy innovation abroad: Abu Dhabi-headquartered SmartWatt and India’s BSES Rajdhani Power formalised a Muruna Initiative engagement in New Delhi, using AI plus battery storage and distributed energy resources to build demand-side flexibility and a future AI command-and-control centre. Water & power conservation for kids: DEWA’s Youth Council ran a “Electricity and Water Heroes” workshop at Dubai Summer Camp 2026, teaching children aged 5–15 practical habits to cut waste and protect the environment. Marine ecology work: Abu Dhabi Environment Agency completed a long-term survey mapping oyster beds across emirate marine waters, supporting better protection of local ecosystems. Sustainability at global forums: A UAE-linked delegation in Geneva advanced AI-driven climate finance and green value infrastructure discussions at WSIS Forum 2026 and AI for Good. Education push: Sheikh Mohammed congratulated UAE top high school graduates, reinforcing education as a national project.

Health & Heat Safety: UAE doctors warn that long hours in cold, dry air from poorly maintained AC can trigger dry eyes, irritated airways, allergies and asthma flare-ups—especially for children and the elderly. UAE Environment Leadership: The UAE tops the Arab world in the 2026 Environmental Performance Index (EPI), reinforcing its push on sustainability and measurable environmental outcomes. Clean Energy & Power Efficiency: DEWA highlights governance and sustainability wins, while an India-UAE AI upgrade plan targets smarter power-grid operations in Delhi to cut outages and improve reliability. Sustainable Aviation Fuel: Abu Dhabi-backed Acelen signs a major soy-oil supply deal for Brazil SAF and renewable diesel production, linking Gulf investment with lower-carbon aviation feedstocks. Water & Climate Resilience: WFP and ICBA partner on water governance and climate-smart agriculture for food security. Strait of Hormuz Watch: Europe weighs proposals for navigational fees in the Strait of Hormuz, as shipping and energy flows remain sensitive to regional tensions. Business & Growth Platform: Dubai Chambers launches “Business in Dubai” to centralise corporate services and help firms expand faster.

UAE Environmental Leadership: The UAE topped Arab countries in the 2026 Environmental Performance Index, scoring strongly across environmental health, ecosystem vitality and climate change—credited to major environmental investment, stronger rules, and better data use. Clean Mobility & Urban Planning: Dubai is pushing ahead with big transport upgrades, including the planned Dubai Loop electric underground route to cut travel times, alongside wider megaproject momentum through 2032. Energy & Climate Finance: New guidance on “transition-labelled” bonds and loans is set to reshape sustainable finance, with expectations that 2026 will bring more labelled instruments beyond traditional green deals. Green Buildings & Industry Moves: Expo City Dubai has issued the UAE’s first green licences, while DEWA and partners continue expanding clean-energy and efficiency efforts. Local Heritage for Kids: Sharjah’s Emirati House initiative reached 2,640 children through heritage-focused programmes and workshops, using interactive learning to build pride in national identity. Summer Travel Readiness: Dubai Customs says it’s ready for peak season, with about 3 million passengers expected in early July and expanded screening capacity to keep travel fast and safe.

Strait of Hormuz Disruption: Oil tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has slowed to near standstill after renewed US-Iran escalation, with only two tankers transiting early Thursday and more ships reportedly switching off AIS, raising monitoring and safety concerns. UAE Humanitarian AI Push: The UAE Aid Agency ran a workshop bringing 40 donor entities together to build skills and capacity for using AI in humanitarian action, aiming to improve preparedness and emergency response. Abu Dhabi Health & Longevity Angle: Abu Dhabi is advancing its life sciences ambitions, with DoH–Abu Dhabi highlighting new partnerships to strengthen the HELM cluster and explore a regional logistics hub for innovative medicines. Circular Economy for Aviation: Dubai’s Supreme Council of Energy is exploring producing sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) from organic waste, aligning with circular economy goals and cleaner aviation. Marine Nature in Focus: Abu Dhabi Environment Agency completed a long-term survey mapping oyster beds across emirate waters, supporting better marine habitat protection. Tech for Transport Safety: Kazakhstan signed a term sheet with UAE AI firm Presight to develop a national operational intelligence platform for safer, more resilient transport networks. Heat & Road Safety: UAE car-repair experts warn that extreme summer heat can damage plastics, rubber and electronics in parked vehicles, leading to leaks and malfunctions. Wildlife Coexistence: A UAE herpetologist urges residents to avoid panic and harmful pest-control responses during snake, scorpion and spider encounters, stressing native wildlife’s role in local heritage.

Strait of Hormuz Disruption: Oil tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz hit a near standstill, with only two tankers crossing early Thursday as US-Iran tensions escalated and ships increasingly turned off public AIS tracking—raising risks for regional navigation and trade. Clean Mobility in Dubai: Dubai’s Community Development Authority signed with UAEV to roll out EV charging stations across Majlis and community venues, supporting the emirate’s Net Zero push and improving access for residents and visitors. EV Charging Expansion: DEWA announced “DEWA International,” a wholly owned subsidiary aimed at exporting Dubai’s energy and water know-how globally, while Dubai also moves ahead with ultrafast EV charging infrastructure for cleaner transport. Space for Navigation Accuracy: A UAE-designed Leonav-1 satellite launched to test low-Earth-orbit navigation signals, aiming to boost accuracy and efficiency for next-gen global navigation systems. Sustainability Education: SEWA launched its Future Engineer Summer Camp 2026, training 12–14-year-olds with workshops and field visits focused on electricity, water and sustainability. Marine Conservation: Abu Dhabi Environment Agency completed a long-term survey mapping oyster beds across emirate waters, supporting healthier coastal ecosystems.

UAE Sustainable Cities & Heritage: Ajman launched its Artisans Majlis (Dh1.8bn AM30x30 agenda) to preserve traditional Emirati crafts, train artisans, and expand local and international market access—while also backing inclusion for People of Determination. Heat & Energy Efficiency: Abu Dhabi rolled out a Cooling Load Manual to guide sustainable building design and cut energy waste, as authorities also warn about hotter, more humid summer conditions. Clean Mobility Push: ADNOC-backed plans point to future EV charging hubs, while DEWA continues adding charging points—signalling steady momentum for greener transport. Marine & Biodiversity Work: Abu Dhabi Environment Agency completed long-term mapping of oyster beds, supporting healthier marine ecosystems. Tech for Privacy & Safety: Researchers reported a moisture-activated, stretchable battery concept that can permanently disable IoT sensors—aimed at stronger privacy controls. Regional Context: The US and Iran escalated strikes around the Strait of Hormuz, keeping Gulf shipping and environmental risk concerns in focus.

Marine Habitat Mapping: Abu Dhabi Environment Agency has finished a multiyear survey mapping oyster beds across emirate waters, building a baseline to guide long-term marine management and potential protected habitat designations. Cultural Heritage Protection: The UAE Federal National Council approved a draft Cultural Heritage Law with fines up to Dh10 million and prison terms up to 10 years for serious offences, including damage, theft and unauthorised works—also covering digital heritage. Sustainable Energy & Buildings: Dubai Supreme Council of Energy reviewed progress on sustainable development goals and approved 2025 greenhouse gas results, citing cleaner energy, better electricity/water management and greener transport; it also explored sustainable aviation fuel from organic waste. Smart Mobility: Dubai Police launched second-generation “Ghiath” smart patrol vehicles in a BYD/Al-Futtaim partnership, aiming to strengthen smart policing transport. UAE Investment Spotlight: UNCTAD data says the UAE drew $48.3bn FDI inflows in 2025, ranking 9th globally, with greenfield projects second worldwide. Heat Risk Reminder: Tour de France coverage highlights record-breaking extreme heat conditions, underscoring the dangers of severe humidity and temperature.

Aviation & Climate: Emirates Group won the UAE’s Platinum Impact Seal for the second time, highlighting fuel-saving “Green Ops” and large SAF purchases that cut emissions, plus solar and recycling efforts. Clean Mobility: Dubai’s GCAA certified the world’s first purpose-built commercial vertiport for electric air taxis (VDX), clearing the way for Dubai’s air-taxi network. Sustainable Business: Dubai Chambers launched the “Business in Dubai” platform, a digital gateway with 65 services across finance, marketing, tech, and testing/certification to support growth and sustainable development. Energy & Environment Tech: Abu Dhabi University and ExxonMobil signed an MoU to build UAE STEM and AI talent. Water Security: UN experts warned the world is in “water bankruptcy,” urging a global freshwater governance framework ahead of the UN Water Conference in Abu Dhabi. Local Air Quality: Rain brought Dhaka “Moderate” air quality (AQI 77), while Dubai was listed at 134. Desert & Nature Tourism: Quad Bikes Dubai promoted guided ATV desert experiences in Al Badayer and Red Dunes, focused on safety and showcasing natural landscapes.

Maritime Security: The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) and the Joint Maritime Information Center raised the Strait of Hormuz threat level to “severe” after three tanker attacks in a day, including an LNG vessel fire off Oman and hits near Khor Fakkan and Musandam, with no reported casualties or environmental damage. Aviation Future: Dubai’s GCAA certified VDX, the world’s first purpose-built commercial vertiport for eVTOL air taxis, clearing the way for Air Taxi operations and expanding Dubai’s advanced air mobility network. Circular Textiles: Naseej signed 14 strategic MoUs to accelerate UAE textile circularity, building a national ecosystem from collection and sorting to reuse and recycling. Energy Trade: ADNOC signed a 15-year LNG Sales and Purchase Agreement with INPEX for 1 million tonnes per annum from Ruwais LNG, positioning it as a lower-carbon, flexible supply source. Education & AI: Alef Education and Microsoft trained about 25,000 educators across 710 UAE schools to boost responsible AI use in classrooms and administration. Local Tech for Creators: Dubai master’s students launched Creators Blueprint, using AI to turn Instagram audiences into sellable digital products and storefronts. Real Estate (Abu Dhabi): Modon’s Hudayriyat Golf Estates set a UAE launch sales record, topping AED13bn within days, with a “green spine” and wellness-focused masterplan.

Maritime Security: A tanker off Oman in the Strait of Hormuz caught fire after a projectile strike near Limah; UK maritime authorities said there was no environmental impact and an investigation is underway, as Iran-linked tensions keep shipping risks in focus. Clean Energy Markets: Abu Dhabi’s EWEC opened registration for its 20th Clean Energy Certificates auction (until July 31), letting companies buy certificates tied to 1 MWh of clean energy as renewable capacity expands. Energy & Industry: Fujairah signed an agreement with Etihad Refinery to buy gasoline output under a long-term framework, supporting downstream growth and energy security. Business & Sustainability: Shurooq says Sharjah Sustainable City construction is nearing key milestones, including a mosque at 70% completion and a new K-12 school planned for the community. UAE Innovation: Innovation City and IOPn secured exclusive access to the UAE’s first sovereign AI data centre in Ras Al Khaimah, with compute running live on UAE soil. Local Economy: ADNEC Group reported record AED9.2bn economic impact in 2025, driven by stronger event activity and hotel room nights.