UAE and Germany expand economic ties with a €40 billion cross-sector investment plan. A significant portion of the funding will be directed toward enhancing digital infrastructure across Germany. The joint declaration from both governments detailed plans to establish new data centres with an aggregate capacity of approximately 1 gigawatt. Germany pledged to facilitate the conditions necessary for their development. This initiative forms part of a broader set of economic agreements unveiled during the state visit. Both nations also committed to cooperation in technology, energy, trade, investment, and other sectors integral to their bilateral relationship. The trip also resulted in the signing of 29 business agreements and memoranda of understanding between UAE and German firms, with their combined value surpassing €9.356 billion, according to the joint declaration. Furthermore, the two governments agreed to set up a German-UAE Investment Council, serving as a platform to promote investment and collaboration between government agencies and private enterprises. Additionally, a Strategic Dialogue was initiated, focusing on economic, technological, security, energy, transport, environmental, cultural, and educational cooperation. UAE’s €40 Billion Investment Focuses on Industry and Digital Infrastructure Development This €40 billion pledge builds upon other substantial UAE investments in Germany. According to the joint declaration, XRG has invested around €15 billion in Covestro. The two countries also identified additional corporate investment and partnership plans involving Covestro, RWE, ADNOC, and Masdar. These initiatives are separate from the newly announced investment package but complement the overarching €40 billion
UAE-Germany talks in Berlin highlight expanding strategic and economic cooperation. The ministers explored avenues for expanding their strategic alliance and enhancing cooperation in various sectors. Sheikh Abdullah emphasized that the UAE-Germany relationship remains strong and adaptable, with ongoing growth. He highlighted their mutual dedication to building on existing successes and promoting sustainable economic prosperity. During the meeting, Wadephul and Sheikh Abdullah shared perspectives on common issues and approaches to crisis resolution through diplomatic channels.
Health
A severe lack of trained healthcare workers, operational partners, and financial backing is creating a critical bottleneck in efforts to contain the growing Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. As per technical briefings from the World Health Organization, the outbreak has extended beyond its initial focus in Bunia to involve six northeastern provinces. The current epidemic, caused by the Bundibugyo species of the virus, has recorded more than 6,000 cases and 3,175 deaths, making it the deadliest Ebola outbreak in the country’s history. International agencies highlight that staffing shortages and inadequate funding are hindering Ebola containment efforts, urging global donors to accelerate their financial support.
Travel
Etihad Airways is set to commence year-round flights connecting Abu Dhabi with Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast starting on Oct. 4, 2026. The route will link Zayed International Airport to Red Sea International Airport located in Tabuk Province. Initially, the airline will operate one flight per week, increasing to two flights weekly from Oct. 25. The journey duration is just over three hours, making it the sixth Saudi destination in Etihad’s network.
Technology
Apple has introduced the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, both featuring significant upgrades in camera technology, performance, and battery life. The new devices showcase a 48-megapixel Fusion Main camera with a variable aperture, marking a first for the iPhone lineup. Powered by the new A20 Pro chip and equipped with a revamped thermal system, these models are available for preorders starting September 12, with in-store sales beginning September 18 across more than 65 countries and regions.