FIFA Expects Record Revenue of $15 Billion
FIFA is anticipating a record $15 billion in revenue for the 2023-2026 cycle, largely driven by the success of the FIFA World Cup 2026. This unprecedented earnings forecast was announced by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who stated that the organization aims to \”unleash the commercial potential and opportunity that FIFA has\” to support global football development. The revenue will be reinvested into growing the game across its 211 member associations.
The success of the FIFA World Cup 2026 has opened up new opportunities for investment in the game, according to Infantino. He emphasized that the sporting side of the organization must be done correctly in order to achieve financial success. The record revenue is expected to have a significant impact on what FIFA can do globally, with the organization looking to put its unprecedented resources at the disposal of its member associations.
As a non-profit organization, FIFA invests its revenues from tournaments and events into growing the game across its member associations, with the FIFA World Cup being the largest contributor. The anticipated revenues from the 2023-2026 cycle will provide FIFA with unprecedented resources to support global football development.
The FIFA President\’s announcement highlights the organization\’s commitment to leveraging the commercial potential of the FIFA World Cup to drive growth and development in the sport. With the record revenue forecast, FIFA is poised to make a significant impact on the global football environment.
Dubai Smart Gates Eligibility Check
Skip Dubai Airport Queues with Smart Gates Eligibility Check
Travellers arriving at or departing from Dubai International Airport (DXB) can now check their eligibility for Smart Gates online before flying. The Smart Gates PreCheck tool allows passengers to scan their passports and confirm access to biometric gates, reducing immigration waiting times.
To check eligibility, travellers can use the Smart Gates PreCheck tool, which is accessible online. This tool takes less than a minute to complete and reveals whether passengers can skip traditional passport control queues and use biometric gates.
The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) Dubai has introduced this service to help travellers avoid traditional queues and utilize the expanding biometric border technology for faster processing. With this tool, passengers can clear immigration in just a few seconds.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligibility Check | Smart Gates PreCheck tool |
| Processing Time | <td Less than a minute
Required documents for the Smart Gates PreCheck tool include:
- A valid passport
- Access the Smart Gates PreCheck tool online.
- Scan your passport using the tool.
- Confirm your eligibility for Smart Gates.
Last updated: July 20, 2026
Dubai Airport capacity near full
Dubai Airports Defy Regional Tensions, Operate Near Full Capacity
Dubai International Airport, a major hub in the UAE, is operating near full capacity despite the ongoing regional conflict. According to Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, the airport has maintained strong passenger traffic, with airlines rerouting flights and Emirates offsetting some foreign carrier shortfalls.
The airport's resilience can be attributed to its effective management and the increased capacity provided by Emirates airline. As a result, Dubai Airport's operations have not been significantly impacted by the regional tensions, and it continues to serve as a major transit point for travelers.
The strong passenger traffic at Dubai Airport reflects the UAE's aviation infrastructure and its ability to adapt to challenging situations. With Emirates playing a crucial role in offsetting the shortfalls of foreign carriers, the airport has been able to maintain its operations and provide a seamless travel experience for passengers.
The fact that Dubai Airport is operating near full capacity is a positive sign for the UAE's economy, which relies heavily on tourism and travel. The airport's ability to withstand regional tensions and maintain its operations is a reflection of the country's strong aviation infrastructure and its commitment to providing a world-class travel experience.
Regarding the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, the airport's resilience and ability to operate near full capacity is a significant achievement. The agenda aims to make Dubai a leading hub for trade, tourism, and investment, and the airport's performance is a key indicator of the city's progress towards this goal.
As the regional situation continues to evolve, it is likely that Dubai Airport will remain a critical transit point for travelers. With its strong infrastructure and effective management, the airport is well-equipped to handle the challenges posed by regional tensions and continue to operate near full capacity.
US visa UAE: Students face appointment crisis
UAE Students Face US Visa Appointment Crisis
The US Embassy Abu Dhabi and US Consulate General Dubai are among the diplomatic posts affected by the limited routine visa operations in the region. UAE-based families are struggling to secure US visa appointments for university students, with high denial rates and canceled appointments. The situation remains fluid, with the US State Department advising Americans to depart several Middle Eastern countries due to serious safety risks.
US Visa Appointment Challenges for UAE Students
UAE students heading to US universities face significant challenges in securing US visa appointments. Denial rates for US Student visas have been high, with education experts citing documentation gaps, weak preparation, and unclear intent as common pitfalls. The US Embassy Abu Dhabi and US Consulate General Dubai have limited routine visa operations, and applicants are advised to check the official embassy websites daily for rescheduling guidance.
The US State Department has issued a travel advisory, urging Americans to depart several Middle Eastern countries, including the UAE, due to safety risks. This has resulted in canceled routine visa appointments and delays in visa processing. Airspace closures and flight suspensions are also limiting travel across the region, making it difficult for students to attend their visa interviews.
Impact on UAE Students and Families
The limited visa operations and high denial rates are causing significant disruptions for UAE students and families. Many students are facing uncertainty about their ability to attend their chosen universities in the US, and families are struggling to secure appointments for their children. The situation is further complicated by the requirement for students to apply for their visas in the country where they live, making it difficult for those who have already made travel arrangements.
Next Steps for UAE Students and Families
UAE students and families affected by the visa appointment crisis can check the official US Embassy and Consulate websites for updates on visa operations and rescheduling guidance. They can also consider seeking guidance from education experts and immigration lawyers to help navigate the complex visa application process. Additionally, students can review the interview wait times for the location where they will apply and plan accordingly.
The US State Department's advisory to Americans to depart several Middle Eastern countries has significant implications for US visa operations in the region. The limited routine visa operations and high denial rates are causing disruptions for UAE students and families, and it is essential for them to stay informed about the latest developments and seek guidance from relevant authorities.
UAE Events Visit Visa Explained
How to Apply for UAE Events Visit Visa
If you're planning to attend a conference, exhibition, or festival in the UAE, you may be eligible for the country's specialized Events Visit Visa. The General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA Dubai) has clarified the rules and application process for this dedicated entry permit.
The Events Visit Visa is a temporary entry permit that allows international visitors to attend or participate in economic, cultural, educational, sporting, religious, and community events across the UAE. It is intended for participants, exhibitors, and visitors attending conferences, summits, international exhibitions, conventions, and cultural, sports, and entertainment festivals. The visa is linked to approved events, with organizers required to obtain the necessary approvals and submit details of the event, including the number of expected international participants.
The organiser-led application process requires the hosting entity to apply for an approved participant quota, specifying the expected number of attendees. Once the quota is approved, organizers can sponsor visa applications for invited guests traveling to the UAE. Applicants must submit a sponsorship letter from the organizer outlining the nature of the event and its duration, along with other supporting documents. The visa caters to a wide range of events, including international conferences and corporate summits, trade exhibitions and business conventions, cultural, entertainment, and sports festivals, educational forums and academic gatherings, community programs and public events, and religious and economic meetings.
For event organizers, the process begins with obtaining the necessary approvals and submitting event details to the GDRFA Dubai. This includes specifying the expected number of international participants. Once approved, organizers can then sponsor visa applications for their invited guests. For international visitors, the application process involves submitting a sponsorship letter from the event organizer, along with other required documents.
Here are the steps to apply for the UAE Events Visit Visa:
- Check if the event you are attending is approved by the GDRFA Dubai.
- Obtain a sponsorship letter from the event organizer, outlining the nature of the event and its duration.
- Submit the sponsorship letter and other supporting documents to the GDRFA Dubai.
- Wait for the visa application to be processed and approved.
Dubai property transactions hit AED419.9 billion
Dubai Property Transactions Surge to AED419.9 Billion
Dubai\'s real estate market recorded AED419.9 billion in transactions during the first half of 2026, with 112,850 transactions taking place. Local investors and property buyers were involved in 86,000 deals worth more than AED286.44 billion in real estate sales. Completed property sales accounted for the largest share of total real estate sales, reaching AED146.69 billion across 27,160 transactions, while off-plan property sales totalled AED139.75 billion through 58,840 transactions.
The Dubai Land Department\'s data revealed a significant surge in Dubai\'s off-plan office market, with sales reaching AED13.1 billion across 1,668 deals. This surpasses the sector\'s combined sales over the previous seven years, from 2019 to 2025, which totalled AED5.48 billion across 1,821 deals. The record off-plan office sales indicate strong investor confidence and robust growth in Dubai\'s property market.
The Dubai Land Department\'s report on the first half of 2026 comes after a period of steady growth in the emirate\'s real estate sector. In 2025, Dubai witnessed a significant increase in property transactions, with the total value of real estate transactions reaching a record high.
112,850 transactions were recorded in the first half of 2026, with the majority being off-plan property sales. The Dubai Land Department\'s data provides insight into the emirate\'s real estate market, highlighting the growth and demand for property in Dubai.
This surge in Dubai\'s property market can be attributed to the emirate\'s business-friendly environment and attractive investment opportunities. The record off-plan office sales are a reflection of the confidence of investors in Dubai\'s real estate sector.
