Business from Monday, February 2nd, 2026

Kristalina Georgieva, Managing Director of International Monetary Fund (IMF), has commended the UAE's non-oil trade growth as a testimony of its successful efforts at diversifying its economy, during her opening address at Arab Fiscal Forum.

India pushed manufacturing to the forefront of its budget as it prioritised sectors such as semiconductors, biopharma and renewables, but stopped short of the bold reforms sought by investors to boost investment amid rising geopolitical tensions.

Dubai Duty Free (DDF) has posted its strongest January performance on record, achieving AED858.21 million in sales, an 18.53 per cent increase over January 2025.

Dubai’s health insurance system recorded significant growth in coverage indicators and operational activity during 2025 compared to 2024, according to the latest data issued Dubai Health Authority.

The UAE has partnered with Estonia to strengthen cooperation in audit and oversight, exchanging institutional expertise, and leveraging modern technologies to advance audit systems and digital governance.