Dubai

17 news
From local Spanish interests, Dubai appears through a Spanish newsroom lens, with attention to diplomacy, migration, travel, business, security, culture and global events.

The focus is on why developments there matter for Spain, Spanish residents abroad, foreign communities in Spain and readers tracking international news.

Afghan Carpets Transform Madrid’s Rastro and Support 250 Families

Traditional Afghan carpets now fill Madrid’s Rastro, connecting 250 families in Surkh Aqcha to Spanish buyers. The business adapts ancient weaving to modern tastes, reshaping livelihoods and interiors across continents.

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Alejandro Hamlyn Arrested in Dubai After Skipping Spanish Fraud Trial

Spanish businessman Alejandro Hamlyn was detained in Dubai after failing to appear at his major fraud trial. Authorities seek his extradition over a €154 million VAT case linked to Hafesa Energía. The case has drawn attention due to leaked audio involving Leire Díez.

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Moroccan Woman in Ceuta Rejects Return Over Country's Mentality

Wafae Atid, 28, left Morocco for Ceuta not for economic reasons, but due to ideological differences. She cites gender inequality and lack of freedom as key factors behind her decision.

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Prosecutors Seek Up to 17 Years for Leaders of Illegal Pet Trafficking Ring

Six people face major prison terms after a Barcelona-based group was accused of trafficking puppies and kittens in poor conditions. The case exposes a network of fake documents, animal mistreatment and luxury spending.

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Desert Sand Transformed: DuneCrete Cuts Cement Use by Half

A Dubai-based company has developed DuneCrete, a new building material that uses desert sand once considered unsuitable for construction. The innovation promises up to 50% less cement and carbon, offering a sustainable alternative for architectural projects in harsh climates.

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Two Brothers Arrested in La Rioja with €1 Million Hidden Under Bed

Spanish police seized nearly €1 million in cash from two brothers in La Rioja. The suspects allegedly used their companies to import cocaine for an Albanian network based in Dubai. Authorities made 44 arrests across Spain and Ecuador.

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World’s Tallest Ferris Wheel Proposed for Madrid’s Skyline

A 260-meter observation tower and Ferris wheel could soon rise near Madrid’s Cuatro Torres, aiming to surpass global records. While business leaders tout economic benefits, residents warn of traffic and disruption. The city council awaits formal plans before deciding.

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Abu Dhabi and Sharjah Face 42°C Heat as UAE Weather Stays Stable

Temperatures in Abu Dhabi and Sharjah will climb to 42°C on July 23. Dubai is forecast to reach 40°C. The National Centre of Meteorology expects fair weather and calm seas across the UAE.

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Dubai Pistachio Chocolate Gains Fame After Tania Llasera Endorsement

A pistachio-filled chocolate from Dubai has become a sensation in Spain. Presenter Tania Llasera’s praise has fueled demand. Local bakeries and supermarkets now race to offer similar treats.

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Judge Questions Zapatero's Defense in Plus Ultra Case

Former Prime Minister Zapatero faced tough scrutiny in the National Court over his role in the Plus Ultra bailout. The judge remained unconvinced by his explanations, highlighting gaps in his consultancy activities.

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Mexico's Gold Rush: Can Zacatecas Become Latin America's Dubai? RUSSPAIN.com
USA

Mexico's Gold Rush: Can Zacatecas Become Latin America's Dubai?

Mexico's Peñasquito mine in Zacatecas now produces nearly a third of the country's gold, drawing comparisons to Dubai's wealth. Yet as foreign corporations control extraction, questions grow over who truly benefits and what the environmental cost will be.

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Judge Upholds Zapatero’s Charges After Intense Interrogation and New Evidence RUSSPAIN.com
USA

Judge Upholds Zapatero’s Charges After Intense Interrogation and New Evidence

Former Prime Minister Zapatero remains charged in the Plus Ultra case after a three-hour court interrogation. The judge cites four main sources of evidence. The investigation is still in its early stages.

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A new offshore structure with significant assets found in the Plus Ultra case RUSSPAIN.com
USA

A new offshore structure with significant assets found in the Plus Ultra case

Police Uncover Offshore Company of Zapatero’s Associate in the British Virgin Islands. As part of the Plus Ultra investigation, police discovered an offshore company linked to a close ally of the former prime minister. The firm manages investments worth hundreds of thousands of dollars. Other foreign entities are also mentioned in the case.

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Spanish model representative left Andorra due to risk of criminal prosecution

Andorra Authorities to Classify OnlyFans as Prostitution: Model Manager Moves to Dubai. Andorra is drafting a law that could recognize work with OnlyFans as a form of prostitution. A Spanish model manager has already changed countries and tax residency. Authorities are tightening oversight following a high-profile investigation.

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Unexpected twists, serious implications, expert opinions and high-profile details about the arrest of Ignacio Toran

Drug Cartel Scandal: Leader Arrested, Investigation Involves Former UDEF Chief. A suspected leader of a major drug syndicate has been detained in Spain. He is linked to trafficking dozens of tons of cocaine. The investigation also implicates former senior police officials.

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Exclusive: Unexpected ties - what unites the luxury market in UAE with Spain's largest narco-network

Investigation uncovers money laundering scheme through luxury real estate in Dubai. A large-scale money laundering scheme through luxury villas in Dubai has been uncovered in Spain. The case involves former police officers and international drug lords. Read the details in our report.

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Emirates Launches High-Speed Wi-Fi: Starlink Internet Available for All Classes and Devices

Emirates to Roll Out Free Starlink Internet Across Its Entire Fleet by 2027. Emirates will equip its entire fleet with Starlink satellite internet, providing passengers with fast, unlimited Wi-Fi at no cost. The initiative will cover 232 aircraft and set a new standard for comfort on international flights.

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