Half of government services in the UAE will be provided using AI
Within two years, the UAE will transfer 50% of government services, sectors, and operations to autonomous artificial intelligence systems (agentic AI). This model is capable of independently executing tasks, managing processes, and supporting decision-making without human intervention. All government employees will undergo specialized training, and ministers’ performance will be assessed based on how quickly they implement AI.
Number of tourists from Russia to China grew by 205% in 2025
In the first quarter of 2026, 21.3 million foreigners crossed China’s borders (+22.3% year-on-year), with over 8.3 million entering under visa-free arrangements. The Russian tourist flow increased by 205%, and the number of visitors from Australia, Indonesia, Thailand, and the UK is also growing rapidly (more than 100% growth). Tourists are increasingly choosing not only Beijing and Shanghai but also smaller cities with immersive local culture: Datong, for example, saw a 735% increase.
Real estate prices in the UAE fell for the first time since the coronavirus pandemic
The ValuStrat home price index in March 2026 dropped by 5.9% compared to the previous month — the first decline since 2020 — amid regional instability that weakened demand. In response, Dubai authorities approved a business support package worth 1 billion dirhams ($272.3 million), including deferrals of government fees (including 100% of tourism fees for hotels) and extending the grace period for customs payments from 30 to 90 days.
Iran received its first revenue from tolls for crossing the Strait of Hormuz
Hamid Reza Haji Babaei, Vice Chairman of the Iranian Parliament, stated that the first revenue from tolls for ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz has been deposited into the Central Bank’s account. Earlier, the IRGC again closed the strait to most commercial vessels due to the US naval blockade of Iranian ports, and on April 22, two ships (one Israeli and another) attempting to secretly leave the area were detained.
Robot beats human in a marathon for the first time in China
At the Beijing Humanoid Robot Half Marathon on April 19, 2026, the robot «Lightning» (developed by Honor) finished in 50 minutes and 26 seconds, nearly 7 minutes faster than the human world record (57:20). For comparison, in 2025, the winner completed the race in 2 hours and 40 minutes.
