Recent claims that gold prices in India have become cheaper than in the UAE are being strongly denied by UAE jewellers, who maintain that buying gold in the UAE remains more cost-effective. Import Duty Reduction in India India’s recent move to reduce gold import duty from 15% to 6% has narrowed the price gap, but…
The UAE is gearing up for the next big public holiday, with National Day just around the corner. You might have heard the upcoming celebration referred to as “Eid Al Etihad” – but don’t be mistaken, it’s simply the new name for the UAE National Day celebrations. This year, the country will enjoy a long,…
Ajman NuVentures Centre Free Zone (ANCFZ), the newest free zone in the UAE, has attracted over 450 companies in less than two months. Located in the heart of Ajman, ANCFZ stands out for its fully digital business setup process, allowing investors to sign documents online without needing to print or download forms. Rishi Somaiya, CEO…
The Ras Al Khaimah Department of Knowledge (RAK DOK) has unveiled a Golden Visa programme tailored to private school educators, granting self-sponsored, long-term residency to eligible professionals. This initiative underscores RAK’s commitment to enhancing the education sector and retaining top talent. Who Can Apply? The programme targets two categories: Eligibility Criteria Applicants must meet the…
Dubai’s Gold Souk Extension is offering an incredible prize: a 24K gold-plated Tesla Cybertruck. This iconic electric vehicle, known for its futuristic design, is up for grabs in a raffle that could be yours with just a little shopping. From November 14 to December 29, shoppers who spend Dh500 at participating outlets in the Gold…
Indian investors have emerged as a key force behind the thriving real estate market in Expo City Dubai, ranking among the top three buyers of residential and commercial properties, according to Ahmed Al Khatib, Chief Development and Delivery Officer, Expo City Dubai. In a recent episode of the State of Economy Podcast, Al Khatib highlighted…
Kerala has emerged as the state with the highest household debt in India, as revealed in the latest NABARD report, which surveyed over one lakh households across the country. The report, which covers the period from July 2021 to June 2022, highlights the financial challenges faced by households in the state, particularly in the wake…
Passengers at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport are facing frustratingly long waits for taxis due to high demand and limited supply. With a surge in traveller numbers, many are finding themselves stuck in lengthy queues at the dedicated taxi stands. A viral video shared by Karnataka Portfolio on social media captured the scene, showing a long…
Over the past decade, tax policies under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration have led to a significant shift in the income tax landscape, with a notable increase in the number of high-income individuals declaring annual earnings above Rs 50 lakh. This change has enabled a reduction in the tax burden on India’s middle class, defined…
Emirates airline has partnered with Spotify to offer passengers a new audio experience, now accessible on flights to over 140 destinations. Through Emirates’ ICE inflight entertainment system, travelers can enjoy Spotify’s extensive selection of podcasts and playlists right from their seat. Spotify’s curated content on Emirates includes a diverse range of podcasts available in English,…
n today’s globally connected world, a passport’s strength symbolizes more than just travel freedom; it reflects a nation’s diplomatic ties, international relations, and global influence. The Passport Index 2024 highlights these dynamics, ranking passports based on their “mobility scores” — the number of countries accessible without a visa or with visa-on-arrival access. This year, the…
Starting November 11, 2024, Vietnam’s revamped e-Visa portal will simplify travel for international visitors. This user-friendly platform enhances the application experience, offers expanded stay options, and allows entry through 42 designated entry points, supporting Vietnam’s growing tourism sector. What is an E-Visa? An e-Visa is a digital entry permit that travelers can apply for online…