The Technology Express Magazine | Edition: June 2025

COVER

GROW YOUR
BUSINESS
We make Short / Long Term
Investments in Growing Businesses
info@wasayainvestments.com
www.wasayainvestments.com

EDITORIAL
Tanishqa Kambli (Editorial Assistant)
tan@mcfillmedia.com
DESIGN
Hassan Khan, hassan@mcfillmedia.com
Nauman Khan, nauman@mcfillmedia.com
EDITOR’S
NOTE
STUDIO AND PRODUCTION
Mommina Asif, mommina@mcfillmedia.com
COMMERCIAL (EVENTS & ADVERTISING)
Sakshi Lalwani
+971 58 596 6036, sakshi@mcfillmedia.com
Abhinay Bhartiya
+971 58 596 4066, abhinay@mcfillmedia.com
PARTNERSHIPS
Khwahish Waghnani, khwahish@mcfillmedia.com
DISTRIBUTION
Ashish Kumar, ashish@mcfillmedia.com
GENERAL
Advertisement, advertise@thetechnologyexpress.com
Press Release, feature@thetechnologyexpress.com
News, news@thetechnologyexpress.com
Partnerships, partnerships@thetechnologyexpress.com
Public Relations, pr@thetechnologyexpress.com
The Publisher has taken all reasonable steps to ensure the accuracy of the
content at the time of publication. However, The Publisher accepts no
liability for any errors, omissions, or inaccuracies within this publication.
The views and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of The
Publisher. Readers are encouraged to seek professional advice before acting
on any information provided, as the content is for general reference and may
not apply to individual circumstances. All trademarks, logos, and intellectual
property rights featured in this publication are acknowledged and remain the
property of their respective owners. No part of this publication may be
reproduced, stored, or transmitted in any form without the prior written
consent of The Publisher. All rights reserved.
“The cities of the future will not be built with concrete alone, but
with code, connectivity, and collaboration.”
–-- Dr. Mahmoud AlBurai, CIO, Dubai Land Department
As the UAE’s real estate and construction sectors
undergo rapid digital transformation, this edition of
The Technology Express examines how technology is
reengineering one of the nation’s most vital industries.
Our cover story offers deep insight into tokenisation’s
upcoming transformation of the UAE’s real estate sector.
We also unveil our latest Power List: The Top 50 Fintech
Leaders in the UAE, a sharp look at the visionaries shaping
digital finance, compliance innovation, and cross-sector
infrastructure. Featured articles cover tokenised real-world
assets, AI-powered planning tools streamlining permits, and
digital twins reshaping how cities are visualised before a
single brick is laid.
Further inside, we explore climate-resilient design,
green data centres, PropTech investment trends, and
XR’s role in modern construction workflows. Blockchain’s
role in seamless property transactions, Construction 4.0’s
automation edge, and Workspace 2025’s smart environments
are also unpacked. Beyond industry features, our Launch
Express covers the Nothing Phone 3A and Apple’s new AI
smart home hub. Startup Spotlights include SmartCrowd
and ProTenders, while Visionary Spotlights feature leaders
from Dubai Municipality, DLD, SEDD, and the Ministry of
Foreign Trade.
In a sector long defined by scale, it’s now precision,
intelligence, and interoperability that are driving the next
chapter of growth. This edition is a reflection of how future
of real estate in the Emirates is being engineered, tokenised,
and intelligently networked in real time.
MCFILL MEDIA &
PUBLISHING GROUP

TECH
36
Drive to the Future
Ferrari 296 Spreciale
12
42
Powerlist
Top 50 Fintech Leaders in the UAE
Mirror Cities:
How Digital Twins are Transforming
Real Estate Planning
16
Tokenizing Real Estate:
Transforming UAE Property Ownership

84
Startup Spotlight
Huspy
86
78
Workspace 2025:
Tech-Enabled Spaces for the New
Way We Work
Tech Unwind
Xiaomi 15 Ultra
80
The Ultimate PropTech Guide for
2025:
How Technology is Revolutionising
Real Estate and Construction
INSIDE

AI-Powered Planning
AI-POWERED URBAN
PLANNING:
AUTOMATING BUILDING PERMITS
IN GULF CITIES
Gulf cities like Abu Dhabi and Dubai are pioneering AI-driven
permit systems to handle surging development. New
AI-enabled BIM platforms automatically convert 2D plans
into 3D models and run code-compliance checks, while
chatbots guide applicants on regulations. The result is
faster approvals, fewer errors, and more transparent urban
planning.
As Gulf megacities continue their
rapid expansion, traditional building
permit processes are struggling
to keep pace. Complex regulations for
safety, sustainability, and design require
meticulous enforcement, but manual
plan reviews can take weeks, delaying
projects and increasing costs. For cities
like Abu Dhabi and Dubai, where urban
growth is both a strategic priority and
a competitive differentiator, streamlining
approvals has become a critical
challenge.
Recognizing these bottlenecks,
UAE authorities are turning to artificial
intelligence to reimagine the permit-
8 \ June 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
ting journey. Abu Dhabi’s Department
of Municipalities and Transport (DMT)
recently launched a suite of advanced
AI solutions, including an AI-enabled
Building Information Modeling (BIM) and
Automated Plan Review System (APRS),
as well as a virtual assistant chatbot for
permit applicants.
AI-Driven BIM and Automated Plan
Review
The core of Abu Dhabi’s new approach
is the integration of AI with BIM technology.
Consultants and architects can
now submit 2D CAD drawings, which
the system automatically converts into
detailed 3D models. These models are
then run through AI algorithms that check
for compliance with Abu Dhabi’s building
codes, flagging issues such as missing
safety features or non-compliant materials
before human review even begins.
This automation accelerates approvals
and reduces the risk of human oversight.
By catching errors early, the system
helps ensure that new buildings meet
all technical standards from the outset,
supporting both safety and sustainability
goals.
Complementing the automated review
is a state-of-the-art AI chatbot, available
around the clock and in multiple languages.
This virtual assistant provides instant
access to building codes, regulations,
and submission checklists, guiding users
through the permit process and answering
regulatory queries in real time. For
architects, engineers, and consultants,
this means less time spent searching
through legal documents and more consistent,
accurate information.
Dubai’s Digital Leap: Enhancing User
Experience
Dubai Municipality has also made significant
strides by upgrading its online
Building Permits (BPs) app. The platform
now features e-payments, a land-plot
dashboard, and instant access to regulations.
While Dubai’s current focus is on
digitization and user experience, these
enhancements lay the groundwork for
deeper AI integration into compliance
and review processes in the near future.
For developers and planners, the impact
of these AI tools is tangible:
1. Faster Approvals: Automated plan
checks and instant code guidance shorten
project timelines, reducing carrying
This strategic integration
closely aligns with
DMT’s Smart City roadmap,
emphasising our
steadfast dedication
to pioneering a future
where technology and
urban development
are seamlessly intertwined.”
H.E. Dr. Omar Al Shaiba,
Executive Director of the Information
Technology Affairs Sector at
Department of Municipalities and
Transportation
costs and enabling quicker market entry.
2. Reduced Risk: Consistent, automated
enforcement of regulations minimizes
the chance that critical safety or sustainability
features are missed.
3. Cost Savings: By catching compliance
issues early, developers avoid costly
redesigns or construction delays.
4. Transparency and Predictability:
Real-time feedback and clear digital
records make the permitting process
more transparent for all stakeholders.
His Excellency Hamad Al Mutawa,
Executive Director of the Planning and
Infrastructure Sector at DMT, highlights
the broader vision: “The introduction of
these AI-enabled solutions marks a substantial
stride in our ongoing commitment
to embrace intelligent technologies that
elevate the standard of our services.
By leveraging AI technology, we aim to
provide prompt, accurate, and accessible
support to facilitate the development
process in Abu Dhabi. As we continue
to innovate, we strengthen Abu Dhabi’s
position as a leading destination for progressive
urban development solutions.”
Aligning with National AI and Smart
City Strategies
These urban planning innovations are
not isolated efforts. The UAE’s National
AI Strategy 2031 explicitly targets mature
sectors like construction for AI deployment,
aiming to boost economic growth
and position the country as a global AI
leader. Abu Dhabi’s digital government
strategy, which envisions the emirate
as the world’s first fully AI-native government
by 2027, commits over AED 13
billion to AI-driven transformation across
public services, including permitting.
As H.E. Ahmed Hisham Al Kuttab, Chairman
of the Department of Government
Enablement – Abu Dhabi, notes: “The Abu
Dhabi Government Digital Strategy 2025-
2027 reflects our leadership’s vision of
being an AI-native government, seamlessly
integrating AI across all government
systems for a future that is proactive,
agile and fully technology-enabled. By
incorporating AI, cloud technologies,
and data-driven insights into our government’s
DNA, we will transform public
service delivery, optimise government
operations, and drive sustainable economic
growth.”
By integrating AI into urban planning,
GCC governments are transforming building-permit
workflows from manual bureaucracy
into automated intelligence.
For senior executives in real estate and
construction, this trend offers both opportunities
and imperatives. Companies
that adopt compatible digital processes
and BIM standards will gain speed and
predictability, while consultants and
service providers must upskill to work
with these new systems.
Ultimately, AI-powered permitting
promises higher throughput, sharper
code enforcement, and a better developer
experience, all of which strengthen
the region’s goal of rapid, yet orderly,
urban growth.
June 2025 / 9

AI NEWS
OpenAI to help UAE build Massive Data Center,
Bloomberg reports
OpenAI is reportedly in talks to
support a massive 5GW data
center in Abu Dhabi, which
could become one of the world’s
largest. Backed by Microsoft, the
move aligns with the UAE–U.S. pact
to deepen AI collaboration and create
the largest AI campus outside the U.S.
If finalized, OpenAI would serve as a
key tenant, marking a major step in expanding
its global infrastructure. The
project underscores the UAE’s rising
role in digital innovation and may attract
further U.S. tech investment.
What’s New about
Nova Premier? Amazon’s
Most Capable AI
Model Yet
Amazon has launched Nova Premier,
its most advanced model
in the Nova series, available on
Bedrock. With a 1 million-token context
window, it handles text, images, and
video (not audio) and excels in planning
and contextual understanding. Though it
trails Gemini 2.5 Pro in coding, it leads in
knowledge retrieval. Priced competitively,
Nova Premier is pitched as a “teacher”
model for training smaller AIs.
Flow: The Next Frontier
in AI-Powered
Filmmaking
Google has launched Flow, an AI
filmmaking platform combining
its Veo, Imagen, and Gemini
models. Flow lets users create cinematic
scenes from simple prompts,
control camera movement, and maintain
visual consistency. Its intuitive
interface supports asset reuse and
natural language input. Co-developed
with filmmakers, Flow acts as a creative
partner and is available in the U.S.
via Google AI Pro and Ultra plans.
Meta Projects $1.4T AI
Revenue by 2035
Meta projects $2–$3 billion in
generative AI revenue for 2025,
potentially growing to $1.4 trillion
by 2035, according to court documents
from a copyright lawsuit. The company
is investing heavily in AI infrastructure,
with over $1 billion in 2025 spending.
Despite legal challenges over alleged use
of copyrighted works to train its Llama
models, Meta continues to position AI
as key to its long-term growth strategy.
Google Adds AI Mode
to Search for Personalized
Results
Google has unveiled AI Mode, an
upgrade to Search that blends
AI with real-time data for more
detailed, personalized results. Available
to U.S. Labs users, it enhances AI
Overviews with richer summaries and
follow-up questions. Ideal for tasks like
trip planning, it supports multimodal
queries and introduces visual cards
for businesses and products. AI Mode
marks a step toward a more interactive,
intelligent search experience.
10 \ June 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
OpenAI to Acquire
Windsurf in $3 billion
Deal
OpenAI is acquiring Windsurf (formerly
Codeium), an AI coding
assistant, for around $3 billion,
its largest deal yet. Known for smart
code suggestions and automation,
Windsurf strengthens OpenAI’s push
into AI-assisted development, especially
within ChatGPT. The move positions
OpenAI to better compete with
GitHub Copilot and Amazon Code-
Whisperer and reflects a broader industry
trend toward consolidating advanced
coding tools. The acquisition
is still pending closure.
Samsung unveils
2025 Smart TVs with
AI, 7-year Updates
Samsung’s 2025 smart TV lineup
includes Neo QLED 8K/4K,
OLED, QLED, and The Frame, all
powered by Vision AI for personalized
visuals and audio. Starting at 49,490,
pre-orders come with a free Soundbar.
The flagship QN950F offers a 240Hz
refresh rate, Dolby Atmos, and smart
home integration via SmartThings.
Samsung also promises 7 years of OS
updates, emphasizing performance,
longevity, and connected living.
Microsoft Unveils Two
New AI Copilot+ PCs
Microsoft has expanded its
Copilot+ PC lineup with a new
12-inch Surface Pro and updated
13-inch Surface Laptop, both powered
by Snapdragon X Plus chips. Designed
for portability, the Surface Pro includes
a kickstand and Slim Pen, while the Surface
Laptop adds USB-C fast charging
and boasts the series’ longest battery
life. Starting at $799, both models are
available for preorder ahead of U.S. and
U.K. launches.
Apple to Launch
iPhone 18 in Two
Phases
Apple is reportedly changing its
iPhone launch strategy starting
with the iPhone 18 series. Pro
models will arrive in fall 2026, with
standard versions following in spring
2027. This staggered rollout supports
production flexibility, a broader lineup
including a rumored iPhone 18 Air
and foldable model and Apple’s global
manufacturing expansion. Key upgrades
include under-display Face ID,
120Hz displays, and the A20 chip built
on TSMC’s 2nm process.
Perplexity AI to Challenge Google Chrome with
Comet Browser
Perplexity is set to launch Comet,
an AI-powered web browser
designed for agentic search and
intelligent task completion. Unlike
traditional browsers, Comet features
built-in AI agents that handle multistep
processes, reducing manual
effort. Marketed as a smarter, more
proactive browsing tool, it’s now
open for early-access signups. Comet
challenges browsers like Chrome by
reimagining the web as an interactive,
AI-assisted experience.
June 2025 / 11

Digital Twin Technology
MIRROR CITIES:
HOW DIGITAL TWINS ARE
TRANSFORMING REAL ESTATE
PLANNING
Digital twin technology is enabling a revolution in planning
and managing the built environment. This article describes
how virtual replicas of buildings and infrastructure,
fed by live data, are used for simulation, optimization,
and monitoring. We review Dubai and regional examples
where city models and building twins improve efficiency
and sustainability. Executives will gain insight into how
investing in digital twins (combined with IoT and AI) can
drive innovation in design, construction, and operations.
Imagine a living, breathing model of
a city or building that mirrors its real-time
condition. That is the promise
of digital twins: virtual replicas that reflect
the current state of physical assets. By
integrating IoT sensors and Building Information
Modeling (BIM) data, planners
and operators can simulate scenarios and
test solutions before acting in the real
world. For the UAE’s real estate leaders,
digital twins have quickly moved from
being a futuristic concept to a strategic
necessity. The Middle East, including
Dubai are investing heavily in digital twin
12 \ June 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
technology, viewing it as a game-changer
in how we design, operate, and optimize
the built environment.
Digital Twins in Design and Construction:
Building It Right the First Time
Digital twins are transforming the way
architects and engineers approach design
and construction. Detailed virtual models
of planned buildings and infrastructure
allow for rigorous testing of structural
integrity under a variety of conditions,
such as seismic activity, wind loads, and
thermal stresses, before any physical
By incorporating AI,
cloud technologies, and
data-driven insights
into our government’s
DNA, we will transform
public service delivery,
optimise government
operations, and drive
sustainable economic
growth.”
H.E. Ahmed Hisham Al Kuttab,
Chairman, Department of Government
Enablement
work begins. This proactive approach
reduces costly errors, accelerates project
timelines, and ensures that sustainability
and performance goals are met from
day one.
In the UAE, projects like Dubai’s Sustainable
City are already leveraging digital
twins to optimize energy, water, and
waste management from the design
phase onward. By simulating different
design choices, developers can make
informed decisions that align with both
business objectives and environmental
targets.
Once a building or infrastructure asset
is operational, its digital twin becomes a
dynamic dashboard, continuously updated
by IoT sensors that monitor energy
consumption, occupant movement,
equipment health, and environmental
conditions. This real-time data empowers
facility managers to detect anomalies
early, such as a spike in humidity in a
server room, schedule preventive maintenance,
and optimize resource use.
A prime example is Masdar City in Abu
Dhabi, where a precinct-level digital twin
manages utilities and traffic flows. This
not only improves operational efficiency
but also reduces emissions and supports
the city’s sustainability agenda.
In commercial real estate, landlords use
digital twins to simulate space planning,
test retrofits, and forecast the impact
of upgrades, such as installing a new
cooling system, on energy use and occupant
comfort.
Smart Cities and Urban Planning: Shaping
the Future with Virtual Cities
At the city scale, digital twins are foundational
to smart city strategies. Urban
planners use these virtual replicas to
simulate the impact of new infrastructure
projects, like metro lines or green spaces,
on traffic patterns, air quality, and
energy consumption. The Smart Dubai
initiative and Abu Dhabi’s digitalization
efforts both feature digital twins as core
tools for enhancing urban resilience and
sustainability.
With digital twins, city officials can
model the effects of policy changes,
infrastructure investments, or even climate
events, enabling more informed,
data-driven decision-making. This capability
is especially valuable in rapidly
growing urban environments, where the
cost of mistakes can be high and the
need for agility is paramount.
Despite their promise, building and
maintaining effective digital twins is not
without challenges. Integration is a major
hurdle: merging CAD/BIM data, GIS
mapping, and real-time sensor feeds
into a coherent, interoperable platform
requires careful planning and robust IT
infrastructure. Data quality and consistency
are critical, as is ensuring that
all sources communicate seamlessly.
Cybersecurity is another key concern.
As digital twins become more integral
to city operations, they present new
targets for cyberattacks. Executives must
prioritize robust security protocols and
regular audits to protect sensitive data
and critical infrastructure.
To maximize value and minimize risk,
executives should consider phased pilot
projects—starting with a single building or
campus to demonstrate tangible benefits
before scaling up. Investing in digital twin
capabilities can also give companies a
competitive edge in bids and support
compliance through instant, automated
reporting on energy use, safety, and
other regulatory requirements.
The Backbone of Tomorrow’s Smart
Cities
For senior leaders, the strategic value
of digital twins lies in their ability to accelerate
innovation, improve operational
efficiency, and ensure regulatory compliance.
By blending IT and operational
technology (OT) data, digital twins enable
organizations to break down silos and
foster a culture of continuous improvement.
In the UAE, government initiatives have
identified digital twins as a key element
of national smart city and sustainability
strategies. Companies that develop
expertise in digital twins can differentiate
themselves in a crowded market,
demonstrating to clients and regulators
alike that they are at the forefront of
digital transformation.
Digital twin technology is poised to
reshape real estate and urban infrastructure
management across the UAE and
beyond. By enabling simulation, optimization,
and predictive maintenance,
digital twins offer unparalleled insights
that drive efficiency, sustainability, and
resilience. For UAE executives, embracing
this technology is not just an innovation
choice but a strategic imperative to
lead in the evolving digital landscape of
property and city management.
June 2025 / 13

Launch EXPRESS
NOTHING PHONE 3
TOWARDS A NEW MYSTERY
The Nothing Phone 3 is set to launch in July 2025, marking
the company’s entry into the flagship smartphone
market. This device aims to offer a premium experience,
combining advanced features with a distinctive design.
One of the most notable changes is the potential removal
of the signature Glyph interface, the unique LED lighting
system on the phone’s back. A recent teaser on X (formerly
Twitter) dramatically declared, “We killed the Glyph
Interface,” accompanied by a video showing the original
lights fading out. This suggests a new design direction for
Nothing. The reports suggest that the Nothing Phone 3 is
said to offer Braille-like markings.
In terms of build and design, the Phone (3) will introduce
a more refined and premium build. A close-up of the device
hints at a dual-texture back panel with a distinctive, integrated
button and a textured finish, reaffirming the brand’s
commitment to standout hardware design. Carl Pei, Nothing’s
co-founder, has stated that the Phone (3) will use
“premium materials” and offer a “software experience that
really levels things up.”
The Nothing Phone 3 is expected to feature a 6.77-inch
LTPO AMOLED display with a 120 Hz adaptive refresh rate
and a peak brightness of 3,000 nits, ensuring vibrant visuals
even in bright conditions. Under the hood, it will be
powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, coupled
with up to 12GB of RAM and 512GB of storage, delivering
top-tier performance.
Photography enthusiasts can look forward to a redesigned
triple-lens camera system, including a 50MP main sensor
and a 32MP front camera, promising high-quality images
and selfies. The device will also house a 5,000mAh battery
supporting 50W wired and 20W wireless charging, ensuring
prolonged usage with minimal downtime.
In terms of pricing, the Nothing Phone 3 is anticipated
to be positioned as a premium offering, with an expected
price of around £800 in the UK, translating to approximately
£60k to 70k in India.
With these enhancements, the Nothing Phone 3 aims to
compete directly with flagship models from established brands,
offering a blend of performance, design, and innovation.
14 \ June 2025

APPLE’S FIRST AI
SMART HOME HUB
HOME REDEFINED
Apple is set to make a significant entry into the smart
home market with its upcoming AI-powered smart
home hub, expected to launch by the end of 2025.
This device, resembling a compact iPad with a 7-inch square
display, aims to serve as a central command center for your
smart home, integrating seamlessly with Apple’s ecosystem.
Running on a new operating system called homeOS, the
hub will support core Apple services such as FaceTime, Apple
Music, and HomeKit, providing users with a familiar and intuitive
interface. A standout feature is its integration with Apple
Intelligence, the company’s AI platform, enabling contextually
aware interactions and smarter automation.
Designed with versatility in mind, the hub includes a rechargeable
battery, allowing for flexible placement throughout
the home. Its form factor is expected to be user-friendly,
catering to various household needs.
While Apple has not disclosed exact pricing, the hub is
anticipated to be positioned competitively, aiming to rival
devices like Amazon’s Echo Show and Google’s Nest Hub.
This smart home hub represents Apple’s commitment to
expanding its ecosystem and leveraging AI to enhance user
experiences. By integrating advanced technology with us-
thetechnologyexpress.com
er-centric design, Apple aims to redefine the smart home
experience, offering a cohesive and intelligent solution for
modern households.
DJI ROMO
TOUCHING DOWN, AT YOUR COMMAND
DJI is reportedly gearing up to enter the robot vacuum
market with its upcoming ‘DJI Romo,’ a premium robotic
vacuum and mop combo. Leaks suggest it will feature
advanced navigation, likely using ‘LiDAR or vision-based
mapping,’ similar to DJI’s drone technology for precise room
scanning and obstacle avoidance. The Romo is expected to
include ‘6 DoF sensors’ (six degrees of freedom) for better
spatial awareness, allowing it to maneuver around furniture,
pets, and small objects with ease.
One of the standout features could be its ‘self-cleaning
mop system,’ similar to high-end models like the Roborock
QRevo, with automatic washing and drying. Leaked images
show a docking station that supports charging, mopping
pad cleaning, and possibly even self-emptying dustbin functionality.
The vacuum is rumored to have ‘adjustable suction
and water flow,’ letting users customize cleaning intensity
for different surfaces.
DJI’s move into robot vacuums aligns with its broader strategy
to diversify beyond drones, especially given increasing
regulatory challenges in the U.S. and other markets. The
company’s expertise in battery efficiency, compact sensors,
and AI-powered navigation from its drone division could give
the Romo a competitive edge. Pricing is expected to be in
the $1,000+ range, positioning it against brands like Roborock
and iRobot.
While an official release date hasn’t been confirmed, recent
leaks (May 2025) show pallets of boxed Romo units,
suggesting a launch could be imminent. If DJI delivers on
the rumored specs, the Romo might shake up the premium
robot vacuum market with its combination of smart features
and DJI’s reputation for high-quality hardware. Keep an eye
out for official announcements in the coming months.
June 2025 / 15

16 \ June 2025
COVER

thetechnologyexpress.com
STORY
June 2025 / 17

Real World Assets
TOKENIZING REAL
ESTATE:
TRANSFORMING UAE PROPERTY
OWNERSHIP
Real-world asset (RWA) tokenization is transforming property
markets by converting real estate into blockchain-based
digital tokens. With deals reaching billions and UAE regulators
launching sandboxes, tokenization is increasing
liquidity and global market access. This article reviews
recent breakthroughs and market opportunities, explaining
why executives must watch this critical emerging trend.
In the past, real estate investment
meant illiquid assets and slow transactions.
Today Dubai is changing that
story. The Dubai Land Department (DLD)
has begun a blockchain tokenization pilot,
the first of its kind in the Middle East,
aiming to register property title deeds
on a secure blockchain platform. This
government-led sandbox, built with the
Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA)
and Dubai Future Foundation, aligns with
Dubai’s 2033 real estate strategy and
its ambition to be a global tech hub.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum
himself has hailed such initiatives as “a
new milestone for the UAE as a global
18 \ June 2025

leader” in innovation. Building on this,
DLD forecasts that by 2033 roughly 7%
of Dubai’s property transactions (some
AED 60 billion, or ~USD 16B) could involve
tokenized assets.
Regulatory Innovation and Pilots
Regulators in the UAE are deliberately
fostering tokenization. The DLD pilot
program means Dubai could become
the first jurisdiction to maintain on-chain
title deeds. Globally, onchain real-world
assets (RWAs) hit a record USD 17 billion
in early 2025, and UAE officials want to
capture a slice of that momentum. By
setting clear rules and building blockchain
registries, the UAE “de-risks” tokenization
projects for developers and
investors. Tokinvest founder Scott Thiel
(who helped shape VARA’s framework)
notes that a transparent legal framework
was the missing link in many markets,
and sees the UAE’s proactive stance as
drawing industry players to the region.
This regulatory push comes amid
broader smart-city and digital finance
efforts. Dubai aims to offer 24/7 secure
markets for property, just as it did for equities
and currencies. The government’s
goal is to “simplify and enhance buying,
selling and investment processes” for
real estate. For executives, this means
the bureaucratic friction of international
property deals could diminish, replaced
by token platforms governed under clear
local laws.
This initiative supports
Dubai’s goal of becoming
a global leader in
property technology.
Tokenization enhances
transparency, attracts
tech firms, and aligns
with the Dubai Economic
Agenda D33.”
Eng. Marwan Ahmed Bin Ghalita,
Director General, Dubai Municipality
Institutional Deals and Market Momentum
The hype around tokenized real estate
is substantiated by concrete deals. In
early 2025, UAE developer MAG Group
struck a USD 3 billion agreement (with
MultiBank Group and Mavryk) to digitize
luxury properties, from a Ritz-Carlton
tower to exclusive villas, on a regulated
blockchain marketplace. This landmark
deal, unrivaled globally, lets overseas
investors buy fractional shares of Dubai
properties via tokens. MAG’s executive
vice chairman, Talal Al Gaddah, says the
move “enhances liquidity and stakeholder
transparency” in the property sector.
Mavryk’s CEO adds that the model turns
landmark developments into “borderless,
liquid” investment opportunities.
Other players are not far behind. On
January 9, 2025, RWA platform Mantra
inked a USD 1 billion deal to tokenize
assets of the Damac Group, one of the
Gulf’s largest property firms. Mantra received
a VARA license to expand operations
across MENA, reflecting confidence
in regional demand.
For senior executives, these deals
are signals. Major Gulf developers and
investors are exploring token sales as a
new financing channel. As Thiel notes,
“many developers and large asset owners”
are curious about alternate ways to
monetize properties. Property firms and
investment funds will need to assess
partnerships with blockchain platforms
(like MultiBank or Tokinvest), or even
launch their own tokens. Meanwhile,
global capital can access UAE real estate
without physically buying a full unit,
making Dubai’s market more liquid and
diversely held.
Opportunities and Risks
The promise of tokenization lies in liquidity
and inclusivity. By issuing digital
tokens on a blockchain, owners can
fractionalize deeds, allowing 24/7 peerto-peer
trading. This opens real estate
to smaller investors worldwide, rather
than just large funds or local buyers. It
also means faster settlement and less
thetechnologyexpress.com
paperwork. In effect, real estate investors
get a mechanism akin to stock trading
for physical assets.
However, tokens don’t erase all real-world
complexities. Valuation of illiquid
assets, regulation of secondary trading,
and custody of digital keys remain challenges.
A 2024 McKinsey report warned
that property’s heterogeneity could slow
token adoption. Executives must also
watch for execution risks: software
flaws, unclear property liens, and market
volatility in crypto. Pilot projects by
DLD and others are therefore carefully
structured. For instance, MultiBank’s
platform uses a buyback-and-burn token
model to stabilize value, and licensed
exchanges like Mantra restrict trading
to approved tokens in 2025.
Moreover, tokenization is not crowdfunding.
The Dubai pilot and deals emphasize
compliance. Tokens represent
legally recognized shares or ownership
rights, often backed by existing laws
and custodians. DLD emphasizes that
blockchain titles will complement (not
replace) traditional deeds, aiming to
integrate with existing property laws.
For business leaders, this means due
diligence is critical: evaluate whether a
token platform has real legal ownership
backing, regulated auditors, and clear
governance rules.
Executive Outlook and Strategic Impact
For C-suite leaders in real estate, finance,
and technology, real estate tokenization
represents a strategic inflection point.
The digital asset wave is converging with
property, and no company wants to be
left behind. Developers should explore
pilot projects, perhaps tokenizing a new
project or a portion of their portfolio, to
learn the tech and attract global capital.
Asset managers and REITs might consider
token-based funds to broaden their
investor base. And financial executives
must anticipate how fractional real estate
changes balance sheets: digital tokens
may trade like securities, impacting how
property is financed and reported.
Banks, insurers, and regulators will
also feel the shift. Mortgage and lending
models might evolve if property liquidity
improves. Insurance underwriting
might need to cover cybertheft of tokens.
Compliance teams should track
how tokenized securities fit new virtual
asset regulations in the Gulf.
As Gulf markets digitize, early movers
will shape the playbook for a global, liquid
property marketplace.
June 2025 / 19

AI Leadership
NEXT-GEN
LEADERSHIP:
AI IMPERATIVES FOR TODAY’S
C-SUITE
The AI revolution has arrived at the executive suite. Senior
leaders overwhelmingly recognize AI’s transformative
potential, but many struggle with strategy and risk. This
article outlines why CEOs, CFOs, and boards must actively
champion AI: setting vision, investing in talent and data,
and ensuring governance. Drawing on recent surveys and
UAE case examples, we explain how leaders can convert
AI hype into competitive advantage while managing security,
ethics, and organizational change.
Generative AI and machine learning
are disrupting industries at breakneck
speed. In 2024, tools like
large language models (LLMs) and autonomous
agents have evolved from
buzzwords to business revolutionaries,
reshaping products, services, and operations.
A PwC survey reveals that 89%
of C-level executives view AI’s impact
as positive, with 31% calling it transformative.
Globally, 92% of leaders feel
confident making AI-related decisions.
Yet, despite this optimism, fewer than half
of executives consider themselves “AI
experts,” highlighting a critical learning
curve at the top.
20 \ June 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
In the UAE, this urgency is amplified
by national ambitions. The UAE National
Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031
aims to position the country among the
world’s top 10 in AI readiness by 2031,
aligning with the broader UAE Centennial
2071 vision of becoming the best
country in the world. The strategy’s eight
pillars, from building a global AI reputation
and fostering talent to ensuring robust
governance, are designed to drive economic
growth, government efficiency,
and societal well-being through AI. For
UAE executives, this means treating AI
not as a siloed IT project but as a core
business strategy, one that demands
proactive sponsorship, budget allocation,
and alignment with national goals.
Strategic Alignment: Embedding AI in
Business DNA
The C-suite must integrate AI into the
organization’s strategic DNA. Studies
show 77% of leaders expect AI to deliver
competitive advantages, and 75%
predict it will reshape their roles within
three years. In the UAE, this is not just
a corporate trend but a national imperative:
AI is expected to contribute roughly
20% of non-oil GDP by 2031, adding up
to AED 335 billion in economic growth.
Visionary leadership is essential. CEOs
must articulate a clear AI vision tied to
business KPIs. For example, Emirates
NBD uses AI to personalize customer
service, achieving a 40% reduction in
query resolution time. Similarly, Dubai
Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA)
employs AI for predictive grid maintenance,
cutting downtime by 30%.
These are not isolated cases; the UAE
government’s own digital transformation
leverages AI to boost efficiency across
sectors from energy and logistics to
healthcare and tourism.
However, AI’s potential hinges on data
readiness. Alarmingly, 91% of companies
lack sufficient usable data to trust AI
outcomes. Leaders must prioritize clean
data pipelines and governance frameworks.
The UAE’s National Programme for
Coders and Dubai Data Initiative provide
blueprints for centralized, secure data
ecosystems, ensuring organizations have
the infrastructure needed to deploy AI
at scale.
With 72% of executives planning to
reskill employees for AI roles, upskilling is
non-negotiable. Cross-functional teams,
blending AI engineers with domain experts,
are critical. Firms like G42 and AD-
NOC have established AI councils chaired
by C-suite leaders to steer innovation.
The UAE’s AI strategy also emphasizes
attracting and training talent for future
jobs enabled by AI, ensuring a steady
pipeline of skilled professionals.
Building the AI-Ready Organization
Transitioning from pilot projects to enterprise-wide
AI adoption requires structural
change. Key steps include appointing AI
leadership, measuring ROI, and scaling
responsibly. Companies like Mubadala
have introduced Chief AI Officers to align
initiatives with corporate strategy. CFOs
and CIOs must collaborate to track AI’s
AI is not just a technology,
but a catalyst for
economic transformation.
The UAE’s vision is to
integrate AI across sectors,
ensuring our nation
remains a global hub for
innovation and future
technologies.”
H.E. Omar Sultan Al Olama,
UAE Minister of State for Artificial
Intelligence
impact, while organizations like Etihad
Airways use AI-driven fuel optimization,
saving millions annually.
The UAE’s AI and Blockchain Guide for
SMEs helps smaller firms adopt AI without
overextending resources, democratizing
access to advanced technologies. AI
also introduces new risks that demand
C-suite oversight. Security remains a
top concern, with 71% of leaders citing
AI-related security risks. UAE firms
like DarkMatter now offer AI-specific
cybersecurity solutions, while boards
must update policies for bias mitigation,
transparency, and accountability, in line
with the EU’s AI Act and UAE’s AI Ethics
Guidelines. Establishing internal AI ethics
boards, as seen at Abu Dhabi’s Hub71,
ensures responsible deployment and
compliance.
Culture as the Catalyst: Fostering Innovation
from the Top
Success with AI hinges on cultural transformation.
Leaders must combat AI anxiety
through workshops and transparent
communication, as practiced by Dubai
Future Foundation. Rewarding experimentation,
as seen in Ajman Free Zone’s
grants for AI startups, incentivizes innovation.
User-friendly AI assistants, like those
deployed at PwC Middle East, empower
non-technical teams and democratize
AI adoption.
The UAE’s AI strategy recognizes that a
fertile ecosystem for AI depends not only
on technology but also on mindset. By
encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration
and celebrating early wins, organizations
can build momentum and resilience for
future AI initiatives.
The UAE’s AI Leadership Blueprint
For the UAE’s business elite, AI is a
strategic imperative and a national priority.
By embedding AI into vision, infrastructure,
and culture, leaders can unlock
unprecedented value. As the UAE races
toward its 2031 AI goals, executives who
champion responsible adoption today
will secure their organizations’ place at
the forefront of global innovation.
The next phase of the UAE’s AI journey
will focus on economy-wide adoption,
large-scale industry applications, and
ongoing policy evolution to ensure the
economic and societal benefits of AI
are fully realized. For C-suite leaders,
the message is clear: the time to act is
now—AI leadership cannot wait.
June 2025 / 21

VISIONARY Spotlight
MARWAN
AHMED BIN
GHALITA
DIRECTOR GENERAL, DUBAI MUNICI-
PALITY
Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita is widely
regarded as a trailblazer in proptech-driven
governance and urban
development. As Director General
of the Dubai Land Department (DLD),
he has championed blockchain integration
into Dubai’s real estate registration
system, positioning the emirate as the
world’s first to implement a full-fledged
blockchain-enabled property registry.
Under his leadership, DLD launched the
Real Estate Evolution Space (REES), a
cutting-edge proptech platform that consolidates
services, data, and innovation
to elevate the investor and citizen experience.
His vision focuses on creating a
digitally resilient real estate sector that
balances innovation with regulatory integrity.
Marwan has also led initiatives that
streamline transactional transparency and
reduce paperwork through smart contract
technologies, fostering a more secure
and efficient property market. With an
emphasis on inter-agency collaboration
and smart city alignment, his tenure is
marked by a fusion of policy, innovation,
and infrastructure strategy. His efforts
not only support Dubai’s ambition to be
the world’s most advanced real estate
market but also serve as a benchmark
for global digital governance in property
management. Through strategic,
data-driven planning and the implementation
of a robust digital infrastructure,
he is redefining how Dubai attracts global
investment, fosters institutional trust,
enhances operational transparency, and
positions itself as a pioneering force in
the era of intelligent and sustainable real
estate development.
Majid Al Marri plays a central role
in shaping Dubai’s real estate
innovation landscape through a
dual capacity at the Dubai Land Department
(DLD). As CEO of the Real Estate
Registration Sector and Chairman of
the International Property Show (IPS)
Organising Committee, he leads efforts
in regulatory modernisation, proptech
acceleration, and international cooperation.
Under his guidance, DLD has introduced
automated services and AI-driven
tools to simplify property transactions
and uphold transparency. He has also
been instrumental in updating legislation
to accommodate emerging technologies
and foreign investment trends, thereby
aligning local practices with global
expectations. At IPS, Majid has created
a dynamic platform for knowledge
exchange, enabling Dubai to host and
participate in influential global real estate
dialogues. His commitment to strengthening
regulatory frameworks while fostering
innovation has made him a key
architect of Dubai’s smart city ambitions.
Through extensive stakeholder engagement
and cross-border partnerships, he
advocates for a balanced real estate
ecosystem—one that’s forward-looking
yet governed by robust policy infrastructure.
Majid’s contributions reflect a bold
and forward-looking vision where smart,
adaptive regulations intersect with cutting-edge
technological solutions, creating
a dynamic environment that ensures
Dubai remains globally competitive, exceptionally
investor-friendly, and firmly
positioned at the forefront of innovation
in the international property arena.
MAJID AL MARRI
CEO, REAL ESTATE REGISTRATION SECTOR,
DLD & CHAIRMAN, IPS ORGANISING
COMMITTEE
22 \ June 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
HAMAD ALI
ABDALLA AL
MAHMOUD
CHAIRMAN, SHARJAH ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT (SEDD)
Hamad Ali Abdalla Al Mahmoud,
Chairman of the Sharjah Economic
Development Department (SEDD),
is a driving force behind Sharjah’s dynamic
and diversified economic growth.
Under his leadership, SEDD has prioritized
expanding advanced technology,
medical, pharmaceutical, and renewable
energy sectors, while also supporting
traditional industries such as machinery,
chemicals, and food and beverage. Al
Mahmoud’s vision is rooted in creating
a stable, investor-friendly environment
through strategic infrastructure investments,
robust regulatory frameworks,
and the development of free zones and
specialized economic areas. He has
overseen significant enhancements in
business licensing, digital transformation,
and customer service, resulting in a
notable increase in active licenses and a
boost in private sector contributions to
Sharjah’s GDP, which approached AED
140 billion. Al Mahmoud’s commitment
to sustainable growth is evident in Sharjah’s
balanced economic development,
low inflation rates, and successful diversification
away from oil and gas. By
fostering innovation, streamlining bureaucratic
processes, and maintaining
open communication with investors, he
ensures that Sharjah remains a leading
destination for industrial expansion and
foreign direct investment. With his forward-thinking
approach, Al Mahmoud
is positioning Sharjah as a model for
economic resilience and opportunity in
the region, driving progress across all
sectors for a prosperous future.
Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi
has been pivotal in advancing the
UAE’s real estate sector through
the integration of smart technology,
sustainability, and foreign investment
facilitation. As the Minister of State for
Foreign Trade, he champions digital
infrastructure and trade reforms that
support intelligent urban development.
His vision includes leveraging real estate
as a vehicle for sustainable economic
growth, anchored in ESG principles and
innovation. Dr. Al Zeyoudi has been a
strong advocate of smart buildings,
low-carbon construction, and energy-efficient
urban planning, policies that
directly impact real estate’s evolution in
the UAE. He has also played a key role
in attracting foreign direct investment
into the sector by fostering a regulatory
environment conducive to innovation
and transparency. Through initiatives
that promote digital trade corridors and
e-governance, he links real estate growth
with broader economic diversification
strategies. His contributions highlight the
UAE’s strategy to future-proof its urban
environments by aligning sustainability,
tech-enabled infrastructure, and global
competitiveness. Dr. Al Zeyoudi’s leadership
represents the UAE’s unwavering
commitment to becoming a global exemplar
of how real estate, international
trade, and cutting-edge technology can
seamlessly converge to build resilient,
inclusive, and future-ready cities.
DR. THANI BIN
AHMED AL ZEYOUDI
UAE MINISTER OF STATE FOR FOR-
EIGN TRADE
June 2025 / 23

Blockchain
THE TRANSPARENT
TRANSACTION:
HOW BLOCKCHAIN IS
STREAMLINING PROPERTY DEALS
Blockchain is transforming real estate in the UAE by streamlining
transactions, enabling tokenized ownership, and
enhancing transparency. Government-backed platforms
and smart contracts are reducing paperwork, fraud, and
barriers to investment. As adoption grows, blockchain
is set to make property deals faster, safer, and more
accessible for both local and global investors.
Blockchain technology is often associated
with cryptocurrencies, but
its most transformative impact in
real estate lies far beyond digital coins. In
the UAE, and especially Dubai, blockchain
is revolutionizing property transactions,
ownership, and investment through smart
contracts, tokenization, and transparent
digital ledgers. As the sector shifts
from paper-based processes to blockchain-powered
platforms, the promise is
clear: faster, safer, and more inclusive
real estate markets.
Traditional real estate deals are notorious
for their complexity. Multiple
intermediaries, lawyers, brokers, notaries,
slow transactions, increase costs,
24 \ June 2025

and introduce risks of error or fraud.
Blockchain, through the use of smart
contracts, is changing this landscape.
A smart contract is a self-executing
agreement stored on the blockchain. It
automates property transactions by executing
terms once predefined conditions
are met, such as payment confirmation
or regulatory approval. This eliminates
the need for manual paperwork, reduces
legal disputes, and ensures instant,
secure ownership transfers.
Dubai Land Department (DLD) has
pioneered blockchain-based property
registries, enabling real-time ownership
verification and preventing fraudulent
sales. As a result, Dubai’s real estate
sector is becoming more secure and
efficient, with buyers and sellers able to
access tamper-proof ownership records
directly on the blockchain.
Tokenization: Unlocking Fractional
Ownership and Global Access
Perhaps the most significant blockchain
innovation in UAE real estate is tokenization.
This process divides a property
into digital tokens, each representing a
share of ownership. Investors can buy
fractions of high-value assets, making
prime real estate accessible to a wider
pool of buyers and boosting market
liquidity.
Dubai’s government-backed pilot,
launched in 2025, allows UAE residents
to purchase fractional shares in properties
starting from AED 2,000 (about
USD 545). The platform, built on the
XRP Ledger and integrated with DLD’s
traditional registry, ensures that blockchain
records are always synchronized
with official government ledgers. This
initiative is projected to drive up to AED
60 billion (USD 16 billion) in tokenized
property transactions by 2033—about
7% of the city’s total real estate market.
Tokenization also enables seamless
cross-border investment. International
buyers can participate in Dubai’s property
market without the hurdles of traditional
ownership transfer, making the city a
magnet for global capital.
Cryptocurrency Payments: New Pathways
for Buyers
The UAE’s proactive regulatory stance
has made it one of the few places where
cryptocurrency can be legally used to
purchase real estate. Leading developers
such as DAMAC Properties, Binghatti
Developers, and Aldar Properties now
accept Bitcoin, Ethereum, and stablecoins
for property transactions. These
crypto-friendly payment options offer
faster settlements and lower fees, appealing
to international investors and
digital asset holders.
However, volatility in crypto prices
remains a concern. To address this,
developers are increasingly exploring
stablecoin-based transactions, which
offer price stability and regulatory clarity.
Blockchain’s immutable ledger ensures
that every transaction and ownership
record is tamper-proof and easily auditable.
This dramatically reduces the
risk of title deed forgery, unauthorized
sales, and double-spending. Buyers can
instantly verify a property’s history and
ownership without relying on third-party
validation, boosting confidence among
both local and foreign investors.
Dubai Land Department’s integration of
blockchain technology has set a benchmark
for fraud prevention and transparency
in the region, making Dubai’s property
sector one of the most trusted globally.
Regulatory Landscape and Challenges
Despite rapid progress, blockchain adoption
in real estate faces regulatory and
operational challenges. The UAE’s Virtual
Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) oversees
crypto-driven transactions, but legal
frameworks are still evolving to address
issues such as anti-money laundering
(AML), counter-terrorism financing (CTF),
and consumer protection.
Key challenges include:
1. Price Volatility: Fluctuations in cryptocurrencies
can impact deal values,
prompting a shift toward stablecoins.
2. Market Education: Traditional investors
may need time to embrace blockchain-based
transactions.
3. Integration: Expanding blockchain
adoption requires robust digital infrastructure
and interoperability with existing
systems.
Regulators are expected to refine
frameworks to promote blockchain-driven
real estate while ensuring compliance
and market stability.
The Road Ahead: A Fully Digital Real
Estate Market
Blockchain is steadily moving from
buzzword to backbone in the real estate
sector, especially in the UAE, where
government-led initiatives and private
sector innovation are converging to
reshape the way property is bought,
sold, and managed. As this article has
thetechnologyexpress.com
Amid rapid technological
advancements and the
increasing reliance on
digital solutions, real
estate tokenisation
emerges as a revolutionary
tool driving fundamental
change in the
real estate sector.”
Marwan bin Ghalita,
Former Director General, Dubai Land
Department
explored, blockchain’s practical applications,
ranging from smart contracts and
tokenized ownership to tamper-proof
registries and cryptocurrency payments,
are already streamlining transactions,
reducing fraud, and opening doors to new
classes of investors. These advances
are not just technical upgrades; they
represent a fundamental shift toward
greater transparency, efficiency, and
inclusivity in the property market.
While regulatory frameworks and market
education still present challenges,
the momentum is undeniable. The UAE’s
leadership in piloting blockchain-based
registries and tokenization platforms is
setting a global benchmark, demonstrating
how digital solutions can solve
long-standing problems of paperwork,
opacity, and limited access. As more
developers, investors, and regulators
embrace these tools, real estate transactions
are becoming faster, safer, and
more accessible, both locally and for
international participants.
June 2025 / 25

CRYPTO NEWS
MetaMask Unveils
Self-Custody Crypto
Card with Mastercard
MetaMask is launching a
self-custody crypto card with
Mastercard, allowing users to
spend digital assets directly via the
Ethereum-based Linea network. Unlike
traditional custodial cards, it uses
smart contracts for faster, secure
transactions. Entering a competitive
market with players like Binance and
Coinbase, MetaMask aims to boost
user control amid declining wallet activity.
This move supports growing real-world
crypto payment adoption.
Dubai’s DFSA Sandbox Draws 96 Tokenisation
Firm Applications
The Dubai Financial Services Authority
(DFSA) received strong
interest from 96 firms for its Tokenisation
Regulatory Sandbox at the
Dubai International Financial Centre.
The sandbox allows firms to safely test
tokenised assets like shares and bonds
under regulatory oversight. This initiative
supports Dubai’s goal to become
a leading global financial hub by 2033,
promoting innovation while ensuring
investor protection and market stability.
Dubai Partners with
Crypto.com for Crypto
Payments in Government
Services
Dubai’s Department of Finance has
partnered with Crypto.com to
enable cryptocurrency payments
for government services, advancing the
city’s Web3 and cashless economy goals.
This move supports Dubai’s strategy to
digitize 90% of transactions, potentially
adding AED 8 billion annually. Backed by
the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority,
the initiative strengthens Dubai’s position
as a global leader in digital finance and
innovation.
Dubai Draws the Line
on Crypto: Deadline
Set for Full Compliance
Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory
Authority (VARA) set a June 19
deadline for crypto firms to comply
with updated activity-based rules. These
aim to boost transparency, reduce risk,
and protect investors. VARA will guide
licensed firms through the transition,
reinforcing market discipline and operational
resilience while supporting
innovation in the virtual asset sector.
Ripple Meets UAE Officials
at Dubai Fintech
Summit
Ripple Labs, led by President
Monica Long, met UAE officials
at the Dubai Fintech Summit to
boost digital payments and financial
innovation. Since opening its Dubai office
in 2020, Ripple now serves 20%
of its global customers in the region.
With a DFSA license and partnerships
with DIFC, Ripple aims to accelerate
blockchain adoption and expand fintech
growth across the Middle East.
26 \ June 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
Bitget Protection Fund
Averaged $561M in
April 2025
Bitget’s Protection Fund averaged
$561 million in April 2025,
reflecting strong security amid
crypto market fluctuations. Peaking at
$617M, the fund safeguards users during
volatile conditions. Since its 2022
launch with $300 million, the fund has
doubled, supported by Bitget’s robust
risk controls, regular audits, and ISO
certification, demonstrating the exchange’s
commitment to long-term
asset protection and user trust.
Bitcoin Surpasses
Amazon, Reaching a
$2.054 Trillion Market
Cap
On May 8, 2025, Bitcoin’s market
cap surpassed Amazon’s,
reaching $2.054 trillion versus
Amazon’s $2.039 trillion, becoming
the 5th largest global asset. Driven
by institutional interest, ETF inflows,
and eased U.S.-China tensions, Bitcoin
surged past $100,000. Despite
volatility, its growing role as a store of
value highlights a major shift toward
decentralized digital assets challenging
traditional finance.
Bitcoin briefly Rallies
to $107k and Holding
Stable Around $105k
Bitcoin briefly hit $107,000 but
failed to surpass its $109,000
all-time high, slipping back to
around $102,417. Despite a 1% dip,
institutional buying remains strong, with
Metaplanet adding 1,004 BTC to its
holdings. Meanwhile, major altcoins like
Ether, Solana, and Cardano fell 3-5%,
causing the overall crypto market cap
to decline by 1%, signaling ongoing
market consolidation.
Dubai Unveils Region’s First Tokenized Property
Investment Platform
Dubai has launched “Prypco
Mint,” the region’s first government-backed
tokenized real estate
platform, allowing UAE residents
to invest from AED 2,000. Developed
with Prypco, Ctrl Alt, and supported by
VARA and the Central Bank, it offers
fractional ownership of Dubai properties
using UAE Dirhams. The platform
ensures investor protection through
regulated Client Money Accounts and
legal ownership registration by the Dubai
Land Department.
Ethereum’s Pectra
Upgrade Enhances
Staking and Scalability
Ethereum activated its Pectra
upgrade on May 7 at epoch
364032, marking its first major
update since 2024’s Dencun. This
combined hard fork includes 11 EIPs
that improve staking, add smart wallet
features, and boost layer-2 scalability.
Pectra highlights Ethereum’s commitment
to enhancing user experience
and advancing blockchain scalability.
June 2025 / 27

Construction
CONSTRUCTION 4.0:
3D PRINTING AND ROBOTICS
RESHAPING MIDDLE EAST
CONSTRUCTION
Robotics and 3D printing are entering the Gulf’s construction
industry in force. Dubai’s new 3D-printing strategy
calls for 25% of buildings to be printed by 2030. Already,
concrete-print machines are erecting office structures
on-site, and automated systems like drilling cobots (e.g.
Jaibot) are speeding up tasks. These innovations promise
faster, cheaper builds with less waste.
Automation has long lingered on
the fringes of the construction
industry, but it is now moving into
the mainstream, particularly in the UAE,
where government vision and private
innovation are converging. The Dubai
3D Printing Strategy, launched by H.H.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum,
aims for 25% of all new buildings
in Dubai to be 3D-printed by 2030. This
initiative is not just about technology for
technology’s sake; it’s about tackling
rising labor costs, tight project deadlines,
and ambitious development goals with
smarter, faster, and more sustainable
solutions.
28 \ June 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
At the vanguard of this transformation
is 3D concrete printing. In 2022, U.S. firm
Apis Cor completed a 640 m 2 , two-story
Dubai Municipality office using on-site 3D
printing. The project used a giant mobile
printer to “draw” gypsum-based walls
layer by layer, achieving record scale
and proving the technology’s resilience
to the Gulf’s harsh climate. The process
required minimal assembly, reduced labor,
and delivered a building that met
rigorous local standards.
Dubai’s 3D Printing Strategy is designed
to cut construction and labor
costs, reduce waste, and “redefine
productivity,” with 3D-printed buildings
taking just 10% of the time required for
traditional construction. According to
the scheme’s official website, the global
market for 3D-printed technology is
expected to reach USD 300 billion by
2025, up from USD 3.7 billion in 2016.
Local firms are moving quickly: “We
have four months from the time we start
to the time we deliver the house,” says
Mohammed Al Blooshi of 3DXB, referencing
a 40% time savings in the wall
segment and overall costs 15–20%
lower than traditional builds. This is a
game-changer for affordable housing
and rapid urban expansion.
Robotics on Site: Precision, Speed,
and Safety
Robotics are also gaining traction on
UAE construction sites. The Hilti Jaibot,
a semi-autonomous drilling robot, has
been deployed on major projects like
Dubai’s One Za’abeel. Jaibot marks and
drills with digital precision, executing
overhead MEP (mechanical, electrical,
plumbing) tasks six times faster than
manual teams. This not only boosts
productivity but also improves worker
safety by reducing exposure to repetitive
and hazardous tasks.
Other robots, like the SAM100 bricklayer
and Boston Dynamics’ Spot for
site inspections, are being tested in the
region. These machines use AI, machine
vision, IoT, and 5G connectivity to execute
tasks such as laying bricks, marking
layouts, and surveying difficult terrain. In
one project, a marking robot completed
25,000 m 2 of partition layouts, far faster
than any human crew.
Automation is not limited to the job
site. Dubai’s Central Lab for construction
materials has adopted AI-driven X-ray
robots to analyze cement and concrete
The future will depend
on 3D printing technologies
in all aspects of
our life. This technology
will create added economic
value and benefits
worth billions of dollars
during the coming
period. We should have
a share in this growing
global market.”
H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid
Al Maktoum,
Prime Minister of the UAE
specimens, reducing test times from four
days to mere minutes and increasing
throughput by 650%. This integration
of AI and robotics is streamlining quality
control, accelerating project timelines,
and reducing bottlenecks at every stage
of construction.
3D Printing: From Concept to Construction
Site
The advantages of construction automation
are clear:
1. Speed: 3D-printed buildings can be
erected up to 20 times faster than traditional
methods, with robots accelerating
repetitive tasks.
2. Cost: Labor costs are cut by up to
50%, and material waste is minimized.
3D-printed structures typically cost
15–20% less to build.
3. Safety: Robots reduce workplace
injuries by taking over hazardous or
repetitive jobs.
4. Sustainability: Automation and additive
manufacturing reduce waste and
energy consumption, aligning with the
UAE’s green building and net-zero goals.
For developers, these benefits translate
into higher margins, faster project
delivery, and a competitive edge in a
rapidly evolving market. Government projects
and proof-of-concept schemes are
leading the way, but commercial builders
are watching closely, ready to scale up
as the technology matures.
Policy, Strategy, and the Road Ahead
Dubai’s 3D Printing Strategy is part of a
broader vision to position the UAE as a
global hub for advanced construction
technology. The government has set up
clear regulations and incentives to support
adoption, with dedicated zones and
partnerships between public agencies,
universities, and private firms. Abu Dhabi,
too, is investing in robotics research,
hosting international conferences and
supporting pilot projects.
3D printing and robotics are reshaping
how Gulf skylines are erected. In
the near term, adoption is led by government
projects and pilot schemes,
but the commercial sector is not far
behind. As machines take over routine
tasks, companies will need to rethink
workflows, procurement, and workforce
skills. Early movers, those piloting additive
methods and robotic systems
now, stand to leapfrog competitors as
the region’s construction sector races
toward the future.
As Construction 4.0 accelerates, the
Middle East stands at the forefront of a
global transformation, leveraging 3D printing
and robotics to redefine productivity,
sustainability, and competitiveness. With
visionary leadership, ambitious targets,
and rapid technological adoption, the
Middle East region is poised to set new
benchmarks for efficiency and innovation
in the built environment, paving the way
for smarter cities and sustainable growth
in the decades ahead, made possible by
the strong leasdership and core guidance
from the UAE Government.
June 2025 / 29

INVESTMENT NEWS
IHC, BlackRock Launch $1bn AI-powered Reinsurance
Venture
Abu Dhabi’s IHC and BlackRock
have launched a $1 billion
AI-powered reinsurance platform
based in ADGM, targeting global
clients with a focus on the Middle East
and Asia. Led by industry veterans, it
aims to manage $10 billion in liabilities,
offering advanced digital underwriting
and risk solutions. This venture
strengthens Abu Dhabi’s financial ecosystem
and positions the company as
a future leader in reinsurance innovation.
MBZUAI and France
Just Teamed Up on AI:
Why It’s a Big Deal
MBZUAI is strengthening its
AI research partnership with
France in 2025 through a new
Collaborative Research Agreement with
École Polytechnique. The collaboration
will focus on large language models, AI
applications in health, safety, and biology.
Supported by the MBZUAI France
Lab in Paris, this partnership enhances
international cooperation to drive innovation
and advance responsible AI
development.
NEOM Invests in MemryX’s
Energy-efficient
Semiconductor Technology
NEOM Investment Fund (NIF) has
invested in MemryX, a Michigan
startup specializing in energy-efficient
Edge AI semiconductors.
MemryX’s MX3 accelerator powers
vision-based AI with less than 10%
of traditional GPU energy, supporting
applications like surveillance and
automation. This aligns with NEOM’s
goal to build a sustainable, AI-driven
smart city by enabling efficient, local
data processing and advanced digital
infrastructure.
Dubai Chamber supported
127 Startups’
Launch and Expansion
in Q1
The Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy
supported 127 digital startups
in Q1 2025, a 135% increase
from last year. It hosted events, digital
upskilling programs, and expanded its
“Business in Dubai” platform with 20
new partners. Minister Omar Sultan Al
Olama highlighted efforts to boost Dubai’s
digital ecosystem globally through 12
international roadshows, advancing the
city’s position as a tech innovation hub.
SC Ventures and Emirates
NBD announce
MoU to Explore Strategic
Innovation in
MENA
Commercial Bank of Dubai signed
three MoUs with TCS, Nexthink,
and CODE81 at the Dubai FinTech
Summit, focusing on innovation in digital
workplace analytics, data transformation,
and tech collaboration. CBD leaders also
participated in key panels on AI, open
finance, and digital trust, reinforcing their
commitment to fintech development
and supporting the UAE’s vision for a
future-ready, innovation-driven economy.
30 \ June 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
Abu Dhabi Teams Up
with Alpheya for AI
Wealth Tech
Abu Dhabi Investment Office partners
with AI wealth platform Alpheya
to boost financial innovation,
create Emirati jobs, and expand regional
presence. Alpheya will open an Al Ain
office, invest in IP registration, and launch
Emirati-focused internships and financial
literacy programs. This collaboration
supports Abu Dhabi’s vision as a global
finance-tech hub and advances its digital
wealth management leadership.
Xiaomi Commits $28 Billion to Core Tech R&D
for Innovation and Global Growth
Xiaomi will invest nearly $28 billion
(200 billion yuan) in core
technology research and development
over the next five years,
focusing on artificial intelligence,
semiconductors, and automotive
technology. Announced by CEO Lei
Jun, this move coincides with the
launch of Xiaomi’s first electric SUV
and advanced mobile chip, aiming to
strengthen its global competitiveness
and drive innovation across product
lines.
UAE Plans $1.4 Trillion
US Investment Over
Decade
The UAE has announced plans to
invest $1.4 trillion in the United
States over the next ten years,
as confirmed by Sheikh Mohamed.
This significant commitment highlights
the strengthening economic partnership
between the two countries, especially
amid renewed ties during the
Trump era. The investment will target
sectors like energy, technology, and
infrastructure, aiming to boost bilateral
growth and cooperation.
Trump Media Plans
$2.5 Billion Bitcoin
Investment to Diversify
Holdings
Trump Media & Technology
Group, operator of Truth Social,
is raising about $2.5 billion, $1.5
billion from stock sales and $1 billion in
convertible notes to create a Bitcoin
treasury. This move, involving around
50 institutional investors, aims to diversify
revenue and position Bitcoin
as a core asset on its balance sheet,
reflecting the company’s push into
financial services and crypto investment.
ADNOC Gas unveils
$15B Investment, Gas
Project Decision Soon
ADNOC Gas has announced plans
to invest up to $15 billion over
the next five years in major development
projects, including IGD-2,
MERAM, and the Ruwais LNG facility.
A final investment decision on the
Rich Gas Development project is expected
this summer. These initiatives
aim to boost gas processing capacity,
support growing oil production, and
strengthen the UAE’s energy sector.
June 2025 / 31

Climate Resilience
BUILDING WEATHERPROOF
PORTFOLIOS:
HOW DATA INTELLIGENCE IS
ENABLING CLIMATE-READY REAL
ESTATE
Climate change is intensifying risks to property values and
operations. Senior leaders can harness new data tools,
from satellite analytics to AI models, to map hazards and
prioritize mitigation. This article explains how predictive
analytics, geospatial data and innovative risk assessment
platforms help real estate investors and developers build
climate-resilient portfolios in the UAE and GCC context.
Extreme weather events and gradual
climate shifts are changing how real
estate leaders value and manage
assets. In the UAE and Gulf region, recent
flash floods and heatwaves have underscored
the vulnerability of buildings and
infrastructure. As one consultancy notes,
“recent adverse weather conditions in
the UAE have placed the spotlight on
the impact of natural disasters on real
estate”. Climate hazards such as coastal
flooding, sandstorms, or water scarcity
can erode property values and increase
insurance and maintenance costs. For
executives, the imperative is clear: incorporate
climate data and analytics
into every stage of property planning,
32 \ June 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
investment and operation.
Mapping Hazards: The Power of Data
and Predictive Analytics
Modern tools now enable firms to quantify
and visualize climate risk with unprecedented
precision. Geospatial data,
remote sensing, and predictive analytics
have become the new “currency” for
adaptation planning. As Teren founder
Toby Kraft explains, “by leveraging
contemporary methods of collecting
and analyzing location-specific data,
companies can keep their finger on
the pulse of what’s happening around
their assets.”
Providers use satellite imagery, weather
models, and local sensors to generate
high-resolution risk maps. These maps
can flag which developments face rising
flood levels, extreme heat exposure, or
supply-chain disruptions. For example,
analytics platforms such as ClimateAlpha
use GIS data and machine learning to
forecast how rising sea levels or storms
could affect real-estate portfolios. By
simulating future climate scenarios, leaders
can test property resilience long before
a disaster strikes, enabling smarter
site selection and proactive mitigation.
Action Point:
Reviewing municipal risk maps and
satellite overlays should now be a
foundational step in climate resilience
evaluations for any new development
or acquisition.
Investor Demands: Climate Risk as a
Financial Metric
Data-driven climate insights are rapidly
influencing capital flows. Banks, insurers,
and institutional investors now demand
evidence of climate resilience before extending
loans or insurance. They require
comprehensive surveys detailing each
asset’s condition, the estimated cost of
mitigation, and concrete plans for “enhancing
resilience.” Valuation practices
in the region are evolving: underwriters
and valuers insist on “extensive relevant
data” to price in climate risk.
The trend is reinforced by global
standards bodies and local initiatives.
In May 2023, ARISE UAE, a public-private
disaster resilience network, unveiled a
new Real-Estate Resilience Tool in Dubai.
Co-developed with the UN’s disaster
reduction agency, this framework “helps
businesses value, assess, and plan for
asset and operational resilience,” including
climate risks. Major UAE developers
and funders are already piloting this
tool, signaling that climate readiness is
becoming a de-facto requirement for
financing.
Key Question:
Will your property qualify for future
green asset classifications and attract
institutional investors seeking
ESG-compliant portfolios?
Technology in Action: Smart Systems
for Real-Time Resilience
On a practical level, property firms are
increasingly applying smart building and
city models to shore up resilience. Digital
twins and Internet-of-Things (IoT)
sensors enable continuous monitoring
of assets, from soil moisture around
foundations to energy loads during
heatwaves. Data platforms integrate
this real-time information with predictive
climate models.
For instance, AI systems can adjust
cooling and water usage automatically
based on weather forecasts, minimizing
strain during extreme heat. Some regional
projects are even experimenting
with “smart landscaping,” using drone
imagery and soil sensors to optimize
irrigation in a worsening drought. Across
the value chain, from design to disposal,
executives are asking: how does this
asset fare under the worst climate scenario?
Answering that requires merging
historical data, climatology, and building
performance analytics.
Best Practice:
Look for properties with integrated
climate tech:smart thermostats,
energy dashboards, and climate
sensors. These features enhance
both sustainability and resilience,
and may qualify for green financing
incentives.
Regulatory and Strategic Drivers: Compliance,
Risk, and Opportunity
Beyond physical risk, companies face
evolving regulations. Gulf regulators have
begun to incorporate sustainability into
codes and disclosure rules. For example,
financial authorities globally are issuing
guidance on climate risk reporting. The
UAE has been proactive: its central banks
and regulators encourage banks to manage
climate exposure, part of a broader
move toward “green finance.” Leaders
should take note: failure to account for
climate risk could mean not only damaged
property, but also compliance penalties
and reputational loss.
Abu Dhabi’s Estidama Pearl Building
Rating System, for example, is now mandatory
for new projects, setting high
standards for energy use, water management,
and material resilience. The
UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 initiative and
Dubai’s Green Building Regulations further
reinforce the need for climate-aligned
real estate.
Market Signal:
Properties that meet or exceed green
standards are likely to appreciate
faster and remain more liquid in future
secondary markets, as investor
demand for ESG-compliant assets
grows.
For C-suite executives in real estate
and construction, the message is urgent:
climate change is a board-level strategic
issue. The buildings that withstand the
next decade will be those engineered
and financed with data-driven foresight.
Using advanced analytics – from satellite-based
threat mapping to AI-powered
resilience ratings – can transform
climate uncertainty into a competitive
advantage. As one expert notes, investing
in higher-resolution geospatial data
“gives companies more assurance that
they are allocating spending to suitable
locations and reducing business risk”.
Senior leaders and managers who integrate
these insights into decision-making
will future-proof portfolios, safeguard
long-term returns, and emerge as pioneers
of a new, climate-resilient built
environment.
June 2025 / 33

UAE Tech NEWS
UAE Introduces AI in
Public School Curriculum
Starting next academic year, UAE
government schools will teach
Artificial Intelligence from age
four through grade 12. Announced by
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, the
program covers seven areas including
ethics, algorithms, and real-world
applications. Lessons will be tailored
by age and embedded in the subject
“Computing, Creative Design and Innovation.”
This move supports the
UAE’s broader AI strategy and prepares
students to lead in an increasingly
AI-driven world.
MBZUAI launches 6th Executive AI program for
UAE Leaders
MBZUAI has launched the sixth
cohort of its Executive Program,
welcoming over 40
UAE leaders across public and private
sectors. The 16-week course equips
senior executives with AI knowledge
to drive innovation and national progress.
Featuring a future-focused cur-
riculum, global AI experts, and handson
learning, MEP supports AI upskilling
and leadership development, advancing
the UAE’s vision for a future-ready,
AI-powered economy through institutional
capacity building and strategic
transformation.
Dubai ranks 4th Globally
in 2025 Smart
City Index
Dubai has climbed to 4th place in
the IMD Smart City Index 2025,
ranking highest in the GCC, Arab
world, and Asia. The jump reflects
strong progress in digital services,
mobility, and urban innovation. Residents
praised online services, green
space access, and recycling. Backed
by AI, smart mobility, and a resident-first
approach, Dubai continues
advancing its vision of a future-ready,
globally leading smart city.
Hyundai and PIF
Launch Saudi Arabia’s
First Car Factory
Hyundai and Saudi Arabia’s Public
Investment Fund (PIF) have broken
ground on a new auto plant in King
Abdullah Economic City, Hyundai’s first in
the Middle East. Set to produce 50,000
ICE and EV vehicles annually by 2026,
the plant supports Saudi Vision 2030.
The Hyundai-PIF joint venture will boost
local jobs, tech transfer, and industrial
growth, positioning Saudi Arabia as a
regional automotive hub.
Trump visits UAE to
Boost its AI Ambitions
President Donald Trump is concluding
a Gulf tour with a key visit to the
UAE, where AI is a top agenda item.
The UAE plans to import 500,000 Nvidia
AI chips annually, aiming to become a
global AI hub. While raising U.S. security
concerns, the deal reflects the region’s
growing tech ambitions. Trump’s trip
also secured major arms, aviation, and
investment agreements across the Gulf.
34 \ June 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
HUMAIN and NVIDIA
Partner to Build Saudi
AI Factories
Saudi Arabia’s AI arm, HUMAIN,
has partnered with NVIDIA to
position the Kingdom as a global
AI powerhouse. The collaboration includes
building massive AI factories
powered by up to 500,000 GPUs,
launching an 18,000-GPU supercomputer,
and advancing physical AI with
NVIDIA Omniverse. Large-scale training
programs will also upskill Saudi talent,
supporting Vision 2030’s push for
digital and economic transformation.
Meet Falcon AI: The Arabic AI Model Aiming for
MENA Dominance
The UAE’s Technology Innovation
Institute has launched Falcon
Arabic, a powerful AI model tailored
for Arabic language and dialects.
Despite being smaller in size, it rivals
models ten times larger. TII also debuted
Falcon H1, which reportedly
outperforms counterparts from Meta
and Alibaba. While Falcon has faced
recent competition, it remains the
UAE’s flagship model. These efforts
are part of the nation’s broader AI
strategy, including major data center
projects and global partnerships, reinforcing
its ambition to be a leader in AI
innovation.
UAE Astronauts unveil
Bold Space Plans at
GITEX Europe
At GITEX Europe, UAE astronauts
Hazza Al Mansouri and Nora Al
Matrooshi showcased the nation’s
growing space ambitions, from
building satellites locally to contributing
to NASA’s Lunar Gateway. They
highlighted AI’s role in satellite data
analysis, urban planning, and disaster
relief. With future manned missions
planned every 4–5 years, the UAE is
blending innovation and global collaboration
to lead in both space and AI.
Sheikh Hamdan Confirms
Moon Mission
2.0: What’s Different
This Time?
Sheikh Hamdan confirmed the
UAE’s second lunar mission,
Rashid Rover 2, set for 2026
to land on the Moon’s far side, making
the UAE the second country to
attempt this. Partnering with Firefly
Aerospace, the rover will test wheel
materials, analyze lunar conditions,
and support deep space research.
This mission advances global collaboration
and solidifies the UAE’s role in
pioneering space exploration.
UAE’s First Electric Air
Taxi May Launch in
2025
By late 2025, Archer Aviation plans
trial flights of its all-electric air taxi,
Midnight, in Abu Dhabi, advancing
sustainable urban mobility. The eVTOL
can carry four passengers and a pilot,
combining helicopter takeoff with airplane
cruising. With zero emissions and
low noise, it supports the UAE’s green
goals. Production is growing, and a local
UAE research center is in development,
signaling a future of clean, airborne
commuting.
June 2025 / 35

DRIVE TO THE FUTURE
THE FERRARI 296 SPECIALE:
REDEFINING PERFORMANCE AND DRIVING THRILL
The Ferrari 296 Speciale marks the new reference point in a proud line of performance named
Ferrari, taking the already spectacular 296 GTB to new heights. For drivers who value purity
and enthusiasm above all else, the 296 Speciale combines the latest technology with a motorsport
perspective and, in all manners of driving, mindfully light construction, resulting in a
driving experience that is both intense and sophisticated.
36 \ June 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
2.8 Sec
0-100 km/h
755 Nm
Torque
880 HP
Horse Power
The 296 Speciale takes the agility and responsiveness
of the 296 GTB to extreme new heights by exploiting
the full potential of its plug-in hybrid architecture,
consisting of a rear-mid 3.0-litre 120° V6 twin turbo engine
and an electric motor, a short wheelbase, and innovative
dynamic control systems. The drivetrain delivers an astonishing
combined power output of 880 hp, 50 more than
the 296 GTB and a record for a rear-wheel-drive production
Ferrari.
Gianmaria Fulgenzi, Chief Product Development Officer,
is keen to point out that the Speciale is about much more
than pure horsepower, however. “It is a full 360-degree
approach,” he confirms. So, along with the thrill of longitudinal
acceleration, he explains how Ferrari engineers
have focused on four other key parameters: lateral performance,
shifting, braking, and sound. Some make the car
faster, some make it more fun… and some do both.
Extensive use of carbon fibre, titanium engine components,
and a pared-down interior result in a weight reduction
of 60 kg compared to the standard 296 GTB. The coupe
tips the scales at just 1,410 kg, delivering a class-leading
power-to-weight ratio of 1.6 kg per horsepower.
The 296 Speciale generates 435 kg of downforce at
250 km/h—20% more than the 296 GTB—thanks to advanced
aerodynamic solutions like the new ‘aero damper’
and a lower ride height. This ensures exceptional stability
and grip at high speeds. The hybrid system not only boosts
performance but also offers an electric-only range of up to
25 km, making the 296 Speciale versatile for both track and
urban environments.
The car offers upgrades to the ABS Evo system, “Extra
Boost” mode for more aggressive acceleration, and a new
fast-shifting strategy for the 8-speed dual-clutch transmission.
These refinements would provide faster shift changes
and greater driver engagement.
The exterior design incorporates elements from Ferrari’s
racing heritage with aggressive lines, a fully functional aerodynamic
package, and a cockpit trimmed in carbon fibre
and Alcantara for that real racing feel.
Being more than just a speedier or lighter continuation,
the 296 Speciale updates the idea of what a modern supercar
means. Combining hybrid power, modern materials, and
always thinking about driving pleasure, Ferrari has designed
a car that performs superbly wherever it is driven.
For drivers looking for Ferrari’s best, the 296 Speciale is
more than a car; it’s an experience.
June 2025 / 37

Green Data Centres
THE ZERO-CARBON
DATA CENTER:
HOW CLOUD PROVIDERS ARE
CUTTING EMISSIONS
As cloud workloads and AI demand soar, data centers’
energy footprints have ballooned. This article examines
the tech industry’s shift to clean energy and efficiency.
We highlight how hyperscalers (e.g., Amazon and Google)
and regional players are integrating solar, wind, and
innovative cooling to drive down carbon. The piece also
cites UAE initiatives like Masdar’s solar-powered data hubs.
Executives will learn how sustainable cloud infrastructure
aligns with ESG goals and regulatory trends.
The explosion of cloud computing
and artificial intelligence has
thrust data-center energy use into
the global spotlight. Modern data centers—critical
for business, government,
and daily life—now consume as much
electricity as a small nation, and this
demand is only rising. According to the
International Energy Agency, global data
center electricity consumption reached
240–340 TWh in 2023, about 1–1.3%
of all electricity used worldwide. As AI
workloads surge, the sector’s emissions
and energy requirements are projected
to grow even faster.
For the Gulf region, where high ambient
38 \ June 2025

temperatures make cooling especially
energy-intensive, the challenge is acute.
Yet, this is also where some of the most
ambitious sustainability initiatives are taking
shape, driven by regulatory pressure,
customer demand, and the region’s own
net-zero commitments.
Global Hyperscalers: Ambitious Renewable
Energy Commitments
Tech giants have responded to the data
center carbon challenge with bold renewable
energy targets and operational
innovations.
Amazon Web Services (AWS), the
world’s largest cloud provider, reaffirmed
in late 2024 its goal to power
all operations—including data centers,
offices, and fulfillment centers, entirely
with renewable energy by 2025, five
years ahead of its original plan. AWS’s
next-generation data centers feature
modular designs, advanced liquid cooling,
and on-site solar and wind integration,
reducing energy consumption and
emissions. Liquid cooling alone can cut
energy use by up to 15% compared to
traditional air cooling.
Google has matched 100% of its
electricity consumption with renewable
purchases every year since 2017.
In 2023, Google signed new clean-energy
contracts totaling 4 GW, and its
average Power Usage Effectiveness
(PUE) reached 1.10, far better than the
industry average of 1.6. However, the
company also reported a 48% jump in
total emissions over five years, driven
by the boom in AI workloads and data
center expansion. Google is piloting renewable
diesel for backup power and
plans to scale this globally as availability
increases.
Regional Leaders: The UAE’s Green Data
Center Revolution
The UAE is at the forefront of sustainable
data center development in the Middle
East. With the country’s data center market
projected to reach USD 2.65 billion
by 2029, sustainability is both a business
and environmental imperative.
Khazna Data Centers, the region’s
largest hyperscale provider, is actively
transitioning to renewable energy. Its
newest facility in Masdar City (AUH6),
operational since 2024, features a 7
MWp ground-mounted solar photovoltaic
plant developed in partnership
with Emerge (a Masdar-EDF JV). The
building’s architecture, with overhangs
and reflective materials, minimizes heat
gain and reduces cooling loads. Khazna
is also introducing biofuels for backup
generators and exploring waste heat
reuse for district cooling.
Masdar City itself is home to the
world’s largest solar-powered data center,
supporting the Dubai Clean Energy
Strategy 2050 and the Dubai Net Zero
Carbon Emissions Strategy 2050. The
facility is fully powered by solar energy,
with a planned capacity of 100 MW and
a Tier-III Uptime Institute certification. It
offers next-generation services for cloud,
AI, IoT, and smart cities, all underpinned
by a carbon-neutral infrastructure.
International Partnerships are also
emerging. Italian energy giant Eni, in
collaboration with UAE’s G42 and Masdar,
is developing a 1 GW data center
in Italy powered by “blue” natural gas
(with carbon capture) and up to 3 GW
of wind/solar from the MENA region,
demonstrating the Gulf’s growing influence
in global sustainable computing.
Efficiency Innovations: Cooling, AI, and
Smarter Operations
Beyond renewable energy sourcing, efficiency
is key to slashing emissions. In
the Middle East, advanced cooling methods
are crucial: liquid cooling and hybrid
systems can reduce PUE by 0.1–0.2
points, a significant saving when cooling
accounts for 60–70% of a data center’s
operational costs. Many UAE data centers
use chilled water, free cooling at night,
and architectural strategies to minimize
heat infiltration.
AI-driven energy management is another
frontier. Machine learning systems now
optimize power distribution and predict
maintenance needs in real time, further
reducing energy waste and improving
uptime. Cloud providers dynamically
scale servers, shutting down idle machines
and adjusting rack temperatures
to maximize efficiency.
ESG, Regulation, and the Business Case
for Green Cloud
Sustainability is no longer just a technical
challenge, it’s a strategic and regulatory
imperative. Customers and regulators
increasingly demand green IT, and Abu
Dhabi and Dubai have both pledged carbon-neutral
goals that will soon extend
to public procurement of tech services.
Cloud customers are advised to select
providers offering transparent carbon
reporting and strong sustainability credentials,
as these will become differentiators
in competitive bids.
thetechnologyexpress.com
Innovative solutions are
needed to balance technological
development
and the sustainability
of energy resources, in
alignment with the national
goals in the field
of energy and sustainability.”
H.E. Eng. Sherif Al Olama,
Undersecretary, Ministry of Energy
and Infrastructure
The UAE government has formed a
National Team for Reviewing the Impact
of Data Centers on the Energy Sector,
tasked with developing policies and regulations
that ensure digital infrastructure
growth aligns with national sustainability
goals. Innovative solutions are needed to
balance technological development and
the sustainability of energy resources,
in alignment with the national goals in
the field of energy and sustainability.”
The cloud is getting greener, but the
journey is ongoing. As one executive
strategy brief observed, “we’re building
the world’s most energy-efficient
computing infrastructure” with a goal of
net-zero emissions. For business leaders,
two imperatives stand out: first, factor
renewable power and efficiency into any
large-scale IT deployment, solutions like
long-term green power contracts or onsite
solar arrays can slash lifetime emissions.
Second, leverage these trends
to meet corporate ESG goals: adopting
cloud services that emphasize sustainability
is as much a strategic choice as
any other digital investment.
June 2025 / 39

GLOBAL NEWS
JetBrains unveils Mellum,
an Open-source
AI Coding Model
JetBrains has released Mellum,
its first open code-generating AI
model, now available on Hugging
Face. Trained on over 4 trillion tokens
with 4 billion parameters, Mellum aids
code completion and can be finetuned
for specific tasks. Designed for
developers, researchers, and educators,
it’s Apache 2.0 licensed to support
broad use. JetBrains aims to foster
collaboration and experimentation
with this AI tool.
SpaceX Pulls
Off Another
Record-Breaker: 23
Satellites in One Go
On May 20, 2025, SpaceX launched
its 60th Falcon 9 mission of the
year, deploying 23 Starlink satellites
13 with Direct to Cell technology.
The flight featured the debut of booster
B1095, which landed on Just Read the
Instructions. This mission supports
global mobile coverage by enabling
satellite-to-phone links and brings the
Starlink constellation to about 7,500
satellites, furthering SpaceX’s connectivity
and innovation goals.
Apple and Anthropic
Team Up on AI Coding
Platform
Apple is collaborating with AI firm Anthropic
to develop “vibe-coding,”
an AI-powered coding platform
integrated into Xcode. Using Anthropic’s
Claude Sonnet model, it aims to assist
developers with code writing, editing,
and testing. Currently for internal use,
this project highlights Apple’s growing
AI focus and could eventually transform
software development with smarter,
automated coding tools.
VAST Data and Google Cloud Collaborate to
Accelerate AI Breakthroughs
VAST Data expanded its partnership
with Google Cloud, fully
integrating its AI-optimized platform
for seamless AI workloads across
cloud, edge, and on-premises. Key
features include a global namespace,
unified data access, and cost-efficient
architecture. This collaboration enables
faster AI training, RAG, and analytics,
simplifying operations and boosting
performance for enterprises. The
platform supports scalable, flexible,
and intelligent AI data management on
Google Cloud.
Uber, WeRide Plan
Robotaxi Expansion to
15 Cities
Uber and WeRide plan to expand
their robotaxi partnership to 15
more cities worldwide over five
years, following success in Abu Dhabi.
Users can access WeRide’s self-driving
cars via the Uber app, enhancing convenience.
Targeting Europe and the
Middle East, this move boosts Uber’s
global autonomous vehicle presence
and strengthens its role in shaping future
urban mobility.
40 \ June 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
Google Launches
AI Tools to Shield
Chrome Users from
Scams
Google is enhancing Chrome’s
security with AI tools that detect
and block scams in real time using
its Gemini Nano model. Enhanced
Protection mode doubles safety by
analyzing websites on-device, catching
new scams quickly. AI-powered warnings
on Chrome for Android alert users while
giving control to review or ignore alerts.
This approach boosts security across
Chrome, Search, and Android without
compromising user experience.
Huawei unveils HarmonyOS 5 with AI Features
for PCs
Huawei has unveiled HarmonyOS
5, its first PC operating system
built independently of Android.
Based on HarmonyOS Next, it
features an AI assistant for translation,
summarization, and multimodal
interactions. Enhanced multitasking,
customizable UI, and the Ark graphics
engine improve performance. With the
Star Shield privacy architecture and
cross-device Smart Office integration,
HarmonyOS 5 aims to unify Huawei’s
ecosystem for a seamless, secure
user experience.
Space42 and Gatehouse
enable
Smartphone-to-Satellite
Connectivity
Globally
UAE-based Space42, in partnership
with Gatehouse Satcom,
has successfully tested direct-to-device
(D2D) satellite communication
using L-band geostationary
satellites and 3GPP Release 17 tech.
This sets the stage for Thuraya Direct,
a messaging and IoT service launching
in Q4 2025. It will enable standard
smartphones to connect via satellite,
expanding mobile coverage to remote
areas where traditional infrastructure
is unavailable.
Samsung unveils
$1,099 S25 Edge,
Starts Thin-phone
Trend
Samsung has launched the ultra-thin
Galaxy S25 Edge, measuring
just 5.8mm thick and weighing
163g about 30% slimmer than the
S25 Ultra. Despite its compact build,
it features a titanium frame, 200MP
camera, and AI enhancements. Priced
at $1,099, it debuts with a 6.7-inch
display and up to 512GB storage. Samsung
aims to meet demand for lighter
phones without sacrificing performance
or premium appeal.
Opera launches Neon
Browser with Built-in
Agentic AI Features
Opera has launched Neon, a
next-gen browser with built-in
agentic AI that actively helps
users with tasks like coding, shopping,
and form-filling. Key features
Chat, Do, and Make enable smart
search, local task automation, and
cloud-based content creation. Neon
emphasizes privacy, speed, and multitasking.
Though subscription-based
pricing is pending, users can join the
waitlist now at operaneon.com.
June 2025 / 41

42 \ June 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
The UAE’s fintech sector is growing at an unprecedented
pace, driven by a bold regulatory environment and a sharp
focus on digital innovation. From embedded finance to open
banking and digital asset regulation, the country is positioning
itself as a global fintech hub. This Power List recognises 50
individuals leading that transformation: visionaries shaping the
future of payments, compliance, wealth management, lending,
and financial infrastructure.
June 2025 / 43

Top 50 FINTECH LEADERS in the UAE 2025
ABDULAZIZ FAHAD AL JOUF
FOUNDER & CEO, PAYTABS
Abdulaziz Fahad Al-Jouf, widely recognized as Abdulaziz
Al-Jouf or simply AA, is the driving force behind
PayTabs, one of the Middle East’s most influential
fintech companies. Born in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Al-
Jouf has carved a reputation as a dynamic, hands-on leader
with a passion for mentoring young entrepreneurs and a will-
ingness to take bold risks. His journey into entrepreneurship
began after earning a degree in Islamic business from Imam
Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University in 1999, followed
by studies in information technology and e-business in the
United States.
Al-Jouf’s early business ventures faced setbacks, but he
remained resilient. His determination led him to establish
PayTabs in 2014, inspired by his struggles to find a reliable
payment gateway for his startup. PayTabs quickly rose to
prominence, offering secure and scalable payment solutions
that have powered financial inclusion across the MENA region.
Under his leadership, PayTabs became the first Arab
company to be recognized among the top 100 global fintech
firms in 2024.
Known for his work ethic and commitment to innovation,
Al-Jouf is celebrated as a role model by Forbes Middle East
and other leading publications. He continues to shape the
future of digital payments, proving that vision and perseverance
can transform challenges into opportunities, and
convert the future through fintech.
ABDULMAJEED ALSUKHAN
CO-FOUNDER & CEO, TAMARA
Abdulmajeed Alsukhan stands as a defining figure in
Saudi Arabia’s rapidly evolving fintech landscape.
As the co-founder and CEO of Tamara, he has led
the company to become the kingdom’s first homegrown
fintech unicorn, marking a historic milestone for the
region’s startup ecosystem. Born and raised in Saudi Arabia,
Alsukhan’s entrepreneurial journey began after completing
his education in the United States, where he earned a bachelor’s
in financial economics from California State University
and a master’s in economic policy from Boston University.
Before Tamara, Alsukhan co-founded Habli, a grocery logistics
provider later acquired by Nana, and played a key role
in building Nana itself, which grew into Saudi Arabia’s largest
digital grocery platform. His keen eye for market gaps and
his ability to leverage technology for financial inclusion set
the stage for Tamara’s creation. Inspired by the traditional
credit ledgers of neighborhood shops, Tamara revolutionized
digital payments with its sharia-compliant Buy Now, Pay Later
(BNPL) model, offering transparency and fairness to millions
of users across the GCC.
Today, Tamara boasts over 16 million registered customers
and tens of thousands of merchant partners, including global
brands such as SHEIN, IKEA, and H&M. Alsukhan’s vision, resilience,
and leadership continue to drive innovation, making
him a celebrated entrepreneur and a role model for aspiring
founders in the Arab world.
44 \ June 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
AKHTAR SAEED HASHMI
CEO & MANAGING DIRECTOR, COMERA PAY
Akhtar Saeed Hashmi, CEO of Comera Pay, is leading
the charge in reshaping the UAE’s digital payments
landscape with a vision rooted in innovation, security,
and financial inclusion. Under his stewardship,
Comera Pay, part of the Royal Group and Comera Financial
Holding, has rapidly emerged as a comprehensive digital
payment platform, offering seamless solutions for both individuals
and businesses.
Comera Pay’s all-in-one app delivers a wide array of services,
including digital wallets, peer-to-peer transfers, QR code payments,
remittances, bill payments, mobile top-ups, and virtual
accounts for consumers. For business clients, the platform
provides advanced features such as POS systems, payment
gateways, multi-currency wallets, cross-border remittances,
and corporate expense management, empowering merchants
to operate efficiently in a fast-paced, cashless economy.
Hashmi’s focus on user-centric design and robust security
is evident in Comera Pay’s use of advanced encryption, real-time
balance updates, and instant payment notifications.
Licensed and regulated by the Central Bank of the UAE,
Comera Pay is committed to supporting the nation’s cashless
vision while fostering healthy competition and expanding
access to financial services.
By prioritizing convenience and innovation, Hashmi is positioning
Comera Pay as a key fintech player driving digital
transformation and financial empowerment across the UAE.
ALEX MIAUTON
CHIEF PRODUCT OFFICER,
PROPERTY FINDER GROUP
Alex Miauton served as Chief Product Officer (CPO)
at Property Finder Group, the Middle East and North
Africa’s leading real estate marketplace, where he
played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s product
vision, technology strategy, and user experience. With a
robust background in finance, technology, and management
consulting, Alex brought a unique blend of analytical insight
and operational expertise to the role.
During his tenure, Alex led the scaling of Property Finder’s
innovation and technology functions, driving initiatives that
significantly enhanced transparency and efficiency in the real
estate market. He championed products like Lead Tracker
and Pricing Report, which empower agents with real-time
data, streamline client management, and deliver accurate,
evidence-based pricing advice to homeowners and investors.
These tools have been instrumental in building trust and
fostering more informed decision-making among all market
participants.
Alex’s leadership style emphasized user-centric design,
data-driven decision-making, and cross-functional collaboration.
He empowered teams across tech, marketing, and operations
to innovate and respond to market needs, ensuring Property
Finder remained at the forefront of digital transformation in
the region. Today, Alex leverages his experience as a growth
equity investor and board observer at leading technology
companies, continuing to drive innovation.
June 2025 / 45

Top 50 FINTECH LEADERS in the UAE 2025
AMBAREEN MUSA
FOUNDER & CEO, SOUQALMAL.COM
Ambareen Musa is a trailblazing entrepreneur and the
CEO and founder of Souqalmal.com, the region’s
leading financial comparison and insurance platform.
Born in Mauritius and now based in the UAE, Musa
has built a reputation as a dynamic leader with a vision for
financial inclusion and empowerment. Her journey into en-
trepreneurship started early, at just 21, she launched her first
digital business, an online property portal for international
students in Australia, where she also earned her undergraduate
business degree.
Musa’s career is marked by a blend of global experience
and deep expertise in fintech. After moving to London, she
worked for GE’s financial arm, leading the UK’s first online
financial literacy initiative, Moneybasics.co.uk. She later moved
to the UAE, consulting for Bain & Company Middle East and
setting up the consulting arm of MasterCard Middle East and
Africa before founding Souqalmal.com in 2012.
Under her leadership, Souqalmal.com has become a trusted
resource for millions, offering information on over 3,200
banking, insurance, and education products across the UAE
and Saudi Arabia. Musa has been recognized as one of the
“Top 50 Most Influential Women in the Arab World,” and
she continues to advocate for financial literacy and inclusion,
serving on the UN Secretary-General’s Digital Financing
Task Force. Her story is one of resilience, innovation, and
a commitment to empowering others through technology.
AMIRA SAJWANI
FOUNDER & CEO, PRYPCO
Amira Sajwani, founder and CEO of Prypco, is at the
forefront of transforming the UAE’s fintech sector
by pioneering digital real estate investment. Under
her leadership, Prypco has launched the region’s
first fully tokenized real estate platform, Prypco Mint, in
partnership with the Dubai Land Department and the Virtual
Assets Regulatory Authority. This groundbreaking platform
enables UAE residents to invest in premium Dubai properties
with as little as AED 2,000, converting real estate assets
into blockchain-based digital tokens and allowing for true
fractional ownership.
Prypco’s fintech innovation lies in its seamless, mobile-first
interface, which makes property investment transparent,
flexible, and accessible to a new generation of investors,
including tech-savvy millennials and first-time buyers. The
platform’s first tokenized property was fully funded within
24 hours, attracting 224 investors from over 40 nationalities
and demonstrating robust demand for digital, regulated real
estate products. Investors benefit from low entry barriers,
reduced fees, and the ability to diversify portfolios with frac-
tional stakes in multiple properties, all under strict regulatory
oversight. Sajwani’s vision is democratizing property ownership
and redefining real estate as a liquid, inclusive asset
class. Her leadership ensures Prypco is not only a fintech
trailblazer but also a catalyst for Dubai’s emergence as a
global hub for digital real estate innovation.
46 \ June 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
ARIF AMIRI
CEO, DIFC
Arif Amiri, CEO of Dubai International Financial Centre
(DIFC), is a transformative leader at the heart of
the UAE’s fintech and financial services revolution.
Since assuming his role in 2014, Amiri has driven
DIFC’s evolution into the leading financial hub for the Middle
East, Africa, and South Asia (MEASA), overseeing exponential
growth in both scale and influence. Under his stewardship,
DIFC has surpassed 6,000 active registered companies as
of July 2024, with assets under management reaching USD
700 billion, a 58% increase year-on-year.
Amiri’s vision is deeply aligned with the UAE’s commitment
to innovation, digital transformation, and economic
diversification. He has championed initiatives such as the
Dubai AI and Web 3.0 Campus, designed to attract over 500
global startups and USD 300 million in investment, further
cementing DIFC’s status as a magnet for fintech innovation.
Amiri has also overseen the launch of regulatory sandboxes
and accelerator programs that nurture early-stage fintechs,
helping to position Dubai as a global leader in future finance.
His leadership ensures DIFC remains at the forefront of
regulatory excellence and sustainable finance, supporting the
UAE’s ambition to be a top-tier international financial centre.
Beyond his executive role, Amiri is a member of Dubai’s Higher
Committee for Future Technology and Digital Economy and
sits on influential boards, underscoring his wide-reaching
impact on the region’s financial and technological landscape.
ANDREW TORRE
REGIONAL PRESIDENT, CEMEA, VISA
Andrew Torre, Regional President for Central and
Eastern Europe, Middle East, and Africa (CEMEA)
at Visa, is a pivotal figure in shaping the future of
digital payments across more than 90 countries.
Since assuming his leadership in this region in 2018, Torre
has overseen significant revenue growth, expanded Visa’s
regional presence to 23 offices, and deepened partnerships
with over 1,800 clients in 86 markets. His tenure is marked
by a relentless drive to foster financial inclusion, innovation,
and secure digital commerce, supporting both established
financial institutions and emerging fintechs.
With a career at Visa spanning over two decades, Torre
has held senior roles in product, strategy, and pricing, as well
as general management positions in Russia and Sub-Saharan
Africa. His leadership has been instrumental in deploying cutting-edge
payment solutions tailored to the region’s youthful,
tech-savvy population, and in anticipating future consumer
needs through mobile and digital technologies.
Torre’s influence extends beyond Visa, with prior experience
at the World Bank and in senior roles at BankServ and
Washington Mutual. His vision is clear: to connect economies
and uplift communities by making digital payments
more accessible, reliable, and secure, positioning Visa as
a major catalyst for sustainable, inclusive economic growth
in the Central and Eastern Europe, Middle East, and Africa
(CEMEA) region.
June 2025 / 47

Top 50 FINTECH LEADERS in the UAE 2025
CRAIG MOORE
FOUNDER & CEO, BEEHIVE
Craig Moore is the driving force behind Beehive, the
UAE’s first regulated peer-to-peer (P2P) lending platform,
which he founded in Dubai in 2015 to bridge
the gap between small and medium-sized enterprises
(SMEs) and investors. With a background steeped in
tech entrepreneurship and finance, Moore’s journey began
in the UK, where he established Butterfly Software, a data
analytics and migration firm that was later acquired by IBM
in 2012. His experience spans sales, consulting, and finance
roles at major multinationals, including Dell, EMC, Hitachi, and
HSBC, shaping his approach to building scalable, impactful
businesses.
Moore chose Dubai as the launchpad for Beehive after
recognizing the critical need for accessible, low-cost finance
among regional SMEs. Under his leadership, Beehive has
grown into a fintech pioneer, connecting businesses with
over AED600 million in funding and supporting thousands of
ventures across the region. Moore credits much of his success
to timing and execution, emphasizing that “a good idea
well executed is better than a brilliant idea poorly executed.”
Known for his belief in transparency and empowerment,
Moore fosters a culture where every employee feels valued
and invested in the company’s mission. His leadership style,
rooted in resilience, and a commitment to innovation, continues
to drive Beehive forward, making a tangible difference
in the lives of entrepreneurs and investors alike.
CRISTINA BONACINA
SENIOR PRODUCT MANAGER, MONEYSMART GROUP
Cristina Bonacina is a dynamic force in the fintech
sector, currently serving as Product Lead (Tribe
Lead Customer) and Senior Product Manager at
MoneySmart Group, one of Southeast Asia’s largest
and most trusted personal finance portals. With a career that
spans multiple countries and industries, Cristina embodies
a rare blend of ambition, curiosity, and a relentless drive for
innovation.
Her journey began at ING, where she participated in the
International Talent Program, gaining hands-on experience in
digital transformation, core banking, and international projects.
She later joined illimity, an Italian challenger bank, leading
cross-functional teams and launching innovative products
like Italy’s first account aggregator. Cristina then co-founded
and led product at faire.ai, a pioneering Italian fintech focused
on instant lending, where she launched three market-ready
products and built a high-performing team.
Now based in Singapore, Cristina is shaping the future of
MoneySmart by spearheading customer engagement, retention,
and loyalty strategies. She has successfully launched
the platform’s first recommendation engine, which boosted
session-to-action conversion rates by 15%, and led initiatives
that improved user experiences through proactive personalization.
Cristina’s story is one of constant learning, resilience,
and a commitment to making finance more accessible and
user-centric for everyone.
48 \ June 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
DEEPAK ROCHLANI
GROUP CHIEF RETAIL BANKING OFFICER, ADCB HAYYAK
Deepak Rochlani is a driving force behind the transformation
of retail banking at Abu Dhabi Commercial
Bank (ADCB), where he serves as Group Chief Retail
Banking Officer. Since joining ADCB in 2004 and taking
on his current leadership role in 2022, Rochlani has leveraged
his 25 years of experience to shape a customer-centric,
digitally advanced retail banking operation.
His responsibilities cover a broad spectrum, including product
management, branch network oversight, sales operations,
and relationship management. Rochlani’s leadership ensures
that ADCB’s retail banking services remain competitive and
responsive to evolving market needs.
A central focus of his tenure has been spearheading digital
transformation, which has not only streamlined customer
experiences but also driven significant growth in customer
acquisition and engagement.
Rochlani’s background includes key roles in product and
marketing management at GE Capital and IDBI Bank in India,
giving him deep insight into both traditional and innovative
banking practices. He holds a Bachelor of Engineering degree
from the University of Bombay and a Post Graduate Diploma
in Business Administration from ICFAI Business School,
Mumbai, further strengthening his strategic and operational
expertise. Under Rochlani’s guidance, ADCB is continuing
to set the standard for large-scale retail banking excellence
in the UAE with the potential to be replicated worldwide.
DINA SAM’AN
CO-FOUNDER & MANAGING DIRECTOR,
COINMENA
Dina Sam’an is the Co-founder and Managing Director
of CoinMENA, one of the earliest players in the
Middle East’s digital finance ecosystem. A Jordanian
national, Sam’an has dedicated considerable effort
to overhauling and modifying the cryptocurrency access
system in the MENA region.
Her pathway into fintech began with a myriad of entry-level
positions at the region’s first crypto exchanges and managerial
roles within client operations, but what truly distinguishes
her is her vision for CoinMENA, which was launched in 2019
as a fully regulated Sharia-compliant platform.
During her tenure, the company has now become the
fastest-growing cryptocurrency exchange in the region.
CoinMENA is characterized by its secure, transparent, and
user-friendly interface, which allows users to buy, sell, and
store digital assets. Regulatory compliance, along with finances
and education advocacy, Sam’an also initiated CoinMENA
University, which serves as a public relations tool teaching
crypto to the masses.
The conviction so evenly matched her advocacy for di-
versity and inclusion, refracted through her work as an Advisory
Board Member for Women in Tech Bahrain and the
youngest board member at her undergraduate institution,
Princess Sumaya University for Technology. Sam’an’s story
is one of resilience, vision, and a relentless drive to make
finance more inclusive.
June 2025 / 49

Top 50 FINTECH LEADERS in the UAE 2025
FAISAL TOUKAN
CO-FOUNDER & CEO, ZIINA
Faisal Toukan is a pioneering fintech leader in the UAE,
best known as the co-founder and CEO of Ziina, the
country’s first licensed peer-to-peer social payment
app. Since founding Ziina in 2020, Toukan has been
on a mission to simplify finance and foster economic freedom
across the Middle East, focusing on making digital payments
accessible, secure, and user-friendly for both individuals and
small businesses. Under his leadership, Ziina has introduced
seamless payment solutions that allow users to send and receive
money instantly using just a phone number, eliminating
the need for IBANs or SWIFT codes and ensuring bank-grade
security with end-to-end encryption.
Toukan’s vision extends beyond payments; he is committed
to boosting financial literacy and empowering users to
better manage their finances, believing that understanding
money is essential for personal and communal growth. His
entrepreneurial drive has propelled Ziina to global recognition,
including acceptance into Y Combinator’s prestigious
accelerator program in 2021, and the company’s recent USD
22 million Series A funding round, led by Altos Ventures,
underscores its rapid growth and market impact.
Prior to Ziina, Toukan gained experience in venture capital
at Lumia Capital, equipping him with a broad perspective on
technology and finance. His leadership continues to shape
the UAE’s fintech landscape, positioning Ziina as a catalyst
for innovation and financial inclusion in the region.
HARRY GILL
CHAIRMAN, PAY10
Harry Gill, Chairman of Pay10, is a visionary leader
redefining the fintech landscape across the UAE
and beyond. With a career spanning multiple industries
and continents, Gill’s entrepreneurial journey is
marked by relentless innovation and a commitment to financial
inclusion. As the driving force behind Eastern Fortune
Investments (EFI), Gill has overseen Pay10’s evolution from
a pioneering e-payment startup in India to a leading global
fintech powerhouse headquartered in Dubai.
Under Gill’s strategic leadership, Pay10 delivers a comprehensive
suite of digital payment solutions, including e-wallets,
domestic and cross-border payment processing, and merchant
services, all designed to make financial transactions
more accessible, efficient, and secure for individuals and
businesses alike. Pay10’s focus on supporting local payment
schemes and adapting to the regulatory and economic vision
of each market has enabled it to empower merchants and
consumers across the MENA region and South Asia.
Gill’s approach is rooted in building lasting business legacies
based on integrity, reliability, and forward-thinking technolo-
gy. By assembling top-tier teams and fostering a culture of
excellence, he has positioned Pay10 at the forefront of digital
transformation, driving financial empowerment and inclusion
as the world moves rapidly toward cashless economies. His
strategic insight inspires industry growth and fosters trust
in digital finance.
50 \ June 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
HARSH AJMERA
CTO, ADDENDA
Harsh Ajmera served as Chief Technology Officer at
Addenda from 2018 to 2023, where he played a
central role in shaping the company’s technology
vision and driving its growth as a leading payment
processing platform in the Middle East.
With a strong background in engineering and fintech, Harsh
brought a combination of technical expertise and leadership
acumen to the role, overseeing the development of robust
digital solutions that streamlined payment workflows for businesses
across the region.
Before joining Addenda, Harsh was Head of Engineering at
Thought Chimp, where he honed his skills in building scalable
software products and managing cross-functional teams.
His experience also includes leadership roles in technology
startups and a commitment to fostering innovation and operational
excellence.
At Addenda, Harsh was instrumental in architecting the
company’s core infrastructure, ensuring security, scalability,
and seamless integration with partners, key factors that
contributed to Addenda’s reputation as a reliable and forward-thinking
fintech firm.
Since leaving Addenda, Harsh has continued to drive innovation
as Co-Founder and CTO at Bellboy, further cementing
his reputation as a forward-thinking leader in the technology
sector.
HISHAM AL-FALIH
CO-FOUNDER & CEO, LEAN TECHNOLOGIES
Hisham Al-Falih, the co-founder and CEO of Lean
Technologies, is a name synonymous with innovation
and ambition in Saudi Arabia’s rapidly evolving
fintech sector. Based in Riyadh, Al-Falih has built
Lean Technologies into the region’s leading open banking
platform, empowering businesses to seamlessly connect
with their customers’ bank accounts through a secure, developer-friendly
API.
Since its founding in 2019 alongside Aditya Sarkar and
Ashu Gupta, Lean has become the backbone for financial
institutions, fintechs, and even major brands like Binance,
Careem, and e&, processing billions in transactions and verifying
nearly a million bank accounts.
With a background in mechanical engineering from Stanford
and experience as a Mayfield Fellow and venture capitalist,
Al-Falih brings a rare blend of technical expertise and business
acumen to the fintech world. Under his leadership,
Lean has raised over USD 100 million in funding, including
a landmark USD 67.5 million Series B led by Silicon Valley’s
General Catalyst, a first-of-its-kind investment in Saudi Arabia.
Al-Falih’s vision is clear: to make financial infrastructure as
accessible and inclusive as possible, enabling companies of
all sizes to deliver secure, personalized services. His handson
leadership style, combined with a deep commitment to
fostering talent, has created Lean to be a company at the
heart of the region’s digital transformation.
June 2025 / 51

Top 50 FINTECH LEADERS in the UAE 2025
HOSAM ARAB
CO-FOUNDER & CEO, TABBY
Hosam Arab is a driving force behind the fintech
revolution in the Middle East, best known as the
co-founder and CEO of Tabby, the region’s leading
buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) platform. Since launching
Tabby in 2019, Arab has transformed the way millions of
shoppers manage their payments, offering flexible, inter-
est-free installment options that are both accessible and
consumer-friendly. His vision for Tabby was born from a desire
to make finance more inclusive and seamless, especially for
young, tech-savvy consumers across the Gulf.
Arab’s entrepreneurial journey began with Namshi, the
Middle East’s premier online fashion destination, which he
co-founded and led as CEO before its acquisition by Emaar
Malls in 2019. His experience in e-commerce and technology,
combined with a background in electrical engineering
from Queen’s University and an MBA from Harvard Business
School, has given him a unique blend of technical and business
expertise.
Under his leadership, Tabby has grown rapidly, securing
over USD 130 million in funding and partnering with major
retailers across fashion, electronics, groceries, and beauty.
Arab’s commitment to innovation and customer empowerment
has made Tabby a cornerstone of the region’s digital economy.
His story is one of resilience, and a relentless focus on
building solutions that serve people’s needs: qualities that
continue to inspire entrepreneurs throughout the Middle East.
IGOR DMITRIEV
CTO, SMARTCROWD
Igor Dmitriev is a seasoned technology leader who has
played a key role as Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at
SmartCrowd, the MENA region’s leading real estate crowdfunding
platform. With over a decade of experience in
banking, fintech, and digital transformation, Dmitriev brings
a robust technical vision and a track record of innovation
to the company.
At SmartCrowd, he led the development and scaling of the
platform’s digital infrastructure, focusing on security, user
experience, and seamless integration with financial partners.
His expertise spans artificial intelligence, machine learning, big
data, and digital product management, enabling SmartCrowd
to deliver advanced features and analytics for investors and
property partners alike.
Dmitriev’s leadership style emphasizes agility, continuous
improvement, and customer-centric development. He championed
agile methodologies and ensured compliance with
regulatory standards, supporting SmartCrowd’s rapid growth
and expanding investor base.
With a background that includes global banking groups and
entrepreneurial ventures, Dmitriev combines strategic insight
with hands-on technical expertise. His work at SmartCrowd
has reinforced the company’s reputation as a forward-thinking
player in the fintech and PropTech sectors. Igor Dmitriev is
a proven fintech leader, driving digital transformation and
innovative strategies across global banking sectors.
52 \ June 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
JOSEPH DALLAGO
CO-FOUNDER & CEO, RAIN
Joseph Dallago is co-founder and CEO of Rain, the Middle
East’s first licensed cryptocurrency exchange. From
its headquarters in Dubai and Manama, Rain has transformed
the regional digital finance landscape, making
crypto trading accessible, secure, and regulated for millions
of users. Dallago’s vision and leadership have been central
to Rain’s rapid rise as a trusted name in the industry.
Born and raised in Santa Cruz, California, Dallago has always
been fascinated by technology and software. He began
coding at 13 and went on to study Computer Engineering at
the University of Iowa. His entrepreneurial journey started
with Pi, an edtech startup he co-founded. Before launching
Rain, Dallago worked as a software engineer at Silicon Valley
companies like SurveyMonkey and Rockwell Collins, and for
digital currency exchange Abra. These experiences gave him
deep insights into both technology and the evolving world
of digital finance.
As CEO of Rain, Dallago not only leads the company but
also drives product development and engineering, ensuring
the platform remains innovative and user-friendly. Under his
guidance, Rain has secured major investments from Coinbase,
Kleiner Perkins, and Paradigm, and continues to champion
financial inclusion and freedom through crypto.
Today, Joseph Dallago stands as a key figure in the global
crypto revolution, shaping the future of finance in the Middle
East and beyond.
KHALIL ALAMI
FOUNDER & CEO, TELR
Khalil Alami is the Founder and CEO of Telr, a leading
online payment gateway company that has reshaped
the digital finance landscape in the Middle East and
beyond. With over two decades of experience in
fintech, Alami has established himself as a visionary leader,
steering Telr from its inception in Dubai to becoming a pivotal
force in online payments, trusted by thousands of businesses
and millions of users.
Alami’s journey is marked by a deep understanding of both
the technical and business challenges within the fintech sector.
He founded Telr with a mission to simplify and secure
online transactions for startups, SMEs, and large enterprises
alike, leveraging his expertise to bridge gaps in the rapidly
evolving digital payment ecosystem.
Under his leadership, Telr has consistently introduced innovations
such as AI-driven security, flexible payment options,
and seamless integration across e-commerce, social commerce,
and QR code payments, customizing the payment
journey for each merchant’s unique needs.
Beyond technology, Alami is known for his commitment to
customer experience and financial inclusion, ensuring that
Telr remains accessible and user-friendly for all. His strategic
vision and adaptability have earned Telr industry recognition,
including the “Payments Gateway of the Year” award, and
have positioned the company as a trailblazer in the global
fintech arena.
June 2025 / 53

Top 50 FINTECH LEADERS in the UAE 2025
MARWAN HACHEM
FOUNDER & GROUP CEO, YAP
Marwan Hachem is the founder and Group CEO of
YAP, the Middle East’s first independent financial
super app for consumers and businesses. Based
in Dubai, YAP has quickly become a trailblazer in
digital banking across the region, offering a seamless, allin-one
platform for everyday financial needs.
The app provides users with a digital bank account, debit
and virtual cards, real-time analytics, budgeting tools, instant
money transfers, and smart card controls—all accessible from
a smartphone. Since its launch in 2021, YAP has attracted
over 198,000 users and 8,000 SMEs, setting new standards
for fintech adoption in the region.
Before YAP, Hachem built a strong reputation in the payments
industry, leading to a successful exit with a previous fintech
venture. His deep understanding of financial technology and
user experience has shaped YAP’s customer-centric approach.
Partnerships with leading banks and ongoing expansion into
countries like Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Ghana, and Egypt further
demonstrate YAP’s ambition and reach.
Marwan Hachem’s leadership is marked by a focus on innovation,
agile culture, and a strong team spirit. He believes
that serving customers well and continuously improving the
product are the keys to long-term success. Under his strategic
leadership and guidance, YAP continues to transform
and redefine the landscape of fintech in the Middle East,
Africa, and South Asia.
MELIKE KARA
CEO, E& MONEY
Melike Kara is a dynamic leader at the heart of the
Middle East’s digital finance revolution, currently
serving as CEO of e& money, the fintech arm of e&
(formerly Etisalat Group). With over two decades
of experience in payments and fintech, Kara has become
synonymous with innovation and strategic growth, having
spent nine years as CEO at two leading telecom groups where
she built successful fintech businesses from the ground up.
Her journey is defined by a rare ability to craft tailor-made
strategies for each market, consistently driving results and
setting new industry benchmarks.
Since joining e& in September 2021, Kara has led the
transformation and expansion of financial services, aiming
to build the region’s leading financial superapp and expand
e&’s portfolio through both organic and inorganic growth
initiatives. Under her leadership, e& money has introduced
seamless payment solutions, remittances, bill payments, digital
gold management, and micro-lending, making finance more
accessible and secure for millions across the UAE and beyond.
Kara’s expertise spans payments, digital banking, e-wallets,
remittances, microfinance, and analytics, with a strong focus
on customer experience and operational excellence. Educated
at Middle East Technical University and with executive
training from Harvard and IMD, she is also recognized for her
advocacy of financial inclusion and digital transformation in
the region.
54 \ June 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
MICHAEL CHAN
CEO, ZAND
Michael Chan is the CEO of Zand, the UAE’s first fully
licensed all-digital bank, known for its innovative
approach to bridging traditional finance (TradFi) and
decentralized finance (DeFi). Since joining Zand
in November 2022, Chan has led the bank’s transformation
into an AI-powered digital bank tailored for the evolving digital
economy. With a rich background in banking and fintech,
Chan brings over two decades of leadership experience from
top financial institutions across Asia and the Middle East.
Before Zand, he held senior roles at First Abu Dhabi Bank
as Regional COO for APAC and at Crédit Agricole CIB, where
he managed operations across multiple countries. Chan’s
expertise spans corporate strategy, governance, operational
excellence, and digital transformation, making him wellequipped
to drive Zand’s vision of seamless, secure, and
innovative banking solutions.
Under his leadership, Zand has launched cutting-edge services,
including digital asset custody and AED fiat-backed
stablecoins, positioning the bank at the forefront of fintech
innovation in the region. Chan is also recognized for his strategic
use of cloud technologies and AI to enhance customer
experience and operational efficiency.
Educated in financial engineering and executive business
management, Michael Chan combines technical expertise
with global leadership. His vision continues to shape Zand
as a pioneer in the future of banking.
MICHAEL MIEBACH
CEO, MASTERCARD
Michael Miebach is the Chief Executive Officer of
Mastercard, a global leader in digital payments
and technology, where he is shaping the future
of commerce by driving innovation, security, and
financial inclusion. Since taking the helm as CEO in 2021, after
serving as President and Chief Product Officer, Miebach has
led Mastercard’s transformation from a card-centric business
to a diversified platform offering real-time payments, open
banking, digital identity, and value-added services for businesses,
consumers, and governments.
Miebach’s journey with Mastercard began in 2010 as President
for the Middle East and Africa, where he championed
financial inclusion and commercially sustainable social impact.
His efforts laid the groundwork for Mastercard’s expansion
into new markets and technologies.
Under his leadership, Mastercard has acquired companies
such as Vocalink, Finicity, and Ekata, broadening its capabilities
in payments and data analytics. Miebach’s collaborative
approach ensures scalable, trusted solutions that empower
economies and make commerce seamless and secure.
Beyond Mastercard, Miebach is active in global business
advocacy, serving on boards for IBM, as a member of The
Business Roundtable, the U.S.-India CEO Forum, and other key
roles. Miebach’s vision and leadership continue to position
Mastercard at the forefront of digital finance, driving positive
change for people and businesses worldwide.
June 2025 / 55

Top 50 FINTECH LEADERS in the UAE 2025
MITUL SUDRA
CTO, TARABUT
Mitul Sudra, Chief Technology Officer at Tarabut,
is a leading architect of fintech innovation in the
MENA region. With over two decades of global
experience, Sudra has built a reputation as a visionary
technology strategist, specializing in open banking
and payment networks. At Tarabut, the region’s first and
largest regulated open banking platform, he oversees the
development of secure, scalable infrastructure that connects
banks, fintechs, and consumers across Saudi Arabia, the
UAE, and Bahrain.
Sudra’s expertise lies at the intersection of cloud infrastructure,
information security, and high-performance product
architecture, enabling Tarabut to deliver seamless data and
payment flows that power the next generation of financial
products. His hands-on approach and passion for solving
complex challenges have been instrumental in Tarabut’s
rapid expansion and its ability to meet rigorous regulatory
standards across multiple markets.
Before joining Tarabut, Sudra was co-founder and CTO of
OpenWrks, the UK’s first FCA-regulated open banking platform,
which was acquired by Tink in 2020. His leadership at
Tarabut is defined by a commitment to fostering a culture of
innovation, transparency and community, building world-class
teams focused on delivering tech-forward products, and
making financial services more accessible and interconnected
throughout the MENA region.
MOHAMED ABDEL RAZEK
GROUP HEAD OF TRANSFORMATION & IT,
MASHREQ NEO
Mashreq, a leading financial institution in the MENA
region, has named Mohamed Abdel Razek as its
Group Head of Technology, Transformation & Information—a
strategic appointment that signals
the bank’s ongoing commitment to digital innovation and
customer-centric banking.
In this key role, Mohamed is responsible for leading Mashreq’s
technology organization, driving the successful delivery of
digital services, and ensuring the adoption of cutting-edge
technologies across the bank’s operations. With over 30 years
of global experience, Mohamed brings a wealth of expertise
from leading technology functions in major corporations. His
career includes notable leadership roles at Standard Chartered
Bank, where he most recently served as Chief Technology
and Operations Officer for Africa & Middle East, and at British
American Tobacco as Global Head of Technology Services.
His background spans industries such as telecommunications,
oil and gas, and fast-moving consumer goods, giving
him a unique perspective on digital transformation and operational
excellence.
Under Mohamed’s leadership, Mashreq is focused on
leveraging advanced technologies like AI, data analytics,
and automation to enhance service delivery and customer
experience. He is also dedicated to fostering strong partnerships
with external stakeholders and building a robust,
future-ready technology infrastructure.
56 \ June 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
MOHAMMAD RAAFI HOSSAIN
FOUNDER & CEO, FASSET
Mohammad Raafi Hossain is the founder and CEO
of Fasset, a pioneering digital assets exchange
focused on emerging markets, where he is driving
a mission to democratize access to finance and
investment for millions worldwide. His career is marked by
a rare blend of public-sector insight, entrepreneurial vision,
and deep expertise in emerging technologies—attributes
he honed during his tenure as Advisor to the UAE Prime
Minister’s Office.
Beyond Fasset, Raafi founded Finocracy, a think-and-do
tank partnered with the United Nations, Global Fund, and
Islamic Development Bank, dedicated to expanding financial
opportunities for underserved populations.
Previously, he led Narwi, an award-winning platform connecting
ethical microfinance institutions with entrepreneurs,
which created thousands of jobs and businesses across the
MENA region. Raafi’s academic background in Environmental
Economics and Sustainable Development from UC Berkeley
and Harvard further informs his commitment to impact-driven
entrepreneurship.
Under his leadership, Fasset has become the first regulated
fiat gateway for frontier markets, offering seamless access
to digital assets and remittances for people often excluded
from traditional financial systems. Hossain stands out as a
leader whose work bridges technology, and social good,
making finance more inclusive and accessible.
MOHAMMED AL-HAKIM
PRESIDENT, CRYPTO.COM
Mohammed Al Hakim serves as President of Crypto.
com for the UAE and GCC region. His appointment
is historic—he is the first Emirati and GCC national
to hold this top position in the global cryptocurrency
sector. His leadership is helping to shape the future
of digital finance across the Middle East.
Al Hakim brings more than ten years of experience in business
development, strategic partnerships, and financial innovation.
He has a strong track record of attracting significant investment
to Dubai, including over USD 800 million in foreign capital.
His work has also included raising millions in sponsorships
for major UAE government projects.
Before joining Crypto.com, Al Hakim played important roles
at the UAE’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.
His efforts there contributed to the ministry winning the prestigious
Mohammed Bin Rashid Government Excellence Award.
A graduate of Canadian University Dubai, Al Hakim credits
his education as the foundation for his success in finance
and technology. He is also a member of the Mohammed Bin
Rashid Center for Leadership Development, where he helps
mentor the next generation of regional leaders.
As President, Al Hakim is focused on expanding cryptocurrency
adoption, introducing Sharia-compliant solutions,
and ensuring that Crypto.com’s platforms are secure and
accessible for everyone. His vision is central to positioning
the UAE as a global leader in blockchain and digital finance.
June 2025 / 57

Top 50 FINTECH LEADERS in the UAE 2025
NANDAN MER
GROUP CEO, NETWORK INTERNATIONAL
Nandan Mer stands at the helm of Network International
as Group Chief Executive Officer, guiding one
of the Middle East and Africa’s leading digital payments
enablers with a rare blend of strategic vision
and operational expertise. With more than three decades of
experience spanning global markets, Nandan has built and
scaled businesses for some of the world’s most respected
financial institutions, including American Express, Citigroup,
United Bank for Africa (UBA), and Mastercard.
He has proven his commitment to innovation and top positions
in the market, evident in setting up consumer banking
services in India, the Czech Republic, Israel, Russia, and the
UK, along with leading international strategy at Mastercard.
Nandan’s payment, consumer finance, and corporate banking
knowledge are equally matched by his way of boosting
growth and earnings in various regions.
At Network International, Nandan works closely with the
Chairman and Board to set ambitious expansion goals, prioritizing
digital transformation, agility, and customer-centric
innovation. He also chairs subsidiary companies across the
Middle East and Africa, reinforcing Network’s position as a
trusted partner for businesses and economies in over 50
countries.
Nandan’s leadership is defined by resilience, collaboration,
and a relentless focus on delivering value for all stakeholders,
making him a true architect of the region’s future.
NICOLAS ANDINE
CEO, NOW MONEY
Nicolas Andine, CEO of NOW Money, is driving a bold
vision for financial inclusion in the UAE’s fintech sector.
Appointed in late 2023, Andine brings over a
decade of experience in scaling technology startups,
leveraging both local and international expertise to expand
NOW Money’s reach and impact. Under his leadership, NOW
Money has become a lifeline for the region’s underserved
and underbanked populations, particularly migrant workers
who have historically lacked access to traditional banking.
NOW Money’s platform offers innovative payroll and digital
banking solutions tailored for low-income workers. By
partnering with employers, the company ensures seamless
salary payments and provides users with secure mobile banking,
low-cost remittance options, and instant UPI transfers
to India, at fees below international standards. Andine has
overseen the launch of a pioneering banking subscription
service, simplifying the user experience and empowering
workers to better budget, save, and control their finances.
A strong advocate for social mobility, Andine has also championed
in-person financial literacy training in users’ native
languages, reinforcing NOW Money’s commitment to ethical
fintech and empowerment. His strategic vision aligns with
the UAE’s drive for digital transformation, positioning NOW
Money as a catalyst for positive socio-economic change
and cementing Andine’s place among the nation’s top fintech
leaders.
58 \ June 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
OLA DOUDIN
CO-FOUNDER & CEO, BITOASIS
Ola Doudin is the Co-Founder and CEO of BitOasis, the
Middle East’s leading digital asset platform that has
played a pivotal role in shaping the region’s cryptocurrency
landscape. Born and raised in Jordan,
Ola’s journey into fintech began with a strong foundation in
engineering and finance, having studied electronic engineer-
ing at the University of Birmingham and worked in tech and
security advisory at Ernst & Young in London.
Her passion for blockchain and digital currencies led her
to co-found BitOasis in 2015, with a vision to make cryptocurrency
accessible and secure for users across the Middle
East and North Africa. Under Ola’s leadership, BitOasis has
grown from a startup operating out of a coworking space to
becoming the first cryptocurrency exchange in the region to
receive a special license from Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory
Authority in 2023.
She is a vocal advocate for blockchain technology’s potential
to drive financial inclusion and economic development,
often speaking at international conferences.
Ola’s entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to innovation
have earned her recognition as a “Bitcoin Pioneer” in the Middle
East. She continues to steer BitOasis toward responsible
growth, emphasizing regulatory compliance and education
to build trust in digital assets. Her story is one of resilience,
vision, and a relentless drive to transform traditional finance
through technology.
OMAR ABU INNAB
CO-FOUNDER & CEO, KEYPER
Omar Abu Innab is the Co-Founder and CEO of Keyper,
a Dubai-based fintech platform revolutionizing the
rental experience for both tenants and landlords.
With a background spanning over two decades in
investment banking and venture capital, Omar brings a unique
blend of financial expertise and entrepreneurial vision to the
company.
Omar’s career includes senior roles at leading global institutions
such as Guggenheim Partners, Goldman Sachs, and
Credit Suisse, where he managed complex transactions and
investment strategies across the MENA region. He holds an
MBA and a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting and Finance
from Canisius College, underscoring his strong foundation
in financial management.
At Keyper, Omar has led the launch of innovative “rent
now, pay later” solutions and advanced property management
tools, addressing common pain points in Dubai’s real
estate market. The platform is designed to simplify rental
transactions, enhance transparency, and build trust between
tenants and property owners.
Beyond Keyper, Omar serves as a Board Member at the
Government Investments Management Company (GIMC) and
as a Co-Founder and Partner at WeBuild Ventures, further
solidifying his influence in the region’s financial and startup
ecosystem. His presence has deeply impacted the nature
of digital platforms in the PropTech sector.
June 2025 / 59

Top 50 FINTECH LEADERS in the UAE 2025
OMAR ONSI
FOUNDER & CEO, NYMCARD
Omar Onsi is the CEO and Founder of NymCard, a
leading fintech company redefining payments across
the Middle East, North Africa, and Pakistan. With a
career spanning over two decades, Onsi stands out
as a visionary entrepreneur who thrives on solving real-world
problems with technology.
NymCard, founded in 2018 in Abu Dhabi, was born from
Onsi’s ambition to modernize financial services by offering a
cloud-based, API-driven platform that enables banks, fintechs,
and businesses to launch virtual and physical card programs
with speed and flexibility.
Before NymCard, Onsi founded and led NYMGO, the largest
OTT international calls provider in the Middle East and
Africa, serving millions of users across 190 countries. He
also established Splendor Telecom, further solidifying his
reputation as a serial entrepreneur with deep roots in tech.
His leadership is marked by a keen focus on innovation and
customer-centric solutions, traits that have made NymCard
a trusted partner for organizations looking to embed finance
seamlessly into their offerings.
Onsi’s educational journey includes executive programs at
Stanford and Harvard, reflecting his commitment to continuous
learning and leadership excellence. Under his guidance,
NymCard has become synonymous with agility, scalability,
and a relentless drive to remove friction from the region’s
payment ecosystem.
OVIDIU SABOU
CTO, DUBIZZLE GROUP
Ovidiu Sabou serves as the Chief Technology Officer
at Dubizzle Group, a leading digital classifieds and
property platform operating across the Middle East
and South Asia. With a background rooted in software
development and architecture, Sabou has played a pivotal
role in shaping the technology strategy for Dubizzle, driving
innovation and operational excellence within the company’s
expansive ecosystem.
In 2008, Ovidiu co-founded AnswerJoy and served as a
back-end software developer. Ovidiu alternated in the architecture
and accomplishing of a browser-based educational
quiz platform, area they wrote the awful circumstantial backend
in Erlang.
Ovidiu again joined Yonder in 2010, area where they initially
formed as a Senior Developer. Ovidiu wrote a Silverlight application
for a business appliance framework and developed
a certificate indexing and assay aperture application using
Solr, OpenOffice.org, Python, and Django. Later on, Ovidiu
took on the role of Software Architect, an area where they
advised avant-garde architectures and face-lifting phases
for complete solutions, application of assorted web-oriented
technologies.
In 2016, Ovidiu joined Sector Labs as a CTO, an area where
they were responsible for arch the technological actions of the
company. Sabou’s vision and technical leadership continue
to be central to Dubizzle’s sustained growth.
60 \ June 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
PRABH SINGH
FOUNDER & CEO, TIGERPAY
Prabh Singh stands as the visionary founder and CEO
of TigerPay, a Dubai-based fintech company that is
transforming payment solutions for small and medium
enterprises across the UAE. Since launching TigerPay
in 2023, Singh has positioned the company as a revolutionary
force in the region’s digital payments landscape, offering
innovative softPOS technology that converts smartphones
into virtual payment terminals.
Before founding TigerPay, Singh gained valuable operational
experience working at Keno, a Dubai-based car care startup,
where he identified the payment challenges that would later
inspire his fintech venture.
The inspiration for TigerPay emerged from Singh’s firsthand
experience with payment friction in the UAE market. He recognized
that local businesses struggled with cash-on-delivery
preferences and the high costs of traditional POS systems,
which range from USD 300-500 per machine. This insight led
him to develop TigerPay’s flagship solution, enabling merchants
to accept card payments through their smartphones
without expensive hardware.
Under Singh’s leadership, TigerPay has achieved remarkable
growth, attracting over 2,000 merchant sign-ups within
just six months of launch. The company successfully raised
USD 250,000 in pre-seed funding and is currently pursuing
a USD 1.5 million Series A round, backed by notable investor
Ashneer Grover, former co-founder of BharatPe.
REECE MERRICK
MANAGING DIRECTOR, RIPPLE
Reece Merrick is the Managing Director for the Middle
East and Africa at Ripple, where he leads the company’s
business operations and strategic initiatives
from Ripple’s regional headquarters in Dubai. With
over 15 years of experience in fintech and payments, Merrick
has played a pivotal role in expanding Ripple’s presence
across the MENA region, a market now accounting for 20%
of Ripple’s global customer base.
Merrick’s leadership has been instrumental in driving the
adoption of blockchain-enabled payments and crypto liquidity
solutions, particularly in the cross-border remittance sector,
a cornerstone of Ripple’s offering. Under his guidance, Ripple
has secured in-principle approval as a blockchain-enabled
payment services provider from the Dubai International Financial
Centre, paving the way for the launch of new products such
as stablecoins and advanced remittance services in the UAE.
He is a strong advocate for regulatory clarity and progressive
government policies, emphasizing the region’s rapid
transformation into a global fintech hub.
His expertise and vision continue to position Ripple at the
forefront of digital payments and blockchain adoption in the
Middle East and Africa. With over 15 years of experience
driving innovation in payments and foreign exchange, Reece
Merrick has established himself as a leading fintech executive,
spearheading Ripple’s strategic growth across the Middle
East and Africa.
June 2025 / 61

Top 50 FINTECH LEADERS in the UAE 2025
ROHIT VAISHNAVA
CCO, DU PAY
Rohit Vaishnava is the Chief Commercial Officer (CCO)
at du Pay, where he leads the transformation of digital
payments across the United Arab Emirates. With over
two decades of strategic leadership in commercial
roles, Rohit brings a wealth of experience in marketing, sales
strategy, and management skills honed at industry giants like
du, Airtel, and ITC Limited.
His educational background includes an MBA in Marketing
from the Faculty of Management Studies, the CMM, and a
BBA in Management from Jiwaji University.
At du Pay, Rohit’s approach is data-driven and customer-centric.
He leverages market research and analytics to
craft marketing strategies that drive brand awareness and
customer acquisition across multiple channels. He also oversees
the mobile app’s user experience, ensuring it is intuitive
and available in six languages, making digital payments
accessible to a diverse user base.
Beyond strategy, Rohit manages profit and loss, pricing,
and budgeting, optimizing revenue streams for products like
remittance and visa cards. He is instrumental in developing
business plans and forging partnerships that expand du Pay’s
reach.
Rohit’s collaborative spirit, commitment to innovation,
and relentless focus on customer satisfaction make him a
vital force behind du Pay’s mission to revolutionize financial
services in the region.
ROHIT WAD
CTO, BINANCE
Rohit Wad stands at the helm of technology for Binance,
the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange,
serving as its Chief Technology Officer since March
2022. In this pivotal role, he leads engineering and
innovation across Binance’s global platform, ensuring the
exchange remains secure, scalable, and at the cutting edge
of crypto and blockchain technology.
Wad’s career spans more than three decades of leadership
in tech, with deep roots at industry giants. He spent over two
decades at Microsoft, contributing to foundational products
like Excel, SharePoint, and Bing, and later led product and
engineering for Skype, GroupMe, and Microsoft Teams as
Corporate Vice President. His tenure at Facebook saw him
grow the Seattle engineering office from 100 to over 1,000
engineers, while at Google, he spearheaded a startup team
focused on innovative mortgage solutions.
Educated at the Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay,
and the University of Virginia, Wad holds a B.Tech and an
MS in Computer Science, equipping him with both technical
expertise and strategic vision. His move to Binance marked
a transition from Web2 to the exciting world of Web3, blockchain,
and crypto, a shift he embraced to shape the future
of digital finance. Today, Rohit Wad’s leadership at Binance
is marked by a focus on security, compliance, and rapid
innovation, as he works to onboard the next billion users to
crypto and blockchain technologies.
62 \ June 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
SALEM AL DAREI
CEO, ADGM
Salem Al Darei, CEO of Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM),
stands at the forefront of the UAE’s fintech transformation,
steering ADGM’s rise as one of the world’s most
advanced and trusted international financial centres.
Since taking the helm in July 2023, Al Darei has leveraged his
extensive experience, spanning over two decades in legal,
governance, and executive leadership, to drive ADGM’s strategic
growth and innovation agenda. Under his leadership,
ADGM has seen a 30% year-on-year increase in operational
entities, with nearly 2,000 companies now thriving within its
ecosystem, including a fast-growing community of fintechs
and financial services firms.
Al Darei’s vision is anchored in fostering a progressive
regulatory environment and long-term partnerships, positioning
ADGM as a conduit for global capital and a magnet
for entrepreneurs, family offices, and institutional investors.
He has championed initiatives like Abu Dhabi Finance Week
and the expansion of ADGM’s regulatory framework, which
underpin Abu Dhabi’s ambitions as a leading investment and
innovation hub.
With a Master of Laws from the University of Westminster
and a proven track record in transformative leadership, Salem
Al Darei is not only shaping ADGM’s future but also advancing
the UAE’s status as a global fintech powerhouse. He is constantly
driving Abu Dhabi’s emergence as a global financial
innovation hub by championing progressive frameworks.
SAIF ALJAIBEJI
CO-FOUNDER & CHAIRMAN, SEHTEQ
Saif AlJaibeji is the Co-Founder and Chairman of Sehteq,
a pioneering digital health insurance company
based in Dubai that is reshaping how individuals and
businesses access and manage healthcare in the
Middle East.
With a background as both a physician and an accomplished
executive, Saif brings a rare blend of medical expertise and
business acumen to the insurtech sector. Sehteq, which
means “your health” in Arabic, was launched in 2017 from
the Ras Al Khaimah Incubator and Accelerator, quickly establishing
itself as a leading provider of low-cost, flexible health
insurance plans for individuals, SMEs, and large organizations.
Under Saif’s leadership, Sehteq has achieved remarkable
growth, raising USD 23 million from anchor investor 971 Capital
and serving over 650,000 consumers across the UAE. The
company stands out for its innovative use of technology,
offering a modular platform that allows clients to design their
insurance products and partners to integrate Sehteq’s solutions
into their offerings. Saif’s vision is to make Sehteq the
design studio and innovation lab of the insurance industry,
empowering other businesses with its digital infrastructure.
Before founding Sehteq, Saif held senior roles at global
healthcare leaders, where he led policy and government
affairs. His hands-on experience as a health insurance policy
advisor for Dubai Health Authority further strengthened his
understanding of regulatory and market needs.
June 2025 / 63

Top 50 FINTECH LEADERS in the UAE 2025
SALVADOR ANGLADA
GROUP CEO, OPTASIA
Mr. Salvador Anglada is the newly appointed Group
CEO of Optasia, a world-leading AI-driven fintech
platform that is reshaping financial inclusion for
underserved communities across emerging markets.
Taking the helm in April 2025, Anglada brings over
three decades of international leadership experience, with a
distinguished track record at major companies including e&,
Telefónica, and Dell Technologies. At e&, he notably transformed
the company’s B2B business and built e& enterprise
into a regional benchmark while also serving in key advisory
and board roles across the technology and fintech sectors.
Anglada’s vision at Optasia centers on leveraging artificial
intelligence and machine learning to expand access to
financial services, empowering millions who have historically
been excluded from traditional banking.
Optasia already reaches over 900 million people in more
than 40 countries, distributing more than USD 20 billion in
value to those in need. Anglada’s leadership is characterized
by a commitment to innovation, purpose-driven growth, and
collaboration with talented teams to unlock new opportunities
in digital finance.
With a background that spans engineering, executive education,
and global business, Anglada is well-equipped to drive
Optasia’s mission forward, making financial inclusion a reality
for millions worldwide. His appointment marks an exciting new
chapter for both Optasia and the broader fintech industry.
SAURAV SHARMA
SENIOR PRODUCT MANAGER, LIV. BANK
Saurav Sharma is a Senior Product Manager at Liv.,
Emirates NBD’s innovative digital bank, where he plays
a pivotal role in shaping the future of digital banking
in the UAE. With over 15 years of experience in banking
and fintech, Saurav has built a reputation for delivering
complex projects that drive business growth and enhance
customer experience.
Saurav’s role at Liv. Covers everything from coming up with
ideas and determining requirements, all the way to carrying
out work and shipping it to customers. He is responsible for
handling large projects for the main UAE and African banks,
such as switching credit card systems and making strong
loyalty structures that have considerably increased revenues.
Thanks to his knowledge in agile, stakeholder management,
and process improvements, he has helped raise satisfaction
among customers and increased the efficiency of the company.
Saurav’s background includes senior roles at Network
International and Capgemini, where he honed his skills in
project management, digital transformation, and cross-functional
team leadership.
Known for his analytical mindset and collaborative approach,
Saurav continues to be a driving force behind Liv.’s mission
to redefine banking for a new generation of customers. Saurav
Sharma leverages deep expertise in digital banking and
product management to drive innovative solutions in this
region’s changing digital landscape.
64 \ June 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
SERGE TERENTYEV
CTO, WIO BANK
Serge Terentyev is the Chief Technology Officer of Wio
Bank, an innovative digital financial platform headquartered
in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. With
a career spanning more than two decades in fintech
and technology, Serge has distinguished himself as a leader
who thrives on building and scaling high-performing teams
across diverse global markets.
His expertise covers the full spectrum of technology leadership—from
software engineering and architecture to product
development and large-scale integration.
Before joining Wio Bank in June 2022, Serge served as
CTO at Vivid Money in Germany and led technology investments
at Tinkoff Bank in Russia, where he played a key role
in launching one of the country’s top investment platforms.
At Wio Bank, Serge leads a multinational team that has
developed groundbreaking digital banking services, launched
innovative products, and built a robust technology stack
from the ground up. His leadership is marked by a passion
for excellence, a commitment to sharing knowledge, and a
forward-thinking approach to fintech innovation.
Serge’s vision continues to drive Wio Bank’s mission to
make banking accessible, efficient, and impactful for everyone.His
varied roles and experience has shaped him to
be an instrumental force in driving the bank’s rapid growth
and technological innovation, establishing Wio as a leading
digital financial platform in the region.
TALAL BAYAA
CO-FOUNDER & CEO, BAYZAT
Talal Bayaa is the CEO and co-founder of Bayzat, a
pioneering UAE-based technology company that is
redefining how businesses manage their insurance
and HR needs. With a background in bioengineering
from the University of California, Los Angeles, and credentials
as a CFA Charter holder, Talal brings a rare blend of
technical insight and financial expertise to the fintech and
HR-tech sectors.
His journey began after stints in private equity, corporate
finance, and investment banking, where he recognized an
opportunity to innovate in the financial products market.
Talal co-founded Bayzat with his school friend Brian Habibi
in 2013, aiming to simplify and empower business processes
through world-class technology. Under his leadership, Bayzat
has grown into a regional leader, serving over 127,000
employees across more than 1,500 companies in the GCC,
and raising over USD 60 million in funding from top investors.
The company’s SaaS platform helps organizations automate
HR, payroll, and insurance administration, making operations
more efficient and employee experiences more rewarding.
Talal’s leadership is marked by a passion for innovation,
customer-centricity, and a continuous improvement mindset.
He is committed to building a sustainable culture and brand,
focusing on both business growth and the well-being of
his team. He has positioned Bayzat as a leading employee
management software in the region.
June 2025 / 65

Top 50 FINTECH LEADERS in the UAE 2025
TAREK SOUBRA
CTO, AL MARYAH COMMUNITY BANK
Tarek Soubra is widely recognized as a strategic visionary
in banking technology, currently serving as Chief
Technology Officer at Al Maryah Community Bank,
the UAE’s first independent digital bank. In this role,
Soubra leads the digital bank’s launch and ongoing setup,
overseeing the design and implementation of applications,
systems, cloud deployments, and security frameworks.
Previously, Soubra amassed over two decades of experience
in IT and banking operations, with deep expertise in
core banking systems. He led digital transformation and IT
strategy at several financial institutions, including roles as
Group Chief Information Officer at Finance House P.J.S.C.,
where he centralized IT infrastructure, improved system uptime,
and launched key digital initiatives.
Soubra has also served as Head of Strategic Planning and
Transformation Program Director at Al Masraf, driving business
and digital strategies and implementing core banking solutions,
assisting in improving the IT department, and managing the
implementation of the TEMENOS T24 Core Banking system
Beyond his banking roles, Soubra is also the CEO of Prime
CTS, an IT consultancy dedicated to delivering trusted digital
solutions to financial organizations. His approach is marked
by a commitment to automation, process optimization, and
building diverse, high-performing teams. Through his leadership,
Al Maryah Community Bank has positioned itself as
a leading choice for consumers in the UAE.
TARIQ AL HAWI
CTO, AL ETIHAD PAYMENTS
Tariq Al Hawi stands as the Chief Technology Officer at
Al Etihad Payments (AEP), the UAE’s national payments
entity that is spearheading the digital transformation
of the country’s financial ecosystem.
With over two decades of experience in digital transformation
and technology leadership, Dr. Al Hawi is instrumental in
shaping AEP’s technological vision and ensuring the stability,
security, and scalability of the nation’s payment infrastructure.
At AEP, Dr. Al Hawi oversees the development and enhancement
of key platforms, including the Aani instant payment
system and the Jaywan national card scheme, both of which
are accelerating the UAE’s transition towards a cashless,
digitally inclusive economy. His leadership is defined by a
commitment to innovation, fostering a culture of experimentation
and resilience within his teams, and driving the adoption
of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and
central bank digital currencies.
Dr. Al Hawi is a prominent voice at major industry events,
sharing insights at forums like the GITEX Global, where he
highlights the vital role of technology as a catalyst for new
commercial relationships and financial inclusion.
Under his guidance, AEP has achieved significant milestones,
including PCI DSS 4.0 certification, reinforcing its reputation
as a secure and forward-thinking national payments leader.
His vision and expertise continue to position AEP at the heart
of the UAE’s digital future.
66 \ June 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
TARIQ ATARI
CTO, HYPERPAY
Tariq Atari, Chief Technology Officer at HyperPay, is
a central figure in the UAE’s rapidly evolving fintech
sector. With over a decade of experience in payments
technology, Atari has been instrumental in transforming
HyperPay into one of the region’s most trusted and innovative
payment gateway platforms. His technical leadership has
enabled HyperPay to process billions of dirhams in transactions
annually, serving thousands of merchants across
e-commerce, hospitality, government, and retail sectors.
Atari’s focus on robust, scalable architecture has allowed
HyperPay to deliver seamless, secure payment experiences
for businesses and consumers alike. He has overseen the
integration of advanced fraud detection systems, real-time
analytics, and comprehensive multi-currency support, ensuring
HyperPay meets the highest international standards for
security and compliance. Atari’s commitment to innovation
is evident in the platform’s continuous rollout of new features,
such as instant settlement solutions and API-driven
integrations, which empower merchants to adapt quickly to
changing market needs.
Beyond technology, Atari is passionate about financial
inclusion and digital transformation. He envisions a future
where HyperPay plays a pivotal role in making digital payments
accessible to all, supporting the UAE’s vision of a cashless,
digitally empowered economy. His expertise firmly establishes
him as a top fintech leader in the region.
TARIQ SHEIKH
FOUNDER & CEO, POSTPAY
Tariq Sheikh is the Founder and CEO of PostPay, a
Dubai-based fintech company that has quickly become
one of the most dynamic players in the MENA
region’s “buy now, pay later” (BNPL) market.
Launched in 2019, PostPay allows consumers to split purchases
into interest-free installments, making online shopping
more accessible and manageable for a wide range of users,
especially younger generations.
With a background that spans management consulting at
Kearney, strategic acquisitions at Invest East Africa, and seed
consulting at Stanford’s Institute for Innovation in Developing
Economies, Tariq brings a wealth of global experience to
fintech innovation.
He holds an MBA with distinction from ESADE Business &
Law School and the University of Cape Town, as well as a
Bachelor of Commerce from the University of South Africa.
His entrepreneurial spirit is further reflected in co-founding
Goldqad (Pty) Ltd and working as a portfolio analyst at SA
Bullion.
Under Tariq’s leadership, PostPay has secured significant
investment, expanded its services across the region, and built
strong partnerships with leading retailers and financial backers.
Tariq is recognized for his strategic vision, customer-centric
approach, and commitment to financial inclusion—qualities
that continue to drive PostPay’s mission to redefine digital
payments and empower consumers in the MENA region.
June 2025 / 67

Top 50 FINTECH LEADERS in the UAE 2025
TOM ADAMS
CTO, AYDEN
Tom Adams is the Chief Technology Officer at Adyen,
a global financial technology platform renowned for
its unified payments, data, and financial products.
With over 25 years of experience in high-growth
technology companies, Adams brings a wealth of expertise
in engineering leadership and product innovation. Prior to
joining Adyen in 2024, he led the global engineering organization
at Cash App (Block, Inc.), where he was instrumental
in scaling product, platform, and infrastructure for tens of
millions of users across diverse financial verticals.
At Adyen, Adams is responsible for the strategic and technological
vision of the company’s single platform, which
streamlines payments, data analytics, and financial services for
businesses worldwide. His mandate is to drive customer-led
innovation at scale, addressing the increasing complexity of
the payments landscape as digitalization accelerates and
consumer expectations evolve. Adams is recognized for fostering
strong engineering cultures and balancing long-term
technical strategy with agile execution, enabling Adyen to
deliver secure, seamless, and future-ready fintech solutions.
Adams holds Computer Science and Physical Mathematics
degrees from Griffith University, and his leadership continues
to position Adyen at the forefront of global fintech transformation.
Tom Adams brings extensive engineering leadership
to Adyen, driving innovation and advancing the company’s
integrated fintech platform for continued growth.
WES EZZEDDINE
ACTING CTO, MAMO PAY
Wes Ezzeddine is Director of Engineering and
acting CTO at Mamo Pay, a leading digital payments
platform in the UAE. In this role, he leads
engineering teams to develop and scale Mamo
Pay’s innovative financial solutions. His focus is on delivering
seamless, secure, and user-friendly payment experiences
for both individuals and businesses.
Ezzeddine brings a wealth of experience from across the
tech and fintech sectors. He began his career as a technical
support specialist in 2009, quickly moving into software development
roles at Murex and Guidewire Software. These early
experiences built his foundation in robust software solutions
and customer-focused technology.
He later advanced to senior engineering positions at Kainos
and VSware, where he further developed his skills in
solution architecture and agile development. Ezzeddine’s
entrepreneurial spirit led him to co-found Zambezii.com in
2018, where he served as CTO, gaining hands-on experience
in startup leadership and product innovation.
Subsequent roles at Heetch and Luko saw him managing
engineering teams and driving digital transformation in fastpaced
environments. Ezzeddine holds a Master’s in Mobile
and Ubiquitous Computing from Trinity College Dublin.
Today, his blend of technical expertise, leadership, and
vision continues to shape Mamo Pay’s mission: making digital
payments accessible and effortless for everyone.
68 \ June 2025

15–17
SEPTEMBER 2025
Your Innovation.
Their Next Sleep Solution.
Showcase it at Sleep Expo ME 2025 –
The Middle East’s only dedicated trade show for
the mattress, bedding & sleep tech industry.
Dubai World
Trade Centre,
Dubai, UAE
Mattresses Foams Quilts Sleep Tech
Machinery Smart Beds Components
and more...
Tap into your target markets: UAE, Saudi Arabia, Africa,
South Asia, Turkey & beyond.
PRE REGISTER FORM FOR MORE ENQUIRIES, CONTACT
ADNAAN PETIWALA
adnaan@mediafusionme.com
+971 52 194 2175
BOOK A STAND
MEDIA PARTNER
ORGANISED BY
WWW.SLEEPEXPOME.COM

FINTECH NEWS
FAB pioneers Oracle-Mastercard
embedded Finance
Solution in MENA
First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) pilots
MENA’s first embedded finance
and payments solution with Oracle
and Mastercard. Integrating Mastercard’s
virtual card into Oracle’s ERP,
it streamlines B2B payments, boosts
efficiency, transparency, and supplier
relations. This innovation tackles
payment delays and fragmented data,
helping businesses reduce costs and
improve cash flow management in the
region’s evolving financial landscape.
Vault Digital Wealth
Platform Opens to
MENA Public
Vault, MENA’s first digital private
wealth platform, officially launched
to the general public in May 2025
after previously serving select highnet-worth
clients. Backed by Peak XV
Partners and Outliers VC, Vault offers
tech-driven financial planning, portfolio
management, and access to global
investment opportunities. The platform
aims to democratize private wealth
management in the region, targeting
affluent individuals with over $100,000
in liquid assets.
Qashio Raises $19.8M
for MENA, Saudi
Expansion
Qashio, the Dubai-based B2B spend
management platform, secured
$19.8 million in a funding round
led by Rocketship VC with participation
from MoreThan Capital, regional banks,
and family offices. The capital will
drive expansion into Saudi Arabia and
strengthen its leading B2B fintech loyalty
program across the region. Qashio,
profitable in Q1 2025, serves clients in
22 countries and reported over 800%
annual revenue growth.
Coinbase to buy
Deribit crypto derivatives
exchange for
$2.9B
Coinbase is acquiring Dubai-based
crypto derivatives exchange
Deribit for $2.9 billion to expand
its crypto options market presence and
global reach. Deribit, with over $1 trillion
trading volume outside the US last year,
offers spot, futures, and options trading.
The deal includes $700 million cash and
11 million Coinbase shares, expected
to close by the end of 2025 pending
regulatory approval.
Hub71, Yas Investments Connect Startups with
Private Capital
Abu Dhabi’s Hub71 has partnered
with Yas Investments to help
startups access private capital
and family office funding. The collaboration
aims to strengthen the UAE’s
tech ecosystem by connecting innovative
early-stage companies with in-
vestors. Through joint initiatives like
the Tech Barza platform and climate
tech acceleration series, the partnership
will provide mentorship, networking,
and funding opportunities to
boost startup growth and attract more
investment to the region.
70 \ June 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
GCC Customers Demand Blended Digital and
Branch Banking
A
May
2025 survey shows GCC
bank customers want seamless
integration of digital and
in-person banking. In the UAE, 72%
prefer mobile apps for routine tasks,
but many still rely on branches for
complex services and cash needs.
High-income clients favor digital channels,
yet seek in-person advice for
major decisions. Banks are urged to
adopt “phygital” strategies, merging
technology with trusted human engagement.
PayTabs Unveils Saudi-Built
AI Payment
Platform
PayTabs Group launched a next-generation
AI-powered payment
orchestration platform, fully developed
in Saudi Arabia, in May 2025.
The platform is set to process over SAR
325 billion in transactions and features
real-time data tools, fraud reduction,
and plug-and-play APIs for banks and
institutions. This innovation supports
Saudi Arabia’s AI ambitions and expands
PayTabs’ fintech reach across the UAE,
GCC, and global markets.
UAE launches
Region’s First License
for Finfluencers
The UAE introduced the Middle
East’s first “finfluencer” license
in May 2025, requiring anyone
offering financial advice or investment
recommendations online to register
with the Securities and Commodities
Authority. The move aims to boost
transparency, investor protection,
and trust in digital financial content.
Registration, renewal, and legal fees
are waived for three years, making it
easier for content creators to comply
with new regulations.
Emirates NBD launches
Fourth Fintech
Talent Incubator
Cohort
Emirates NBD has launched the
fourth cohort of its National Digital
Talent Incubator (NDTI) program,
aiming to empower Emirati fintech
leaders. Supported by partners like
DIFC Innovation Hub, Visa, Microsoft,
and Dell, the six-to-eight week program
offers mentorship, networking,
and resources. Startups in this cohort
address sectors from digital payments
to AI and sustainability, helping drive
the UAE’s digital transformation and
fintech entrepreneurship.
Mastercard Opens
Riyadh Cyber Resilience
Center for
Banks
Mastercard launched its first
Middle East Cyber Resilience
Center in Riyadh in May 2025,
partnering with Riyad Bank to bolster
Saudi Arabia’s digital security. The
center unites financial sector leaders
for collaboration, training, and adoption
of global cybersecurity standards.
Focused on education, best
practices, and risk readiness, the initiative
supports Saudi Vision 2030 by
strengthening the Kingdom’s payment
ecosystem against evolving cyber
threats.
June 2025 / 71

Augmented Reality
BUILDING IN XR:
HOW AUGMENTED AND
VIRTUAL REALITY ARE SHAPING
CONSTRUCTION
Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) tools are
revolutionizing construction and design. This article reviews
use cases, from overlaying 3D building models on actual
sites to immersive safety training, that boost efficiency
and reduce errors. With examples from the UAE and global
industry, we show how digital reality tech helps architects,
engineers, and on-site crews collaborate and visualize
projects like never before. Readers will learn how investing
in AR/VR can shorten delivery times, improve safety, and
cut costs in large-scale building projects.
The construction industry, long characterized
by its reliance on physical
blueprints and manual processes,
is undergoing a digital transformation.
Immersive technologies, augmented
reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), are
bridging the gap between digital plans
and physical reality. AR overlays graphics
onto the real world, while VR immerses
users in a simulated environment, offering
hands-on ways to improve planning, training,
and execution. According to industry
analysts, Dubai and the Middle East are
experiencing a “surge in investment” in
AR/VR startups for construction, driven
by the region’s appetite for innovation
72 \ June 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
and efficiency.
Traditionally, architects and engineers
have relied on 2D blueprints and renderings
to communicate design intent.
The rise of Building Information Modeling
(BIM) has enabled the creation of
detailed 3D models, but AR and VR take
this a step further. Using VR headsets,
architects can now “walk through” a
virtual building months before it exists,
spotting design clashes, accessibility
issues, or aesthetic concerns early in
the process.
AR brings this capability on-site. Project
teams can use tablets, smartphones, or
smart glasses (such as Microsoft Holo-
Lens or Trimble XR10) to superimpose
3D models onto the real terrain, visualizing
exactly where walls, beams, or
utilities will be placed. This mixed-reality
approach dramatically improves spatial
understanding and can eliminate costly
design changes later. Software platforms
like Autodesk Revit, Unity Reflect, and
Bentley Systems’ SYNCHRO XR are now
standard tools for integrating BIM data
into AR/VR workflows.
Enhancing Design and Planning: From
Blueprints to Virtual Walkthroughs
In Dubai’s Museum of the Future project,
AR was used to overlay complex
façade geometry on the construction
site, ensuring precise installation of
custom panels and reducing rework.
Construction is inherently hazardous,
with risks ranging from falls to equipment
malfunctions. VR is transforming safety
training by providing risk-free simulations
of dangerous scenarios. Workers and
managers can experience, for example,
what a crane-overturn or electrical fault
might look like, practicing protocols in
a controlled setting. This leads to better-prepared
teams and safer construction
sites.
In the UAE, VR training is increasingly
mandated for workers on megaprojects.
The Abu Dhabi Department of Municipalities
and Transport, for example, has
piloted VR-based safety modules for
high-rise construction, certifying that
staff know procedures before entering
high-risk zones. Software like IrisVR and
Vrex allows companies to create custom
training environments tailored to local
regulations and site conditions.
Collaboration and Remote Work: Virtual
Meetings, Real Decisions
Large-scale projects often involve globally
distributed teams. AR/VR tools enable
stakeholders in different locations to
meet “inside” the building model. An
engineer in Abu Dhabi and an architect in
London can review a virtual construction
site together, mark up issues, and agree
on fixes in real time. This remote collaboration
accelerates decision-making and
reduces the need for costly site visits.
Platforms such as Trimble Connect and
The Wild allow multiple users to interact
within the same digital environment,
annotate models, and record meeting
outcomes. Even on smaller projects,
foremen can stream AR feeds from the
site to offsite experts, enabling quick
troubleshooting and support without
physical travel.
On-Site Assistance and Quality Control:
From Paper to Augmented Precision
AR is increasingly used for on-the-job
guidance and quality assurance. By
pointing a tablet or AR headset at the
construction area, workers see a 3D
blueprint overlay, guiding the placement
of beams, pipes, or electrical systems
with centimeter-level accuracy. This
reduces reliance on printed plans and
enhances precision.
Maintenance crews can use AR to “see
through walls,” identifying underlying
wiring or plumbing for repairs, reducing
the risk of accidental damage. Solutions
like VisualLive and DAQRI Worksense integrate
with existing BIM data, providing
real-time, context-aware instructions to
field teams.
Business Impact: Efficiency, Safety,
and Competitive Edge
Early adopters of AR/VR in construction
report tangible gains. According to a
report by McKinsey, immersive technologies
can reduce rework by up to 50%,
cut project delivery times by 10–15%,
and lower overall costs by 5–10%. For
real estate developers and contractors
in the UAE, where labor and material
costs are high—even small efficiency
improvements quickly pay dividends.
Implementing these technologies
can also give firms a marketing edge,
improve project transparency with clients,
and support sustainability goals by
minimizing waste. As clients increasingly
demand better cost efficiency and sustainability,
AR/VR adoption is becoming
a key differentiator in the competitive
We are committed to
integrating advanced
digital tools—including
AR and VR—across all
stages of construction
and asset management
to drive quality and
innovation in the UAE’s
built environment.”
H.E. Suhail Al Mazrouei,
UAE Minister of Energy and Infrastructure
construction market.
AR and VR are rapidly evolving from
experimental gadgets to essential construction
tools. Senior leaders should
start integrating these technologies into
project workflows—beginning with pilot
programs such as VR-based safety
training or AR-guided building handover
documentation. Partnering with tech providers
and investing in staff training will
ensure a smooth transition.
Executives should also monitor emerging
software platforms and hardware advancements,
as the pace of innovation
remains high. By immersing themselves
and their teams in virtual models, leaders
can foresee problems, train staff, and
ultimately deliver safer, higher-quality
projects on time and under budget.
June 2025 / 73

APP EXPRESS
LETTERBOXD
CONNECT WITH MOVIE LOVERS
Letterboxd is like a cozy digital diary for film buffs, blending
social networking with personal movie tracking in a way that
feels fresh and fun. With over 17 million downloads across
iOS and Android, it’s a cinephile’s dream app, boasting a 4.7-
star rating on the App Store. Letterboxd makes it effortless
to rate, review, and tag films, building a vibrant community
around shared tastes.
Letterboxd’s user-friendly interface features film posters
and personalized statistics, enhancing the movie-watching
experience. Its Pro subscription offers additional features
like ad-free browsing and notifications when films become
available on preferred streaming services.
What started during the pandemic as a way to connect
over shared film experiences has become the go-to place
for movie discovery. Whether you watch one film a month
or binge entire filmographies, Letterboxd turns your viewing
habits into a personal journey while connecting you with
people who share your cinematic obsessions. It’s genuinely
made watching movies more fun.
The platform has also attracted celebrities who share their
film preferences, adding a unique dimension to the community.
With its blend of social networking and film cataloging,
Letterboxd has become an essential tool for movie lovers
worldwide.
TAYASUI SKETCHES
DRAW WITH A SMILE
Tayasui Sketches is a beautifully crafted drawing app
that brings the feel of traditional art tools to your digital
canvas. Whether you’re a beginner doodler or a
seasoned illustrator, this app offers a seamless, intuitive
experience that makes sketching feel natural and enjoyable.
The app boasts over 20 realistic tools, including pencils,
watercolors, oil pastels, and airbrushes, all designed to mimic
their real-life counterparts. Features like layer support,
precision rulers, and a tracing projector enhance creative
flexibility, while the clean interface ensures you can focus
entirely on your art.
The numbers tell an incredible story, too. With over 5 million
downloads on Android alone and more than 20 million total
downloads across all platforms, Tayasui Sketches has built
a massive creative community. The app’s success comes
from understanding what artists need—professional tools
like layered PSD support, custom patterns, cloud sync, and
full Apple Pencil integration, all wrapped in an interface so
clean it disappears while you create.
Whether you’re sketching on your morning commute or
creating detailed illustrations on your iPad, Tayasui Sketches
adapts to your workflow. The free version offers serious
capabilities. While the Pro upgrade unlocks advanced features
that rival apps costing much more. It’s transformed
how people think about mobile creativity, proving that your
best canvas might just be the device already in your pocket.
74 \ June 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
BOLT
REQUEST A RIDE
What started as Taxify in 2013 has transformed into
something much bigger than just ride-hailing. Open
the Bolt app today, and you’ll find rides, food delivery,
grocery delivery, car rentals, e-scooters, and even package
delivery—all wrapped in one sleek interface. The company
operates in over 600 cities across 50 countries, making it
one of the world’s largest mobility platforms.
Bolt has positive reviews from its users, with a 4.8-star
rating on the App Store with 151,000 reviews and more than
100 million downloads on Android, holding a 4.8-star rating
with about 8 million reviews. Bolt is not only recognized as
one of the top transportation companies in the world, but it
also has fair prices and quick pickups, leading riders to forego
regular taxis and trust Bolt for their transportation needs.
What distinguishes Bolt from competitors is Bolt’s focus
on low-cost rides *without* sacrificing quality. Drivers are
vetted, rides are often lower than Bolt’s competitors, and
you know your fare right up front. Bolt gives you peace of
mind with safety features like emergency assistance, audio
recording of the trip, and tracking the driver throughout your
ride; and the option to schedule rides up to 90 days in ad-
vance is a great feature for airport transfers and significant
appointments.
Bolt isn’t just shifting the methods of transportation—it’s
making a more significant difference in urban mobility.
GURU APP
YOUR AI SOURCE OF TRUTH
Guru integrates seamlessly with tools like Slack, Microsoft
Teams, and Salesforce, allowing you to access verified
knowledge without switching contexts. Its browser
extension and mobile app ensure that vital information is
always at your fingertips, whether you’re at your desk or
on the move.
One of Guru’s standout features is its verification system,
which prompts experts to regularly update content, ensuring
that your team’s knowledge base remains current and reliable.
This is particularly beneficial for customer-facing teams who
need accurate information to respond to inquiries promptly.
On the App Store, Guru has a 3.6-star rating based on
39 reviews. While this rating might seem modest, it’s worth
noting that the app is primarily designed for enterprise use,
and many users access it through web or desktop platforms.
In terms of downloads, the Android version of Guru has
over 10,000 downloads. Again, this number reflects the app’s
niche focus on business productivity rather than mass-market
appeal.
Users have praised Guru for its intuitive interface and the
ability to quickly find and share information. However, some
have noted areas for improvement, such as occasional syncing
issues and the need for more robust offline access.
Overall, if your organization is looking to streamline knowledge
sharing and reduce the time spent searching for information,
Guru offers a compelling solution. Its focus on
verified, easily accessible knowledge can enhance team
productivity and ensure that everyone has the information
they need to succeed.
June 2025 / 75

Internet of Things
SMART
RETROFITTING:
AI AND IOT REVAMPING UAE’S
INFRASTRUCTURE
Facing ambitious 2030 climate goals, the UAE is rushing
to modernize its existing buildings. Government programs
aim to retrofit tens of thousands of old structures, and
private owners are adopting sensors, analytics, and AI to
cut energy use. Smart retrofits—from automated HVAC
controls to predictive maintenance—are now seen as
revenue-generating upgrades.
The UAE’s skyline is a showcase
of modern engineering, but beneath
the gleaming towers lies a
challenge: most of the Gulf’s built environment
predates today’s energy and
sustainability standards. Older offices,
malls, and government buildings in Dubai
and Abu Dhabi often consume far more
energy and water than their modern counterparts.
Policymakers have identified
this inefficiency as a top challenge and
opportunity. Dubai’s Supreme Council
of Energy has set a target to retrofit
30,000 buildings by 2030, aiming for
deep cuts in energy and water use and
a meaningful reduction in carbon emissions.
Abu Dhabi’s retrofit program, part
76 \ June 2025

of its Demand Side Management and
Energy Rationalisation Strategy, targets a
22% reduction in electricity use across
government and commercial buildings,
with some buildings expected to save
up to 40%.
These efforts are driven by the UAE’s
net-zero ambitions and interim climate
targets, such as a 40% emissions reduction
by 2030. As Faisal Rashid, Senior
Director at the Supreme Council of Energy,
notes, “This will be a promising step
towards improving energy efficiency of
existing building stocks, decarbonizing
existing buildings and moving closer to
the UAE’s net-zero targets”.
Economics of Smart Retrofitting: From
Cost Center to Value Driver
For building owners, the economics of
retrofitting have shifted dramatically. What
was once seen as a cost burden is now
a compelling investment. Upgrading insulation,
HVAC, and lighting can slash
operating expenses by 20–30%. More
importantly, the latest “smart” retrofits
layer on technology: IoT sensors, machine-learning
energy management,
and advanced analytics can squeeze
out even greater savings, sometimes
over 40%.
A typical smart retrofit might include:
1. AI-driven HVAC optimization: Cloudbased
control systems adjust cooling
based on occupancy and weather, reducing
energy use by up to 40%.
2. Predictive maintenance: Algorithms
schedule equipment tune-ups before
failures occur, extending system life
and minimizing downtime.
3. Smart lighting and motion sensors:
Automated systems reduce unnecessary
usage and improve comfort.
4. Centralized building management
platforms: These integrate real-time
data from across the property, enabling
continuous performance tuning.
The business case is clear: reduced
utility bills, higher asset value, and improved
tenant satisfaction. As Dr. Waleed
Alnuaimi, CEO of Etihad ESCO, explains,
“We are proud of our active role in making
Dubai one of the most sustainable cities
globally, through pioneering projects that
promote energy efficiency and generate
long-term financial and environmental
savings”.
Major Initiatives and Private Sector
Momentum
The UAE’s retrofit drive is not just a government
mandate, it is backed by major
public and private investments. In late
2024, Siemens signed a USD 10 million
contract with the Ministry of Energy and
Infrastructure to retrofit 60 government
buildings with IoT sensors and automation,
targeting a 27% reduction in energy
and water use. Pilot projects in ministry
buildings have already delivered about
20% resource savings, demonstrating
rapid payback and scalability.
Etihad ESCO, a subsidiary of DEWA, has
completed Dubai’s first energy savings
performance contract (ESPC), retrofitting
multiple DEWA facilities and achieving
savings of 35 GWh of electricity and 2.8
million imperial gallons of water over six
years, while reducing nearly 1,500 tonnes
of CO2 emissions. The company’s work
with Wasl Properties, retrofitting 243
buildings, saved AED 15 million annually
through upgraded air conditioning and
lighting systems.
Private sector adoption is also accelerating.
Energy Performance Contracting
(EPC) models, where companies guarantee
efficiency gains and share savings,
are increasingly popular. Banks and ESG
funds are supporting these projects,
drawn by the long-term returns and
alignment with sustainability mandates.
Regulation and Digital Transformation:
The Role of AI and IoT
Regulation is a powerful driver. Dubai
and Abu Dhabi now require energy audits
and set minimum performance standards
for existing buildings. Properties may
soon need digital dashboards to report
consumption in real time, creating fertile
ground for AI and IoT solutions.
AI-enabled management platforms
allow buildings to “adapt dynamically”
to conditions, slashing waste by reacting
instantaneously to changes. For example,
climate-responsive controls might dim
lights and adjust HVAC settings based
on occupancy and external temperature,
preserving comfort while trimming costs.
Schneider Electric notes that while hardware
upgrades can deliver up to 20%
efficiency gains, digital tools like IoT
sensors and integrated building management
systems can achieve up to
40% improvements.
A comprehensive approach is key. As
AESG’s Nicholas Byczynski notes, “addressing
both operational and embodied
carbon is critical to achieving net-zero
targets.” Deep retrofitting, smart design,
and whole-life carbon assessment are
now best practice.
thetechnologyexpress.com
The Ministry’s strategy
encompasses a holistic
approach to the sustainable
development of key
industries like energy,
infrastructure, real
estate, and transportation.”
H.E. Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei,
Minister of Energy and Infrastructure
Collaboration and the Path Forward
The UAE’s retrofit revolution is a collaborative
effort. Government, private
sector, and technology providers must
work together to overcome barriers such
as upfront costs and technical complexity.
The Emirates Green Building Council
emphasizes the need for clear policies,
innovative financing, and robust data
collection to maximize retrofitting’s
potential.
Smart retrofitting is emerging as a
strategic win-win in the UAE, aligning
government climate targets with private-sector
incentives. For corporate
real estate leaders, the message is clear:
treating old buildings as digital platforms
pays dividends. By incorporating AI-driven
monitoring and control, owners can cut
operating expenses, often by 30–50%,
and future-proof assets against stricter
regulations. Forward-looking firms are
partnering with tech providers and ES-
COs to upgrade automation and instrumentation,
using data to continuously
refine performance. As the region races
toward 2050 net-zero, these retrofits are
transforming today’s energy guzzlers into
smarter, more sustainable properties.
June 2025 / 77

GADGET REVIEWs
XIAOMI 15 ULTRA
THE SUPER LEICA PHONE
The Xiaomi 15 Ultra, launched in
February 2025, stands as a testament
to Xiaomi’s commitment to
pushing the boundaries of smartphone
technology. Designed with photography
enthusiasts in mind, this flagship device
combines cutting-edge hardware with
sophisticated software to deliver an
unparalleled mobile experience.
At the heart of the Xiaomi 15 Ultra is
the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, built
on a 3nm process, ensuring top-tier performance
and energy efficiency. Complementing
this is a generous 16GB of
LPDDR5X RAM and up to 1TB of UFS
4.1 storage, providing ample space and
speed for all your applications and media.
The device boasts a 6.73-inch LTPO
AMOLED curved display with a resolution
of 3200 x 1440 pixels, supporting a 120
Hz refresh rate and reaching peak bright-
ness levels of up to 3,200 nits, making
it ideal for both indoor and outdoor use.
Photography is where the Xiaomi 15
Ultra truly shines. Developed in collaboration
with Leica, the quad-camera setup
includes a 50MP main sensor, a 200MP
periscope telephoto lens, a 50MP ultra-wide
lens, and a 50MP portrait lens.
This versatile array allows for stunning
photography in various scenarios, from
wide landscapes to detailed close-ups.
The device also supports 8K video recording
and advanced stabilization features,
catering to both photographers
and videographers.
Battery life is robust, thanks to the
5,410mAh silicon-carbon battery, which
supports 90W wired charging and 80W
wireless charging. This ensures that users
can quickly recharge and stay connected
throughout the day. Running on Xiaomi’s
HyperOS 2.0, based on Android 15, the
user interface is smooth and intuitive,
offering a seamless experience.
In terms of design, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra
exudes elegance with its premium
materials and finishes, including options
like Silver Chrome. The device is also
IP68 rated for water and dust resistance,
adding to its durability. Priced
at approximately €1,499 in Europe, it
positions itself as a premium offering
in the smartphone market.
In conclusion, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra is
a powerhouse of a smartphone that
excels in performance, photography,
and design. While its price point may
be on the higher end, the features and
capabilities it offers make it a worthy
investment for those seeking a top-tier
mobile experience.
78 \ June 2025

NVIDIA GEFORCE RTX 50 SERIES
POWERING ADVANCED AI
thetechnologyexpress.com
NVIDIA’s GeForce RTX 50 Series, launched in early 2025,
marks a significant advancement in GPU technology,
building upon the Blackwell architecture to deliver enhanced
performance for gamers and creators alike.
The flagship RTX 5090 boasts 24,576 CUDA cores and
32GB of GDDR7 memory, offering up to 280 teraflops of ray
tracing performance. This translates to exceptional capabilities
in 4K gaming and AI-driven applications. The RTX 5080,
with 16GB of GDDR7 memory, provides a balance between
performance and cost, delivering up to twice the speed of
its predecessor, the RTX 4080.
Beyond raw performance, the RTX 50 Series introduces
several revolutionary features. DLSS 4 technology with AI
multi-frame generation can boost frame rates up to 2x over
DLSS 3 while maintaining superior image quality. The new
Neural Shaders bring small neural networks into programmable
shaders, opening new possibilities for graphics innovation.
An AI management processor enables multiple AI models to
share GPU resources simultaneously with graphics workloads.
The Blackwell architecture incorporates 4th Generation
RT Cores for enhanced ray tracing, 5th Generation Tensor
Cores with new FP4 capabilities that double AI throughput
while halving memory requirements, and improved power
management with advanced power gating. The transition to
GDDR7 memory across the series provides higher bandwidth
and improved energy efficiency.
Pricing starts at $2,000 for the RTX 5090, with availability
beginning April 16, 2025. While NVIDIA’s performance claims
may be somewhat hyperbolic, the RTX 50 Series represents
a genuine advancement in GPU technology, particularly for
users seeking cutting-edge AI features and high-resolution
gaming performance.
DYSON COOL CF1
NO BLADES. NO CHOPPY AIR.
The Dyson Cool CF1 marks the long-awaited return and
significant upgrade of Dyson’s iconic bladeless fan,
first introduced over 15 years ago. This 2025 release
brings the classic Air Multiplier technology into a compact,
desk-friendly form with a host of modern features designed
for both performance and convenience.
At its core, the Cool CF1 uses Dyson’s patented Air Multiplier
technology, which amplifies surrounding air up to 13 times,
producing a smooth, uninterrupted stream of airflow. This
results in a powerful output of up to 370 liters per second,
offering fast and effective cooling without the buffeting or
uneven air typical of traditional bladed fans. The bladeless
design is not just a visual statement; it’s also safer for households
with children and pets and much easier to clean since
there are no grilles or blades to collect dust.
The CF1’s design has evolved from the original tall tower
to a more compact, rounded shape, making it suitable
for desktops, bedside tables, or any modern living space.
Its minimalist appearance is complemented by a new LCD
screen, which provides clear feedback on the current mode,
fan speed, and oscillation settings. Speaking of settings,
the CF1 offers 10 precise speed levels and three oscillation
angles, 15°, 40°, and 70°, allowing users to tailor airflow
exactly as needed.
One of the standout features is the enhanced Night Mode.
This mode dims the display and reduces fan speed to ensure
whisper-quiet operation, registering just 29 decibels at its
lowest setting. Combined with a sleep timer that can be
set from 30 minutes up to 8 hours, the CF1 is particularly
well-suited for bedrooms and light sleepers. Even at full power,
the fan remains impressively quiet, thanks to its acoustically
engineered motor and Helmholtz silencer.
June 2025 / 79

PropTech
THE ULTIMATE
PROPTECH GUIDE FOR
2025:
HOW TECHNOLOGY IS RESHAPING
REAL ESTATE AND CONSTRUCTION
This comprehensive guide explores the cutting-edge
technologies transforming real estate and construction
in 2025. From AI-driven predictive analytics revolutionizing
investment decisions to digital twins optimizing building
management, we examine how these innovations are
creating unprecedented business value while addressing
sustainability challenges. Discover the technologies
reshaping the industry landscape and providing competitive
advantages for forward-thinking executives.
The real estate and construction
industries have historically been
slow technology adopters, but
this paradigm has shifted dramatically
in recent years. Digital transformation
is no longer optional but essential for
competitiveness in the property sector.
According to recent industry reports,
the UAE PropTech market alone is forecasted
to reach USD 1,558.62 million by
2028, highlighting the explosive growth
in this sector.
80 \ June 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
Digital transformation in real estate
integrates technology into all operational
aspects, fundamentally changing how the
industry delivers value. The purpose is
leveraging technology to meet evolving
tenant expectations, reduce operational
costs, and maintain competitiveness in a
rapidly changing market. For executives,
understanding these technological shifts
isn’t just about staying current—it’s about
strategic positioning in an increasingly
digitized property ecosystem.
Top PropTech Trends Reshaping the
Industry in 2025
Sustainability Technologies Lead the
Way
With increasing environmental awareness,
sustainability has become a top priority in
PropTech development. Green building
technologies, including energy-efficient
systems, water-saving devices, and intelligent
waste management solutions, are
contributing significantly to sustainability
goals while simultaneously lowering operating
costs. These technologies appeal
strongly to environmentally conscious
residents and investors, creating both
ecological and financial benefits.
Renewable energy integration represents
another critical trend, with Prop-
Tech facilitating the incorporation of solar
panels, wind turbines, and other clean
energy sources into building design and
operations. Property owners are now
monetizing their assets by leasing land,
rooftops, and parking lots for renewable
energy production, a trend expected
to continue due to new incentives for
clean energy development.
AI and Predictive Analytics Transform
Decision-Making
Artificial intelligence and machine learning
are revolutionizing real estate analytics
by enabling predictive models
that make investment and management
decisions more precise. These sophisticated
tools analyze massive datasets,
including market trends, property prices,
neighborhood data, and environmental
risks, to forecast changes and identify
opportunities.
AI-powered predictive analytics is
particularly valuable for property management,
assessing factors like tenant
behavior, energy usage, and infrastructure
wear to anticipate maintenance
needs. This proactive approach allows
managers to perform repairs before systems
fail, significantly reducing costs
and improving tenant satisfaction. The
application of AI extends beyond maintenance
to marketing, tenant screening,
and operational optimization, creating
unprecedented efficiencies across the
property lifecycle.
Digital Twins Create Virtual Building
Replicas
The concept of Digital Twins, virtual replicas
of physical properties updated in
real-time, has gained significant traction
in real estate. Using IoT sensors, these
virtual models provide detailed insights
into everything from energy usage and
HVAC performance to security systems
and occupancy rates2.
For property developers and managers,
digital twins enable enhanced monitoring
and efficiency through real-time
assessments and remote management
capabilities. They help identify inefficiencies,
optimize systems, and plan
modifications with precision previously
impossible. This technology represents
a fundamental shift in how buildings are
understood and managed, enabling data-driven
decision-making across all operational
aspects.
Cybersecurity and Risk Management
in PropTech
As real estate becomes increasingly
digitized, cybersecurity has emerged
as a critical concern. With more transactions
conducted digitally, protecting
sensitive data has become a top priority
for PropTech companies. The integration
of smart building systems, digital access
controls, and IoT devices creates new
attack vectors that must be secured
against increasingly sophisticated threats.
Beyond direct cybersecurity concerns,
AI integration introduces additional
considerations regarding data
privacy, intellectual property protection,
and regulatory compliance. Companies
implementing AI solutions must understand
their responsibilities as “AI users/
deployers” and navigate the practical,
ethical, and regulatory implications of
these technologies.
Critical questions for executives include
understanding how AI models are
trained and stored, how proprietary data
is used and protected, and whether technology
providers comply with regulations
like GDPR and the emerging EU AI Act.
Establishing robust data governance
frameworks and responsible use policies
has become essential for risk management
in PropTech implementations.
Implementation Strategies for Prop-
Tech Success
Successful PropTech implementation
requires strategic planning beyond the
technology itself. For executives considering
digital transformation initiatives,
several key considerations should guide
the process:
1. Strategic alignment: Technology
investments should address specific
business objectives rather than implementing
technology for its own sake.
2. Talent and culture: Successful digital
transformation requires both technical
expertise and an organizational culture
that embraces innovation and data-driven
decision-making.
3. Data strategy: PropTech effectiveness
depends on high-quality data.
Organizations should invest in data infrastructure,
cleansing processes, and
integration capabilities.
4. Partner selection: The PropTech ecosystem
includes numerous vendors and
solutions. Selecting the right partners
based on strategic fit, technical capabilities,
and long-term viability is critical.
5. Regulatory compliance: With the
evolving regulatory landscape for technologies
like AI, ensuring compliance with
emerging standards should be central
to implementation planning.
The Executive Imperative for PropTech
Leadership
For real estate and construction executives,
the PropTech revolution represents
both opportunity and imperative. Organizations
that successfully implement
these technologies gain significant
competitive advantages in operational
efficiency, customer experience, and
market insight. Conversely, those failing
to adapt risk obsolescence in an
increasingly digital property landscape.
The key to success lies not merely
in technology adoption but in strategic
transformation that leverages these tools
to create meaningful business value. By
understanding the PropTech landscape,
identifying high-impact opportunities, and
implementing with strategic purpose,
forward-thinking executives can position
their organizations at the forefront of
real estate’s digital future.
June 2025 / 81

DRIVE TO THE FUTURE
DE TOMASO P72:
A Modern Classic Reimagined
Based on the De Tomaso P70 designed by Alejandro De Tomaso and Carroll Shelby in 1965,
the P72 carries forward the passion behind great car design from the past.
82 \ June 2025

thetechnologyexpress.com
305 Sec
0-100 km/h
With its sleek outline and classic
methods, the P72 shows
respect for the 1960s, when
both the design and the driving of
cars mattered most. First introduced
in concept form at the 2019 Festival
of Speed, the P72 is now ready for the
public, looking exactly as planned.
P72 lies a supercharged 5.0-liter
V8 engine, anxiously hand-assembled
with bespoke artificial internals and
a De Tomaso-specific supercharger.
This assertive engine delivers an appalling
700 horsepower and 820 Nm
(approximately 604 lb-ft) of torque,
channeled alone through a six-speed
gearbox.
The focus, however, is not on outright
top speed but on delivering a visceral,
engaging drive with short gear
ratios that prioritize mid-range acceleration
and throttle response.
Paired with a 1960s-inspired header
design, the P72’s V8 becomes a living
instrument, raw and expressive. There
are no drive modes, no shortcuts—
just the road, the engine, and the driver
in perfect harmony.
820 Nm
Torque
Beneath the carbon monocoque is
a push-rod suspension system, developed
to deliver a decidedly classical
driving feel. The 3-way manually
adjustable damping system enables
drivers to tailor the car’s behaviour to
their preference. Complemented by
a low-drag aerodynamic profile, the
P72 rewards familiarity. Each journey
becomes a dialogue between balance
and bravery, precision and play.
In an age where paddle shifters and
dual-clutch automatics dominate, the
P72’s exclusive use of a six-speed
manual gearbox is a bold statement of
intent, aimed squarely at purists who
value driver engagement above all
else.
The absence of drive modes, electronic
overlays, and infotainment systems
ensures a direct, unmediated
connection between driver and car.
This analogue approach is increasingly
rare and highly sought after by enthusiasts.
Each P72 is highly customizable,
with a focus on artisanal detail
both inside and out, making every example
a unique work of art.
700 HP
Horse Power
“The P72 was our promise to faithfully
revive a historic marque,” says
Norman Choi, CEO of De Tomaso Automobili.
“This first production-specification
vehicle embodies everything
we stand for: a mechanical soul, timeless
beauty, and a driving experience
that rises above modern convention.
It is our echo through time—now made
real.”
With only 72 units planned, exclusivity
is guaranteed, further enhancing
its appeal to collectors and connoisseurs.
Custodian deliveries will commence
in late 2025, marking the beginning of
a new chapter—one where heritage
and modern craftsmanship meet on
the open road.
Not only is the De Tomaso P72 a
hypercar, but it also celebrates how
classic motoring works, redesigned
with current technology. The P72’s incredible
look, solid motor, and simple
running make it an inspiration for those
who truly enjoy the direct interaction
between someone and their car.
June 2025 / 83

STARTUP Spotlight
HOLO
CO-FOUNDERS: MICHAEL HUNTER,
ARRAN SUMMERHILL
YEAR STARTED: 2020
Holo is the UAE’s first fully digital
home-buying platform, revolutionizing
the property purchase
experience by making it faster, more
transparent, and entirely online. Headquartered
in Dubai, Holo empowers
buyers to secure mortgage approvals,
compare lenders, and complete property
transactions through a seamless digital
interface. By eliminating traditional paperwork
and in-person meetings, Holo
streamlines the home-buying journey,
enabling users to receive instant eligibility
checks and personalized mortgage
offers within minutes.
The platform’s advanced algorithms
and partnerships with leading banks
ensure competitive rates and tailored
solutions for both first-time buyers and
seasoned investors. Holo’s commitment
to transparency is reflected in its clear
fee structures, real-time application
tracking, and educational resources that
guide users through every step of the
process. Licensed by the relevant UAE
financial authorities, Holo upholds strict
standards of security and compliance,
earning the trust of thousands of users.
As the UAE’s property market continues
to digitize, Holo is expanding its
services to include refinancing, property
insurance, and cross-border transactions.
Its long-term vision is to build a
fully integrated digital ecosystem for real
estate, leveraging AI and blockchain to
further enhance efficiency, security,
and accessibility. Holo is setting new
benchmarks for convenience and innovation
in the region’s real estate sector,
empowering buyers.
PROCURIFIED
CO-FOUNDERS: AHMED AL
MUSALMI, MOHAMED BASHA
YEAR STARTED: 2020
Procurified is reshaping how modern
businesses manage procurement
with its smart, cloud-based platform
built to simplify purchasing workflows
and enforce better spend control. The
UAE-based startup has created a solution
that tackles outdated procurement practices
often plagued by manual processes,
lack of transparency, and poor budget
tracking. Its platform enables businesses
to automate requests, approvals, and
vendor communication, all from a centralised
dashboard, resulting in significant
time and cost savings. Real-time
visibility across departments ensures
that financial decisions are based on
accurate, up-to-date information.
The platform is customisable and easily
integrates with major ERP and finance
systems, making it a viable solution
for SMEs and large enterprises alike.
84 \ June 2025
Features such as role-based permissions,
budget forecasting, and supplier
rating tools further increase its value
to procurement teams. Procurified is
particularly popular among companies
in logistics, hospitality, healthcare, and
manufacturing, where supply chains and
vendor management require precision.
Procurified is particularly popular
among companies in logistics, hospitality,
healthcare, and manufacturing,
sectors where procurement complexity,
multi-location operations, and supply
chain precision are critical. Its ability to
handle multi-currency, multi-entity operations
makes it especially attractive
to regional firms with global ambitions.
As businesses across the MENA region
and beyond embrace digital transformation,
Procurified is positioned as a
key enabler of operational excellence,
helping organisations scale efficiently
and reduce procurement risks.

thetechnologyexpress.com
HUSPY
CO-FOUNDERS: JAD ANTOUN,
KHALID ALAHMAD
YEAR STARTED: 2020
Huspy is transforming the home-buying
journey by unifying property
search and mortgage services into
a single, tech-enabled platform. Based
in the UAE, the startup addresses the
complex, disjointed process of purchasing
a home by offering a streamlined,
digital-first solution. Through Huspy’s
platform, users can browse property listings,
compare mortgage options, and
get pre-approved loans, all in one place.
The result is a transparent, faster, and
less stressful experience for homebuyers.
The company partners with leading
banks, real estate agents, and mortgage
brokers to offer a broad spectrum of
services tailored to customer needs.
Huspy also supports real estate professionals
with a suite of business tools
designed to improve customer management
and transaction efficiency. With
a strong emphasis on user experience,
the platform is designed to be intuitive,
secure, and responsive. Its backend
analytics tools help stakeholders make
smarter, data-informed decisions.
Beyond catering to homebuyers, Huspy
also supports real estate professionals
with a comprehensive suite of business
tools designed to improve customer
management, transaction tracking, and
overall efficiency. These tools allow
agents and brokers to streamline their
workflow, reduce administrative burdens,
and enhance client engagement. With a
strong emphasis on user experience, the
platform is engineered to be intuitive,
secure, and mobile-responsive, ensuring
access anytime, anywhere.
PROTENDERS
CO-FOUNDERS: KARIM HELAL,
NADER ABOUCHALA
YEAR STARTED: 2011
ProTenders is a B2B construction
technology platform revolutionising
how projects are discovered,
sourced, and managed across the MENA
region. Designed to bring transparency
and efficiency to the traditionally opaque
construction tendering process, Pro-
Tenders offers a full digital toolkit for
developers, contractors, suppliers, and
consultants. The platform hosts detailed
project intelligence, secure eTendering
workflows, supplier directories, and
advanced analytics—enabling smarter
decision-making at every stage.
Its searchable database spans thousands
of active and completed construction
projects, giving users competitive
insights into market trends and upcoming
opportunities. Procurement officers
can issue tenders, receive digital bids,
and evaluate vendors seamlessly. Pro-
Tenders is also a valuable lead generation
platform, used by suppliers to access
verified project data and connect with
potential partners. The company supports
digital transformation within one
of the region’s most traditional sectors
by aligning technology with real business
needs.
By aligning technology with the real
business needs of construction professionals,
ProTenders is driving digital
transformation in one of the region’s
most traditional and paper-intensive
industries. With a growing user base
and continued product innovation, the
platform is well-positioned to lead the
region’s transition towards smarter, more
connected construction processes.
As governments and private developers
across the MENA region increase
their infrastructure investments, platforms
like ProTenders will play an increasingly
pivotal role in ensuring that project
delivery is efficient, transparent, and
future-ready.
June 2025 / 85

Digital Transformation
WORKSPACE 2025:
TECH-ENABLED SPACES FOR THE
NEW WAY WE WORK
Technology is reshaping commercial real estate by enabling
flexible, hybrid workspaces powered by smart building
systems, IoT sensors, and AI-driven analytics. In the UAE,
digital tools enhance space utilization, sustainability, and
occupant experience, helping landlords and tenants optimize
operations while meeting evolving workforce demands
and sustainability goals in the post-pandemic era.
The world of commercial real estate
is undergoing a seismic transformation.
The workplace is no longer
just a physical location, it’s a dynamic,
tech-enabled ecosystem where flexibility,
connectivity, and user experience are
paramount. As we approach 2025, the
UAE and global markets are witnessing
the rise of hybrid work, smart buildings,
and data-driven management, all powered
by a new generation of digital tools.
For developers, landlords, and occupiers,
understanding and investing in
these technologies is now a business
imperative.
86 \ June 2025

Smart Buildings: The Rise of the Digital
Office
The pandemic accelerated a shift that
was already underway: employees want
flexibility, and companies want efficiency.
Hybrid work models, where staff split
time between home and office, are now
mainstream. This has led to a rethinking
of office layouts, with a move away from
assigned desks toward activity-based
zones, collaborative hubs, and quiet
pods. Technology is the backbone of
this new approach. Mobile apps allow
employees to book desks, meeting
rooms, or even parking spaces in real
time. Smart sensors track occupancy
and usage, enabling facility managers
to optimize layouts and reduce unused
space. In Dubai, leading developers such
as Emaar and Aldar are piloting “office
as a service” platforms, offering tenants
customizable, tech-enabled environments
that adapt to changing needs.
Smart buildings are at the heart of
the future of the workspace in 2025.
These structures are embedded with
Internet of Things (IoT) devices, AI-driven
management systems, and cloud-based
controls that monitor and adjust everything
from lighting and HVAC to security
and energy consumption.
For example, Dubai’s ICD Brookfield
Place, one of the region’s most advanced
office towers, features an integrated
building management system that uses
real-time data to optimize comfort and
efficiency. Tenants can control lighting
and temperature from their phones, while
AI algorithms adjust settings based on
occupancy and weather. The result: lower
energy costs, improved sustainability,
and a better experience for users.
In Abu Dhabi, Aldar Properties has
launched “smart leases,” where tenants
can access digital dashboards showing
real-time energy use, maintenance
requests, and space utilization. This
transparency empowers occupiers to
make data-driven decisions and supports
ESG (Environmental, Social, and
Governance) reporting.
Seamless Experience: Integrating Digital
and Physical Worlds
The office of the future is not just smart,
it’s responsive. Heat maps generated by
occupancy sensors reveal how spaces
are actually used, informing design
tweaks that boost productivity and
wellbeing. If a meeting room is rarely
booked, it might be converted into a
lounge or creative zone. If a particular
Smart buildings and
digital infrastructure
are central to the UAE’s
vision for sustainable
economic growth. We are
committed to creating
flexible, technology-driven
workspaces
that attract global
talent and investment.”
H.E. Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi,
UAE Minister of State for Foreign
Trade
floor is underused, it can be sublet or
repurposed.
AI and analytics platforms, such as
Mapiq and VergeSense, are gaining
traction in the UAE market. These tools
provide granular insights into space utilization,
air quality, and even employee
sentiment, helping landlords and tenants
make continuous improvements. The
result is a more agile, cost-effective,
and attractive workplace.
Workspace 2025 is about more than
efficiency, it’s about experience. Employees
expect seamless transitions
between remote and in-person work,
with frictionless access to resources.
Mobile apps are central to this, offering
thetechnologyexpress.com
one-stop solutions for booking, navigation,
and support.
In Dubai’s Emirates Towers, for example,
a new tenant app allows users
to reserve desks, order food, access
building services, and receive personalized
notifications, all from their smartphones.
Touchless entry systems, facial
recognition, and digital visitor management
further enhance convenience and
security.
For landlords, these digital touchpoints
are not just amenities, they’re sources
of valuable data that can inform leasing
strategies, amenities planning, and tenant
engagement.
Sustainability and Wellbeing: Tech for
a Greener, Healthier Office
Sustainability is a top priority for UAE
developers and regulators. Smart building
systems monitor and reduce energy and
water use, supporting the UAE’s Net
Zero 2050 goals. Air quality sensors,
circadian lighting, and wellness apps
are now standard features in premium
office spaces.
The Dubai Supreme Council of Energy’s
Green Building Regulations and Abu
Dhabi’s Estidama Pearl Rating System set
benchmarks for energy efficiency and
occupant health. Landlords who invest
in these technologies not only reduce
costs and emissions but also attract
top tenants and command higher rents.
As we approach 2025, the commercial
real estate sector is undergoing
a profound transformation driven by
technology. The traditional office is
evolving into a dynamic, tech-enabled
environment that supports hybrid work
models, enhances occupant experience,
and optimizes operational efficiency. In
the UAE, this shift aligns with national
priorities around sustainability, innovation,
and economic diversification. Smart
buildings equipped with IoT sensors and
AI-powered management systems enable
real-time monitoring and adaptation of
lighting, temperature, and space utilization,
reducing energy consumption
and improving comfort. Mobile apps and
digital platforms empower employees
to customize their workspace, book
resources on demand, and seamlessly
transition between remote and in-office
work. For landlords and developers,
these technologies offer valuable data
insights that inform leasing strategies,
tenant engagement, and asset management,
ultimately driving higher returns
and tenant satisfaction.
June 2025 / 87

MOROCCO
Organised by:
MIE EVENTS DMCC
www.mieevents.com
3 rd
Edition
AGRI-FOOD SECTOR
19 - 21
November
2025
DRIVING SUSTAINABLE
GROWTH IN AFRICA’S
La Foire Internationale
de Casablanca, Morocco
KEY SECTORS
Food Ingredients &
Specialty Products
Food Processing &
Manufacturing
Beverages &
Functional Drinks
Plant-Based &
Alternative Proteins
Food Safety &
Quality Assurance
Smart Agriculture
& Farming
Sustainable Food
Packaging &
Labeling
Food Supply Chain
& Logistics
Regional
Specialties
EXHIBIT TODAY!
REGISTER NOW
BOOK A STAND
www.afsmorocco.com
STRATEGIC PARTNERS
SUPPORTING PARTNERS
MEDIA PARTNERS

ESTABLISH YOUR
COMMERCIAL AND PARTNERSHIPS
Abhinay Bhartiya
abhinay@mcfillmedia.com
+971 58 596 4066
Sakshi Lalwani
sakshi@magzoid.com
+971 58 596 6036
CONTENT AND CAMPAIGNS
Ashish Kumar
ashish@mcfillmedia.com
+971 58 587 9099
Mommina Asif
momminah@mcfillmedia.com
+971 58 582 1006
POWERING IDEAS. SHAPING CONVERSATIONS. DELIVERING RESULTS.

Discount Your Invoices
and Receivables Now
APPLY ONLINE!
info@ifundfactoring.com
www.iFundFactoring.com
iFund