"Les affaires comme d'habitude": les EAU se préparent à la reprise de septembre malgré le spectre de la guerre en Iran

The United Arab Emirates is preparing for a September resurgence, with major infrastructure projects advancing and the annual conference season resuming in full force, according to local experts. Despite ongoing concerns over the Iran war, officials and industry leaders are expressing confidence that the country will maintain its momentum, with a focus on restoring normalcy amid lingering uncertainties. As school terms resume and families return from summer vacations, the UAE is entering one of its busiest months of the year. This seasonal shift typically triggers a surge in economic activity, with increased tourism and heightened commercial operations. This year, however, the recovery is being framed as more than just a routine cycle. Experts suggest that the nation is navigating a gradual normalization rather than a sudden rebound, shaped by both the natural rhythm of the calendar and the resilience shown during the recent geopolitical tensions. Charlie Lovett, co-founder and head of growth at the used-car platform Carabia, noted that September has historically served as a reset period for the UAE. With families returning home, schools reopening and events restarting, businesses often find themselves moving back into high gear following a slower summer. This year, though, the backdrop of the Iran war introduced a layer of complexity. While the conflict initially created a sense of disruption, it also fostered a spirit of unity and continuity, helping to mitigate its broader impact on daily life. Lovett emphasized that businesses are adapting to the current environment by embracing a mindset of cautious optimism. Rather than waiting for complete certainty, companies are choosing to operate with confidence, recognizing that uncertainty is now part of the landscape. This approach is reflected in the increasing number of scheduled events and the steady flow of bookings, indicating a slow but consistent return to pre-conflict levels of engagement. To support this transition, the UAE government has implemented several economic relief measures aimed at stabilizing the business and tourism sectors. A Dh1.5 billion ($408 million) incentive package in Dubai includes the suspension of certain taxes, such as the nightly hotel tax and the 7 percent municipal tax applied to hospitality services. These adjustments aim to ease the financial burden on businesses and encourage continued investment in the sector. Major international conferences and exhibitions are playing a crucial role in reinforcing Dubai’s position as a global hub. Events such as the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, Education Interface, and Arabian Travel Market are set to take place throughout the month, drawing participants from around the world. These gatherings not only contribute directly to the economy but also send a powerful signal about the city’s stability and openness to international collaboration. The expansion of the rail network further underscores the UAE’s commitment to enhancing connectivity and fostering economic integration. Etihad Rail will commence operations in Dubai at the end of the month, with a new station opening in Jumeirah Golf Estate. This development is expected to boost confidence among residents and investors alike, reinforcing the idea that the UAE is becoming an increasingly interconnected and cohesive economic entity.