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The automotive industry faces critical hurdles surrounding energy efficiency, vehicle weight, and charging infrastructure, as the global transition toward electric mobility accelerates.

Historically, manufacturers addressed range anxiety by integrating increasingly larger battery packs. However, this approach inherently adds substantial weight, compromising overall driving efficiency. Today, the focus is shifting toward an alternative solution: advanced thermal management. By regulating heat generation more effectively, engineers can extract greater performance and faster charging capabilities from smaller, more compact battery systems.

Demonstrating the viability of this approach, Shell Lubricants showcased a highly specialised proof-of-concept vehicle at ADIPEC 2026 in Abu Dhabi. The showcase highlighted how next-generation fluid technologies can fundamentally alter the physics of electric vehicle (EV) charging, negating the need for oversized battery architectures.

Overcoming the charging bottleneck

Presented as the Triple 10 Challenge car, the concept vehicle serves as a working exploration into the future of electric mobility. Rather than equipping the vehicle with a cumbersome battery pack, engineering teams combined a compact energy storage system with pioneering thermal fluid technology. This architecture is designed specifically to manage heat distribution across the vehicle during high-stress operations.

The project was anchored around three defining ambitions:

• Achieving a charging cycle from 10% to 80% in under 10 minutes.

• Reaching a driving efficiency metric of 10 kilometres per kilowatt-hour (km/kWh).

• Targeting a total lifecycle carbon footprint of approximately 10 tonnes of CO2 equivalent (CO2e).

During testing, the vehicle charged from 10% to 80% in just 9 minutes and 54 seconds. Notably, this was achieved using a standard 175 kW public charger, adding 24 kilometres of driving range for every minute plugged in. The design targets 10 km/kWh driving efficiency, representing an improvement of more than 30% compared with many current-generation electric vehicles.

Next-generation thermal fluid technology

At the core of this engineering breakthrough is the Shell Recharge Thermal Fluid. This specialised dielectric fluid facilitates a dual-cooling approach that manages thermal loads dynamically. It enables direct immersion cooling for battery cells, ensuring uniform temperature regulation, while providing indirect cooling for powertrain components, including the electric motor and power electronics. This supports a simplified cooling architecture, reducing the thermal stress typically caused by fast charging.

Addressing this development, Haytham Yehia, General Manager, Shell Lubricants Middle East, Egypt and Central Asia, stated: "The Shell Triple 10 Challenge concept car is a powerful example of how we're taking our expertise in advanced fluids beyond traditional lubrication. We're increasingly looking at how our technology can help customers address challenges around efficiency, performance and thermal management. For the Middle East, where we see growing opportunities across mobility, digital infrastructure and industrial applications, innovations like these demonstrate the value of combining Shell's global technology capabilities with strong regional partnerships."

Expanding cooling solutions across industries

The implications of sophisticated thermal management extend beyond the automotive sector. Alongside the concept car, the showcase featured comprehensive portfolios of coolants and immersion cooling solutions tailored for broader industrial demands. As global reliance on artificial intelligence and cloud computing intensifies, data centres and battery energy storage systems face unprecedented cooling requirements. Specialised fluids are becoming essential to maintain operational reliability.

Aysun Akik, Shell Lubricants’ Vice President of New Business Development and Global Key Accounts, highlighted this potential: "It's exciting to bring the Triple 10 Challenge concept car to ADIPEC and give visitors the opportunity to see the technology up close. What makes this concept so interesting is how much difference effective thermal management can make to EV performance. We've also had some great conversations with customers and partners about how advanced cooling technologies can support their own operations, and we're looking forward to building on those discussions beyond ADIPEC."

The exhibition coincided with the company marking 20 consecutive years as the world's number one finished lubricants supplier, according to Kline & Company's 2026, 24th Edition Global Lubricants Market Analysis and Assessment. Through ongoing technical innovation, advanced fluid capabilities continue to address changing requirements across mobility, energy, and digital infrastructure.

Water security has become one of the most pressing challenges of the twenty-first century, particularly in growing urban environments.

As cities expand, the sustainable management of water resources is no longer a luxury but an absolute necessity for economic stability and societal wellbeing. Balancing demand with environmental preservation requires proactive planning, innovative technology, and institutional collaboration.

Leading this charge towards integrated water-resource management is Abu Dhabi, which is actively advancing comprehensive strategies to safeguard its future. Recently, the Water Sector Steering Committee held a strategic workshop to review the implementation of vital projects, establish priorities for 2027, and assess long-term sustainability targets through to 2035. This effort brought together representatives from government entities and water-sector companies across the emirate, setting a firm foundation ahead of Abu Dhabi Water & Power Week 2026.

Building a resilient framework for water security

The workshop served as a platform to strengthen institutional coordination among strategic partners, ensuring that infrastructure investments align seamlessly with long-term environmental objectives. Discussions reinforced an integrated approach to planning, focusing heavily on operational preparedness, supply security, and system efficiency.

Highlighting the critical nature of these initiatives, His Excellency Dr Abdulla Humaid Al Jarwan, Chairman of the Department of Energy – Abu Dhabi, opened the proceedings. He noted that proactive planning serves as a fundamental pillar of national security, quality of life, and sustainable development.

He stated: “Water security is fundamental to national security and sustainable economic and social development. In Abu Dhabi, we continue to strengthen an integrated and resilient water system through proactive planning, efficient resource management and infrastructure readiness, ensuring reliable and continuous water supplies while supporting future growth. Our Integrated Water Strategy brings institutions and stakeholders together around three strategic objectives: securing water supplies, safeguarding the sustainability of our resources and strengthening Abu Dhabi’s competitiveness.”

Key priorities and infrastructure targets for 2035

To reinforce system resilience, authorities have established ambitious priorities designed to deliver measurable environmental outcomes by 2035. Notable goals include achieving groundwater net zero and reaching zero discharge of treated wastewater into the environment, vastly supporting the greater utilisation of available resources.

Expanding on these goals, His Excellency Dr Abdulla Humaid Al Jarwan added: “As we move into the next phase, our focus is on accelerating priority projects, improving water efficiency, protecting groundwater resources and strengthening governance and performance monitoring. We are committed to ensuring that our plans and investments deliver measurable outcomes that support Abu Dhabi’s targets through 2035 and reinforce the long-term resilience and sustainability of our water system for future generations.”

Specific strategic measures discussed include:

• Groundwater conservation: Reducing groundwater abstraction by 500 million cubic metres by 2030, with projects covering half of this reduction already identified.

• Supply security: Developing emergency water supply capacity and enhancing response arrangements to maintain reliable services under exceptional circumstances.

• Policy development: Proposing the Abu Dhabi Water Balance Sheet Policy to provide an overview of water sources, consumption patterns, and opportunities to improve efficiency.

Driving efficiency in the agricultural sector

Agriculture remains a focal point for water conservation efforts. The workshop reviewed substantial progress regarding water-efficiency initiatives tailored for this sector. These advancements aim to foster sustainable irrigation practices, improve consumption monitoring, and encourage innovative technologies that support sustainable agricultural production.

Key agricultural milestones include:

• The launch of four major irrigation infrastructure projects.

• The successful completion of a pilot phase that installed 80 agricultural water meters.

• The implementation and monitoring of 18 model farm pilots.

Setting the stage for global collaboration

These planning sessions directly support preparations for Abu Dhabi Water & Power Week 2026, taking place from 8 to 10 December at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi. The event will serve as a premier platform to showcase strategic projects, present energy priorities, and introduce innovative technological solutions.

The Department of Energy – Abu Dhabi actively invites stakeholders, technology providers, and investors to participate and visit the Abu Dhabi Pavilion. By fostering collaborative partnerships and advancing investment in sustainable infrastructure, Abu Dhabi reinforces its position as a leading global centre for innovation in the energy and water sectors.

Dubai's urban landscape is undergoing a profound transformation as development accelerates across its southern growth corridor.

Driven by strategic investments in Al Maktoum International Airport and Expo City Dubai, this area is rapidly establishing itself as the city’s next residential and economic frontier. As essential infrastructure expands, including connections to Sheikh Zayed Road, the district is drawing large-scale masterplans designed for long-term demographic growth.

Aligning with this pattern of expansion, Nakheel, a member of Dubai Holding Real Estate, has unveiled Palm Springs. Situated adjacent to Palm Jebel Ali, this sustainable community represents a monumental addition to southern Dubai. The development is poised to address the rising demand for comprehensive, self-sustaining neighbourhoods in one of the fastest-developing regions of the emirate, setting a new benchmark for mixed-use urban planning.

Introducing Palm Springs: A masterplan for generations

Spanning 3.8 million square metres, the Palm Springs masterplan is meticulously designed to accommodate almost 50,000 residents. The scale of the project highlights an urban planning shift towards creating fully integrated districts that function as independent ecosystems. The residential mix will offer a diverse variety of living options, comprising modern villas, townhouses, and apartments intelligently distributed across 15 distinct neighbourhoods.

A core philosophy driving Palm Springs is the simultaneous delivery of residential units alongside civic and social infrastructure. This proactive strategy ensures the district can function cohesively as soon as it welcomes its first inhabitants.

Khalid Al Malik, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Holding Real Estate, emphasised the strategic vision behind the development: “Palm Springs reflects our long-term confidence in southern Dubai and its role in the city’s future. With Palm Jebel Ali nearby, our focus is on creating a community that brings homes and supporting infrastructure together from the outset. This is how we approach Dubai’s next phase of growth: planning for generations, with lasting value at the heart of the masterplan.”

A focus on comprehensive community living

To cultivate a thriving family environment, Palm Springs will integrate vital services directly into its residential fabric. The masterplan places education, healthcare, and essential services within easy reach of every home.

Key community facilities embedded within the development will include:

• Two schools carefully planned to serve the educational needs of a growing population.

• A fully equipped hospital providing healthcare services to the immediate area.

• Six mosques strategically located across the various neighbourhoods.

• A dedicated Country Club and a Sports Club, offering premium recreational, fitness, and play facilities.

• A curated selection of retail destinations and cultural venues, enlivened by ongoing cultural programming.

By embedding these facilities alongside residences, the developers are creating vibrant places for people to interact and spend quality time beyond their front doors.

Sustainable infrastructure and environmental certification

A defining characteristic of Palm Springs is its rigorous commitment to environmental performance. In a significant milestone for the organisation, the development has been awarded LEED for Communities Platinum Precertification. This marks the first time a Nakheel community has achieved this standard, underlining a firm dedication to creating sustainable destinations.

The masterplan incorporates the latest advancements in water, energy, and waste management solutions. These systems are integrated throughout the community to help lower carbon emissions and promote responsible resource consumption. Furthermore, the district features climate-sensitive infrastructure tailored to the local environment, maintaining a strong emphasis on optimising energy efficiency.

Green spaces and active living

Recognising the importance of public wellbeing, the masterplan dedicates approximately 593,000 square metres to planned open spaces. This allocation includes a prominent central park alongside beautifully landscaped areas that act as the green lungs of the community.

The outdoor infrastructure is deliberately designed to encourage active, healthy lifestyles:

• More than 35 kilometres of dedicated cycling, jogging, and walking routes will seamlessly link the 15 neighbourhoods with local parks, retail centres, and leisure destinations.

• Climate-responsive landscaping and shaded corridors are incorporated to make everyday outdoor movement comfortable throughout the year.

• Expansive green areas are specifically intended to support the mental and physical wellbeing of residents and visitors.

As southern Dubai takes on an increasingly prominent role in the city’s development narrative, Palm Springs stands as a prime example of future-proof urban planning. Positioned beside Palm Jebel Ali, it represents a forward-thinking approach to sustainable, community-centric living.

Volvo Group has announced the creation of a dedicated business entity named Volvo Mining, designed to capture the growing global demand in the mining sector by unifying its extensive capabilities under a single integrated structure.

Scheduled to launch on January 1, 2027, and hosted within Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE), the new organisation aims to streamline how the group serves mining customers and contractors worldwide.

The establishment of this specialised entity comes as the mining industry enters a new phase of growth and transformation, requiring heightened focus on productivity, safety, and resilience. Volvo Mining is planned to sell Volvo trucks, construction equipment, and autonomous solutions directly to mining clients and their contractors, backed by dedicated financial resources and global portfolio management.

Strategic integration and leadership

The initiative seeks to bring together decades of industry experience and combine capabilities from across the entire group in collaboration with retail partners. Per-Erik Lindström, currently Senior Vice President Volvo Trucks International, has been appointed as the Head of Volvo Mining, effective January 1, 2027.

“As the mining industry evolves, customers are looking for partners who can help them improve productivity, strengthen safety and meet growing sustainability expectations. Our goal is to be a long-term partner in that transformation, helping customers create greater value through the combined strengths of Volvo Group. I look forward to working closely with customers and partners as we build this next chapter together,” stated Per-Erik Lindström.

Melker Jernberg, President of Volvo CE, emphasised the strategic significance of the move: “Mining has been an important part of the Volvo Group for decades, but the industry's growing significance calls for an even greater level of focus. With Volvo Mining as our center of expertise, we are combining capabilities from across the Group to further enhance customer value in collaboration with our retail partners. This will create new opportunities to strengthen our position in a strategically important and growing segment.”

Initial rollout and regional focus

Initially, Volvo Mining will concentrate its operations on mining customers and contractors located in Sweden, Norway, and Finland, with a clear ambition for phased expansion into additional international markets over time.

Roger Alm, President of Volvo Trucks, highlighted the long-term nature of client investments in the sector: “Success in the mining industry is built over time. Customers make long-term investments and value trusted partners that combine high performance, operational expertise, and a deep understanding of their business. By creating one organization focused solely on creating a world-class product and services portfolio for the mining industry, with an end-to-end perspective, we can better leverage the Volvo Group offer in a more seamless approach.”

Core advantages for modern operations

Modern mining operations require multiple machine categories and specialised vehicles to function in harmony across rigorous conditions. Key operational areas include:

• Excavation and rigorous ground-breaking tasks

• Hauling and heavy material transport

• Loading operations in remote sites

• Safe movement across challenging environments

Nils Jaeger, President of Volvo Autonomous Solutions, noted how advanced technology plays a role in this structure: “By combining our proven autonomous technology and operational experience with Volvo Group's broader expertise, portfolio and customer relationships, we can provide integrated solutions that also deliver measurable value for mining customers – improving safety, productivity and efficiency across their operations.”

Establishing a clear baseline for environmental impact is no longer optional; it is a critical necessity.

In a significant milestone for regional climate initiatives, Dubai Municipality has successfully achieved certification of conformity with ISO 14064-1, the international standard for quantifying and reporting greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

This landmark announcement, confirmed on the 5th of November 2026, places the municipality at the forefront of sustainable urban governance. By adopting one of the world’s most rigorous carbon accounting frameworks, the organisation is demonstrating a tangible commitment to accurate environmental reporting, setting a powerful precedent for both the public and private sectors across the United Arab Emirates.

The importance of rigorous emissions tracking

Historically, estimating an organisation's carbon footprint often involved disparate methodologies and estimations, making it difficult to compare environmental performance accurately. The ISO 14064-1 standard fundamentally changes this paradigm. It provides a highly structured, universally recognised method for calculating greenhouse gas emissions across all areas of operation.

Rather than relying on approximations, the standard requires comprehensive data collection, meticulous inventory preparation, and stringent verification processes. For an entity as large and multifaceted as Dubai Municipality—which oversees a vast array of civic services, urban planning projects, and public facilities—implementing this framework is a monumental operational achievement. It ensures that every tonne of carbon dioxide equivalent is accounted for, providing a clear and trusted picture of the municipality's environmental footprint.

Core benefits of the ISO 14064-1 framework

The adoption of the ISO 14064-1 standard offers numerous operational and strategic advantages that extend far beyond regulatory compliance. By achieving this certification, Dubai Municipality can leverage several key benefits:

• Accurate data collection: The standard mandates precise measurement of all greenhouse gas sources, ensuring that the organisation's environmental reports are based on empirical evidence rather than estimates.

• Targeted reduction strategies: With a detailed inventory of emissions, decision-makers can identify specific operational areas that contribute most heavily to the carbon footprint, allowing for highly targeted and effective reduction initiatives.

• Enhanced risk management: Understanding emission patterns helps the organisation anticipate and mitigate climate-related risks, ensuring long-term operational resilience.

• Elevated public trust: Third-party verification of environmental data builds credibility with residents, investors, and international partners, proving that the municipality is genuinely committed to its climate responsibilities.

• Benchmarking and continual improvement: The certification provides a solid baseline from which to measure future progress, encouraging a culture of continual environmental improvement across all municipal departments.

Aligning with the UAE’s sustainability vision

Dubai Municipality’s recent certification does not exist in a vacuum; it is deeply intertwined with the broader sustainability ambitions of the United Arab Emirates. As the nation continues to transition towards a greener economy, initiatives that promote carbon accountability are vital. The UAE has launched numerous programmes aimed at reducing national carbon emissions, increasing the share of clean energy, and fostering sustainable urban development.

By securing the ISO 14064-1 accreditation, the municipality directly supports these national objectives. It ensures that Dubai's urban management and civic operations are fully aligned with federal climate goals. Furthermore, this achievement acts as a catalyst for the local business community. When a leading government body adopts such stringent environmental standards, it encourages private enterprises across Dubai and the wider region to follow suit, creating a ripple effect that amplifies the nation's overall sustainability efforts.

A framework for future climate action

Measuring and reporting greenhouse gas emissions is the foundational step in any meaningful climate strategy. You cannot manage what you do not measure. With the ISO 14064-1 certification securely in place, Dubai Municipality is now uniquely positioned to implement advanced, data-backed carbon reduction programmes.

As urban populations grow and the challenges of climate change become more pronounced, the need for sustainable city management has never been more urgent. This certification is not merely an administrative accolade; it represents a comprehensive commitment to safeguarding the environment for future generations. By embracing international best practices for emissions tracking, Dubai Municipality is not just planning for a sustainable future—it is actively building the framework to achieve it.

The annual Hajj and year-round Umrah pilgrimages present one of the most complex logistical challenges in the world.

With millions converging on Saudi Arabia, maintaining a seamless supply chain is vital. Addressing this colossal seasonal demand, Federal Express Corporation (FedEx) has taken centre stage at the sixth Hajj Conference and Exhibition in Jeddah, showcasing targeted logistics solutions designed to support businesses throughout the pilgrimage season.

Understanding the scale of pilgrimage demand

The sheer volume of visitors travelling to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia creates an immense, concentrated spike in demand for essential goods and services. According to the General Authority for Statistics, more than 1.7 million pilgrims undertook the Hajj journey in 2026 alone. When combined with the millions of worshippers who visit the country annually to perform Umrah, the economic and operational footprint is remarkably vast.

This influx generates significant seasonal pressure across multiple key sectors. Retailers, hospitality providers, healthcare facilities, and dedicated pilgrimage service operators all face the daunting task of scaling their operations rapidly. To meet the needs of these worshippers, timely access to goods and supplies is absolutely critical. Without a robust and highly responsive supply chain, the infrastructure supporting these millions of visitors could face severe disruptions. The ability to forecast, manage, and execute precise logistics operations is therefore a cornerstone of a successful pilgrimage season.

Targeted logistics solutions for seasonal peaks

To alleviate the immense pressure on local businesses, global logistics providers are continually refining their service offerings. Operating out of Booth N32 at the Jeddah exhibition until November 11, FedEx is currently highlighting a suite of specialised solutions tailored to the unique requirements of the Hajj and Umrah sectors. Through an expansive global network and refined local operations, these capabilities are designed to help businesses plan shipments meticulously, manage sudden shifts in demand, and maintain uninterrupted supply chain continuity.

The services highlighted at the exhibition focus on addressing the distinct needs of various commercial sectors:

• Time-sensitive shipments: Advanced international shipping and streamlined customs clearance capabilities are deployed to assist pilgrimage operators in managing urgent logistical requirements without delay.

• Retail and souvenir trade: Bespoke import and export solutions empower local retailers and souvenir suppliers to maintain optimal inventory levels during peak visitor periods.

• Hospitality and catering: Regional road freight services are heavily utilised to support the continuous movement of bulk hospitality supplies and fresh catering materials across the region.

• Healthcare and pharmaceuticals: Specialised healthcare logistics solutions are implemented for critical items. This includes temperature-controlled shipping and the deployment of FedEx Surround® Monitoring and Intervention, which provides enhanced visibility and rigorous control for highly sensitive medical shipments.

Strengthening supply chains in Saudi Arabia

As the world’s largest express transportation company, FedEx recognises the unique pressures faced by commercial operators in the region.

“Hajj and Umrah create significant demand for businesses serving millions of pilgrims, making reliable logistics and timely access to essential goods increasingly important,” said Abdulrahman Al-Mubarak, Managing Director Operations for FedEx Middle East, Indian Subcontinent and Africa. “For these businesses, planning shipments in advance is critical to ensuring goods and supplies are available when and where they are needed. By combining our global network with our direct operations and customs clearance capabilities in Saudi Arabia, FedEx helps businesses manage time-sensitive shipments, respond to changing demand, and maintain reliable access to international markets.”

Aligning with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030

These strategic logistics enhancements align directly with the broader objectives outlined in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which places a strong emphasis on continuously enhancing the pilgrim experience. A crucial part of this strategic alignment involved a structural shift in how international couriers operate within the country.

In 2025, FedEx successfully completed its transition to a direct-serve presence in Saudi Arabia. By directly managing pickup, delivery, and customs clearance operations within the Kingdom, the organisation has significantly expanded its local footprint. This direct operational control fundamentally strengthens the ability to support local businesses with comprehensive international shipping solutions, offering them greater authority and oversight regarding their critical shipments. By integrating global expertise with highly localised operational control, the logistics sector ensures that the monumental task of supplying the pilgrimages remains a seamless success.