Finance World Magazine | Edition: May 2025

Top Investment Opportunities for Retail Investors in 2025

Ownership of Digital and Physical Assets in the Web3 Era

The Role of Genetic AI in Revolutionizing Financial Services

How AANI is Transforming the Payment Landscape in the UAE

R

May 2025

We are not just constructing

buildings, we are creating

legacies that define the

UAE’s future.”

FARHAD AZIZI

Group CEO,

Azizi Developments

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EDITORIAL

Ambrish Agarwal, ambrish@thefinanceworld.com

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One way to keep momentum going is

to constantly have greater goals.

Editor’s Note

As we look toward a rapidly evolving financial landscape,

this issue of Finance World takes a bold step into

the future - where intelligence, infrastructure, and

innovation converge to redefine how economies function

and how individuals and institutions manage wealth.

In this edition, “Smart Finance. Smarter Future.”, we

explore the technologies and policies that are shaping the

next generation of financial services and urban growth.

From Genetic AI transforming risk assessment and portfolio

personalization, to the synergistic potential of Artificial

Intelligence and Stablecoins, the boundaries of innovation

are constantly expanding.

Our cover story features Farhad Azizi, Group CEO of Azizi

Developments. We delve into the legacy of the Azizi Group,

founded by his father, Mirwais Azizi, and trace the group’s

remarkable journey. From Mirwais Azizi’s arrival in Dubai

in the early 2000s to their entry into the city’s dynamic real

estate market, what began with just a handful of plots has now

evolved into a development pipeline worth tens of billions.

The story is followed by an exclusive interview with Farhad

Azizi, where he shares his vision for the future and outlines

his plans as he takes the helm of the company.

We also dive deep into RegTech in the UAE, spotlighting

how regulatory technology is becoming a cornerstone of

compliance and financial security in a digitized environment.

In this issue, we’re not just looking at where finance is going

- we’re unpacking why it’s changing, how it’s changing, and

what it means for those building businesses and futures in

a new era.

MCFILL MEDIA MCFILL & MEDIA &

PUBLISHING PUBLISHING GROUP GROUP

Ambrish Agarwal, Editor in Chief

Ambrish Agarwal, Editor in Chief

Published by and © McFill Media & Publishing Group FZE LLC

Published by and © McFill Media & Publishing Group FZE LLC

May 2025 www.thefinanceworld.com 7

Contents May

2025

COVER STORY

INVESTMENT

P100 | Top Investment Opportunities for

Retail Investors in 2025

AI-driven ETFs and green energy stocks

offer strong growth potential with

diversified risk.

INTERVIEW

P20 | Building the Future: Azizi’s Vision for a

New UAE Skyline

We delve into the legacy of the Azizi Group, founded by Mirwais

Azizi, followed by an exclusive interview with Farhad Azizi.

OPINION

P62 | Architecting the Future of Finance: Al Etihad

Payments enabling UAE’s Instant Economy

Jan Pilbauer, the CEO of Al Etihad Payments shares insights on real-time

payments shaping a digital financial future.

P56 | Redefining Luxury Living

in Dubai

Neeraj Mishra shares how AMIS Development is

reshaping Dubai’s real estate landscape.


REAL ESTATE

OPINION

P70 | Rethinking Real Estate: A Blueprint for

the Future

Real estate is evolving with smarter design, tech integration, and

sustainable growth.

AWARDS

P36 | Is the Future CFO Also an

Operations Guru?

Hiral Patel shares five key lessons on how today’s

CFOs are evolving into strategic, and crossfunctional

leaders.

WHEELS

P38 | UAE Realty Awards 2025 - Honoring the

Tycoons of UAE’s Realty industry

Celebrating excellence, innovation, and leadership in the UAE’s dynamic

real estate sector.

P84 | 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

Blending electric performance with SUV

versatility, style, and smart sustainability for

the modern driver.


Business

Source: Ai generated

Exploring the role of remittances in boosting the UAE’s economic development and stability.

How the

Remittance

Business Fuels

Economic Growth

How the Remittance Business Drives

Economic Growth and Strengthens Financial

Resilience in the UAE.

The remittance business plays a pivotal

role in the UAE’s economic landscape,

which is driven by its large expatriate

population. With billions of dirhams sent

annually to home countries, remittances

contribute to financial stability and foster

economic ties. This steady flow of

funds enhances consumption, supports

financial institutions, and strengthens foreign

exchange reserves. Additionally, the

remittance sector bolsters employment

and financial inclusion, aligning with the

UAE’s goal of becoming a global financial

hub. Government initiatives promoting

digital payment platforms and reducing

transfer costs further enhance the sector’s

efficiency. Understanding the impact of

remittances offers valuable insights into

the UAE’s economic resilience and growth.


The UAE’s remittance business

significantly impacts its economy,

driven by the large expatriate

workforce comprising around 90% of its

population. In 2022, outward remittances

amounted to approximately AED

145.7 billion (US$39.7 billion), making

the UAE one of the world’s leading remittance

hubs. The consistent flow of

funds to countries like India, Pakistan,

and the Philippines strengthens financial

ties and supports economic growth

in both sending and receiving nations.

Additionally, the remittance sector generates

employment, promotes financial

inclusion, and bolsters the UAE’s foreign

exchange reserves. With ongoing

advancements in digital payment systems

and regulatory support, the industry

continues to play a vital role in the

UAE’s economic landscape.

Significance of Remittances

in the UAE

Remittances serve as a crucial financial

lifeline for millions of families in recipient

countries. A substantial portion of

the UAE’s outward remittances goes

to South Asia, with India receiving the

largest share. According to the Central

Bank of the UAE (CBUAE), India

received 33% of the total remittances

from the UAE in 2022. Pakistan and the

Philippines follow closely, benefiting

from the steady influx of funds. These

remittances contribute to household

consumption, education, healthcare,

and local business investments, thereby

stimulating economic growth in

recipient nations.

In return, the UAE benefits from

the stability that remittances bring to

its financial sector. Exchange houses

and banks facilitating cross-border

transactions generate significant revenue

through service fees and foreign

exchange margins. The high volume of

transactions also supports financial

institutions by increasing liquidity and

enhancing their operational efficiency.

Enhancement of Foreign Exchange

Reserves

The remittance business significantly

contributes to the UAE’s foreign

exchange reserves. When expatriates

transfer funds to their home countries,

the conversion of the local currency to

foreign currencies creates a demand

that bolsters the UAE’s foreign exchange

holdings. In 2023, the UAE’s foreign

exchange reserves reached AED 560

billion (US$152.5 billion), providing a

financial buffer against external economic

shocks. A stable reserve also

strengthens the dirham’s peg to the

US dollar, ensuring currency stability

and investor confidence.

Employment and Economic

Diversification

The remittance sector generates substantial

employment opportunities

within the UAE. The country is home to

over 120 licensed exchange houses and

financial service providers, employing

thousands of professionals in roles

such as compliance, financial analysis,

and customer service. Additionally,

the demand for digital remittance

solutions has led to increased hiring

in fintech companies and payment

service providers.

Furthermore, the sector supports the

UAE’s economic diversification efforts.

By reducing reliance on oil revenues,

the remittance business contributes

to the growth of the financial services

industry. The government’s focus on

strengthening the financial ecosystem

through regulatory reforms has also

enhanced the efficiency of remittance

services.

Technological Advancements and

Digitalisation

The digitalisation of remittance services

is revolutionising the financial

landscape in the UAE. The country’s

digital remittance market is projected

to grow at a compound annual growth

rate (CAGR) of 17.9%, reaching approximately

US$1.54 billion by 2030.

Platforms offering low-cost, real-time

transfers have gained popularity among

expatriates seeking convenient financial

solutions. Companies like Western

Union, Al Ansari Exchange, and UAEbased

fintech startups have introduced

app-based money transfer services,

further enhancing accessibility.

Additionally, blockchain technology

is increasingly being adopted to

streamline cross-border transactions.

Blockchain-based solutions ensure

transparency, reduce transfer time,

and lower operational costs. In 2024,

the UAE announced partnerships with

global blockchain firms to implement

secure and efficient remittance channels.

This move aligns with the UAE’s

digital economy strategy, promoting

innovation in financial services.

Government Initiatives and Regulatory

Support

The UAE government has actively supported

the remittance sector through

favourable policies and regulatory

frameworks. The Central Bank of

the UAE (CBUAE) has implemented

stringent anti-money laundering

(AML) and combating the financing of

terrorism (CFT) regulations to ensure

transparent and secure remittance

operations. Additionally, the Financial

Intelligence Unit (FIU) collaborates

with international financial bodies

to monitor suspicious activities and

mitigate financial crime risks.

The government’s commitment to

financial inclusion has also driven the

adoption of digital wallets and mobile

payment solutions. Initiatives such

as the UAE Pass and instant payment

platforms have simplified cross-border

transactions, providing expatriates with

secure and efficient remittance options.

By promoting financial literacy and

supporting fintech innovation, the UAE

continues to strengthen its position as

a global remittance hub.

Challenges and Future Outlook

Despite its robust growth, the remittance

sector faces challenges, including

market saturation and rising competition.

Traditional exchange houses are

under pressure to innovate as fintech

companies offer faster, cheaper, and

more accessible services. Additionally,

global economic uncertainties and

fluctuations in currency exchange

rates can impact remittance volumes.

However, the UAE’s proactive approach

to digital transformation and

regulatory advancements positions the

sector for continued growth. Fintech

companies are expected to play a pivotal

role in shaping the future of remittances

by offering blockchain-based payment

solutions and expanding financial

services to underserved communities.

Furthermore, government partnerships

with emerging markets will enhance

cross-border financial cooperation,

contributing to the resilience of the

remittance ecosystem.

The remittance business remains a

cornerstone of the UAE’s economic

landscape, driving financial growth,

supporting employment, and enhancing

foreign exchange reserves.


Business News

ADNOC Drilling Secures $1.63B Deal from Group Entity

ADNOC Drilling has secured a $1.63

billion deal from another ADNOC

Group entity, further expanding

its portfolio of oilfield services. This

five-year contract will see ADNOC

Drilling provide integrated drilling

services to ADNOC Offshore. The deal

includes the provision of directional

drilling, drilling fluids, cementing,

wireline logging, and tubular running

services. Additionally, the agreement

incorporates advanced engineering

and technical support to effectively

deliver extended reach and maximum

reservoir wells offshore. Abdulrahman

Abdulla Al Seiari, CEO of ADNOC

Drilling, commented, “This five-year

award is a strong reflection of ADNOC

Drilling’s long-term contracting model,

which provides revenue visibility and

stability over the contract period.” This

contract further strengthens ADNOC

Drilling’s expanding oilfield services

business. The economic impact of the

deal is already accounted for in the

company’s 2025 and 2026 guidance.

ADIO, DoH & Hub71 Unite for

Life Sciences Investment

The Abu Dhabi Investment Office

(ADIO) and the Department of

Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), the

emirate’s healthcare regulator, have

formalised a strategic partnership

with Hub71, the capital’s global tech

ecosystem. The initiative aims to attract

international venture capital (VC) and

accelerate the development of Health-

Tech and life sciences startups within

the newly established Health, Endurance,

Longevity, and Medicine (HELM)

cluster. The Department of Economic

Development (ADDED), together with

ADIO and DoH, launched the HELM

cluster to position it as a global hub

for innovation in biotechnology, Med-

Tech, and digital health. The initiative

aims to contribute AED 94 billion to

Abu Dhabi’s GDP and create 30,000

jobs by 2045. Announced during Abu

Dhabi Global Health Week (ADGHW),

the agreement will see Hub71 utilise

its extensive VC network to promote

the HELM cluster through roadshows,

networking events, and marketing

campaigns.

Emirates SkyCargo Invests in Green Hydrogen Fleet

Emirates SkyCargo, in partnership

with Allied Transport Company,

is set to integrate hydrogen-powered

trucks into its existing

fleet. These vehicles, currently under

production, are scheduled to be introduced

by the first quarter of 2026.

The Emirates SkyCargo fleet includes

more than 60 trucks and plays a vital

role in facilitating cargo movement

between Dubai World Central (DWC),

Dubai International Airport (DXB),

and the broader domestic market. The

introduction of five hydrogen-powered

trucks represents a significant step in

the airline’s progressive shift towards

alternative fuel options. Matching

the load capabilities of their diesel

counterparts, the hydrogen-powered

trucks can transport up to 28 tonnes

of cargo. Refuelling will take place at

two specialised hydrogen stations in

Dubai Expo City and Al Qudra DEWA

with a full tank, offering a range of up

to 700 kilometres.

UAE’s Aviation Sector Contributes 18.2% to

National GDP

The International Air Transport

Association (IATA) has published

a report detailing the significant

economic and employment contributions

of aviation. The study highlights

that aviation’s total economic impact

in the UAE amounted to USD 92 billion,

representing 18.2% of the nation’s

GDP. This includes the broader supply

chain, employee spending, and tourism

activities. The sector supported

992,000 jobs, with 74,500 employed

directly by airlines, 132,300 working

in other aviation sectors, and 297,300

in aviation-related tourism. “The UAE

plays a vital role in global connectivity,

and the advantages of its position as a

super connector bring trade, tourism,

investment, and jobs to the country. The

UAE’s leadership has a clear vision for

aviation, underpinned by smart regulation

and investment in world-class

infrastructure,” stated Willie Walsh,

IATA’s Director-General.


Aramex, Shipsy Partner to Transform Last-Mile Delivery with AI

Aramex, the UAE-based global

logistics provider, has signed

a new agreement with Shipsy,

a leading AI-powered SaaS logistics

platform. The partnership will enhance

Aramex’s last-mile delivery operations,

offering smarter and more efficient

services to customers worldwide. The

partnership allows Aramex to use Shipsy’s

AI-driven logistics platform, which

connects and optimises the entire supply

chain. This platform gives businesses

real-time control over deliveries,

AD Ports Group Acquires

152 Long-Haul Trucks

Through Noatum Logistics

Noatum Logistics, a subsidiary

of AD Ports Group, has

announced the acquisition

of 152 long-haul transport trucks

to strengthen its freight forwarding

operations in the Middle East. This

fleet expansion reflects Noatum Logistics’

strong growth trajectory and its

strategic focus on managing regional

supply chains for customers, while

also advancing its commitment to

environmental sustainability. The new

trucks will increase Noatum Logistics’

regional transport capacity by 6,000

tonnes, growing its fleet from around

450 vehicles to over 600. The vehicles

will support customers across key

sectors, including energy, polymers,

food and FMCG, automotive, pharmaceuticals

and healthcare, and defence.

They can handle containerised, reefer,

and loose cargo. The acquisition also

supports the company’s sustainability

objectives by improving fuel efficiency

and reducing Nitrogen Oxide and particulate

emissions through their Euro

5 diesel engines.

improving performance and cutting

delays. Francoise Russo, Chief Digital

and Technology Officer at Aramex,

said the company looks forward to the

partnership. “By working with Shipsy,

we will unlock new ways to improve our

logistics operations and offer smarter,

more reliable services to customers,”

Russo explained. Soham Chokshi, CEO

and Co-Founder of Shipsy, echoed this

optimism. “Our agreement with Aramex

highlights our success in delivering

real business results.

UAE Authority Signs MoU With Russian Prosecutor

The UAE Accountability Authority

(UAEAA) signed a Memorandum

of Understanding (MoU) with the

Prosecutor General’s Office of the Russian

Federation during the official visit

of Igor Krasnov, Prosecutor-General of

the Russian Federation, to the UAE. The

MoU aims to boost bilateral cooperation

in key areas that support the strategic

partnership between the UAE and Russia.

Humaid Obaid Abushibs, President of

the UAE Accountability Authority, and

Igor Krasnov signed the agreement at the

authority’s headquarters in Abu Dhabi.

The agreement focuses on promoting

integrity and fighting corruption. It seeks

to strengthen cooperation, facilitate the

exchange of expertise, build institutional

capabilities, and extend collaboration

within international forums to support

a global culture of transparency and

accountability. The UAE Accountability

Authority confirmed that the agreement

aligns with the UAE’s strategic priorities

and reflects the leadership’s firm commitment

to transparency and anti-corruption.

Maktoum Meets Barclays CEO to Boost

Financial Ties

His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin

Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum,

First Deputy Ruler of Dubai,

Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of

Finance, welcomed C.S. Venkatakrishnan,

Group Chief Executive Officer of Barclays,

to his office in Dubai. Barclays, a

globally renowned financial powerhouse,

continues to deepen its relationship

with the UAE, and the meeting underlined

the growing cooperation between

Dubai and leading international financial

institutions. During the discussion,

Sheikh Maktoum reiterated the UAE’s

commitment to nurturing a world-class

financial ecosystem. He highlighted the

country’s ambition to sustain its position

as one of the most resilient, innovative,

and competitive global financial markets.

The dialogue placed particular focus on

ways to broaden collaboration between

Dubai and Barclays, identifying opportunities

that leverage the emirate’s robust

infrastructure, progressive regulatory

environment, and fast-paced digital

transformation.


Economy


The UAE’s trade expansion is supported by strategic partnerships and economic diversification efforts.

UAE’s Trade Strategy:

Driving Growth with

15% Surge in Non-Oil

Trade

The UAE’s Non-Oil Trade Saw a Record-

Breaking 15% Surge in 2024, Strengthening its

Position as a Global Trade Hub.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has cemented

its status as a global trade and

investment hub, with non-oil foreign

trade reaching an all-time high in 2024.

According to official data, the UAE’s

non-oil trade surged by 14.6%, surpassing

AED3 trillion (USD 817 billion) for the first

time. This growth reflects the country’s

ongoing efforts to diversify its economy,

moving away from oil dependency and

strengthening its trade partnerships. The

Comprehensive Economic Partnership

Agreements (CEPAs) have played a key

role in boosting trade, increasing exports,

and attracting investments. As the UAE

continues to expand its trade relations

and enhance its global connectivity, it

remains committed to fostering sustainable

economic growth.


A

major driver behind the UAE’s

trade growth has been its Comprehensive

Economic Partnership

Agreements (CEPAs). These

agreements, introduced in 2021, aim to

enhance trade and investment flows by

reducing tariffs, easing market access,

and fostering economic cooperation.

As of 2024, the UAE has signed CEPAs

with India, Indonesia, Israel, Turkey,

Georgia, and other key trading partners.

The impact of these agreements

has been significant. Non-oil exports

to CEPA partner countries rose by

42.3% in 2024, contributing to the

UAE’s total non-oil exports reaching

AED561.2 billion. India remains one of

the UAE’s top trading partners, with

bilateral trade growing by 10% in 2024.

Similarly, trade with Turkey increased

by 15%, while Iraq emerged as the

leading destination for UAE exports,

registering a remarkable 41% growth.

These agreements are expected to

drive further trade expansion, with

ongoing negotiations for new CE-

PAs, including discussions with the

European Union. The UAE’s focus

on trade liberalisation and market

access reforms continues to enhance

its competitiveness on the global stage.

Diversification Beyond Oil

The UAE’s economic diversification

strategy has been a key factor in its

non-oil trade growth. The country

has successfully reduced its reliance

on hydrocarbons by investing in key

sectors such as manufacturing, logistics,

technology, and renewable energy.

In 2024, non-oil exports accounted

for 18.7% of the UAE’s total foreign

trade, compared to 16.8% in 2023 and

14.1% in 2019. This consistent upward

trend highlights the effectiveness of

government policies aimed at fostering a

more resilient and diversified economy.

The UAE’s non-oil sector also played a

crucial role in driving overall economic

growth. During the first nine months of

2024, the country’s real GDP expanded

by 3.8%, with the non-oil sector growing

at 4.5%. This growth is attributed

to increased manufacturing output,

strong demand for UAE exports, and a

thriving logistics and trade ecosystem.

Expanding Global Trade Relations

The UAE’s strategic location and worldclass

infrastructure have made it a

As we look to the future,

we will ensure that the

UAE continues to leverage

the power of trade to drive

sustainable, long-term

economic growth and

prosperity for our nation.”

H.E. Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi,

Minister of State for Foreign Trade

preferred trade hub for international

businesses. The country’s ports and

free zones facilitate seamless trade

flows, attracting global investors and

businesses.

One of the key achievements in 2024

was the expansion of trade with major

global markets. Trade with China, one

of the UAE’s largest trading partners,

remained robust, with bilateral trade

exceeding AED260 billion. The UAE

also strengthened its economic ties

with Africa, with non-oil trade with

African nations surpassing AED200

billion, driven by investments in infrastructure

and digital trade initiatives.

The government is actively negotiating

new trade agreements that will open

up new avenues for economic collaboration,

further solidifying the UAE’s

status as a global trade powerhouse.

Investment Initiatives

Complementing Trade Growth

In addition to trade agreements, the

UAE has been making significant

investments to reinforce its global

economic presence. A key initiative in

2024 was the country’s commitment to

a 10-year, USD 1.4 trillion investment

framework in the United States. This

plan focuses on critical sectors such

as artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductors,

renewable energy, and

advanced manufacturing.

Some of the notable investment

projects include:

A USD 25 billion energy infrastructure

and data centre initiative by Abu Dhabi’s

ADQ, in collaboration with Energy

Capital Partners. A major investment

by ADNOC’s international arm, XRG,

in Texas’ NextDecade liquefied natural

gas (LNG) export facility. New

partnerships in AI and semiconductor

development, enhancing the UAE’s

technological capabilities.

These investments support the UAE’s

vision of becoming a global leader in

technology, innovation, and sustainability.

By focusing on AI, renewable

energy, and advanced manufacturing,

the UAE enhances its trade position

while fostering economic diversification,

attracting global investments, and

securing its role as a key player in the

future economy.

The UAE’s Role in Global

Supply Chains

The UAE has emerged as a key global

trade and logistics center, thanks to its

strategic location linking Europe, Asia,

and Africa. Boasting state-of-the-art

infrastructure, advanced ports, and

dynamic free trade zones, the country

plays a pivotal role in international

supply chains.

In 2023, the UAE’s non-oil trade surpassed

AED 3.5 trillion ($952 billion),

underscoring its rising prominence in

global commerce (UAE Ministry of

Economy). Comprehensive Economic

Partnership Agreements (CEPA) with

nations such as India, Indonesia, and

Turkey have further deepened trade

relations. With ongoing investments

in infrastructure, digital trade systems,

and global partnerships, the UAE is on

track to lead global trade and logistics

over the coming decade. As additional

CEPAs are signed, UAE-based businesses

will enjoy access to global markets,

solidifying the nation’s position as the

premier trade hub of the Middle East.


Local News

Central Bank Imposes Financial Sanction on Bank Operating in the UAE

The Central Bank of the UAE

(CBUAE) imposed financial

sanctions on a bank operating

in the UAE, under Article (14) of the

Federal Decree Law No. (20) of 2018 on

Anti-money Laundering and Combating

the Financing of Terrorism and Illegal

Organisations and its amendments. The

financial penalty has been imposed

after assessing the findings of an examination

conducted by the CBUAE,

which revealed that the bank failed to

comply with Anti-money Laundering and

Combating the Financing of Terrorism

and Illegal Organisations policies and

procedures. The CBUAE, through its

supervisory and regulatory mandates,

works to ensure that all banks and

their staff abide by the UAE laws, regulations

and standards adopted by the

CBUAE to safeguard the transparency

and integrity of the banking sector and

the UAE financial system.

RAK Real Estate Sees

Record Buyer Growth

Ras Al Khaimah’s real estate

market is experiencing a remarkable

boom, driven largely

by property buyers from Dubai and Abu

Dhabi. According to a recent report,

the emirate saw a 65% year-on-year

surge in off-plan transactions in Q1

2024. This growth is fuelled by investor

interest in waterfront communities

and luxury developments, particularly

on Al Marjan Island. The demand is

further supported by upcoming mega

projects, including the Wynn Resorts

development, which is drawing regional

and international attention. Analysts

note that RAK’s affordability, scenic

coastline, and rising infrastructure

investments are making it a prime

destination for both end-users and

investors. The emirate’s real estate

landscape is evolving rapidly, offering

strong capital appreciation prospects

as it integrates into the UAE’s broader

property boom.

Ajman Bank Posts AED 366M Q1 Net Profit

Ajman Bank recorded a net profit

exceeding AED 366 million in

Q1 2025, reflecting a significant

rise in financial performance compared

to the previous year. The bank

attributed this robust growth to strong

core banking revenues, effective cost

management, and a strategic focus

on digital transformation. Enhanced

customer experience and growing

demand for Shariah-compliant banking

services also contributed to the impressive

results. Ajman Bank’s leadership

affirmed its commitment to supporting

the UAE’s economic development while

maintaining operational excellence. The

bank continues to prioritise innovation

in Islamic finance, sustainable practices,

and strategic partnerships to drive

long-term growth. The Q1 performance

places Ajman Bank in a favourable

position for further expansion in the

UAE banking sector this year.

Imkan Launches New Coastal Living Project

UAE-based real estate developer

Imkan has unveiled a premium

coastal lifestyle destination,

offering upscale living options that

blend modern architecture with natural

beauty. The newly launched community

promises a vibrant, wellness-oriented

environment with beach access, luxury

villas, retail areas, and world-class

amenities. Strategically located to

attract both residents and investors,

the project reflects growing demand

for exclusive, waterfront living experiences

in the UAE. Imkan stated

that the development is designed to

foster a strong sense of community,

sustainability, and well-being. With

construction plans aligned with international

standards, the project adds to

Imkan’s growing portfolio of high-end

residential offerings and strengthens

its position in the UAE’s luxury real

estate market.


Fuze Gets UAE Central Bank Payment Licence

UAE-based digital asset firm Fuze

has secured a Retail Payment

Services and Card Schemes licence

from the Central Bank of the

UAE, marking a significant milestone

for the fintech sector. The licence will

enable Fuze to offer regulated payment

products, including digital wallets

and prepaid card solutions across the

Emirates. As a home-grown company

focusing on Web3 and digital finance,

UAE Foreign Trade Hits

AED 1.3T In Q1

The UAE’s non-oil foreign trade

reached AED 1.3 trillion in Q1

2024, marking a 3% increase

compared to the same period last year.

The Ministry of Economy reported

strong performance in re-exports and

trade diversification as key drivers.

The top trading partners included

China, India, Saudi Arabia, and the US,

with gold, jewellery, electronics, and

automobiles among the most traded

commodities. This milestone aligns

with the UAE’s economic vision of

boosting global trade relations and

enhancing its position as a major

logistics hub. The rise in trade value

reflects the country’s resilience and

the effectiveness of its strategic trade

agreements. Officials say ongoing

infrastructure investments and a

pro-business environment will continue

supporting trade momentum

through 2024 and beyond.

Fuze’s new authorisation strengthens

its position in the evolving financial

ecosystem. It also reflects the Central

Bank’s commitment to supporting innovation

while ensuring regulatory oversight.

Fuze plans to expand its product

offerings and collaborate with regional

partners to drive broader adoption

of digital payments, aligning with the

UAE’s ambition to become a leading

fintech hub in the Middle East.

Dubai to Trial 50 Autonomous Taxis in 2025

Dubai’s Roads and Transport

Authority (RTA) has signed an

agreement with Cruise, a General

Motors-backed firm, to initiate operational

trials of 50 autonomous taxis by 2025.

This move positions Dubai as the first

non-U.S. city to commercially deploy

autonomous vehicles. The initiative is

part of RTA’s strategy to transform 25%

of all trips in Dubai into smart and driverless

transport by 2030. These electric

autonomous vehicles will contribute to

lower emissions, improve road safety,

and reduce traffic congestion. Initial trials

will begin in select areas, with services

expanding gradually based on results. The

RTA also highlighted its ongoing efforts

to integrate innovative technologies to

enhance mobility experiences and align

with the UAE’s sustainability goals and

smart city vision.

Dubai Population Growth Boosts Listed Firms

Dubai’s booming population is fuelling

strong performance among

listed companies, particularly in

the retail, real estate, and utility sectors.

According to data compiled, the population

reached 3.7 million in early 2024,

reflecting a significant rise in demand for

consumer goods, housing, and services.

This surge has driven revenue growth for

several Dubai-listed firms, including DEWA

and major mall operators. Analysts expect

the trend to continue as more expatriates

move to Dubai for work, business, and

lifestyle reasons. The city’s favourable

tax environment, global connectivity,

and continuous infrastructure development

are key to sustaining this upward

momentum. Investors are increasingly

viewing demographic trends as crucial

indicators of stock market potential in

the emirate’s dynamic and diversified

economy.


Insight

INSIDE THE MINDS OF

BILLIONAIRES

How the Ultra-Wealthy Make Decisions

Billionaires aren’t just successful because they have vast resources, they have unique

decision-making frameworks that allow them to take calculated risks, spot opportunities

before others, and build wealth sustainably. The way they think and act sets

them apart. While their financial strategies may vary, certain principles unite them.

This feature dives into the cognitive frameworks, risk tolerance, and longterm

perspectives that define the decision-making process of billionaires,

and how you can apply these insights to your own financial journey.

1

Think Long-Term: The

Importance of Patience

One of the most fundamental traits of ultra-wealthy individuals is

their long-term thinking. Billionaires understand that wealth doesn’t

appear overnight, it’s the result of decades of strategic, patient, and

intentional decisions.

Warren Buffett is the quintessential example of long-term thinking.

He famously says, “Our favorite holding period is forever.”

His investments are made with the intention of holding them for

decades, allowing them to grow with the market and his company’s

performance.

Billionaires are not focused on

quick wins. They are focused on

building empires.”

- Warren Buffett

TAKEAWAY

By focusing on long-term growth rather than short-term returns, billionaires allow time to work for them. For individual

investors, this means taking a patient approach to your investments, setting your sights on compounding

returns and strategic growth rather than trying to predict the next big market movement.


2

Focus on Leverage: Investing

Time, Money, and Expertise

Billionaires don’t just rely on their own efforts. They leverage other

people’s time, money, and expertise. This is the foundation of most

successful empires.

Elon Musk is the perfect example of leverage. His ventures

- Tesla, SpaceX, and SolarCity, have grown at an exponential

rate by leveraging public capital (through stock sales), expertise

(top-tier engineers and innovators), and government

support (via subsidies and contracts).

Really, the only thing that makes

sense is to strive for greater

collective enlightenment.”

- Elon Musk

TAKEAWAY

To grow your wealth, think about how you can leverage other people’s resources. This doesn’t mean simply borrowing

money, but finding ways to collaborate, outsource, and form partnerships that multiply your impact and

accelerate growth.

3

Calculated Risk-Taking:

Embrace Risks, But with a Plan

Billionaires aren’t risk-averse, but they take calculated risks.

Their ability to take big risks stems from thorough research,

diverse experience, and a willingness to lose in some areas

to gain in others.

Mark Zuckerberg bet Facebook’s future on acquiring Instagram

for $1 billion in 2012. At the time, this was seen as

an enormous risk, but it paid off with massive returns and

led to Facebook’s expansion into new markets.

The biggest risk is not taking

any risk.”

- Mark Zuckerberg

TAKEAWAY

Billionaires often face risk, but they manage it by minimizing exposure and maximizing upside. As an individual investor

or entrepreneur, this means taking risks but doing so with a structured plan, and never letting emotion cloud

your judgment. Assess the potential upside versus the downside, and only take the risk if the rewards significantly

outweigh the consequences.


Cover Story


COVER

STORY


Cover Story

As one of the UAE’s most influential

private developers, Azizi

Group stands as a testament

to vision-driven growth, scale, and

purposeful impact. From its origins as

a modest business venture, the group

has expanded across real estate, banking,

hospitality, and energy, reshaping

Dubai’s skyline and its story.

Vision Rooted in Resilience

Founded in 1989 by Mirwais Azizi, the

Azizi Group emerged not from opportunity,

but necessity. With just $500

and a desire to build a better future

for his family, Azizi laid the foundation

for what would become a multi-sector

powerhouse. From the beginning, entrepreneurship

for Azizi was rooted in

responsibility: to create livelihoods,

provide homes, and empower people

to build better futures.

His journey began in Afghanistan,

where he ran a small legal practice

before leaving in 1988 in search of

safety and stability. After spending

time in Uzbekistan and launching

ventures in textiles, tobacco, and oil,

Azizi eventually arrived in the UAE, a

move initially meant to be temporary.

But Dubai had something rare: energy,

security, and vision. It wasn’t just a

haven; it was a launchpad. The city’s

openness and ambition resonated with

his own, and what began as a shortterm

solution quickly evolved into a

defining chapter.

Azizi saw Dubai as a place where he

could scale his vision. He didn’t just

want to build homes, he wanted to

build a legacy. In the early 2000s, Azizi

Developments entered the Dubai property

market, focusing on communities

others often overlooked. Al Furjan was

among the first. While many dismissed

its potential, Azizi saw promise, and

that foresight proved well-founded.

Today, Al Furjan stands as one of

Dubai’s most established residential

areas, with Azizi playing a central role

in its transformation.

Throughout, Azizi’s focus has remained

clear: longevity over short-term

gain. Azizi Developments would stand

for more than margins and square

footage, it would be built on trust,

tenacity, and a lasting commitment to

quality. That philosophy was put to the

test during the 2008 global financial

crisis. While others scaled back, Azizi

held firm. He retained his workforce,

reinvested in stalled projects, and

remained focused on delivery. It was

a defining moment that shaped the

company’s culture: steady, people-first,

and resilient.

Today, what began with a few plots of

land has grown into a multi-billion-dollar

development pipeline. Yet the ethos

remains the same, built with purpose,

not pressure. Every decision, from land

acquisition to skyline transformation,

is anchored in the belief that business

is about impact, not just opportunity.

Through it all, Mirwais Azizi’s journey

is a testament to vision, courage, and

the power of building with intention.

Each new district,

tower, and hiring

decision is part of a

larger equation, one

that values permanence

over posturing.”

Defining Projects, Lasting Impact

Azizi Venice – A Cultural & Lifestyle

Destination

A 15.5 million sq. ft. project in Dubai

South, Azizi Venice includes walkable

boulevards, curated public spaces, and

cultural anchors.

36,000

APARTMENTS

109 8KM

MANSIONS

LAGOON

AED 2.5 B

OPERA HOUSE DESIGNED BY

ZAHA HADID ARCHITECTS


Azizi Riviera – A New Urban Language

Over 16,000 homes across 71 buildings, Riviera

brought waterfront living to Mohammed

Bin Rashid City. It wasn’t just about location,

it was about timing, quality, and community

integration.

Azizi Milan – The Future of Masterplanning

Spanning 40 million sq. ft. with 81,200 homes,

this AED 75 billion community integrates rooftop

gardens, carbon offsets, fashion districts, and

long-term sustainability principles.

Burj Azizi – Beyond Height, Toward Meaning

Burj Azizi is set to redefine Dubai’s skyline at 725

meters, becoming the city’s second-tallest tower and

a new global icon of luxury on Sheikh Zayed Road.


Cover Story

By the Numbers

40,000+

HOMES DELIVERED TO 100+

NATIONALITIES

150,000+

UNITS UNDER CONSTRUCTION

(AS OF 2025)

AED 60 B

HOSPITALITY PIPELINE

(50+ HOTELS IN DEVELOPMENT)

725M

BURJ AZIZI’S PROJECTED

HEIGHT

AED 75 B

INVESTMENT IN AZIZI MILAN

Geographic Focus

• Major presence in MBR City, Dubai South, Al

Furjan, Healthcare City, Studio City

• Expansion plans targeting Europe, North

America, and Australia

Innovation & Sustainability

• AI-led planning and quality control

• Prefab and modular systems in Azizi Venice

• Carbon offset measures and energy efficiency

in Azizi Milan

• Smart community integrations and pedestrian-first

layouts

24 www.thefinanceworld.com

May 2025

May 2025

www.thefinanceworld.com 25

Cover Story


Exclusive Interview with FinanceWorld

Q: Azizi Developments has been

shaping Dubai’s skyline and living

experiences for well over a decade

now. As someone who has led this

journey from strength to strength,

how do you reflect on the legacy that

has been built and the responsibility

that comes with it?

Growing up, I had a front-row seat to

entrepreneurship in its rawest form. I

witnessed my father build this company

from the ground up, navigating countless

challenges and setbacks that would have

deterred many. His unwavering resilience

and determination didn’t just shape our

business, they became the foundational

values that continue to guide our operations

today. Those early lessons have

stayed with me as I’ve worked to expand

upon his vision while ensuring we remain

relevant for today’s generation of investors

and residents. It’s been a delicate balance

of honouring the past while embracing

innovation and change.

We’ve delivered over

40,000 homes to more

than 100 nationalities,

and we currently have

150,000 units under

construction. But legacy

is about more than

numbers, it’s about trust

and the lives you shape

through your work.”

From Mohammed bin Rashid City to

Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai South, and

beyond, each project represents more

than just construction; it’s a commitment

to quality, integrity, and contributing

meaningfully to Dubai’s continued evolution.

Every development reflects our

responsibility not just to deliver homes,

but to help shape communities that will

define the city’s future.

For me, legacy isn’t simply something

you inherit, it’s something you must actively

build and nurture every single day. It

requires staying true to your core purpose

while consistently following through on

your promises. That’s the standard we

hold ourselves to, and it’s what drives us

to continue pushing boundaries while

remaining grounded in the values that

brought us here.

Q: As you steer the company into the

future, what goals or milestones will

indicate you have surpassed both your

father’s legacy and your expectations

10 years from now?

Building on my father’s legacy means

more than simply maintaining what he

established, it requires carrying his vision

forward while discovering new frontiers

for the company. He laid an extraordinary

foundation through sheer determination

and unwavering commitment. My role

is to build upon that solid groundwork

by guiding us into new markets and unlocking

possibilities that perhaps weren’t

imaginable when he first started.

When I look ahead ten years, success

for me would be Azizi becoming a globally

recognised, Dubai-born brand with landmark

projects in Europe, North America,

and Australia, while staying true to our

values of quality and giving back. That

global recognition would be the ultimate

testament to how far we’ve travelled from

our humble beginnings.

Simultaneously, I’m focused on realising

our AED 60 billion hospitality division,

with 50 hotels operational and setting

new standards for service excellence

throughout the region. This isn’t just

about expansion, it’s about establishing

benchmarks that others aspire to reach.

However, growth without purpose is hollow.

Equally important to our international

expansion is whether we’ve remained

faithful to our core values. I refuse to

compromise on our commitment to delivering

exceptional quality, enhancing

lifestyles, and contributing meaningfully

to society through initiatives like the Farishta

Medical City and our comprehensive

long-term CSR programs.

For me, true success is defined with a

dual approach: expanding our reach while

staying both relevant and responsible as

we shape the future. It’s about proving

that a company can achieve global ambitions

without losing sight of the values

and community that made it possible in

the first place.

Q: What does the concept of lifestyle

mean in your leadership ethos, and

how is that translated into the DNA

of every Azizi project?

For me, lifestyle is fundamentally about

intention, not excess. Every Azizi project

is conceived with a singular mission: to

be more than just a place to live in, but a

space that genuinely enhances how people

experience their daily lives. This philosophy

drives every decision we make, from

initial concept to final delivery.

Our approach begins with mastering

the essentials: well-planned layouts that

maximise functionality, abundant natural

light, optimal air circulation, genuine privacy,

and spaces that adapt to residents’

evolving needs. But we don’t stop there.

We delve deeper into the details that truly

shape comfort and atmosphere: the acoustics

that ensure tranquillity, the materials

that create warmth and durability, and

the seamless flow between rooms that

makes a house feel like a home.

We invest considerable time studying

the psychology of design, constantly examining

how each architectural choice influences

our residents’ sense of well-being.

This isn’t abstract theory, it’s a practical

application that shows up in everything

we create.

You can witness this philosophy come

to life across our communities. The swimmable

lagoons in Azizi Venice create a

resort-like experience that transforms

daily living into something extraordinary.

The pedestrian-friendly boulevards of

Riviera foster genuine community connections

and encourage outdoor living.

The thoughtfully curated amenities at

Azizi Milan reflect our understanding

that luxury today means anticipating

needs before they’re expressed.

I believe true luxury in

today’s world isn’t about

ostentation, it’s about

care and intention woven

throughout every aspect

of the development

process.”

As both a developer and a leader, my

responsibility is ensuring this mindset

permeates everything we create, because

ultimately, we’re not just building prop-


Cover Story

erties, we’re crafting the backdrop for

people’s lives.

Q: Every Azizi development seems

to breathe a certain lifestyle. How

did you arrive at this focus, and how

are you measuring its resonance with

your buyers today?

Our success formula came from one fundamental

principle: listening. From day

one, we’ve recognised that real estate is

ultimately about people, and we’ve made

it our mission to understand the evolving

lifestyle aspirations of those seeking

homes and investment opportunities.

This market intelligence didn’t happen

overnight. We’ve spent years continually

monitoring what residents truly value and

how their expectations are shifting in

response to global trends, generational

changes, and evolving work-life dynamics.

Through this process, we’ve identified

pronounced lifestyle aspirations that have

become the blueprint for our product

development. This deep understanding is

why our master plans feature integrated

communities, comprehensive wellness

facilities, convenient retail access, scenic

waterfront promenades, and even culturally

rich elements like our dedicated

opera district. We’re not just responding

to current demand, we’re anticipating how

people will want to live, not just today,

but five and ten years from now.

The market response validates our

approach decisively. Projects like Riviera,

Venice, and Milan are experiencing

exceptional demand from both local and

international investors, but the true measure

of our success extends beyond initial

sales figures. We see it in the loyalty of

repeat buyers who trust us with multiple

investments, the organic word-of-mouth

referrals that drive new business, and the

remarkable speed at which new phases

are absorbed by the market.

When entire buildings sell out within

hours of launch, as we witnessed with

the first building in Azizi Milan, it sends a

clear signal that our vision is resonating

powerfully with the market. These aren’t

just transactions; they’re validations that

we’ve successfully identified and delivered

on genuine lifestyle aspirations that people

are willing to invest in for their future.

Q: From your past three years of

sales data, what buying patterns

or market shifts surprised you the

most, especially in terms of buyer

nationality, payment behaviour, or

unit size preferences?

The most significant transformation we’ve

witnessed has been the dramatic increase

in end-user residents who are choosing to

purchase rather than rent. This shift has

been accelerated by Dubai’s progressive

long-term visa initiatives and the city’s

growing reputation as an ideal place to

establish roots, not just visit.

This fundamental change has reshaped

payment behaviours in meaningful ways.

We’re seeing more buyers gravitate toward

flexible post-handover payment plans,

prioritising lasting value and quality of

life over quick investment returns. It’s

a maturation of the market that reflects

Dubai’s evolution from a primarily transient

business hub to a genuine home

for global citizens. Equally compelling is

the diversification of our investor base.

Throughout 2024, we

experienced robust

interest from European,

North American, and

MENA region investors

while maintaining strong

support from Emirati

buyers in our latest

launches.”

This international mix underscores

Dubai’s unique position as both a compelling

place to live and a strategic location

to invest.

Property preferences have evolved just

as dramatically. While studios and one-bedroom

apartments continue to attract interest,

we’re witnessing a pronounced shift

toward larger configurations, two-bedroom

units, waterfront penthouses, and villas,

particularly within our master-planned

communities like Azizi Venice and Azizi

Milan. Today’s buyers are seeking more

than square footage; they want expansive

living spaces, premium amenities, and an

authentic sense of community. They’re

investing in lifestyle ecosystems rather

than simply purchasing units. Recognising

this evolution, we’ve strategically shaped

our portfolio to meet these sophisticated

demands, ensuring our developments

offer the space, quality, and community

experience that modern residents expect.

This trend reflects a broader maturation;

buyers are making more considered,

long-term decisions about where and how

they want to live, and we’re committed

to delivering properties that honour that

commitment.

Q: With off-plan sales and branded

residences proliferating, Dubai is attracting

a new wave of global firsttime

investors. What advice would

you give to those considering entering

the market now?

Dubai’s real estate market stands on remarkably

strong fundamentals that continue

to attract global attention. The emirate’s

zero income tax policy, combined with

progressive initiatives like the Golden Visa

program for long-term residency and 100%

foreign business ownership, has created

one of the world’s most transparent and

investor-friendly regulatory environments.

These structural advantages are drawing

a new generation of first-time investors

to the market.

However, the landscape has evolved

significantly. Private capital has become

increasingly sophisticated and discerning.

Today’s buyers demand substance over

spectacle, they want real delivery, clear

accountability, and lasting value from

their investments. This shift represents

a maturation of the market that benefits

everyone involved.

My advice to newcomers considering

Dubai’s real estate market is to look beyond

the headlines and marketing hype.

Focus on the fundamentals that truly matter.

Pay close attention to build quality,

scrutinise the developer’s track record,

evaluate location advantages, assess

overall value proposition, and examine

how thoughtfully lifestyle elements are

integrated into each project.

What’s particularly encouraging is

the changing nature of demand. We’re

witnessing a fundamental shift where

purchases are increasingly driven by

people who plan to live in these homes,

rather than purely speculative investors.

This trend toward owner-occupancy is

creating a more stable and sustainable

market foundation.

The properties commanding the highest

demand today share several key characteristics:

they offer longevity through quality


The New Icon:

Burj Azizi

Beyond Height, Toward Meaning

Standing at 725 meters, Burj Azizi is poised to be the world’s second-tallest

tower. Yet its ambition is rooted not in record-breaking, but in purpose.

1,038

BRANDED RESIDENCES

128

PENTHOUSES

7-STAR

HOTEL

THE WORLD’S HIGHEST HOTEL

LOBBY AT

LEVEL 111

A RESTAURANT ON

LEVEL 122

PANORAMIC DECK ON

LEVEL 130


Cover Story

construction, carry strong sustainability

credentials, feature thoughtful design that

enhances daily living, and foster a genuine

sense of community among residents.

These aren’t just places to park capital,

they’re environments where people want

to build their lives.

This understanding has shaped our entire

portfolio strategy. From the walkable

waterfront environment of Azizi Venice,

which emphasises community and lifestyle

integration, to the signature luxury

positioning of Burj Azizi, we’ve aligned

our developments with these emerging

market preferences.

For anyone considering entering Dubai’s

real estate market now, the potential

remains significant. However, success

requires a strategic approach: invest in

a vision for the future, not just in what’s

visible or trending today. The market rewards

those who think long-term and

prioritise substance over style.

Q: Azizi Milan, your newly announced

AED 75 billion development, is being

introduced as a high-yield opportunity.

What makes this project particularly

attractive to today’s yield-conscious

investors?

Azizi Milan represents everything we

believe makes a compelling investment

opportunity in today’s market. It combines

three critical elements that directly impact

long-term returns: exceptional scale, integrated

sustainability, and genuine appeal

to end-users who will call this place home.

This isn’t simply a collection of residential

buildings.

Azizi Milan is a

comprehensively masterplanned

community that

spans an impressive 40

million square feet.”

The scope is remarkable, 81,200 homes

supported by over 800 hotel keys, dedicated

schools, healthcare facilities, retail

spaces, and essential public infrastructure,

all planned and integrated from the

project’s inception.

The market response has validated our

vision. Our first building sold out within

an hour of launch, which speaks volumes

about the pent-up demand for this type

of holistic development approach.

Sustainability isn’t an afterthought

here, it’s woven into the project’s DNA.

We’ve incorporated rooftop gardens

throughout the community, implemented

comprehensive carbon offset initiatives,

and integrated energy-efficient systems

across all buildings. From an investment

perspective, Azizi Milan offers a compelling

proposition. The combination of its

prime location, diverse iconic amenities,

and comprehensive master planning creates

multiple value drivers. Investors can

expect both capital appreciation and solid

rental yields, supported by an environment

specifically designed to retain existing

residents while continuously attracting

new ones.

What sets this project apart is its focus

on creating a genuine community

rather than just providing housing. When

residents have access to everything they

need within the development, from education

and healthcare to entertainment

and retail, they stay longer, creating the

stable occupancy rates that drive consistent

returns for investors.

Q: You have spoken about smart

construction and modular systems.

Could you walk us through one project

where tech-forward construction

significantly affected cost, time, or

quality metrics?

Our construction approach has evolved

significantly as we’ve scaled our operations,

with Azizi Venice serving as a prime

example of how advanced methodologies

can transform project delivery. As the

master developer for this waterfront city

in Dubai South, we oversee the complete

development spectrum from roads and

utilities to the lagoon itself, which requires

unprecedented coordination and

efficiency.

Given the ambitious scale and timeline

commitments we’ve made, traditional

construction methods simply aren’t

sufficient. We have therefore integrated

prefabrication and off-site manufacturing

into our core processes, producing

structural elements, MEP systems, and

facade modules in controlled factory environments

before transporting them to

the site for assembly.

The results have been transformative.

This approach has reduced construction

waste by up to 60%, dramatically improved

site safety conditions, and enabled us to

assemble components with far greater

precision and speed than conventional

methods allow. When you’re coordinating

multiple buildings simultaneously, these

efficiency gains compound rapidly.

Technology plays an equally crucial role

in our operations. We deploy AI-driven

planning tools that optimise scheduling

and resource allocation across our entire

portfolio, while drones provide real-time

progress tracking and quality control

across multiple sites simultaneously.

We’re also actively exploring modular

construction systems and digital twin

integrations for our upcoming projects,

where data-driven design and smart procurement

strategies will become even

more critical to maintaining our competitive

edge.

Q: Azizi is considering an IPO. Beyond

capital, what would listing mean for

the group’s next chapter?

We are very well-funded, predominantly

through the reinvestment of our profits

from our handed-over projects. This

self-reliance grants us significantly better

control over our construction quality

By systematically

reinvesting cash flows

from our project sales,

we have established

robust liquidity reserves

that fully support our

current growth plans.”

and timelines.

This financial independence eliminates

our immediate need for external funding

or sukuk issuance, allowing us to maintain

complete autonomy over our development

decisions and execution standards.

However, we maintain a pragmatic

view toward future financing options.

We remain open to strategic external

funding if it supports our broader expansion

vision and adds genuine value

beyond just capital injection. Our preparedness

for various funding scenarios

is well-established. Before the pandemic,

we were fully prepared to launch a sukuk

offering, having completed comprehensive


audits by two of the Big Four accounting

firms. The groundwork was entirely in

place. However, the exceptionally strong

post-pandemic sales performance across

our portfolio made external financing unnecessary

at that time.

Currently, our internal capital reserves

are more than sufficient to maintain our

construction pipeline and meet all delivery

commitments. We’re in the fortunate position

of having multiple strategic options

available to us. Though we may revisit

external financing alternatives, whether

through sukuk issuance or even an IPO,

but only if they offer clear strategic value

beyond our existing self-funded growth

trajectory.

Q: We are seeing a rapid rise in crypto

transactions within Dubai’s real estate

market in 2025. How do you see

digital assets playing a larger role in

property investment going forward?

The growth of digital assets in real estate

is an exciting shift, and we’re paying close

attention to how this trend could shape

the future. While traditional finance still

leads the way, Dubai’s market is moving

quickly, with regulators supporting new

ideas and building investor trust. At Azizi

Developments, our exploration of digital

asset integration centres on three core

principles: simplification, security, and

accessibility. We believe these technologies

have the potential to streamline complex

transaction processes, enhance security

protocols through blockchain verification,

and most importantly, open doors

for demographics that have traditionally

faced barriers in real estate investment.

Any steps in this direction will be measured

and fully in line with regulations.

We’re open to adopting new technology

if it adds genuine value for our clients

and ensures compliance and reliability.

When the time is right and the benefits are

clear, we’ll be prepared to move forward.

Q: With the Dubai 2040 Master Plan

in motion, what specific role does

Azizi want to play in shaping the city’s

next growth curve?

Dubai’s 2040 Urban Master Plan lays out

an ambitious vision for the city’s future,

one that closely aligns with our long-term

approach at Azizi Developments. With

150,000 units under construction and

a broad mix of projects across luxury,

mixed-use, hospitality, and premium segments,

we’re contributing to the city’s

goals for residential growth, enhanced

liveability, and tourism infrastructure.

Our focus on large,

integrated communities

such as Azizi Venice,

Azizi Milan, and Riviera

directly reflect Dubai’s

goals for connectivity,

sustainability, and

elevated quality of life.

We are building for

tomorrow.”

This comprehensive approach extends

to our AED 60 billion investment in hospitality

and the upcoming Burj Azizi, the

world’s second-tallest tower, which underscores

our unwavering commitment to

strengthening Dubai’s global presence and

enriching its cultural landscape. Through

these strategic initiatives, we’re not merely

developing properties but fundamentally

shaping how people will live, connect,

and experience the city for generations

to come, ensuring that our contributions

create lasting value that transcends individual

projects to build the foundation

of Dubai’s urban future.

Q: How would you define a ‘successful’

real estate project in 2030, and what

are your plans for future-proofing

your portfolio?

By 2030, the most successful real estate

projects will be those that have anticipated

changing demographics, social trends,

and environmental needs. With Dubai’s

population set to reach 7.8 million by 2040,

we’re witnessing a fundamental shift in

what people want from their homes. It’s

no longer just about investment returns,

residents are seeking communities built

for the long haul.

This philosophy drives everything we

do at projects like Azizi Venice and Azizi

Milan. We’re creating neighbourhoods

where you can walk to work, grab coffee,

catch a cultural event, and handle daily

errands without getting in your car. It’s

about designing complete ecosystems,

not just buildings.

We are also putting sustainable practices

and green design at the heart of our

projects, keeping in step with evolving

buyer expectations. For us, future-proofing

is about looking ahead and making sure

what we deliver meets the aspirations of

tomorrow’s residents.


Banking


Digital banking offers convenience, while traditional banks ensure personalised service.

Digital Banking vs

Brick-and-Mortar:

Who is Winning the

Future of Finance?

Comparing the Convenience of

Digital Banking with the Reliability of

Traditional Banks.

The banking industry has evolved significantly,

presenting consumers with diverse

options to manage their finances. Traditional

banks with physical branches have

long been the foundation of personal and

business banking, offering personalised

services and face-to-face interactions.

However, the rise of digital banks has

introduced a new era of convenience and

accessibility, appealing to tech-savvy users

seeking efficient, round-the-clock services.

While traditional banks excel in providing

in-person assistance and comprehensive

financial products, digital banks leverage

technology to offer streamlined services

at lower costs. As consumers increasingly

seek tailored financial solutions, understanding

each model becomes essential

in making informed banking decisions.


The evolution of banking has

transformed how consumers interact

with financial institutions,

offering various options from traditional

banks to fully digital platforms. Traditional

banks, with physical branches,

provide personalised services and a

sense of security for many. However,

they often involve higher fees and less

convenience compared to their digital

counterparts. On the other hand, digital

banks offer efficiency, lower costs, and

enhanced accessibility, particularly

appealing to tech-savvy users. Yet,

they face challenges like cybersecurity

concerns and limited human interaction.

As the banking landscape continues to

evolve, consumers increasingly seek

a blend of convenience, security, and

personalised experiences to meet their

financial needs effectively.

Brick-and-Mortar Banks

Traditional banks with physical branches

have been the backbone of personal

and business finance for decades. Their

tangible presence enables face-to-face

interactions, building trust and providing

personalised service. Customers can

conveniently access services like cash

deposits, withdrawals, and in-person

consultations, which appeal to those

who prioritise direct human contact.

Additionally, traditional banks often

offer a broader range of financial

products, including loans, mortgages,

and wealth management, all under one

roof. However, despite their reliability

and comprehensive services, traditional

banks face challenges in keeping up

with the convenience and cost-efficiency

of digital banking solutions. As

technology advances, they must adapt

to remain relevant in an increasingly

digital landscape.

Digital Banking

In contrast, digital banks function

entirely online, providing services

via mobile apps and websites without

physical branches. This model utilises

technology to deliver a convenient,

efficient banking experience, particularly

appealing to tech-savvy users

who value accessibility. Key features

include 24/7 account access, real-time

transaction tracking, and automated

financial tools that enhance user

control over finances. Additionally,

digital banks often offer lower fees and

higher interest rates due to reduced

operational costs. However, the lack of

in-person services may deter individuals

seeking personalised assistance. As

digital banking continues to grow, it

challenges traditional banks to enhance

their technological capabilities and

offer more streamlined, user-friendly

services to remain competitive.

Accessibility and Convenience

Digital banks offer unmatched convenience,

enabling customers to manage

their finances anytime, anywhere. This

flexibility appeals to those with busy

schedules or living in remote areas

without easy access to traditional bank

branches. With features like instant

transfers, real-time transaction alerts,

and budgeting tools, digital banks

provide a streamlined experience.

However, the absence of physical

locations can be a drawback for services

needing face-to-face interaction,

such as cash deposits or document

notarization. Additionally, concerns

The UAE is committed to

advancing the adoption

of cutting-edge financial

technologies, accelerating

digital transformation,

and integrating digital

solutions to promote

financial inclusivity and

improve access to savings

accounts.”

H.E. Mohamed bin Hadi Al Hussaini, Minister

of State for Financial Affairs

about cybersecurity and data privacy

may deter some users. Despite these

challenges, digital banks continue to

grow in popularity, driven by their user-friendly

platforms and cost-effective

financial solutions.

Customer Service

The quality of customer service varies

between the two models. Brick-andmortar

banks offer personalized assistance,

which can be crucial for complex

financial matters or for customers who

prefer face-to-face communication. Digital

banks, while lacking physical interaction,

often provide robust customer

support through chat, email, or phone,

with some offering 24/7 assistance. The

effectiveness of these services largely

depends on the individual’s comfort

with digital communication channels.

Cost Efficiency

Operating without physical branches

allows digital banks to reduce overhead

costs, savings that are often passed on

to customers in the form of lower fees

and higher interest rates on deposits.

Traditional banks, burdened with the

expenses associated with maintaining

physical locations, may charge higher

fees for certain services. However,

they compensate by offering a broader

range of in-person services that digital

banks might not provide.

Security Considerations

Both banking models emphasise security

but implement it differently.

Traditional banks rely on physical

security measures, in-person verification,

and secure vaults to prevent

fraud. Their face-to-face interactions

provide an added layer of assurance for

customers. On the other hand, digital

banks employ cutting-edge encryption

technologies, multi-factor authentication,

and continuous monitoring to

safeguard customer data. While online

platforms are more vulnerable to cyber

threats, strict security protocols and

constant technological advancements

help minimise risks. Despite the differences,

both models are committed

to enhancing safety and maintaining

customer trust. However, digital banks

are steadily gaining popularity due to

their unparalleled convenience. As the

financial landscape continues to evolve,

consumers are empowered with more

choices than ever before.


Banking News

CBUAE Appoints

Leaders for Sanadak

Ombudsman Unit


(CBUAE) has appointed Faiza

Al Awadhi as the Chief Executive

Officer and Managing Director

of “Sanadak”, the region’s first Ombudsman

Unit. With over 25 years

of experience spanning public and

private sectors, Al Awadhi has focused

extensively on consumer protection

and service excellence. She previously

led the Market Conduct and Financial

Consumer Protection Department at

CBUAE, shaping regulatory and supervisory

frameworks. Her earlier roles

include strategic leadership positions

in planning, communications, and

branch operations. A founding board

member of Sanadak, she has actively

contributed to local and international

committees, including FinCoNet under

the OECD. She currently chairs the

National Working Group for Financial

Consumer Protection and Financial

Literacy. Al Awadhi holds an LL.M.

in International Business Law from

Université Paris-Panthéon-Assas and

certifications in governance, compliance,

and leadership.

UAE Bank Investments Hit $202bn in Jan 2025

The UAE banking sector continued

its robust growth trajectory

in January 2025, with

total bank investments rising by 1

per cent month-on-month to AED

742.9 billion, marking a 16.1 per cent

increase from January 2024, as per the

Central Bank of the UAE. Investments

in debt securities surged to AED 332.3

billion, up 26.1 per cent annually, while

held-to-maturity bonds reached AED

335.7 billion, reflecting a 7.9 per cent

yearly gain despite a slight monthly

dip. Equity investments stood at AED

19.1 billion, rising 19.4 per cent yearon-year,

though down 1.5 per cent

from December. Other investments

increased 13.2 per cent to AED 55.8

billion. Banking assets grew to AED

4.562 trillion. UAEFTS processed over

AED 1.786 trillion, including AED

118.48 billion in cheque clearances.

UBF Unveils Plans to Advance Banking and

Finance Sector

The CEOs Advisory Council of the

UAE Banks Federation (UBF),

chaired by Abdulaziz Al-Ghurair,

convened to assess the performance

of the UAE’s banking and financial

sector in 2024 and to discuss its strategic

direction for 2025. Commending

the sector’s robust performance, the

council credited the Central Bank

of the UAE (CBUAE) for fostering

growth and financial stability through

enhanced regulatory frameworks and

monetary policies. The banking sector,

now the largest in the Middle East by

total assets, grew by 12% to reach AED

4.56 trillion, underscoring the UAE’s

rising prominence as a global financial

hub. Al Ghurair also highlighted progress

in Emiratisation, with banks surpassing

targets by achieving a 152.9%

growth rate and hiring 2,866 Emiratis,

reaffirming the sector’s commitment

to national employment priorities and

long-term economic development.

CBUAE Gold Reserves Rise 7% to AED 24.57 Billion in January

The Central Bank of the United

Arab Emirates (CBUAE) has

reported a notable 7% increase

in its gold reserves, reaching AED

24.571 billion ($6.7 billion) by the

end of January 2025. This represents

a growth of AED 1.59 billion from the

AED 22.981 billion recorded at the

close of December 2024, according to

the CBUAE’s Monthly Statistical Bulletin

for January. Along with the gold

reserves, demand deposits also saw

a rise, exceeding AED 1.116 trillion

by the end of January, compared to

AED 1.109 trillion the previous month.

These deposits were split between

AED 834.9 billion in local currency

and AED 281.5 billion in foreign

currencies. The report highlights an

upward trend in both gold reserves

and various types of deposits, reflecting

growing confidence in the UAE’s

financial sector.


Mashreq Bank Secures Strong Demand for Sukuk

A

$500 million five-year fixed sukuk

was priced by Mashreq Bank,

ahead of its originally scheduled

Wednesday launch, driven by favourable

market conditions and strong investor

demand. This issuance became the

first from the CEEMEA region since

the US tariff announcement on 2 April,

with Mashreq’s solid credit ratings

(A3/A/A) and prominent position in the

UAE banking sector, positioning it as a

natural choice to reopen the market. The

mandate had been announced, followed

by investor engagements in London. Due

to overwhelming interest, the deal was

brought forward. The initial price guidance

of 140 basis points over US Treasuries

was narrowed to 105 basis points, with

peak orders reaching $2.8 billion, and

the order book closed at $2.65 billion.

A lead banker confirmed that the sukuk

was priced at fair value.

UAE Banking Assets

Reach $1.24T in 2025


highlights robust financial

fundamentals, record asset growth,

and rising global rankings across banking

and Islamic finance sectors. The UAE’s

banking sector achieved a significant

milestone in 2024, with total assets rising

by 12% to reach AED 4.56 trillion ($1.24

trillion). According to the Central Bank

of the UAE (CBUAE) annual report, this

growth cements the country’s position

as the leading banking hub in the Middle

East. The sector’s foundation remains

strong, supported by high capitalisation,

consistent profitability, stable reserves,

and ample liquidity. The report also

noted a strong performance from the

insurance sector, with total gross written

premiums climbing to AED 64.8 billion.

“Our transformative initiatives and

projects launched in 2024 have enhanced

the efficiency and competitiveness of

the financial sector, helping build a

more resilient and sustainable financial

system,” stated Khaled Mohamed Balama,

Governor of the CBUAE.

ADGM FSRA Fines HAYVN Group $8.85 Million

The Financial Services Regulatory

Authority (FSRA) of Abu

Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)

has imposed enforcement actions on

the Hayvn Group, its former CEO,

Christopher Flinos, and related entities

following an investigation into serious

regulatory breaches. The FSRA’s investigation

revealed significant violations

in the operations of three affiliated

companies under the “HAYVN” brand

and misconduct involving Flinos. To

mitigate risks, the FSRA ensured no

ADGM client assets were affected by

the violations. As part of the enforcement

actions, the FSRA revoked the

Financial Services Permission (FSP)

of “Hayvn ADGM,” imposed an indefinite

ban on Flinos from holding any

financial services roles within ADGM,

and levied financial penalties totalling

USD 8.85 million across the involved

parties. These steps were necessary to

maintain the integrity of the financial

market.

Abu Dhabi Exports Office Signs $235M Loan

with Trafigura

The Abu Dhabi Exports Office

(ADEX) has secured a $235 million

syndicated loan agreement

with Japan’s Sumitomo Mitsui Banking

Corporation (SMBC) and the Commercial

Bank of Dubai (CBD) to support

Trafigura, a global commodities leader,

in acquiring UAE-originated commodities.

This strategic partnership aims to

boost UAE exports and align with the

nation’s economic diversification objectives.

ADEX led the financing with

$150 million, facilitating Trafigura’s

acquisition of UAE commodities in

sectors like energy, metals, and minerals.

CBD contributed $65 million, while

SMBC coordinated the syndication

with $20 million. This collaboration

strengthens the UAE’s trade position,

enhances market access for Emirati

products, and supports the nation’s

long-term vision for economic resilience

and diversification through robust

international trade relationships.


Opinion

Hiral Patel,

CFO at Chalet Berezka

Is the Future CFO

Also an Operations

Guru? 5 Lessons

from Chalet

Berezka’s Hiral Patel


May 2025

In today’s rapidly evolving business

landscape, the traditional role of the

CFO is undergoing a dramatic shift.

No longer confined to spreadsheets

and quarterly forecasts, CFOs are

increasingly stepping into operational

leadership, blending analytical acumen

with real-time business execution.

Hiral Patel, CFO at Chalet Berezka,

exemplifies this new paradigm.

With over 15 years of experience

spanning finance and hospitality, Hiral

has redefined what it means to be a

modern finance leader. Since joining

Chalet Berezka in 2018, he has not

only overseen financial planning and

budgeting but also played a critical

role in operational oversight, strategic

expansion, and cultural stewardship.

His journey offers valuable lessons

for CFOs who aspire to lead beyond

the numbers.

Here are five transformative lessons

from Hiral Patel’s unique approach:

1. Leave the Desk - Immerse Yourself

in Operations

One of the key turning points in Patel’s

career was moving beyond the

finance department to spend more

time with the operations team. “That

shift transformed my decisions, it made

them more nuanced and grounded,” he

recalls. This floor-level insight enabled

him to make strategic decisions that

were not only financially sound but

also operationally practical.

Lesson: Modern CFOs must integrate

themselves into day-to-day operations.

Understanding the challenges and

rhythms of frontline teams fosters

better decision-making and enhances

credibility across departments.

2. Marry Financial Discipline with

Creativity and Brand Thinking

Hiral’s decision-making framework

goes beyond cost control and cash

flow. He emphasizes the importance of

brand positioning, customer insights,

and creative risk-taking. “Investing in

sustainability and innovation is key to

standing out in a competitive market,”

he notes.

Lesson: The modern CFO isn’t just a

gatekeeper of budgets, they’re a catalyst

for innovation. Long-term value is

built through calculated investments

in brand equity, not just short-term

profitability.

3. Treat Every Strategic Pivot

as an Opportunity

When Chalet Berezka relocated from

The Pointe Mall to Nakheel, Patel

avoided potential revenue losses by

quickly launching a cloud kitchen using

existing equipment. This initiative

not only sustained cash flow but also

expanded the brand’s digital presence.

“Today, our cloud kitchen still contributes

significantly to revenue and even

caters to international events,” he adds.

Lesson: Agility is essential. CFOs

must be prepared to pivot strategically,

transforming potential setbacks into

growth avenues by leveraging available

assets creatively.

4. Operational Oversight is

Not Optional - It’s Strategic

Hiral’s dual role means he oversees

everything from budgeting and risk

management to construction and expansion.

He is currently leading Chalet

Berezka’s growth in Ras Al Khaimah,

Abu Dhabi, and Europe. His ability to

bridge finance and operations is what

sets him apart.

I don’t just focus on

numbers, I understand

how they translate into

action on the floor.”

Lesson: Strategic growth demands a

CFO who can align financial goals with

operational execution. Future-ready

CFOs need to be systems thinkers

who can manage complexity across

departments.

5. Develop Teams for Tomorrow,

Not Just Today

As a mentor, Hiral emphasizes outcome-linked

goals, cross-functional

exposure, and well-being.

Leadership isn’t just about

driving results, it’s about

nurturing people.”

He advocates mental health, continuous

learning, and building future leaders

who can navigate both finance and

business strategy.

Lesson: A CFO’s legacy is built not just

on financial outcomes, but on the teams

they inspire and develop. Empowered

finance teams that understand the broader

business landscape are invaluable in

today’s dynamic environment.

Hiral Patel’s leadership at Chalet

Berezka proves that the CFO of the future

is no longer just a number cruncher.

They’re strategic partners, operational

leaders, and innovation champions. His

ability to connect financial precision

with operational depth has not only

driven Chalet Berezka’s sustained growth

but also redefined what’s possible for

finance professionals in hospitality

and beyond.

For CFOs aiming to stay ahead, the

message is clear: broaden your scope,

lead with empathy, and never underestimate

the power of stepping out from

behind the desk.

About Chalet Berezka

Chalet Berezka is a dynamic destination

that brings the essence of Russian soul,

cuisine, and culture to the Middle East.

Known for its vibrant atmosphere, the

venue offers an immersive experience

featuring gourmet dishes, live entertainment,

and karaoke that continues

into the early hours, catering to an

international audience.

The menu showcases a fusion of

fresh, high-quality ingredients with

traditional Russian recipes, enriched

by global culinary influences. Whether

it’s an evening with panoramic views or

a night of singing, they offer something

memorable for every guest.

May 2025


The highly anticipated FinanceWorld

UAE Realty Awards 2025 unfolded

in grand style in Dubai, setting a

new benchmark for excellence, glamour,

and celebration in the UAE’s dynamic

real estate sector. This prestigious

event brought together a distinguished

assembly of industry leaders, innovators,

and visionaries, all converging to honour

the trailblazers shaping the future of the

UAE’s property landscape.

The evening was a testament to the

region’s commitment to architectural

innovation, sustainable development,

and real estate ingenuity, reflecting the

market’s vibrancy and resilience. The

awards not only recognised outstanding

achievements but also fostered dialogue

on the real estate sector’s evolving

dynamics, setting the stage for future

collaborations and advancements.


LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

A visionary pioneer in real estate, Hussain Sajwani has

redefined luxury living globally. His leadership at DAMAC

Group continues to shape skylines across continents.

FEMALE REAL ESTATE LEADER OF THE YEAR

Amira Sajwani is trailblazing the path for women in real estate with

innovation and strategic foresight. Her contributions are empowering

a new generation in the industry.

YOUNG ACHIEVER IN REAL ESTATE OF THE YEAR

At the helm of Binghatti, Muhammad Binghatti is reshaping urban

design with bold architectural flair.

RISING REAL ESTATE ENTREPRENEUR TO WATCH

Calum White is disrupting the brokerage space with a high-performance

team at White & Co. A dynamic force setting new benchmarks in

the real estate world.

May 2025


REAL ESTATE CEO OF THE YEAR

Under Imran Farooq’s visionary leadership, Samana Developers achieved

remarkable growth, solidifying its position among Dubai’s top developers.

DEVELOPER OF THE YEAR

Wasl Group’s exceptional developments enrich Dubai’s landscape with quality

and value. A trusted name delivering excellence at scale.

LANDMARK DEVELOPMENT OF THE YEAR:

PALM JEBEL ALI

Palm Jebel Ali is a groundbreaking marvel that redefines coastal living in

Dubai. Nakheel’s visionary comeback project is set to make global headlines.

MASTER DEVELOPER OF THE YEAR

From mega communities to luxury towers, DAMAC continues to set new

standards in master development. Its footprint is synonymous with opulence

and vision.

MOST ADMIRED REAL ESTATE BRAND OF THE

YEAR

Sobha Group’s commitment to craftsmanship and quality has earned admiration

across the industry. A benchmark in luxury and reliability.

42 www.thefinanceworld.com Aug May 2024

2025



HIGH-RISE RESIDENTIAL PROJECT OF THE YEAR

Rising boldly in the Dubai skyline, Tiger Sky Tower reflects futuristic design

and luxury. A standout project from Tiger Properties.

FASTEST GROWING REAL ESTATE DEVELOPER

OF THE YEAR

With striking projects and rapid expansion, Binghatti has become the fastestgrowing

name in real estate. Innovation is at the core of its growth story.

ICONIC DESIGN OF THE YEAR AWARD

Burj Azizi is a new design icon that marries grandeur with elegance. Azizi

Developments is crafting Dubai’s next architectural marvel.

URBAN DEVELOPER OF THE YEAR

DarGlobal is transforming urban spaces with lifestyle-centric developments

worldwide. A rising force bridging design and functionality.

SMART AND SUSTAINABLE PROJECT OF

THE YEAR

Takaya embodies green living and smart tech integration in real estate. Union

Properties leads the way in future-ready communities.



WATERFRONT DEVELOPMENT OF THE YEAR

Six Senses The Palm is a tranquil luxury oasis that sets a new benchmark

in waterfront living. Select Group delivers serenity and style on the shores.

ULTRA LUXURY RESIDENTIAL PROJECT OF

THE YEAR

The Alba Residences offer refined living with artistic elegance and exclusivity.

OMNIYAT continues to define ultra-luxury in the region.

ULTRA-LUXURY DEVELOPER OF THE YEAR

Amali Properties crafts residences that blend elite design with bespoke luxury.

A symbol of prestige in the ultra-luxury space.

LUXURY VILLA PROJECT OF THE YEAR

This exclusive villa project at La Mer radiates timeless luxury and coastal

charm. Almal Real Estate delivers architectural excellence.

DESIGN EXCELLENCE AWARD

Provance Decoration brings spaces to life with stunning aesthetics and design

precision. A true artisan in interior and spatial storytelling.

May 2025


BEST AMENITIES PROVIDER OF THE YEAR

Dubai Residential sets the gold standard for lifestyle amenities in real estate.

Enhancing everyday living with unmatched community features.

RISING ULTRA LUXURY DEVELOPER OF

THE YEAR

Source of Fate is emerging as a powerhouse in curated ultra-luxury developments.

Their vision is shaping next-gen elite living.

BRANDED RESIDENCES OF THE YEAR

Fairmont Residences Solara Tower blends global luxury hospitality with iconic

design. SOL Properties delivers branded excellence.

COMMUNITY DEVELOPER OF THE YEAR

LEAD Development focuses on creating vibrant, inclusive communities. A

leader in placemaking and sustainable neighbourhood growth.

BEST BEACHFRONT PROPERTY OF THE YEAR

The Beach Vista offers breathtaking views and seamless luxury living by the

sea. Range Developments perfects beachfront elegance.


May 2025



LIFESTYLE DEVELOPER OF THE YEAR

Irth Group champions well-being and holistic living in its real estate approach.

Lifestyle is not just a feature, it’s a philosophy.

DIGITAL REAL ESTATE PLATFORM OF THE YEAR

Property Finder continues to revolutionise how people discover real estate in

the UAE. The go-to digital hub for informed property decisions.

EMERGING DEVELOPER OF THE YEAR

GFS Developments is rapidly gaining traction with unique, customer-focused

projects. A rising name with a bold vision.

PROP TECH SOLUTIONS OF THE YEAR

Reelly.ai is transforming property marketing through AI-powered video

automation. The future of real estate content creation is here.

EMERGING URBAN DEVELOPER OF THE YEAR

Object 1 is building future-ready urban spaces with style and substance. A

promising name in the evolution of modern cities.

FinanceWorld UAE Realty Awards 2025 was presented by Wasaya Investments

and powered by iFund Factoring, driven by The Elite Cars (a subsidiary of

Elite Group Holding), and supported by FNP. The event was a magnificent

gathering of senior government officials, veteran industry leaders, renowned

real estate experts, and distinguished guests. The evening also featured

captivating performances and showcases, adding a touch of artistic flair to

the proceedings. As the night concluded, attendees departed with a renewed

sense of inspiration and a shared vision for the future, having witnessed the

recognition of excellence that continues to drive the UAE’s real estate sector

forward.


Economy


Dubai’s infrastructure development may be the key to overcoming traffic congestion.

Can Dubai’s

Infrastructure

Solve Congestion

and Drive Growth?

Dubai’s Ambitious Infrastructure Plans

Aim to Alleviate Congestion and Fuel

Sustainable Growth Across the City.

Dubai, a global hub for trade, tourism,

and innovation, has long struggled with

traffic congestion, especially between

the city and the Northern Emirates. To

tackle this, the UAE government is implementing

major infrastructure projects and

advanced technologies. Dubai’s Roads and

Transport Authority (RTA) has launched

a multi-billion-dirham plan to expand and

enhance road networks. The initiative

includes AI-driven mobility systems to

optimise traffic flow and reduce congestion.

These efforts aim to ease daily

commuting, improve connectivity, and

support sustainable urban growth. By

integrating smart solutions, Dubai is not

only addressing current traffic challenges

but also paving the way for long-term

economic development.


Dubai’s infrastructure investment

plays a pivotal role in its economy,

driving both growth and

efficiency. Over the past decade, Dubai

has become a significant financial hub

in the Middle East, attracting substantial

investments from global companies.

The city’s infrastructure projects,

worth billions of dirhams, are designed

to improve connectivity, reduce congestion,

and stimulate long-term economic

development. By focusing on

road expansion, advanced technology

integration, and sustainability, Dubai

is not just improving daily mobility but

also ensuring sustainable growth for

years to come.

Infrastructure Investment

and Growth Strategies

Dubai’s infrastructure spending is crucial

for sustainable economic growth.

The Roads and Transport Authority

(RTA) has allocated AED 16 billion

for its Main Roads Development Plan

from 2024 to 2027, covering 22 major

projects aimed at improving the city’s

road network. These upgrades will

benefit over 6 million people, reducing

traffic congestion, and travel times, and

enhancing the commuting experience.

Dubai’s road network spans over 16,000

kilometres, with vehicle numbers growing

annually, highlighting the need for

these enhancements. The integration

of AI and automation technologies will

further optimise traffic management

and mobility.

Technological Integration in Traffic

Management

One of the cornerstones of Dubai’s

infrastructure development is the

integration of artificial intelligence

(AI) and modern technologies into its

traffic systems. The RTA’s adoption of

AI is expected to reduce travel time

by 25% by 2035, while also alleviating

traffic congestion by up to 30%. The

deployment of AI-driven solutions, such

as smart traffic lights and real-time

monitoring systems, has already begun

to revolutionise the city’s transportation

network. These technologies

are designed to identify and address

bottlenecks, optimise traffic flow, and

provide accurate data for future infrastructure

improvements. As of 2024,

over 200 smart traffic systems have been

installed in key locations, enhancing

efficiency and reducing delays.

We are leveraging

artificial intelligence

systems and modern

technologies to identify

the root causes of traffic

congestion between Dubai

and the Northern Emirates

and address it during

specific timeframes.”

H.E. Suhail Mohammed Faraj Al Mazrouei,

Minister of Energy and Infrastructure in

the UAE.

Impact on Real Estate and

Commercial Growth

Dubai’s infrastructure upgrades have

direct implications for the real estate

and commercial sectors. The expansion

of road networks, the development

of transport hubs, and improved connectivity

to neighbouring Emirates

are all contributing to the growth

of the property market. Dubai’s real

estate sector has witnessed a surge

in demand, with the market expected

to grow by 5% annually through 2027.

A key factor in this growth is the improved

accessibility to both residential

and commercial properties. The

construction of the Dubai Metro and

the expansion of roadways linking the

city to other Emirates have provided

unprecedented access to previously

underdeveloped areas, sparking new

investments in property development.

Mobility and Sustainability Goals

Sustainability is at the heart of Dubai’s

long-term infrastructure projects. The

city’s mobility strategy focuses on

reducing carbon emissions and enhancing

the overall sustainability of its

transport systems. Dubai’s Vision 2040

plan aims to make 25% of all journeys

in the city sustainable through public

transport, walking, and cycling. The

RTA’s plan includes the introduction of

electric and autonomous vehicles into

the public transport network, reducing

reliance on traditional fuel-powered

vehicles. With the UAE committing to

reducing its carbon footprint by 30%

by 2030, these infrastructure projects

are crucial in achieving the country’s

environmental goals. By adopting

smart, sustainable solutions, Dubai

aims to position itself as a leader in

green urban development.

Public-Private Partnerships

and Investment Potential

Dubai’s infrastructure development is

bolstered by strong public-private partnerships

(PPP), facilitating significant

private-sector investment. In 2023, the

government announced the launch of a

new PPP framework designed to attract

over AED 50 billion in private investments

into key infrastructure projects.

This model not only accelerates the

implementation of projects but also

spreads financial risks and rewards.

As of 2024, several large-scale projects,

including the Dubai Creek Tower and

various residential developments, have

seen significant participation from

private investors. The public-private

collaboration has been key in ensuring

that Dubai’s infrastructure growth is

both sustainable and beneficial to all

stakeholders, providing long-term value

for the city’s economy.

Potential Challenges to Overcome

Despite ambitious infrastructure projects,

challenges remain for Dubai’s

growth. Rapid urbanisation and a growing

population put pressure on transport

networks, with vehicle numbers

expected to rise by 4% annually, straining

existing infrastructure. Integrating

new technologies requires significant

investments in research, development,

and operations. Additionally, large-scale

projects often raise concerns about

the environmental impact, causing

temporary disruptions and pollution.

Balancing these challenges is essential

for Dubai’s continued success.


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May 2025


Interview

Exclusive Interview with FinanceWorld Magazine

Redefining Luxury Living

in Dubai

Neeraj Mishra

Founder & CEO of AMIS Development


Q: To begin, could you please give

us an overview of your professional

journey in the real estate sector?

We’d also love to hear about

the company, the kind of projects

you focus on and how it fits into

the broader landscape of Dubai’s

fast-evolving property market.

My journey in real estate has been

driven by a passion for architectural

excellence and a deep commitment

to transforming Dubai into one of the

world’s most modern cities. With over

15 years of experience, I founded AMIS

Development to focus on delivering luxury

and innovative real estate projects.

AMIS Development’s portfolio includes

high-profile projects such as Woodland

Residences, Woodland Terraces, and

Woodland Crest, each designed with

a keen eye on contemporary living,

integrating modern aesthetics, and

cutting-edge technology. We focus on

offering a range of luxurious, thoughtfully

crafted homes, with a strong emphasis

on the environment and creating vibrant,

community-oriented spaces.

Our approach distinguishes us in

the Dubai market by focusing on not

only luxury but also sustainability and

flexibility in design. As Dubai’s real

estate market continues to evolve with

the integration of smart technologies

and futuristic development, AMIS is

proud to be part of that transformation.

Q: Dubai’s real estate market is

projected to grow steadily in 2025,

with 5–8% annual price increases

and rental yields among the world’s

highest. What is fueling this resilience,

and is this momentum

sustainable?

The resilience of Dubai’s real estate

market is driven by its status as a

global business hub, attracting both

local and international investment. The

city’s economic diversification, major

infrastructure projects, and sustainable

initiatives ensure continued demand.

The introduction of the Golden Visa

has also bolstered investment, drawing

more international buyers. Dubai’s

safety, world-class healthcare facilities,

and unmatched connectivity via Dubai

International Airport (DXB) and the

upcoming Al Maktoum International

Airport make it an attractive place to

live, work, and invest. These factors

contribute to a thriving property market

with strong yields.

While price increases and high rental

yields are promising, the sustainability

of this momentum relies on continued

demand from international buyers,

local economic stability, and Dubai’s

adaptability to evolving trends such

as hybrid working, sustainability, and

technological integration. The focus

on affordable housing and flexible

living spaces will play a crucial role

in maintaining long-term market resilience,

ensuring the city remains a top

destination for global investment and

real estate development.

Q: You’ve spent 15 years navigating

Dubai’s real estate sector. What

key market shifts have shaped your

entrepreneurial journey?

Over the past 15 years, Dubai’s real estate

market has seen significant shifts.

One of the key changes has been the

increased demand for sustainability

and green building practices.

As environmental

concerns have risen

globally, buyers are

increasingly seeking

energy-efficient homes

and smart technologies,

which has influenced how

we approach design and

development at AMIS.”

Another shift is the rise of smart

cities and integrated communities. The

demand for homes that offer more than

just luxury, such as wellness-focused

amenities and integrated technology

has shaped our approach to creating

more holistic living experiences. The

rapid growth of emerging areas, like

Dubai South and Meydan, also highlights

the city’s expansion beyond traditional

zones like Downtown Dubai and Palm

Jumeirah, opening new opportunities

for innovative developments.

Q: From branded residences to

wellness-focused communities,

the luxury real estate narrative

is shifting. What does the “new

luxury” look like in Dubai, and

how are developers adapting to

this transformation?

The “new luxury” in Dubai is evolving

beyond just opulent finishes and prime

locations. Buyers now seek homes

that offer a deeper connection to their

well-being and the environment. Wellness-focused

communities that integrate

nature, sustainability, and technology

are at the forefront of this shift. At

AMIS, we are focused on designing

homes that not only reflect luxury but

also promote health and well-being,

through features such as green spaces,

energy-efficient technologies, and smart

home automation.

The demand for branded residences

continues to grow, but with an added

emphasis on functionality and the ability

to create personalized, flexible spaces.

As developers, we are adapting by incorporating

cutting-edge technologies,

focusing on sustainable design, and

providing lifestyle-enhancing amenities

that go beyond traditional luxury.

Q: As the city continues its rapid

expansion, emerging areas like

Dubai South, Creek Harbour, and

JVC are gaining attention. Which

upcoming neighbourhoods or development

corridors do you find

most promising, and what makes

them stand out?

Dubai is expanding beyond its traditional

real estate hubs, and emerging areas

like Dubai South, Creek Harbour ,Dubai

Islands offer exciting opportunities.

Dubai South, for example, is poised to

become a major business and residential

district due to its proximity to the

Expo 2020 site and its integration with

key infrastructure projects, including

the Al Maktoum International Airport.

This will make it a vibrant area for both

business and residential living.

Similarly, Creek Harbour offers

an attractive blend of modern living

and waterfront lifestyle, making it an

appealing location for both residents

and investors. Its growth potential is

enhanced by its connectivity to major

business and leisure areas in Dubai.

These areas are not only offering

more affordable alternatives to the

more central locations, but they are

also embracing the future of urban

living with smart technologies, green

building practices, and community-driven


Interview

designs. This shift will contribute to

the continued expansion of Dubai’s

real estate market.

Q: The off-plan segment has seen

a significant resurgence. Have

you noticed any shifts in buyer

behaviour or risk perception that

developers and brokers should be

more attuned to compared to five

years ago?

The resurgence of the off-plan segment

has been driven by a number of

factors, including favorable financing

options and attractive payment plans.

Buyers today are more focused on the

security of their investments. They

seek more transparency in terms of

project timelines, payment structures,

and the developer’s track record.

Construction-linked payment plans,

such as the ones we offer at AMIS,

are gaining popularity because they

provide buyers with more confidence

in the project’s completion.

Buyers are also becoming more

discerning about the long-term sustainability

and environmental impact

of their investments. They are placing

a premium on developments that incorporate

eco-friendly designs, smart

home technology, and wellness amenities.

Developers must therefore be

prepared to address these concerns and

offer projects that align with modern

buyer values.

Q: What are some of the biggest

challenges developers face today,

whether regulatory, financial, or

operational, as they try to keep up

with the speed and scale of Dubai’s

real estate growth?

Developers in Dubai face several challenges,

including regulatory complexities,

project delays, and financial

pressures. The rapid pace of growth

and competition for prime land can

result in tight timelines, and managing

construction costs effectively is always

a concern. Staying compliant with the

ever-evolving regulatory environment

and meeting the rising expectations

of buyers in terms of sustainability

and technological innovation requires

agility and adaptability.

Developers must also navigate the

volatility of the global economic environment,

which can affect investor

confidence and the availability of capital.

However, maintaining flexibility

and continuously innovating allows


us to overcome these challenges and

deliver projects that resonate with

today’s buyers.

Q: The AED 5 billion MoU with First

APAC Fund VCC signals strong

international confidence in AMIS.

What are the strategic implications

of this partnership, and how will it

shape AMIS’s next chapter?

The AED 5 billion MoU with First APAC

Fund VCC marks a pivotal moment in

AMIS’s growth. It provides us with the

resources to accelerate our vision of

becoming a leading player in Dubai’s

luxury real estate market. It also enables

us to expand our portfolio and

develop more innovative, sustainable

projects that cater to the evolving

demands of buyers.

The partnership strengthens our

international presence and builds

credibility with global investors, allowing

us to launch more high-profile

projects and significantly increase our

sales volumes. We are committed to

ensuring that this partnership leads to

the creation of some of Dubai’s most

iconic developments.

Q: Looking ahead to 2030, what

is your long-term vision for AMIS

Properties, and how do you see it

influencing the broader Dubai real

estate landscape?

By 2030, AMIS aims to be at the forefront

of Dubai’s sustainable urban

development, setting new standards

for luxury living, innovation, and environmental

responsibility. Our long-term

vision is to create communities that

blend modernity with nature, offering

homes that enhance the quality of life

for residents while minimizing their

environmental impact.

We envision expanding

our influence in the

luxury sector while

also diversifying into

affordable and flexible

housing solutions to cater

to a broader range of

buyers.”

As Dubai continues to evolve into

a global hub for innovation and sustainability,

AMIS will play a key role

in shaping its future, creating iconic

developments that reflect the city’s

aspirations for 2030 and beyond.

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Corporate Results

ADNOC Gas

Full Year Net Profit: AED 18.35B

ADNOC Gas achieved a record net profit

of USD 5 billion (AED 18.35 billion) in

2024, reflecting a 13% increase from

2023. The company’s adjusted revenues

rose by 7%, reaching USD 24.43 billion,

driven by a rise in LNG exports and

consistent local demand. EBITDA also

saw a significant 14% increase, reaching

USD 8.65 billion, while maintaining a

solid 35% margin. In addition to strong

financial performance, ADNOC Gas

further expanded its global reach by

signing long-term agreements across

key markets in Asia and Europe. These

strategic partnerships will ensure sustained

growth and market access. On

the domestic front, ADNOC Gas met 60%

of the UAE’s gas demand, underscoring

its pivotal role in the nation’s energy

security. The company’s commitment

to its shareholders was demonstrated

by a USD 3.41 billion dividend payout

for 2024.

Emirates NBD


Emirates NBD achieved a record net profit

of AED 27.1 billion in 2024, marking

its highest-ever annual profit. The bank’s

assets grew by 16%, reaching AED 997

billion, while loans increased by 10% to

AED 529 billion and deposits rose by 14%

to AED 667 billion. This impressive performance

was driven by strong retail and

corporate lending, alongside enhanced

digital services that improved customer

experience. The bank’s continued investment

in innovation and digitalisation has

positioned it as a leader in the region’s

banking sector. Reflecting the strong

financial results and ongoing investor

confidence, Emirates NBD proposed

a dividend of 100 fils per share for the

year. The bank remains well-positioned

to continue its growth trajectory and

deliver value to its shareholders.

FAB


First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) reported a

net profit of AED 17.1 billion for 2024,

reinforcing its position as the UAE’s

largest bank. This solid performance

was driven by robust loan growth, diversified

income streams, and effective

risk management strategies. FAB continued

to expand its regional presence

by leveraging digital innovation and

adopting customer-centric approaches

to meet evolving market demands. The

bank’s strong balance sheet reflects its

resilience and stability, allowing it to

support both individual and corporate

clients effectively. As a key partner

in the UAE’s economic development,

FAB plays an integral role in driving

financial inclusion and supporting

major infrastructure projects. Moving

forward, the bank remains committed

to enhancing its services.

Alpha Dhabi Holding


Alpha Dhabi Holding reported a full-year

net profit of AED 13.5 billion in 2024,

reflecting its successful diversified

business model. The company operates

across several sectors, including

healthcare, construction, real estate,

and industrials, with revenue growth

driven by strong performances in construction

and energy. Alpha Dhabi’s

continued acquisition strategy has

bolstered its portfolio, enabling further

expansion and strengthening its regional

footprint. The company’s focus on

strategic partnerships has also played

a key role in enhancing operational

synergies across its various sectors,

creating efficiencies and driving value.

These initiatives have positioned Alpha

Dhabi as a leading player in the UAE’s

dynamic business landscape.

Dubai Electricity and Water

Authority (DEWA)


DEWA reported a full-year 2024 net

profit of AED 7.24 billion, driven by

sustained demand for electricity and

water across Dubai. The company

serves over 1 million customers and has

made significant investments in solar

and clean energy, which contributed

to its strong financial performance.

DEWA’s efficiency in utility operations

has positioned it as a key player in

Dubai’s energy sector. The company is

at the forefront of major sustainability

projects, including the Mohammed bin

Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, which

supports Dubai’s renewable energy

goals. DEWA is also actively advancing

the city’s net-zero ambitions, reinforcing

its commitment to sustainable development.

With a focus on innovation and

environmental stewardship, DEWA

continues to lead in energy transition

efforts while meeting the growing needs

of its customer base.

International Holding

Company (IHC)


International Holding Company (IHC)

achieved a net profit of AED 25.5 billion

for the full year 2024. Revenue surged

by 54.4%, reaching AED 92.8 billion,

largely driven by strong performances

in its Real Estate and Construction, and

Marine and Dredging sectors. IHC’s total

assets expanded to AED 401.7 billion,

marking a 52% year-on-year increase.

This growth highlights the company’s

successful diversification strategy

and strategic investments, solidifying

its position as one of the UAE’s most

influential holding firms. IHC remains

focused on expanding its subsidiaries

and entering new markets to maximise

shareholder value. By continuing its

expansion and investment strategy, IHC

aims to sustain its growth trajectory

and reinforce its role as a key player

in the UAE economy.


ADNOC Drilling


ADNOC Drilling achieved its highest-ever


marking a 26% increase compared to the

previous year. The company’s revenues

grew by 32% to AED 14.7 billion, driven by

strong performance across its onshore,

offshore, and oilfield services segments.

EBITDA saw a 36% rise, reaching AED

7.41 billion, while maintaining a solid 50%

margin. ADNOC Drilling’s impressive

profitability can be attributed to its strategic

fleet expansion, digital integration,

and ongoing efficiency improvements.

These initiatives have strengthened the

company’s operational capabilities and

enhanced shareholder value. The results

reflect ADNOC Drilling’s continued

growth and commitment to maintaining

its leadership position in the energy sector

through innovation and operational

excellence.

Emaar Properties


Emaar Properties achieved a record


reflecting a 25% year-on-year growth.

The company’s total revenue surged by

33%, reaching AED 35.5 billion, largely

driven by a remarkable 72% increase

in property sales, which amounted to

approximately AED 70 billion. Emaar’s

earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation,

and amortisation (EBIT-

DA) grew to AED 19.3 billion, with

an impressive margin of 54%. These

strong financial results highlight the

company’s ability to meet rising market

demand, execute projects efficiently,

and expand its development pipeline

both within Dubai and in international

markets. Emaar’s robust performance

showcases its continued dominance in

the real estate sector, as it capitalises

on lucrative growth opportunities and

strengthens its position in the competitive

global market.

Ajman Bank

Q1’25 Net Profit: AED 134.67M

Ajman Bank reported a significant

increase in net profits for the first quarter

(Q1) of 2025, reaching AED 134.67

million, up from AED 107.42 million in

Q1-24. This growth demonstrates the

bank’s strong financial performance

and its ability to capitalise on market

opportunities. The lender also recorded

net operating income of AED 198.91

million as of 31 March 2025, which

represents a 2% annual growth from

AED 194.83 million. Basic and diluted

earnings per share (EPS) rose to AED

0.05 in Q1-25, compared to AED 0.03

in the same period last year. Furthermore,

total assets jumped to AED 24.49

billion in Q1-25, up from AED 22.85

billion at the close of December 2024.

Mustafa Al Khalfawi, CEO of Ajman

Bank, emphasised the bank’s ongoing

transformation, stating: “Ajman Bank’s

Q1-25 results reflect the strength of our

ongoing transformation and our ability

to deliver consistent, value-driven

performance.

Abu Dhabi National Energy

Company (TAQA)


Abu Dhabi National Energy Company

(TAQA) reported a net profit of AED 7.1

billion for the full year 2024, reflecting

strong operational performance in

power generation, water desalination,

and oil & gas sectors. The company’s

diversified portfolio, along with major

domestic and international projects,

has ensured stable returns. TAQA

remains committed to expanding its

investments in low-carbon energy

sources and enhancing infrastructure,

aligning with the UAE’s sustainability

goals. This strategy not only supports

the country’s environmental targets

but also strengthens TAQA’s role in

ensuring energy security across the

region. With a focus on sustainable

growth, TAQA continues to lead in

the transition towards cleaner energy

while maintaining its robust presence

in traditional energy markets.

e&


e& reported a net profit of AED 10.8

billion for 2024, marking a 4.3% increase

from the previous year. Revenues

reached AED 59.2 billion, reflecting a

10.1% growth, driven by strong performance

across telecom, enterprise, and

fintech sectors. The company’s global

subscriber base expanded to 189.3

million across 38 countries, further

enhancing its market presence. Strategic

acquisitions in Europe and Asia

were key drivers of this expansion,

positioning e& for continued growth.

The company also declared an 83 fils

per share dividend as part of its new

three-year progressive payout policy,

reinforcing its commitment to shareholders.

Additionally, e&’s brand value

surpassed USD 20 billion, making it the

fastest-growing telecom brand globally

in 2024, further solidifying its position

as a global telecom leader.

RAKBANK

Q1’25 Net Profit: AED 704.49M

The National Bank of Ras Al Khaimah

(RAKBANK) achieved net profits after

tax valued at AED 704.49 million in the

first quarter (Q1) of 2025, an annual

rise of 22.70% from AED 574.19 million.

Interest income hiked to AED 1.11

billion as of 31 March 2025 from AED

1.09 billion in Q1-24, according to the

financial results. Basic and diluted

earnings per share (EPS) increased to

AED 0.35 in the first three months (3M)

of 2025 from AED 0.29 a year earlier.

Total Assets have crossed AED 90

billion for the first time in the bank’s

history, while the customer deposits

jumped by 18.20% year-on-year (YoY)

to AED 61 billion in Q1-25. RAKBANK

recorded a 16.40% growth in net profit

after tax to AED 2.07 billion at the end

of December 2024, compared to AED

1.78 billion in 2023.


Opinion

Source: Supplied

Jan Pilbauer, Chief Executive Officer at Al Etihad Payments

Architecting the Future

of Finance: Al Etihad

Payments enabling UAE’s

Instant Economy

With a mission to modernise national payments,

Al Etihad Payments is laying the foundation for a

resilient and responsive digital economy.

In today’s fast-paced world, most people

rarely think about payments - until

something goes wrong. Yet behind

every salary transfer, online purchase,

ATM withdrawal, or bill payment lies an

intricate system designed to move money

seamlessly and securely in real time.

It encompasses technology as well as a

set of rules guiding the various players.

This system, though largely invisible

to the public, is as vital to modern life

as roads, ports, or electricity grids. For

years, the infrastructure that powered

payments was sometimes overlooked as

critical national infrastructure. But today,

forward-thinking nations recognize that a

modern, inclusive, and resilient payments

ecosystem is foundational to economic

growth, innovation, and national com-


petitiveness.

It was this vision that inspired the creation

of Al Etihad Payments. Established

in 2023 as a subsidiary of the Central

Bank of the UAE, Al Etihad Payments

holds a national mandate to build and

operate the country’s financial market

infrastructure. Our purpose is not commercial,

it is transformational. We exist

to serve the public good: we enable UAE’s

financial institutions to drive financial

inclusion, accelerate the digital economy,

and strengthen the UAE’s position

on the global stage through cutting-edge

innovation.

As the UAE steps into its next chapter

of digital advancement, one of our most

transformative initiatives is already reshaping

how the country moves money: Aani.

Aani: Setting the New Standard for

Instant, Inclusive Value Exchange

Launched in 2023, Aani is far more than

an instant payment platform; it signifies a

fundamental shift towards a future where

exchanging value is as intuitive, immediate,

and effortless as sending a digital

message, but with the security you expect

when dealing with your money.

At its core, Aani enables anyone in the

UAE to transfer money instantly - within

seconds - regardless of the time or day.

But speed is just the beginning. Aani was

built on four foundational principles: convenience,

security, inclusivity, and trust.

We are moving beyond the friction of

outdated processes. The era of IBANs and

delays is yielding to intuitive transfers

initiated simply by knowing the recipient’s

mobile number, email, or the trusted

Emirates ID. While we respect existing

habits by retaining traditional methods,

our focus is clear: expand choice and

enhance the user experience.

Critically, Aani was conceived as a platform

designed for everyone. It bridges

the gaps, connecting the banked, underbanked,

and unbanked, integrating traditional

bank accounts with digital wallets,

salary cards, and exchange houses. This

inherent inclusivity, woven into its very

fabric, distinguishes Aani.

Realizing this vision demanded unprecedented

collaboration. In over a year, we

have successfully interlinked over 61 licensed

financial institutions within the

Aani ecosystem. This was not achieved

through mandate alone, but through genuine

partnership. As Al Etihad Payments

operates behind the scenes, collaboration

is paramount. We don’t build for the industry;

we build with the industry. That’s

the essence of our “building together”

philosophy.

Aani extends beyond simple transfers,

empowering users with features for modern

life: requesting payments, splitting

bills, and enabling QR code payments.

For merchants, this opens a gateway to

digital commerce. For consumers, it makes

payments effortless.

Over 1.75 million individuals are now

enrolled on Aani, and nearly 100,000 merchants

can accept Aani payments. Daily

transaction volumes are surging, exhibiting

remarkable month-over-month growth

between 20–30%. Yet, the true elegance

lies in its integration. Aani isn’t only a

separate App users must seek out; it’s a

capability embedded within the familiar

banking apps they already trust, available

precisely when and where it’s needed.

Shaping a ‘Less-Cash’ Future by Empowering

Choice

Our objective is not to eliminate cash.

Instead, we champion a ‘less-cash’ society

– one where digital alternatives

are so compelling, secure, inclusive,

and trustworthy that they become the

natural, preferred choice. We believe in

the power of choice and are committed

to ensuring no one is excluded from the

digital economy simply due to a lack of

accessible, modern payment options.

Creating a national payments infrastructure

is like building the foundation

for a country’s digital money system -

comparable to constructing the essential

framework of power lines or transportation

networks. It begins with deploying

a robust core system that interconnects

banks, payment service providers, and

other financial entities. From there,

we define the operational protocols:

the speed at which money moves, the

mechanisms that ensure security, and the

criteria for access. Our vision is to create

a future-proof foundation - one capable

of supporting emerging technologies -

without requiring reinvention each time

innovation advances.

At Al Etihad Payments, we are privileged

to lead this transformation. We are

not merely constructing payment systems;

we are architecting the essential infrastructure

for the UAE’s vibrant digital

future. We are building tomorrow, today.


Audio‐Technica’s

Hotaru Turntable

Redefines Analogue

Playback with

Floating Design

Audio‐Technica has proudly introduced the Hotaru,

a limited‐edition, avant‐garde turntable that blends

cutting‐edge analogue performance with immersive

aesthetics. Revealed at Milan Design Week 2025 (April

6–13), the Hotaru features a levitating platter and synchronised

light display designed to minimise vibration

and enhance the listening experience. Pre‐orders opened

on Audio‐Technica’s website until May 30, 2025, and

shipment is scheduled to start in October 2025.

Key Specs: High‐Fidelity Meets Levitation

Price:

US$ $9,999, 37,000 AED - flagship positioning

for serious collectors

Speakers:

Dual 63.5 mm full‐range drivers and a pair

of tweeters built‐in

Speeds:

Connectivity:

33 1/3 RPM & 45 RPM belt‐drive system RCA line‐out & dedicated subwoofer output

for external expansion


Designed for Audiophiles

& Design Enthusiasts

The Hotaru caters to vinyl purists and interior designers

alike. Every component is meticulously machined to

deliver resonant audio with minimal distortion and

maximum fidelity. Its levitating upper section not

only reduces unwanted resonance but also serves as

a futuristic centrepiece in any listening space. Aptly

named after the Japanese word for “firefly”.

Global Debut &

Availability

Event: Milan Design Week 2025 (Apr 6-13)

UAE Availability: Expected at select premium

audio retailers in late 2025

Pros

Performance Highlights

Vibration Isolation - Magnetic levitation delivers

unparalleled playback precision

Sound‐Reactive Lighting - Transforms listening

sessions into immersive experiences

Limited Units - Competition likely for reservations

Flawless vibration suppression and audio

clarity

Unique floating design doubles as modern

décor

Custom lighting modes enhance the atmosphere

Integrated speaker system for standalone

use

Exclusive numbered edition

Cons

Heavy and costly to transport

Ultra‐premium price may exceed many

budgets

Strictly analogue, no digital streaming or

video playback

No customisation or colour variants beyond

translucent acrylic

Final Thoughts

The Audio‐Technica Hotaru redefines analogue playback by merging high‐precision engineering with captivating visual

flair. Its floating platter and sound-synchronised lighting elevate the vinyl ritual into a multisensory journey. While the

steep price and limited availability place it firmly in the luxury segment, the Hotaru stands as a statement piece for

dedicated audiophiles and design aficionados. Embrace the future of analogue listening, where gravity is optional and

ambience is integral.


Digital Assets


Redefining ownership with decentralised and transparent Web3 solutions.

Ownership of

Digital and

Physical Assets in

the Web3 Era

Redefining Ownership through

Decentralised, Transparent, and

Innovative Web3 Solutions.

Web3 ownership is rewriting the rules

of asset management, offering a bold,

decentralised approach to owning digital

and physical assets. By merging blockchain

technology, tokenisation, and smart

contracts, Web3 empowers individuals

and businesses to securely prove, transfer,

and manage assets without the need for

traditional intermediaries. This groundbreaking

shift democratises ownership,

making high-value assets like real estate

and fine art accessible through fractional

ownership. Meanwhile, smart contracts

ensure creators earn royalties seamlessly

from future sales, while blockchain’s

transparency boosts security and trust.

As Web3 continues to gain traction, it

promises to deliver a future where ownership

is remarkably efficient and dynamic.


Dubai’s infrastructure investment

plays a pivotal role in its economy,

driving both growth and

efficiency. Over the past decade, Dubai

has become a significant financial hub

in the Middle East, attracting substantial

investments from global companies.

The city’s infrastructure projects,

worth billions of dirhams, are designed

to improve connectivity, reduce congestion,

and stimulate long-term economic

development. By focusing on

road expansion, advanced technology

integration, and sustainability, Dubai

is not just improving daily mobility but

also ensuring sustainable growth for

years to come.

Infrastructure Investment

and Growth Strategies

Dubai’s infrastructure spending is crucial

for sustainable economic growth.

The Roads and Transport Authority

(RTA) has allocated AED 16 billion

for its Main Roads Development Plan

from 2024 to 2027, covering 22 major

projects aimed at improving the city’s

road network. These upgrades will

benefit over 6 million people, reducing

traffic congestion, and travel times, and

enhancing the commuting experience.

Dubai’s road network spans over 16,000

kilometres, with vehicle numbers growing

annually, highlighting the need for

these enhancements. The integration

of AI and automation technologies will

further optimise traffic management

and mobility.

Technological Integration in Traffic

Management

One of the cornerstones of Dubai’s

infrastructure development is the

integration of artificial intelligence

(AI) and modern technologies into its

traffic systems. The RTA’s adoption of

AI is expected to reduce travel time

by 25% by 2035, while also alleviating

traffic congestion by up to 30%. The

deployment of AI-driven solutions, such

as smart traffic lights and real-time

monitoring systems, has already begun

to revolutionise the city’s transportation

network. These technologies

are designed to identify and address

bottlenecks, optimise traffic flow, and

provide accurate data for future infrastructure

improvements. As of 2024,

over 200 smart traffic systems have been

installed in key locations, enhancing

efficiency and reducing delays.

Impact on Real Estate and

Commercial Growth

Dubai’s infrastructure upgrades have

direct implications for the real estate

and commercial sectors. The expansion

of road networks, the development

of transport hubs, and improved connectivity

to neighbouring Emirates

are all contributing to the growth

of the property market. Dubai’s real

estate sector has witnessed a surge

in demand, with the market expected

to grow by 5% annually through 2027.

A key factor in this growth is the improved

accessibility to both residential

and commercial properties. The

construction of the Dubai Metro and

the expansion of roadways linking the

city to other Emirates have provided

unprecedented access to previously

underdeveloped areas, sparking new

investments in property development.

Mobility and Sustainability Goals

Sustainability is at the heart of Dubai’s

long-term infrastructure projects. The

city’s mobility strategy focuses on

reducing carbon emissions and enhancing

the overall sustainability of its

transport systems. Dubai’s Vision 2040

plan aims to make 25% of all journeys

in the city sustainable through public

transport, walking, and cycling. The

RTA’s plan includes the introduction of

electric and autonomous vehicles into

the public transport network, reducing

reliance on traditional fuel-powered

vehicles. With the UAE committing to

reducing its carbon footprint by 30%

by 2030, these infrastructure projects

are crucial in achieving the country’s

environmental goals. By adopting

smart, sustainable solutions, Dubai

aims to position itself as a leader in

green urban development.

Public-Private Partnerships

and Investment Potential

Dubai’s infrastructure development is

bolstered by strong public-private partnerships

(PPP), facilitating significant

private-sector investment. In 2023, the

government announced the launch of a

new PPP framework designed to attract

over AED 50 billion in private investments

into key infrastructure projects.

This model not only accelerates the

implementation of projects but also

spreads financial risks and rewards.

As of 2024, several large-scale projects,

including the Dubai Creek Tower and

By embracing emerging

technologies, we aim to

set a global benchmark

for innovation, delivering

transformative solutions

that benefit both our

citizens and the wider

community.”

H.E. Eng. Sharif Al Olama,

Undersecretary for Energy and Petroleum

Affairs, Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure

(MoEI)

various residential developments, have

seen significant participation from

private investors. The public-private

collaboration has been key in ensuring

that Dubai’s infrastructure growth is

both sustainable and beneficial to all

stakeholders, providing long-term value

for the city’s economy.

Potential Challenges to Overcome

Despite ambitious infrastructure projects,

challenges remain for Dubai’s

growth. Rapid urbanisation and a

growing population put pressure on

transport networks, with vehicle numbers

expected to rise by 4% annually,

straining existing infrastructure. Integrating

new technologies requires

significant investments in research,

development, and operations. Additionally,

large-scale projects often raise

concerns about the environmental

impact, causing temporary disruptions

and pollution.


FinTech News

Dubai Fintech Summit 2025 Set for May

The Dubai Fintech Summit 2025

will return on May 6–7, bringing

together more than 8,000 industry

leaders, innovators, and investors

from around the world. Organised by

Dubai International Financial Centre

(DIFC), the event will feature over 300

speakers and focus on the future of finance,

digital payments, AI, blockchain,

and regulations. Key topics include

sustainable finance, digital banking,

and investment strategies for fintechs.

The summit aims to position Dubai

as a global fintech hub by facilitating

cross-border collaboration and policy

dialogue. With the UAE’s continued

investment in digital transformation,

the summit will provide a platform for

startups, regulators, and established

firms to forge new partnerships and

explore emerging opportunities in the

global financial ecosystem.

ADGM launches Virtual Property Service

Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)

has introduced a virtual property

transaction service, enabling

end-to-end digital real estate deals

within its jurisdiction. The new platform

allows users to verify documents, sign

contracts, and complete transactions

remotely, ensuring faster and more

secure property exchanges. This marks

a step forward in digital transformation

for the real estate sector, offering

convenience and transparency for

buyers, sellers, and brokers. ADGM

aims to attract more global investors

and residents by enhancing the user

experience through technology. The

initiative supports Abu Dhabi’s broader

goal of becoming a digitally enabled

economic hub, and increasing confidence

in property transactions through

blockchain-powered systems.

UAE Retail Investors Embrace Fintech Tools

A

new eToro survey reveals that

79% of UAE retail investors

now use fintech platforms for

managing investments, marking a significant

rise in digital finance adoption.

The survey highlights increasing trust

in mobile trading apps, robo-advisors,

and cryptocurrency platforms. Young

investors, especially Gen Z and millennials,

are driving the shift with a

preference for self-directed, real-time

financial management. Respondents

cited accessibility, cost-effectiveness,

and educational tools as key reasons for

fintech adoption. eToro noted that the

UAE’s strong regulatory framework and

digital infrastructure are encouraging

innovation in investment platforms.

The findings reflect broader trends

in the region’s financial ecosystem,

as traditional banking continues to

evolve alongside fintech solutions,

empowering individuals with more

control over their portfolios.

PayPal, TerraPay Team

Up on Payments

Global payments leader PayPal has

announced a partnership with

TerraPay to expand international

money transfer capabilities across new

markets. The collaboration aims to improve

cross-border payment efficiency,

affordability, and financial inclusion,

particularly in emerging economies. By

leveraging TerraPay’s extensive global

payment network and PayPal’s user base,

the alliance will allow users to send and

receive money faster, securely, and with

reduced transaction costs. This move aligns

with the growing demand for seamless

digital financial services and strengthens

both firms’ positions in the global fintech

landscape. The partnership is expected to

accelerate financial access in underserved

regions while enhancing remittance flows

between countries.


UAE Tech Investors Turn

Risk-Averse

UAE-based tech investors are

becoming more cautious amid

global economic uncertainties,

according to a recent report by AGBI.

Rising interest rates, geopolitical

tensions, and market volatility have

prompted many to prioritise secure,

lower-risk ventures over high-growth

but uncertain startups. Investors are

focusing on profitability, long-term value,

and sustainable growth, particularly

in sectors like cybersecurity, fintech,

and enterprise software. Family offices

and institutional funds are shifting

strategies, seeking safer investments

while still supporting innovation. Despite

the risk aversion, confidence in

the UAE’s tech sector remains strong,

fuelled by government support, strong

infrastructure, and strategic initiatives.

Experts believe this shift will bring

more disciplined capital allocation

and resilient business models in the

long term. This marks a new phase

of complementary pillars of growth.

UAE’s Maseera Acquires Egypt’s Adva Fintech

Maseera, a UAE-based fintech

company, has acquired Egyptian

digital financial services platform

Adva in a strategic move to expand its

regional footprint. The acquisition will

enhance Maseera’s capabilities in offering

consumer finance, buy-now-pay-later

services, and bill payment solutions.

Adva’s strong presence in Egypt and

its customer-centric fintech model

align with Maseera’s goal of delivering

accessible and innovative financial

solutions across the MENA region.

This deal marks an important step in

cross-border fintech consolidation and

reflects growing investor confidence in

Egypt’s digital economy. Maseera plans

to leverage Adva’s infrastructure and

talent to scale operations and introduce

new services, strengthening the

UAE’s influence in the region’s rapidly

evolving fintech sector.

Dubai Among Top 5 Global Fintech Cities

Dubai has emerged as one of the

world’s top five fintech cities,

as per a new global index, and

has climbed to 11th place in the Global

Financial Centres Index (GFCI). This

rise highlights the city’s strategic focus

on digital transformation, progressive

regulations, and a thriving fintech startup

environment. The Dubai International

Financial Centre (DIFC) has been pivotal

in this progress by introducing innovative

licensing frameworks, supporting

accelerator programmes, and boosting

venture capital funding. These efforts

have attracted both major financial

institutions and disruptive fintech

startups. The report reflects Dubai’s

commitment to becoming a leading

hub for digital finance. With the UAE’s

national digital economy goals gaining

momentum, Dubai’s influence in the

global financial and fintech landscape

is expected to grow even stronger in

the years ahead.

UAE Tech Funding Reaches USD 872M in 2024

In 2024, the UAE’s tech sector secured

USD 872 million in funding,

largely fuelled by late-stage investments,

as reported by Tech in Asia.

This increase underscores a maturing

ecosystem, where investors are prioritising

scalable, revenue-driven startups

in sectors such as fintech, healthtech,

and logistics. While early-stage funding

witnessed a slowdown, major Series B

and C rounds took the spotlight. Abu

Dhabi and Dubai continue to lead the

nation’s tech growth, bolstered by

strong government initiatives, active

incubator networks, and targeted

capital deployment. The report also

highlights a shift in investor priorities

towards profitability and resilience,

reflecting caution in an uncertain

global environment. With ongoing innovation

and a supportive regulatory

framework, the UAE is well-positioned

to retain its status as the region’s

top destination for high-value tech

investments.

Presight and MBZUAI

to Back AI Startups

Presight, a G42 company, has

partnered with Mohamed bin

Zayed University of Artificial

Intelligence (MBZUAI) to support AI

startups through funding, mentorship,

and commercialisation. This initiative

aims to empower early-stage companies

developing advanced AI solutions

in healthcare, energy, public safety,

and finance. By combining Presight’s

data analytics expertise and MBZUAI’s

research capabilities, the programme

will help startups bring innovations to

market faster and scale across the region.

The collaboration is expected to

boost the UAE’s AI ecosystem, aligning

with national strategies for technological

advancement and digital economy

growth. The joint initiative will also

host accelerator programmes, pitch

competitions, and networking opportunities

to connect entrepreneurs with

industry leaders and investors. As AI

adoption accelerates across sectors,

such efforts will ensure the UAE

remains at the forefront of emerging

technologies. This partnership signals

a long-term commitment.


Reak Estate


Rethinking the UAE real estate with smart, sustainable, and tech-driven future solutions.

Rethinking

Real Estate: A

Blueprint for the

Future

Rethinking Real Estate in the UAE with

Innovative Solutions for a Sustainable

and Smart Future Ahead.

The UAE’s real estate sector is undergoing

a significant transformation, driven

by a blend of technological innovation,

sustainability, and smart city initiatives.

As the country moves towards its Vision

2030, the focus is shifting from traditional

developments to futuristic, eco-friendly,

and technology-driven solutions. With

the rise of smart cities, energy-efficient

buildings, and the integration of Artificial

Intelligence (AI), the UAE is reimagining

how real estate can contribute to a more

sustainable, connected, and efficient future.

This blueprint for the future not

only aligns with global sustainability

goals but also positions the UAE as a

leader in advanced real estate solutions,

ensuring a more resilient and innovative

built environment.


The UAE’s real estate sector is

experiencing a dramatic transformation,

with technological

innovation and sustainability at its

core. With government initiatives such

as UAE Vision 2030, the country is positioning

itself as a leader in advanced

real estate development. The introduction

of smart cities, eco-friendly construction,

and technologies like Artificial

Intelligence (AI) and the Internet

of Things (IoT) are driving this shift.

Dubai, in particular, is at the forefront,

integrating these technologies to create

energy-efficient buildings, smart infrastructure,

and interconnected urban

spaces, which is setting new standards

for urban development globally.

Market Growth and

Investment Opportunities

The UAE real estate market has witnessed

impressive growth, particularly

in luxury and commercial properties.

According to a PwC report, the UAE

real estate market was valued at USD

7.9 billion in 2021, with a forecasted

compound annual growth rate (CA-

GR) of 4.5% from 2022 to 2027. This

growth reflects rising demand for

technologically advanced properties,

both residential and commercial. The

government’s investor-friendly policies,

including tax incentives and foreign

ownership regulations, have further

propelled the sector. In 2022, Dubai

saw a 44.7% increase in real estate

investments compared to the previous

year, driven by Expo 2020 and a surge in

high-net-worth individuals purchasing

luxury properties.

Smart Cities and Sustainable

Development

The UAE’s commitment to sustainability

is demonstrated by smart cities

like Masdar City in Abu Dhabi, a

zero-carbon development powered by

renewable energy. These cities utilise

AI and IoT to optimise energy use,

waste management, and traffic flow,

aligning with the UAE’s broader goal to

reduce its carbon footprint. Alongside

these projects, sustainable building

practices are gaining momentum. The

demand for green-certified buildings,

such as those with LEED (Leadership

in Energy and Environmental Design)

certification, is on the rise. Developers

are incorporating energy-efficient

technologies like smart grids and green

HVAC systems to minimise energy

consumption. As global development

shifts towards sustainability, the UAE

is leading the way, creating a real estate

environment that balances innovation

with environmental responsibility.

Tech Innovations Driving Real

Estate Development

Technological innovations are reshaping

the UAE’s real estate market. AI

and machine learning are being used to

analyse market trends, improve project

forecasting, and make more informed

investment decisions. Real-time data

helps developers streamline operations,

cut costs, and optimise building efficiency,

contributing to faster project

delivery times and more accurate financial

projections. Virtual and augmented

reality (VR and AR) technologies are

also gaining traction in the sector. These

innovations allow potential buyers and

investors to virtually tour properties,

saving time and resources, especially

for international clients. Virtual tours

are increasingly becoming a standard

feature in real estate sales, as they

provide a realistic experience without

the need for physical visits. This shift

is particularly beneficial in the UAE,

where foreign investors constitute a

significant portion of the market.

Investment and Foreign Interest

The UAE’s real estate market remains

an attractive destination for international

investors. According to Knight

Frank’s 2022 Wealth Report, Dubai is

among the top global destinations for

high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs),

with luxury property sales seeing a

notable uptick. In 2022, the value of

prime residential sales in Dubai rose

by 44%, as demand from global buyers,

particularly from Europe, Asia, and

the Americas, continued to increase.

Foreign investors are further incentivised

by government initiatives like

the Golden Visa programme, which

grants long-term residency to foreign

nationals who invest in the country.

These policies encourage sustained foreign

investment in the UAE’s property

market, supporting both the residential

and commercial sectors. In addition to

these incentives, the strong economic

performance and political stability of

the UAE make it a reliable and attractive

destination for international real

estate investments.

The UAE has pioneered

a visionary approach to

developing a dynamic and

competitive economic

legislative framework

based on global best

practices.”

H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, the UAE’s

Minister of Economy

Challenges and the Path Ahead

Despite its successes, the UAE’s real

estate market faces challenges. One

of the key concerns is affordability,

particularly for middle-income

households. As the demand for luxury

properties continues to grow, developers

must find ways to cater to the

broader population by offering more

affordable housing solutions. This will

require innovative approaches to urban

planning, financing, and construction.

Furthermore, as the integration of AI,

IoT, and other digital technologies

becomes more pervasive, concerns

around data privacy and cybersecurity

are rising. Ensuring the safety of sensitive

data in smart cities and connected

homes will require robust regulatory

frameworks and security measures to

protect users’ personal information.

With continued government support

and private-sector innovation, the UAE

is well on its way to becoming a global

leader in sustainable and smart real

estate development.


Real Estate News

Dubai Boosts Real Estate Tokenisation with DLD-VARA Deal

Dubai has taken a significant

leap forward in real estate innovation

by signing a strategic

agreement between the Dubai Land

Department (DLD) and the Virtual

Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA).

This collaboration supports the pilot

phase of the “Real Estate Tokenisation”

initiative, under the broader “REES Real

Estate Innovation Initiative.” It aligns

with the UAE’s goal to position Dubai

as a global hub for investment and

innovation. The initiative also seeks to

help grow the real estate sector’s GDP

contribution to AED 1 trillion ($272

billion) by 2033. Signed in the presence

of key figures, including Marwan bin

Ghalita, Director General of DLD, and

Helal Al Marri, Director General of the

Department of Economy and Tourism,

the agreement signifies a bold move

towards creating a digitally advanced

and inclusive property market.

Abu Dhabi Launches Virtual Real Estate

Transaction System

Dubai Property Sales Hit

USD 39B in Q1 2025

Dubai’s real estate sector posted

record-breaking results in Q1

2025, achieving 45,474 transactions

worth AED142.7 billion (USD

39B), according to Property Finder’s

latest report. The ready property market

led the surge with 20,034 deals

totalling AED87.5 billion, marking

a 21% increase in volume and a 34%

rise in value year-on-year. Off-plan

sales remained robust, accounting for

56% of all deals. Factors driving this

growth include investor confidence,

rising rental costs pushing ownership

demand, and favourable global currency

shifts. In Abu Dhabi, the focus was on

high-value ready properties, with a 75%

increase in transaction value. Property

Finder’s Chief Revenue Officer, Cherif

Sleiman, cited initiatives such as the

Dubai Real Estate Alliance and new

regulatory partnerships as enhancing

market inclusivity and intelligence,

further fuelling demand from both

domestic and international buyers.

Dubai’s real estate market reached

a historic milestone in Q1 2025,

recording AED142.7 billion

(USD 39B) in property sales across

45,474 transactions—a 30% value and

22% volume increase year-on-year, according

to Property Finder. The ready

property segment led the surge with

20,034 transactions totalling AED87.5

billion. Off-plan sales also showed

robust performance, making up 56% of

total transactions. Experts attribute the

growth to strong investor confidence,

favourable global conditions, and rising

rental prices prompting a shift to

homeownership. Strategic initiatives

such as the Dubai Real Estate Alliance

and the Dubai Land Department’s

partnership with VARA have further

enhanced market transparency.

Dubai Land Department Partners with REACH to Drive PropTech Innovation

The Dubai Land Department

(DLD) has formed a strategic

alliance with REACH, a prominent

U.S.-based proptech investment

fund, to accelerate innovation in the

Middle East’s real estate sector. This

collaboration aims to attract emerging

proptech startups to Dubai, providing

them with mentorship, funding, and

access to a global network of industry

experts. As part of the initiative, DLD

will support these startups by offering

regulatory guidance, market data, and

opportunities to pilot their technologies

within the emirate. The partnership

also includes plans to establish

REACH’s regional office in Dubai

and to host PropTech Connect 2026, a

premier global real estate technology

conference. This move aligns with

the Dubai Real Estate Strategy 2033,

reinforcing the city’s commitment to

fostering a dynamic, innovative, and

sustainable real estate environment.


UAE Villa Market

Maintains Strong

Momentum into 2025

The UAE’s villa market continues

its robust growth trajectory into

2025, building on a remarkable

71% surge in 2024. In January 2025

alone, villa and townhouse transactions

increased by 14% month-onmonth,

reflecting sustained demand

for spacious, high-end properties. This

surge is driven by a growing influx of

Western investors, particularly from

the UK, Europe, and North America,

with British buyers leading the market

in 2024. The appeal of Dubai’s luxury

villa communities, combined with

strategic government initiatives and

a favourable investment climate, has

solidified the emirate’s status as a global

real estate hotspot. As the market shows

no signs of slowing down, analysts

anticipate continued growth in the

villa segment, underpinned by strong

investor confidence and the ongoing

development of premium residential

projects across the UAE.

Ardee Ventures into the

UAE with Landmark RAK

Development

Ardee, a prominent Indian real

estate developer, has ventured

into the UAE market with a

major mixed-use development in Ras

Al Khaimah (RAK). This strategic expansion

aims to meet the rising demand

for luxury residential and commercial

spaces in the UAE. The development

is set to transform RAK’s real estate

landscape, attracting investors and

residents interested in high-quality

living and business opportunities.

Ardee’s entry aligns with the UAE’s

efforts to diversify its economy and

strengthen its position as a leading

global real estate hub. The project is

expected to play a significant role in

driving the region’s economic growth

by providing modern infrastructure

and top-tier amenities designed to meet

the evolving demands of the market.

The initiative reflects the United Arab

Emirates commitment to fostering

innovative, sustainable developments

across the nation.

Azizi Sells 75% of Units at JAFZA Residential Tower

Azizi Developments has achieved

a significant milestone by selling

75% of the units at Azizi Arian,

its newly launched residential tower

in Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA). As

one of the few freehold residential

properties in the area, the project

offers investors the opportunity to

own a home in the heart of one of

the world’s largest free zones and the

region’s biggest port, with seamless

access to key destinations in the city.

The development features a range of

studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom

apartments that blend contemporary

exteriors with modern interiors tailored

to today’s discerning homeowners.

This achievement reflects the growing

demand for quality residential options

in Dubai’s strategic business hubs.

Azizi Arian is poised to contribute to

the area’s urban landscape and attract

both investors and residents seeking

a vibrant community.

Danube Properties Unveils ‘Sparklz by Danube’ at

IPS 2025

At the International Property

Show (IPS) 2025, Danube

Properties unveiled Sparklz

by Danube, a new residential project

located in Dubai’s Al Furjan district.

This innovative development, spanning

15 floors, introduces modern,

affordable living with more than 30

luxury amenities. Designed to offer

convenience and tranquillity, Sparklz

features prime connectivity, with easy

access to the metro station and major

roads connecting Dubai’s key areas.

The project presents various residential

units, including spacious one- and

two-bedroom apartments, and offers

flexible payment options, such as a 1%

monthly instalment plan, appealing to

both investors and residents. Danube’s

commitment to innovation in real estate

is evident in the project’s smart

features, ensuring a high-quality living

experience.

Dubai Real Estate Adopts UK-Style Transparency

Dubai’s property sector is undergoing

a major transformation

by embracing a UK-style, data-driven

framework that prioritises

transparency and consumer trust.

Inspired by the UK’s mature market,

where over 90% of property searches

begin online, the Dubai Land Department

has begun publishing granular

transaction data to increase market

clarity. Tools like DXBinteract, developed

by fäm Properties, are central

to this shift, allowing stakeholders

to analyse verified trends rather than

relying on speculation. This mirrors

the UK’s approach of providing open

government data and mandating critical

listing information. Additionally,

Dubai is aligning with sustainability

goals seen in the UK, where green-certified

buildings command premium

rents. With rising investor interest in

ESG compliance, Dubai is reinforcing

its position as a forward-thinking,

globally competitive real estate market

where decisions are anchored in

verified intelligence and regulatory

maturity.


Finance

FINANCE BOOKS TO READ:

4

Top Picks for 2025

The Psychology of Money

by Morgan Housel

Why it matters:

Most financial decisions aren’t made in Excel, they’re made

in your head.Morgan Housel brings behavioral economics to

life, breaking down how people actually think about money.

Through timeless stories and real-world examples, he illustrates

how emotion, bias, and ego can silently sabotage even

the smartest investors.

What you’ll discover:

• Why being reasonable often beats being rational

• How wealth is more about discipline than intelligence

• The unseen power of compounding—not just financially,

but in habits

• Why no amount of success will protect you from bad decisions

if you lack humility

Spending money to

show people how

much money you

have is the fastest

way to have less

money.”

Best for:

Investors, advisors, entrepreneurs or anyone who wants a

healthier, wiser relationship with money.

Rich Dad Poor Dad by

Robert Kiyosaki

The single most

powerful asset

we all have is our

mind. If it is trained

well, it can create

enormous wealth.”

Best for:

Young professionals, first-time investors, and parents raising

financially literate kids.

Why it matters:

Traditional education teaches you how to earn but not how

to grow, protect, or multiply money. Kiyosaki’s bestselling

book contrasts two perspectives on wealth his “rich” and

“poor” dads to rewire the way you view assets, debt, and

financial freedom. It’s a mindset-shifting manual for building

real wealth outside the salary cycle.


• The difference between working for money vs. making

money work for you

• How to spot assets that generate passive income

• Why financial independence isn’t about income, it’s about

ownership

• How education systems fail to teach financial literacy


The Millionaire Fastlane

by MJ DeMarco

Why it matters:

Wealth doesn’t have to take a lifetime.MJ DeMarco’s Fastlane

philosophy rejects the “save and retire at 65” approach. He

presents a controversial but deeply actionable framework

for accelerating wealth through entrepreneurship, scale, and

leverage. It’s part manifesto, part roadmap for those who

want financial independence young.


• The three financial paths: Sidewalk, Slowlane, and Fastlane

• Why time is your most precious asset, and how to stop

trading it for money

• How to create businesses that scale beyond your physical

presence

• The difference between being rich and feeling rich

The problem is not

the problem. The

problem is how

you think about the

problem.”

Best for:

Entrepreneurs, creators, founders, or anyone feeling disillusioned

by the “9-to-5 until retirement” lifestyle.

Principles: Life and Work

by Ray Dalio

Truth - more

precisely,

an accurate

understanding

of reality is the

essential foundation

for any good

outcome.”

Best for:

Executives, investors, startup founders, and high-performance

teams.

Why it matters:

To lead well, invest smart, and make sound decisions you

need a personal operating system.Ray Dalio, founder of

Bridgewater Associates (one of the most successful hedge

funds in history), shares the core principles behind his life’s

success. This book distills decades of experience into tools

for clear thinking, effective leadership, and structured problem-solving.


• A playbook for decision-making under pressure

• How to create a radically transparent, meritocratic work

culture

• The concept of “believability-weighted” decision making

• Principles you can personalize, test, and evolve


Technology


The UAE embraces RegTech to enhance compliance and drive innovation.

RegTech in the UAE:

Growing Significance

in Compliance and

Financial Security

The UAE embraces RegTech to

strengthen compliance, boost financial

security, and drive innovation.

The RegTech market in the UAE is experiencing

substantial growth, driven

by rising demand from financial institutions,

healthcare providers, and various

other sectors facing stringent regulatory

requirements. With the UAE’s continuous

efforts to enhance its regulatory framework,

organisations are increasingly

adopting RegTech solutions to improve

compliance management, risk assessment,

and fraud prevention. Cutting-edge technologies

like artificial intelligence, blockchain,

and machine learning are playing

a vital role in transforming compliance

processes, making them more efficient

and accurate. Projections indicate that the

RegTech market in the UAE will grow at

a compound annual growth rate (CAGR)

of 18.7% from 2024 to 2029.


The UAE is rapidly establishing

itself as a global financial and

technological hub, attracting

investments, businesses, and talent

from across the world. With its strategic

location, favourable business environment,

and robust infrastructure,

the nation continues to enhance its

appeal to international investors. The

UAE’s commitment to innovation and

economic diversification has led to advancements

in sectors such as fintech,

artificial intelligence, and blockchain.

Government initiatives aimed at creating

a knowledge-based economy are

further boosting the nation’s growth.

As the country strengthens its global

partnerships and enhances regulatory

frameworks, it remains a preferred

destination for businesses seeking expansion

and innovation opportunities

in a dynamic market.

The regulatory technology (RegTech)

sector offers innovative solutions

designed to streamline compliance,

By adopting advanced

technologies such as

artificial intelligence

and blockchain, we aim

to enhance compliance

processes, reduce

operational risks, and

maintain the UAE’s

position as a leading

global financial hub.”

H.E. Khaled Mohamed Balama, Governor of

the Central Bank of the UAE

improve risk detection, and support

financial institutions in combating

financial crimes. By leveraging advanced

technologies such as artificial

intelligence, blockchain, and machine

learning, RegTech helps organisations

meet regulatory requirements more

effectively while reducing operational

costs. Its tools enhance data accuracy,

automate compliance processes, and

strengthen fraud detection mechanisms.

As financial regulations continue to

evolve, RegTech solutions provide

adaptable frameworks that can swiftly

integrate with existing systems, ensuring

real-time monitoring and reporting.

Financial institutions increasingly rely

on RegTech to address challenges related

to transparency, cybersecurity, and

global compliance, promoting a safer

and more efficient financial landscape.

Market Growth of RegTech in the

UAE

The RegTech market in the UAE is experiencing

rapid growth, fueled by rising

demand from financial institutions,

healthcare providers, and various other

sectors facing heightened regulatory

requirements. As the UAE continues to

strengthen its regulatory framework,

organizations are turning to RegTech

solutions for enhanced compliance

management, risk assessment, and

fraud prevention. Technologies like

artificial intelligence, blockchain,

and machine learning play a critical

role in transforming compliance processes,

making them more efficient

and accurate.

The RegTech industry in the UAE is

expected to grow at a CAGR of 28.3%,

reaching an estimated market value of

USD 258.04M by 2024.

This growth trend is expected to

continue, with the RegTech market in

the UAE projected to achieve a compound

annual growth rate (CAGR) of

18.7% from 2024 to 2029.

Government initiatives and collaborative

platforms

The UAE government actively supports

collaboration within the RegTech sector

through initiatives like the Dubai

Future Accelerators, which connects

technology companies with government

entities to create innovative compliance

solutions, as noted by Regtech

firm Zigram.

Furthermore, the growing demand

for RegTech is fuelled by the UAE’s

emphasis on digital transformation, in

line with its vision to become a global

leader in digital innovation. RegTech

solutions utilise AI and blockchain

technologies to improve data analysis

and facilitate real-time transaction

monitoring.

Prominent organisations such as

ADGM have already implemented

RegTech software, while DIFC hosts

activities, events, and workshops to

emphasise the significance of regulatory

compliance through advanced

technologies.

Some of the RegTech players in the

UAE Market

Several major RegTech companies,

both local and international, are active

in the UAE, specializing in AML

and compliance technologies. Some

prominent names include:

EastNets

A global provider of compliance and

payment solutions, EastNets specializes

in AML, fraud detection, and financial

transaction monitoring. Serving a broad

range of financial and government

clients, EastNets enhances compliance

efficiency and risk management

capabilities.

BANKIQ

Provides RegTech solutions focused on

compliance automation and customer

onboarding, helping financial institutions

streamline regulatory processes

and bolster operational compliance.

180 Capital

Delivers compliance solutions for

digital assets, especially suited to

businesses in cryptocurrency and fintech

that navigate complex regulatory

landscapes.

The UAE’s RegTech market demonstrates

the government’s continued

efforts to adopt cutting-edge regulatory

technologies, reinforcing its status as

a reliable and compliant financial hub.

By promoting initiatives like the Dubai

Future Accelerators and supporting digital

transformation, the UAE is actively

enhancing its regulatory landscape to

meet evolving global standards. With

key entities like ADGM and DIFC implementing

innovative RegTech solutions,

the country remains committed to

building a forward-thinking financial

ecosystem that prioritises innovation,

compliance, and security.


Funding & Investment News

UAE and Chad Presidents

Discuss Enhanced Bilateral

Cooperation

In a recent high-level meeting at

Qasr Al Shati in Abu Dhabi, UAE

President Sheikh Mohamed bin

Zayed Al Nahyan hosted Chadian

President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno

to explore avenues for deeper bilateral

cooperation. The leaders discussed

opportunities to expand partnerships

across vital sectors, including trade,

energy, infrastructure, and investment.

Emphasising mutual development,

both sides agreed on the importance

of building collaborative frameworks

that support long-term economic growth

and regional stability. The dialogue

underlined the UAE’s strategic intent to

strengthen its ties with African nations

through meaningful and sustainable

engagement. By reinforcing diplomatic

and economic relations with Chad, the

UAE continues to demonstrate its commitment

to international cooperation,

aligning with its broader foreign policy

goals and contributing to development

beyond its borders.

UAE Tech Startups Secure

$872M in Q1 2025

In the first quarter of 2025, UAE tech

startups attracted a remarkable $872

million in funding, representing an

865% increase compared to the same

period in 2024 and a 194% rise from

Q4 2024. This surge was predominantly

driven by late-stage investments,

which accounted for $760 million of

the total, indicating a maturing tech

ecosystem. Key sectors such as enterprise

applications and fintech led the

funding landscape, securing $688.1

million and $215.6 million, respectively.

Notable funding rounds included Vista

Global’s $600 million and Tabby’s

$160 million Series E. Dubai emerged

as the central hub, capturing 96% of

all venture capital raised in the UAE

during this period. Leading investors

included 500 Global, Wamda Capital,

and Middle East Venture Partners.

This significant influx of capital underscores

the UAE’s strategic focus

on scaling proven tech ventures and

its commitment to fostering a robust,

innovation-driven economy.

UAE Advances in AI Chip Access Following $1.4

Trillion Pledge

The UAE is making substantial

progress in gaining access to

advanced AI chips from the US,

following its monumental AED 5.1 trillion

(USD 1.4 trillion) pledge aimed at

boosting economic and technological

cooperation. Peng Xiao, CEO of Abu

Dhabi-based G42, confirmed that talks

with US stakeholders have yielded

“very good and tangible progress” in

overcoming export restrictions on highend

semiconductors. These chips are

crucial to powering next-generation AI

models, data analytics, and large-scale

machine learning. The development

reflects the UAE’s strategic commitment

to becoming a global AI hub and enhancing

digital sovereignty. The massive

investment is part of broader efforts

to diversify the economy beyond oil,

attract global tech partnerships, and

lead in innovation. With government

backing and strong sovereign wealth

support, the UAE is positioning itself

at the forefront of the AI revolution.

BridgeWise Secures Emirates NBD Investment

for MENA Expansion

BridgeWise, an AI-driven investment

intelligence platform, has

secured a strategic investment

from Emirates NBD as part of its Series

A funding round. This move coincides

with BridgeWise obtaining a license

from the Dubai International Financial

Centre (DIFC), marking its official

entry into the Middle East market.

The funding round also saw participation

from the Swiss and Brazilian

stock exchanges, reflecting strong

international confidence in Bridge-

Wise’s mission to democratize investment

research through explainable AI.

With the appointment of Ayush Khatri

as Regional Head for the Middle East,

North Africa, and Turkey (MENAT),

the company aims to accelerate its

growth and operations from its new

Dubai headquarters. This expansion

underscores the UAE’s commitment to

fostering innovation and solidifying its

position as a fintech hub in the region.

UAE, Pakistan Deepen Trade and Investment Ties

UAE Deputy Prime Minister and

Minister of Foreign Affairs,

Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al

Nahyan, arrived in Islamabad on April

20, 2025, for a two-day official visit

aimed at strengthening bilateral relations

between the UAE and Pakistan.

Received by Pakistan’s Deputy Prime

Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq

Dar, Sheikh Abdullah’s visit focuses on

enhancing cooperation in trade, investment,

energy, regional security, and

people-to-people exchanges. Meetings

with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif

are also scheduled to reaffirm the

shared vision for regional peace and

prosperity. This high-level engagement

underscores the deep-rooted, fraternal

ties between the two nations and their

commitment to expanding collaboration

across various sectors. The visit

follows the February 2025 trip by Abu

Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin

Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, during

which five agreements were signed

to boost cooperation in banking, railways,

mining, and infrastructure.


Joseph Mews Expands UK Luxury Property Offerings for UAE Investors

Joseph Mews, a UK-based property

investment firm, has unveiled No.

30 St. Pauls, a premium residential

development in Birmingham’s historic

Jewellery Quarter, tailored for UAE

investors. This boutique project features

58 upscale apartments and two

penthouses, blending Georgian heritage

with contemporary design. Strategically

located near Birmingham’s business

and creative hubs, the development

offers residents landscaped courtyards,

private terraces, and proximity

to the upcoming HS2 line, ensuring

swift connectivity to London. With a

dedicated office in Downtown Dubai,

Joseph Mews provides UAE clients with

comprehensive investment services,

from market insights to property management.

The firm’s partnership with

Elevate Property Group underscores

its commitment to delivering high-yield

UK real estate opportunities, aiming to

build generational wealth for investors

in the region.

NEOM Unveils Investment in Biomanufacturing

Sector

The NEOM Investment Fund (NIF)

has confirmed a strategic investment

in Liberation Labs, a leading

global firm in precision-fermentation

biomanufacturing, reinforcing NEOM’s

commitment to advancing innovative

food technologies. This partnership will

enable Liberation Labs to collaborate

with Topian, NEOM’s food company,

on the design and development of a

next-generation precision-fermentation

facility within the Kingdom of

Saudi Arabia. Liberation Labs builds

and operates specialised biomanufacturing

plants that apply precision

fermentation to create fundamental

food components without relying on

traditional agricultural systems. This

cutting-edge approach delivers a sustainable

and scalable alternative to

conventional food production, enabling

the manufacture of high-quality proteins

without the use of animals.

Dnata Announces $110 Million Global Cargo

Investment Plan

MENA Startup Funding

Drops 76% in March

Startup funding in the Middle East

and North Africa (MENA) region

witnessed a notable slowdown

in March, with total investment plummeting

by 76 per cent to $127.5 million

across 28 deals, compared to $530 million

in February. This drop remained

significant even after excluding debt

financing, highlighting the broader

impact of global economic uncertainty

and ongoing trade tensions involving

the United States. According to Wamda’s

monthly report, these geopolitical

developments have severely affected

investor confidence, leading to a 50

per cent year-on-year decrease in both

the volume and value of investments.

February’s funding peak had been

largely fuelled by prominent startup

events, most notably Saudi Arabia’s

LEAP conference. Despite the March

dip, the MENA region saw a strong

overall performance in Q1, with startups

raising $1.5 billion — a 244 per cent

rise from Q1 2024.

Dnata has unveiled a $110 million

global cargo investment

plan, with new facilities being

developed in the UAE, Netherlands,

and Iraq. These projects aim to enhance

dnata’s logistics capabilities and

provide more efficient services to its

growing customer base. The new facilities

are expected to begin operations

in 2025, marking a significant step in

the company’s global expansion. As

part of its global infrastructure investment,

dnata is building a 57,000 m²

cargo facility at Dubai South, backed

by a $27 million investment. The new

facility will be completed by the end

of 2025 and is set to process up to

400,000 tonnes of cargo annually. Designed

with scalability in mind, it will

feature a temperature-controlled warehouse

and areas dedicated to truck

loading and offloading. This facility

will enhance dnata’s capacity to meet

increasing demand in the region.


Finance


UAE’s financial landscape evolves with digital advancements, and customer experiences.

The Future

of Financial

Services: 5 Key

Trends to Watch

Embracing Innovation and Transformation,

the UAE’s Financial Sector Adapts to

Emerging Trends and Technologies.

The UAE’s financial sector is undergoing

a transformative shift, driven by

technological advancements, regulatory

developments, and evolving consumer

demands. As the region strengthens its

position as a global financial hub, key

trends are shaping its future. From the rise

of digital banking and fintech innovation

to the adoption of blockchain and AI, the

landscape is rapidly evolving. Sustainable

finance, regulatory enhancements, and

cross-border collaboration are also gaining

momentum. Understanding these trends

is crucial for businesses and investors

seeking opportunities in the UAE’s dynamic

financial ecosystem. This article

explores the five key trends to watch that

will define the future of financial services

in the UAE.


The United Arab Emirates (UAE)

has experienced a remarkable

surge in digital banking and fintech

innovation, establishing itself as

a regional leader in financial technology.

In 2024, the UAE’s fintech market

was valued at approximately USD 2.97

billion and is projected to reach USD

11.68 billion by 2032, reflecting a compound

annual growth rate (CAGR) of

8.73%. This growth is propelled by a

young, tech-savvy population and robust

digital infrastructure.

The number of active fintech companies

in the UAE has risen dramatically,

from 144 in 2011 to 329 in 2024, marking

a 128.5% increase. This expansion encompasses

various services, including

payment solutions, digital lending, and

wealth management platforms. The

UAE’s proactive regulatory environment

fosters innovation and attracts significant

foreign investment in the sector.

For instance, Abu Dhabi’s MGX, an

AI-focused fund, invested $2 billion in

Binance, the world’s largest cryptocurrency

exchange, marking Binance’s first

institutional funding. This investment

aligns with the UAE’s strategic goal to

become a global hub for digital assets

and blockchain innovation.

Blockchain and Cryptocurrency

Adoption

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has

solidified its position as a proactive

adopter of blockchain technology and

cryptocurrencies, exemplified by the

introduction of AE Coin, the nation’s

first fully regulated, dirham-backed

stablecoin. Approved by the Central

Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) in December

2024, AE Coin is pegged 1:1 with

the UAE dirham and is fully backed by

reserves held within the country. This

initiative aligns with the UAE’s Digital

Government Strategy 2025, aiming to

integrate blockchain technology into

its financial infrastructure and enhance

trust in digital finance. In a landmark

move, Abu Dhabi-based investment firm

MGX invested $2 billion in Binance,

the world’s largest cryptocurrency

exchange, marking Binance’s first

institutional funding. This investment

underscores MGX’s commitment to

advancing blockchain’s transformative

potential for digital finance. MGX’s

CEO, Ahmed Yahia, highlighted the

firm’s dedication to supporting secure,

compliant, and scalable blockchain

infrastructure, reflecting the UAE’s

ambition to become a global hub for

digital assets and the crypto industry.

These strategic initiatives demonstrate

the UAE’s dedication to economic diversification

and its proactive approach

to integrating innovative technologies

into its financial ecosystem.

Artificial Intelligence in Financial

Services

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is playing an

increasingly pivotal role in the United

Arab Emirates’ (UAE) financial sector.

Financial institutions are leveraging AI

for various applications, including customer

service chatbots, fraud detection

systems, and personalized financial

planning. For instance, the National

Bank of Ras Al Khaimah has implemented

an AI-powered chatbot to enhance

customer service. Abu Dhabi-based

investment firm MGX initially focused

on AI infrastructure, has expanded its

investment portfolio to include blockchain

technology. In March 2025, MGX

made a landmark $2 billion investment

in Binance, the world’s largest cryptocurrency

exchange. This strategic

move reflects the convergence of AI

and financial services, underscoring

the UAE’s dedication to harnessing

AI’s potential to enhance its financial

sector. These developments highlight

the UAE’s commitment to integrating

advanced technologies into its financial

ecosystem, positioning the nation as a

leader in financial innovation.

Sustainable Finance Initiatives

Sustainable finance has gained significant

prominence in the United Arab

Emirates (UAE), aligning with global

environmental, social, and governance

(ESG) trends. The nation is actively

promoting green bonds and sustainable

investment funds to support environmentally

friendly projects. In a landmark

initiative, the UAE banking sector has

committed to mobilising over AED 1

trillion in sustainable finance by 2030,

demonstrating a robust dedication to

sustainability. This focus on sustainability

is attracting international investors

seeking ESG-compliant opportunities,

thereby enhancing the UAE’s appeal as

a forward-thinking financial hub. For

instance, Brookfield Asset Management

raised $2.4 billion for a climate fund,

with significant backing from the UAE,

including a $1 billion commitment

Our growth is driven by

ambitious strategies and

sound financial policies,

keeping pace with global

economic changes and

building on a proven track

record of achievements

in the financial and

economic sectors.”

H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin

Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of

Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister

of Finance in the UAE

from ALTERRA, a UAE-based climate

fund. These developments reflect a

growing commitment to integrating

sustainability into financial practices,

positioning the UAE as a leader in

sustainable finance.

Regulatory Enhancements and

Cross-Border Collaboration

The UAE’s regulatory bodies are continually

evolving to foster innovation

while ensuring financial stability. The

Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE)

launched the Financial Infrastructure

Transformation (FIT) Programme to

accelerate the digital transformation

of the financial services sector. This

programme comprises nine key initiatives,

including the development of a

central bank digital currency and the

implementation of a domestic card

scheme.


Merger and Acquisition News

Masdar Acquires Valle Solar, Advancing Spain’s Renewable Energy Landscape

Masdar, Abu Dhabi’s leading

renewable energy company,

has finalised the acquisition

of Valle Solar, a 234 MW photovoltaic

project situated in Spain’s Valencia

region. The project, developed through

Masdar’s Iberian platform, Saeta, is slated

to become operational by the first half

of 2027. It also includes the potential

integration of a 259 MW Battery Energy

Storage System (BESS), enhancing its

capacity and reliability. Located across

the municipalities of Ayora, Jarafuel, and

Zarra, Valle Solar exemplifies sustainable

development by incorporating biodiversity

initiatives and community engagement.

This acquisition aligns with Masdar’s

strategic objective of achieving a global

clean energy portfolio of 100 GW by 2030,

reinforcing its commitment to Spain’s

energy transformation and the broader

European renewable energy sector. The

project was initially promoted by a joint

venture between Genia Solar Energy and

Solar Ventures.

TAQA Acquires

UK-Based Transmission

Investment

Abu Dhabi National Energy Company

(TAQA) has acquired 100% of

Transmission Investment (TI), a

prominent UK-based energy and utility

investment platform specialising in

electricity transmission systems. TI is

one of the largest independent operators

of offshore transmission (OFTO) assets

in the UK, connecting wind farms to the

national grid. This strategic acquisition

marks a major milestone in TAQA’s

ambition to expand its presence in key

international markets and underscores

its commitment to supporting the global

energy transition. By acquiring TI, TAQA

will benefit from advanced technical

expertise and established infrastructure,

positioning it to play a stronger role in

enabling clean energy transport. The

move is aligned with TAQA’s broader

vision of growing its regulated asset

base and strengthening its low-carbon

portfolio globally.

Savvy Automotive Explores Acquisition of BluSmart

UAE to Expand Green Mobility

Savvy Automotive, an Abu Dhabi-based

innovator in sustainable

transportation, is in advanced

talks to acquire BluSmart’s UAE operations.

The potential deal aligns with

Savvy’s strategy to scale eco-friendly

and tech-driven mobility solutions

across the region. CEO Muhammad

Jamal praised BluSmart’s efficient

business model, noting it complements

Savvy’s vision for sustainable transport.

Savvy Automotive, headquartered in

Mussafah 14, Abu Dhabi, integrates

cutting-edge technology in its operations

and holds exclusive access to

international brands like Electra UK

and China’s Newrizon, leaders in the

commercial electric truck market.

The acquisition would bolster Savvy’s

portfolio, enhancing its capabilities in

delivering innovative mobility solutions

throughout the UAE. The company’s

leadership, including CMO Saeed Al

Junaibi and CFO Tarish Al Qubaisi,

emphasises a commitment to advancing

green mobility initiatives in the region.

Mubadala to Invest $600 Million in UK School

Operator Nord Anglia

Abu Dhabi’s sovereign investor,

Mubadala Investment Company,

is set to invest USD 600M in Nord

Anglia Education, a leading operator of

premium international schools. Nord

Anglia manages over 80 schools in 33

countries, including several campuses

in the UAE. The investment reflects

Mubadala’s increasing focus on stable,

long-term sectors such as education,

healthcare, and digital infrastructure.

As part of its diversification strategy,

Mubadala aims to support global platforms

that provide high-quality learning

outcomes and contribute to human capital

development. This deal will give Mubadala

exposure to the resilient and growing

international education sector, while also

supporting Nord Anglia’s continued global

expansion. The acquisition is expected

to further strengthen ties between the

UAE and the UK in the education domain.


Dubizzle Group Acquires Property Monitor to Enhance Real Estate Market

Dubizzle Group, the UAE’s leading

classifieds and marketplace

platform, has announced the

acquisition of Property Monitor, a real

estate data and analytics platform known

for offering market transparency and

intelligence. This acquisition is expected

to significantly boost Dubizzle’s capacity

to provide accurate, real-time insights

into property trends, valuations, and

transaction data. Property Monitor will

now operate under Dubizzle’s growing

Al Ansari Financial Services

Completes Acquisition of

BFC Group

Al Ansari Financial Services

(AAFS), a leading financial

services provider in the UAE,

has successfully concluded its acquisition

of Bahrain’s BFC Group for USD

200 million. This strategic acquisition

marks a significant milestone in AAFS’s

expansion strategy, which aims to enhance

its service offerings in the Gulf

region. With the completion of the deal,

AAFS strengthens its market position,

not only expanding its geographical

footprint in Bahrain, Kuwait, and India

but also increasing its customer base

by 29%. The acquisition further bolsters

AAFS’s ability to offer comprehensive

services, including remittance, foreign

exchange, and digital payments. As part

of its expansion plan, AAFS is also set

to increase its branch network by 60%.

This move is expected to create synergies

between both companies, enabling

them to provide enhanced financial

services across multiple markets while

maintaining their commitment to secure

and seamless cross-border financial

transactions.

proptech portfolio, which already includes

Bayut, dubizzle, Drive Arabia,

and Hatla2ee. The move aligns with

Dubizzle Group’s strategy to foster

data-driven decision-making in real

estate and enhance user experience for

consumers, brokers, and developers.

It also supports the UAE’s vision of a

more transparent, digitally enabled

property market, paving the way for

informed investments and efficient

property transactions.

LuLu Group’s IPO to Propel Strategic Expansion

LuLu Group’s recent initial public

offering (IPO) is poised to significantly

accelerate its expansion

across regional and international markets.

According to Dr. Althaf, Director

of LuLu Group, the IPO is expected

to enhance the company’s financial

flexibility, enabling greater investment

in infrastructure, logistics, and digital

platforms. With a strong focus on operational

efficiency and customer-centric

innovation, the Group aims to solidify

its presence in existing markets while

exploring opportunities in untapped

regions. Dr. Althaf highlighted that

the IPO would also introduce a higher

standard of governance and corporate

accountability, which will be

instrumental in supporting sustainable

growth. The move aligns with LuLu’s

broader strategy of aligning with national

economic visions, particularly

in the Gulf, by generating employment,

supporting local suppliers, and contributing

to long-term food security

and retail development.

Masdar Finalises Full Acquisition of Terna Energy

Masdar, the UAE’s flagship renewable

energy company, has

completed the acquisition of

the remaining 30% stake in Greece’s

Terna Energy, making it the sole owner

of the company. This move follows

a mandatory tender offer, bringing

Masdar’s total ownership of Terna Energy

to 100%. The acquisition reflects

Masdar’s commitment to furthering its

clean energy portfolio and accelerating

its growth in the European market. By

fully acquiring Terna Energy, Masdar

gains increased access to renewable

energy projects in Greece, which plays

a key role in the country’s transition

to a sustainable energy future. The

acquisition is part of Masdar’s larger

strategy to meet its ambitious target of

achieving 100 GW of renewable energy

capacity by 2030. With this expanded

stake, Masdar is poised to contribute

significantly to Europe’s renewable

energy capacity, supporting the region’s

commitment to carbon neutrality and

reinforcing Masdar’s leadership in the

global clean energy market.


Wheels

2025 M itsubish i

Outlan der PH EV

170 km/h

Top Speed

450 Nm

Torque

306 HP

Horse Power


May 2025

The 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander Plugin

Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV)

marks a crucial step forward in

Mitsubishi’s push toward sustainable

mobility. This SUV integrates advanced

hybrid technology with practical design

and comfort, making it a compelling choice

in the UAE’s evolving automotive market.

The Outlander PHEV is powered by a

2.4L MIVEC petrol engine paired with twin

electric motors, delivering a combined

306 horsepower and 450 Nm of torque.

This setup enables the vehicle to accelerate

from 0 to 100 km/h in around 6.5

seconds. Its 20.0 kWh lithium-ion battery

provides an electric-only range of up to

84 kilometres, ideal for daily commutes

in the UAE’s urban settings. The PHEV

system is designed for smooth transitions

between electric and hybrid modes, ensuring

efficient performance without

compromising power.

The 2025 Outlander PHEV design features

a bold new grille, sleek LED headlights,

and refined body lines that enhance

its aerodynamic efficiency. The exterior

styling reflects Mitsubishi’s modern design

language while maintaining the SUV’s

robust presence. With seating for up to

seven passengers, the Outlander ensures

comfort and practicality for families and

frequent travellers.

Inside, the SUV offers a luxurious and

tech-forward cabin. It has a 12.3-inch digital

driver display, a 9.0-inch infotainment

system with navigation, wireless Apple

CarPlay and Android Auto, and a tri-zone

climate control system. Premium materials

and thoughtful layout enhance the

sense of comfort, while flexible cargo

space supports versatile usage.

In terms of driving dynamics, the 2025

Outlander PHEV features Mitsubishi’s

Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system,

which boosts stability and control

across varied terrains. The vehicle also

offers multiple drive modes, including

Power, Eco, Tarmac, Gravel, Snow, and

Mud, tailored for the UAE’s diverse road

conditions. Regenerative braking and EV

mode selectors allow for further customisation

and fuel savings.

In the UAE, the 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander

PHEV is available in several trims,

with prices ranging from approximately

AED 96,495 to AED 153,000 for the topspec

S-AWD Topline model. This pricing

positions it competitively within the hybrid

SUV segment, especially for consumers

seeking performance, space, and fuel efficiency.

As the UAE accelerates its green

mobility initiatives, the 2025 Outlander

PHEV stands out as a practical and

eco-conscious solution. Its strong hybrid

capabilities, modern tech features, and

adaptable performance make it a smart

choice for forward-thinking drivers in

the region.

The Outlander PHEV continues to

reinforce Mitsubishi’s reputation for reliability

while embracing a cleaner, more

sustainable future-aligning perfectly with

the UAE’s vision for reduced carbon emissions

and innovative transport solutions.

May 2025


Sports News

Registration Opens for Dubai Marathon 2026 Silver Jubilee

Registration is now open for the

25th edition of the Dubai Marathon,

scheduled for February

1, 2026. Celebrating its silver jubilee,

the event is set to attract participants

from over 140 countries, reaffirming

its status as a premier global marathon.

Recognised as the first race

in the region to earn the prestigious

Gold Label from World Athletics, the

Dubai Marathon has a rich history of

record-breaking performances, including

Haile Gebrselassie’s remarkable run

in 2008. The 2026 edition will feature

the traditional 42.195 km marathon,

a 10 km road race, and a 4 km fun

run, catering to runners of all levels.

Organisers, in collaboration with the

Dubai Sports Council, are planning a

series of special events throughout the

year to commemorate this milestone.

Interested participants can register

online via the official Dubai Marathon

website.

Pogacar Secures Second

For UAE Team Emirates

Tadej Pogačar of UAE Team Emirates

showcased an exceptional

performance at the 2024 Liège–

Bastogne–Liège race, finishing second

in one of cycling’s most prestigious

one-day events. Competing against a

world-class field, Pogačar’s powerful

sprint in the final stages demonstrated

his consistency and endurance, narrowly

missing the top spot to Remco Evenepoel.

The race covered over 254 km,

marked by tough climbs and tactical

sprints, and concluded with a thrilling

finish. UAE Team Emirates continues

to affirm its status in international cycling,

with strong support from team

members and strategic excellence.

Pogačar’s achievement adds to his

already impressive season and reflects

the UAE’s growing influence in global

sports, particularly in endurance disciplines.

His placement further reinforces

the team’s commitment to high-level

performance and competitiveness on

the world stage.

Sheikh Hamdan Meets Indian Cricket Stars in

Mumbai

During his inaugural official visit

to India, Dubai Crown Prince

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed

bin Rashid Al Maktoum met with

International Cricket Council (ICC)

Chairman Jay Shah and Indian cricket

captain Rohit Sharma, along with players

Hardik Pandya and Suryakumar

Yadav, in Mumbai. The discussions

highlighted the UAE’s commitment to

fostering global sports through international

collaborations. Sheikh Hamdan

emphasised the UAE’s advanced infrastructure

and its role as a hub for international

sporting excellence, noting

Dubai’s hosting of the ICC headquarters

since 2005. He also congratulated the

Indian team on their recent victory in

the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, which

concluded at the Dubai International

Cricket Stadium. The Indian players

shared their positive experiences of

participating in UAE tournaments,

praising the country’s facilities and

sporting environment.

Hit Show Wins Big at Dubai World Cup 2025

The 29th edition of the Dubai World

Cup, held at Meydan Racecourse,

lived up to its reputation as one

of the world’s most prestigious horse

racing events. With nine fiercely contested

races and a record prize pot of

USD 30.5 million, the competition drew

102 horses from 13 countries. In the

headline race, Hit Show, representing

Wathnan Racing and trained by Brad

Cox, claimed victory in an impressive

time of 2.035 minutes, earning USD

6.96 million. Ridden by Florent Geroux,

the five-year-old held off Mixto,

guided by Frankie Dettori, who took

second place and USD 2.4 million.

Japanese colt Forever Young secured

third. Other highlights included Japan’s

Danon Decile triumphing in the USD

6 million Longines Dubai Sheema

Classic and Soul Rush dominating the

USD 5 million Dubai Turf. The event

underlined Dubai’s global standing in

equestrian sport.


UAE Mixed Bridge Team Qualifies For 2025 World Bridge Team Championships

The UAE Mixed Bridge Team has

successfully qualified for the 2025

World Bridge Team Championships

following an outstanding performance

at the Asia & Middle East Zonal event.

This marks a significant milestone for

the nation in the realm of intellectual

sports. The team secured its spot after

competing fiercely against top regional

teams, showcasing strategic excellence,

communication, and precision.

The qualification highlights the UAE’s

expanding presence in mind sports,

driven by local initiatives promoting

cognitive competition. Organised by

the World Bridge Federation, the 2025

championship will offer a global platform

for the UAE to demonstrate its

skill. This achievement underscores

the nation’s broader efforts to support

non-traditional sports and foster global

recognition in diverse sporting arenas.

It also reflects the strategic investment

in nurturing competitive talent across

all disciplines.

Abu Dhabi Marine Club

Honours Champions

The Abu Dhabi Marine Sports

Club concluded a thrilling

round of marine competitions

by crowning the winners of various

traditional and modern races held at

Breakwater. The event featured fierce

participation from both local and international

competitors, celebrating

the UAE’s rich maritime heritage while

promoting water sports. Winners were

honoured in multiple categories, including

powerboat racing and heritage

dhow sailing, with large audiences

cheering from the shores. The Club reaffirmed

its commitment to developing

marine sports by fostering community

engagement and offering high-quality

events. These competitions serve as a

platform to support young talent and

reinforce Abu Dhabi’s standing as a

premier marine sports destination.

With enthusiastic participation and

strong organisational support, the

event successfully showcased the spirit

of sportsmanship and cultural pride

embedded in the UAE’s coastal legacy.

University Games Drive Sports Talent in the UAE

The ongoing UAE University Games

are playing a vital role in identifying

and nurturing future sports talent

across higher education institutions.

Organised under the patronage of the

UAE Sports Federation for School and

University Education, the games provide

a competitive arena for students in disciplines

such as basketball, football, and

athletics. With over 2,500 participants

from more than 30 universities, the event

underscores the UAE’s commitment to

integrating sports within academic environments.

The initiative also promotes

physical fitness, teamwork, and leadership

among youth. Through structured

competition and wide participation,

the University Games are contributing

significantly to the national sports ecosystem

by building a robust foundation

for future professionals. The federation

aims to further expand its reach and

develop elite athletes through such

inclusive platforms.

Emirates Cup Highlights UAE’s Athletic Growth

The UAE Athletics Federation successfully

hosted the Emirates Cup,

attracting over 300 athletes from

16 clubs across the country. Held at the

Dubai Police Officers Club Stadium, the

event aimed to elevate the standard of

local athletics and provide a competitive

platform for emerging talents. Featuring

a range of track and field events, the

competition saw athletes deliver impressive

performances, reflecting growing

interest and investment in athletics. The

tournament also promoted gender equality,

with strong participation from both

male and female competitors. Organisers

emphasised the role of the Emirates Cup

in preparing athletes for regional and international

championships. The initiative

aligns with the UAE’s broader vision to

cultivate sporting excellence and inspire

the next generation of champions through

structured programmes and nationwide

athletic development.


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Business


AI and stablecoins working together to enhance business efficiency in the digital era.

Artificial Intelligence

and Stablecoins: A

Powerful Duo for a

Smarter Business Era

Exploring How Artificial Intelligence and

Stablecoins are Transforming the Future of

Business and Financial Operations.

In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape,

the integration of Artificial Intelligence

(AI) and stablecoins is emerging

as a powerful catalyst for innovation. AI,

with its ability to process vast amounts

of data and make real-time decisions,

is transforming industries by improving

efficiency and enabling predictive analytics.

When combined with stablecoins

digital currencies designed to maintain

a stable value this fusion creates a more

reliable and secure financial ecosystem.

Businesses can optimise financial services,

streamline operations, and explore new

growth avenues. As these technologies

continue to evolve, they promise to unlock

further opportunities in payments, and

customer experience, ultimately reshaping

the future of global commerce.


In the rapidly evolving world of finance,

businesses are looking for

ways to innovate and stay ahead of

the curve. The intersection of Artificial

Intelligence (AI) and stablecoins presents

a unique opportunity to reshape

the way businesses operate, particularly

in the areas of payments, financial

services, and risk management. As

the world adapts to digital currencies,

combining AI’s data processing capabilities

with stablecoins’ price stability

offers immense potential for creating

more efficient, secure, and scalable financial

solutions.

The Role of Artificial Intelligence

in Financial Innovation

Artificial Intelligence has become a

cornerstone of technological innovation

across industries, and finance

is no exception. AI, with its capacity

to process vast amounts of data and

make real-time decisions, enables

businesses to streamline operations,

enhance customer experiences, and

predict market trends more accurately.

Machine learning, natural language

processing, and predictive analytics

are some of the key areas where AI is

having the greatest impact.

In financial services, AI helps with

fraud detection, credit scoring, portfolio

management, and algorithmic trading.

These applications reduce human error

and make financial processes more

efficient. In the context of customer

service, AI-powered chatbots and

virtual assistants are already revolutionising

client interactions, offering

support around the clock and improving

service quality.

Stablecoins: A Stable Foundation

for Digital Transactions

Stablecoins, digital currencies pegged

to traditional assets like fiat currencies

or commodities, are designed

to address the volatility issues that

often plague cryptocurrencies like

Bitcoin and Ethereum. By stabilising

their value, stablecoins provide a more

reliable medium for transactions and

store of value. This is especially crucial

for businesses looking to adopt

blockchain-based solutions without

the risk of sudden price fluctuations.

Unlike their more volatile counterparts,

stablecoins can be used for

cross-border payments, remittances,

and day-to-day transactions, allowing

businesses to expand their reach and

improve liquidity without the complications

associated with traditional

currencies. The growing adoption of

stablecoins by global enterprises and

financial institutions demonstrates

their ability to bridge the gap between

traditional and digital finance, enabling

smoother transactions, reduced costs,

and increased speed.

The Synergy Between

AI and Stablecoins

The combination of AI and stablecoins

could prove to be a game-changer for

businesses in the financial sector. AI’s

analytical power and stablecoins’ price

stability offer numerous advantages

when integrated. For instance, AI can be

used to analyse large sets of transaction

data in real time, identifying trends,

potential risks, and opportunities for

businesses. This can lead to more informed

decision-making and a better

understanding of market movements,

ultimately helping businesses optimise

their strategies.

Harnessing the power of

Artificial Intelligence and

stablecoins will be key

to the UAE’s vision for a

future-ready economy.”

H.E. Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE

Minister of State for Foreign Trade

Furthermore, the use of AI can

enhance the security of stablecoin

transactions. AI algorithms can detect

unusual patterns in transactions and

flag potential fraudulent activities, offering

an additional layer of protection

for businesses and customers. This

is particularly valuable as the digital

currency space grows, bringing with it

increased risks and challenges related

to cyber threats.

Stablecoins enable faster and more

secure cross-border transactions by

maintaining a stable value, mitigating

the volatility often seen in cryptocurrencies.

When integrated with AI,

businesses can automate payment

processing and settlement, streamlining

operations and reducing human intervention.

This combination enhances

efficiency, lowers costs, and increases

accuracy in financial transactions. As a

result, businesses can achieve quicker,

more reliable international transfers

while improving overall operational

productivity. Stablecoins, alongside

AI technologies, represent a transformative

shift in payment systems,

offering a secure, automated solution

that supports the growing demand for

seamless, real-time financial transactions

in the global market.

The Benefits for Businesses

For businesses looking to harness

the power of AI and stablecoins, the

potential benefits are vast. Firstly, AI

can enable businesses to gain deeper

insights into customer preferences,

behaviour, and buying patterns. By

analysing this data, companies can

tailor their services and products

more effectively, improving customer

engagement and satisfaction.

In addition, stablecoins’ ability to

reduce transaction costs and speed up

payments can lead to more competitive

pricing models. As businesses can transact

in a more secure and stable digital

currency, they can mitigate the risk of

currency fluctuations and exchange

rate issues, which are particularly

significant in cross-border trade.

Another notable advantage is the

improved regulatory compliance that AI

can bring to the table. As governments

and regulatory bodies continue to impose

stricter and informed regulations

on digital currencies, businesses will

need solutions that can adapt to these

changes.


Global News

China Faces Up to 245% Tariff on U.S. Imports as Trade Tensions Escalate

China faces fresh tariff pressure

from the United States, with

rates climbing as high as 245%.

The announcement followed President

Donald Trump’s signing of an executive

order on Tuesday. This order authorises

a national security probe into America’s

dependence on imported critical

minerals. The investigation, launched

under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion

Act of 1962, tasks the Secretary of

Commerce with reviewing the security

risks linked to mineral imports. Trump

previously invoked the same law to

examine steel, aluminium, copper,

and lumber imports during his first

term. Although the order doesn’t name

China directly, the country remains the

top producer of 30 out of 50 minerals

deemed essential by the U.S. Geological

Survey. Tensions have surged since April

4, when China’s Ministry of Commerce

hit back at U.S. tariffs by restricting the

export of seven rare earth elements.

US and Saudi Arabia to Seal Nuclear and Energy

Investment Agreements

White House Imposes 104%

Tariff on Chinese Imports

The United States and Saudi

Arabia are preparing to sign a

preliminary energy investment

agreement, which includes a significant

deal for civilian nuclear technology.

This announcement was made by US

Energy Secretary Chris Wright during

a press conference in Riyadh. Wright

noted that further details about the

nuclear cooperation plan will be shared

later this year. His remarks came after

he met Saudi Energy Minister Prince

Abdulaziz bin Salman, where both

sides signalled strong interest in future

collaboration. Wright highlighted that

both nations are moving closer to a

partnership that will help Saudi Arabia

develop its civil nuclear programme.

However, such cooperation must comply

with Section 123 of the US Atomic

Energy Act of 1954. This law requires

strict non-proliferation standards to

ensure nuclear technology remains

peaceful. Wright also assured that the

agreement would meet the objectives

of Washington and Riyadh while promoting

responsible technology use.

The White House has confirmed

that a 104% tariff on imports from

China has officially taken effect,

marking a sharp escalation in trade

tensions between the two economic

giants. The action follows through on

a threat issued by President Donald

Trump, who had given Beijing until

Monday to withdraw its retaliatory

34% tariffs on American goods. With

China refusing to back down, the United

States responded by implementing one

of its most aggressive trade measures in

recent memory. According to a report

by Fox Business, the new tariff, factoring

in existing duties and additional

levies under Section 301 of the Trade

Act, came into force at 12:01 a.m. ET

on Tuesday, April 9, the tariff will be

collected immediately.

DP World, India Launch Bharat Africa Setu to Enhance Trade with Africa

During a recent UAE state visit

to India, DP World and the

Government of India jointly

unveiled the Bharat Africa Setu - a

dedicated trade corridor designed to

significantly boost commercial ties

between India and Africa. The launch

was marked by the presence of Dubai

Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed

bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE

Deputy Prime Minister and Defence

Minister Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem,

and India’s Minister of Commerce and

Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal. Highlighting

Africa’s untapped potential, Sultan

Ahmed bin Sulayem emphasised that

trade and partnerships remain crucial

to the continent’s economic growth.

According to him, the Bharat Africa

Setu will provide Indian exporters with

improved access to Africa’s growing

consumer base by streamlining bilateral

trade and enhancing market entry

points. Endorsed by India’s Ministry

of Commerce and Industry and the

Ministry of External Affairs, the Bharat

Africa Setu will link DP World’s extensive

network of ports, economic zones,

and logistics parks across India and

Africa. This new platform is designed

to offer Indian businesses.


Global Markets Rebound

as Trump Halts Tariffs for

90 Days

Markets staged a sharp rebound

on Thursday after US President

Donald Trump unexpectedly

announced a 90-day suspension of newly

imposed tariffs on dozens of countries.

The move, which followed a turbulent

market rout earlier this week, brought

temporary relief to global equities and

bonds. However, US stock futures and

the dollar struggled to join the rally,

reflecting deeper investor unease. The

surprise reversal, coming just one day

after Trump introduced sweeping tariffs,

momentarily halted a downward spiral

that had wiped out trillions in global

market value. It also eased pressure

on US Treasury bonds, where yields

had surged amid widespread selling.

Japan’s Nikkei jumped 8%, and Hong

Kong’s Hang Seng rose 2.2%. China’s

CSI300 blue-chip index climbed 1%.

European futures also surged, with

the EUROSTOXX 50 and DAX both up

around 8%, while FTSE futures gained

5.4%. Despite the upbeat sentiment

abroad, Nasdaq futures dropped more

than 1%, and S&P 500 futures slid 0.75%

in early Thursday trading.

Dubai Crown Prince

Sheikh Hamdan Meets

Indian PM Modi

Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan

bin Mohammed Al Maktoum

praised the deep-rooted ties

between the UAE and India during his

official visit to New Delhi on Tuesday.

He met Indian Prime Minister Narendra

Modi and discussed avenues for enhanced

cooperation between the two

nations. Sheikh Hamdan arrived earlier

in the day for a two-day official visit.

He described the UAE–India partnership

as one “built on trust, shaped by

history, and driven by a shared vision

to create a future full of opportunity,

innovation, and lasting prosperity.” In

a post shared on X, he wrote, “It was a

pleasure meeting Prime Minister Narendra

Modi today in New Delhi. Our

conversations reaffirmed the strength

of UAE–India ties, which is built on

trust, shaped by history, and driven

by a shared visions.

UAE and India Sign Eight Landmark Agreements

During Sheikh Hamdan’s Official Visit

During his official visit to India

from April 8 to 9, 2025, His

Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin

Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum,

Crown Prince of Dubai, reinforced the

UAE’s commitment to strengthening

its economic and strategic ties with

India. The visit resulted in the signing

of eight significant Memoranda of

Understanding (MoUs) and included

high-level discussions aimed at enhancing

cooperation across trade,

education, logistics, and healthcare.

Held across New Delhi and Mumbai,

the visit builds on the momentum created

by the Comprehensive Economic

Partnership Agreement (CEPA), with

a clear focus on building future-ready

economic corridors between the two

nations. The education and healthcare

sectors in particular are poised for

transformation, with Dubai gaining

access to Indian academic expertise,

while India benefits from new R&D and

innovation channels in the UAE. This

visit has not only reaffirmed strategic

ties but has laid out a tactical economic

blueprint that both nations are now

positioned to implement.

Trump Plans Visit to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and UAE

as Early as May

U.S. President Donald Trump

announced plans to visit Saudi

Arabia in May. He aims to sign

a major investment agreement, marking

his first foreign trip of his second

term. His itinerary also includes stops

in Qatar and the United Arab Emirates

(UAE), where he expects to finalise

similar agreements. “It could be next

month, maybe a little later,” Trump told

reporters in the Oval Office. Sources

familiar with the plan said the visit

will likely take place in mid-May. In

2017, Trump also chose Saudi Arabia

as the first stop of his inaugural foreign

tour. Trump said the trip will focus on

securing a $1 trillion investment in the

U.S. economy. The agreement includes

major purchases of military equipment.

He suggested that Qatar and the UAE

may also sign similar deals. “Tremendous

jobs will be created in those two

or three days,” Trump said. However,

he did not provide further details.

UAE Proposes Underwater High-Speed Bullet

Train Linking Dubai and Mumbai

The UAE is planning an ambitious

underwater high-speed bullet

train that will connect Dubai

and Mumbai. This groundbreaking

project aims to enhance trade, tourism,

and connectivity between the

two cities, setting a new benchmark

for transportation innovation. The

underwater rail link is expected to

span approximately 2,000 kilometres,

significantly reducing travel

time between Dubai and Mumbai.

The concept, which has been under

discussion for several years, is now

gaining momentum with feasibility

studies and initial planning phases

underway. Experts believe this project

will revolutionise transportation

between the UAE and India, fostering

economic and cultural ties. This train

will not only serve passengers but

also facilitate the transport of goods,

including oil and water. The UAE and

India share strong trade relations,

and this project is expected to further

strengthen economic partnerships.


FinTech


Genetic AI transforms financial services with innovation, and intelligent solutions.

The Role of

Genetic AI in

Revolutionizing

Financial Services

The Role of Genetic AI in Transforming

Financial Services with Innovation, Automation,

and Intelligent Decision Making.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is at

the forefront of integrating generative

artificial intelligence (Gen AI) into its

financial services sector. This strategic

move aims to enhance efficiency, customer

experience, and innovation. In 2024, Zand

Bank partnered with Alibaba Cloud and

Ant Digital Technologies to accelerate

Gen AI adoption, focusing on applications

such as blockchain and payment technologies.

The UAE’s National Strategy for

Artificial Intelligence 2031 underscores

the nation’s commitment to becoming a

global leader in AI, fostering a supportive

environment for digital transformation.

As Gen AI continues to evolve, its role in

revolutionising financial services within

the UAE is poised to expand, offering

innovative solutions.


Generative Artificial Intelligence

(AI) is transforming customer

interactions in the financial sector.

By analysing vast datasets, AI systems

can generate personalised financial

advice tailored to individual needs.

AI-powered chatbots, for example,

provide real-time assistance, addressing

customer queries promptly and efficiently.

One notable example is Virgin

Money’s chatbot, which showcases the

industry’s shift towards AI-driven customer

service. These AI tools not only

enhance customer satisfaction but also

improve operational efficiency, reducing

response times and human error. As

AI evolves, financial institutions are increasingly

relying on such technology

to create more personalised experiences,

ultimately fostering stronger client

relationships.

Advancing Fraud Detection and

Risk Management

In 2023, the global generative AI in

financial services market was valued

at approximately USD 1.67 billion and

is projected to grow at a compound annual

growth rate (CAGR) of 39.1% from

2024 to 2030. This significant growth

highlights the increasing adoption of

AI in areas such as fraud detection

and risk management. By generating

synthetic data, AI models can simulate

fraudulent activities, helping financial

institutions enhance their detection

systems. Mastercard, for instance,

utilises generative AI to analyse transaction

data from millions of merchants,

predicting and detecting compromised

cards to prevent fraud. As financial institutions

face an increasingly complex

threat landscape, the adoption of AI for

fraud prevention is becoming crucial

for securing financial transactions and

safeguarding customers’ assets.

Streamlining Financial Reporting

Generative AI is also revolutionising

the financial reporting process by automating

the creation of reports, ensuring

both accuracy and timeliness. Financial

institutions can now synthesise data

from multiple sources with minimal

human input, reducing manual effort

and minimising errors. A notable example

is an Asian financial institution

running a proof of concept to provide

prompt-to-report functionality for 2,000

analysts and users. This kind of automation

not only enhances productivity

but also ensures that financial reports

are delivered quickly, supporting better

decision-making. With the continuous

development of AI tools, the financial

reporting landscape will likely be fully

automated in the future, reducing the

risk of human error and improving

efficiency across the sector.

Optimising Portfolio Management

In the realm of asset management,

AI is providing innovative solutions to

optimise portfolio management. AI models

analyse historical financial data to

generate multiple investment scenarios,

assisting asset managers in identifying

the best asset and wealth management

strategies. One example is BlackRock’s

Aladdin platform, which employs AI and

machine learning to manage trillions

of dollars in assets. By integrating AI

into portfolio management, financial

institutions can make more informed

decisions and optimise their portfolios

based on a wider range of data. This

ability to evaluate various investment

scenarios allows for greater precision in

managing risk and improving financial

outcomes for investors.

Market Growth in the UAE

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is

positioning itself as a frontrunner in

the integration of generative artificial

intelligence within the financial services

sector. Current projections indicate

that the market size in the UAE will

attain USD 358.60 million by the year

2025, accompanied by an anticipated

annual growth rate of 41.53%. This

trajectory suggests a market volume

of USD 2,036.00 million by 2030. Such

accelerated growth reflects the UAE’s

dedication to the incorporation of cutting-edge

technologies into its financial

framework. The government’s emphasis

on both innovation and technology, in

conjunction with strategic initiatives

like the UAE AI Strategy 2031, has

fostered a conducive environment

for advancements driven by artificial

intelligence. As the nation continues to

adopt AI, the financial services sector

is expected to experience significant

advantages, including increased operational

efficiency, enhanced customer

experiences, and improved security

measures.

Challenges and Considerations

Despite the numerous advantages, the

integration of generative AI in financial

The Ministry adopts

a proactive approach

to provide advanced

financial solutions that

support various sectors,

especially the digital

economy and advanced

financial technologies.”

H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin

Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai,

Deputy Prime Minister, and the UAE’s

Minister of Finance

services presents several challenges.

One of the most pressing concerns is

ensuring data privacy and security.

As AI systems rely on vast amounts

of data, including sensitive customer

information, it is essential to implement

robust security measures to protect

against data breaches and misuse. Financial

institutions must also address

potential biases in AI algorithms to

ensure fairness and transparency in

decision-making. The UAE government

has recognised these challenges and

established the UAE AI and Blockchain

Council to recommend policies and

frameworks that foster an AI-friendly

ecosystem while maintaining high

ethical standards. Addressing these

challenges will be crucial to gaining

public trust and ensuring the long-term

success of AI in the financial sector.

Generative AI is set to revolutionise the

financial services sector in the UAE.


Energy News

TAQA Acquires UK Energy Platform Transmission Investment (TI)

Abu Dhabi National Energy

Company (TAQA) has acquired

full ownership of Transmission

Investment (TI), a leading UK-based

energy and utility investment platform.

The acquisition, approved under the

UK’s National Security and Investment

Act 2021, grants TAQA control of TI’s

AED15 billion (USD 4.1B) portfolio

comprising 11 offshore transmission

(OFTO) assets. TI, a major player in

connecting offshore wind farms to the

UK grid, has consistently succeeded in

winning and managing OFTO assets,

with a 40% success rate. Its consortium

was recently appointed the preferred

bidder for the Moray West OFTO. This

strategic move supports TAQA’s global

growth ambitions and strengthens its

role in the UK’s energy transition. TI

will now operate under TAQA Transmission,

further enhancing TAQA’s

technical capabilities and expanding

its footprint across Europe and international

transmission markets.

Abu Dhabi’s Masdar Concludes 100%

Acquisition of Terna Energy

Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company

(Masdar) has completed the

full acquisition of Terna Energy,

finalising its ownership through a mandatory

tender offer and squeeze-out for

the remaining 30 per cent at EUR 20

per share. This follows Masdar’s initial

70 per cent stake purchase from GEK

Terna SA and others in 2023 for an enterprise

value of EUR 3.2 billion (USD

3.56 billion). Terna Energy, a prominent

player in the renewable sector for

over 25 years, operates wind, solar,

biomass, and hydro projects across

Southeastern and Central Europe, including

the 680 MW Amfilochia pumped

hydro project. With 1,224 MW installed

and 197 MW under construction, the

company’s delisting from the Athens

Stock Exchange will facilitate fresh

capital inflows, reinforcing Greece’s

NECP and aligning with the EU’s 2050

net-zero goals.

ADNOC Distribution, Al Masaood Sign Key

Lubricants Deal

Abu Dhabi’s Al Masaood Group

has signed a strategic agreement

with ADNOC Distribution to

enhance its long-standing partnership

by supplying lubricants to Al Masaood’s

service centres. The collaboration spans

the Group’s key verticals, including its

automotive and industrial divisions,

reinforcing mutual commitment to

operational excellence. Al Masaood

stated that the agreement supports its

broader mission of contributing to the

national economy through enhanced

In-Country Value (ICV). Hani El Tannir,

CEO of Al Masaood Group Industrial,

noted that the partnership aligns with

the Group’s strategic goals and strengthens

prospects for future growth. Saber

Mohammed Al Ammari, Vice President

of Lubricant, Base Oil & Specialities at

ADNOC Distribution, expressed confidence

in the alliance, affirming the

supply of ADNOC Voyager lubricants

as part of their ongoing commercial

relationship with Al Masaood Group.

ADNOC Drilling

Secures $1.63 Bn Services

Deal

ADNOC Drilling has secured a fiveyear

Integrated Drilling Services

(IDS) contract worth USD 1.63B

from ADNOC Offshore. The award highlights

ADNOC Drilling’s robust long-term

contracting model, offering revenue stability

and visibility throughout the period.

CEO Abdulrahman Abdulla Al Seiari noted

that the win affirms the company’s strategic

focus and ADNOC Offshore’s confidence

in its capabilities. As the region’s leading

provider of advanced energy services,

ADNOC Drilling will deliver directional

drilling, drilling fluids, cementing, wireline

logging and tubular running services under

the agreement. The contract reinforces

the company’s commitment to operational

excellence and sustainable value

creation. It also supports the expansion

of its Oilfield Services segment, with its

economic contribution already factored

into the firm’s 2025–2026 guidance. The

deal strengthens ADNOC Drilling’s role

within the ADNOC Group and the broader

energy ecosystem.


US Energy Secretary

Chris Wright Meets UAE

Leaders at ADNOC HQ

US Energy Secretary Chris Wright

met with key UAE leaders in energy,

technology, and investment

at ADNOC HQ during his first official

overseas visit since taking office.

Hosted by H.E. Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al

Jaber, the meeting underscored the

deepening US-UAE ties and explored

avenues for enhanced collaboration.

Secretary Wright was accompanied

by Martina Strong, US Ambassador

to the UAE, and joined by H.E. Suhail

Al Mazrouei and senior leaders from

ADNOC, Masdar, Mubadala, AIQ,

and Presight. Discussions centred on

strengthening bilateral partnerships

and advancing shared energy goals.

Secretary Wright was also introduced

to XRG, ADNOC’s international investment

platform focused on the US

market, spanning gas, infrastructure,

chemicals, and low-carbon initiatives.

The visit marked a significant step in

aligning strategic energy ambitions

between the two nations.

UAE & U.S. to Strengthen Strategic Ties

Following Energy Secretary’s Visit

U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris

Wright has completed his inaugural

international visit to the

UAE since taking office, reaffirming

the robust and longstanding strategic

relationship between the two nations.

The visit underscored the pivotal role

energy plays in deepening UAE-U.S.

ties, with both countries reiterating

their mutual commitment to global

energy security and stable markets.

Amidst ongoing market volatility, both

sides highlighted the need to boost

operational efficiency and embrace

advanced technologies to ensure

cost-effective energy delivery. During

the two-day tour, Secretary Wright held

high-level discussions with prominent

UAE leaders, including Dr Sultan Ahmed

Al Jaber, Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei,

Mohamed Alsuwaidi, Mariam Almheiri,

and Yousef Al Otaiba. These engagements

covered areas such as energy,

infrastructure, trade and investment.

ADNOC Boosts Manufacturing, Attracts Local

and Foreign Investments

ADNOC remains at the forefront

of advancing the UAE’s manufacturing

sector by attracting

both local and foreign direct investment

through strategic commercial

agreements driven by its successful

In-Country Value (ICV) programme. At

the Annual Investment Meeting (AIM

Congress) 2025, ADNOC leadership,

including Dr. Saleh Al Hashimi, Ali

Foolathi, and Jasim Saeed, engaged

with global stakeholders to highlight

the company’s efforts in strengthening

industrial resilience. Dr. Al

Hashimi emphasised AIM’s role in

uniting investors, policymakers, and

entrepreneurs to shape strategies for

sustainable investment, reaffirming

ADNOC’s commitment to the UAE’s

economic agenda through the ICV

programme and the ‘Make It in the

Emirates’ initiative. Since its 2018

launch, the ICV programme has supported

industrial growth, enhanced

national workforce capabilities, and

helped establish new manufacturing

operations, contributing significantly

to the United Arab Emirates long-term

economic development.

Etihad Water And

Electricity Backs Zero

Bureaucracy Drive

Reinforcing its commitment to

customer-centric innovation,

Etihad Water and Electricity

(EtihadWE) is streamlining services

under the UAE’s Zero Government

Bureaucracy (ZGB) programme, with

nearly fifty initiatives targeting enhanced

operational efficiency. The

utility provider has restructured its

service connection process, reducing

approval steps from 13 to eight, cutting

waiting times for commercial and infrastructure

projects. Innovations such

as automated invoice issuance and

AI-powered approvals for Land Clearance

Certificates (LCC) and drawing

submissions have replaced manual

interventions. Strategic integration

with Civil Defence and Free Zones

further accelerates project timelines.

EtihadWE is also enhancing customer

experience through real-time smart

meter data, expanded digital payments

and AI-enabled customer support.


Polaroid Flip:

Retro Charm Meets

Modern Tech in

New Instant Camera

Polaroid has just dropped a nostalgia-packed treat,

the Polaroid Flip, a retro-inspired instant camera set

to launch globally on April 29, 2025. Blending vintage

design with smart photography upgrades, the Flip is

designed for analogue lovers looking to capture memories

with flair.

Expected Specs: Old-School Vibes with

New-Age Features

Design:

Clamshell-style body inspired by Polaroid’s

vintage models

Autofocus:

Sonar-based autofocus for sharp, accurate

shots

Flash:

Most powerful Polaroid flash yet - up to

14 feet

Charging:

USB-C rechargeable battery for convenience


Storage & Digital

Backup: What You Need

to Know

The Polaroid Flip stays true to its analogue roots - it

does not have built-in digital storage or support for

microSD cards. This means it’s strictly a print-only

camera, designed for those who appreciate the tangible

charm of instant photography.

Unlike hybrid models that store digital copies of every

photo, the Flip focuses solely on physical prints. Each

shot is unique, with no digital backup, enhancing the

nostalgic feel of shooting on film. If you’re looking for

instant cameras with digital save features, options

like the Polaroid Snap or Snap Touch may be more

suitable. But for purists who love the old-school magic

of real-time prints, the Polaroid Flip delivers an

authentic and focused instant experience.

Global Launch & UAE

Availability

Launch Date: April 29, 2025

UAE Availability: Expected online & in select

stores from mid-May

UAE Availabili Early access began April 15 for Polaroid

members, with global sales via Polaroid.com,

and regional availability following soon after.

Pros

Retro-chic clamshell design

Advanced focus & lighting assist

Performance Highlights

Dual-film compatibility (i-Type & 600)

App support for creative control

Sonar Autofocus - Sharp, accurate results every time

App Features - Timer, manual exposure, double

exposure

Strong Flash - Bright, controlled lighting for all

conditions

No Video Mode - Strictly photo-only

Viewfinder Offset - Might confuse first-time users

Cons

Only 8 shots per film pack

Bulkier than other compact cameras

Shutter button placement may take getting

used to

Premium price: $199.99 / AED 735

Final Thoughts

The Polaroid Flip is more than just a camera, it’s a love letter to analogue photography, reimagined for today’s creative

explorers. With its stylish retro design, modern tech touches, and a purist print-only approach, it’s perfect for those who

crave the charm of physical photos and the joy of slowing down to capture life’s best moments.


Investment


Best investment options for retail investors to maximise returns.

Top Investment

Opportunities for

Retail Investors in

2025

Exploring Profitable Investment

Avenues for Retail Investors Seeking

Growth and Stability.

Retail investors in the UAE have a range

of promising investment opportunities in

2025, driven by economic diversification

and technological advancements. With

sectors like real estate, fintech, and renewable

energy showing strong potential,

investors can explore stocks, ETFs, and

digital assets to maximise returns. The

UAE’s supportive regulatory framework

further enhances investment security.

Emerging trends in sustainable finance

and AI-driven portfolios also present

lucrative prospects. As global markets

evolve, strategic investments in these highgrowth

sectors can provide stability and

long-term gains. Retail investors should

assess risks, stay informed, and leverage

expert insights to capitalise on the best

opportunities available this year.


The UAE’s real estate sector has

demonstrated remarkable resilience

and growth, particularly in

Dubai and Abu Dhabi. As of February

2025, Dubai’s property market has experienced

a 75% surge in average prices

since February 2021, reaching AED

1,750 ($476.50) per square foot. This

upward trajectory is attributed to economic

resilience, liberalised visa policies,

and population growth. However,

investors should exercise caution due

to the market’s historical volatility and

the potential for increased supply to

temper future price increases.

Real Estate: A Booming Investment

Opportunity

Dubai’s luxury real estate market

is thriving, with sales of properties

valued at over $10 million surging by

92% year-on-year in 2024. The UAE’s

Golden Visa programme, allowing

property investors to obtain long-term

residency, has further boosted foreign

investment. Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi’s

residential market has recorded a 12%

annual growth in average sales prices.

Rental yields in Dubai remain attractive,

averaging 6.5%, significantly higher than

global investment hubs like London and

New York. However, investors should

be mindful of market fluctuations and

regulatory changes that may influence

future trends.

Renewable Energy: Harnessing

Sustainable Growth

The Middle East is rapidly becoming

a significant player in the renewable

energy market, second only to China in

growth rate. The UAE has announced

plans to build a $6 billion, 5-gigawatt

solar plant with 19GWh of battery

storage, aiming to deliver a constant

power output of 1GW. Additionally,

Masdar, the UAE’s leading renewable

energy company, plans to increase its

wind and solar capacity to 100 gigawatts

by 2030, positioning itself among the

world’s largest renewable energy companies.

The UAE is also focusing on

green hydrogen production, to capture

a 25% share of the global hydrogen

market by 2030. These developments

present substantial opportunities for

investors interested in sustainable

energy projects.

Stock Market: Investor Confidence

and Growth Prospects

Investor sentiment towards the UAE

stock market is notably optimistic. A

survey conducted by eToro revealed that

80% of UAE retail investors anticipate

growth in their portfolios within the

next year. This confidence is reflected

in the Dubai Financial Market’s main

index, which reached 5,362 points in

February 2025, its highest level since

May 2014. Sectors such as real estate,

technology, and banking are viewed

as particularly promising, with 53% of

investors favouring real estate and construction,

43% technology and telecoms,

and 42% banking and financial services.

Abu Dhabi’s stock market has also

experienced significant gains, with the

Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange index

growing by 18% in 2024. Additionally,

the UAE government’s push for IPOs,

including the anticipated listing of

state-owned companies, is expected

to drive further market expansion.

Digital Assets: Embracing the Crypto

Revolution

The UAE is at the forefront of cryptocurrency

adoption in the Middle East.

As of April 2024, 72% of local users

have invested in Bitcoin, reflecting the

nation’s progressive stance on digital

assets. Favourable regulations and the

approval of Bitcoin ETFs have contributed

to this surge. Furthermore, 81%

of UAE retail investors plan to invest

in crypto assets in the first quarter of

2025, indicating sustained enthusiasm

for this asset class. The Dubai Virtual

Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA)

continues to strengthen regulations,

attracting global crypto firms such as

Binance and Crypto.com to establish

regional headquarters in the UAE. The

total market capitalisation of cryptocurrencies

in the UAE reached $120

billion in 2024, demonstrating strong

institutional and retail adoption. While

the crypto market offers high returns,

it is also characterised by significant

volatility; thus, investors should approach

it with due diligence.

Private Equity and Venture Capital:

Fueling Start-Up Growth

Private equity and venture capital

investments in the UAE have gained

momentum, with start-ups in fintech,

e-commerce, and AI-driven solutions

receiving substantial funding. The

UAE saw a record-breaking $3.9 billion

in venture capital investments

in 2024, marking a 35% increase from

the previous year. The government’s

supportive policies, including funding

initiatives and tax incentives, have

fostered a thriving start-up ecosystem.

Prominent venture capital firms such

as Shorooq Partners and Middle East

Venture Partners are actively investing

in high-growth potential businesses.

Investors seeking exposure to emerging

technologies and innovative business

models may find private equity a lucrative

option.

Gold and Commodities: A Safe-Haven

Asset

Gold remains a preferred asset for UAE

investors, with Dubai’s Gold Souk continuing

to attract global buyers. In 2024,

the UAE’s gold trade volume reached

$45 billion, with gold prices averaging

$2,250 per ounce. The demand for goldbacked

financial products, such as gold

ETFs, has also grown significantly.

Additionally, commodities such as oil

and aluminium have remained strong

investment choices, with the UAE

maintaining its position as one of the

world’s top oil producers. As inflation

concerns persist globally, investing

in precious metals and commodities

serves as a hedge against economic

uncertainties.

The UAE’s investment landscape in

2025 offers a diverse array of opportunities

for retail investors, spanning

real estate, renewable energy, stock

markets, digital assets, private equity,

and commodities. The nation’s robust

economic policies, commitment

to diversification, and embrace of

technological advancements create

a conducive environment for investment.

However, investors are advised

to conduct thorough research, assess

risk tolerance, and consider market

dynamics before making investment

decisions. Diversifying across multiple

sectors can also help mitigate risks and

enhance potential returns in this vibrant

market. With the UAE continuing to

position itself as a global investment

hub, retail investors have the potential

to capitalise on the country’s economic

growth and innovation-driven future.

Moreover, government-led initiatives

have made it easier than ever for individuals

to thrive in the market. Fintech

platforms are also simplifying access to

diverse asset classes, making investing

more inclusive and efficient.


Travel News

Sheikh Hamdan Visits Emirates Catering Facility

On April 19, 2025, Sheikh Hamdan

bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al

Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai

and Chairman of the Executive Council,

visited the Emirates Flight Catering

facility at Dubai International Airport.

He was accompanied by Sheikh Ahmed

bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and

CEO of Emirates Airline and Group. The

tour highlighted the scale and technological

innovation of the facility, which

produces over 250,000 meals daily and

serves more than 100 airline partners.

CEO Shahreyar Nawabi outlined the

company’s integration of smart systems

and eco-conscious practices to

reduce waste and enhance efficiency.

Sheikh Hamdan commended the facility’s

contribution to global aviation

services, its sustainability leadership,

and its alignment with Dubai’s broader

vision for excellence in logistics and

hospitality. The visit also explored

plans for future expansion to support

increasing international travel.

Dubai’s Hospitality Sector

Grows with Hotel Local

Launch

Dubai’s hospitality scene continues

to evolve with the launch of

Hotel Local by The First Group

in collaboration with US-based Hoque

Global. Located in the heart of Jumeirah

Village Triangle (JVT), the 579-room

hotel is designed to cater to modern

travellers seeking immersive experiences

rooted in community engagement.

The property combines contemporary

design with local cultural elements to

foster a welcoming, social atmosphere.

Rob Burns, CEO of The First Group,

noted that the hotel represents a new

direction for Dubai’s mid-market hospitality,

providing a lifestyle-oriented

space where guests can feel at home

and interact with the neighbourhood.

Mike Hoque, Founder of Hoque Global,

emphasised the project’s mission

to champion local communities and

educational opportunities. The launch

aligns with Dubai’s strategic vision to

diversify its tourism offerings and create

more meaningful, locally-inspired guest

experiences that appeal to international

visitors and residents alike.

Celestyal Cruises Signs Three-Year Deal with

Abu Dhabi

Celestyal Cruises has formalised

a three-year partnership with

the Department of Culture and

Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi),

marking a significant step in the

emirate’s growing appeal as a cruise

destination. The agreement, effective

from December 2025 through March

2028, will see two of Celestyal’s ships

making three weekly calls to Abu Dhabi

during the winter cruise season. As

part of the collaboration, nine exclusive

shore excursions will be offered

to passengers, ranging from cultural

heritage tours and desert safaris to

theme park adventures and city sightseeing.

Lee Haslett, Chief Commercial

Officer at Celestyal, expressed strong

support for the UAE’s commitment to

cruise tourism, stating that the partnership

would open new horizons for

experiential travel in the Arabian Gulf.

The initiative aligns with Abu Dhabi’s

tourism strategy to attract 24 million

visitors by 2030 and reinforce its status

as a world-class cultural and leisure

destination.

Abu Dhabi Targets $24.5bn Tourism GDP by 2030

Abu Dhabi aims to boost its

tourism sector’s contribution to

AED 90 billion (USD 24.5 billion)

in non-oil GDP by 2030, according to

Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman

of the Department of Culture and

Tourism - Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi).

The sector is projected to grow by 13%

in 2025, reaching AED 62 billion (USD

16.9 billion). In the first quarter of 2025,

international overnight hotel guests rose

by 4% year-on-year, with India, China,

Russia, and the UK ranking among the

top source markets. Hotel occupancy

reached 79% across the emirate and 82%

in Abu Dhabi city. Cultural attractions

such as teamLab Phenomena, Louvre

Abu Dhabi, and the upcoming Zayed

National Museum and Natural History

Museum are key drivers in Abu Dhabi’s

strategy to position itself as a premier

global cultural and tourism destination.


Emirates Anticipated 300K Travellers at Dubai T3 Over Easter Weekend

Emirates has issued a travel advisory

for passengers departing

from Dubai’s Terminal 3 between

18–21 April, with over 300,000 individuals

expected to travel during this

peak period. The airline has advised

travellers to reach the airport well ahead

of their departure time and ensure all

necessary documents are to avoid delays

due to expected high footfall. To

ease congestion and enhance the travel

experience, Emirates has outlined a

variety of check-in options available

to passengers. Anticipating a surge in

Easter weekend traffic at Terminal 3,

the airline encourages passengers to

check in online via emirates.com or

the Emirates App up to 48 hours before

their flight, enabling access to a digital

boarding pass. Passengers who prefer

checking in at the airport can do so

at Terminal 3 counters, which open

24 hours before departure, except for

flights to the U.S., where counters open

12 hours before take-off.

Jumeirah Marsa Al

Arab Redefines Luxury

Hospitality in Dubai

Jumeirah Group has officially

opened its flagship property,

Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, located

beside the iconic Burj Al Arab and

Jumeirah Beach Hotel. Designed

by renowned architect Shaun Killa,

the ultra-luxury resort features 386

sea-facing rooms and suites, along

with private residences, a superyacht

marina, and a three-floor wellness and

spa centre. The Talise Spa introduces

advanced treatments such as Cryotherapy,

ChromoSpace light therapy,

and a Hyperbaric Oxygen Chamber. A

dedicated women-only floor and stateof-the-art

fitness facilities add to its

appeal. With 11 signature restaurants

and a strong focus on sustainability,

including self-shading terraces and

greywater recycling, the property reflects

Jumeirah’s Mission 2030 strategy

to double its portfolio.

Etihad Launches Summer Sale with Up To 30% Off

Etihad Airways has unveiled its

highly anticipated 2025 summer

sale, offering travellers discounts

of up to 30% across its global network.

The limited-time offer is available for

bookings made until April 18, 2025, for

travel between May 1 and September

30, 2025. This promotion includes both

Economy and Business Class fares to

destinations across Europe, Asia, and

the Americas, including the airline’s

upcoming routes to Prague and Warsaw

launching in June. Arik De, Chief Revenue

and Commercial Officer at Etihad, said

the campaign aims to make international

travel more affordable and enjoyable

for everyone this summer. In addition

to discounted fares, customers booking

through the official Etihad website can

benefit from the Abu Dhabi Stopover

Programme, which provides up to two

complimentary nights at participating

premium hotels in Abu Dhabi. The initiative

reinforces Etihad’s broader goal

of enhancing passenger experiences and

promoting Abu Dhabi as a top-tier transit

and tourism hub.

Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat Offers

Mediterranean Luxury

Positioned along the coastline between

Abu Dhabi and Dubai, the

Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi

Retreat delivers a Mediterranean-inspired

escape in Ghantoot. With its whitewashed

Cycladic architecture and Aegean design,

the boutique resort offers just 22 exclusive

rooms, each providing uninterrupted sea

views and exceptional privacy. Guests

can enjoy the 35-metre infinity pool, a

private cinema, and personalised services

tailored for tranquil luxury. The

retreat’s signature restaurant, Thalassa,

offers Greek and Aegean cuisine, with

an emphasis on locally sourced seafood

and farm-fresh produce. Designed for

sophisticated travellers seeking relaxation

without venturing far from the city, the

resort merges seclusion with accessibility.

It marks another addition to Abu

Dhabi’s growing portfolio of premium,

experience-driven hospitality offerings

that blend culture, nature, and wellness.


Taxation


UAE family foundations benefit from tax exemptions and legal security.

UAE Corporate Tax:

What it Means for

Foundations and

Family Offices

Tax Advantages and Legal Framework

Strengthening Family Wealth

Management in the UAE.

The UAE has emerged as a leading jurisdiction

for Family Foundations, offering a

favourable tax environment, strong legal

protections, and strategic advantages for

wealth management. With significant tax

exemptions and a well-established regulatory

framework, the country provides

an ideal setting for families seeking to

preserve and grow their assets across

generations. Its global connectivity and

investor-friendly policies make it an attractive

hub for high-net-worth individuals.

However, while these benefits are substantial,

families must ensure strict compliance

with evolving legal requirements to fully

leverage the UAE’s advantages. Proper

structuring, and regulatory adherence are

essential in maintaining financial security

and optimising tax efficiencies.


Family foundations in the UAE

must adapt their wealth management

strategies following the

introduction of Corporate Tax (CT).

Traditionally used for succession planning

and asset protection, these entities

now face new tax implications

that could affect their structures and

financial planning. Compliance with

the CT framework requires reassessing

asset allocations, governance models,

and potential tax liabilities. Strategic

adjustments, such as optimising legal

structures and exploring exemptions,

will be essential to maintaining financial

efficiency. As the UAE’s tax landscape

evolves, family foundations must

balance regulatory adherence with

long-term wealth preservation to sustain

their financial legacies effectively.

The Importance of Transparency

A key benefit for UAE foundations

is their ability to qualify as fiscally

transparent entities, exempting the

foundation itself from the UAE’s CT.

Instead, the tax responsibility transfers

to the beneficiaries who receive income/

benefit from the foundation’s assets.

This fiscal transparency is perfectly

aligned with the core objectives of

family foundations, which typically

focus on managing personal wealth for

legitimate purposes such as succession

planning and asset protection.

However, this transparency is conditional

and requires careful compliance.

To qualify, the foundation must be

established with the primary aim of

benefiting identifiable individuals or

entities serving the public good, rather

than merely serving as a vehicle for tax

evasion. Furthermore, the foundation

must refrain from engaging in what

is classified as “business activities”

under the UAE CT Law. Adhering to

these stipulations ensures that the

foundation fulfils its intended role and

remains clear of potential exploitation

in tax avoidance strategies.

Navigating the Fiscal Landscape

The fiscal transparency of a qualified

family foundation shifts the tax responsibility

directly to the beneficiaries. This

structure is advantageous as income

such as personal investment returns

and real estate rentals typically falls

outside the scope of UAE CT, thanks

to specific exclusions. However, the

tax implications for beneficiaries hinge

significantly on their tax residency

status. UAE residents benefit from

minimal tax consequences, while non-

UAE residents must carefully assess

and address potential tax liabilities

in their respective home countries,

necessitating a thorough tax obligation

analysis.

Family Foundations

UAE foundations are independent

juridical persons with separate legal

personalities and would therefore

prima facie be subject to the Federal

Decree-Law No. 47 of 2022 on the Taxation

of Corporations and Businesses

(“CIT Law”) in their own right. However,

certain types of foundations, such as

family foundations, may benefit from

an exemption and their income not

being subject to the corporate tax in

the UAE.

A ‘Family Foundation’ is defined

under the CIT Law as a foundation,

trust or similar entity used to protect

and manage the assets and wealth

of an individual or family. The main

activity consists of receiving, holding,

investing, disbursing, or otherwise

managing funds and assets associated

with savings or investments for the

interest of individual beneficiaries

or to achieve a charitable purpose.

Such activities would typically not

constitute a ‘business’ or ‘commercial

activity’ under the CIT Law if such

activities were undertaken directly

by the founder, settlor, beneficiary or

any other natural person.

Tax Exemption for Family

Foundations

Under art. 17 of CIT law, a Family

Foundation can make an application

to the Federal Tax Authority (“FTA”)

to be treated as an unincorporated

partnership and, therefore, be treated

as tax transparent under the CIT law

if certain conditions are met such as:

• The Family Foundation is established

for the benefit of natural persons

(identifiable or unidentifiable), the

public, or both.

• The principal activity of the family

foundation is to receive, hold, invest,

and disburse, i.e., manage assets or

funds associated with savings or

investments.

• The family foundation is not engaged

in any activity that would be considered

a business or business activity

UAE’s Corporate Tax

regime flexibility to

provide certainty to

taxable persons and

sustain confidence in

the UAE’s competitive

business environment.”

H.E. Younis Haji Al Khoori, Undersecretary

of the UAE Ministry of Finance

under the CIT Law had the activity

been undertaken, or its assets been

held, directly by its founder, settlor,

or any of its beneficiaries.

• The family foundation’s primary

or fundamental objective is not to

avoid corporate tax.

Assuming a Family Foundation is

eligible to be treated as tax transparent,

the exemption does not apply automatically.

An application to the FTA

is necessary. If approved by FTA, the

Family Foundation shall be treated as

tax transparent, the entity will not be

considered as a taxable person under

the CIT Law and the share of income

attributed to the natural persons as

beneficiaries would not constitute

taxable income for the natural persons

if it is not resulting from an activity to

be considered as a business or business

activity under the CIT law. Furthermore,

the UAE does not impose personal

wealth tax, or inheritance tax on family

foundations or natural persons.


Healthcare News

Burjeel Holdings, Paige Unite to Transform Cancer Diagnostics

Burjeel Holdings has partnered with

the U.S.-based AI firm Paige to

enhance cancer diagnostics across

the Middle East and North Africa (MENA)

region. This collaboration aims to address

the global shortage of pathologists by

integrating Paige’s advanced AI-powered

pathology tools into Burjeel’s healthcare

network. These tools, including FDA-designated

applications like Paige Prostate

Detect and Paige Breast Lymph Node,

are designed to improve the speed and

accuracy of cancer diagnoses. Additionally,

the deployment of Paige OmniScreen will

enable comprehensive screening of over

1,600 molecular biomarkers, facilitating

more personalised treatment plans. This

initiative underscores Burjeel’s commitment

to leveraging cutting-edge technology

to provide equitable and efficient

cancer care, particularly in underserved

communities within emerging markets.

This signifies a step towards advancing

diagnostics and improving patient outcomes

across the region.

Burjeel and Hippocratic

AI Partner to Boost

GenAI Healthcare

Solutions

Burjeel Holdings has entered

a strategic partnership with

Hippocratic AI, the pioneer behind

the first safety-focused generative AI

healthcare agents, to enhance healthcare

delivery across its facilities in the UAE

and Oman. Launched during Abu Dhabi

Global Healthcare Week, the collaboration

will deploy Hippocratic AI’s advanced,

patient-facing agents for non-diagnostic

clinical tasks in hospitals, medical centres,

and physiotherapy clinics. The initiative

aims to elevate patient engagement by

offering safe, scalable, and empathetic

AI-powered clinical conversations. This

aligns with Burjeel Holdings’ commitment

to integrating advanced technology while

preserving a human-centric approach.

Commenting on the development, John

Sunil, Group CEO of Burjeel Holdings,

stated that the partnership reflects the

organisation’s vision to blend cuttingedge

technology with personalised care,

improving patient experience, efficiency,

and overall outcomes through AI-driven

solutions.

UAE Healthcare Sector Advances with Rare Surgeries

and Innovative Treatments

The UAE’s healthcare sector is

making significant strides by

embracing cutting-edge medical

procedures and technologies. Cleveland

Clinic Abu Dhabi recently performed

a pioneering robotic rib resection and

venolysis procedure to treat a rare

condition known as venous thoracic

outlet syndrome, affecting one to two

individuals per 100,000. In another

case, the same institution successfully

conducted advanced skull base surgery

to save a patient’s vision threatened by

invasive fungal sinusitis. Furthermore,

the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi

introduced CASGEVY, the first CRISPR/

Cas9 gene-editing therapy in the UAE,

offering innovative treatment for patients

with sickle cell disease and transfusion-dependent

beta-thalassemia.

These advancements underscore the

UAE’s commitment to integrating innovative

medical solutions, enhancing

patient care, and positioning itself as a

leader in global healthcare innovation.

Dubai Derma 2024 Concludes with AED 2.4

Billion in Business Deals

The 23rd edition of Dubai Derma,

held in March 2024, concluded

with record-breaking business

deals worth AED 2.4 billion (USD

650 million), strengthening the UAE’s

position as a premier destination for

dermatology and aesthetic medicine.

The three-day event welcomed over

25,000 participants from 112 countries,

showcasing cutting-edge innovations in

AI-powered diagnostics, regenerative

treatments such as exosome therapy, and

advanced care for skin conditions like

vitiligo and psoriasis. A standout moment

was the unveiling of a revolutionary skin

renewal device developed in the United

States. With a focus on holistic care,

the event promoted natural beauty and

mental wellness, alongside workshops

and competitions aimed at nurturing

young medical talent. Featuring strong

international participation, including

South Korea’s skincare technology,

Dubai Derma once again demonstrated

its growing influence in global medical

and economic landscapes.


Dubai Health Partners with Press Ganey to Transform Patient Experience

Dubai Health has formed a strategic

partnership with U.S.-

based healthcare performance

improvement firm Press Ganey to

revolutionise patient experience across

its medical facilities. The collaboration

will implement a real-time feedback

system that captures patient insights

throughout their care journey, enabling

healthcare providers to identify gaps,

address concerns promptly, and drive

continuous service improvement. By

analysing data on patient sentiment

and outcomes, Dubai Health aims to

foster a more transparent, accountable,

and patient-centric environment. This

initiative not only empowers patients

to voice their experiences but also

positions Dubai at the forefront of

value-based healthcare in the region.

It aligns with the emirate’s broader

strategy to deliver world-class medical

services, improve healthcare quality, and

ensure that innovation remains central

to patient care delivery and operational

performance across the sector.

Aster Hospital Launches

UAE’s First ROSA Robotic

Orthopaedic Centre

Aster Hospital, Mankhool, has

unveiled its new Robotic Orthopaedic

Centre featuring the

advanced ROSA® Robotic Knee Joint

Replacement System, a first for the

UAE. This state-of-the-art technology

enhances surgical precision, from

preoperative planning through to execution,

using real-time data and 3D

imaging to adapt to individual patient

anatomy. By ensuring accurate bone

preparation and implant positioning,

ROSA® aims to reduce surgical errors,

minimise post-operative complications,

and promote faster recovery. The system

empowers surgeons to perform complex

procedures with greater confidence

and predictability. This innovation

underlines Aster’s commitment to

bringing the latest medical technologies

to the region, enhancing patient

outcomes and raising the standard of

orthopaedic care. The launch reflects

the UAE’s growing position as a hub

for advanced medical treatments and

robotic-assisted surgeries.

UAE Ranks among Global Leaders for Healthcare

Excellence

The UAE has achieved global

recognition for its healthcare

system, ranking first worldwide

for the number of accredited healthcare

facilities. The nation now stands

among the top 10 countries globally

across 21 health indicators and holds

20th place globally for healthcare

quality. This advancement is attributed

to strategic investments, including

allocating AED 5.745 billion, 8% of

the federal budget, to healthcare and

community prevention services for

the 2025 fiscal year. Additionally, the

UAE’s healthcare spending is projected

to reach AED 151 billion by 2029,

with a compound annual growth rate

of 6.7%. These developments reflect

the nation’s commitment to enhancing

healthcare infrastructure, embracing

digital transformation, and expanding

its medical tourism sector, positioning

the UAE as a leader in global healthcare

excellence.

Abu Dhabi Signs MoU to Establish Advanced Life

Sciences Labs in Masdar City

In April 2025, the Department of

Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) and the

Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO)

signed a Memorandum of Understanding

with Masdar City to develop advanced

health and life sciences laboratories.

This initiative, part of the Health,

Endurance, Longevity, and Medicine

(HELM) cluster launched during Abu

Dhabi Global Health Week 2025, aims to

create a cutting-edge infrastructure supporting

researchers, entrepreneurs, and

biotech startups. The labs will feature

state-of-the-art technologies to foster

scientific innovation and collaboration.

The agreement also includes talent

development programs, internships,

and partnerships with pharmaceutical

and biotech companies to promote

industry-sponsored research and clinical

trials. ADIO will facilitate global

investment partnerships to support

high-impact scientific breakthroughs,

aligning with Abu Dhabi’s vision to

become a global hub for life sciences

and healthcare innovation.


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