By: Hisham El Assaad As the world pivots towards a net-zero future, the UAE is deploying national strategies and plans to lead this shift. With COP28 having put a global spotlight on climate ambitions in the region, the onus is now on the private sector to transform intent into impact. And this presents an economic
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
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,
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,
In a significant step toward strengthening UAE-China economic relations, the International Free Zone Authority (IFZA) has signed a reciprocal agreement with China’s Hainan Free Trade Port. The strategic partnership is set to streamline cross-border business collaboration and expand opportunities for entrepreneurs operating between the two dynamic markets. The UAE, particularly Dubai, continues to attract a