The Agenda - podcast cover

The Agenda

Dubai Eye 103.8

The Agenda is your go-to programme for news, analysis and comment - a daily digest of local and international stories that matter to you. Broadcasting every weekday, Georgia Tolley goes beyond the headlines to speak to government ministers, decision makers, analysts and local experts to find out how the news will impact those of us living in the UAE.
From Covid-19, to climate change and community issues, The Agenda covers stories from every walk of life, so get in touch with us and tell us your news.

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Episodes

Europe's heatwave —and your grocery bill could be next

Heatwaves from Europe to Australia are threatening crops—what could this mean for global food prices? In the UAE, there’s good news for turtles with numbers on the up. Meanwhile, there's a musical road in Fujairah that plays Beethoven as you drive over it. Plus, Denmark may become the first country to give people copyright over their own faces and voices to fight deepfakes. A Microsoft-backed AI system is now outperforming doctors in diagnostics. So, could your next appointment be with robot doc...

Jul 02, 202556 min

Flying taxis and traffic jams

Dubai's flying taxis are taking off. Georgia Tolley was there for the test flights. But down on the ground? The traffic is worse than ever. A new survey shows 9 in 10 drivers face daily congestion. Plus, Abu Dhabi’s population has doubled in a decade. We ask the experts what’s being done to cope. Meanwhile, a new online scam is hitting sellers in the UAE involving fake Careem links and stolen card details. And finally—would you holiday in North Korea? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy info...

Jul 01, 202559 min

How a scam cost one man AED 24,000

A civil engineer loses AED 24,000 in an online scam — we get advice from finance coach Jay Adrian Tolentino. Emirates NBD backtracks on free remittance changes — what’s the best way to send money home? Campaigners say fast-tech is creating waste — we look at how to recycle your old gadgets. Nightmares might be deadly — new research links them to early death before 70. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information....

Jun 30, 202550 min

Dubai's plans to become a 20-minute city

Sonal speaks to urban mobility experts to find out how the government is working towards making the city more walkable and greener. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jun 27, 20251 hr 13 min

Consumer rights: contractor disputes and car rental charges

Been burned by a building contractor or lost your rental car deposit? You're not alone. We're answering your questions on delayed renovations, unfair charges, and how to protect yourself. Plus, we speak to a former pilot on how sudden airspace closures impact flight routes. Meanwhile, we get the lowdown on a newly discovered, one-of-a-kind blood type. And, Sharjah just switched on its biggest solar plant—what does it signal for the UAE’s clean energy push? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy...

Jun 26, 202557 min

Working in extreme heat

It’s hotter than ever, so how are delivery riders coping? We hear from them — and their companies. Also AI and mental health — is it safe? A UAE app thinks so. Paracetamol made from plastic Would you take it? And, the rise of “WhatsAppitis” — why too much scrolling is sending more people to the doctor. Plus, why students are building mini parks to cool our cities. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information....

Jun 25, 202557 min

Crackdown on partition living in Dubai

Dubai is stepping up action against illegal partition housing—so what does that mean for low-income residents? We hear their stories and speak to property expert Mario Volpi. Also, inside the UAE’s ambitious rail plans, from metro upgrades to cross-country connections. Plus, could a new plastic that dissolves in seawater be the breakthrough we need? And how fungi might help us fight climate change. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information....

Jun 24, 202544 min

Jobs, jobs, jobs — But are they slowing down?

In today's episode. we’re diving into the UAE job market — and the signs that it might be cooling off. HR expert David Mackenzie explains why jobseekers may need more time to land a role, and what’s really going on behind the scenes. Career coach Pippa Ruxton shares how to stand out in a tougher hiring climate. And, travel challenges continues as airlines cancel Gulf routes – what to do if your flight’s affected. Plus, A Dubai resident’s cruise control scare — is the tech really safe? See omnyst...

Jun 23, 202534 min

Sharjah’s BEEAH Unveils a Mega Sustainable City

BEEAH is launching a multibillion-dirham eco-city in Sharjah. CEO Nada Taryam explains why now — and what it means for the UAE’s property market. Could regional conflict push up airline costs? Aviation expert John Strickland weighs in. Just three years left to save 1.5°C — climate scientist Valérie Masson-Delmotte explains the global stakes. Plus, it’s World Camel Day — we spotlight the UAE’s growing camel milk industry with Al Ain Farms. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information....

Jun 20, 202551 min

The Clarity You Need Around Travel Insurance

With the recent surge in flight delays and cancellations for UAE travellers, what level of travel insurance coverage should you buy? Toshita Chauhan, Chief Business Officer in General Insurance for Policy Bazaar UAE talks us through what we need to know. We're exploring a wave of protests sweeping through Europe against over tourism with travel expert Doug Lansky. And we also put our focus on wearable tech because Silicon Valley is betting big on AI-powered smart glasses right now. So are we rea...

Jun 19, 202545 min

From the 59th Floor: Escaping the Tiger Tower Fire

Five days after the devastating fire at Tiger Tower in Dubai Marina, extraordinary stories of courage and compassion are emerging. We speak to a student who escaped from the 59th floor through smoke-filled stairwells—and to a stranger from Abu Dhabi who drove across the emirates to offer help. Plus, is the four-day week catching on in the UAE's private sector? . And, a medical breakthrough—could a nano-needle patch soon replace invasive biopsies? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy informati...

Jun 18, 202545 min

Inside Abu Dhabi’s Billion-Dirham Infrastructure Boom

Breaking down the capital’s biggest mega-projects, from real estate to renewables. Hear from the man behind 100+ new neighbourhood parks transforming Abu Dhabi communities. Travel to CIS countries drops as regional tensions disrupt UAE flight routes. Dubai expands flexible summer working — what it means for employees. Plus, meet the 15-year-old Emirati girl who became a chess grandmaster and caught the attention of the UAE President. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information....

Jun 17, 202558 min

Is the UAE shutting down for summer – or are you missing a trick?

As the mercury rises and calendars clear, is the UAE’s summer slowdown a sign the country grinds to a halt – or a golden window of untapped opportunity? With temperatures already breaking records, should we start naming heatwaves like hurricanes? Plus, more flights are being delayed or cancelled amid regional tensions – so what are your rights if you're grounded? And as anti-tourism protests sweep southern Europe, travel expert Doug Lansky joins us to ask: where should we go this summer? See omn...

Jun 16, 202544 min

Latest on the India Air Crash

A devastating Air India crash has left 241 dead and the world searching for answers. We speak to our India Correspondent Aparna Bose for the very latest — and hear from ex-pilot Alistair Rosenshein on what might have gone horribly wrong. New rules mean 240 minutes of Arabic a week in private kindergartens. Plus, a murder mystery that’s stunned Australia — could a mushroom-laced beef Wellington be the key to a family tragedy? And, inmates turned chess champions? Dubai Police explain how a prison ...

Jun 13, 202550 min

How Dubai became the world's most trusted police force – and why it matters

Dubai Police have been named the strongest police brand in the world, scoring Triple A in a global index for ethics, innovation and public trust. Also, two serious crashes on the E311 in one week. What’s going wrong on this key commuter route? Plus, a new US travel ban could see fans from our region excluded from the 2026 World Cup and 2028 Olympics. Is sport getting caught in the crossfire of politics? Ever caught a yawn from someone across the room? Scientists think they’ve finally figured out...

Jun 12, 20251 hr 4 min

Tourism boom or bubble? The future of travel in Dubai

Dubai just smashed another tourism record — 7 million visitors in just four months — but can the city keep its global edge? Cultural futurist Jasmine Bina tells us what’s next in tourism — from AI-powered journeys to travel that transforms your identity. Plus, Global Village pulled in a staggering 10.5 million guests this winter — how is it levelling up for its 30th season? Meanwhile, UAE doctors warn of a growing Prozac shortage — and why it matters for patient care. And, ChatGPT crashed yester...

Jun 11, 202555 min

Blue metro line is on it's way — here’s what’s coming by 2029

We’ve got the latest on a multi-billion dirham metro line set to reshape how Dubai moves. New data points to a slowdown in home handovers across the city this year and next. Meanwhile, a viral Adele concert scam is fooling fans — Live Nation Middle East tells us how they’re fighting back. Dubai’s Public Transport Agency has plans to overhaul the school run and ease traffic pressure. Plus, could Mozart help your houseplants thrive? A new study says classical music might boost growth. And news fro...

Jun 10, 202555 min

Litter louts: should we fine our way to cleaner beaches?

Are litter louts ruining the UAE’s public spaces — and is the government making it too easy for us to be lazy? We hear from conservation campaigners across the country. Plus, Emirati architect Ahmad Bukhash is off to Japan to judge at Expo Osaka 2025. And we get the inside scoop on Abu Dhabi’s newest island destination — Fahid Island — and its bold tourism vision. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jun 09, 20251 hr 8 min

The Fallout of Trump and Musk

US President Donald Trump and Elon Musk have spectacularly fallen out - and news watchers are getting the popcorn out for the drama. But are there serious global issues at play here? Georgia Tolley speaks with US political scientist Professor Adam Ramey. There are also concerning news over the last couple of days for many people from the MENA region looking to travel to the United States after Trump signed a sweeping travel ban which bars entry to the US for citizens from several countries. So w...

Jun 06, 20251 hr 2 min

Why Airlines May Finally Fix the Worst Seats on the Plane

Emirates' President says economy flyers deserve better — is change coming? Plus, is your A/C making the planet hotter? We talk to experts rethinking how we stay cool in a warming world. We also meet the Brazilian polyglot going viral for speaking 40+ languages. and speak to the scientist reviving rhino cells in a bold bid to stop extinction. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jun 04, 202554 min

Too Much Skin at the Mall?

What counts as fashionable vs disrespectful in Dubai? We dive into a cultural clash after a viral post on Dubai Mall’s dress code. Also—developers are teaming up with honey farmers to bring bees back to our cities. Why? It’s not just about the honey. Plus: Could AI make you redundant? Anthropic’s CEO says yes—and soon. We’ll explore what that means for your job security. And, scientists are now using AI to decode the language of dolphins. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information....

Jun 03, 202559 min

Can Parents Be Sued Over E-Scooter Accidents?

We’re revisiting the growing concerns around e-scooters, as new figures show a sharp rise in accidents involving children. We speak to a community campaigner and ask a criminal lawyer—could parents be held legally responsible? Plus, the UAE has launched the region’s first-ever ‘finfluencer’ license. We’ll ask independent money coaches what kind of rules should be in place. And with reports suggesting top influencers can earn up to 100,000 dirhams a month, we ask: is it easy money or a full-time ...

Jun 02, 202557 min

Plane rage: Should you stay seated after landing?

Are you guilty of standing up too soon after hitting the tarmac? Turkey is now fining passengers who do, and we’re asking: is it rude or just a smart strategy? Also — the future of work is here with a new foresight report out of Abu Dhabi predicting dramatic changes driven by AI, virtual reality, and new talent strategies. Plus, what does space smell like? From cat urine to raspberries, scientists are decoding the bizarre scents of the cosmos. And — a Dubai startup has built the world’s first fu...

May 30, 202553 min

Performing Hajj soon? Listen to this.

As thousands of Muslims across the UAE prepare for the sacred journey of Hajj, Dubai Airports is stepping up in a big way. A detailed operational plan has been launched at DXB to support over 3,000 pilgrims travelling to Saudi Arabia this year - all the while managing the pressures of the expected summer travel surge and Eid Al Adha. Georgia found out more from Essa Al Shamsi, SVP of Terminal Operations at Dubai Airports. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information....

May 29, 202556 min

UAE Hits 51.6°C – What’s Really Going On?

We dive into the UAE’s hottest May on record, with temperatures hitting a blistering 51.6°C. We also explore the rise of hidden cameras around the world and the growing calls for stronger privacy laws. What are the rules here in the UAE — and how can you stay protected? Plus, the science gets sweet: some plants can hear bees coming and adjust their nectar accordingly. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information....

May 28, 202549 min

Will AI Replace Your Favourite News Anchor?

Big names. Bold questions. We’re live from the Arab Media Summit. Could AI replace your favourite news anchor? We ask Adam Mosen — launching the world’s first AI-led news channel this year. The UAE’s heading to the far side of the Moon. His Excellency Salem AlMarri tells us what Rashid Rover 2 hopes to find. And this summer, locals in Mallorca are protesting mass tourism. Should we still visit if we’re not welcome? We ask UN Tourism candidate Gloria Guevara. And we want your thoughts too. See om...

May 27, 202547 min

Too Much Screen time? Inside the UAE’s Media & School Debate

We’re live from the Arab Media Summit 2025 at Dubai World Trade Centre and TV adventurer Paris Norriss and travel star Raha Moharrak join us to talk trends, content, and what viewers really want. Georgia also sat down with French footballer–turned–TikTok star Séan Garnier to talk about transforming freestyle football into a global social media phenomenon. Plus — are kids getting too much screen time at school? Two experts break it down. And: Abu Dhabi’s building the region’s first net zero mosqu...

May 26, 202558 min

A long Eid weekend is coming

We’re talking top short-haul getaways with Emily Jenkins from DW Travel. What does Eid Al Adha really mean? We’ll explore that too, ahead of the moon sighting. Plus, the Enhanced Games are coming to Las Vegas. Athletes will be allowed to use performance-enhancing drugs. We speak to the organiser — and two UAE-based pros react Also, why do some siblings soar while others struggle? Susan Dominus joins us to discuss her new book on sibling success and identity. See omnystudio.com/listener for priva...

May 23, 202550 min

Consumer special - know your rights!

We take a look at what the law says dodgy travel experiences with Dubai’s Consumer Rights Director Ahmed Mosa - he take your questions. Plus, would you let a robot deliver your lunch? Expo City Dubai is trialling autonomous food bots — and they’re already on the move. And with the UAE heat turning up, experts are flagging new risks for e-scooter users — we’ll explain why your battery might not survive the summer. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information....

May 22, 202542 min

Banking fees are going up from June 1

Minimum balance rules in the UAE could hit both businesses and individuals. Could a Dh120 million Al Ain farming project make the UAE more food secure? Plus, a billion-dirham fund promises free treatment for low-income residents with chronic disease We also meet the neuroscientist behind the genes that let some people thrive on just four hours of sleep And, we find out why most ginger cats are male — and the surprising science behind it. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information....

May 21, 202547 min
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