Finance World Magazine

Dubai Islands: A New Magnet for Global Investors

Top Innovations from GITEX Global 2025

Planning the Future: Opportunities in the new "Mini-City"

Inside the UAE’s Airport Revolution in Digital Payments

November 2025

Exit when you’re protecting

territory. Double down when

you’re creating it.”

DANA LOVE

President and Chairman,

PoobahAI

$750 MILLION

EXIT ARCHITECT:

PoobahAI’s Blueprint for Autonomous Economy

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Private Wealth, Public Impact: The Next Chapter for Family Offices

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Dubai Islands: A New Magnet for Global Investors

Top Innovations from GITEX Global 2025

Exit when you’re protecting

territory. Double down when

you’re creating it.”

DANA LOVE


PoobahAI

Planning the Future: Opportunities in the new "Mini-City"

Inside the UAE’s Airport Revolution in Digital Payments

November 2025

$750 MILLION

EXIT ARCHITECT:

PoobahAI’s Blueprint for Autonomous Economy

STAY CONNECTED

WITH OUR LATEST

BUSINESS NEWS

Dr. Ali Asgar Fakhruddin,

Chairman,

Sterling Perfumes Industries

Scent

Legacy

GLOBAL BENCHMARK CARRIED FORWARD

Our generation sees

marketing as a two-way

dialogue, not a monologue.”

Hamza Fakhruddin

Managing Partner,

Sterling Perfumes Industries

POWER ISSUES

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WOMEN

OF THE

UAE

2025

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Editor’s Note Note

EDITORIAL

Ambrish Agarwal, ambrish@thefinanceworld.com

Ayushi Sharma, ayushi@mcfillmedia.com

DESIGN

Hamza Khan, hamza@mcfillmedia.com

STUDIO AND PRODUCTION EDITORIAL

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One way to keep momentum going is

to constantly have greater goals.

Editor’s Note

As the UAE continues its trajectory from regional

hub to global innovation epicentre, this November

edition of Finance World, “Shaping the Next Economy:

UAE’s Innovation and Investment Agenda,” captures a

pivotal moment where artificial intelligence, blockchain,

and autonomous systems are redefining how capital flows,

deploys, and compounds across digital infrastructure. From

the blockchain revolution transforming asset tokenization

to the emergence of autonomous agents as independent

economic actors, the Emirates has positioned itself at the

intersection of tomorrow’s financial innovation.

Our cover story this month, “The $750 Million Exit Architect:

Dana Love and PoobahAI’s Blueprint for the Autonomous

Economy,” features an exclusive interview with Dana

Love, President and Chairman of PoobahAI, whose five

successful company exits totalling over $750 million reveal

a masterclass in reading market signals, understanding

technology convergence, and reallocating capital to the next

wave before the current one crests.

This edition explores how the UAE is shaping the next economy

through innovation and investment across multiple sectors.

From GITEX Global 2025’s breakthrough announcements in

AI and quantum computing, to the UAE’s emerging role as

a tokenization leadership hub attracting global institutional

capital, the investment landscape is maturing rapidly.

The question is no longer whether AI agents will operate

independently on blockchains, it’s when institutional capital

will flood into infrastructure enabling that future. The answer

is now. The roadmap for that future is being written in the

Emirates today.

FEEDBACK & SUGGESTIONS

Ayaz Ahmed

The Publisher has taken all reasonable +971 55 steps 889 5917, to ensure feedback@mcfillmedia.com

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 The Publisher expressed has do taken not all necessarily reasonable steps reflect to ensure those the of The accuracy of the

Publisher. Readers are content encouraged at the time to seek of publication. professional However, advice The before Publisher acting accepts no

on any information provided, liability for as any the errors, content omissions, for general or inaccuracies reference within and this may publication.

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not apply to individual circumstances. All trademarks, logos, and intellectual

Publisher. Readers are encouraged to seek professional advice before acting

property rights featured

on any

in this

information

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provided,

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and may

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consent of The Publisher. All rights reserved.

MCFILL MEDIA MCFILL & MEDIA &

PUBLISHING PUBLISHING GROUP GROUP

Ambrish Agarwal, Editor in Chief

Ambrish Agarwal, Editor in Chief

Published by and © McFill Media & Publishing Group FZE LLC

Published by and © McFill Media & Publishing Group FZE LLC

November 2025 www.thefinanceworld.com 5

Contents November

2025

COVER STORY

REAL ESTATE

P36 | Dubai Islands Waterfront Hub: A

New Magnet for Global Investors

Explore how Dubai Islands is attracting

investment with its prime waterfront locations,

luxury living and bold master plans.

INTERVIEW

P24 | The $750 Million Exit Architect

From pioneering VoIP at Verizon to co-founding billion dollar

blockchains, the serial entrepreneur, Dana Love, reveals the

framework for knowing when to scale, and when to exit through

PoobahAI.

INFOGRAPHIC

End-to-End Startup Support:

Dubai’s ecosystem is designed for growth at ever

Free Zones & Licenses:

Over 30 specialised zones, including Dubai

Internet City, DIFC,

Dubai Silicon Oasis; licenses

cover commercial, professional,

industrial, e-commerce, and freelance

Accelerators & Incubators:

Dubai Future Accelerators, In5,

Astrolabs, Wamda X, Flat6Labs, and

sector-focused programs

Visas fo

Golden, Green

to attract fou

and sk

Funding &

Access to VC netw

government-

Dubai Futu

Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy empowers entrepreneurs with

a comprehensive ‘Dubai Startup Guide’ to navigating the emirate’s advanced digital ecosystem.

P12 | Dubai Startup Guide

Your Roadmap to Launch,

Grow, and Scale

Why Dubai is the Ideal Startup Hub

Figure out how you can launch your startup in Dubai, covering essential

strategies and tips for building successfully.

Dubai has emerged as one of the fastest-growing global startup destinations, combining

a vibrant business environment with world-class infrastructure. Key advantages include:

6 www.thefinanceworld.com November 2025

Thriving ecosystem: Business-friendly Global connectivity: Talent magnet:

Launch a business in as little as 15 minutes

using platforms

P20 | Decoding the CBUAE Financial

Invest in

like Dubai

Basher and

Stability Report 2024

Practical & User-Friendly Guidance:

Navigate legal com

sector-specific req

step-by-ste

Leverage Dubai’s competitive advantages to scale

efficiently with targeted support and

practical recommendations

Manoj Sureka breaks it down, highlighting trends,

risks, and market resilience.

Connecting Entrepreneurs & Innov

The guide complements the Dubai Founders HQ, a first-of-its-k

a physical campus and a digital platform, fostering collabo

entrepreneurs, investors, and ecosystem partn

TRADE

REAL ESTATE

P50 | How India and UAE Are Building a $100

Billion Non-Oil Trade Corridor

Examining the expanding India-UAE corridor set to drive $100B in

non-oil trade and dynamic bilateral investment.

MARKET

P66 | Investment and Opportunities in

the New “Mini-City”

A look at Dubai’s visionary mini-city developments

and the real estate investment opportunities they

offer.

TECH MY MONEY

P58 | Currency Markets Remain Calm Amid AI Turmoil

Analysis of currency market stability in the face of rapid AI disruptions

and global economic uncertainty.

P70 | XREAL One Pro

Introducing the next-gen AR headset shaping

immersive experiences and evolving digital

payments.


GROW YOUR

BUSINESS

We make Short / Long Term

Investments in Growing Businesses

info@wasayainvestments.com

www.wasayainvestments.com

Technology

Source: Ai generated

UAE’s Thriving Tech Ecosystem Showcases Advancements in AI, Fintech, and Smart Infrastructure Shaping a Digital Future.

Mapping the UAE’s

High-Tech Boom: Top

Sectors and Cities

Defining the Future

UAE Leverages Strategic Collaborations and

Investments to Drive Innovation and Strengthen

its Position in Emerging Technologies.

The UAE is rapidly establishing itself as

a global leader in emerging technologies,

driven by a strategic vision that combines

innovation, investment, and international

collaboration. Through targeted initiatives,

public and private partnerships,

and agreements such as the bilateral AI

deal with the United States, the nation is

enhancing its technological capabilities

while attracting global expertise. Investments

in education and talent development

are creating a skilled workforce capable

of supporting advanced industries.

Collectively, these efforts are fostering

a dynamic ecosystem where high-tech

sectors can thrive sustainably, positioning

the UAE to benefit from long-term

structural growth and remain resilient

against global market fluctuations.


The United Arab Emirates is

rapidly establishing itself as a

global hub for technology and

innovation, driven by strategic investments,

forward-looking policies, and a

commitment to digital transformation.

In 2025, the nation will have seen remarkable

growth across multiple hightech

sectors, with AI, fintech, renewable

energy, and smart city initiatives leading

the way. The recent approval by the

United States for Nvidia to export up

to 500,000 advanced AI GPUs annually

to the UAE marks a major milestone,

enabling the expansion of data centres

and AI-driven applications. This development

reinforces the UAE’s ambition

to become the region’s leading AI hub

while supporting domestic enterprises

and research initiatives.

Abu Dhabi’s Technology Innovation

Institute has also made headlines with

the successful test-firing of the UAE’s

first homegrown liquid-fuelled rocket

engine, demonstrating the nation’s

growing capabilities in aerospace and

advanced engineering. Such breakthroughs

are indicative of the UAE’s

broader strategy to foster indigenous

technological innovation alongside international

collaboration. In the fintech

sector, Dubai’s free zones, including

Dubai Internet City and Dubai Silicon

Oasis, continue to attract global startups

and investors with incentives such as

100% foreign ownership and tax benefits.

These zones have become vibrant

ecosystems where fintech companies

and digital banks experiment with

AI, blockchain, and other disruptive

technologies.

UAE Leads in Technological and

Smart City Advancements

The UAE’s rapid advancement in

frontier technologies underscores its

determination to position itself as a

global digital powerhouse. The nation’s

commitment to AI, automation, and

cloud infrastructure is transforming

sectors from finance to manufacturing.

Strategic deployment of 5G networks,

blockchain frameworks, and quantum

research capabilities is enhancing data

security and enabling seamless smart

city integration. Dubai’s climb to fourth

place in the IMD Smart City Index 2025

reflects these investments, as the city

continues to pioneer AI-driven traffic

optimisation, predictive public safety

systems, and digital twins for urban

planning and redefining how technology

supports sustainable growth and

operational excellence.

Dubai remains the nucleus of this

transformation, attracting multinational

corporations, venture capital,

and high-growth startups through

initiatives such as the Dubai Digital

Economy Strategy and GITEX Global

2025. The event continues to serve as a

launchpad for disruptive innovations ,

from autonomous mobility and robotics

to AI-enabled policing and governance

technologies.

Abu Dhabi complements this leadership

by building an ecosystem focused

on advanced research and deep

technology investment. Through the

Technology Innovation Institute, Mohamed

bin Zayed University of Artificial

Intelligence, and the Advanced

Technology and innovation

are not just tools for

our future, they are the

foundations. By integrating

AI, digital infrastructure,

and emerging industries,

we are opening new

pathways for economic

diversification

and sustainable

development.”

H.E. Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of

Economy

Technology Research Council, the

emirate is spearheading innovation in

robotics, cybersecurity, and quantum

computing. The Abu Dhabi Investment

Office (ADIO) continues to strengthen

the capital’s appeal by providing

incentives and funding for frontier

tech companies, particularly in AI and

automation.

Sharjah, meanwhile, has become a

focal point for research-led commercial

innovation. The Sharjah Research, Technology,

and Innovation Park (SRTIP)

connects academia with enterprise,

providing a platform for the development

of applied technologies in clean

energy, IoT, and advanced materials. Its

alignment with national digital transformation

agendas reflects the UAE’s

holistic approach to technology-driven

economic growth.

Strategic Investments and Global

Partnerships

Equally important are sustained investments

in education, upskilling,

and talent development, which ensure

a pipeline of highly skilled professionals

capable of supporting advanced

industries. Collectively, these measures

are strengthening domestic capabilities,

attracting global innovators,

and cultivating an ecosystem where

research, entrepreneurship, and hightech

ventures can thrive. This holistic

approach is enabling the UAE not only

to maintain resilience against external

shocks but also to establish itself as

a sustainable hub for innovation and

long-term technological leadership.

The UAE’s high-tech boom in 2025

demonstrates a comprehensive approach

to economic diversification and

knowledge-based growth. By focusing

on AI, fintech, renewable energy, smart

cities, and R&D, the nation is building

resilience against global economic

uncertainties and positioning itself as

a leading technology hub in the Middle

East. Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah

each play complementary roles in this

transformation, leveraging their unique

strengths to advance national goals.

Strategic investments, international

partnerships, and an emphasis on sustainable

and innovative development

are enabling the country to compete

globally while providing domestic opportunities

for growth and employment,

making it a destination for innovators,

investors, and global tech.


Infographic

Your Roadmap to Launch,

Grow, and Scale

Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy empowers entrepreneurs with

a comprehensive ‘Dubai Startup Guide’ to navigating the emirate’s advanced digital ecosystem.

Why Dubai is the Ideal Startup Hub

Dubai has emerged as one of the fastest-growing global startup destinations, combining

a vibrant business environment with world-class infrastructure. Key advantages include:

Thriving ecosystem:

Over 5,600

startups with

$13.6B in funding

by 2024

Business-friendly

policies:

9% corporate tax,

zero personal

income tax,

and streamlined

company setup

Global connectivity:

250+ daily flights

connecting

to 3/4 of the world

within 8 hours

Talent magnet:

Ranked #3 globally

for talent attraction

and 11 th in digital

competitiveness

Comprehensive Coverage of 12 Key Sectors:

The guide provides practical, sector-specific insights across Dubai’s leading industries:

Tech &

Innovation:

AI, Cybersecurity,

Digital Assets,

3D Printing

Future of Work &

Learning:

Edtech,

SaaS/Software,

FinTech

Lifestyle &

Entertainment:

Gaming,

Metaverse/Web3,

Healthtech,

Proptech

Agri &

Sustainability:

Agritech


End-to-End Startup Support:

Dubai’s ecosystem is designed for growth at every stage:

Free Zones & Licenses:

Over 30 specialised zones, including Dubai

Internet City, DIFC,

Dubai Silicon Oasis; licenses

cover commercial, professional,

industrial, e-commerce, and freelance

Visas for Growth:

Golden, Green, and Startup visas

to attract founders, investors,

and skilled talent

Accelerators & Incubators:

Dubai Future Accelerators, In5,

Astrolabs, Wamda X, Flat6Labs, and

sector-focused programs

Funding & Investment:

Access to VC networks, accelerators, and

government-backed funds like

Dubai Future District Fund

Practical & User-Friendly Guidance:

Launch a business in as little as 15 minutes

using platforms like Basher and

Invest in Dubai

Navigate legal compliance, licensing, and

sector-specific requirements with clear,

step-by-step instructions

Leverage Dubai’s competitive advantages to scale

efficiently with targeted support and

practical recommendations

Connecting Entrepreneurs & Innovation:

The guide complements the Dubai Founders HQ, a first-of-its-kind hub combining

a physical campus and a digital platform, fostering collaboration between

entrepreneurs, investors, and ecosystem partners.

Strategic Vision:

Aligned with Dubai Economic Agenda (D33):

Aim to double Dubai’s economy by 2033

Nurture 30 unicorns across digital sectors

Position Dubai as a leading global hub for

technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship


Local News

Dubai Real Estate Hits $37.6 Billion Amid Off-Plan Boom

Dubai’s residential real estate

market maintained strong momentum

in the third quarter

of 2025, with total transaction values

reaching AED138 billion ($37.6 billion),

according to data from Espace Real

Estate. The quarter saw 55,280 residential

transactions, representing an 18%

year-over-year increase from the same

period in 2024. This growth highlights

Dubai’s ongoing market expansion and

sustained investor confidence. John

Lyons, Managing Director at Espace

Real Estate, said: “In Q3 2025, the

Dubai residential market continued

to demonstrate strength and depth,

reflecting solid investor confidence

and growing long-term demand. While

overall activity remains high, we are

seeing a more mature market dynamic

take shape, one that is increasingly

driven by end-user demand.

Dubai Luxury Real

Estate Records 1,388

Deals Over $2.7M

in Q3

The Dubai property market defied

typical seasonal patterns in Q3

2025, with total residential transactions

rising 22.7 per cent year-on-year

and commercial sales values climbing

31 per cent, according to data from

Engel & Völkers Middle East. These

figures reinforce Dubai’s standing as

a global real estate hub, bolstered by

strong investor confidence, robust

end-user demand, and a population

surpassing four million. “Dubai’s property

market has reached a new stage

of maturity,” said Daniel Hadi, CEO of

Engel & Völkers Middle East. “We are

witnessing not only investor activity

but also long-term commitments from

individuals who regard Dubai as home,

a place to grow their lives, careers, and

legacies.” Off-plan properties continued

to dominate, making up nearly 70 per

cent of residential sales, while resale

activity remained strong in established

areas with limited supply and high

lifestyle appeal.

DIFC and Partners for Growth Collaborate to

Finance Next-Generation Tech Firms

Dubai International Financial

Centre (DIFC) has forged a

strategic partnership with Partners

for Growth (PFG) to support the

expansion of high-growth technology

companies across Dubai and the GCC.

The alliance merges DIFC’s commitment

to shaping the future of finance

with PFG’s expertise in asset-backed

lending, which has seen the firm deploy

over $2.1bn across more than

250 companies globally. Under this

Nvidia has secured an export licence

from the U.S. Department

of Commerce under a bilateral

AI agreement signed in May, according

to Bloomberg, citing unnamed sources.

The approval follows the UAE’s commitment

to invest in the U.S., though

the exact value of the chip shipments

or Emirati investments has not been

disclosed. In May, the UAE and the U.S.

announced Stargate UAE, a flagship

project of the UAE-U.S. AI Campus,

agreed during a visit by U.S. President

Donald Trump. When complete, the

25-square-kilometre AI campus in Abu

Dhabi will be the largest facility of its

kind outside the US, with a capacity

of 5 gigawatts. The first phase of

Stargate UAE will deploy hundreds of

thousands of advanced Nvidia graphics

processing units (GPUs). The initial

partnership, structured growth debt

will be offered to companies aligned

with DIFC’s Strategy 2030 and Dubai’s

D33 Economic Agenda, focusing on

sectors such as FinTech, HealthTech,

InsurTech, PropTech, SME Digital

Finance, and SpaceTech. PFG brings

a five-year track record in the GCC,

having supported some of the region’s

leading technology ventures, including

Tabby, TruKKer, Bayzat, Syarah, Huspy,

and Silkhaus.

U.S. Authorises Export of Nvidia Chips to

the UAE

shipments will exclude chips intended

for G42, which is partnering with

OpenAI, Bloomberg reported. Under

the Biden administration, Washington

imposed stricter controls on advanced

chip exports, limiting sales to several

countries, including the UAE.


Dubai Emerges at Core of $20tn Investment Surge

Global alternative assets have

surpassed $20 trillion, positioning

Dubai as a leading hub for

high-growth investments, according

to the latest edition of The Future of

Alternative Investments by the Dubai

International Financial Centre (DIFC).

Once viewed as a niche segment,

alternative investments have entered

the financial mainstream, drawing

institutional investors, family offices,

DMCC Names Design Consultant

for the World’s

First Crypto Tower

DMCC, Dubai’s international

business district that facilitates

global trade, together with REIT

Development, has appointed the National

Engineering Bureau (NEB) as the official

design and supervision consultant for

the upcoming Crypto Tower. Set to be

the world’s first commercial skyscraper

dedicated entirely to Web3 and digital

assets, the Crypto Tower represents

a major milestone in the evolution of

Dubai’s technology-driven real estate

landscape. Situated in Jumeirah Lakes

Towers (JLT), the tower will provide

premium commercial spaces tailored

for companies engaged in blockchain,

cryptocurrency, and digital asset

innovation. The appointment of NEB

marks a pivotal stage in the project’s

development, aligning with DMCC’s

mission to enhance the infrastructure

supporting rapidly expanding technology

sectors.

and high-net-worth individuals. These

investors are increasingly seeking

diversification, inflation protection,

and returns uncorrelated to traditional

markets. Key asset classes, including

private equity, private credit, real estate,

infrastructure, hedge funds, and

digital assets, are gaining traction, particularly

across emerging markets. The

report highlights that emerging economies

are the new growth engines.

Dubai Free Zone Companies Permitted to Bid for

Government Contracts

Dubai has rolled out a permit that

allows free zone companies to

operate on the mainland and

compete for government tenders and

contracts. The Free Zone Mainland

Operating Permit was introduced by

the Dubai Business Registration and

Licensing Corporation under the Department

of Economy and Tourism, in

collaboration with the emirate’s Free

Zone Council. The permit allows free zone

companies to engage in non-regulated

Dubai’s DMCC and the Dubai Virtual

Assets Regulatory Authority

(VARA) have announced a partnership

to pilot the tokenisation of gold

and diamonds , a significant initiative

aimed at developing a secure and regulated

framework for trading real-world

commodities through blockchain technology.

The collaboration will explore how

tangible, high-value assets can be digitally

represented, traded, and settled within a

unified regulatory structure, reinforcing

sectors, including technology, consultancy,

design, professional services,

and trading. It is priced at AED5,000

($1,361) for six months and can be

renewed upon expiry. Companies will

be liable for a 9 per cent corporate tax

and must maintain separate financial

records in compliance with Federal

Tax Authority guidelines. They may

utilise their existing workforce for

mainland operations without hiring

additional staff.

Dubai to Launch Gold and Diamond Tokenisation

through DMCC-VARA Alliance

Dubai’s leadership in bridging traditional

commodities with the emerging world

of digital finance. Combining DMCC’s

extensive commodities expertise and its

26,000-member business community with

VARA’s strong regulatory capabilities, the

initiative aims to establish a transparent,

scalable ecosystem for tokenised assets.

This move will not only facilitate global

market access but also strengthen the

long-term integration of digital assets

into mainstream financial systems.


Digital Assets


Blockchain-powered real estate and asset tokenization offer secure, accessible investment opportunities for investors.

Regulating the Future:

Why Global Investors

Look to the UAE for

Tokenization Leadership

UAE Sets the Global Standard for Tokenization,

Attracting Investors with Innovation, Regulation,

and Technological Excellence.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is rapidly

emerging as a global leader in the

tokenization of real-world assets (RWAs),

attracting investors from around the world

with its innovative regulatory framework,

advanced technological infrastructure, and

strategic capital initiatives. Sectors such

as real estate, commodities, and luxury

goods are witnessing a transformation

as tokenization enables fractional ownership,

enhances liquidity, and expands

market access. By integrating blockchain

technology, smart contracts, and secure

digital identity verification, the UAE is

creating a transparent and efficient investment

ecosystem. These efforts position

the nation as a preferred destination for

global investors navigating the evolving

digital economy.


The United Arab Emirates has rapidly

established itself as a global

frontrunner in the tokenization

of real-world assets (RWAs), attracting

investors from across the globe with

its progressive regulatory policies,

advanced technological infrastructure,

and strategic capital allocation. This

transformative approach is particularly

visible in sectors such as real estate,

commodities, and luxury goods, where

tokenization is enhancing liquidity,

enabling fractional ownership, and

providing wider market access. By

integrating blockchain technology,

smart contracts, and secure digital

identity verification, the UAE is creating

a transparent, efficient, and globally

accessible ecosystem, positioning itself

as a preferred destination for digital

asset investment.

A Progressive Regulatory

Framework

Central to the UAE’s emergence as a

leader in tokenization is its comprehensive

and forward-looking regulatory

framework. The Securities and

Commodities Authority (SCA) has

implemented well-defined guidelines

governing digital assets, distinguishing

between different token types

and classifying certain tokens as securities,

while establishing rigorous

compliance and reporting standards.

This level of regulatory clarity is vital

for both domestic and international

investors, offering legal certainty and

reducing operational risks in the rapidly

evolving digital asset market. By

providing a structured and transparent

environment, the UAE fosters investor

confidence, encourages innovation,

and supports the sustainable growth of

blockchain and tokenization initiatives

across multiple sectors.

Additionally, the UAE’s free zones,

such as the Abu Dhabi Global Market

(ADGM) and the Dubai International

Financial Centre (DIFC), offer specialised

frameworks for fintech and

blockchain ventures. These zones

provide sandbox regimes and financial

services licenses that facilitate the

operation of tokenization platforms,

ensuring adherence to international

standards while fostering innovation.

Technological Infrastructure and

Innovation

The UAE’s dedication to technological

The UAE has established

itself as a leading global

hub for digital assets,

providing clarity, security,

and opportunities for

investors worldwide.

H.E. Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of

State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital

Economy, and Remote Work Applications

innovation is clearly demonstrated

through its pioneering adoption of

blockchain for real estate tokenization.

The Dubai Land Department (DLD) has

been at the forefront, implementing

blockchain-based platforms that allow

for fractional ownership, thereby making

real estate investment more accessible

to a broader range of investors

worldwide. This approach enhances

transparency, as every transaction is

securely recorded on an immutable ledger,

while also streamlining processes

and reducing administrative hurdles.

By lowering traditional barriers to

entry and offering a seamless, technology-driven

investment experience, the

UAE is establishing itself as a global

hub for digital real estate and asset

tokenization.

In addition, the UAE has leveraged

the integration of smart contracts and

digital identity verification to significantly

streamline the tokenization

investment process. These technologies

allow investors to participate remotely,

eliminating the traditional requirement

for local bank accounts or physical

presence. Smart contracts automate

transactions with precision and security,

while digital identity verification

ensures compliance with regulatory

standards and mitigates fraud. This

round-the-clock accessibility is especially

advantageous for international

investors navigating different time

zones, enabling seamless engagement

with the UAE’s tokenized markets.

Collectively, these innovations enhance

efficiency, transparency, and investor

confidence, reinforcing the nation’s

position as a global tokenization leader.

Global Appeal and Investor

Confidence

The UAE’s proactive efforts in fostering

a robust digital asset ecosystem have

garnered significant international recognition.

The 2025 Crypto Wealth Report

by Henley & Partners places the UAE

among the top five global crypto hubs,

reflecting its growing influence in the

sector. Key factors driving this status

include the nation’s zero-tax policy,

which provides an attractive financial

environment for investors, alongside

progressive government initiatives that

promote innovation and regulatory

clarity. Additionally, the UAE’s rapidly

expanding blockchain infrastructure,

encompassing sectors such as finance,

real estate, and commodities, has created

a secure, transparent, and highly

accessible ecosystem.

Moreover, the UAE has strengthened

its position as a global hub for digital

assets through initiatives such as the

launch of the digital Dirham and the

golden visa program. The digital Dirham

provides a government-backed

stablecoin that ensures secure, efficient,

and transparent transactions,

while the golden visa offers long-term

residency incentives for high-net-worth

individuals and digital entrepreneurs.

The UAE’s leadership in tokenization

is a testament to its forward-thinking

approach to regulation, technology,

and investment. By providing a clear

regulatory framework, embracing

technological innovation, and attracting

strategic capital, the UAE has

positioned itself as a global leader in

the tokenization of real-world assets.

As the digital economy continues to

evolve, the UAE’s model offers valuable

insights for other nations seeking to

navigate the complexities of digital

asset regulation and investment.


FinTech News

Future Blockchain Summit x FinTech Surge Fuels Digital Innovation

The Future Blockchain Summit x

FinTech Surge returns to Dubai

Harbour from 12–15 October

2025. It will drive the next wave of

blockchain and fintech innovation. As

digital finance accelerates worldwide,

this year’s edition brings together

regulators, startups, investors, and

tech leaders at Expand North Star,

the world’s largest startup and investor

connector event. Hosted by the

Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy

and organised by Dubai World Trade

Centre, Expand North Star marks its

10th anniversary in 2025. The event

offers a global stage for innovators

to secure funding, form partnerships,

and showcase transformative solutions

that promote inclusive digital growth.

A key highlight of the 2025 edition is

the Future Blockchain Summit x FinTech

Surge. It serves as the leading platform

where blockchain, fintech, and Web3

intersect with the wider tech ecosystem,

focusing on embedded payments, Web3

banking, and open finance.

Dubai Ranked Among World’s Top Four FinTech

Hubs in Global Index

Dubai has secured a place among

the world’s top four FinTech

hubs, according to the latest

Global Financial Centres Index (GF-

CI). This recognition underscores the

success of DIFC in reinforcing Dubai’s

standing as the foremost global financial

centre across the Middle East, Africa

and South Asia. Sheikh Maktoum bin

Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum,

First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy

Prime Minister and Minister of Finance,

said: “Dubai’s emergence as one of the

world’s leading FinTech hubs reflects

the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed

bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice

President and Prime Minister of the

UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to position the

city among the world’s most advanced

centres and to shape the future of key

industries. “Our advancement in the

Global Financial Centres Index has

been guided by the Dubai Economic

Agenda D33, which seeks to position

Dubai among the world’s top four

financial hubs.”

Alibaba Cloud and Wio Bank Join Forces to

Advance AI and FinTech

Alibaba Cloud has signed a memorandum

of understanding with Wio

Bank to drive innovation across

cloud computing, artificial intelligence,

and fintech sectors. The agreement, formalised

at GITEX Global 2025, aligns with

Wio Bank’s multi-cloud strategy and aims

to accelerate the adoption of generative

AI by leveraging Alibaba Cloud’s Qwen

large language model, Platform for AI

(PAI), and agentic platforms. As part of

the collaboration, both organisations

will jointly develop AI-powered banking

agents designed to improve operational

efficiency and enhance customer service.

These advanced systems will be securely

hosted in Alibaba Cloud’s Dubai data

centres, ensuring robust scalability, high

performance, and reliable service delivery.

The partnership underscores a shared

commitment to pioneering technological

solutions within the UAE’s rapidly

evolving financial ecosystem, allowing

them to advance Artificial Intelligence

systems and FinTech capabilities, empowering

enterprises.

Wio Bank and TAMM

Partner to Simplify SME

Banking in Abu Dhabi

Wio Bank PJSC has signed a

Memorandum of Understanding

(MoU) with TAMM, Abu Dhabi’s

unified government services platform, to

streamline business banking for entrepreneurs

and SMEs across the Emirate. The

agreement was formalised during GITEX

Global 2025. Under the partnership, Wio

Business services will be integrated into

TAMM’s digital ecosystem, enabling users

to open new accounts, link existing ones,

and access account dashboards directly

through the TAMM website and app. The

service will offer a tailored experience

for businesses at different stages, including

specific flows for Abu Dhabi Trade

License holders and full onboarding for

companies outside the Emirate. Jayesh

Patel, CEO of Wio Bank PJSC, expressed

pride in launching the region’s first AI-enabled

SME account opening experience,

making it easier for businesses to access

crucial banking tools needed to grow.


Finder Group AI

Launches in Dubai to

Support AI Start-Ups

Finder Group AI, an AI-focused

investment and technology

company, officially launched at

GITEX Global 2025 in Dubai, marking

a significant milestone in the region’s

growing AI ecosystem. Headquartered

in Dubai, the firm aims to bridge capital,

innovation, and market execution by

connecting investors with carefully

selected AI start-ups. It prioritises

support for start-ups in AI, data science,

and digital transformation that develop

technologies with tangible industrial

applications. Finder Group AI provides

these start-ups with capital, operational

support, early-stage funding, enterprise

introductions, board-level guidance,

and market strategy assistance. For

investors, the company offers curated

access to promising AI ventures with

robust business models, targeting

measurable long-term returns and

structured exit strategies.

Osome Opens Dubai Office to Support SMEs with AI

Business Services

Osome, a Singapore-based AI-enabled

business management

platform, has launched its Dubai

office to support the UAE’s vibrant

SME sector. With over one million

SMEs in Dubai, many entrepreneurs

face challenges in managing accounting,

tax, and regulatory obligations

while scaling their businesses. Osome

aims to alleviate these burdens by

offering AI-driven services backed by

human experts. Their offerings include

accounting and bookkeeping services

with dedicated accountants, VAT

registration and filing, corporate tax

filing, and compliance with statutory

reporting requirements. Helena Flores,

Chief Operating Officer of Osome and

Managing Director of Osome UAE,

emphasised the company’s dual role:

reducing financial and administrative

burdens for founders and fostering

growth within the UAE ecosystem by

collaborating with partners.

Crypto.com Receives In-Principle Approval for UAE

SVF License

Crypto.com, operating as Foris

DAX Middle East, has secured

In-Principle Approval (IPA)

from the Central Bank of the UAE

(CBUAE) for a Stored Value Facilities

(SVF) license. This approval

enables the company to facilitate

digital payments for Dubai government

fees, allowing residents to pay using

digital assets converted into UAE dirhams

or dirham-pegged stablecoins.

Transactions will be processed via a

Central Bank-licensed digital wallet,

with settlements made in dirhams or

stablecoins. During this phase, Crypto.com

will operate as a Restricted

Wallet Provider under conditions set

by the Central Bank and will seek

prior approval for any business model

changes. The final license will be

issued once technical and regulatory

requirements are met, including an onsite

inspection by the Central Bank’s

Supervision, Market Conduct, and

Anti-Money Laundering departments

to verify system readiness.

Abu Dhabi Airports and

Al Hail Holding to Pilot

Traveller Digital Wallet

Crypto.com, operating as Foris

DAX Middle East, has secured

In-Principle Approval (IPA)

from the Central Bank of the UAE

(CBUAE) for a Stored Value Facilities

(SVF) license. This approval

enables the company to facilitate

digital payments for Dubai government

fees, allowing residents to pay using

digital assets converted into UAE dirhams

or dirham-pegged stablecoins.

Transactions will be processed via a

Central Bank-licensed digital wallet,

with settlements made in dirhams or

stablecoins. During this phase, Crypto.com

will operate as a Restricted

Wallet Provider under conditions set

by the Central Bank and will seek

prior approval for any business model

changes. The final license will be

issued once technical and regulatory

requirements are met, including an onsite

inspection by the Central Bank’s

Supervision, Market Conduct, and

Anti-Money Laundering departments

to verify system readiness.


Interview

MANOJ SUREKA

CEO & Managing Partner,

Synergy Fin. Consulting


Decoding the CBUAE Financial Stability Report 2024

Manoj Sureka, CEO & Managing Partner, Synergy Fin. Consulting is a recognised leader in the finance and investment

sector. Manoj has built a strong reputation for his strategic foresight and ability to foster sustainable business growth.

At Synergy Fin. Consulting, the firm provides end-to-end fundraising advisory services through private equity, debt, and

trade finance solutions. Their clientele includes SMEs and corporates seeking capital through banks, financial institutions,

sovereign wealth funds, and other institutional investors. Synergy also offers specialised advisory services in mergers and

acquisitions and joint ventures.

Exclusive Interview

Q: Manoj, how do you view the UAE’s

overall financial performance in 2024?

The UAE’s financial system has demonstrated

exceptional resilience. Despite

global challenges such as inflation, rising

debt, and geopolitical tension, our banking

sector remained strong, well-capitalised,

highly liquid, and prudently managed. This

reflects not only sound policy from the

Central Bank but also the agility of UAE

institutions to adapt to change.

Q: What’s your outlook on the UAE

economy for the next few years?

The economy grew by around 4 percent

in 2024, which is impressive considering

the global slowdown. I expect this

momentum to continue, growth should

reach 4.4 percent in 2025 and 5.4 percent

in 2026, driven by diversification, foreign

investment, and initiatives like Operation

300 Billion and the UAE Tourism

Strategy 2031.

Q: What global risks are shaping the

financial stability landscape?

Global debt levels remain high, and prolonged

elevated interest rates continue

to strain fiscal balances. Add to that

the ongoing geopolitical tensions and

climate-related risks, these are key factors

the CBUAE rightly highlights. The

UAE’s prudent approach helps cushion

such external pressures.

Q: Which new policy from the CBUAE

stood out to you this year?

Q: Artificial Intelligence is featured

prominently. How do you see its impact

on finance?

AI is already transforming the financial

sector, from automation and risk modelling

to predictive analytics. The CBUAE’s

structured approach ensures innovation

happens responsibly. The focus on governance,

transparency, and ethical AI adoption

is critical to balancing progress with

stability. Artificial Intelligence will not

replace bankers, but bankers who use AI

responsibly will replace those who don’t.

Q: What did you make of the regulatory

stress test results?

They were reassuring. Even under an

adverse global-recession scenario, the

UAE’s banking system maintained strong

solvency. The CET-1 ratio dipped from 14

to 10.9 percent but stayed comfortably

above requirements. That speaks volumes

about systemic strength and disciplined

risk management. Resilience is not built

in calm waters; it’s proven in times of

volatility, and the UAE’s financial system

has just done that.

Q: How would you describe the credit

and deposit trends?

Credit growth of 9.5 percent and deposit

growth of nearly 13 percent reflect strong

domestic confidence. Retail lending led the

surge, supported by stable employment

and income growth. The loan-to-deposit

ratio below 77 percent shows banks still

have significant lending capacity.

Q: What are your thoughts on profitability

and asset quality in the banking

sector?

Asset quality is at its best in years, NPLs

fell to 4.7 percent, and profitability remains

solid with ROA of 1.9 percent and ROE

of 14.7 percent. This performance shows

banks are balancing risk prudently while

maintaining operational efficiency.

Q: How is the UAE real-estate sector

evolving?

The property market remains a pillar

of strength. Dubai’s sales volumes and

prices surged, villas up 22 percent and

apartments 7 percent, while Abu Dhabi

remained steady. Real-estate loans rose

3.5 percent with NPLs down, indicating

sustainable demand rather than speculative

excess.

Q: Finally, how do you see the UAE’s

progress in digital finance and payments?

It’s phenomenal. The rollout of Jaywan,

Aani, and the advancement of the Digital

Dirham and Al-Jisr CBDC projects underline

the UAE’s commitment to being at the

forefront of financial innovation. These

initiatives will reshape how individuals

and businesses transact, fast, secure,

and inclusive.

The introduction of the positive cycle-neutral

Counter-Cyclical Capital Buffer (pC-

CyB) at 0.5 percent from January 2026 is

a significant move. It’s a forward-looking

safeguard ensuring banks build capital in

good times so they can continue lending

when the cycle turns.

Strong regulations and innovative financing

make Dubai’s property market one of the most

resilient globally.


Banking News

UAE Gold Reserves

Reach Record $817B

Milestone

The Central Bank of the UAE

announced that the nation’s

gold reserves have surpassed

USD 817 billion for the first time,

marking a record-breaking milestone

in the country’s financial history. This

significant increase underscores the

UAE’s strategic focus on diversifying

its reserve assets to safeguard economic

stability amid ongoing global

market fluctuations. The rise in gold

holdings reflects strong confidence

in precious metals as a secure investment,

serving as a hedge against

inflation and currency volatility. It also

mirrors the robust growth of the UAE’s

banking and financial sector, which

continues to demonstrate resilience

and adaptability in a dynamic global

environment. By maintaining a healthy

balance between innovation and fiscal

prudence, the UAE further cements its

position as a trusted and influential

financial powerhouse in the region.

Emirates NBD in Advanced Talks to Buy Majority

Stake in India’s RBL Bank

Dubai’s Emirates NBD is reportedly

in advanced discussions to

acquire a majority stake in India’s

RBL Bank, signalling a major step

in the UAE lender’s expansion strategy

across South Asia. According to media

reports, the deal could involve a mix

of preferential share allotments and

warrants, with Emirates NBD potentially

taking an initial stake of around

25%, which could later be increased

subject to regulatory approvals. The

move aligns with Emirates NBD’s

broader ambitions to strengthen its

international footprint, having earlier

explored similar opportunities in IDBI

Bank. For RBL Bank, which has been

working to enhance its balance sheet

and digital transformation initiatives,

the partnership could inject fresh

capital and strategic expertise. Current

Indian regulations typically cap

foreign ownership in private banks at

15%. Both parties are yet to comment.

UAE Issues New Federal Decree to Strengthen

Financial Regulation

The UAE has introduced a new

federal decree to enhance the

governance and oversight of

financial institutions, insurance companies,

and the Central Bank. This

comprehensive regulation is designed

to ensure greater financial stability,

strengthen the resilience of the national

economy, and align domestic practices

with global financial standards.

By granting the Central Bank increased

independence and supervisory powers,

the decree enables more effective

management of financial risks, enforcement

of compliance frameworks,

and streamlined dispute resolution

processes. It also places strong emphasis

on consumer protection, corporate

transparency, and accountability

across the financial ecosystem. This

landmark reform represents another

step in the UAE’s journey toward

building a world-class financial hub

that supports sustainable growth,

fosters investor confidence, and drives

long-term economic diversification.

Oman Development Bank Finances $260M in Micro-Projects

Oman Development Bank (ODB)

has surpassed OMR 100 million

($259 million) in micro-project

financing by the end of September

2025, supporting over 20,000 smallscale

ventures across the Sultanate’s

production and service sectors. This

milestone highlights ODB’s pivotal

role in advancing balanced regional

development and translating the

government’s financial and economic

empowerment policies, led by the

Ministry of Finance, into tangible

results. The initiative underscores


ODB’s commitment to empowering individuals

and families through self-employment,

while contributing to the

goals of Oman Vision 2040, which positions

citizens at the heart of national

development. The Ministry of Finance

has been instrumental in establishing

the Development Bank as a national

financing institution dedicated to

supporting and service-based projects.

Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed Holds Talks with Bank Chairperson

H.H. Maktoum bin Mohammed Al

Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of

Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister,

Minister of Finance, and President of

Dubai International Financial Centre,

met with Nonkululeko Nyembezi,

Independent Non-Executive Chairperson

of Standard Bank Group. The meeting

reinforced Dubai’s commitment to

expanding strategic financial partnerships

that connect global capital flows with

new growth opportunities. During the

discussion, Sheikh Maktoum highlighted

the UAE’s ambition to solidify its status

as a leading global hub for finance,

capital, and trade. He emphasised that

the country’s advanced infrastructure,

forward-looking regulations, and probusiness

environment continue to attract

major financial institutions seeking to

grow across emerging markets. The talks

explored the bank’s plans to expand its

presence in the Middle East.

CBUAE Hosts Conference

in Abu Dhabi

The Central Bank of the UAE

(CBUAE) has hosted the

Central Bank Data Leaders and

Professionals Conference in Abu Dhabi,

under the theme “Data- The Solid

Foundation of Central Bank Operations

in Times of Uncertainty”. The conference

welcomed senior officials from the

CBUAE and over 35 other central banks

and international financial institutions

across the globe to explore the strategic

role of data in central banking.

The event aimed to foster dialogue

and the exchange of expertise among

nations, leverage global best practices

to keep pace with digital and economic

transformations, and enhance the

readiness of central banks to meet future

requirements. The conference featured

a series of discussions highlighting the

importance of data-driven innovation

in strengthening monetary and financial

oversight, as well as opportunities for

international cooperation to enhance

central bank operations amid times of

uncertainty.

Nasdaq Dubai Welcomes Emirates Islamic $500M

Sustainability Sukuk

Nasdaq Dubai welcomed the

successful listing of Emirates

Islamic Bank’s US$500 million

Sustainability-Linked Financing Sukuk,

marking the world’s first Sukuk of its

kind. Issued under Emirates Islamic’s

US$4 billion Sukuk Programme, the

transaction underscores the bank’s

leadership in sustainable Islamic

finance and its commitment to advancing

the UAE’s sustainability agenda.

The landmark Sukuk drew strong

international investor demand, with

total orders reaching US$1.2 billion,

representing an oversubscription of 2.4

times. This allowed Emirates Islamic

to tighten the profit rate to 4.540% per

annum, at a spread of 95 basis points

over 5-year US Treasuries. The listing

was celebrated at Nasdaq Dubai’s

QNB Group, the largest financial

institution in the Middle

East and Africa, delivered a

strong and resilient performance for

the nine months ended September 30,

2025, reflecting its strategic focus on

sustainable growth and diversified

income streams. The Group achieved a

net profit of QR12.8bn ($3.5bn), up 1%

compared to the same period last year,

while profit before Pillar Two Taxes

climbed 9% to QR13.9bn ($3.8bn).

Operating income expanded by 9% to

QR33.3bn ($9.1bn), driven by solid

growth across key business segments.

Total assets rose 9% year-on-year to

QR1,389bn ($382bn), supported by an

11% increase in loans and advances

to QR1,001bn ($275bn). Customer

market-opening ceremony, where Hesham

Abdulla Al Qassim, Chairman of

Emirates Islamic and Vice Chairman

and Managing Director of Emirates

NBD, rang the bell alongside Hamed

Ali, CEO of Nasdaq Dubai and Dubai

Financial Market (DFM).

QNB Posts Net Profit of $3.5B for Nine-Month

Period

deposits also grew 6% to QR963bn

($264bn). Maintaining operational

excellence, QNB achieved a cost-toincome

ratio of 23.3%, underscoring

its superior efficiency among regional

peers.


Cover Story

Dana Love,


PoobahAI


The $750 Million

Exit Architect:

Dana Love and PoobahAIs

Blueprint for the Autonomous

Economy

From pioneering VoIP at Verizon to co-founding billiondollar

blockchains, the serial entrepreneur reveals the

framework for knowing when to scale, and when to exit.

COVER

STORY


Cover Story

Exit when you’re protecting territory. Double down when you’re creating it.

That single principle has guided Dana Love through five successful company exits totaling over $750

million, across telecom, fintech, AI, and Web3. Today, as President and Chairman of PoobahAI, the serial

entrepreneur is positioning for what he believes is the most significant infrastructure transition since the internet

itself: the era of autonomous, AI-driven economic agents operating directly on blockchains.

With over 4,000 developers already waiting for access to PoobahAI’s platform, a tool that claims to reduce

Web3 development time by 60% and costs by 90%, Love is orchestrating a fundamental shift in who can build in

blockchain, how quickly they can build, and who captures the value when autonomous systems begin deploying

capital independently.

This is the story of a physicist, economist and mathematician turned technologist, navigating the most complex

market convergence of the past decade: artificial intelligence meeting decentralized finance. It’s about reading

M&A cadence as a market signal, recognizing when technologies become interdependent rather than parallel,

and building infrastructure for an economy where software operates as an independent economic actor.

Exclusive Interview with FinanceWorld

Q: You’ve exited five ventures totaling

$750M across telecom, fintech,

AI, and Web3. What consistent signal

tells you it’s time to double down

versus time to exit?

Exit when you’re protecting territory.

Double down when you’re creating it.

The most reliable external indicator is

M&A cadence. When acquisition activity

is rising or steady, it signals institutional

conviction: capital is flowing, incumbents

are buying, and the market believes in

long-term value creation. When that cadence

slows, it’s time to exit. Consolidation

stalls, buyers retreat, and momentum

evaporates.

The best time to exit

isn’t when the market

crashes, it’s when

acquisition activity

starts slowing down

and everyone else still

thinks the party will last

forever.”

Beyond market timing, internal metrics

matter. Positive signals: when your product

achieves second-order capabilities,

solving problems customers didn’t know

they had, or when you identify adjacent

products your customer base needs. Warning

signs: escalating regulatory pressure

that shifts you from offense to defense,

or spending disproportionate energy

protecting market position rather than


extending it.

Ultimately, successful exits aren’t about

maximizing current value, they’re about

reallocating capital to the next wave before

the current one crests.

Q: You began working in AI long before

today’s wave and in blockchain

before enterprise adoption. When

did you see these two technologies

becoming interdependent rather than

parallel?

The inflection point was realizing that

AI needed blockchain’s settlement layer

and blockchain needed AI’s adaptive intelligence.

Neither was complete without

the other.

The convergence didn’t announce itself;

it accumulated. Early signals appeared

during the 2017 ICO boom with projects

like iExec, Numerai, and SingularityNET.

These experiments were clumsy, but they

revealed complementary gaps.

The inflection came when two patterns

emerged simultaneously. AI agents began

generating actual value flows, outputs

requiring settlement layers and programmable

execution. Intelligence was producing

economic transactions, not just data.

On the blockchain side, networks

evolved beyond deterministic logic into

complex token economies needing adaptive

systems to moderate behavior and

optimize incentives. Static smart contracts

weren’t enough.

That’s when interdependence became

inevitable. At PoobahAI, we don’t bolt AI

onto blockchain; we architect for their

intersection from the ground up, because

that’s where the next generation of value

creation lives.

Q: Over 4,000 developers joined your

waitlist before the product was public.

What shifted in the market that told

you this time the demand was real?

The shift was from

“teach me to code” to

“let me vibe code”

building through intent rather than implementation.

Two structural changes made the

difference. First, the talent bottleneck

became acute. Developers fluent in both

AI and Web3 were exceptionally scarce,

and building at their intersection had become

a barrier rather than an advantage.

Second, we recognized “vibe coding” arriving

in Web3. We’d watched this pattern

before: Photoshop to Canva, hand-coded

HTML to drag-and-drop builders, manual

coding to AI assistants. Web3 was next.

Individual builders could finally launch

products that previously required enterprise

resources, if the tooling matched

their mental model.

What convinced us wasn’t volume; it

was specificity. We weren’t seeing exploratory

interest. We were seeing builders

with functioning token models, partially-built

agent frameworks, and concrete

deployment timelines, blocked only by

tooling gaps.

The demand wasn’t aspirational. It was

operational. They weren’t asking us to

explain the vision; they were saying, “we

already know what we want to build, now

let us build it.” That’s when you know the

market has crossed to genuine readiness.

Q: Only a small percentage of global

developers currently build in Web3.

If PoobahAI captures 5% of that talent

segment, how does the recurring

revenue model scale across usage,

automation, and asset flows?

Here’s the leverage:

Build once, deploy

infinitely.”

Five percent becomes exponential when

each deployment compounds value without

incremental cost.

Our model doesn’t scale linearly; it

compounds through three mechanisms.

First, multi-layered revenue architecture.

We capture value at platform access

(subscriptions), deployment (agent usage

fees), and transaction flow (revenue share

on tokenized modules). Each developer

generates recurring income across multiple

surfaces simultaneously.

Second, inverse cost dynamics. Our

MCP Server and 37+ audited Digital Objects

provide reusable infrastructure. As

adoption grows, marginal costs decline

while each builder increases the utility

of existing components. A single Digital

Object deployed thousands of times

generates transaction fees with zero incremental

development cost.

Third, network effects in asset flows.

Every tokenized product built on our

platform expands the ecosystem: marketplace

transactions, module licensing,

cross-chain fees. Builders contribute to

the infrastructure itself, creating a compounding

library.

We’re not building a tool-rental business,

we’re building a protocol layer where

every participant increases value and

revenue potential for everyone else.

Q: Most early stage founders struggle

without a technical co-founder. How

does the Virtual CoFounder improve

a startup’s likelihood of product completion

and fundraising?

Stop pitching what you’ll build with the

right hire. Start showing what you’ve

already built with institutional-grade

engineering.

The technical co-founder problem

isn’t just about building; it’s about signaling.

That person proves execution

capability and talent attraction. Without

“ex-Coinbase” or “ex-OpenAI” credibility,

non-technical founders face skepticism

before presenting the product.

PoobahAI’s Virtual Cofounder eliminates

that gap. It architects systems, writes production

code, iterates based on testing,

and scales infrastructure, demonstrating

technical feasibility from day one. More

importantly, it produces what investors

actually evaluate: working prototypes,

clean codebases, deployment pipelines,

and documentation proving the vision is

actively being executed.

This changes the fundraising dynamic.

You’re not asking investors to believe

you’ll find a technical co-founder; you’re

showing a functional product and asking

them to fund growth, not validation.

The completion rate improves for simpler

reasons: no equity negotiation, no

hiring delays, no risk of your CTO leaving

mid-build. The Virtual Cofounder is always

available and economically aligned with

your success.

In practical terms, this compresses

idea-to-traction from 12-18 months to

3-6 months, which is critical in Web3,

where timing determines which projects

capture mindshare and capital.

Q: You’ve facilitated tokenization of

over $400M in real-world assets. With

regulatory oversight tightening, how

do you ensure this model remains

defensible rather than becoming

constrained?

While others treat regulation as friction,

I treat it as a competitive moat.

I don’t view regulation as a constraint; I

view it as a design parameter. Our architecture

was built for regulatory compatibility

from inception, allowing us to adapt to

tightening oversight while competitors

retrofit compliance.

Our technical approach is deliberately

modular. KYC, AML, and jurisdictional filters

are pluggable components that adapt

to local requirements without fundamental

architectural changes. Token issuers

retain primary legal responsibility, but

our standardized audit logs, immutable

transaction records, and templated legal

wrappers make compliance verification

straightforward. Every tokenization produces

the documentation trail regulators

need without manual intervention.

We’re proactive, not reactive. We maintain

dialogue with regulatory bodies,

participate in working groups shaping

tokenization standards, and engage legal

counsel across multiple jurisdictions.


Cover Story

When the SEC clarifies custody requirements

or the EU finalizes MiCA, we’ve

already built infrastructure to accommodate

those frameworks.

The strategic advantage of being compliance-forward

is underestimated. Institutional

capital, the serious money that

will dominate tokenized assets, requires

regulatory certainty. By building for compliance

rather than around it, we position

as the obvious infrastructure choice for

players who can’t afford regulatory risk.

Defensibility comes from being the platform

regulators understand, trust, and

can audit. That’s not a constraint; it’s a

fundamental competitive advantage.

Q: You state development can be

60% faster and up to 90% cheaper.

Can you illustrate the difference

in cost and timeline between

building the same DeFi product

traditionally versus on PoobahAI?

In Web3, timing often matters more

than perfection. We turn 12-month

builds into 3-month launches.

Let’s take a DeFi lending protocol with

tokenized collateral, dynamic rewards,

and autonomous risk-adjusted pricing.

Traditional build: Full-stack team,

smart contract engineers, risk modelers,

front-end developers, QA, security

specialists, DevOps. Multiple

audits at $50-150K each, partner

integrations, iteration cycles.

Timeline: 9-12 months. Cost:

$2-3 million before production.

On PoobahAI: Start with

our audited Digital Objects

library for token mechanics,

reward engines, and collateral

management. Add our MCP

Server for blockchain connectivity

and agent deployment.

Our agent-based risk manager

adapts pricing in real-time.

Timeline: 3-4 months. Cost:

$100-300K.

The math: 60-70% time compression,

80-85% cost reduction. But the

strategic advantage is capital preservation

and speed to market. Getting to market

in Q1 versus Q4 can mean capturing a

liquidity wave versus arriving after

capital moved on.

The leverage: template reuse

eliminates redundant development,

built-in agent logic

handles traditional specialized

complexity, and multi-chain

deployment collapses separate

engineering efforts.

For the 80% of DeFi

products remixing existing

primitives, the traditional

approach is dramatically

over-engineered.


Comparative Timeline:

Building a DeFi Lending Protocol

TRADITIONAL BUILD

(12 MONTHS, $2-3M)

HIRE SMART CONTRACT

ENGINEERS

DESIGN RISK

MODELS

BUILD FRONT-END

SECURITY AUDITS

PARTNER INTEGRATIONS

ITERATION & TESTING

PRODUCTION LAUNCH

COST:

$2-3 MILLION

TIME:

9-12 MONTHS

POOBAHAI BUILD

(3-4 MONTHS, $100-300K)

SELECT DIGITAL OBJECTS

CONFIGURE AI RISK MANAGER

DEPLOY MCP SERVER

TEST & REFINE

PRODUCTION LAUNCH

COST:

$100-300K

60-70%

EFFICIENCY GAIN:

TIME COMPRESSION

COST REDUCTION

80-85%

TIME:

3-4 MONTHS


Cover Story

Q: PoobahAI offers over 37 audited

Digital Objects with plans to scale

beyond 1,000. How do you maintain

rigorous security standards without

increasing cost or slowing deployment?

The model:

Audit once at the

template level, deploy

infinitely with zero

incremental security

cost.”

We’ve inverted the traditional security

model. Each Digital Object undergoes a

comprehensive security review, formal

verification, penetration testing, economic

attack modeling, before entering production.

Once audited, that object becomes

reusable infrastructure deployable thousands

of times.

This creates exponential leverage. A

single audit investment, typically $50-150K

and 6-10 weeks, amortizes across every

subsequent deployment. Developers inherit

institutional-grade security without

paying institutional audit fees.

Security can’t be static, so we layer

continuous validation on top. Automated

static analysis runs on every configuration

change. Runtime monitoring detects

anomalous behavior. Upgradeable proxy

patterns let us patch vulnerabilities across

all deployments simultaneously.

As we scale toward 1,000+ Digital Objects,

this becomes more efficient. Each

new module benefits from existing security

tooling and institutional knowledge. Our

team validates patterns and logic, not

auditing from scratch.

Our architecture eliminates that

tradeoff, builders get production-ready,

audited components immediately while we

maintain centralized security oversight.

Q: You’ve likened the coming Web3

adoption curve to the rise of Word-

Press and Shopify. What enabling infrastructure

has finally matured to

make that comparison realistic today?

The unlock: Creation is no longer bottlenecked

by technical capability; it’s

limited only by imagination and market

opportunity.

The WordPress and Shopify inflection

points happened when abstraction layers

finally hid complexity completely.

Non-technical creators could launch functional

websites and e-commerce stores

without understanding databases or server

configuration. The technology existed for

years, but the interface finally matched

how humans think about creation.

We’re at that exact moment in Web3.

Several infrastructure layers have simultaneously

matured:

Abstraction has reached critical mass.

No-code tools let creators build tokenized

applications without writing Solidity. “Vibe

coding”, translating intent into functional

products, is operational today.

Our Digital Objects library and AI-assisted

development compress months

of specialized engineering into days of

guided configuration.

Agentic AI automates institutional

knowledge. AI agents now execute

workflows autonomously, managing

deployments, monitoring security, and

orchestrating cross-chain operations. The

expertise hasn’t disappeared; it’s been

encoded into the tooling.

Economic layers are programmable

and composable. Tokenization is now a

design choice, not a technical challenge.

Creators embed sophisticated monetization

models using pre-built templates,

like Shopify making payment processing

a checkbox.

The market signal is unmistakable: over

4,000 developers have joined our waitlist

for immediate access to working tools,

and builders with concrete projects are

waiting for infrastructure to match their

ambition.

Q: Scaling from $10M to $100M in

revenue is very different from scaling

to $450M. What organizational

changes become unavoidable at each

growth plateau?

Scaling from $10M to $100M is about

building repeatability: can you do what

works, consistently?

$100M to $450M

is about building

resilience: can you

handle complexity

without breaking?”

The inflection points are structural,

not incremental. Each plateau requires

fundamentally different operating models.

$10M to $100M: From founder-led to

process-led. Companies either systematize

or stall. You’re transitioning from

heroic individual efforts to repeatable

organizational capability. Sales evolves

from opportunistic deal-making to structured

pipeline management. Customer

success becomes a distinct function.

Culture shifts from implicit to explicit,

values need codification when distributed

across time zones.

The trap is premature bureaucracy.

You need enough process to maintain

quality and velocity, but not so much you

kill adaptability. The right hires matter,

people who’ve seen this transition and

know which processes actually scale versus

which create coordination overhead.

$100M to $450M: From repeatability to

resilience. You’re no longer optimizing a

single growth motion, you’re managing

portfolio complexity. Product development

splinters into multiple tracks. Operations

becomes engineering: supply chain, vendor

relationships, data infrastructure, security

at scale. Compliance transitions from legal

function to cross-functional imperative.

Geography matters differently. You’re

building localized operations with regional

P&L ownership, cultural adaptation, and

regulatory navigation. Leadership needs

general managers running semi-autonomous

business units, not just functional

experts.

Capital structure and governance become

strategic levers. At $450M, you need

institutional governance: independent directors,

audit committees, formal controls,

and transparency mechanisms that give

investors and regulators confidence.

The cultural challenge is preservation

under pressure. The mission that united 50

people becomes diluted across 500+ unless

you invest in leadership development,

communication, and alignment rituals.

Culture becomes something you architect

and measure.

Companies that fail either under-invest

in infrastructure and collapse under

growth, or over-rotate to process and lose

innovation velocity. The art is knowing

which structures are foundational versus

premature optimization.

Q: Looking ahead, what major technological

or macroeconomic inflection

point are you positioning for next,

and what early indicators will tell

you the moment to act?


We’re building infrastructure for an

economy where your software doesn’t

work for you, it works with you, as an

economically independent partner.

We’re positioning for the transition

from software-as-a-service to softwareas-an-agent:

when autonomous entities

don’t just execute tasks but own assets,

deploy capital, and coordinate economic

activity independently.

Right now, AI agents are assistants. The

next phase is agents as economic actors:

holding wallets, executing trades, negotiating

contracts, and governing protocols

without human intervention. When that

becomes mainstream, the entire structure

of how value flows and how software

creates wealth fundamentally transforms.

The early indicators are already visible:

Agent-to-agent transaction volume is

accelerating. On-chain metrics show autonomous

systems transacting directly:

agents buying compute from other agents,

NFT agents negotiating royalties, DeFi

agents rebalancing across protocols. When

agent-to-agent transactions exceed human-to-agent

transactions, we’ve crossed

the threshold.

Major chains are building agent orchestration

layers. Ethereum’s account

abstraction, Solana’s compressed NFTs

for agent operations, and Cosmos’s interchain

accounts signal blockchains

recognizing their next billion users will

be autonomous agents, not humans.

Regulatory frameworks are emerging.

Early SEC discussions, MiCA provisions

in Europe, and Singapore pilot programs

around algorithmic asset management

show regulators see this coming. When

the first jurisdiction explicitly licenses

autonomous agents to deploy capital,

institutional money floods in.

Corporate tooling evolves from AI assistants

to AI deployers. When Fortune 500

companies deploy agents autonomously

managing supplier contracts, executing

hedging strategies, or optimizing logistics

without human approval loops, the business

case becomes undeniable.

Our strategic timing is precise: early

enough to establish infrastructure

standards before the market explodes,

late enough that the technology works

reliably. When the inflection hits, within

18-24 months, companies with mature

agent infrastructure will capture disproportionate

value.

The moment to act isn’t when agent

economies are obvious to everyone. It’s

now, when the signals are visible but implications

aren’t yet priced in.


Sports


Dubai Mallathon participants take part in an early-morning run, highlighting the city’s focus on wellness.

The Business Behind

the Run: How Dubai’s

Mallathon Boosts the

Local Economy

Dubai’s Record-Breaking Mallathon Unites

Fitness, Retail, and Tourism to Showcase the

City’s Dynamic Economic and Lifestyle.

The Dubai Mallathon has emerged as

one of the city’s most innovative sporting

and retail initiatives, blending community

engagement with economic growth.

The 2025 edition, which set a Guinness

World Record for the most runners in a

mall run, underscored Dubai’s position

as a global hub for lifestyle and tourism-led

commerce. Beyond promoting

fitness and social well-being, the event

highlighted the potential for investment,

brand visibility, and sponsorship in largescale

experiential marketing. Through

strategic public-private collaboration, the

Mallathon demonstrates how community-driven

events can generate consumer

spending, attract tourists, and deliver measurable

economic returns for businesses

and investors.


Every August, Dubai transforms

leading shopping malls into early-morning

fitness tracks through

the Dubai Mallathon. Introduced as

a health and wellness initiative, the

event has evolved into a strategic platform

for economic growth. It attracts

diverse audiences while aligning with

the Dubai Quality of Life Strategy 2033

and Social Agenda 33, reflecting the

emirate’s vision to integrate well-being

with economic diversification.

The 2025 edition, organised under the

patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin

Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and

in partnership with the Dubai Sports

Council, activated nine major malls

across the city. Over 31 days, more

than 40,000 participants collectively

logged over 120 million steps along

indoor tracks, creating new consumer

touchpoints for retailers and brands

targeting health-conscious audiences.

Grand Finale and Investment

Opportunities

The grand finale at Dubai Hills Mall

attracted 1,392 runners in a Guinness

World Record-setting event, alongside

a 42-kilometre marathon featuring

40 athletes, including the People of

Determination category. This visibility

presented a prime opportunity for

brands and sponsors to connect with

high-engagement audiences. Companies

supporting the event gained exposure

through digital leaderboards, branded

hydration points, and wellness promotions,

translating into measurable ROI.

Officials highlighted the Mallathon’s

ability to merge active lifestyles with

economic growth. Dr. Sultan Al Neyadi

noted the significant youth engagement,

while Khalfan Belhoul emphasised the

city’s positioning as a hub for innovative

community initiatives. Sponsors

benefited not only from visibility but

also from association with Dubai’s “Year

of Community” and its wellness-driven

public policy.

The Mallathon’s economic benefits

are multifaceted. Retailers and food

and beverage operators reported a significant

rise in early-morning footfall, a

period typically characterised by limited

activity. Cafés, breakfast outlets, and

juice bars experienced higher sales

as participants sought refreshments

after their sessions. Retailers also introduced

wellness-themed promotions,

capitalising on the increased visibility

generated by the event. Mall operators

benefited from better utilisation of

early operating hours, allowing them

to optimise fixed infrastructure costs

while increasing overall visitor traffic.

From a business standpoint, the

initiative stimulated short-term employment

and service demand. Event

coordinators, cleaning staff, security

teams, and healthcare professionals

were hired to manage operations. Local

suppliers of sportswear, nutrition

products, and health equipment also

benefited through increased exposure

and sales opportunities. This synergy

between retail and wellness has positioned

the Mallathon as a contributor

to Dubai’s growing health economy,

supporting the government’s aim of

promoting active lifestyles and improving

public health outcomes.

Retail and Hospitality Impact

The Mallathon generated tangible economic

returns for retailers and food

and beverage operators. Early-morning

footfall increased significantly, leading

to higher sales for cafés, juice bars, and

breakfast outlets. Retailers leveraged

the event to launch wellness-focused

promotions, driving additional revenue

while enhancing brand presence among

diverse demographic groups. Mall operators

maximised infrastructure usage

during off-peak hours, achieving better

operational efficiency and increased

visitor traffic.

From a business perspective, the

initiative stimulated temporary employment,

boosted demand for local

suppliers of sportswear, nutrition

products, and health equipment, and

offered sponsorship opportunities for

health brands seeking visibility. The

synergy between wellness and retail

has positioned the Mallathon as a

key contributor to Dubai’s expanding

health economy.

Tourism and International Visibility

Media coverage from leading outlets,

including Reuters and Khaleej Times,

has significantly amplified Dubai’s

international profile, showcasing the

city’s innovative approach to merging

wellness, retail, and commerce.

By transforming shopping malls into

dynamic fitness venues, the Dubai

Mallathon not only promotes active

lifestyles but also drives domestic

tourism, attracting visitors from across

The Dubai Mallathon

exemplifies our

commitment to fostering

inclusive communities

where every individual,

regardless of age or

ability, can participate in

activities that promote

health and well-being.”

H.E. Shamma bint Suhail Al Mazrui, the

UAE Minister of Community Development

the UAE and the wider region.

This increased footfall has translated

into higher hotel occupancy, greater

in-mall spending, and boosted demand

for local services, aligning with Dubai’s

broader tourism and investment strategies.

For sponsors and investors, the

event provides a high-visibility platform

to engage affluent, health-conscious

audiences through experiential marketing,

branded activations, and product

placements. The combination of media

exposure, live engagement, and digital

interaction allows brands to generate

tangible ROI, strengthen market

presence, and participate in a rapidly

growing experiential economy. The

Mallathon, therefore, represents both

a lifestyle initiative and a compelling

business opportunity. As it grows into

an annual fixture, the Mallathon will

continue to foster consumer engagement,

boost local business activity, and

showcase Dubai’s vision for growth.


Wheels

ALL-NEW

BENTLEY CONTINENTAL

GT SPEED

Brings Luxury Performance


335 km/h

Top Speed

(max, twin-turbo W12)

850 Nm

Torque

659 bhp

Horsepower

Bentley has unveiled the latest

evolution of its flagship grand

tourer, the Continental GT Speed,

redefining luxury performance for 2025.

Positioned as the most dynamic Bentley

road car ever, the GT Speed combines

handcrafted opulence with breathtaking

speed, thanks to a finely tuned W12 engine

and cutting-edge chassis systems. Offering

a seamless blend of power, elegance, and

exclusivity, it stands apart in the world of

high-performance grand tourers.

The exterior design features sharper

detailing, a darkened grille, lower valance

elements, and unique 22-inch wheels that

give the GT Speed a commanding stance.

Subtle Speed badging and exclusive paint

finishes set it apart while maintaining

Bentley’s hallmark elegance.

Inside, the cabin is a masterpiece of

British craftsmanship. Diamond-quilted

leather, dark chrome detailing, and the

option of carbon-fibre trim enhance its

sporting edge. A fully digital driver’s display,

rotating central infotainment screen,

and customizable mood lighting deliver

a tech-forward yet timeless experience.

For the first time, Bentley introduces a

new performance-oriented drive mode

tailored specifically for the Speed variant.

Arriving in select markets in early 2025,

the Bentley Continental GT Speed represents

the pinnacle of grand touring,

combining the power of a supercar with

the comfort and refinement expected of

the marque. It’s a statement of speed,

style, and sophistication, handcrafted for

those who demand nothing less.


Real Estate


Dubai Islands offers a stunning waterfront lifestyle with luxury homes, pristine beaches, and world-class amenities.

Dubai Islands Waterfront

Hub: A New Magnet for

Global Investors

Dubai Islands Offers Unparalleled Waterfront

Living, Combining Luxury Residences,

Lifestyle Amenities, and Investment.

Dubai Islands, a visionary waterfront project

by Nakheel, is swiftly establishing itself

as a premier investment destination in

the UAE. Covering 17 square kilometres

and featuring 20 kilometres of pristine

beachfront, the development transforms

five interconnected islands into a luxurious

residential and leisure enclave.

Strategically located near downtown

Dubai and Dubai International Airport,

it offers exceptional connectivity for residents

and investors alike. The islands

combine modern residences, branded

hospitality, retail, and lifestyle amenities,

creating a self-contained community.

With record property sales in 2025 and a

strong development pipeline, the Dubai

Islands represent a compelling long-term

investment opportunity.


Dubai Islands, a visionary waterfront

development by Nakheel,

is rapidly emerging as one of the

most compelling investment destinations

in the UAE. Spanning 17 square

kilometres with 20 kilometres of pristine

beachfront, this ambitious project

is transforming five interconnected

islands into a luxury living and leisure

enclave just minutes from downtown

Dubai and Dubai International Airport.

The development is designed to

integrate residential, hospitality, and

lifestyle experiences, positioning it

as a world-class waterfront hub that

appeals to both local and international

investors.

In the first half of 2025, Dubai Islands

recorded AED 6.1 billion, approximately

$1.66 billion, in property sales, making

it one of the most active coastal

communities in Dubai. Apartments

dominated sales activity, with 1,895

units sold totalling AED 5.63 billion at

an average price of AED 2.9 million,

or $790,000, per unit. Villas also performed

strongly, with 28 transactions

averaging AED 15 million, or $4.08

million, per property. Six-bedroom

homes averaged AED 44.4 million, or

$12.09 million, reflecting the area’s appeal

to high-net-worth individuals. This

performance contributed significantly

to Dubai’s record-breaking real estate

market, which saw total transactions

reach AED 262 billion, or $71.37 billion,

during the same period.

Strategic Location and Connectivity

Dubai Islands is strategically located

just minutes from Deira, Old Dubai, and

Dubai International Airport, offering

unparalleled connectivity for residents

and visitors. The development is part

of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan,

which aims to enhance the city’s urban

environment and overall quality

of life. Planned enhancements to the

Roads and Transport Authority’s bridge

infrastructure are expected to further

streamline accessibility, making daily

commuting and leisure travel within

the islands seamless.

The project comprises five islands,

Central, Oasis, Shore, Golf, and Elite,

each designed to offer a distinct lifestyle

experience. The master plan includes

low to mid-rise residential buildings,

marina precincts, cultural and retail

hubs, and walkable promenades. Residents

can enjoy a mix of beachfront

The strong growth of the

real estate sector reflects

Dubai’s rapid development

and its increasing

appeal to businesses,

investments, and talent

from around the world.

Dubai’s robust economic

and developmental

momentum requires

an expansion in real

estate projects, offering

enhanced opportunities

for local and global

investors.”

His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed

bin Rashid Al Maktoum,

Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime

Minister and Minister of Defence of the

UAE, and Chairman of The Executive

Council of Dubai

dining, wellness centres, leisure spaces,

and entertainment options, creating a

self-contained lifestyle ecosystem that

blends luxury living with convenience.

Dubai Islands presents a compelling

investment proposition built on three

pillars: genuine waterfront scarcity

within a regulated, globally connected

market, competitive pricing relative

to established destinations such as

Palm Jumeirah, and integrated branded

hospitality that ensures resilient

occupancy and stable rental yields.

The current average price per square

foot in Dubai Islands is AED 2,340,

compared to over AED 3,000 in Palm

Jumeirah, highlighting the potential

for appreciation. Coastal communities

in Dubai have demonstrated strong

performance, achieving 12 to 15 percent

annual price growth, with Dubai

Islands poised to potentially outperform

market averages.

Ongoing Development and Hospitality

Presence

The transformation of Dubai Islands

from blueprint to reality is already

well underway, with several major

hospitality brands operational and

enhancing the destination’s appeal.

Landmarks such as Rixos The Dubai

Islands Hotel and Residences, Hotel

Riu Dubai, and Centara Mirage Beach

Resort bring branded beachfront living

and family-oriented leisure options to

the community, ensuring consistent

tourist footfall and vibrant activity

throughout the year.

Upcoming phases of Dubai Islands

will introduce additional residential

units, retail outlets, and cultural attractions,

further solidifying its position

as a premier waterfront destination.

The development’s integration into

Dubai’s long-term urban vision ensures

sustained growth and continued appeal

for both residents and investors. This

careful planning reinforces Dubai

Islands as a high-value, sustainable

investment opportunity.

Dubai Islands stands at the forefront

of Dubai’s real estate evolution, offering

a unique combination of luxury living,

strategic location, and long-term investment

potential. With record-breaking

sales, strong connectivity, and ongoing

development, it is poised to become

a cornerstone of Dubai’s waterfront

landscape, attracting global investors

seeking long-term growth and value.

For those considering investment in

Dubai’s dynamic property market, Dubai

Islands represent a rare opportunity to

enter a high-growth waterfront community

during its development phase, with

strong potential for both rental income

and capital appreciation, ensuring that

investors and residents benefit.


Real Estate News

ADREC Unveils Region’s First Online Property Transaction Platform

The Abu Dhabi Real Estate Centre

(ADREC) , the custodian

and regulator of Abu Dhabi’s

real estate sector- has announced the

launch of its Digital Buy & Sell Journey,

a first-of-its-kind, government-backed

platform that allows end-to-end property

transactions to be completed

entirely online. This groundbreaking

initiative marks a major milestone in

Abu Dhabi’s digital transformation,

offering buyers and sellers, whether

within the emirate or abroad, a secure,

paperless, and fully remote real estate

transaction experience. The new journey

integrates every step of the property

process, from mortgage release and

registration to ADREC Trustee verification,

digital signing, and escrow

settlement, within a single, compliant

digital platform. Hosted on the TAMM

platform and powered by UAE Pass,

the service enables users to verify their

identity and sign documents securely

from anywhere in the world.

Sheikh Hamdan

Appoints CEO for

Dubai’s RERA

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed

bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown

Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime

Minister and Minister of Defence of

the UAE, and Chairman of the Executive

Council of Dubai, has appointed

Abdullah Ahmed Mohammed Saleh Al

Shehi as the new Chief Executive Officer

of the Real Estate Regulatory Agency

(RERA). Confirmed under Executive

Council Resolution No. (73) of 2025,

Al Shehi will assume leadership of

RERA, the authority responsible for

regulating Dubai’s real estate sector. He

has been transferred from his previous

position at the Mohammed Bin Rashid

Housing Establishment to take up this

role. The resolution stipulates that the

appointment is effective immediately

and will be officially published in

the UAE Official Gazette, marking a

significant step in strengthening governance

and oversight within Dubai’s

property market.

Dubai Luxury Real Estate Records 1,388 Deals

Over $2.7M in Q3

The Dubai property market defied

typical seasonal patterns in Q3

2025, with total residential transactions

rising 22.7 per cent year-on-year

and commercial sales values climbing

31 per cent, according to data from

Engel & Völkers Middle East. These

figures reinforce Dubai’s standing as

a global real estate hub, bolstered by

strong investor confidence, robust

end-user demand, and a population

surpassing four million. “Dubai’s property

market has reached a new stage

of maturity,” said Daniel Hadi, CEO of

Engel & Völkers Middle East. “We are

witnessing not only investor activity

but also long-term commitments from

individuals who regard Dubai as home,

a place to grow their lives, careers, and

legacies.” Off-plan properties continued

to dominate, making up nearly 70 per

cent of residential sales, while resale

activity remained strong in established

areas with limited supply.

Aldar Sells Out Yas Living, Recording Over

$354M in Sales

Leading Abu Dhabi developer Aldar

has reported a complete sell-out

of its flagship Yas Living project

just days after its launch, generating

more than AED1.3 billion ($354 million)

in sales. Situated on the northeast

corner of Yas Island with views of

the canal, Yas Living extends Aldar’s

renowned ‘living collection’ to one

of Abu Dhabi’s most vibrant lifestyle

hubs. The development features 678

apartments across three towers, offering

units from studios to three-bedroom

homes, each available in light and dark

interior finishes, Aldar stated. Each

tower boasts exclusive amenities, a

first for Yas Island, including adult

and children’s pools, a cinema, a zen

garden, a multi-purpose games room,

kids’ play areas, and a fully equipped

gym with a power room. The project

drew considerable attention from a

varied audience, attracted by Yas Living’s

striking urban design, comprehensive

amenities, and prime location near Yas

Mall, Yas Central Park, Warner Bros.


Holo Launches AI Platform to Transform Experience

Holo, the region’s digital-first real

estate platform, has launched

a new AI-driven system set to

transform the home-buying experience.

Revealed at Gitex 2025, the platform

serves as Holo’s operational backbone,

integrating client interactions, mortgage

processing, and property management

into a single, streamlined interface designed

for efficiency. Functioning as

a real-time command centre, it equips

mortgage advisors and concierge teams

to act faster, make informed decisions,

and deliver seamless service at every

stage. By handling everything from

mortgage applications to property comparisons

behind the scenes, it removes

the hidden obstacles that often frustrate

buyers. This invisible infrastructure

ensures the journey feels effortless.

“Our mission has always been to remove

friction from the home-buying

journey,” said Michael Hunter, CEO

and Co-Founder of Holo.

Calgary and Flora

Shore Launch 14-Storey

Residences at

Dubai Islands

UAE-based developer Calgary

Properties has teamed up with

Flora Realty and its exclusive

sales and marketing partner Octa

Properties for the official launch of

Flora Shore Beachside Residences,

a 14-storey residential development

nestled in the heart of the Dubai Islands.

Set for handover in Q3 2027,

Flora Shore introduces a curated

collection of 2, 3, and 4-bedroom

residences inspired by coastal living,

said the UAE developer. The tower is

strategically positioned just minutes

from Dubai Islands’ glamorous yacht

marina, pristine beaches, and vibrant

retail and leisure destinations. It will

offer an elite lifestyle with a blend

of architectural elegance, premium

amenities, and panoramic sea views,

it stated.

“We envisioned Flora Shore as more

than just a residence; it’s a luxury

lifestyle statement,” said Azmal Jaleel,

Managing Director of Calgary Properties,

at the signing ceremony.

ROSHN Group and MOMAH Sign MoC to Drive

Innovation in Saudi Real Estate

ROSHN Group, Saudi Arabia’s

leading multi-asset real estate

developer and a Public Investment

Fund (PIF) company, has

formalised a comprehensive memorandum

of collaboration (MoC) with

the Ministry of Municipalities and

Housing (MOMAH), represented by

the Ministry’s Agency for Housing

Supply Stimulus and Real Estate Development.

The agreement seeks to

advance operational processes and

Dubai-based developer Binghatti

Holding has sold close to 12,000

residential units in the sub-AED

2 million ($544,588) segment so far this

year. According to DXB Interact, a Dubai

real estate data aggregator, the company

has launched 13 new projects in 2025,

with a combined gross development value

(GDV) of around AED 12.28 billion ($3.3

billion). These projects collectively offer

more than 8,200 residential units and over

6.2 million square feet of saleable space.

frameworks across the Kingdom’s real

estate sector. Key focus areas include

modernising permits and approval

systems, implementing smart data

exchange and analysis mechanisms,

co-developing innovative models to

better integrate community services,

and launching pilot programmes aimed

at enhancing residents’ quality of life

and overall experience. The MoC

forms part of ROSHN Group’s Building

Bridges initiative.

Binghatti Holding Sells Nearly 12,000 Residential

Units Under AED 2M in 2025

In July, Binghatti unveiled Flare 01 and

Flare 02 in Jumeirah Village Triangle,

comprising 1,457 units with a combined

GDV of AED 2.16 billion. The developer’s

AED 80 billion ($22 billion) portfolio currently

spans approximately 38,000 units

under development across more than 38

projects in Dubai. These achievements

underline Binghatti’s commitment to

delivering diverse residential offerings

while supporting Dubai’s vision of accessible,

high-quality housing.


Market

Dubai Property Market Holds Steady as

Leasing Demand Remains Resilient in

October

Dubai’s property market continued to demonstrate resilience in October

2025, with rising sales values and steady leasing activity reflecting sustained

buyer and tenant confidence, according to betterhomes research.

The city recorded 18,339 sales transactions totalling AED

46.47 billion in October. While transaction volumes eased

1.7% month-on-month (MoM), total sales value rose 4.2%,

signalling ongoing demand at higher price points and strong

investor confidence.

Off-plan sales led activity, accounting for 69% of transactions,

while secondary market activity held a 31% share. Top-performing

developers by off-plan sales value included Binghatti

(AED 3 billion), followed by Meeras, DAMAC Properties, and

EMAAR. In the title-deed segment, EMAAR topped the list with

AED 4.99 billion in sales, reflecting its dominance in Dubai’s

property landscape.

Buyer leads at betterhomes rose 1% MoM, supported by an

11% increase in villa interest, despite a 16% decline in townhouse

demand. Villas commanded an average sale price of AED

14.8 million at betterhomes, above the market average of AED

12.43 million (DLD), reflecting strong appetite for prime and

ultra-prime homes.

“October’s data reaffirms Dubai’s strong fundamentals,” said


Christopher Cina, Director of Sales at betterhomes.

“Transaction values grew over 4% MoM, showing that confidence

remains high. Buyers are targeting quality developments

with strong long-term ROI, particularly in communities like

Dubai Hills Estate, JVC, and Business Bay. With 58% investors

and 42% end-users, Dubai maintains a healthy balance between

investment appeal and livability.”

Christopher Cina

Director of Sales,

betterhomes

Leasing Activity Steadies with Premium Rentals Holding

Strong

Tenant leads at betterhomes edged up 1% MoM, driven by apartment

rentals (+5%), while townhouse (-7%) and villa (-11%)

interest moderated. Total leasing transactions reached 48,656,

with new contracts representing 43% of leases, up from 40%

in September, pointing to increased mobility and continued

demand from new arrivals and relocations.

Average lease prices recorded by DLD were AED 76,500 for

apartments, AED 173,000 for townhouses, and AED 272,500 for

villas. In comparison, betterhomes’ portfolio skewed toward the

upper end of the market, averaging AED 130,500, AED 218,000,

and AED 450,000 respectively. Jumeirah Village Triangle led

apartment rental growth at +3.7% MoM, while Nad Al Sheba

led villas at +5.3% MoM. Four-cheque agreements were most

common (34%), followed by one-cheque payments (27%).

“The rental market continues to show strong momentum,

particularly in apartments where demand for flexible payment

options and well-located units remains high,” said Rupert Simmonds,

Director of Leasing at betterhomes.

“With over half of lease renewals retained, tenants are showing

confidence in staying within Dubai’s rental ecosystem.”

Stable Fundamentals Point to Sustained Momentum

With rising transaction values, steady rental growth, and resilient

buyer confidence, Dubai’s property market continues to

demonstrate long-term stability. betterhomes expects momentum

to carry into Q4 2025, driven by a stable economy, sustained

investor interest, and growing global attention on the emirate’s

property market.


Merger and Acquisition News

MGX And BlackRock Partner To Acquire Aligned Data Centres

MGX, the Artificial Intelligence

Infrastructure Partnership

(AIP), and BlackRock’s Global

Infrastructure Partners (GIP) have announced

that they will acquire 100% of

Aligned Data Centres from private infrastructure

funds managed by Macquarie

Asset Management and its co-investment

partners. The transaction, which values

Aligned at approximately $40 billion, will

support the expansion of next-generation

Saudi Aramco Boosts

Petro Rabigh Stake

to 60% in $702M

Acquisition

Aramco has strengthened its

downstream portfolio with the

acquisition of an additional 22.5

per cent stake in Rabigh Refining and

Petrochemical Company (Petro Rabigh)

from Sumitomo Chemical Corporation

for USD 702 million (SR7 per share).

Following the transaction, Aramco now

holds approximately 60 per cent of Petro

Rabigh’s shares, making it the company’s

largest stakeholder, while Sumitomo

retains a 15 per cent interest. The company

said the acquisition underscores its

commitment to partners and affiliates

and aligns with its downstream strategy

aimed at value creation, operational

integration, and portfolio diversification.

Aramco added that the investment will

further support Petro Rabigh’s ongoing

transformation programme, which focuses

on asset modernisation to increase the

production of high-margin products and

improve plant efficiency.

cloud and AI infrastructure globally. AIP

was founded by BlackRock, GIP, MGX,

Microsoft, and NVIDIA to expand AI infrastructure

capacity and drive AI-driven

economic growth. In less than a decade,

Aligned has grown into one of the largest

and fastest-growing data centre companies

worldwide. The company designs,

builds, and operates data campuses for

hyperscalers, neocloud providers, and

enterprise innovators.

IHC To Merge 2PointZero, Multiply Group, Ghitha

Holding

IHC has announced a landmark merger

of its flagship portfolio companies,

2PointZero, Multiply Group, and Ghitha

Holding, forming a next-generation investment

powerhouse valued at around AED

120 billion. The unified entity, renamed

2PointZero Group PJSC, will remain listed

on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange

(ADX), combining diversified platforms to

enhance operational efficiency, global competitiveness,

and long-term shareholder

value.H.HSheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan,

Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi and

Chairman of IHC, highlighted that the

merger strengthens growth, scalability,

and resilience while leveraging AI and

dynamic value networks to shape future

industries. Strategically, the merger

e& and Ericsson Ink Deals to Fast-Track Cloud

Transformation

Global technology group e&

has formalised agreements

with Ericsson at Gitex Global

2025 to revamp its core network,

operations, and business support

systems (OSS/BSS) architecture in the

UAE, leveraging Ericsson’s advanced

cloud-native solutions. This cloud-focused

transformation aims to establish a smarter,

more adaptive digital infrastructure

for the UAE, capable of real-time

responsiveness, automation of complex

processes, and delivery of personalised,

high-quality experiences to millions of

customers. The move marks a pivotal

stage in e&’s strategic digital evolution,

accelerating the launch of innovative

services, monetisation of 5G, and adoption

of emerging technologies in the UAE,

including the Internet of Things (IoT),

integrates complementary strengths

across the Energy and Consumer sectors.

2PointZero leads in energy, mining, and

financial services, supporting the global

energy transition through holdings.

Artificial Intelligence (AI), and cloudbased

enterprise offerings.


Emirates Global Aluminium Explores Bid for Brazilian Aluminium Firm CBA

United Arab Emirates-based Emirates

Global Aluminium (EGA)

is exploring an acquisition of

Companhia Brasileira de Aluminio, two

sources said, as the Brazilian producer’s

operations along the entire production

chain have made it an attractive target.

EGA, jointly owned by the Abu Dhabi

sovereign wealth fund Mubadala and

the Dubai sovereign wealth fund Investment

Corporation of Dubai, is working

with Morgan Stanley as its investment

banking adviser on the potential deal,

the people with knowledge of the matter

said. CBA had a market capitalisation

of $487 million as of Monday’s close,

according to LSEG data.

The two sources spoke on condition

of anonymity because the matter is

private. Reuters could not determine if

an offer has been made. CBA, in which

Brazilian conglomerate Votorantim S.A.

owns a 69% stake according to LSEG

data, produces low-carbon aluminium

across seven Brazilian states.

Abu Dhabi’s IHC to Buy

43.5% Stake in India’s

Sammaan Capital

Abu Dhabi’s International Holding

Co (IHC) will acquire a 43.5%

stake in Sammaan Capital for

88.50 billion rupees ($997.7 million),

in a major bet on India’s fast-growing

housing finance market. Sammaan, a

non-banking financial company focused

on mortgage-lending, said on Thursday it

will issue 330 million equity shares and

306.7 million convertible warrants to

Avenir Investment RSC, an IHC affiliate,

at 139 rupees apiece. Following the deal,

Avenir will be classified as a promoter

and will take control of the company.

The transaction is subject to approvals

from the Reserve Bank of India and the

Competition Commission of India, and

will trigger a mandatory open offer to

existing shareholders. “IHC’s $1 billion

investment underscores its conviction

in the long-term potential of India’s

financial sector and its commitment

to expanding access to capital,” the

company said in a statement.

ADNOC Poised to Secure EU Approval for $17B

Covestro Deal after Remedy Adjustments

Abu Dhabi state oil firm ADNOC

is set to secure EU approval for

its 14.7-billion-euro ($17 billion)

bid for German chemicals company

Covestro, with EU regulators likely

to seek tweaks to remedies provided

earlier this month, sources with direct

knowledge of the matter said. The European

Commission is examining the

deal, ADNOC’s biggest acquisition yet

and one of the largest foreign takeovers

of an EU company by a Gulf state, over

concerns that ADNOC may be using

state subsidies to acquire the chemicals

company. The Commission declined to

comment. Covestro shares gained 2.4%

in late trade after the Reuters story was

published, versus a slight dip in the

STOXX Europe 600 chemicals index.

The EU regulator sought feedback from

rivals and third parties last week after

ADNOC offered to change its articles

to remove EU concerns.

AMCREIT Acquires New Real Estate Asset with

NMC Royal Hospital

Al Mal Capital REIT (AMCREIT), a

subsidiary of Dubai Investments

listed on the Dubai Financial

Market (DFM), has acquired NMC

Royal Hospital in Dubai Investments

Park (DIP), marking its sixth portfolio

addition. Financial terms were not disclosed.

Operated by NMC Healthcare,

the hospital strengthens AMCREIT’s

total portfolio, now valued at approximately

AED 1.4 billion ($381 million).

This acquisition follows a successful

AED 210 million capital raise in August

via a follow-on public offering, aimed

at funding strategic expansion through

high-quality, income-generating assets.

NMC Royal Hospital is a 120-bed inpatient

facility comprising two hospital

blocks and a fully leased commercial

building, covering 492,332 square feet.

Naser Al Nabulsi, Vice Chairman and

CEO of Al Mal Capital, highlighted that

the acquisition expands the REIT’s

mandate to include essential infrastructure

assets offering long-term returns.


Global


Investors monitor Dubai and Abu Dhabi markets as global tech selloff impacts regional stock performance.

From Silicon Valley to

Wall Street: What the

$770B Selloff Signals for

Global Investors

Global Tech Turbulence Underscores the UAE’s

Strategic Focus on AI, Digital Infrastructure, and

Resilient Investment Sectors.

The recent $770 billion tech selloff, triggered

by U.S.-China trade tensions, has

sent shockwaves through global markets,

highlighting the vulnerability of

high-growth technology stocks. Major

firms, including Amazon, Nvidia, Tesla,

and Microsoft, experienced significant

losses, raising concerns over overvaluation

and market stability. For the UAE,

while direct exposure to AI-driven tech

equities is limited, the event underscores

the importance of strategic positioning

and diversification. Investors in the region

are increasingly evaluating opportunities

in resilient sectors such as renewable

energy, digital platforms, and industrial

technology. The selloff offers both cautionary

lessons and potential openings

for informed investment strategies.


On October 10, 2025, global markets

experienced one of the

most dramatic selloffs in recent

history as U.S. President Donald Trump

announced a 100% tariff on Chinese

goods. This single announcement

erased approximately $770 billion from

the market value of major technology

companies, marking the largest single-day

decline since April. Giants such

as Amazon, Nvidia, Tesla, Microsoft,

and Alphabet saw their stock prices

drop between four to six per cent, with

Nvidia alone losing more than $229

billion in market capitalisation. The

immediate shock rippled through global

markets, sending investors scrambling

to reassess their exposure to technology

assets. The selloff highlighted how

intertwined geopolitics, international

trade policies, and technology markets

have become in shaping investor sentiment

worldwide.

The U.S.-China trade tensions, exacerbated

by the announcement, have had

tangible effects on markets well beyond

North America. China reacted with a

warning of potential countermeasures,

escalating fears of a prolonged trade

standoff. Consequently, Chinese indices

also tumbled, with the Hang Seng Index

falling by 3.5 per cent and the CSI300

Index declining 1.8 per cent. Analysts

note that the tech sector, particularly

companies involved in artificial intelligence,

semiconductors, and cloud

computing, is especially vulnerable to

these tensions because of the complex,

cross-border supply chains. Experts

have drawn comparisons to the late

1990s dot-com bubble, pointing out

that some AI and tech firms’ valuations

appear inflated relative to their

earnings. Veteran investor Rajiv Jain

highlighted the risk of unsustainable

business models, cautioning that speculative

hype in AI could amplify losses

if market corrections occur. Similarly,

both the International Monetary Fund

and the Bank of England have issued

warnings about potential AI-related

market bubbles, emphasising that

investors should approach the sector

with prudence.

The repercussions of this tech selloff

are directly relevant for investors in

the UAE. Gulf markets showed mixed

performance following the global turbulence.

On October 13, 2025, Dubai’s

index fell by 0.5 per cent, led by declines

in Emaar Properties and Emirates NBD,

while Abu Dhabi’s index slipped 0.2 per

The UAE’s efforts are

guided by the spirit of the

Union, and the directives

of President His Highness

Sheikh Mohamed bin

Zayed, moving toward

achieving our national

priorities.”

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin

Rashid Al Maktoum,

Vice President and Prime Minister of the

UAE and Ruler of Dubai

cent. Saudi Arabia’s Tadawul, however,

recorded a 0.5 per cent gain, buoyed by

increases in Al Rajhi Bank and Saudi

Aramco, while Qatar’s index edged up

slightly. Despite the immediate effects,

analysts suggest that UAE markets

are somewhat insulated compared to

markets heavily exposed to AI-driven

tech stocks in the U.S. and China.

This relative resilience is partly due

to the UAE’s diversified economy and

proactive initiatives in technology,

renewable energy, and digital infrastructure.

Investors in the UAE are now

carefully monitoring developments in

AI, semiconductor imports, and global

trade policies to recalibrate portfolios

accordingly.

UAE Leverages Bilateral AI Deal

with the U.S. to Strengthen Tech

Growth

One notable factor positioning the

UAE to benefit from technology growth

amid global volatility is its bilateral

AI agreement with the United States.

Signed in May 2025, the deal allows the

UAE to import up to 500,000 Nvidia AI

chips annually through at least 2027,

potentially extending to 2030. The

agreement aims to support the UAE’s

growing network of data centres and

AI infrastructure, helping the country

advance its digital economy objectives.

In return, the UAE committed to investing

a comparable amount into U.S.-

based initiatives. This framework not

only facilitates access to cutting-edge

technology for local enterprises but also

strengthens the UAE’s standing as a

global hub for AI development. Experts

suggest that such strategic agreements

could help offset the negative impact

of international market shocks on the

UAE’s tech sector.

Despite these positive steps, the

broader macroeconomic environment

remains uncertain. The IMF has emphasised

that unpredictable trade policies,

inflationary pressures, and overvalued

technology stocks pose risks to global

economic growth. Kristalina Georgieva,

the IMF’s managing director, remarked

that “uncertainty is the new normal,”

underscoring how policy decisions

can quickly reshape market sentiment.

Investors are consequently reassessing

risk allocation, with a growing focus

on sectors less exposed to global

trade shocks, including renewable

energy, digital platforms, and industrial

technology. The UAE’s ongoing

investments in smart city initiatives,

renewable energy projects, and digital

payments infrastructure are likely to

offer attractive alternatives for both

domestic and international investors

seeking stability amid turbulence.

The selloff also carries broader lessons

for the UAE’s investment community.

It underscores the importance of

maintaining diversified portfolios and

understanding the interplay between

global technology trends and regional

markets. The recent tech market turmoil

reflects a convergence of geopolitical,

economic, and technological

factors. The UAE, through its strategic

agreements, diversified investment

landscape, and focus on AI and digital

infrastructure, is well-positioned

to weather global volatility and seize

long-term opportunities. Investors must

remain vigilant, balancing caution with

strategic positioning, to benefit from

the emerging growth sectors.


Infographic

GITEX 2025 Highlights:

The Tech Trends Shaping

the Future

Dubai once again became the epicentre of global innovation as GITEX

Global 2025 wrapped up its 45th edition at the World Trade Centre.

With over 6,800 exhibitors, 2,000 startups, and delegations

from 180 countries, this year’s event wasn’t just about

showcasing gadgets or prototypes; it was about

defining what the next decade of technology

will look like. Here are the major trends

that stood out and what they

mean for the years ahead.

AI Moves from Experimentation to Execution

Artificial Intelligence dominated every hall and panel, but this time the focus was on application, not theory. Governments

and businesses showcased real-world AI solutions that are already transforming operations. Abu Dhabi’s

TAMM platform stood out as the world’s first AI-powered public servant, independently managing more than a

thousand government services.

A clear shift emerged: nations are building sovereign AI ecosystems, using local data, languages, and infrastructure to

ensure independence and security. The UAE’s strategy reflects a broader understanding that control over data will

define global competitiveness in the digital era.

The Convergence of Biotech and Deep Tech

Biotechnology took centre stage alongside AI, highlighting how health and data are converging. From smart contact

lenses that monitor glucose levels to AI-driven prosthetics, the integration of biology and technology is opening a

new frontier in human health.

These innovations signal a growing market focused on personalised medicine and longevity. Investors across GITEX

referred to this intersection as the “next trillion-dollar opportunity,” where deep tech is not just enhancing life but

extending it.


The Energy Challenge Behind AI

As AI systems grow more powerful, their energy demands are becoming a pressing concern. Companies like xFusion

introduced computing architectures designed to significantly reduce power consumption, aligning innovation with

sustainability.

The UAE’s increasing investment in green data centres and renewable-powered infrastructure underscores an

important truth: the AI revolution will be sustainable only if the energy behind it is efficient and clean.

Cybersecurity Becomes Central to Growth

With AI advancing rapidly, so are the risks associated with it. Kaspersky and other cybersecurity leaders highlighted a

surge in AI-enabled threats, from deepfake scams to data breaches targeting critical infrastructure.

The message across the conference was clear: cybersecurity can no longer be treated as a support function; it is now

a cornerstone of digital strategy and economic resilience.

The Race to Build Smart Connected Cities

Dubai’s smart city ambitions were reflected throughout the exhibition, with live demonstrations of AI-guided

transport systems, connected infrastructure, and early trials of 6G technology.

The future urban ecosystem will rely on seamless connectivity between buildings, vehicles, and services. For investors

and developers, this integration will directly influence how cities evolve and how value is created within real estate

and public infrastructure.

Startups Scale Globally from the UAE

The startup ecosystem at GITEX was more dynamic than ever. Entrepreneurs from across Africa, Asia, and Europe

showcased products developed and scaled in Dubai. The city’s advanced regulatory environment, funding access,

and talent ecosystem have made it a natural launchpad for global innovation.

The UAE is no longer just attracting startups; it is exporting them. This signals a shift from being a hub of opportunity

to being a generator of innovation.

The

Outlook

GITEX 2025 reinforced the UAE’s position at the heart of the global tech conversation.

AI is maturing, biotechnology is redefining healthcare, sustainability is shaping digital

infrastructure, and startups are thinking beyond borders.


Global News

UK Money Transfer Service Wise Approved to Operate in the UAE

The Central Bank of the United

Arab Emirates has officially

approved the UK-based money

transfer service Wise to operate in

the country.

Headquartered in London, Wise is a

financial technology firm that facilitates

money transfers and storage. It serves

around 15 million customers globally

and handles nearly $50 billion every

quarter. With regulatory approval now

secured, Wise can offer its transfer and

storage services within the UAE. Shares

in Wise have declined by approximately

8 per cent so far this year. Each year,

individuals and businesses in the UAE

transfer roughly $44 billion across

borders, highlighting the country’s

remittance market as one of the most

significant worldwide. In 2023, sending

remittances over $200 cost an average

of 6.4 per cent.

UAE’s Gulftainer To Invest $1 Billion In Egypt

Logistics

UAE-based Gulftainer has unveiled

plans to invest $1 billion

in Egypt, targeting container

terminal management and port logistics

services. The announcement came

during the World Maritime Transport

Conference in Dubai, where Egypt’s

Deputy Prime Minister for Industrial

Development and Minister of Industry

and Transport, Kamel El-Wazir, highlighted

Egypt’s position as an ideal

hub for major investments due to its

strategic location.

Gulftainer, which operates across 10

countries, is considering investment in

key Egyptian ports, including East Port

Said, Alexandria, and Damietta. The

company’s entry is expected to boost

Egypt’s logistics sector and expand regional

trade flows. Both parties agreed

that a company delegation will soon

visit Egypt to examine opportunities

in coordination with the Egyptian

Commercial Office in Dubai. Following

this, contracts are expected to be

signed to manage and operate one of

the container terminals and logistics

zones.

World Bank Lifts Middle

East Growth 2025

Forecast

The World Bank has raised its 2025

growth forecast for the Middle

East, North Africa, Afghanistan,

and Pakistan (MENAAP) region, citing

stronger economic performance in the

Gulf states. The revised outlook now

projects a 2.8% expansion in regional

GDP, up from the 2.6% forecast made

in April. This improvement reflects the

faster easing of oil production cuts and

the continued momentum of non-oil

sectors across the Gulf economies.

Although the upgrade signals resilience,

the broader regional picture remains

uneven. Several economies outside the

Gulf continue to struggle with structural

and geopolitical challenges that limit

growth potential. These challenges are

likely to weigh heavily on employment.

Ministry of Investment and Microsoft Forge AI Partnership to Enhance

Financial Forecasting

The UAE Ministry of Investment

and Microsoft have formalized a

strategic collaboration through a

Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)

aimed at advancing artificial intelligence

(AI) applications in investment

analytics and financial forecasting.

Signed on October 16, 2025, during

GITEX Global 2025, the agreement

was endorsed by Mohammad Alhawi,

Undersecretary at the Ministry of

Investment, and Amr Kamel, General

Manager of Microsoft UAE. A central

component of the partnership is the

AI National Skilling Initiative, which

seeks to train 100,000 government

employees across various entities,

enhancing their proficiency in AI tools


and methodologies. The collaboration

also focuses on developing AI-driven

solutions tailored to sectors such

as retail optimization and financial

forecasting. Additionally, both parties

will engage in workshops and knowledge-sharing

sessions to promote best

practices in data governance, utilizing

Microsoft’s Azure Data Catalog and

Azure Purview. This partnership allows

for a higher-level, more advanced forecasting

method development which

is likely to benefit both government

parties and financial landscapes. The

Ministry of Investment has been keen

on partnering with competitive technological

companies to grow its AI

landscape and evolve practices.

IMF Raises UAE GDP

Forecast to 4.8% and

5%

The International Monetary Fund

(IMF) has raised its forecast for

the UAE’s real GDP to 4.8% for

2025, compared with its previous projection

released in April. Additionally,

the Fund projected in its latest World

Economic Outlook (WEO) that the

UAE’s economy will grow by 5% in

2026, a forecast unchanged from the

earlier projection. According to the

WEO, global growth is expected to

slow slightly from 3.3% in 2024 to 3.2%

in 2025 and 3.1% in 2026. Advanced

economies are projected to grow

around 1.5%, while emerging market

and developing economies are expected

to expand just above 4%. Growth

in the Middle East and Central Asia

is projected to accelerate from 2.6%

in 2024 to 3.5% in 2025, and further to

3.8% in 2026.

Sharjah Sells $280M in

Panda Bond

The Government of the Emirate

of Sharja,h through its finance

department, has raised 2 billion

renminbi ($280.3 million) from a threeyear

Panda bond. The final coupon has

not been disclosed, but initial price

thoughts were in the 2.5% - 3.2%. Bank

of China is the lead underwriter and

bookrunner. Credit Agricole (China), JP

Morgan Chase (China), Industrial and

Commercial Bank of China, China Bohai

Bank, Citic Securities, Export-Import

Bank of China and Shenwan Hongyuan

Securities are joint lead underwriters

and bookrunners. Proceeds will be

remitted offshore and converted into

dirham or US dollars, to be used to

finance budget expenditures, infrastructure

projects and other expenses

in the issuer’s budget.

U.S.-Based CME Group Sets up Regional Base in Dubai

CME Group, a US-based operator

of financial derivatives

exchanges, has expanded its

global footprint with an office at the

Dubai International Financial Centre

(DIFC) to meet investor demand. The

company said the move will allow

regional clients to manage risk and

opportunities in benchmark products

and is a result of an overall 16% increase

in average daily volumes across

the Middle East, outpacing growth in

other well-established EMEA markets.

The Dubai office will operate as the

Nasdaq-listed company’s Middle East

hub, operating under a DFSA license.

Sharif Jaghman, Head of Middle East

and Africa, will lead the Dubai office.

He was previously based in London for

the CME Group and has held various

senior positions at the New York Stock

Exchange and Euronext. With a market

cap of $95.34 billion, the CME Group

provides listed futures, options and cash

markets across investable asset classes,

including interest rates, equities, foreign

exchange, energy, agricultural, metals

and cryptocurrency products.

Abu Dhabi Government Unveils World-First

Innovations, Strategic Partnerships at GITEX

On day two of GITEX Global 2025,

the Abu Dhabi Government

unveiled a series of world-first

innovations and strategic partnerships,

advancing its ambition to become the

world’s first fully AI-native government

by 2027. Over 30 government and

academic entities participated in the

Abu Dhabi Pavilion under the theme

AI-Native by Design, Community-Driven

by Purpose, highlighting how collaboration

across government, industry,

and academia is driving smarter, safer,

and more human-centric digital

experiences. A key highlight was the

launch of the latest version of TAMM,

Abu Dhabi’s super app unifying more

than 1,100 public and private services.

Developed by the Department of Government

Enablement – Abu Dhabi.

Bank Muscat’s Nine-Month 2025 Profit

Rises 12%

Oman’s largest lender, Bank

Muscat, posted a 12% rise in

net profit for the first nine

months of 2025, reaching OMR 191.6

million ($497.7 million), underpinned

by growth in both interest and non-interest

income streams. Operating

profit grew 9% to OMR 271.6 million,

reflecting the bank’s strong operational

performance across conventional

and Islamic banking segments. Net

interest income from conventional

banking, combined with net income

from Islamic banking, rose 6% to OMR

311 million, supported by higher lending

volumes and improved margins.

Non-interest income increased to

OMR 124 million, up from OMR 110.3

million a year earlier, primarily driven

by higher investment income and fees,

highlighting resilience of the bank.


Trade


Business hubs showcase seamless trade, digital payments, and growing employment opportunities

Strengthening Ties:

How India and UAE Are

Building a $100 Billion

Non-Oil Trade Corridor

India and the UAE are Strengthening Economic

Ties through Non-Oil trade, Digital Payments,

and Inclusive Growth Initiatives.

India and the UAE are deepening their

economic partnership to establish a $100

billion non-oil trade corridor by 2030.

Building on the Comprehensive Economic

Partnership Agreement (CEPA) signed

in 2022, both nations are expanding

trade in sectors beyond hydrocarbons,

including technology, renewable energy,

healthcare, logistics, and infrastructure.

Government-led initiatives, private-sector

collaborations, and strategic investments

are driving this diversification, enhancing

connectivity and market access. By leveraging

complementary strengths, India

and the UAE are creating a resilient trade

framework that fosters innovation, attracts

investment, and strengthens long-term

bilateral economic ties, positioning the

corridor as a key regional growth driver.


India and the United Arab Emirates

(UAE) are advancing their

economic partnership, aiming to

establish a $100 billion non-oil trade

corridor by 2030. This objective builds

upon the Comprehensive Economic

Partnership Agreement (CEPA) signed

in 2022, which has already facilitated

significant growth in bilateral trade.

In 2024, non-oil trade between the two

nations reached approximately $65.4

billion, marking a 20.5% increase from

the previous year. The momentum

continued into the first half of 2025,

with trade rising 33.9% to $37.6 billion,

positioning both countries on track to

achieve the ambitious target.

The UAE has become India’s second-largest

trading partner, with non-oil

exports accounting for a substantial

portion of total bilateral trade. This

shift reflects a strategic move towards

sectors such as electronics, chemicals,

machinery, and smartphones, which

have seen substantial export growth.

The UAE’s investments in India have

also been increasing, reaching over

$23 billion in 2024, making it India’s

seventh-largest global investor. These

investments are concentrated in areas

like renewable energy, fintech, defence,

agritech, and data centres, underscoring

the deepening economic ties between

the two nations.

Both governments are actively working

to diversify trade beyond traditional

sectors. Initiatives include joint infrastructure

development projects in third

countries and the establishment of a

technology interface between India’s

National Payments Corporation and

the UAE’s Mercury Payments Services.

These efforts aim to enhance connectivity,

streamline trade processes,

and promote sustainable growth. The

introduction of the RuPay card in the

UAE and the integration of UPI payments

at retail outlets exemplify the

growing financial connectivity between

the two countries.

Overcoming Barriers to Non-Oil

Trade Growth

Despite the positive trajectory, challenges

remain in achieving the $100

billion target. Sustaining momentum

in non-oil sectors requires continued

policy support, regulatory alignment,

and investment in emerging industries.

Both nations are addressing these challenges

through bilateral coordination

and private-sector engagement, focusing

on sectors with high growth

potential. Strategic initiatives, including

trade fairs, joint business councils,

and sector-specific agreements, are

helping mitigate these challenges

while promoting knowledge transfer

and market intelligence.

The UAE’s Minister of Economy and

Tourism, Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri,

has emphasised the importance of the

CEPA in boosting trade and investment

flows. Both countries are aligning

their national priorities with shared

economic interests, establishing a

resilient corridor capable of adapting

to global market dynamics. Through

continued collaboration, India and

the UAE are poised to achieve and

potentially surpass the $100 billion

trade target, setting a precedent for

future international trade partnerships.

Furthermore, the growing integration

of digital payment systems between

India and the UAE has significantly

streamlined cross-border transactions,

enhancing convenience for

both businesses and consumers. The

introduction of the RuPay card in the

UAE, alongside the widespread expansion

of UPI payment facilities at

retail outlets, has simplified financial

interactions and reduced transaction

times. These advancements not only

support trade efficiency but also encourage

greater consumer adoption of

digital payments, fostering financial

inclusion. By leveraging technology to

facilitate seamless cross-border transactions,

both countries are reinforcing

their economic partnership and laying

the foundation for a more connected,

innovative, and digitally enabled trade

ecosystem.

Boosting Trade Efficiency and Job

Creation

These developments contribute to the

overall ease of doing business and enhance

the efficiency of trade between

India and the UAE.

The surge in non-oil trade between

India and the UAE has generated

significant employment opportunities

across both nations. Expansion

in sectors such as manufacturing,

technology, logistics, and services has

created numerous jobs while driving

broader economic development. Governments

on both sides are actively

working to ensure that the benefits

Our vision is to elevate

India-UAE trade to new

heights, focusing on

innovation, technology,

and sustainable growth

beyond oil.”

Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE

Minister of Foreign Trade

of this growing economic partnership

are widely shared, fostering inclusive

growth and social advancement. By

promoting skill development, supporting

entrepreneurship, and encouraging

investment in high-potential industries,

the India-UAE trade corridor not only

strengthens bilateral economic ties.

The India-UAE economic corridor

is rapidly evolving into a robust

and diversified trade partnership. By

strengthening collaboration, streamlining

trade processes, and investing in

emerging sectors such as technology,

renewable energy, and logistics, both

nations are strategically positioned to

achieve the ambitious $100 billion nonoil

trade target by 2030. This growing

alliance highlights the significance of

bilateral cooperation in fostering sustainable

economic growth, innovation,

and global competitiveness. Beyond

trade, the partnership exemplifies

a model for international economic

engagement, showcasing how shared

vision, strategic planning, and mutual

trust can unlock long-term prosperity

for both countries.


Travel News

Al Saeedi Group Secures Five-Year Contract Extension with dnata

Al Saeedi Group has secured a

significant five-year contract

extension with dnata, reaffirming

its longstanding partnership in providing

comprehensive tyre solutions. Under

this renewed agreement, Al Saeedi will

continue to supply, repair, and fit tyres for

dnata’s extensive fleet of ground support

equipment (GSE) and commercial vehicles

across the UAE. This collaboration

underscores Al Saeedi’s role as a trusted

partner in the aviation and logistics sectors,

offering tailored services that meet

the rigorous demands of dnata’s operations.

The contract extension reflects both

companies’ commitment to maintaining

high standards of safety, efficiency, and

reliability in their services. By leveraging

Al Saeedi’s expertise and dnata’s operational

excellence, the partnership aims to

enhance the performance and longevity

of critical equipment, ensuring seamless

ground operations at airports.

Tourism Seychelles

Boosts GCC Engagement

Tourism Seychelles has reinforced

its presence in the GCC region by

participating in the TBO Travel

Business Show in Doha on 15 September

and Dubai on 17 September 2025. These

events brought together hundreds of

travel professionals, providing a platform

to promote Seychelles’ unique tourism

offerings and strengthen ties with key

trade partners across Qatar and the UAE.

In Dubai, the Seychelles delegation was

joined by strategic partners, including

Air Seychelles, Amity Villa, and Laïla, A

Tribute Portfolio Resort. The national

carrier highlighted ongoing efforts

to enhance regional air connectivity,

underscoring the UAE’s role as a vital

gateway to the islands. The roadshows

are part of Tourism Seychelles’ wider

strategy to maintain its visibility in

high-growth markets within the GCC

and equip travel agents with the tools

needed to drive demand.

Emirates Urges UAE Nationals to Check

Passport Validity Before Travel

Emirates Airlines has issued

a travel advisory urging UAE

nationals to verify the validity of

their passports or Emirates IDs before

traveling. This recommendation comes

in light of increasing travel volumes and

stringent international documentation

requirements. Many destinations mandate

that passports have a minimum of six

months’ validity, regardless of the entry

rules at the destination. Failure to meet

these requirements may result in denied

check-in or unexpected travel disruptions.

To assist travelers, Emirates notes that

passport renewal services are available

at Dubai Airport Terminal 3. The airline

strongly advises passengers to ensure their

documents meet the necessary validity

criteria prior to arriving at the airport

to facilitate smooth travel experiences.

UAE Travel & Tourism Market Set to Reach

$163.4B by 2033

The UAE’s travel and tourism

sector is poised for remarkable

growth, expected to expand from

$61.3 billion in 2024 to $163.4 billion by

2033, representing a compound annual

growth rate of 11%. This surge is driven

by extensive investments in world-class

infrastructure, luxury resorts, cultural

attractions, and entertainment facilities

across the country. Government initiatives,

including the UAE Tourism Strategy 2031,

aim to elevate the sector’s contribution to

GDP while promoting sustainable tourism

and attracting high-value visitors. The

nation’s focus on economic diversification,

digital innovation, and global connectivity

continues to enhance its appeal as a

premier destination for leisure, business,

and events. With rising international

arrivals, expanding aviation networks,

and growing hospitality offerings.


UAE Among World’s Top 5 Destinations for Night Tourism

The UAE has solidified its position

as a premier global destination

for night tourism, ranking fifth

globally, according to a recent index

by Confused.com. The study evaluated

highly rated TripAdvisor listings,

highlighting destinations offering

exceptional after-dark experiences.

The UAE boasts 140 well-reviewed

nocturnal activities, including 124 desert

safaris, 5 stargazing sessions, and

11 cultural evening tours. Notably, the

Dubai Safari Park Reopens

for 7th Season on October

14

Dubai Safari Park is set to reopen

on October 14, 2025, for its

seventh season, themed ‘Wild

Rules’. The park will operate daily

from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, offering

visitors a chance to explore over 3,000

animals across six themed zones. New

attractions include interactive wildlife

encounters, educational programs,

and live presentations focusing on

conservation efforts. Guests can opt

for Fast Track Access for quicker entry

to top experiences or book private tour

guide packages for small groups. The

park also features shuttle train rides

connecting various zones, providing

an immersive safari adventure. Ticket

prices start at AED 50 for general

admission, with additional packages

available for enhanced experiences.

This reopening marks a significant

milestone in Dubai’s commitment to

wildlife conservation and family-friendly

entertainment.

UAE was recently named the world’s

safest country to explore after dark,

with five UAE cities ranked among

the global top 10 for nighttime safety.

This surge in nocturnal tourism aligns

with the growing trend of ‘noctourism,’

where travelers seek unique adventures

after sunset. The UAE’s diverse

offerings, from desert excursions

to cultural experiences, continue to

attract international visitors seeking

memorable nighttime activities.

UAE-Africa Tourism Investment Summit to Foster

Sustainable Growth

The UAE-Africa Tourism Investment

Summit 2025 is scheduled

for October 27 at Madinat

Jumeirah, Dubai, under the theme

“Building Bridges for Sustainable

Growth.” Organized by the UAE Ministry

of Economy and Tourism as part

of FHS World 2025, the summit aims

to strengthen economic and tourism

relations between the UAE and Africa.

Over 350 participants, including ministers,

government officials, investors,

and entrepreneurs from the UAE and

53 African countries, will convene to

explore mutual investment opportunities

across various tourism sectors.

Discussions will focus on sustainable

tourism, infrastructure development,

financing, and the role of digital solutions

in enhancing connectivity and

visitor experiences, exploring ways

to strengthen tourism as a key driver.

Dubai Airport Aims to Welcome its 100Mth

Passenger within 18 Months

Dubai International Airport (DXB)

is poised to achieve a significant

milestone by welcoming

its 100 millionth passenger within the

next 18 months, according to CEO

Paul Griffiths. In 2024, DXB set a

new benchmark in global aviation by

receiving 92.3 million guests, the highest

annual traffic ever recorded in its

history. Griffiths attributes this growth

to Dubai’s strategic position as a global

hub and the increasing demand for international

travel. Looking ahead, DXB

is projected to handle approximately

115 million passengers by 2031 before

transitioning operations to the new Al

Maktoum International Airport at Dubai

World Central (DWC) in 2032. This

transition involves a phased approach,

with airlines like flydubai being among

the first to relocate. The move aims to

accommodate future growth.


Technology


Digital payments and biometric systems are transforming UAE airports into seamless, cashless, and efficient travel hubs.

The New Travel

Currency: Inside the

UAE’s Airport Revolution

in Digital Payments

UAE Airports are Pioneering Secure,

Contactless, and Tokenised Payment Solutions

for a Fully Digital Travel Experience.

The UAE is actively reshaping global travel

through a groundbreaking shift towards

fully digital payments across its airports.

As part of its national strategy to build

a fully cashless and technologically advanced

economy, the country is deploying

advanced technologies such as contactless

payments, biometric verification, and

tokenised financial systems to streamline

passenger transactions. These innovations

are fundamentally redefining how

travellers interact with airport services

while significantly improving efficiency,

convenience, and transparency for businesses.

Supported by robust regulatory

frameworks, strategic government initiatives,

and visionary leadership, the UAE’s

airports are emerging as global models

for seamless, secure travel experiences.


The United Arab Emirates is transforming

the travel experience

by making airports a model of

digital innovation. What began with the

introduction of contactless terminals

and mobile wallets has evolved into a

fully connected ecosystem of digital

payments, biometrics, and tokenised

value systems. The country’s major

airports, including Dubai International

and Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International, are

now serving as testbeds for next-generation

financial technology designed

to enhance efficiency, transparency,

and convenience for both travellers

and businesses.

Dual Approach for Airport6

Operators

Airport operators have adopted a dual

approach. They are rapidly expanding

contactless payment acceptance while

piloting advanced solutions such as

digital wallets, tokenised payment

systems, and blockchain-based settlement

channels. Tap-to-pay options

and mobile wallet integrations with

Apple Pay and Google Pay are already

widespread, while smaller merchants

benefit from simplified point-of-sale

solutions that accept payments through

minimal infrastructure. This widespread

digitisation reduces operational costs

and supports faster transaction times,

improving the overall passenger flow

and customer satisfaction rates across

terminals.

Alongside payments innovation, biometric

identification is playing a vital

role in reshaping airport operations.

Smart gates and biometric corridors

at Dubai and Abu Dhabi airports allow

passengers to pass through immigration

and boarding processes seamlessly,

using facial recognition and digital

identity verification. The integration

of biometric data with payment credentials

is creating opportunities for

frictionless retail experiences, loyalty

redemptions, and pre-booked service

confirmations. These developments

demonstrate how airports are aligning

with the UAE’s broader vision

for a smart, interconnected economy

powered by data-driven technologies.

Abu Dhabi Pilots Regulated Wallets

Abu Dhabi’s recent agreement to pilot

a regulated digital wallet at Zayed

International Airport highlights the

UAE’s readiness to embrace the next

phase of financial innovation. These

controlled pilots explore the potential

for stablecoin and crypto-linked

payment methods under the guidance

of financial regulators. The goal is to

create an environment where digital

assets can be used securely, within a

framework that ensures compliance

with anti-money laundering and consumer

protection standards. Such

initiatives reflect the UAE’s pragmatic

approach, promoting innovation while

maintaining regulatory discipline.

Airports are evolving from

gateways into platforms

for seamless digital

commerce. Through

our partnership with Al

Hail Holding and Xare

we will pilot cashless,

next-generation payment

technologies that

simplify every step of

the traveller journey and

redefine convenience,

sustainability and

financial access.”

Elena Sorlini,

Managing Director and Chief Executive

Officer, Abu Dhabi Airports

Central to this transformation is the

Central Bank of the UAE’s ongoing work

on the digital dirham. The proposed

central bank digital currency (CBDC)

aims to streamline cross-border payments,

enhance financial inclusion,

and reduce currency conversion costs

for international travellers. In parallel,

the introduction of tokenised fiat

mechanisms and improved regulatory

frameworks ensures that both fintech

companies and legacy financial institutions

can operate under a unified,

transparent system. By fostering collaboration

between the public and

private sectors, the UAE is positioning

its airports as global benchmarks for

financial modernisation.

The Shift to Digital Payments: How

it Benefits Airports

For airport retailers and service providers,

the shift to digital payments

offers tangible benefits. Transaction

speed and reliability have improved,

while the introduction of programmable

payment tools allows businesses to

create dynamic promotions, instant

refunds, and loyalty programmes that

drive higher customer engagement.

Unified payment platforms are helping

merchants manage multiple payment

types cards, mobile wallets, and digital

currencies, through a single interface,

reducing complexity and improving

reporting accuracy.

However, as airports grow increasingly

data-driven, privacy and cybersecurity

concerns remain at the forefront.

The use of biometrics in payments

and identification must comply with

strict data protection standards. UAE

authorities have established strong

governance frameworks ensuring that

biometric data is stored securely and

used only for authorised purposes. By

aligning these practices with international

standards, the UAE is strengthening

trust among global travellers and

reinforcing its position as a leader in

ethical digital innovation.

Ultimately, the UAE’s airport payment

revolution is setting a new global

standard for financial and operational

excellence in the aviation sector. By

integrating digital identity, tokenised

finance, and real-time settlement into

a unified system, the country is demonstrating

how innovation can enhance

both customer experience and business

performance.


Funding & Investment News

Crescent Enterprises

Launches AED 250

Million Investment

Programme

Crescent Enterprises has announced

an investment programme of AED

250 Million to scale CE-Creates,

its venture-building platform. The

fresh capital, combined with new

leadership, marks a major expansion

of CE-Creates’ role as a builder and

scaler of high-growth, impact-driven

startups from the UAE to the world.

Operating as a sector-agnostic venture

studio, CE-Creates will deploy

staged, patient capital alongside deep

operational expertise and ecosystem

access to turn early-stage concepts into

globally competitive businesses capable

of scaling from MENA to international

markets. Badr Jafar, CEO of Crescent

Enterprises, said, “The UAE has become

a launchpad for serious builders, and

our collective vision is for the country

to be known as the start-up capital of

the world. With CE-Creates, our venture

building platform, we’re helping

entrepreneurs convert purpose.”

UAE Announces $29B

Investment for 13 New

Housing Communities

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed

bin Zayed Al Nahyan attended

the unveiling of agreements to

develop 13 new residential communities

across Abu Dhabi, with a total

investment valued at AED 106 billion

($28.8 billion). The initiative is set to

provide more than 40,000 homes and

residential plots for Emirati citizens.

According to the agreements, the Abu

Dhabi Housing Authority and the Abu

Dhabi Projects and Infrastructure

Centre (ADPIC), working in partnership

with multiple developers, will

oversee the construction of 25,244

housing units at a cost of AED94 billion

($25.6 billion) and 14,876 residential

plots at AED12 billion ($3.3 billion).

The upcoming projects will be built to

international standards and planned as

fully integrated communities, featuring

commercial centres, mosques, schools,

public parks, green spaces, and sports

facilities.

Dubai Leads Global Greenfield FDI with 643

Projects in H1 2025

Dubai-based startup Popcorn AI

has raised $500,000 in a preseed

funding round to expand

its AI-powered conversational commerce

platform and transform how

businesses engage with customers. The

investment was led by Spring Studios

and included participation from Salica

Investments, Al Waha Fund of Funds,

and Saudi Arabian angel investors.

Popcorn AI’s platform uses advanced

AI agents to manage entire customer

journeys, including personalised

product recommendations and secure,

seamless payment processing within

natural conversations. The technology

has already proven its potential by

independently completing a $400,000

real estate transaction, demonstrating

real-world applicability. Early adopters

across various industries have

reported up to 90 per cent reduction

in customer acquisition costs and a 20

per cent increase in conversion rates,

highlighting its impact.

Qatar-UAE Investment Opportunities Meeting

Discusses Enhancing Cooperation

The Qatar Chamber (QC) welcomed

a high-level business delegation

from the United Arab Emirates

(UAE) on Thursday, comprising over

50 businessmen and businesswomen.

The delegation was led by Abdullah

bin Sultan Al Owais, Vice President of

the Federation of UAE Chambers and

President of the Sharjah Chamber of

Commerce and Industry. During the

meeting, both sides explored avenues

to enhance trade and economic cooperation,

highlighting the private sector’s

pivotal role in strengthening bilateral

relations and boosting investment exchange.

Discussions focused on mutual

investments in food security, renewable

energy, artificial intelligence, and logistics.

HE Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim

bin Mohammed Al-Thani, Chairman of

QC, emphasised that Qatar–UAE trade

represents strong Gulf cooperation.

Dubai Chambers Seeks to Enhance Trade and

Investment Relations with Ireland

Dubai Chambers explored potential

avenues for joint trade

and investment with public

and private sector stakeholders in

Ireland, aiming to strengthen economic

partnerships with the Irish business

community and unlock new opportunities

for growth and collaboration

across strategic sectors. The discussions

took place during an official

trade mission to Dublin, organised by

Dubai Chambers and led by Sultan bin

Saeed Al Mansoori, Chairman of Dubai

Chambers. He was joined by Mohammad

Ali Rashed Lootah, President and

CEO of Dubai Chambers, alongside a

delegation of senior business leaders

from Dubai. The mission formed part

of the ‘Growth Corridors’ initiative,

which seeks to enhance economic

cooperation and bolster trade relations

between Dubai and high-potential

global markets. They explored ways

of collaborating across key sectors.


UAE Railway to Generate $54.5B Economic Gains from $13.6B Investment

The UAE has allocated AED 50B

(USD 13.6B) to its National Railway

Programme, which is projected

to generate over AED 200B (USD

54.5B) in economic and developmental

value. Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei,

Minister of Energy and Infrastructure,

highlighted that the government

considers the land transport sector,

particularly railways, as a cornerstone

of the Projects of the 50 initiative.

Launched in 2021, the National Railway

Programme represents the country’s

largest transport system of its kind,

supported by investments amounting

to AED 50B (USD 13.6B). Ahead of

the Global Rail 2025 Exhibition and

Conference in Abu Dhabi, Al Mazrouei

noted that the programme extends far

beyond physical infrastructure. He

explained that it is part of a broader

vision designed to deliver returns.

Abu Dhabi Chamber, KITA Strengthen Trade and

Investment Cooperation

The Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce

and Industry (ADCCI),

in partnership with the Korea

International Trade Association (KITA),

has hosted a business forum under

the theme “Expanding Trade Horizons

Between Abu Dhabi and Korea”. The

event, held at Rixos Marina Hotel in

Abu Dhabi, aimed to explore new avenues

for trade and investment while

reinforcing the continued growth in

bilateral relations. The UAE and South

Korea recorded an 11% rise in trade in

2024 compared to the previous year,

reaching AED 84.7 billion ($23.1 billion).

Non-oil trade saw a significant increase

of 42.5% during the same period. While

UAE exports to South Korea registered

a modest decline, imports rose by

14% to AED18.7 billion ($5.1 billion),

reflecting a balanced expansion in

overall trade activity, highlighting its

strategic location and infrastructure.

Abu Dhabi Sovereign Fund Leads LG India IPO Launch

Abu Dhabi Investment Authority

(Adia) has joined as an anchor

investor in the $1.3 billion initial

public offering (IPO) of LG Electronics’

Indian arm, which opens for

subscription on October 7. According

to Reuters, the Abu Dhabi sovereign

wealth fund invested slightly over

INR1 billion ($11.3 million). Other

prominent anchor investors include

HSBC, BlackRock, Goldman Sachs,

and Fidelity Investments. Collectively,

anchor investors have secured 30

per cent of the 101.8 million shares

available in the IPO. LG, one of India’s

leading home appliances and consumer

electronics manufacturers, has

priced the IPO between INR1,080 and

INR1,140 ($12.16–$12.84) per share.

The company, a wholly owned subsidiary

of South Korea’s LG Electronics,

began accepting anchor investor bids

on Monday and is scheduled to list its

shares on October 14. If priced at the

upper end of the range, the IPO would

value LG’s Indian unit at approximately

$8.7 billion, notably lower than the

$15 billion valuation initially targeted

in December, according to the report.

EDB Launches $136M

Funding Initiative for UAE

Startups

The UAE has launched a nationwide

entrepreneurship initiative

to strengthen its position as a

leading global startup destination.

Emirates Development Bank (EDB)

has announced AED 500 million (USD

136 million) in new financing and business

support as part of the national

campaign, “The Emirates: Startup

Capital of the World,” initiated by

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum,

Vice President, Prime Minister

and Ruler of Dubai. The bank’s latest

offering includes tailored financial

solutions and assistance for startups

and micro, small, and medium

enterprises (MSMEs), reinforcing its

commitment to driving innovation and

entrepreneurship across the nation.

The campaign is designed to accelerate

entrepreneurship across all seven

emirates by offering founders easier

access to financing, digital onboarding

services, mentorship networks, and

accelerator programmes.


Market

Currency Markets

Remain Calm

Amid AI Turmoil

While tech stocks had their worst

week since April’s “liberation

day” crash, currency markets

largely took the AI mini-crash in stride.

G10 currencies remained in tight ranges,

while some emerging market currencies

posted modest gains. Amid this calmness,

it is worth noting that Sterling weathered

the Bank of England’s dovish turn

in November well, posting modest gains

against the dollar. The week’s loser was

the New Zealand dollar on disappointing

labor market data there. As this is written,

hopes are rising for a resolution to the US

Federal shutdown impasse. This would

restart the release of economic data and

shed much-needed light on the state of

the US economy.

Enrique Díaz-Álvarez, Chief Economist

at Ebury said: “Next week will

be busy for Sterling, as labor market

data released Wednesday is followed

by third-quarter GDP and September

industrial production on Thursday. Little

is expected to happen in the Eurozone.

Whether we receive any market-moving

news about the US economy will of

course depend on an agreement to end

the shutdown. We will also be following

developments in the stock market,

as wealth effects and the impact of AI

investment have probably been a net

support for the US dollar.”

GBP

The Bank of England maintained rates

unchanged last week, but barely, as four

of the nine MPC members dissented, more

than had been expected. Sterling bore

this surprisingly well, rebounding after a

short post-meeting downdraft. While we

wait for the key November 26th budget

release, this week’s economic data will be

key, given the apparent data dependence

of the MPC. The employment report on

Tuesday and the flash GDP release on

Wednesday are key. Any positive surprise

on either will force markets to reprice

the chances of a December cut, currently

seen at 70%.

EUR

The only notable news from the Eurozone

this week will be the release of the first

revision to third-quarter GDP numbers.

We look to it to confirm the modest improvement

in the tone of economic news

lately. With the ECB on hold for the foreseeable

future, we continue to wait for

evidence of the massive German fiscal

stimulus package, announced earlier this

year, to start showing up in the leading

economic indicators, which may be the

catalyst needed for another leg up in the

euro versus the dollar.

USD

The limited privately or state-sourced data

that we are still getting from the US suggests

that job creation remains anemic,

but layoffs remain at very low levels. Last

week’s Challenger layoff report seemed

to show a spike in firings, but we would

heavily discount this particular data point,

as it has not been a reliable indicator in

the past. While the U.S. economy appears

relatively undamaged by the shutdown,

this could quickly begin to change if it

lasts much longer. Air travel cancellations

and chaos this week may be the first sign

of lasting damage. We do expect the additional

political pressure from this and

other impacts to bring about an agreement

that will restore the normal flow of data

and economic reports.


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Business News

Dubizzle Group to List 30% Stake This November

Dubizzle Group has announced

plans to offer a 30.34 per cent

stake through an initial public

offering (IPO) on the Dubai Financial

Market (DFM), setting the stage for

one of the largest tech listings in the

UAE this year. The move marks a

new phase in the company’s regional

expansion and financial growth strategy.

The offering will comprise 1.25

billion ordinary shares, representing

just over 30 per cent of the company’s

post-offer capital. Once listed, the

Dubizzle Group will have 4.12 billion

shares outstanding. Subscription for

both retail and institutional investors

opens on October 23 and closes on

October 29, with the final offer price

set to be announced on October 30.

Shares will be allocated and confirmed

by November 4, and trading is expected

to begin on November 6, 2025.

DP World and Tashkent

Partners to Build

Logistics Hub in

Uzbekistan

DP World, a global leader in

smart logistics and supply chain

solutions, has entered into a

joint venture with Tashkent Invest,

a subsidiary of the Tashkent City Administration,

to develop and operate

a modern multimodal logistics terminal

near Uzbekistan’s capital city.

The collaboration marks a significant

milestone in advancing Uzbekistan’s

logistics infrastructure and aligns

with the country’s strategy to establish

itself as a key trade hub in the

region. Situated within the Yangi Avlod

Special Industrial Zone in Tashkent’s

Yangihayot district, the new terminal

aims to enhance regional connectivity,

streamline trade processes, and support

Uzbekistan’s broader objectives of

economic diversification and industrial

development. Under the agreement,

Tashkent Invest will hold a 15 per cent

equity stake, while DP World will own

the remaining 85 per cent.

Abu Dhabi-Listed FAB Expands ‘Blue Bond’

Issuances to $70M

First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) has

issued its second “blue bond,”

bringing its total issuance of

the sustainability-linked instruments

to $70 million so far this year. Blue

bonds are a growing segment within

sustainable finance, designed to support

initiatives that preserve marine

ecosystems and improve water management.

FAB’s issuances align with its

broader sustainable finance framework.

FAB’s latest offering is a $20 million,

Abu Dhabi Customs has signed a

cooperation agreement with the

UK-based Competere Group, a

leading consultancy in economic policy

and trade law, to drive innovation in

trade facilitation and strengthen global

competitiveness. The partnership aims

to leverage advanced technologies

and future-focused economic models

to create a business environment

that supports sustainable growth in

international trade. The agreement

was signed by Rashed Lahej Al Mansoori,

Director General of Abu Dhabi

Customs, and Shanker Singham, CEO

of Competere Group, in the presence

of Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman

of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic

Development (ADDED), and

Mansoor Abulhoul, UAE Ambassador

to the United Kingdom. The signing

three-year blue bond listed on the Abu

Dhabi Securities Exchange. The bank

has not disclosed the client’s identity

or detailed financial terms.

This follows FAB’s earlier HKD 390

million ($50 million) five-year blue

bond issued in August through a private

placement. Proceeds from the issuances

will fund several key projects, including

wastewater treatment plants with

a combined capacity of 430,000 cubic

metres per day, supporting irrigation.

Abu Dhabi Customs and Competere Group

Advance Trade Innovation

took place on the sidelines of the Abu

Dhabi Investment Forum in London.

This collaboration underscores Abu

Dhabi Customs’ leadership in building

an integrated, digitally enabled customs

ecosystem.


Empower Announces AED 437.5 Million Dividend for H1 2025

The General Assembly of Emirates

Central Cooling Systems Corporation

(Empower) has approved

a cash dividend of AED437.5 million

($119.1 million) for the first half of

2025. This payout equals 4.375 fils per

share, representing 43.75 per cent of the

company’s paid-up capital. The meeting,

held on Thursday, was chaired by Saeed

Mohammed Al Tayer, Chairman of the

Board of Directors, alongside Ahmad

bin Shafar, CEO, and other board members.

Shareholders also elected a new

Board of Directors for the 2025–2028

term, including Saeed Mohammed Al

Tayer, Amit Kaushal, Issam Kazim, Fatma

Belrehif, Hussain Lootah, Majed Al

Joker, and Nasser Lootah. Empower

reported revenues of AED1.45 billion

and a net profit of AED403 million for

the first half of 2025, reflecting continued

growth in the district cooling

sector. The dividend distribution aligns

with the company’s established policy

to reward shareholders.

Dubai’s DEWS Savings

Scheme Surpasses $1

Billion Milestone

The DIFC Employee Workplace

Savings (DEWS) scheme has

surpassed $1 billion (AED 3.67

billion) in assets under administration

(AuA), marking a major milestone for

the region’s pioneering workplace savings

initiative. Launched in February

2020, DEWS replaced the traditional

end-of-service gratuity system with a

fully funded, professionally managed

savings plan emphasising transparency,

sustainability, and long-term

employee financial security. Since its

inception, the scheme has expanded

across the DIFC community and now

includes employees in 61 Government

of Dubai entities.

To date, 2,726 employers have enrolled,

covering 74,323 employees, who

benefit from regulated savings and the

opportunity to grow end-of-service

benefits through diversified investment

options. Payouts to participants

have already exceeded $340 million

(AED 1.25 billion), reflecting strong

trust in the scheme’s governance and

regulatory framework.

ADNOC Subsidiaries to Pay $43B Dividends by 2030

The Abu Dhabi National Oil Company

(ADNOC) has announced

that its six publicly listed subsidiaries

plan to distribute AED158 billion

($43.02 billion) in dividends by 2030.

This ambitious target nearly doubles

the AED86 billion paid out since 2017,

when ADNOC Distribution became the

first subsidiary to go public. The move

reflects ADNOC’s ongoing efforts to

deliver stronger investor returns while

accelerating its transformation into a

Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi,

Minister of Foreign Trade, reiterated

the UAE’s firm commitment

to open and rules-based trade as a cornerstone

of long-term global development

during the G20 Trade and Investment

Ministerial Meeting (TIMM) held in Gqeberha,

South Africa. During his address, Al

Zeyoudi emphasised the UAE’s dedication

to fostering international collaboration to

tackle modern trade challenges. He called

for collective efforts to strengthen and

modernise supply chains while improving

the accessibility and fairness of the global

trading framework. The G20 Trade and

Investment Ministerial Meeting serves as

the key platform for member countries

leading global energy and petrochemical

powerhouse. ADNOC continues to attract

significant capital by selling stakes in its

subsidiaries, allowing it to reinvest in

strategic growth areas. The company

aims to rank among the world’s top

three petrochemical producers and top

five gas businesses within the decade.

Its international investment arm, XRG,

established last year, plays a crucial role

in advancing these global expansion goals

across industries.

UAE Highlights Open, Rules-Based Trade for

Long-Term Growth at G20 Meeting

to deliberate on trade and investment

priorities, which subsequently shape

discussions at the G20 Leaders’ Summit

in November. Invited as a special guest

by South Africa in its capacity as G20

President, the UAE delegation, led by Al

Zeyoudi, on growth of the WTO.


Opinion

Can a Tech-First Middle

East Redefine Private

Markets?

Public markets are embedding predictive

analytics from forecasting to risk management

– so why have private market players been

slower to follow suit? With the Middle East

embracing digitisation and building a tech-first

industry, could it become a proving ground?

Divya Doshi, Managing Director at IQ-EQ,

explains why adopting these tools is key to

meeting rising investor expectations and

driving performance.

The day-to-day pressures on private

market managers and their chief

financial officers (CFOs) have

intensified over the past year. They are

balancing operational frameworks amid

a whirlwind of technological change,

while also facing heightened attention

from institutional investors, sovereign

wealth funds (SWFs) and family offices

worldwide. The stakes are particularly

high in the Middle East, where investors

are increasingly digitally savvy and

strategically deploying capital at scale.

Regional SWFs and family offices aren’t

just increasing allocations, they are shaping

global fund terms, demanding greater

transparency, and setting new standards

for governance and alignment.

For CFOs therefore, winning the investor

selectivity race means adapting

operations, ensuring robust reporting

and transparency, and maintaining a clear

track record. Relying on backwards-looking

reporting or gut instinct is no longer

enough, they need to explore every

possible avenue to sharpen performance.

IQ-EQ’s latest global survey underscores

this shift. More than half (55 per cent) of

CFO respondents said that meeting LPs’

demands for transparency has required

substantial operational adjustments in

the past year alone. While this has always

been a challenge, the fact that so many are

citing major adjustments in just the last

12 months highlights the growing weight

of the reporting burden as pressure rises.

In response, 38 per cent of private markets

CFOs are actively prioritising digital

transformation, including the adoption of

artificial intelligence (AI) and predictive

analytics, to create value. While predictive

analytics is typically applied at the

deal level to support investment decision-making,

the Middle East is beginning

to experiment with technology-driven

reporting tools that enhance flexibility,

transparency, and investor alignment.

Yet, there is still work to be done. We

are only scratching the surface of how

powerful predictive analytics can be as a

part of CFO’s toolkits. With the right data

foundations and cultural shift, private

markets can move from reactive reporting

to proactive, data-led decision-making.

Operational discipline is critical, and

there is now near-universal recognition

across businesses of all types that AI is

no longer a ‘nice to have’, but a strategic

necessity. For CFOs across the Middle

East specially, with this mounting pressure

from investors, there is no room to take

the foot off the gas.

The Ongoing Data Dilemma

Predictive analytics is not really an

emerging concept; it is already widely

embedded in many operating companies

and investible sectors. For example, in

transport and real estate, firms use it to

anticipate demand or project vacancy

rates of a building. While these examples

illustrate the potential of data-led

decision-making, the adoption in private

markets is more complex and less mature.

The data available to private market

fund managers is often scattered, incomplete,

and siloed – and securing trusted

intelligence is a significant obstacle.

Globally, this industry is still working

towards more sophisticated data analytics,

particularly for high-impact areas like

deal sourcing. According to a survey of

PE firms by S&P Global, 43 per cent of

respondents said that better data analytics

could benefit the deal sourcing process,

while only 3 per cent are actually leveraging

it. The Middle East, however, is

laying the groundwork for digitisation

and building a tech-first ecosystem though

its private markets infrastructure is still

in early development. This presents an

opportunity to shape future adoption,

especially in operational areas like reporting

and governance.

Flipping The Script

Boards and CFOs can shift the conversation.

While dissecting last quarter’s

performance is critical for improvement,

growing investor demand for transparency

means using data to look forward is

equally important. They should be asking

the hard questions: what’s the predicted

performance of this company in six or 12

months from now? Where are the early

warning signs of risk or opportunity? What

decisions need to be made today to meet

investors’ expectations tomorrow?

This is where predictive analytics allows

CFOs to flip the script, moving from

simply explaining what went wrong to

identifying potential issues before they materialise.

With predictive tools, firms can

model the downstream impact of today’s

decisions, helping to spot potential liquidity

constraints before they hit, identify

emerging investment opportunities, and

highlight underperforming assets earlier. In

the Middle East especially, where private

investments are increasingly diversified

across asset classes, predictive analytics

offers firms the chance to anticipate rather

than react, staying one step ahead in

a fast-moving market where agility and

investor alignment are crucial.

Building Your Data Case

To tap into the full potential of predictive

analytics, firms must first lay the

groundwork for data transformation.

This includes updating the underlying

infrastructure, as predictive tools must

seamlessly integrate with existing systems,


and ensuring data is consistent, reliable,

and accessible in real time. Maintaining

data quality is critical for generating insights

that drive investment decisions

and optimise operations.

Firms must have the ability to source

and access consistent, reliable data in

a timely fashion. Ultimately, investors

are increasingly demanding confidence

that firms can scale responsibly, respond

quickly to market shifts, and maintain

strong governance and operational discipline.

They also want detailed reporting

on portfolio performance, cash flows, and

valuations, ideally with real-time or timely

updates rather than annual or quarterly

snapshots. Real time dashboards support

this by giving CFOs and investment teams

instant access to the relevant metrics and

offering granular insights into areas like

asset performance and valuation. This

makes reporting and decision-making

far more data driven.

But this shift reaches beyond technology

alone. CFOs must also continue to

champion a culture of digital adoption,

looking beyond the short-term expense

of investing in new technology resources,

and instead focusing on the long-term

value-add. In the Middle East, where

investor selectivity and emphasis on

established relationships are lengthening

fundraising cycles, this is especially

critical. This mindset should also involve

investing in skilled talent, such as data

scientists and analytics specialists, as

well as upskilling existing teams, and

embedding data-led thinking into every

function. These approaches will help

the Middle East gradually strengthen its

position in digital adoption within private

markets, particularly in areas where investor

expectations around transparency

and reporting are already driving change.

Ultimately, embedding predictive analytics

into the DNA of private markets

will help firms navigate rising investor

expectations more effectively, unlock

hidden value, and drive better long-term

performance. The success stories of tomorrow

will be defined by those who

can see, and act on, what’s coming down

the track.

Divya Doshi

Managing Director,

IQ-EQ


Energy News

Brenntag to Showcase Energy Solutions at ADIPEC 2025

Brenntag Energy Services is

set to showcase its chemical

solutions at Adipec 2025, the

premier global event for the energy

sector, scheduled from November 3 to

6 at the ADNEC Centre in Abu Dhabi,

UAE. The company provides advanced

chemical solutions across drilling,

cementing, stimulation, production,

refinery, and renewable energy sectors,

demonstrating its commitment to

innovation and sustainability. As the

energy industry continues to underpin

the global economy, Brenntag aims to

support its transformation with efficient

and environmentally responsible solutions.

At the event, the Brenntag Energy

Services team will engage with industry

leaders, sharing insights on how its

offerings can contribute to a cleaner,

more efficient, and sustainable energy

future, reinforcing the company’s role.

UAE: EWEC Awards

1.5GW Khazna Solar

PV Deal to Engie, Masdar

The Emirates Water and Electricity

Company (EWEC), responsible

for integrated planning, procurement,

supply, and system dispatch of

water and electricity across the UAE,

has awarded its 1.5-gigawatt (GW)

Khazna Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Independent

Power Project to global

low-carbon energy leader Engie, with

Masdar joining as the local shareholder.

Following the award, EWEC signed

the power purchase agreement (PPA)

with the consortium. Khazna Solar PV

forms part of EWEC’s strategic plan

to expand Abu Dhabi and UAE solar

capacity. Once operational, the plant

will generate enough electricity for

around 160,000 homes and reduce

over 2.4 million metric tonnes of carbon

emissions annually. Nearly three

million solar panels will track the sun

to maximise energy output, supporting

EWEC’s target of 18GW solar capacity

in Abu Dhabi by 2035.

Tabreed Completes its Two Largest Deals to Fast-

Track Expansion Across the Region

The National Central Cooling

Company (Tabreed) has finalised

its largest-ever transactions,

marking a significant milestone in its

regional expansion and reinforcing its

concession-based business model. In

partnership with CVC DIF, Tabreed

acquired PAL Cooling Holding from

Multiply Group for AED 3.87 billion,

adding 600,000 refrigeration tons (RT)

and increasing its connected capacity

Emirates Petroleum Company

PJSC (Emarat), a leading force

in the UAE’s energy retail sector,

has forged a strategic partnership with

MegaTrade, a prominent Armenian fuel

and energy company under SIL Capital.

This collaboration marks the introduction

of the internationally recognised

Emarat brand in Armenia. Under the

agreement, MegaTrade will work with

Emarat to establish and operate a nationwide

network of Emarat-branded

service stations, ensuring adherence

to global standards for fuel quality,

health, safety, and operational efficiency.

The partnership aims to elevate

benchmarks within Armenia’s energy

sector. The signing ceremony took place

at Yerevan’s Albert Hall, attended by

by 13% to 1.55 million RT. The additional

capacity stems from eight concessions

across Abu Dhabi’s main island and Al

Reem Island, supported by five operational

plants. Announced in June, the

deal also secures long-term contracts

averaging 25 years with leading developers

such as Aldar, Modon Holding,

and Imkan. Bakheet Al Katheeri,

Chairman, emphasised the focus on

sustainable growth.

Emarat and MegaTrade Collaborate to Bring the

UAE’s Premier Energy Brand to Armenia

H.E. Tigran Avinyan, Mayor of Yerevan,

and H.E. Dr. Nariman Mohd Sharif

Abdulla Al Mulla, UAE Ambassador to

Armenia, with Eduard Sukiasyan and

H.E. Ali Khalifa Al Shamsi formalising

the agreement.


DEWA Joins vPAC Alliance, Becoming First Utility in MENA Region

Dubai Electricity and Water Authority

(DEWA) has become the

first power utility in the Middle

East and North Africa (MENA) region

to join the global Virtual Protection

Automation and Control (vPAC) Alliance,

a network of leading organisations

in the energy systems sector. The

membership was announced during

the 27th Water, Energy, Technology

and Environment Exhibition (WETEX)

2025. In the presence of Saeed Mohammed

Al Tayer, MD and CEO of DEWA,

the agreement was signed by Hussain

Lootah, Executive Vice President of

Transmission Power, and Brant Heap,

Chairperson of vPAC Alliance. Al Tayer

highlighted that joining the alliance

aligns with Dubai’s vision to leverage

Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies,

enabling DEWA to exchange best

practices, adopt innovative solutions,

and share expertise in smart grids and

advanced infrastructure.

Abu Dhabi Department

of Energy to Showcase

AI-powered Platform

at GITEX Global

The Abu Dhabi Department of

Energy (DoE) has announced

its participation in GITEX

Global 2025, within the Abu Dhabi

Government Pavilion. The DoE will

showcase its digital technologies and

AI-driven initiatives that are reshaping

Abu Dhabi’s energy, water, district

cooling, and petroleum products sectors,

including AD.WE, a pioneering

AI-powered platform for real-time

resource management in the Emirate.

DoE’s presence at GITEX Global

reinforces Abu Dhabi’s leadership in

smart infrastructure and future energy

systems, driven by the accelerated

adoption of smart technologies, in

line with the UAE’s Net Zero 2050

goals. Participation at the event will

also provide a platform to strengthen

partnerships and attract investment

to accelerate innovation across the

energy, water, district cooling, and

petroleum products sectors.

Mubadala Energy Achieves 36.5% Reduction

in Scope 1 and 2 Greenhouse Gas

Mubadala Energy, the Abu

Dhabi-based international

energy company, has reported

significant progress across its Environmental,

Social, and Governance

(ESG) priorities, highlighted by a 36.5

per cent reduction in Scope 1 and 2

greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The

company’s 2024 Sustainability Report

also underlined advances in social

areas, including health and safety and

The UAE, represented by the Ministry

of Energy and Infrastructure, is

showcasing its leadership in clean

energy transition and the development of

smart, integrated infrastructure at the 34th

Egypt Energy Exhibition, held alongside

the 5th FIREX Egypt 2025 in Cairo from

14th to 16th October. This participation

highlights the UAE’s commitment to

fostering regional and global partnerships,

sharing expertise in renewable

energy, and demonstrating its progress

in balancing economic development with

environmental stewardship. The ministry

is emphasising the impact of modern

technologies, artificial intelligence, and

community investment, while maintaining

robust governance standards.

Emissions intensity fell sharply from

15.57 to 6.95 tonnes CO₂e per kboe,

marking a 55 per cent year-on-year

decline, driven by decarbonisation

efforts and enhanced production efficiency.

Additionally, flared gas across

the portfolio decreased by 12.8 per

cent. Sustainability remains central

to operations, and reinforcing trust.

UAE Highlights its Sustainable Energy Transition

at Egypt Energy & FIREX 2025

sustainable financing in driving the global

energy transition, while supporting

international efforts to achieve climate

neutrality. Through this platform, the

UAE aims to reinforce its position as a

forward-thinking energy leader.


Real Estate


Abu Dhabi’s new mini-city offering integrated living, shopping, and leisure experiences in a strategic location.

Planning the Future:

Investment and

Opportunities in the

New “Mini-City”

A Visionary Development Redefining Urban

Living, Retail Innovation, and Sustainable Growth

between Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

Abu Dhabi’s vision for sustainable urban

growth has taken a major step forward

with the launch of a AED 55 billion ($15

billion) mini-city between Abu Dhabi and

Dubai. This groundbreaking project is

designed to redefine the region’s retail,

residential, and commercial landscapes

while promoting innovation, connectivity,

and sustainability. Strategically positioned

to link two of the UAE’s most dynamic

economic centres, the development will

feature expansive retail zones, diverse

housing options, world-class education

and healthcare facilities, and vibrant

cultural spaces. It reflects Abu Dhabi’s

commitment to creating self-sustaining

communities that enhance the quality of

life and drive long-term economic growth.


Abu Dhabi’s pursuit of urban innovation

and retail excellence

has reached a new milestone

with the unveiling of a AED 55 billion

($15 billion) mini-city planned between

Abu Dhabi and Dubai. This visionary

development aims to reshape the

region’s urban and retail landscape,

symbolising the emirate’s ambition

to redefine connectivity, lifestyle, and

commerce within one of the world’s

fastest-growing corridors.

Positioned as a landmark in Abu

Dhabi’s retail evolution, the project

is envisioned as a dynamic hub for

shopping, living, and leisure, catering

to both residents and visitors. Its

scale and integrated planning are set

to influence key sectors, from residential

and commercial development

to cultural engagement and tourism,

reinforcing the UAE’s status as a centre

The UAE represents a

leading model in the field

of sustainable housing,

having successfully

developed modern

projects that rely on smart

solutions and eco-friendly

designs, aligned with the

objectives of the ‘We the

UAE 2031’ vision.”

H.E. Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Minister

of Energy and Infrastructure

of innovation and modern urban living.

Prime Location and Forward Vision

The mini-city is ideally located along the

Abu Dhabi to Dubai motorway in the Al

Mamoura district, ensuring convenient

access to both emirates. Its position

allows smooth connectivity for commuters

and tourists, serving as a vital

link between two of the UAE’s leading

economic centres. This strategic placement

reflects the developers’ vision to

establish a central destination that is

accessible, appealing, and positioned

for long-term growth.

The site was chosen for its geographic

advantages and its ability to support

large-scale urban development. Close

proximity to major airports, highways,

and business zones positions

the mini-city as an essential hub within

the region’s urban and commercial

framework. Its location is expected

to attract investors, businesses, and

residents seeking a modern, connected,

and integrated lifestyle.

Comprehensive Urban Planning

The Abu Dhabi mini-city is envisioned

as a fully integrated ecosystem, combining

residential, commercial, educational,

and recreational spaces into a

seamless and sustainable environment.

Every aspect has been planned to meet

diverse needs, enhancing residents’

quality of life while also driving retail

and tourism growth.

At the heart of the project are its

residential offerings, which include

14,000 apartments, 1,700 villas, and

1,000 townhouses. These varied housing

options are designed to appeal to a wide

demographic, including professionals,

families, expatriates, and luxury home

seekers.

Beyond scale, the focus is on quality of

living. Green spaces, landscaped parks,

and pedestrian-friendly streets encourage

an active and outdoor lifestyle. By

blending contemporary architecture

with sustainable design, the development

seeks to build a community that is

vibrant, inclusive, and environmentally

responsible.

Retail and Commercial Spaces

Retail is a key element of this major

development, with a planned 278,700

square metre shopping mall that will

be among the largest in the region. The

mall will feature international and local

brands, dining venues, entertainment

zones, and leisure attractions, offering

a complete retail experience.

This commercial hub is expected to

attract visitors from across the UAE

and neighbouring countries, strengthening

Abu Dhabi’s retail prominence.

Alongside the mall, the city will also

feature business centres, coworking

spaces, and office buildings to stimulate

economic growth and innovation,

ensuring the mini-city remains active

and commercially vibrant throughout

the day.

Holistic Community Facilities

To support the community’s long-term

well-being, the project includes three

schools, two universities, and a 200-bed

hospital. These facilities will ensure

that residents have access to quality

education and healthcare within the

city, reducing the need for lengthy

commutes. The presence of educational

institutions will attract families and

students, contributing to a thriving

learning environment. The hospital and

related medical facilities will provide

comprehensive healthcare, making the

mini-city an attractive destination for

long-term settlement.

To enhance the city’s lifestyle appeal,

the development includes a variety of

cultural and leisure facilities such as

museums, a golf course, indoor and

outdoor sports complexes, and three

hotels, including two five-star properties.

These amenities are designed

to promote tourism, recreation, and

cultural engagement while providing

residents with numerous lifestyle

options.

By integrating cultural, educational,

and recreational elements, the Abu

Dhabi mini-city represents the next

phase of urban development where

liveability, experience, and innovation

come together to create a vibrant and

sustainable community.

The Abu Dhabi mini-city retail development

marks a defining moment

in the UAE’s urban growth. Blending

strategic location, expansive retail

spaces, diverse housing, and robust

educational, healthcare, and cultural

infrastructure, it represents a comprehensive

model of modern city planning.

More than a physical development, it

embodies a vision for a self-sustaining

urban ecosystem that fosters economic

growth, community wellbeing.


Healthcare News

Moro Hub and DCAS Collaborate on Smart Healthcare

Moro Hub, a subsidiary of Digital

DEWA, and the Dubai Corporation

for Ambulance Services

(DCAS) have signed a comprehensive

Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)

to strengthen digital and smart healthcare

capabilities across Dubai. The

partnership aims to harness advanced

technologies, including artificial intelligence,

cloud computing, and data

Burjeel Launches Tru-

Check Blood Test for

Early Cancer Detection

Burjeel Hospitals has introduced

TruCheck, an advanced, non-invasive

blood test designed to

detect over 70 types of solid tumors,

including those of the breast, lung, liver,

pancreas, thyroid, and gastrointestinal

tract. This innovative test identifies

circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and their

clusters in the bloodstream, offering

a more direct and reliable signal of

malignancy compared to traditional

methods that primarily focus on circulating

tumor DNA (ctDNA). With a

sensitivity exceeding 95%, TruCheck

enables early detection of cancer, often

before symptoms manifest, thereby

facilitating timely intervention and

improved patient outcomes. The test

is particularly beneficial for individuals

with a family history of cancer

or those seeking proactive health

screening. By integrating TruCheck

into its diagnostic services, Burjeel

Hospitals reaffirms its commitment

to pioneering preventive healthcare

solutions and enhancing the quality

of life for its patients.

analytics, to optimise emergency medical

operations, reduce response times,

and elevate patient care standards. By

integrating innovative solutions, the

collaboration will support more efficient

ambulance dispatching, real-time

monitoring of medical emergencies,

and enhanced coordination between

healthcare providers. This initiative

reflects Dubai’s strategic vision.

University of Sharjah and Haleon Collaborate to

Upskill UAE Healthcare Professionals

The University of Sharjah and Haleon

have partnered to enhance

the skills of healthcare professionals

across the UAE. Through this

collaboration, Haleon will co-host a

series of conferences, workshops, and

seminars with the University, offering

students and recent graduates valuable

opportunities to engage with industry

experts and gain insights into the latest

developments in healthcare. These initiatives

aim to bridge the gap between

PureHealth has introduced virtual

mental health services across the

UAE through its AI-enabled Pura

app, in partnership with SAKINA, the

region’s largest mental health network.

This initiative aims to make mental

health support more accessible, responsive,

and human-centric. The Pura

app allows users to book private online

sessions with licensed psychologists

and psychiatrists from SAKINA’s expert

network, offering fast and secure support.

In addition to therapy sessions,

the app provides a growing suite of

academic knowledge and practical

application, ensuring that healthcare

professionals are well-equipped to meet

the evolving needs of the healthcare

sector. By fostering a closer connection

between academia and industry, this

partnership seeks to contribute to the

continuous improvement of healthcare

services in the UAE. The collaboration

underscores a shared commitment to

advancing healthcare education and

professional development in the region.

PureHealth Launches AI-Powered Pura App for

Accessible Mental Health Services in the UAE

guided meditations, self-help tools,

educational content, emotional resilience

resources, and preventive mental

wellness programmes tailored to users’

needs. Appointments are available to

all UAE residents, including those insured

by Daman, ensuring inclusivity

across demographics. This launch

reflects PureHealth’s commitment to

building a more inclusive, preventive,

and digitally-driven healthcare system,

empowering people to take charge of

their well-being and offering compassionate

pathways for support.


PureHealth Purchases 60% Stake in Greek Healthcare Group for $939M

PureHealth Holding, a prominent

healthcare group in the Middle East,

has completed the acquisition of a

60% stake in Hellenic Healthcare Group

(HHG), the leading private healthcare

provider in Greece and Cyprus, for a

total of €800 million ($939 million). The

deal values HHG at €1.3 billion on a 100%

equity basis and represents a major step

in PureHealth’s strategy to establish a

globally integrated, innovation-driven

Dubai Trials

AI-Powered Virtual ICU

to Enhance Critical

Patient Care

Dubai Health is piloting an

AI-driven “Virtual ICU” at Al

Jalila Children’s Hospital to

monitor critically ill patients in real

time. Utilising AI cameras, the system

tracks patient movements, facial

expressions, and skin tone, alerting

nurses to potential distress. Integrated

with Salama, Dubai Health’s unified

electronic medical record system, it

enables automatic tracking of vital

signs like heart rate and blood pressure.

This initiative, in collaboration

with the National Children’s Hospital

in Washington DC, aims to enhance

patient safety and response times.

Currently in the testing phase, the system

is set to go live in December, with

plans to expand to other ICUs based

on its impact. Additionally, Dubai

Health is testing Virufy, an AI-powered

app that analyses breathing and cough

sounds to detect respiratory diseases,

marking a significant step in AI-assisted

healthcare in Dubai.

healthcare platform based in Abu Dhabi.

Through this acquisition, PureHealth

will incorporate HHG’s 11 hospitals

and 23 diagnostic centres, extending

healthcare services to more than 1.4

million patients each year. Employing

over 6,900 healthcare professionals,

HHG now becomes a key component

of PureHealth’s international network,

further positioning Abu Dhabi as a global

hub for healthcare excellence.

NMC Royal Hospital Sold for AED 1.4 Billion

Dubai’s NMC Royal Hospital

has been acquired for AED

1.4 billion by Al Mal Capital

REIT, a UAE-based investment firm.

This strategic move marks the REIT’s

first healthcare investment and underscores

a shift towards essential service

sectors like healthcare in Dubai’s

investment landscape. The hospital,

located in Dubai Investments Park,

encompasses two hospital blocks and

a fully leased commercial building,

totaling 492,332 square feet. It operates

nearly 120 inpatient beds and offers

comprehensive outpatient services,

including a pharmacy and emergency

unit. The acquisition is secured under

a 17-year lease, ensuring long-term

operational stability and continuity

in providing medical services to the

At GITEX Global 2025, Abu Dhabi’s

Department of Health (DoH) unveiled

groundbreaking AI-driven

healthcare innovations, underscoring

its commitment to building the world’s

most intelligent and efficient healthcare

ecosystem. The department introduced

“The Next Generation Wellness Program,”

a comprehensive digital initiative that

integrates data from wearable devices

and medical records with AI-powered

analytics to generate deep, actionable

insights into various aspects of health

and wellness. This program aims to

extend healthy life expectancy across

the community by enabling more effective

preventive and personalized care.

Additionally, the “Smart Healthcare

Platform,” an integrated cloud-based

system leveraging digital tools and AI,

community. This deal highlights the

growing trend of institutional investment

in healthcare infrastructure,

offering a stable and sustainable opportunity

for investors while ensuring

accessible healthcare for residents.

Abu Dhabi Showcases AI-Powered Healthcare Solutions

at GITEX Global 2025

was showcased to deliver proactive,

continuous health interventions aimed

at improving individual and community

health outcomes.


XREAL One Pro

XREAL has introduced the One Pro, its most advanced

augmented reality glasses to date, merging ultra-clear

visuals, spatial computing, and sleek design into a

wearable powerhouse. Targeted at developers, tech-savvy

consumers, and enterprise

users, the

One Pro brings

AR into the real

world with unmatched

clarity

and usability.

Built on the success

of the Air and Air 2 series,

the XREAL One

Pro delivers spatial computing

capabilities, full 3D

environment mapping, and

compatibility with a wide array

of devices, making it a versatile AR

companion for work, play, and everything in between.

Expected Specs: AR Power, Minimal Design

Controls

Gesture-based interaction,

voice control (with Beam),

companion app

Brightness

Up to 500 nits per eye

Audio

Open-ear directional speakers

with spatial audio support

Field of View

52° diagonal FOV for immersive

experiences

Tracking

Inside-out 6DoF spatial

tracking with built-in sensors

and SLAM

Compute

Tethered system powered via

USB-C to smartphones, PCs,

or XREAL Beam

Display

Dual Micro-OLED 1080p displays

@ up to 120Hz refresh

rate

Compatibility

Works with Android, Windows,

macOS, and XREAL Beam

+ Build

Lightweight frame (under

100g), prescription lens support,

active cooling


Global Launch & UAE Availability

Expected Q1 2026

XREAL official website, select online retailers, and tech distributors globally

Why Choose the XREAL

One Pro

The XREAL One Pro pushes the boundaries of what AR

glasses can do in a lightweight form factor. Whether

you’re working with virtual screens, streaming, gaming,

or prototyping spatial apps, the One Pro offers a level

of polish and practicality that rivals more expensive

AR solutions. Designed to work across your devices,

it enhances everyday tasks without the bulk or battery

life compromises of traditional headsets.

Pros

Dual Micro-OLED displays with high

refresh rate

6DoF tracking and SLAM without external

cameras

Ultra-lightweight, wearable design

Native compatibility with XREAL Beam,

Android, and PC

Directional audio with spatial awareness

Performance Highlights

Multi-screen AR support for enhanced

productivity

Improved comfort and lens customization

options

Dual 1080p Micro-OLED displays with 120Hz refresh

52° FOV for wide-angle AR immersion

Inside-out 6DoF spatial tracking with no external

sensors

Cross-platform support: Android, macOS, Windows,

XREAL Beam

Slim, comfortable design with improved weight

distribution

Integrated spatial audio and gesture control

Cons

Tethered operation (not standalone)

Limited native apps compared to larger

platforms

Requires companion devices for full features

Less immersive than full VR headsets

Regional pricing/availability may vary

Final Thoughts

The XREAL One Pro refines AR glasses into a powerful and practical tool for everyday augmented experiences. Whether you’re

a content creator, tech enthusiast, or business user, the One Pro delivers immersive visuals, spatial awareness, and true portability

without the need for bulky gear. While it’s not a VR headset replacement, its strength lies in what it does best bringing

AR into real-world scenarios with clarity, simplicity, and cross-platform functionality.


Sports


Abu Dhabi hosts World Kickboxing Championships, attracting athletes and boosting the city’s global profile.

Abu Dhabi’s Sporting

Investments: Hosting

the World Kickboxing

Championships

Abu Dhabi Leverages World-Class Sporting

Events to Drive Economic Growth, Global

Recognition, and Community Development.

In a groundbreaking move that could

reshape global real estate investment,

Dubai has launched the Middle East’s

first licensed tokenized property platform,

allowing investors to own fractional shares

of prime real estate for as little as AED

2,000. The Dubai Land Department’s pioneering

initiative, developed in partnership

with the Virtual Assets Regulatory

Authority (VARA) and executed through

the Prypco Mint platform, attracted 224

investors from 44 nationalities within a

single day of launch, with 70% entering

Dubai’s real estate market for the first

time. This revolutionary approach transforms

traditional property ownership by

converting real estate assets into blockchain-based

digital tokens, enabling unprecedented

accessibility..


Abu Dhabi’s strategic investments

in sports infrastructure and

event hosting have transformed

it into a global sports hub. The upcoming

World Kickboxing Championships

(Masters and Seniors), scheduled

from November 21–30, 2025, at the

Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre

(ADNEC), marks a significant milestone

as the first time the event will be held

outside Europe. This development

underscores the UAE’s growing stature

in the global sports arena and reflects

the nation’s broader ambition to be a

leading destination for international

sporting events. Recent announcements

indicate a record participation

of over 2,500 athletes from more than

160 countries, highlighting the event’s

expanding international appeal and the

increasing global recognition of Abu

Dhabi as a sports capital.

Hosting international sporting events

such as the World Kickboxing Championships

brings significant economic

advantages to both Abu Dhabi and

the UAE. The arrival of thousands of

athletes, coaches, officials, and fans

stimulates local businesses, including

hotels, restaurants, transport services,

and entertainment venues, driving revenue

growth. Job opportunities expand

across event management, security,

logistics, and hospitality, benefiting

the local workforce. Additionally,

investment in world-class venues and

supporting infrastructure enhances the

city’s long-term capabilities, encouraging

future events and tourism. These

factors collectively strengthen Abu

Dhabi’s economy, diversify revenue

streams, and reinforce its reputation as

a global hub for major sporting events.

Economic Impact on Tourism and

Hospitality

Tourism and hospitality are among

the immediate beneficiaries, as hotels,

restaurants, and local attractions

experience higher occupancy and

spending, boosting seasonal revenues

and sustaining year-round tourism.

Employment opportunities also rise

substantially, encompassing roles in

event management, security, logistics,

transportation, and hospitality services,

which in turn strengthens the local

workforce. Moreover, infrastructure

enhancements, including transportation

networks, stadium upgrades, and event

facilities, ensure long-term benefits

for residents and support Abu Dhabi’s

capacity to host future global events.

These combined factors contribute to

a diversified and resilient economy,

reducing dependence on traditional

sectors such as oil and gas.

The World Kickboxing Championships

further enrich Abu Dhabi’s growing

portfolio of international sporting

events, which already includes the

Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, UFC

Fight Nights, and the NBA Abu Dhabi

Games. These events not only stimulate

economic activity but also elevate the

city’s global profile as a premier sports

tourism destination. Recent reports

suggest that sports-related tourism

contributed over AED 2.1 billion in

2024, with expectations for further

growth driven by the continued hosting

of high-profile competitions. Beyond

the immediate financial impact, the

successful execution of these events

demonstrates Abu Dhabi’s capability

to organise and deliver world-class

sporting experiences, thereby attracting

sponsorships, international media

attention, and broader investment

opportunities in the leisure and entertainment

sectors.

The UAE’s strong commitment to

sports forms a central pillar of its broader

economic diversification strategy,

reflecting a vision to reduce reliance

on traditional sectors such as oil and

gas while fostering sustainable growth.

By establishing itself as a global sports

hub, Abu Dhabi attracts significant

international attention, investment,

and strategic collaboration, drawing

athletes, tourists, and businesses from

around the world. This approach encourages

innovation and development

across multiple sectors, including

hospitality, infrastructure, logistics,

and technology, while creating new

employment opportunities for the local

workforce. Hosting world-class events

enhances the city’s global reputation,

promotes knowledge exchange, and

inspires youth participation in sports.

Collectively, these efforts contribute

to economic resilience, social development,

and Abu Dhabi’s emergence

as a leading international destination

for elite sporting events.

Strategic Benefits of Hosting

High-Profile Sporting Events

Hosting high-profile sporting events

significantly strengthens Abu Dhabi’s

international brand, positioning the city

as a premier destination for world-class

competitions and attracting attention

from global audiences. This visibility

encourages private sector participation

and foreign investment, supporting

business growth and economic diversification.

The impact of such events

extends far beyond immediate financial

gains, driving urban development, modernising

infrastructure, and enhancing

The UAE continues to

establish itself as a global

sports hub, successfully

hosting world-class

events that drive

economic growth, inspire

youth participation, and

enhance the nation’s

international profile.”

H.E. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of

Sports

lifestyle amenities for residents and

visitors alike. Additionally, these events

foster the growth of a vibrant sports

culture within the local community,

inspiring youth engagement and talent

development. They also facilitate

international partnerships, knowledge

exchange, and collaborations, creating

long-term social and economic benefits.

Collectively, these initiatives contribute

to Abu Dhabi’s sustained development

as a global sports and cultural hub,

ensuring lasting influence.


Sports News

Isaac del Toro Takes UAE Team Emirates-XRG’s 95th Win of Season

Isaac del Toro concluded an impressive

season with a dominant victory at

the Giro del Veneto, securing UAE

Team Emirates-XRG’s 95th win of the

year. The Mexican rider completed

the 161.2-kilometre race in 3 hours, 24

minutes, and 29 seconds, demonstrating

exceptional form and tactical precision.

His teammate, Pavel Sivakov, finished

just 22 seconds behind, sealing a onetwo

finish for the Emirati team. This

Dubai T100 Unveils 2025

Race Course and Event

Line-Up

The Dubai T100 has unveiled

the race course and format for

its 2025 edition, scheduled to

take place from 13 to 16 November as

part of the Dubai Fitness Challenge.

Starting at Jumeirah 3 Beach – Sunset,

the course will take athletes through

some of Dubai’s most scenic routes,

including the Meydan Racecourse,

before concluding against the striking

backdrop of the Burj Khalifa. The event

will feature three main categories: the

Duathlon Relay (5km run, 22km bike,

5km run), the Sprint Race (750m swim,

20km bike, 5km run) on 15 November,

and the signature 100km T100 Triathlon

(2km swim, 80km bike, 18km run) on

16 November. The popular 5km Music

Run also returns, reinforcing Dubai’s

growing status as a global destination

for world-class sporting and wellness

events.

latest triumph adds to a remarkable

season for UAE Team Emirates-XRG,

following standout performances such

as Tadej Pogačar’s victory at Il Lombardia

and Adam Yates’ success at the

inaugural Valdengo-Oropa. The team’s

consistent dominance underscores

its position as a global powerhouse

in professional cycling, combining

endurance, and teamwork to deliver

outstanding results.

Over 25,000 Students to Compete Across 25

Sports Disciplines in Dubai Schools Games

The sixth edition of the Dubai

Schools Games will see over

25,000 students from 185 schools

compete across 25 sporting disciplines,

making it the largest participation since

the initiative’s launch. Spanning 107

days, the event will include qualifying

rounds in football, athletics, volleyball,

and basketball, with new additions

such as judo, jiu-jitsu, taekwondo, laser

run, and water polo. Organised by ESM

in partnership with the Dubai Sports

Council and the Knowledge and Human

Development Authority (KHDA), the

event aims to promote physical fitness,

teamwork, and sportsmanship among

Dubai’s youth. Thirteen tournaments

will be broadcast live, and the season

will culminate with an awards ceremony

on 25 June 2026. Outstanding

performers will receive “Talent Cards,”

granting access to specialised training

and national-level exposure.

ADQ Signs Three-Year Sponsorship Agreement

with Azerbaijan’s Neftçi PFK

ADQ, a sovereign investor focused

on critical infrastructure and

global supply chains, has entered

into a three-year sponsorship deal with

Neftçi PFK, one of Azerbaijan’s premier

football clubs. The agreement is

designed to enable ADQ to engage with

Neftçi’s large and passionate fanbase

through numerous activations, improve

match-day experiences, and support

the continued development of football

in Azerbaijan. Neftçi, founded in 1937,

carries a rich legacy in the country’s

sporting history, having won multiple

national league titles and becoming

the first Azerbaijani club to reach the

group stages of a UEFA competition.

ADQ’s move reflects the strengthening

of ties between the UAE and Azerbaijan,

aiming to create economic, social, and

community value by celebrating shared

values such as teamwork, resilience,

and pride throughout the partnership.


UAE National Cycling Team Wins Medals at Arab Cycling Championship

The UAE national cycling team

delivered an outstanding performance

at the recent Arab Cycling

Championship, securing multiple medals

across individual and team events. Riders

demonstrated exceptional endurance,

strategy, and teamwork, reflecting the

UAE’s commitment to nurturing homegrown

talent in competitive cycling. The

squad’s achievements are the result of

years of investment in advanced training

UAE’s Victory Team

Leads Speed Races at

China Round of F1H2O

World Championship

The UAE’s Victory Team showcased

exceptional performance

at the third round of the F1H2O

World Championship in Zhengzhou,

China, dominating both the sprint

and qualifying races ahead of the

main event. Erik Stark secured first

place in the sprint race, with Sharjah

Team’s Rusty Wyatt finishing second

and China’s Peter Morin in third.

Teammate Shaun Torrente (Victory

4) clinched second place in the first

sprint behind Sweden’s Jonas Andersson,

who finished third. As per

the overall results, Andersson leads

the championship standings with 50

points, followed by Stark and Wyatt

with 46 points each, while Torrente

sits fourth with 44 points. The Victory

Team’s performance underscores the

UAE’s growing prominence in the

global powerboating arena, reflecting

their commitment to excellence and

competitive spirit.

programs, world-class coaching, and

state-of-the-art infrastructure designed

to prepare athletes for both regional

and international competitions. Beyond

the medals, the championship offered

invaluable experience, helping riders

refine tactics and gain exposure to

high-pressure race environments. The

success of the team reinforces the UAE’s

growing reputation in Arab and global

cycling circuits.

Junior Grand Prix Figure Skating Championship

2025 Kicks Off

The 2025 Junior Grand Prix

Figure Skating Championship

has officially begun, attracting

young athletes from across the world

to compete in a series of highly anticipated

events. Skaters will perform

in short programs and free skates,

with judges evaluating both technical

execution and artistic presentation,

highlighting their skill, creativity,

and athleticism. The championship

serves as a critical platform for

emerging talent to gain international

experience, improve world rankings,

and showcase innovative routines to

a global audience. Organisers aim to

The UAE Marine Sports Federation

showcased the nation’s achievements

in marine sports during the

Union Internationale Motonautique (UIM)

General Assembly in Shanghai, China.

Led by Vice President Khalid Jasim Al

Midfa, the UAE delegation emphasized

the country’s commitment to enhancing

its presence in international forums and

contributing to the global development

foster cross-cultural exchange while

promoting the growth of figure skating

as a competitive sport.

UAE Promotes Strategic Partnerships in Marine

Sports at UIM General Assembly

of marine sports. Discussions focused

on developing regulations for marine

sports races, exchanging expertise among

member states, and promoting joint

cooperation to organize distinguished

international marine events. This participation

aligns with the UAE’s strategy

to benefit from global best practices and

keep pace with the latest developments

in this vital field.


Corporate Results

Union Coop

H1’25 Net Profit: AED 173.6M

Union Coop in the UAE reported a net

profit of AED 173.6 million (US$47.27

million) after tax for the first half

of the year, marking a 6.4% increase

from AED 163.14 million (US$44.42

million) in the same period last year.

Total income reached AED 1.16 billion

(US$315.32 million), with AED 1.031

billion (US$280.74 million) from retail

sales, AED 88 million (US$23.96 million)

from real estate, and AED 39 million

(US$10.62 million) from other income

sources. Profit before tax stood at

AED 192 million (US$52.28 million).

Second-quarter profits in 2025 rose by

13% year-on-year, reflecting the success

of Union Coop’s operational strategy.

Additionally, the cooperative saw a 30%

increase in new customers and a 24%

rise in online sales, indicating strong

consumer engagement and growth in

its digital presence.

Advanced Petrochemical

Company

9M’ 2025 Net Profit: SAR

225M

Advanced Petrochemical Company posted

a net profit of SAR 225 million in the first

nine months of 2025, soaring by 675.86%

compared to SAR 29 million in the same

period last year. Revenues surged 44.45%

year-on-year to SAR 2.33 billion, up from

SAR 1.61 billion, according to preliminary

financial results. Earnings per share rose

to SAR 0.87, a sharp increase from SAR

0.11 in 9M-2024. In the third quarter of

2025, the company recorded SAR 72 million

in net profit, reflecting a 56.52% rise

from SAR 46 million in Q3-2024. Revenues

in Q3 grew 58.32% year-on-year to SAR

1.01 billion. However, quarter-on-quarter,

net profit declined by 12.19% from

SAR 82 million in Q2, while revenues

climbed 45.84% from SAR 698 million,

showing solid top-line growth despite

profit pressure.

Bank Muscat

9M’25 Net Profit: OMR 191.6M

Bank Muscat, Oman’s largest lender,

reported a 12% rise in net profit for

the first nine months of 2025, reaching

OMR 191.6 million (US$497.7 million),

driven by growth in both interest and

non-interest income. Operating profit

increased by 9% to OMR 271.6 million.

Net interest income from conventional

banking and income from Islamic banking

climbed 6% to OMR 311 million.

Non-interest income rose by 12% yearon-year

to OMR 124 million, compared

to OMR 110.3 million, supported by

higher investment income. The bank

also recorded a slight improvement in

asset quality, with net impairment losses

narrowing to OMR 43.6 million, down

from OMR 46 million in the same period

last year. These results highlight Bank

Muscat’s strong financial performance

and effective income diversification

strategy across its operations.

Sharjah Islamic Bank

9M’25 Net Profit: AED 1.10B

Sharjah Islamic Bank delivered a strong

financial performance during the first

nine months of 2025, recording a net

profit of AED 1.10 billion. This represents

a significant year-on-year increase

compared to AED 891.27 million

reported during the same period in

2024, reflecting the bank’s continued

focus on growth, efficiency, and prudent

financial management. The bank’s total

operating income also witnessed solid

growth, rising to AED 1.84 billion by

the end of September 2025, up from

AED 1.61 billion in the previous year.

Basic and diluted earnings per share

(EPS) climbed to AED 0.33 in 9M-2025,

compared to AED 0.26 during the corresponding

period last year, indicating

enhanced value for shareholders. For

the third quarter of 2025 alone, the

ADX-listed Islamic lender posted a net

profit of AED 408.04 million, reflecting

a healthy increase from Q3 of 2024.

Arab National Bank

9M’25 Net Profit: SAR 3.97B

Arab National Bank (ANB) reported

robust financial results for the first

nine months of 2025, registering a net

profit of SAR 3.97 billion, marking a

7% increase from SAR 3.71 billion in

the same period last year. Earnings

per share rose to SAR 1.94 from SAR

1.86, reflecting steady growth. Client

deposits surged 16.5% to SAR 210.69

billion, while total assets climbed

15.76% to SAR 280.48 billion. Investments

also expanded by 13.44% to

SAR 57.89 billion, underscoring the

bank’s strategic growth. In Q3 2025,

ANB posted net profits of SAR 1.32

billion, up 6.91% year-on-year, though

slightly down 0.52% from the preceding

quarter. Overall, the results highlight

ANB’s sustained financial resilience

and strong operational performance

in a dynamic market.

First Abu Dhabi Bank

Q3’25 Net Profit : AED 5.39B

First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) delivered

strong financial performance in

2025, reporting a Q3 net profit of AED

5.39 billion ($1.47 billion), up 20.8%

year-on-year, driven by robust client

activity, diversified revenue streams,

and growing contributions from trade

corridors. Operating income for the

quarter rose nearly 14% y-o-y to AED

9.34 billion from AED 8.20 billion, while

net interest income increased to AED

5 billion from AED 4.89 billion in Q3

2024. Net impairment charges stood

at AED 850 million. For the first nine

months, group net profit reached AED

16.02 billion, a 24% y-o-y rise, supported

by a 16% increase in revenue to AED

27.65 billion. Return on Tangible Equity

remained strong at 20%, with operating

income and net interest income showing

solid growth, reflecting FAB’s resilient

and diversified business model.


Bank Aljazira


Bank Aljazira recorded a strong financial

performance in the first nine months

of 2025, with net profits rising 20.24%

year-on-year to SAR 1.14 billion from

SAR 950.70 million. Earnings per share

increased to SAR 0.79 from SAR 0.66 over

the same period. Client deposits grew

11.54% to SAR 115.28 billion, while total

assets expanded 12.39% to SAR 163.42

billion, reflecting the bank’s solid growth

trajectory. Investments also increased by

5.15% to SAR 38.14 billion. In Q3 2025,

net profits reached SAR 400.10 million,

up 20.25% year-on-year and 4.71% quarter-on-quarter

from SAR 382.10 million in

Q2. The results highlight Bank Aljazira’s

consistent financial resilience, robust deposit

growth, and effective management

of assets and investments in a competitive

banking environment.

National Bank of Umm Al

Qaiwain

9M’25 Net Profit: AED

464.50M

National Bank of Umm Al Qaiwain

(NBQ) reported a 14% year-on-year

increase in net profits, reaching AED

464.50 million in the first nine months

of 2025, up from AED 399.92 million.

Basic and diluted earnings per share

(EPS) rose to AED 0.23 from AED

0.20. Operating income grew to AED

553.97 million, compared with AED

521.20 million in the same period last

year. Total assets surged 32% to AED

21.80 billion, while customer deposits

jumped 45% to AED 14.72 billion. In Q3

2025, net profits after tax reached AED

150.74 million, up from AED 114.55

million, with EPS rising to AED 0.08.

Operating income in Q3 increased to

AED 146.89 million. CEO Adnan Al

Awadhi noted the quarter reflected

NBQ’s steady performance and strong

fundamentals.

Alinma Bank


Alinma Bank reported net profits

of SAR 4.67 billion for the first nine

months (9M) of 2025, marking an 8.61%

increase from SAR 4.30 billion in 9M-24,

according to its latest financial results.

Earnings per share (EPS) rose to SAR

1.72 in 9M-25 from SAR 1.62 a year

earlier, reflecting steady shareholder

returns. Client deposits grew 12.18% to

SAR 234.62 billion, while total assets

climbed 15.06% to SAR 307.21 billion

as of 30 September 2025. Investments

expanded 11.10% to SAR 52.15 billion,

underscoring robust balance sheet

growth. In Q3-25, Alinma Bank achieved

a net profit of SAR 1.592 billion, up

1.30% year-on-year and 1.18% higher

than the previous quarter, demonstrating

consistent quarterly performance.

Ahlibank

9M’25 Net Profit: QR 676.2M

Ahlibank reported a nine-month net

profit of QR 676.2 million for 2025,

reflecting a 4.5% increase compared

with the same period last year, demonstrating

steady financial performance.

The bank’s results highlight its resilience

and commitment to sustainable

growth, supported by robust capital

ratios, prudent risk management,

and disciplined strategic execution.

In Q3, total assets rose to QR 62.6

billion, loans and advances increased

by 7.2%, and customer deposits grew

9.8%, signalling healthy operational

momentum. These results reinforce

Ahlibank’s ability to deliver consistent

returns amid a competitive and

dynamic market environment. Both

Fitch Ratings and Moody’s Investors

Service have affirmed the bank’s credit

ratings and stable outlook, recognising

its solid capital position, sound asset

quality, and disciplined approach to

financial and risk management.

Gulf Warehousing Company

9M’25 Net Profit: QR 82M

Gulf Warehousing Company (GWC)

reported total revenues of QR1,045mn

and a net profit of QR82mn for the

nine months ended September 30, with

earnings per share of QR0.14. Sheikh

Mohammad bin Hamad bin Jassim bin

Jaber al-Thani, GWC chairman, emphasised

the company’s commitment

to a forward-looking strategy that

strengthens its leadership in logistics

and supply chain solutions locally,

regionally, and globally. By completing

strategic projects, fostering innovation,

and delivering customer-focused

services, GWC enhances its resilience

and adaptability amid changing global

dynamics while managing emerging

risks. The company also supports

Qatar’s Third National Development

Strategy (2024–2030) to establish the

country as a global logistics hub.

Saudi Aramco

$28B Q3 2025 Profit in Gas

and AI Ventures

Saudi Aramco reported a net income

of USD 28bn for the third quarter of

2025, up slightly from USD 27.7bn in the

same period last year, underscoring its

solid operational efficiency, financial

strength, and steady execution of longterm

growth plans. Operating cash flow

rose to USD 36.1bn from USD 35.2bn in

Q3 2024, while free cash flow advanced

to USD 23.6bn from USD 22bn a year

earlier. The company’s gearing ratio

stood at 6.3 per cent as of September

30, 2025, down from 6.5 per cent at the

end of June. Aramco’s Board declared

a base dividend of USD 21.1bn and a

performance-linked dividend of USD

200m for the third quarter, both scheduled

for payment in the fourth quarter.

Aramco announced an upward revision

to its 2030 sales gas production capacity

target, now aiming for an increase of

around 80 per cent above 2021 levels,

compared to its earlier goal of more

than 60 per cent.


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Finance World Magazine | Edition: November 2025

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Finance World Magazine | Edition: November 2025

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