Dubai’s glimpse of self-driving future and UAE’s economic growth, Gulf News Editors comment on September 27 trending news

DUBAI CELEBRATES SELF-DRIVING FUTURE: The third Dubai World Congress for Self-Driving Transport, hosted by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority, unveiled a thrilling glimpse into the future of autonomous mobility. The congress celebrated the winners of the Dubai World Challenge for Self-Driving Transport, a competition that drew over 2,000 international participants, 53 speakers, and 40 leading exhibitors in smart and sustainable mobility. The challenge, boasting a purse of $2.3 million, witnessed remarkable global participation, with King Long Co. from China emerging as the industry leader. Their self-driving bus, a technological marvel equipped with cameras and sensors, demonstrates the potential for safer, more efficient public transportation. Dubai’s relentless pursuit of cutting-edge mobility solutions is crucial for a sustainable and connected future. (By Jay Hilotin, Senior Assistant Editor)

UAE ECONOMY TO GROW 3%: Driven by growth in non-oil sectors like tourism, government initiatives and technology, the UAE’s economy is set to grow by 3 per cent in 2023 and 4 per cent in 2024. According to S&P, the robust tourism sector and international events are key to attracting 40 million visitors by 2030, with plans for 250,000 more hotel rooms. The UAE banking sector also remains strong, with rising interest rates improving profitability. Dubai’s real estate sector will see stable housing prices and strong demand. S&P highlighted key contributors: oil and gas, wholesale trade, industry, real estate, construction, financial services, and tourism. The non-oil economy will be bolstered by inflows of expatriates and tourists and positive sentiment from investors, consumers, and the private sector. (By Dhanusha Gokulan, Chief Reporter)

BIDEN WALKS THE PICKET LINE: First it was Biden. Then Trump. After Joe Biden became the first sitting president in US history to walk a picket line, former president Donald Trump will join workers in Michigan who are pushing for higher wages and shorter work weeks. Both candidates for the 2024 presidential poll are trying to portray themselves as champions of the working class. Irrespective of who the workers vote for, they clearly have support from the top. After all, Michigan is expected to be a key battleground state in the race for the White House. (By Alex Abraham, Senior Associate Editor)

DEFYING BOLLYWOOD BIAS: Bollywood A-lister Kareena Kapoor Khan, who recently debuted on Netflix with the thriller ‘Jaane Jaan,’ reflects on a time when societal expectations threatened her career. “People thought my career was over when I got married. But today, with two children, I am still turning down movie roles,” Kapoor Khan said in an interview with Gulf News, highlighting the prevalent sexism and gender bias in the Indian film industry. Despite these challenges, the 43-year-old has consistently defied stereotypes, maintaining relevance for over two decades through a diverse portfolio of blockbusters and art-house films. But not everyone is as fortunate as Kareena Kapoor Khan. Many actresses in Bollywood have seen their career nosedive when they get married or have children. But Kapoor Khan’s ascent proves that times are changing. (By Manjusha Radhakrishnan, Entertainment Editor)

PADEL’S PHENOMENAL GROWTH: Padel has been making giant strides in the UAE. One of the reasons is the ease with which anyone could take to the sport. More encouragement comes in the form of two big announcements. First, the traditional Dubai Rugby Sevens has included a padel tournament in their schedule, which points to the burgeoning interest. The inaugural Arab Padel Championships, which began on Wednesday, has seen the participating countries grow from six to 11 in six months. At this rate, padel could become the most popular sport in the region. (By A.K.S. Satish, Sports Editor)