Shortlisted companies and individuals will be vetted by the Entrepreneur Middle East team and then the judging committee, chaired by Mastercard and industry leaders. Nominations are now open for the 2024 edition of the Mastercard Women SME Leaders Awards in partnership with Entrepreneur Middle East, an annual event that aims to empower women-owned and run small and medium enterprises (SMEs) across Eastern Europe, Middle East, and A…
Startups in Egypt have started to gain momentum with several ventures securing funding to boost expansion efforts to the Kingdom. Following a period of startup funding stagnation, Egyptian founders have made their way back to the regional venture capital space with a flurry of investment deals and expansion strategies already in place....
Chinese food delivery giant Meituan is seeking to hire staff for at least eight positions based in Riyadh, in a sign it may be looking to Saudi Arabia to further its global expansion ambitions, according to Reuters....
Archer Aviation Inc., a leader in the development of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, announced the signing of a framework agreement in Abu Dhabi today at the DRIFTx mobility event, held at the Yas Marina Circuit showcasing the latest in advanced urban mobility, driving discussions, collaboration, and innovation across the sector. This agreement covers multi-hundred-million dollar investments to accelerate Archer’s pl…
Dubai South, the largest single-urban master development focusing on aviation, logistics and real estate, announced the signing of an agreement with AGMC, one of the leading importers of luxury vehicles in the United Arab Emirates, to launch a new AED 500 million showroom and service centre at Dubai South to serve customers of its automotive brands BMW, MINI, Rolls Royce and other brands.The agreement was signed in the presence of HH Sheikh Sulta…
Emirates, the Official Main Sponsor of Olympique Lyonnais, sparked excitement on the field last weekend as it hosted children from local organisations, Hôpital Mère Enfant and Centre Léon Bérard on 14 April, 2024. Hôpital Mère Enfant is a local organisation that provides specialised services in paediatric care; and Centre Léon Bérard is a local organisation renowned for medical oncology servic…
It is Al Madani's belief that entrepreneurs should let their ideas evolve, and this is one of the points she often raises during her many public speaking engagements. There is a lot one can learn about building businesses from Emirati serial entrepreneur, public speaker, and reality TV star Sara Al Madani- after all, she started up her first venture at the age of 15. And according to her, there is one particular lesson that other entrepreneu…
Today (25.04.24) marks the 8th anniversary of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, a transformative plan that charts a new course for the nation's future, one where both the country and its citizens can thrive.Vision 2030 rests on three key pillars that leverage the Kingdom's strengths: its deep cultural heritage, at the heart of the Arab and Islamic worlds; its substantial investment capabilities, which will propel the economy toward new horizons through…
What extraordinary feats did Saudi Arabia accomplish to see itself ranked ahead of China, Germany and the UK on a global measure of economic competitiveness? On its eighth anniversary, Saudi Vision 2030 has reached several remarkable milestones and made steady progress since its inception by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, revealing a transformative journey that continues to reshape the Kingdom’s future.....
- Aramco becomes Major Worldwide Partner of FIFA, with rights across multiple events including FIFA World Cup 26™ and FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027™ - Agreement builds on a shared commitment to innovation, development and creating impactful social initiatives, in line with FIFA’s mission to make football truly global - Partnership to run through to end of 2027 Aramco, one of the world’s leading integrated e…
- Agreements with Unicargas, Multiparques, and the Luanda Ports Authority Extend the Group’s Presence Along the Important Asia to Southern and West Africa Trade Lane - New Joint Venture to modernise local and regional logistics services AD Ports Group (ADX: ADPORTS), a leading facilitator of global trade, logistics, and industry, has signed several agreements with Unicargas and Multiparques leading to securing a 20-year concession agr…
Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), the international financial centre of the UAE’s capital, and Hacken, a global leader in blockchain security auditing, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaboratively set new benchmarks for blockchain security and compliance. This strategic partnership reflects a unique synergy between a regulatory body and a security auditor aimed at establishing a world-leading security assessment sta…
- Sultan bin Sulayem highlights the resilience of Dubai’s advanced logistics systems amidst weather challenges - Dubai Customs Director General: Sophisticated systems in place for customs clearance anytime, anywhere - Quarter-million transactions and nearly 300,000 bags processed for travellers despite weather conditions Dubai Customs said its customs operations, including customs declarations, cargo clearance, and inspections c…
e& UAE released a new whitepaper, offering a blueprint for navigating the future of telecommunications with artificial intelligence (AI). Titled “Unleashing the Power of AI: How e& UAE is Shaping the Future of AI in Telecommunications and Beyond” it offers an in-depth exploration of e& UAE’s journey towards becoming an AI-driven organisation, significantly contributing to the nation’s digital fut…
Furthering Dubai's commitment to accessible travel and to raise awareness of autism, Emirates invited 30 UAE families with neurodiverse children to have a real check in experience and familiarisation flight on the 24 April, in Terminal 3 Dubai International Airport (DXB). The initiative was designed to help the children practice and alleviate anxieties before travelling, as well as providing a unique opportunity for Emirates to collaborate with k…
Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has expanded its 'Bus on Demand' service to Business Bay following a successful month-long trial, as per the planned roll-out of the initiative. Adel Shakri, Director of Planning and Business Development at RTA's Public Transport Agency, said, “The decision to extend the 'Bus on Demand' service to Business Bay aims to bolster the mass transit network and ease congestion in vital areas…
The scenic slopes of Taif come alive with the fragrant beauty of over 550 million roses produced annually in the over 900 farms spread across Al-Hada, Al-Shafa, Wadi Muharram, Al-Wahat, and Al-Wahit.Farmers here cultivate roughly 1.14 million rose shrubs on 270 hectares of land. The rose season flourishes from the beginning of March to the end of April. Taif's rose industry extends beyond the captivating blooms. More than 70 rose production and d…
Marriott International, Inc. announced it has signed an agreement with NEOM to open its second Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Saudi Arabia. Anticipated to open in Trojena, a year-round mountain destination located in the northwest region of the country, the property will offer a complete escape into a private world of luxury. Designed for the most discerning travelers seeking a bespoke experience, Ritz-Carlton Reserve properties are tucked away in …
The Saudi Data & AI Authority (SDAIA), represented by its Academy, organized a training program that aims to develop the capabilities of 25 leaders from the Ministry of Media and its affiliate media entities, including the Saudi Broadcasting Authority, Saudi Press Agency, and General Commission for Audiovisual Media on the uses of data and AI technologies according to the best international practices. The program is part of a series of progra…
On Thursday 18 April, at around 7pm, the first ball was bowled to start an international women’s cricket match between Ireland and Thailand at The Sevens Stadium. It was the first match played at the stadium after it successfully reopened just two days after heavy rains caused major flooding across its pitches, and high winds damaged other areas across its facilities. Prioritising the resumption of sporting activities to support …
DMCC successfully concluded its first Made for Trade Live roadshow in Japan, which focused on Web3, gaming and AI to further complement the thriving tech ecosystem within DMCC. The event in Tokyo builds on the growing bilateral trade and investment relations between the UAE and Japan. DMCC is home to 83 Japanese companies, constituting over 24% of Japanese firms that are set up in the country, and sees further opportunities for Japanese businesse…
DP World and Malaysia’s Sabah Ports Sdn. Bhd today established a partnership to manage Sapangar Bay Container Port (SBCP) to cement SBCP’s position as the premier regional trade hub for the Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA)1. Sabah Ports Sdn. Bhd is a wholly owned subsidiary of Malaysian public listed investment holding company, Suria Capital Holdings Bhd. The agreement was signed…
The Labour Fund, Tamkeen, has announced its support for the establishment of PwC Middle East’s Regional Service Delivery Centre in Bahrain, which will provide advisory and operational services across sectors. This initiative aligns with the goals of Tamkeen’s National Employment Program and aims to offer up to 250 employment opportunities for Bahraini nationals, enhancing local economic contributions. The initiative strengt…
Investcorp, a leading global alternative investment firm, and China Investment Corporation (“CIC”), one of the world’s largest sovereign wealth funds, have today announced the launch of “Investcorp Golden Horizon” to invest in high-growth companies across Saudi Arabia, the rest of the countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council (the “GCC”) and China (the “Platform”). The Platform has a target si…
Saudi Arabia is the fastest-growing information technology market in the Middle East, Turkey, and the African region, with double-digit growth in technology spending, according to analysts. Jyoti Lalchandani, regional managing director of research firm IDC, said wider information and communication technology market spending is expected to reach $37.5 billion by the end of 2024.....
Saudi Arabia is gearing up to expand its hospitality sector by developing 320,000 new hotel rooms by 2030, according to an analysis by global property giant Knight Frank. The consultancy’s study disclosed that as much as 67 percent of the planned hotel room supply in the Kingdom would fall in the “upscale” or “luxury” categories, referring to 4-star and 5-star accommodations, respectively.....&nb…
The first shipment of Jazan mangoes, weighing 24 tons, was sent yesterday to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan through the Cooperative Society for Agricultural Marketing (Alrowia), in accordance with the agreement concluded with the Jordanian side several months ago, which entails exporting produce from the Jazan region, including mangoes, papayas, and watermelons. Alrowia, in partnership with Jazan Development and Investment Company (JAZADCO), ens…
Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, the 22nd Arab Media Forum, the region’s largest media thought leadership event, will be held in Dubai from 27 to 29 May 2024. Part of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Global Initiatives, the event aims to foster a deeper understanding of the region’s media landscape and its future and forge a new vision f…
To all our valued customers, This week has been one of the toughest for Emirates operationally, as record storms hit the United Arab Emirates. I would like to offer our most sincere apologies to every customer who has had their travel plans disrupted during this time. On Tuesday 16 April, the UAE experienced its highest rainfall in 75 years. Lashing storm winds and rain disrupted activity across the cities. Our 24/7 hub in Dubai remained open, wi…
Aramco, one of the world’s leading integrated energy and chemicals companies, has entered into discussions with Hengli Group Co., Ltd. (“Hengli Group”) regarding the potential acquisition of a 10% stake in Hengli Petrochemical Co., Ltd. (“Hengli Petrochemical”), subject to due diligence and required regulatory clearances. The companies today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) regarding the proposed transactio…
The Public Investment Fund (PIF) and Saudi Telecommunications Company (stc Group) announced the signing of definitive agreements whereby PIF will acquire a 51% stake in Telecommunication Towers Company Limited (TAWAL) from stc Group. TAWAL is the largest telecommunications infrastructure company in Saudi Arabia and one of the largest in the region, with an enterprise value of $5.85 billion per the agreement. Subsequently, PIF and stc Group will c…
Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has embarked on a collaboration with Dubai Maritime Authority (DMA) at the Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation (PCFC) to enhance RTA’s 360 marine transport services. This initiative involves integrating RTA's services with DMA's system to enable the public to avail of services such as short-term berth rentals that allow private boats to dock temporarily at maritime stations without over…
After the heaviest rainfall the UAE experienced in 75 years Dubai Airports is making remarkable strides in restoring and normalising operations at Dubai International Airport (DXB). Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports said since yesterday, ahead of its recovery schedule, DXB returned to its normal flight schedule and is back to operating around 1,400 flight movements a day. “With roads in and around the airport 100% clear of water accumul…
- Saudi Aramco's VC arm to invest in Indian startups - It will look to invest in more than a dozen startups The venture capital (VC) arm of Saudi Aramco is building an India team and scouting for early-stage deals in the country, two people aware of the plans said, in a move to leverage India’s startup story and widen the fund’s global reach.....
“Attracting these types of multinational companies is an achievement added to Dubai’s accomplishments as the emirate continues to develop a comprehensive business ecosystem and enhance growth, innovation, and creativity.” “These efforts embody the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to enhance the emirate’s leadership as a…
In a new crowning, Riyad Bank achieved the third place in the top 50 brands that in the field of social responsibility in the private sector according to the classification issued by the National Center for Responsibility and Studies in partnership with Forbes Middle East magazine. This achievement confirms the bank’s efforts in the field of social responsibility demonstrated in its program “Bukra” which is based on four main p…
AD Ports Group, the leading facilitator of global trade, logistics, and industry, has announced today that its Ports Cluster is expanding its business remit to the global distribution of marine lubricants.The announcement came following a strategic agreement inked with ADNOC Distribution, the UAE’s leading manufacturer of marine and automotive lubricants.Under the terms of the agreement, the Ports Cluster will leverage its connections and a…
22 April 20249:00am - 11:30amConference Hall A ADNEC TVET Leaders Forum brings together leading national and global experts from sectors including business, industry, education, and technical and vocational training. The forum aims to find solutions to the most pressing global challenges facing education and technical and vocational training, promote partnerships to support innovation, and reduce the gap between education outcomes and labour mark…
His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, and His Excellency Gustavo Petro, President of Colombia, have witnessed the signing of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the UAE and Colombia. The agreement was signed by His Excellency Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade, and His Excellency German Umaña, Minister of Industry, Commerce and T…
Varys Capital (“Varys”) has partnered with FundRock Investment Management Services (ME) Ltd (“FundRock”), a fund management company, licensed by the FSRA, to manage a feeder fund, Varys Capital Ventures (CEIC) Limited in the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM). The feeder fund will invest its assets into a Master Fund (“Fund”), which was initially established as an early-stage, equity-focused venture fund …
Key government, business and industry leaders attended a series of presentations and meetings in Beijing and Shanghai, organized in partnership with the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) in Beijing and Shanghai NEOM has kicked off the China leg of its global ‘Discover NEOM’ tour with its showcase in Beijing and Shanghai, with over 500 senior business and industry leaders in attendance. The tour began in Be…
Abu Dhabi National Insurance Company (ADNIC) has acquired a 51% stake in Allianz Saudi Fransi Cooperative Insurance Company, the Saudi affiliate of the German financial service provider Allianz Group, for $133.1 million (SAR 499 million), a bourse filing showed Thursday. Acquisition details The cost of acquisition was determined on the basis of a weighted average price of around $4.35 (SAR 16.3075) per share, according to the regulatory fi…
WFES is hosted by Masdar from 16 to 18 April 2024 Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) is participating in four panel discussions during the World Future Energy Summit. Hosted by the Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company (Masdar) from 16 to 18 April 2024, the event aims to accelerate the pace of sustainable development and advance economic, social, and environmental development. DEWA is also showcasing its key projects and innovative initiative…
Due diligence said to be at advanced stages, company to be valued at $430–450 million Japan’s Mizuho Bank and Dubai’s government-owned NBD Emirates are frontrunner to take over KKR’s stake in Avendus Capital. The two foreign investors are said to be at advanced stages of due diligence and are expected to submit their bids in the next 2 – 3 weeks......
- Triton Liquid, funded by leading US venture capital investors, has received an In-Principal Approval for a Financial Services Permission (FSP) - Triton’s launch will open greater access to more sophisticated, liquid, institutional-grade digital asset projects to Middle East investors, stimulating further economic diversification in the UAE - Triton cites the UAE’s “visionary leadership, financial services pedigree and constant…
Acknowledging Dubai International’s (DXB) achievement of retaining its title as the world's busiest international airport for the 10th year running, as announced by the Airports Council International (ACI), Dubai Airports CEO Paul Griffiths makes a statement on this remarkable feat: “While this milestone was greatly anticipated, its official confirmation instils us with great pride. DXB is proud to uphold its status as…
- This strategic investment will enhance the UAE’s position as a global AI hub and provide further opportunities for partners and customers to innovate and grow. - G42 and Microsoft will collaborate to ensure the benefits of secure AI technologies and cloud capabilities are responsibly shared with growing economies globally. - Microsoft’s Vice Chair and President Brad Smith will take a seat on the G42 Board. - Both companies will…
The World Bank has raised its expectations for Saudi Arabia’s economic growth to 5.9 percent in 2025 from 4.2 percent predicted earlier in January. In its latest report the bank, however, revised its 2024 forecast for the Kingdom’s gross domestic product growth downward to 2.5 percent from an earlier forecast of 4.1 percent.....
