Jomana R. Alrashid is one of the most influential figures shaping the modern media landscape in the Middle East. Since her historic appointment in 2020 as the first woman to lead the Saudi Research and Media Group (SRMG), Alrashid has reimagined what a regional media powerhouse can look like — globally connected, digitally driven, and
His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, met today with Alex Chriss, President and CEO of PayPal, at his office in Nad Al Sheba. The discussions focused on advancing collaboration in digital payments, e-commerce growth, SME enablement, and cross-border financial
In a bold move to stabilize its real estate market, Saudi Arabia has implemented a five-year rent freeze across Riyadh, covering both residential and commercial properties, effective September 25, 2025. Enforced via royal decree, the policy aims to improve housing affordability, protect tenants, and support sustainable urban development. The decree prohibits any rent increase for
International law firm Bird & Bird has strengthened its leadership in the Middle East with two senior appointments. Melissa Murray has been named Head of the firm’s UAE office, while Simon Shooter will take on the role of Head of the Saudi Arabia office. The announcement reflects Bird & Bird’s continued commitment to the region
Dubai has unveiled a major business-friendly reform with the launch of the One Freezone Passport, an initiative spearheaded by the Dubai Free Zones Council (DFZC). The new scheme enables companies to seamlessly operate across multiple free zones within the emirate under a single license—cutting red tape and speeding up expansion efforts. This bold step aligns
In a strategic move to enhance its suite of everyday banking services, Wio Bank has announced a new partnership with Shory, the UAE’s leading digital insurance platform. The collaboration brings fully digital car insurance directly into the Wio Personal app—offering users a faster, more flexible way to get insured. Through this integration, Wio Personal customers
Dentsu has announced the launch of Dentsu Sports Analytics (DSA) in the Middle East and North Africa, reinforcing its commitment to data-driven sports marketing in a region witnessing rapid growth in sports investment and fan engagement. The new division will be led by Samah Raydan as Vice President, operating from Saudi Arabia. DSA, formed in
Global Air Navigation Services (GANS) has announced the appointment of Mr. Eisa Al Shamsi as its new Managing Director and Deputy Chairman of the Board. He will also serve as CEO of Al Shaheen Aviation Holding, the aviation arm of Yas Holding. With close to 20 years of experience in the defence and space sectors,
Moniify, the financial media startup founded by Egyptian businessman Naguib Sawiris, has announced the appointment of Lana Sawiris as its new Chief Executive Officer, marking a significant shift in the company’s leadership and strategic direction. Established in November 2024 and headquartered in the UAE, Moniify was launched with a vision to deliver financial news and
Dubai, UAE – June 2025 — In a bold move signaling the rise of regional LegalTech innovation, Qanooni, a UAE-based artificial intelligence platform tailored for law firms and legal professionals, has raised $2 million in pre-seed funding to fuel its next phase of growth. The funding round saw backing from notable global and regional investors,