This week on Ag Talk, we're thrilled to introduce Marie Claire Maalouf, whose roles range from "Mommy" to "Creative Leader" and beyond. Yet, she resonates most with being called "A Student of Life." As the Chief Communications Officer (CCO) at Edelman, Marie Claire, affectionately known as MC among colleagues, has made a lasting impact on the creative landscape of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.In the years 2022 and 2023, her contributions led to the acquisition of over 100 awards, including prestigious accolades like the D&AD Yellow Pencil, one of the two Cannes Lions Grand Prix, and the sole Grand Lia in Health for the MENA region. Her portfolio is recognized by esteemed platforms such as The One Show, Cannes Lions, D&AD, and many more.Marie-Claire's influence goes beyond her professional endeavours; she has also served as a juror for prominent award shows like Cannes Lions, New York Festival, and D&AD. In an exclusive interview with Adgully Middle East, Marie Claire Maalouf, CCO of Edelman, explores her creative journey, her pivotal role at Edelman, and the unique opportunities and challenges encountered within the MEA creative sphere, where tradition intertwines with innovation to pave the way forward.Can you share with us your journey in the creative industry, particularly how you transitioned into your role as Chief Creative Officer at Edelman?Since day one, it has been a rollercoaster of embracing change, pushing boundaries, and constantly seeking out opportunities to make a real impact, to produce creative work that not only stands out but also stands for something. That’s why I see my transition from advertising to CCO at Edelman as a natural next step in my journey. It came from my broader understanding of the world of communication and a desire to leverage creativity beyond advertising, into realms where strategies intersect with public relations, digital innovation, and the ever-evolving media landscape. It doesn’t hurt when you truly believe in what Edelman does at the core: harnessing creativity to build trust—trust between brands and their audiences, between institutions and the public—trust that begets action, and action that begets trust, and so on and on...What unique challenges and opportunities do you encounter working in the creative field within the MEA region, considering its cultural diversity and rapidly evolving market?The cultural diversity here is not just a backdrop; it's the main act. It’s both the challenge and the opportunity. But if I had to pinpoint one specific challenge, it would be not falling into the trap of catering to everyone at the same time for the sake of inclusivity or out of fear of alienation. This is when we lose all the flavour and nuances and end up talking to no one. Once we overcome that challenge, opportunities present themselves. Just dive deep into the diversity, respect it, learn from it, and use it to create work where different cultures overlap, making work that bridges gaps, builds trust, and fosters connections. Once you’re at that level, you’re no longer just speaking to the MEA; you’re speaking for it, championing ideas that matter, that provoke thought, and, ultimately, drive change.How do you approach integrating traditional cultural elements into modern creative campaigns, especially in a region like the MEA where tradition holds significant importance?Tradition holds significant importance in the MEA region, but so does innovation. I’d say that one of the oldest traditions in the region is to keep moving forward. Tradition and modernity aren't mutually exclusive in creative work. I’d argue that the more understanding of the culture the work has, the more relevant and creative it can be. It is about striking a balance, diving deep into cultural stories, symbols, and values that resonate, then twisting them with contemporary insights or technologies to create something fresh yet familiar. The trick is not just to decorate with tradition but to embed it into the work, making it relevant to today’s audience.As a creative leader, you have contributed substantially in bringing the most coveted awards of the industry to the MENA region. In 2022/2023, you have helped win more than 100 awards. Could you highlight some of the most memorable campaigns you've worked on, and what made them successful in the context of the region?I’d start with the "Despair No More," which is rooted in the culture and the language. While we as a society were moving away from the stigmatization of menopause, the language was lacking, which hindered our progress as a society. So, we took it upon us to change the name of menopause in Arabic from the derogatory term “Age of Despair” to “Age of Renewal”.And then there is the work we’ve done for Annahar, the bold and brave Lebanese newspaper, which was contextual in its nature. Every single piece was a reaction from Annahar to a current relevant situation, a will to take a stand and challenge the status quo.In a constantly changing media landscape, what strategies do you employ to ensure your creative work remains innovative and relevant to your target audience?We simply listen. We listen to our audience and then we involve them in the work. We don’t talk at them; we work with them. A good example of that would be our GenZ lab that we have recently initiated in KSA for the region.What role do you believe storytelling plays in effective communication, particularly when it comes to connecting with audiences in the Middle East?Human beings are storytellers or seekers by nature. From the first cave drawings to the latest meme someone is posting at the moment you’re reading this, there is a story, a will to tell and share a story. But to truly connect with our audiences today, we have to learn when to be the storytellers and when to set the ground for people to tell their story or even ours. Today, brands do not have 100% control over their own story. Anyone with an internet connection can contribute to that story and even take it to a different place. This is where trust and action become important. If we act on the stories we’re telling, our audiences will trust it, act on it, and continue to tell it.You have been working for many social causes as well as helping women all around. What are your views about women's empowerment in the Middle Eastern region? What does the future look like?The region is steadily catching up with the rest of the world in that regard; we’re not where we want to be yet, but at least we’re moving. Even on a global level, we’re still far from an ideal situation. We’ve had our waves of 'first female X'... The future would be a place where we are no longer celebrating firsts, no longer having to prove our worth but are recognized for who we are and what we bring to the table. Empowerment today means action; what was enough five years ago is now the bare minimum. Now, there is progress and momentum is building up, and by looking at the younger generations, it seems we’re heading in the right direction; so now is the time to work harder. We can't just coast to where we want to be.

DHL has unveiled a revolutionary campaign in partnership with Horizon FCB Dubai, demonstrating the seemingly impossible feat of sending parcels back in time. This industry-first initiative showcases DHL's unparalleled speed, reliability, and innovative prowess.The campaign centers around a heartwarming story featuring a grandfather in Tokyo sending his granddaughter's birthday gift on January 26th, only for it to miraculously arrive in Los Angeles on January 25th – her actual birthday. Leveraging DHL's expertise and the International Date Line, the parcel transcends time, delivering joy and surprise in a way previously thought unimaginable.<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RmIKgRsgBdY?si=NlCtcazNgNjVkDKO" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>Mohamed Bareche, Executive Creative Director at Horizon FCB Dubai, emphasized the monumental effort behind the campaign, involving meticulous coordination across continents and the synchronization of production crews to ensure flawless execution.Colin Smith, Creative Director at Horizon FCB Dubai, highlighted how the narrative of a birthday gift underscores DHL's reliability and speed, showcasing its ability to positively impact daily life.Reham Mufleh, Managing Director at Horizon FCB Dubai, praised the campaign's demonstration of DHL's commitment to innovation, emphasizing the power of transcending time to deliver emotions.With the tagline "Delivered yesterday," DHL reinforces its position as a leader in innovation and customer service, showcasing how the impossible becomes possible with its expansive network and dedication to exceeding expectations.This campaign not only builds brand love but also leaves a lasting impression, reminding audiences that with DHL, yesterday's dreams can become today's reality.

9Yards Communications has emerged victorious as the integrated marcoms agency of choice for Shekh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC). Furthermore, this partnership marks a significant milestone in the reimagining and shaping of the brand, narrative, and vision of one of the UAE’s most respected medical institutions for serious and complex health care.As a result, 9Yards will now provide SSMC with a comprehensive suite of marcoms services, including strategic communications, creative and advertising, PR, digital marketing, and multi-media production.Expressing his delight at the SSMC-9Yards partnership, Hussam Almulhem, CEO of 9Yards Communications, said: "We are thrilled to be appointed as SSMC’s agency of choice and this win underscores the time, effort, and dedication of our talented team in delivering an exceptional response to the client’s brief. We now look forward to taking SSMC's already significant brand presence to the next level.”

Memac Ogilvy announced today that it has been selected by Majid Al Futtaim Shopping Malls, as its new strategic and creative agency of record in the GCC. As Majid Al Futtaim’s strategic partner, Memac Ogilvy will ideate and develop creative campaigns and content across all media and manage the retail giant’s social media engagements across malls in their respective markets, specifically UAE, Bahrain and Oman.The agency will be responsible for driving improved online engagement and conversion on social media, ensuring a wholistic approach to their creative campaigns across the portfolio of 24 outlets, including City Centre malls and the flagship luxury destination, Mall of the Emirates in Dubai. Memac Ogilvy was awarded the business after an extended and competitive pitch process.Hadi Ballout, Managing Director, Advertising – UAE, Memac Ogilvy, said: “Coming out of a long-standing business relationship, the Majid Al Futtaim team is looking forward to a fresh start with a new agency, as we further build brand equity through a seamless alignment of all marketing communication collateral.“During the pitch process, our client was particularly impressed with our strategic and creative approach to City Centre's new brand campaign, which aims to roll out later this year, as well as with the agency’s impressive social media and channel management credentials.” Ghassan Maraqa, CEO MENA, Memac Ogilvy, added: “Majid Al Futtaim is an iconic UAE brand, that in just under 30 years has become the leading shopping mall, communities, retail and leisure pioneer across the Middle East, Africa and Asia. “We are honored to partner with their shopping malls division, as they continue to innovate and expand, and look forward to an active relationship, where our dynamic and agile approach will create campaigns to drive revenue and overall business growth.”

YallaHub has partnered with Lapochka to use artificial intelligence in product development. The partnership leverages YallaHub's expertise in streamlining brand market entry. YallaHub's comprehensive QAAS platform offers Lapochka a full suite of services to support its potential expansion into the UAE market. These services include import management, warehousing, fulfillment, logistics solutions, payment gateway integration, customer service support, access to major marketplaces, marketing tools, and even last-mile delivery.Lapochka has recently launched a unique AI-generated lemonade, marking a groundbreaking achievement. It represents the first time a neural network has been used to develop a beverage flavor in the country. The AI, supervised by AI specialists, analyzed consumer preferences, sales data, and product reviews to craft a one-of-a-kind recipe that embodies Lapochka's commitment to natural ingredients. The eye-catching can design, featuring a "robot-apple" concept, was also created by a neural network called Midjourney."We are constantly seeking methods to surprise and delight our customers with unique and innovative products," said Lapochka CEO Anton Balyklov. "This AI-created beverage allows us to introduce consumers of all ages to the latest technologies in a fun and delicious way. Partnering with YallaHub empowers us to potentially expand our reach and share this exciting innovation with a wider audience in the MENA region."This partnership between YallaHub and Lapochka signifies a mutual commitment to pushing the boundaries within the beverage industry. With its focus on natural ingredients and refreshing taste, this AI-designed beverage perfectly fits the booming UAE beverage market, projected to reach $23.2 billion by 2025. By combining Lapochka's expertise in AI-powered product development with YallaHub's established presence in the MENA region, this collaboration can potentially revolutionize the consumer experience for beverage enthusiasts across the region. By the end of 2024, the brand plans to establish itself in major UAE marketplaces, delivery services, and the HORECA segment, targeting sales of around 100,000 cans per year."The UAE has a thriving beverage market, with consumers increasingly turning to online platforms for their purchases," said Leo Dovbenko, CEO of YallaHub. "This partnership with Lapochka highlights our commitment to transforming the MENA F&B industry by providing brands with the tools and resources they need to succeed."With per capita spending on food and beverages in the UAE projected to reach over $17,000 by 2025, this partnership is well-positioned to capitalize on the market's continued growth.

Today TikTok has announced the launch of the first-ever TikTok Ad Awards in the METAP region. The awards program is designed to celebrate the brands and agencies leading the way on TikTok with their creative and high-performing campaigns, as well as embracing the unique nature of TikTok and delivering exceptional advertising experiences.The Awards will showcase some of the most inspiring advertising campaigns that have brought authenticity, creativity and joy to the platform while achieving groundbreaking results. The initiative aims to acknowledge exceptional talent and innovation within the region.The TikTok Ad Awards is now open for submissions from brands and agencies based in the METAP region, encompassing Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Egypt, Turkey, South Africa and Pakistan. The program features six main categories that encompass various aspects of successful TikTok campaigns.  It’s the Creative for me: Focuses on the idea and its strategy, and celebrates the brands and agencies that dared to push the boundaries of creativity with campaigns that were built TikTok-first, and showcased impactful results.  Community Core: Celebrates the best use of Creators and the community. Shows how creators can use their unique voices and content styles seamlessly within your campaign idea.  Bougie on a Budget: This category is for campaigns with the most creative use of modest production budgets and resources through both paid and organic content with community management to create maximum impact.  Sound On Please!: Celebrates campaigns that use sound as an entry-point to their creative idea. There are so many different types of sound, different uses of sound, and likewise different creative approaches to sound on TikTok.  The Trendsetter: Reimagine advertising through TikTok, showcasing your innovation and ability to captivate audiences and drive bold effective ideas through the unique utilization of ad products with a measurable impact on the platform.  The People's Choice: Chosen through a voting by the guests of the ceremony. The highest accolade - The Greatest Of All Time (The G.O.A.T) - will be presented to the best overall campaign that excels in creativity, achieves its media objectives and demonstrates effectiveness. This award aims to recognize campaigns that really tapped into TikTok's community, creativity and trends to inspire joy and create cultural moments. All applications submitted under any of the six main categories will be automatically considered for the G.O.A.T.Brands and agencies can find all the program details and submit their entries at https://tiktok-ad-awards.evessiocloud.com/ . The deadline for entry submission is September 6, 2024, giving participants ample time to prepare and showcase their creativity, authenticity, and impact. The winners will be revealed in November."We are thrilled to launch the TikTok Ad Awards METAP to recognize and celebrate the outstanding creativity showcased by brands and agencies on our platform across the region," said Shadi Kandil, General Manager, Global Business Solutions, Middle East, Turkey, Africa, Central and South Asia - TikTok. "This awards program aims to highlight the campaigns that push boundaries, captivate audiences, and drive meaningful impact. We can't wait to see the exceptional submissions from the METAP markets."

Eastern Fortune Investments LLC (EFI), led by Harry Gill, announces the elevation of Prabhpreet Singh Gill, also known as Harry Gill, to the role of chairman of Pay10, marking a significant milestone in the organization's legacy of innovation and leadership in the fintech landscape.EFI, a next-generation hybrid family office and holding company, spearheads a diverse portfolio and fosters fintech growth across MENA and South Asia. Headquartered in Dubai at the Opus by Omniyat in Business Bay, EFI provides strategic guidance and invests in cutting-edge solutions, aligning with the UAE's 2024-2030 Economic and Digital Vision.Under Harry Gill's leadership, Pay10, initially an e-payment solution in India, has expanded globally from its Dubai headquarters in the Ubora Tower. Pay10 prioritizes local payment schemes and methods, aligning with each country's vision and agenda to support financial inclusion.Pay10, a flagship venture of EFI, champions an inclusive e-payment ecosystem, emphasizing financial inclusion and digital transformation for merchants and individuals. Gill's strategic leadership has positioned Pay10 as a frontrunner in reshaping the global financial services industry.Driven by innovation and customer-centricity, Gill's leadership has propelled Pay10 from a startup to a leading fintech powerhouse. His dedication to excellence has earned acclaim as he reshapes banking and financial services with transformative technologies.Harry Gill's vision for EFI extends beyond innovation; it encompasses progress and positive change in the financial landscape. EFI's fintech portfolio empowers individuals and businesses worldwide, reflecting Gill's commitment to shaping a more inclusive and sustainable future.Gill emphasizes EFI's dedication to fostering innovation, nurturing creativity, and driving meaningful impact in finance. As chairman of EFI and Pay10, he leads a team dedicated to building legacies of innovation, progress, and positive change.

The Sharjah Ramadan Festival 2024, which concluded its 34th edition last night, Saturday, has been hailed a major success in revitalizing the retail sector and commercial activity across the emirate's markets.The 37-day extravaganza delivered unparalleled shopping experiences to Sharjah’s residents and visitors, encompassing a wide range of malls, commercial centers, and entertainment destinations across various cities and regions in the emirate.The festival's alluring offers, promotions, and substantial discounts were complemented by a series of entertainment programmes and activities, spreading festive cheer and fun-filled ambience throughout the holy month of Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr.Organised by the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), this year’s festival exceeded sales volume expectations, generating approximately AED 400 million and achieving a growth rate of 25 percent.The Sharjah Ramadan Festival 2024 successfully drew visitors and families from within and outside the emirate, offering them massive discounts, that go up to 75 percent off, across a wide variety of products and merchandise presented by exhibitors, including both local and international brands.The festival witnessed during Eid Al Fitr a strong momentum and a huge influx of visitors, who flocked to the major shopping centers and various participating destinations and were lured by the diverse entertainment programmes and festive shopping experiences.Attendees eagerly engaged in raffle draws held throughout the festival’s pavilions, where they won valuable prizes and shopping vouchers, worth up to AED 1 million, presented by the Sharjah Chamber in collaboration with the participating shopping centers.Furthermore, an extensive range of lucrative offers was showcased within the festival, encompassing destinations, hotels, and distinguished tourist attractions.HE Mohammad Ahmed Amin Al-Awadi, director-general of SCCI, emphasised the Chamber's commitment to helping the Sharjah Ramadan Festival achieve tremendous success. This success has further cemented the festival’s leading position as one of the foremost commercial and entertainment events in the region.He underscored the SCCI’s sponsorship of shopping promotions as part of its strategy to stimulate and diversify the emirate's economy, promote innovative branding practices, and bolster support for local businesses and entrepreneurs.For his part, Abdul Aziz Al Shamsi, Assistant Director-General for Communication and Business Sector at SCCI, noted that the robust visitor turnout and the satisfaction expressed by participating centers and retail outlets across the emirate indicate the tangible outcomes manifested in the record-breaking sales achieved by the festival. This achievement serves as a catalyst for the chamber’s intensified efforts to uphold the event's stature and enrich its capacity and allure to attract Sharjah’s visitors and residents.Meanwhile, Ibrahim Rashid Al-Jarwan, director of economic relations and marketing at SCCI, and general coordinator of the festival, attributed the festival’s tremendous success to the collaborative efforts and partnerships with strategic partners, major sponsors, governmental entities, and the private sector.Crediting the efforts and contributions of participating businesses, local and international brands, as well as local productive families, in achieving fruitful outcomes, Al-Jarwan asserted that such coordination efforts allowed shopping centers and markets to offer diverse and rich entertainment programs, including traditional heritage-inspired activities catering to various segments of visitors across diverse cities and regions of the emirate.The Sharjah Ramadan Festival 2024, which ran from March 8th to April 13th, successfully drew a massive crowd from the emirate’s residents and visitors, who enjoyed the event’s engaging activities and its captivating surprises, including purchase vouchers and special offers in the world of shopping.The festival committee and shopping centers allocated purchase vouchers totaling approximately one million dirhams, distributed in two installments.The first installment, distributed during Ramadan, included a variety of prizes and purchase vouchers for the public and shoppers, amounting to around AED 350,000, sponsored by the Sharjah Chamber in collaboration with Sharjah Broadcasting Authority, whereas the second installment, distributed during the Eid al-Fitr, amounted to AED 650,000.Under the festival umbrella, enticing offers attracted shoppers and facilitated the procurement of Ramadan and Eid essentials at competitive prices.Notably, the 'Ramadan Nights' exhibition at Expo Centre Sharjah, a cornerstone event of the Sharjah Ramadan Festival, attracted a substantial audience of shoppers.Similarly, the “Souq Al Freej" market, an integral component of the festival, showcased a diverse array of promotional offers on local products and brands, featuring the entrepreneurial endeavors of local producers alongside retail establishments, complemented by an array of entertainment and heritage activities.

Momentus Digital, India’s leading Unified Media Advertising Partner, expands its global management with the addition of Sandeep Sabharwal as VP for Global Expansion based in Dubai, UAE. Momentus Digital is a Unified Media Advertising Partner designed to provide a full extent of audiences through Native, Programmatic, Search, Display, and Gaming audience channels. The newly launched Programmatic DSP, Velocity+, empowers advertisers by offering the ability to target premium and brand-safe inventory. They specialize in a vertical where advertisers work with them on Brand Engagement or Performance Marketing. Their brand engagement strategy focuses on delivering the right audience through the right channel at the right time. In his new role as Vice President of Global Expansion at Momentus Digital, Sandeep is at the forefront of driving strategic initiatives to propel the company's global growth trajectory. Leveraging his wealth of experience, he assumes a pivotal role in expanding the company's reach across diverse markets, positioning it for unparalleled success. Sandeep is a dynamic professional with three decades of experience. In the last 18 years, he has worked in the digital media industry with organizations such as SVG Media, GroupM, Quasar Media, and others. Prior to joining Momentus Digital, Sandeep was a part of Httpool digital, where he served as Regional Partner Director and was spearheading the business relationship for platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Snapchat in India and select SEA markets. His expertise encompasses strategic business development, partnership management, team building and global expansion initiatives. "I am thrilled to join Momentus Digital, their innovative approach to digital media, coupled with their commitment to driving global growth, aligns perfectly with my professional aspirations. I am excited to collaborate with this talented team to expand our reach across diverse markets, driving meaningful impact and shaping the future of the digital landscape. Together, we will unlock new opportunities and achieve unprecedented success. I am truly grateful for this opportunity and look forward to making a lasting impact,” said Sandeep Sabharwal. As Sandeep joins as VP, Global expansion, we look forward to building strong relationships with our clients and helping them achieve success in this dynamic and exciting market, Ms. Arooshi Dharamdasani CEO of Momentus Digital. With an unwavering track record of success and an innate passion for driving innovation in the digital landscape, Sandeep continues to be at the forefront of shaping the future of digital marketing and advertising, making indelible contributions to the industry.

Following a thrilling final match of the Diriyah Saudi Super Cup 2024 in Abu Dhabi on Thursday night, Al-Hilal FC was named the champions of the tournament, beating the opposing team Al-Ittihad FC by 4-1 at Mohammad Bin Zayed Stadium.The two-day competition received over 60,000 spectators in total. The success of the Diriyah Saudi Super Cup sees Abu Dhabi emerge once again as a leading tourist destination, positioning itself as a hub for major local and international sporting and entertainment events.The hosting bid of the Diriyah Saudi Super Cup was led by Experience Abu Dhabi, the destination brand for the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi). This was the first time the tournament had been hosted in the region, outside of Saudi Arabia.H.E. Mohammed Abdullah Hazam Al Dhaheri, Secretary-General of UAE Football Association, stated that this season the Diriyah Saudi Super Cup has added to Abu Dhabi’s proven track record of success in organizing major sporting events. “The tournament was very well received by the public and media,” he said.Al Dhaheri added: “We congratulate Al-Hilal on their win and would like to thank everyone who contributed to perfecting the details of this event. We also applaud the DCT Abu Dhabi’s significant role in making the Diriyah Saudi Super Cup one to remember.”In addition, Al Hilal’s captain Salem Al Dawsari commented: "Of course, the whole team is very happy with the result in the final and to be able to take the cup back to Saudi Arabia, so that even more of the fans there can see it and enjoy that victory. To play the final in Abu Dhabi was a great privilege at a fantastic venue, and we thank all the travelling fans for joining us on that journey.”The tournament featured football legends Cristiano Rolando and Karim Benzema, alongside regional talent Salem Al Dawsari and Abderrazak Hamdallah.The Diriyah Saudi Super cup was the latest international sports and entertainment tournament added to Abu Dhabi’s jam-packed calendar, complimenting annual events from the NBA Abu Dhabi Games powered by ADQ to the F1® Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Veolia, the benchmark company for ecological transformation, has released a special podcast series titled Women for Climate, highlighting the contribution of three incredible women at the forefront of climate action.The three-part podcast series aims to raise awareness on this year’s theme of International Women’s Day, Investing in Women, at a time when gender equality remains one of the greatest challenges in modern societies. It aims to spur meaningful action in support of those at the frontline of battling the crippling effects of climate change as well as the pioneers of gender equality around the world.Featuring Dr. Nawal Al Hosany, the UAE’s Permanent Representative at the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), Amani Al Moajil, CEO at ENOVA Saudi Arabia, and Rana Hajirasouli, CEO and founder of The Surpluss, the Women for Climate podcast also aligned with Veolia’s annual Yes WEDO Week, which marks International Women’s Day on March 8 every year. All the episodes were hosted by Nadine Zidani, sustainability and climate activist and founder of Mena Impact.Commenting on the podcast, Zineb Chaoudri, Director of Communications, Veolia Near & Middle East, said: “As the benchmark company for ecological transformation, Veolia is a pioneer in translating gender equity and diversity policies into successful on-ground initiatives spanning fields which is significant for a company with a high proportion of traditionally male technical professions, to help secure an inclusive and sustainable future for all. The Women for Climate podcast is our tribute to female empowerment around the world and our humble effort to improve the representation of women in climate decisions and environmental initiatives.”The podcast series features three separate interviews with three public figures from different backgrounds with different stories and divergent vision, but all united as passionate advocates of gender equality, especially in the climate and environment sector.The full recording of all three episodes of the podcast is now available on YouTube at Veolia Near & Middle East channel.

Diriyah Company will introduce its new visionary and lifestyle destination – Diriyah Square – to global industry leaders participating at the World Retail Congress in Paris from 16-18 April. Located on the outskirts of the Saudi capital, Riyadh, the new retail hub will host over 400 new retail outlets and more than 100 restaurants and cafes at the heart of the historic Diriyah development area incorporating 300-year-old traditional architectural concepts and design.Diriyah Square will mark a new milestone in the evolution of retail and become an international focal point that connects the world’s finest retail brands with local artisan goods. It aims to fuse culture, leisure, and entertainment to bring communities closer together by creating shared moments of relaxation and enjoyment.The unveiling of what Diriyah Square has to offer the global retail industry will provide potential partners with an insight into The City of Earth’s dynamic approach to retail. From world-class dining experiences to luxury fashion boutiques, Diriyah Square will welcome visitors with its array of amenities and attractions just a few kilometers from the vibrant capital city of Riyadh.As part of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, Diriyah Square is poised to become a hub of commerce, culture, and entertainment. The project's emphasis on sustainability, community engagement, and cultural preservation underscores its commitment to creating a truly immersive and inclusive retail environment. Group CEO of Diriyah Company, Jerry Inzerillo said: "Diriyah Square is more than just a shopping destination—it is a symbol of Saudi Arabia's commitment to driving economic growth and fostering creativity and innovation.That is why we are so excited to invite investors and stakeholders from around the world to join us in this exciting journey, and to be a part of shaping the future of retail. With its pedestrian-centric design, direct access to Wadi Hanifah, and close vicinity to the breathtaking At-Turaif UNESCO World Heritage Site, the district will be a world-leading lifestyle destination.”Diriyah Company is a dynamic mixed-use developer redefining urban planning to transform Diriyah, “The City of Earth”, into a thriving capital of culture, entertainment, education, and the arts. Diriyah links the Kingdom’s past, present and future introducing visitors to the charm and generosity of Najdi culture as well as the symbol of inspiration for generations of creatives, innovators, entrepreneurs, and educators to come.

Calleo, a Market Intelligence and full-service Marketing Agency, which is retained to provide marketing support to Stanchion, is proud to announce that it has been engaged by Stanchion to be involved in creating a new modern identity, brand and website.Stanchion, founded in Cape Town 23 years ago, has developed into a global business with offices on five continents.  Stanchion sought a new brand identity and logo to reflect not only its shift in focus to be a product-led company that is pioneering payment fabric technology, but to build on its trusted role of powering payments change, bridging the gap between traditional finance infrastructure and modern fintech for clients and also to reflect the dynamic change in the payment’s world in recent years.Calleo provides a range of marketing support and market intelligence services to Stanchion. “It is not every day that the team gets to work end to end on a full project of this scale, which transforms the identity, logo and website. It has been a highly exciting project for our team to be involved in,” says Andrew Dean, Managing Director at Calleo. Modern, Innovative, Leading-edgeThe bold new logo in blue, orange and white encapsulates the rapid evolution in the payment’s world, including payment methods and the way customers interact with their cards and wallets. “While our previous branding paid tribute to chip-based payment cards, our new logo reflects our modern PayTech role as an enabler of digital innovation and customer experiences, adding value to financial institutions that operate within the confines of legacy systems,” says Stanchion CEO, Steven Kirrage. “Our leading-edge products extend the life of existing investments such as Card Issuing platforms, Card Management Systems (CMS) and Processing/Switching platforms.” Wisdom, energy and precision Stanchion prides itself on delivering excellent service to its clients, underscored by decades of skill, experience and knowledge in the PayTech space as it has grown and evolved, guiding customers through digital transformation. A deep blue – to represent Stanchion’s rich depth of expertise, wisdom and stability – has been added to the company’s traditional vibrant orange and white, which depict the energy, optimism, precision and clarity long associated with the brand. “The Stanchion team believes this modern look better reflects today’s world and our place in it. The subtle placement of nodes within the logo links to our commitment to delivering agile innovation to our clients and underscoring the ongoing and efficient management of our products and services,” says Kirrage. 

Sandsoft, the mobile-first game developer, publisher, and investor powered by world-leading games industry talent, has today announced the full-time appointments of Norah AlQuaydhib and Reham Yeshar, who join following their success in Sandsoft’s Press Start internship program. Aligned with Vision 2030, and delivered in partnership with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology of Saudi Arabia, Press Start provides the opportunity for a diverse mix of entry-level game developers to design a mobile game from the ground up while receiving support from Sandsoft’s team of games industry experts. Norah and Reham’s excellence in the program led to the offer of two full-time game development roles within the Riyadh Studio to create innovative, accessible core social games for players across the world.  Yahsir Qureshi, VP Head of Studio, Sandsoft, commented: “The entire Sandsoft team was incredibly impressed with the fresh perspectives provided by Norah and Reham. As the games industry in the Middle East continues to expand, it’s hugely important to give up-and-coming talent from a range of backgrounds the opportunity to grow professionally. At Sandsoft, we're committed to building a diverse team with 29% of our workforce being female, above the industry average. Whilst there's still more to do in this area, we're proud to nurture local and diverse talent, and I look forward to seeing Norah and Reham's continued growth.” Norah AlQuaydhib, Junior Game programmer, Sandsoft, added:  “I’ve loved working at Sandsoft for the past six months. Sharing an office with experienced gaming leaders has provided a great learning experience, and I can’t wait to discover even more.”Reham Yeshar, Junior Game Artist, Sandsoft, commented: “The Press Start program provided a great opportunity to work with like-minded developers eager to grow in their careers. It’s an incredibly exciting time for Sandsoft, and I’m excited to be involved. ” In March 2024, Sandsoft announced a Joint Venture with NetEase Games to publish games within the MENA region. To learn more about careers at Sandsoft

WE Communications, a leading independent global communications agency, today announced new regional leadership appointments that showcase the agency’s continued commitment to driving overall growth across the EMEA region, which had double-digit growth last year. Daniel Blank has been elevated to head of integrated marketing, EMEA, and Jasmin Athwal to head of growth and business development, EMEA.“WE’s EMEA region has experienced strong performance over the past few years, and our business is ready for additional cross-regional leadership that will continue our positive trajectory,” said Kass Sells, WE’s CEO of international. “Daniel and Jasmin have proven track records of driving results and will be an unstoppable pair when it comes to leading WE into this next chapter.”Under his new remit, Blank will be responsible for driving the agency’s creative and digital work across all EMEA markets. He will manage a team of more than 35 specialists spanning client capabilities that include insights and analytics, creative concepting, design, social media, paid media and content production. Prior to this, Blank served as deputy managing director of WE’s Germany office for six years. Throughout his career of more than 25 years, he has partnered with many multinational brands across the technology, healthcare, consumer products and sustainability sectors.“Clients today rightfully expect seamlessly integrated campaigns and 360-degree digital servicing from their agency partners,” said Sells. “By bringing together a cross-regional team, WE will further increase its creative diversity, quality and scalability for the brands with which we partner.”Athwal is charged with leading new business and marketing, including the development and implementation of a growth strategy across WE’s German, U.K. and South African operations that fuels cross-regional collaboration and integration. She will collaborate closely with local market leadership to drive client acquisition across WE’s key sectors of health, technology and consumer. Athwal most recently was senior director, technology at WE, where she provided counsel to B2B executive leaders on strategic communications and media relations, supporting the growth of WE’s largest clients in the EMEA region.WE’s EMEA Region experienced more than 14% growth in the last calendar year and represents clients that include Forest Stewardship Council, Honeywell and Microsoft.Athwal is based in London, and Blank is based in Munich. Both will continue to report to Sells.

In a landmark announcement recently made at Google Cloud Next, WPP and Google Cloud unveiled a transformative collaboration set to redefine the landscape of marketing. This groundbreaking partnership integrates Google’s cutting-edge Gemini models with WPP Open, WPP’s AI-powered marketing operating system utilized by over 35,000 professionals and esteemed clients such as The Coca-Cola Company, L’Oréal, and Nestlé.Combining Google's unparalleled expertise in data analytics, generative AI technology, and cybersecurity with WPP's comprehensive marketing capabilities and global creative prowess, this alliance aims to usher in a new era of marketing efficiency and effectiveness.Central to this collaboration is the utilization of Google Cloud's advanced gen AI tools alongside WPP's proprietary marketing and advertising data. This integration empowers WPP’s clients to craft brand- and product-specific content utilizing gen AI, gain profound insights into target audiences, accurately forecast content effectiveness, and optimize campaigns through ongoing adaptive processes.Drawing from WPP’s extensive experience in serving enterprise clients, WPP Open seamlessly integrates with any client, partner, or technology vendor to deliver optimized and automated marketing capabilities.The inaugural phase of this dynamic partnership focuses on developing four innovative use cases:• Enhanced Creativity with WPP Open Creative Studio: Integrating Google's Gemini 1.5 Pro technology into Creative Studio enables the development of richer and more dynamic user interfaces. By leveraging a brand's content and guidelines, including color palette, fonts, voice, and past campaigns, this integration facilitates the creation of highly creative and on-brand content.• Smarter Content Optimization: Upgrades to WPP's AI Performance Brain™, powered by Gemini 1.5 Pro, enhance the system's ability to predict content performance even before campaign activation. This advancement delivers faster and more accurate predictions, offering superior recommendations to improve content and potentially freeing up substantial resources for reinvestment.• AI Narration: Pioneering real-time streaming capabilities for video description and narration, WPP utilizes Gemini 1.5 Pro to automate customizable video narration scripts, enhancing video creation efficiency and personalization.• Hyper-Realistic Product Representation: Leveraging gen AI, WPP revolutionizes product representation by creating detailed 3D product images that adhere to brand guidelines and incorporate product design elements, ideal for marketing and advertising.Stephan Pretorius, Chief Technology Officer at WPP, said: "This collaboration marks a pivotal moment in marketing innovation. Our integration of Gemini 1.5 Pro into WPP Open has significantly accelerated our gen AI innovation and enables us to do things we could only dream of a few months ago. With Gemini models, we're not only able to enhance traditional marketing tasks but also to integrate the end-to-end marketing process for continuous, adaptive optimisation. I believe this will be a game-changer for our clients and the marketing industry at large.”Thomas Kurian, CEO of Google Cloud, said: “AI has the potential to unlock new levels of effectiveness for marketers, whether it is optimising campaigns, automating repetitive tasks like brand descriptions, or sparking entirely new ideas. This partnership brings the power of Google Cloud’s gen AI capabilities together with WPP’s marketing domain expertise to help our mutual customers create better campaigns that resonate with consumers in a deeper way.”The move forms part of WPP’s ongoing annual investment of £250 million in AI, data and technology, and its strategy to capitalise on its lead in the space by partnering with AI experts like Google.

Kartik Chandrasekhar, a seasoned industry leader, has transitioned to a new role as Chief Commercial Officer - Asia, ANZ, Middle East, and Africa at Kellanova, a US-headquartered multinational corporation formerly known as the Kellogg Company.Chandrasekhar, known for his distinguished tenure at Unilever, where he held various pivotal positions over the span of more than two decades, has decided to take on this new challenge after departing from Unilever earlier this year. His departure marked the end of a remarkable journey with the company, where he ascended from a management trainee to head critical divisions such as oral care and skin cleansing for D&E markets, and served as a global brand lead for Pepsodent.Reflecting on his time at Unilever, Chandrasekhar had expressed profound gratitude while leaving his earlier organization, stating: "Unilever welcomed me as a trainee and gave me the opportunity to become the marketer and business leader I am today." He went on to highlight the honor he felt in leading globally renowned brands under Unilever's umbrella, including Ponds, Pepsodent, Signal, Knorr, Pears, and Lifebuoy.Chandrasekhar's extensive experience and strategic acumen are expected to bring a fresh perspective to Kellanova's operations across the vast territories of Asia, ANZ, Middle East, and Africa. With a track record of steering iconic brands to success, his appointment signals Kellanova's commitment to driving growth and innovation in key markets.Outside the boardroom, Chandrasekhar is known for his active lifestyle and passion for activities such as swimming, running, and reading. He resides in Singapore with his wife and two children.

In this interview with Adgully Middle East, Talal Thabet, CEO Haltia.AI, paints a picture of how Haltia.AI and similar technologies will transform the way we interact with technology, offering personalized experiences that enhance productivity, well-being, and human connection. This interview provides a deep dive into this AI startup’s vision, technology, and impact on the future of AI interaction, offering valuable insights into the evolving landscape of personal AI experiences.How is Haltia.AI redefining personal AI experiences in the UAE, considering the unique cultural landscape and user needs?Haltia.AI recognizes the importance of cultural sensitivity in crafting a personal AI experience. Moreover, Haltia.AI champions member empowerment and respects the spirit of self-sovereignty, in alignment with the cypherpunk principles of our co-founder and CTO, Arto Bendiken. Here's how we address this in the UAE:On-device processing: Member data stays entirely on their devices, maximizing control and privacy. I see privacy as equal to dignity. This aligns well with the cultural emphasis of the region.Multilingual capabilities: Catering to the region's diverse languages, Haltia.AI will incorporate advanced language processing for seamless interaction in Arabic and other prominent languages.Culturally-aware knowledge base development: We're building an AI with a knowledge base that acknowledges local customs, etiquette, and sensitivities relevant to the UAE and regional context.Member-controlled persona development: The AI personalizes the companion's interaction style based on the member’s usage which offers more formal or respectful speech patterns to align with cultural preferences.Can you elaborate on how Haltia.AI goes beyond basic automation and truly personalizes the user experience with adaptive intelligence?Firstly, at Haltia.AI we do not have “users”. We have “members”. “Users” are for social media and drug dealers. When a service is free, a user and their data become the product. To answer your question, Haltia.AI's core strength lies in its Adaptive Personal AI technology. Here's how it personalizes the experience:Learning from member interactions: The AI continuously learns from member behaviour, preferences, and communication patterns.Predictive capabilities: Based on learned patterns, Haltia.AI anticipates member needs and proactively suggests actions or information.Contextual awareness: The AI understands the context of member queries and tailors responses accordingly, providing more relevant and helpful information.Evolving knowledge base: As members interact with the AI, the knowledge base personalizes itself to their specific interests and needs.With the constant evolution of AI, how is Haltia.AI ensuring its technology stays adaptable and relevant in the long run?We are committed to continuous innovation at Haltia.AI:Dedicated R&D team: Our team actively researches advancements in AI, focusing on areas like real-time knowledge capture and large language model optimization for mobile devices. A team that has already published several prominent papers and will continue to do so.Open architecture: Our technology is designed to be adaptable and integrate with future AI developments, and consequently, can be customized for both the public and the private sectors too.Collaboration with developers: We offer developer kits, fostering a community that builds upon our core technology, accelerating innovation.As AI becomes more integrated into daily life, how is Haltia.AI addressing potential ethical concerns around user privacy and bias? Should AI be regulated? What are your thoughts especially in the backdrop of the recent AI law passed by the EU?At Haltia.AI, ethical considerations and user privacy are paramount. We are one of the few startups that has a dedicated Ethicist on our payroll who directs our compass towards the ethical values that are essential to us as a brand. In addition, we have nine cypherpunks on our advisory board that are all privacy advocates who are happy to ring the alarm should they find that we have not lived up to our brand promise of unbreachable privacy. This direction and keen desire to maintain privacy is because we believe in empowering members with complete control over their data. That's why our core innovation lies in on-device processing.Data never leaves the device: Unlike traditional AI assistants, Haltia.AI processes all information entirely on your smartphone or device. This eliminates the risk of data breaches entirely, as your data never travels to the cloud.Focus on member control: Members have complete autonomy over what information they share with the AI and how it's used.Bias detection and mitigation: We actively address potential biases in our AI by employing diverse datasets and rigorous testing methodologies. We're fortunate to have a senior AI ethicist on our team, leading these efforts and ensuring responsible development.Industry standards and best practices: While we may not advocate for heavy-handed regulation, we believe in responsible AI development and support industry standards that promote user privacy and mitigate bias. The EU's AI Act highlights some valuable considerations in this regard.By prioritizing on-device processing, member control, and leading with an AI ethics expert, Haltia.AI offers a future of AI interaction built on trust and transparency.Does Haltia.AI have ambitions to expand its reach beyond the UAE and cater to a global audience? If so, how will it adapt to diverse cultural contexts?Global presence is an obvious part of our vision. Here's how we'll adapt:Multilingual support: We'll offer extensive language processing capabilities to serve users globally from launch.Culturally-aware knowledge base development: We'll work with local partners and experts to tailor the knowledge base to specific regional contexts.Customizable member interfaces: The UI will be adaptable to accommodate different cultural preferences for design and interaction.Working with the enterprise sector clients that have a similar geographic canvas to roll out the service across their footprint.How will Haltia.AI and similar technologies transform the way we interact with technology in the coming years?Personal AI companions like Haltia.AI will change human behaviour and create a new era of human-tech interaction:More intuitive and natural interaction: We'll move away from keyword searches and towards a more conversational way of interacting with technology.Increased efficiency and productivity: AI will anticipate needs and handle routine tasks, freeing up human time for more creative endeavours.Personalized experiences: Technology will adapt to individual members, providing a more seamless and enriching experience, whether at work or in a member’s private life.Haltia.AI and similar companions, not just assistants, will evolve into the companions that provide assistance, guidance, advice, coaching, promotion, motivation, and dare I say, allow the members to feel supported, loved, and cared for. Human behavior will undergo a transformation, with stress levels decreasing, and instances of overwork and burnout diminishing. Consequently, society will witness greater unity and tolerance among individuals, as Haltia.AI democratizes intelligence just as the internet democratized information.

EaseMyTrip.ae is offering deals on flights and hotels for last-minute travelers during the EID holidays.  EaseMyTrip offers savings of up to AED 600 on combined flight and hotel bookings, allowing travelers to get a steal deal this Eid without overspending. In addition, travelers can enjoy savings of up to AED 500 on one-way and round-trip flight tickets to popular destinations like India, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and other international destinations.  Additionally, EaseMyTrip has a perfect staycation offer on hotels in and around UAE, with a 10% discount with a maximum savings of AED 100. All these amazing offers will be valid from April 5th to April 14th, 2024 providing a limited window to secure these fantastic deals. Rikant Pittie, Co-Founder, EaseMyTrip.ae, said: “The UAE is gearing up for peak travel with over 3.6 million guests expected to pass through Dubai alone this fortnight. As International travel destinations grow in popularity, EaseMyTrip.ae has got all the last-minute travelers covered with compelling deals on our website. Owing to common travel patterns, where last-minute bookings are becoming increasingly popular, we encourage travellers to celebrate Eid at their desired destination without worrying about exceeding their budget. We are committed to creating an unforgettable experience at an exceptional value for our customers.”

Carrefour, which Majid Al Futtaim owns the exclusive rights to operate in the Kingdom of Bahrain, has introduced this year’s Eid campaign, “Sweeten your Eid with great deals.” Between April 3 and 16, the brand will be offering discounts of up to 68 per cent, making Eid Al Fitr more affordable for customers by providing them with diverse offers available in-store and on the Carrefour app.The two-week-long mega sale will witness promotions across a variety of categories ranging from locally sourced fruits and vegetables, festive desserts, dates, and nuts, to toys, kitchenware, and appliances.Laurent Hausknecht, Regional Director of Gulf at Majid Al Futtaim Retail, commented: “Eid is a joyous occasion for communities across the Kingdom of Bahrain, and at Majid Al Futtaim, we are dedicated to making it even more special for our customers. Carrefour is proud to offer unbeatable value on a range of products, ensuring our customers can enjoy their favourite items at affordable prices. From exclusive discounts to special promotions, we are committed to providing added convenience and accessibility, making every shopping experience during Eid a memorable one. At Majid Al Futtaim, we believe in creating great moments for everyone, everyday, and our Eid offers at Carrefour are a testament to that commitment.”Customers can also win 10 BD gift vouchers through an in-store competition and 30 BD MyCLUB points via an Instagram competition. On the Carrefour app, customers will be provided with a special promo code for discounts on their purchases. Additionally, there will be weekly discounts of 10 per cent on various categories for MyCLUB members, along with instant discounts on leaflet items.

VideoMost Research, an R&D division of Dubai-based VideoMost company, group video communications software developer, has received the US patent for its innovative video compression technology based on the sketch concept, neural networks and machine learning.According to Cisco market analytics over 80% of all global internet traffic is attributed to video. More than 90% of the content volume shared by users on social networks is video, 87% of marketers use video in their ad campaigns, and 95% of video messages are retained by the viewers. Global video traffic is constantly growing and video occupies a major share of content in all kinds of data transmission and storage systems.Video compression software (video codecs) is widely used globally for video streaming, conferencing, messaging, social networking, video surveillance, digital television, file storage, online advertising and other applications. Where it concerns standard algorithms for compressing and decompressing (codec) video, the compression happens on the content provider’s side (e.g. YouTube servers), while end-users’ machines handle the decompressing. The primary criteria for codec efficiency are the compression factor (rate), video quality, and required computing power (processor cycles). Hundreds of scientific, government and commercial organizations around the world have been improving these parameters for decades, including Google, Apple, Microsoft, Meta, Amazon, Adobe, Cisco and other manufacturers of communication software and equipment, as well as telecom operators in Europe, the United States, China, Japan, South Korea and other countries.Video codecs became so hot that Hollywood shot a popular television series “Silicon Valley” with detailed story of a CA-based video codec startup Pied Piper that chronicles its struggles while facing competition from larger entities, including patent wars. It premiered on HBO in 2014 and concluded in 2019, running for a total of 53 episodes. The series was nominated for numerous accolades, including 5 consecutive Primetime Emmy Award nominations.There are dozens of big players on the global video codecs market with different products. Most of these codecs, including all the ITU-T standards, are protected by hundreds of patents, combined in several patent pulls.During the last 50 years, video compression factor (rate) has increased by only about 40% each ten years. This is too slow and market calls for a new video compression technology with dramatically higher efficiency factor. It is a global challenge, and new technology is required to save costs on building expensive networks and telecom infrastructure, including optical cables, cell towers, frequency spectrum, servers and storage.VideoMost Research shifts the Claude Shannon Rate-distortion theory paradigm and offers fundamentally new concept of video coding based on sketch-video forming, neural networks and machine learning (ML). The new patented method increases video compression factor by about 3 times, not 40%, against the existing modern standards like H.265, VP9 and AV1, with the same video quality.The VideoMost ML codec transforms incoming original video stream in the encoder into a sketch-video that consumes significantly less resources, and when decoded it restores video using a trained neural network. This “sketch focused” and ML-based innovative approach to encoding and decoding video data has been patented by VideoMost Research in the USA and other countries.VideoMost ML Codec delivers significant reduction of video bitrate and storage costs and enables effective high quality video streaming via narrowband mobile communication channels. VideoMost claims that its video compression tech is robust to sudden disruptions in connectivity. When bandwidth is suddenly restricted, the video wouldn’t freeze. VideoMost also said its approach is hardware-agnostic. ML-powered video codec enables more efficient streaming. Even minor improvements in video compression could save on bandwidth costs and deliver higher resolutions and framerates of content being streamed.There are lots of applications to use the technology in B2B and B2C markets, including video portals, compact video storage, video conferencing, p2p and group calling apps, streaming platforms, game playing and cyber sport, movies and TV shows, news and clips, hosting data storage, and more.VideoMost is looking for strategic and tech-savvy financial partners and venture capital to help further fund the ML codec development, improvement and distribution.Given the high listener engagement with podcasts, how can advertisers leverage this not just to generate brand awareness but also drive targeted conversions and sales?What is the importance of creating native advertising experiences for podcast listeners? How can companies ensure their podcast ads are authentic and integrate seamlessly into the podcast's content and tone?With traditional metrics like downloads potentially misleading, what innovative measurement strategies are emerging to accurately gauge the true impact of podcast advertising campaigns? How can advertisers move beyond download numbers to measure the true effectiveness of podcast ads?Podcast listeners are diverse. How can advertisers strategically choose podcasts to reach their ideal customer base and maximize their return on investment (ROI)? What is the importance of audience targeting in podcast advertising for maximizing ROI?How have startups like Blue Apron and Casper utilized podcast advertising to become household names?What are the projected trends for podcast advertising revenue according to recent studies, and what factors contribute to its growth?  What advantages does podcast advertising offer over traditional forms of marketing, particularly in terms of audience engagement and trust?  Can you outline the steps for businesses interested in getting started with podcast advertising, including considerations for ad creation, placement, and tracking results?

Alinma Bank, renowned for its commitment to the national economy, and Mindshare MENA, a leading marketing agency, have orchestrated a remarkable surge in social media followers while drastically reducing costs.Alinma Bank, established in 2006 by royal decree, has consistently championed the economic landscape of the region, empowering individuals and businesses alike to achieve their financial goals.Teaming up with the innovative minds at Aleph and Wise.blue, Alinma Bank achieved a monumental feat, slashing its average Cost-per-Follower (CPF) by a staggering 70%. This achievement not only underscores the bank's commitment to innovation but also positions it as a beacon of Shariah-compliant banking and financial services in the region.Mohammed Ahmed Almuharib, Head of Digital Marketing at Alinma Bank, expressed his satisfaction with the collaboration, stating, "After X’s depreciation of the follower objective led to a sharp increase in cost per follower, Wise.blue’s automation tool helped to significantly reduce it. Collaborating with Wise.blue has proven effective in maneuvering through these recent changes."The journey to success wasn't without its challenges. When faced with the discontinuation of 'Promoted Accounts' ads on social media platform ???? in August 2023, the teams at Alinma Bank and Mindshare MENA remained undeterred. Their objective was clear: to enhance user engagement and foster a vibrant community while optimizing CPF.With meticulous tracking of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) such as CPF and Cost-per-Click (CPC), Alinma Bank and Mindshare MENA have not only surpassed their goals but have set a new standard for effective social media marketing in the financial sector.As Alinma Bank continues its journey of innovation and excellence, this collaboration serves as a testament to the power of strategic partnerships and forward-thinking approaches in achieving unparalleled success.

Ford Motor Company’s International Markets Group President, Kay Hart, inaugurated the new impressive state-of-the-art Premier Motors’ Ford & Lincoln showrooms and service center in Al Ain.The opening was attended by His Excellency Dr Tariq Humaid Al Tayer, Director; Saeed Humaid Al Tayer, Managing Director; Ashok Khanna, Chief Executive Officer; Helal Hanei Omar, Senior Vice President, Ford & Lincoln Sales; Mona Hasan Sadoun, Vice President, Customer Experience & Marketing, Al Tayer Motors, and Ravi Ravichandran, President, Ford Middle East.The showrooms are part of the official Al Ain Ford and Lincoln distributor Premier Motors’ massive 157,000 square feet 3S (Sales, Service and Spare Parts) facility on Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Awwal St in Al Ain.“It is a pleasure to welcome Kay to this facility, which is designed to provide world-class automotive ownership experiences for our customers in Al Ain and delight them with the top-notch vehicle line-up from one of the world’s most celebrated automotive brands,” said Ashok Khanna. “In addition to providing distinctive vehicles, Al Ain customers now have access to Ford’s best-in-class service experience, which is based on maintaining an always-on relationship and an ever-improving user experience.”Kay Hart said: “Our distributor partner, Al Tayer Motors, is fully committed to delivering an exceptional automotive experience for our customers. The new Ford and Lincoln state-of-the-art facility reflects our shared dedication to providing the very best service both in Al Ain, and right across the UAE.“The opening of this facility is further testament to the continued vital role played by the UAE, Gulf, and wider Middle East in Ford International Markets Group’s growth strategy. With this region’s incredible transformation set to continue, Ford remains laser-focused on delivering quality must-have products, services and experiences for our customers.”The showrooms, meticulously planned and designed as per the latest international Ford Signature and Lincoln Vitrine guidelines, have dedicated areas for displaying approved pre-owned cars. They are equipped with new vehicle configuration areas, as well as branded goods and accessories displays. Specially designated celebration bays for customers taking delivery of their vehicles help make the beginning of new journeys memorable, as customers drive away with their new vehicles. In readiness to display electric vehicles (EV), the new showrooms have the necessary infrastructure to charge EVs.The Ford showroom has 16 vehicles on display. All new vehicles are available with five years or 100,000 kilometres warranty and service contract. In addition, the showroom also has five Ford Approved vehicles. Each vehicle undergoes a comprehensive 164-point check-up and comes with a two-year service contract and warranty as well as a 15-day exchange promise.The Lincoln showroom has four new vehicles as well as two Lincoln Certified vehicles displayed. All new vehicles are available with five years or 100,000 kilometres warranty and service contract. Each vehicle undergoes a comprehensive 200-point premium inspection and is available with a two-year service contract, Lincoln Certified warranty, Lincoln history guarantee as well as a 15-day exchange promise.The 62,000-plus square-feet service facility includes a service centre with 16 service bays for Ford & Lincoln, and a body shop with 13 dedicated service bays. The Spare Parts centre covers an area of over 8,400 square feet and is stocked with all necessary parts to meet be able to assist the service centre with their requirements.

STARZPLAY, a leading regional video-on-demand service, has announced a multi-year partnership with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), the world’s premier mixed martial arts organisation.This strategic agreement grants STARZPLAY exclusive broadcast rights to all UFC content throughout the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Additionally, the partnership will see the launch of a dedicated 24/7 UFC channel, STARZPLAY Sports UFC.Through this partnership, fight fans in the MENA region will gain unprecedented access to UFC content, including:  Live Event Streaming: Witness the electrifying intensity of live UFC fights directly through the STARZPLAY app.  Localized Content: Enjoy Arabic-language programming, such as UFC Countdown and UFC Connected, providing deeper insights and analysis.  On-Demand Library: Explore a vast library of past fights, documentaries, and original UFC programming on-demand.“The MENA region is a critical market for UFC,” said David Shaw, UFC Executive Vice President, Head of International and Content. “We’ve had incredible success hosting live events with our partners at the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi. This partnership with STARZPLAY allows us to further expand our reach and provide unparalleled content access to our ever-growing fan base in the Middle East and North Africa.”“UFC has a longstanding relationship with Abu Dhabi, our home city,” said Andy Warkman, STARZPLAY Head of Sport. “We are thrilled to become the exclusive home of UFC in the MENA region. UFC boasts a massive fanbase here, and STARZPLAY is committed to delivering unparalleled coverage, localized specifically for our regional audience. The launch of our dedicated STARZPLAY Sports UFC channel and comprehensive on-demand UFC content hub exemplifies our dedication to showcasing world-class sports tailored for MENA viewers.”The newly launched STARZPLAY Sports UFC channel and its extensive UFC content library will be available on the STARZPLAY app, accessible on Smart TVs, mobile platforms, and the STARZPLAY website. Further details regarding launch dates will be announced soon.

WebEngage, a full stack Retention Operating System, has announced a significant bolstering of its data science and AI practice with the acqui-hiring of the talented data scientists from Propellor.ai. This strategic move is aimed at leveraging the billions of data points in the WebEngage CDP to enable clients with comprehensive best-in-class verticalized analytics and AI-driven solutions as predictive segmentation, recommendations and persona building.WebEngage is intensifying its focus on demonstrating deeper value delivery and ROI from the engagement via a data-enabled Retention Consulting practice. Despite billions of data points and powerful engagement capabilities, the adoption of the platform has room to grow substantially. Unlike acquisition-first advertising platforms like Google and Facebook which have matured over the last couple of decades, the retention and user engagement space is still relatively new and talent supply in the ecosystem is in nascent stages."Unlike productivity SaaS, WebEngage is uniquely placed to make a 20-40% impact on a customer’s revenue and profit metrics. Marketers across the world use ~ 20% of their retention tech stacks, limiting the ROI and impact they draw from it. We saw a clear need to deepen our advisory interventions to help move the needle for them. The exceptional team of Data Scientists will now supercharge how we leverage our customers’ data to deliver value. We’re calling this skin-in-the-game consulting because we only win if our customers win," said Avlesh Singh, Co-founder & CEO, WebEngage.Abhijat Shukla, the 20 year veteran data professional and the founder of Propellor, says: “I’m excited to find such a vast playground to deploy all the skills and lessons with me and my team on delivering deep insights in easily consumable ways that can enable effective decision making. Data-hungry customers are in for a treat.”Karthik Reddy, Managing Partner at Blume Ventures, an investor with WebEngage, says: "WebEngage has a tradition of accelerating product sophistication, driven by their customers' needs. As an investor, we are proud to see this enhanced approach to a data and advisory practice. This can be orbit-shifting in terms of utilization of data for even better retention for the client's customers. Propellor now means an even more impactful WebEngage inside more global consumer marketing teams.”The acquisition of this seasoned team of data scientists underscores WebEngage's dedication to staying at the forefront of MarTech innovation. Alongside a series of product innovations, the layer of service model innovation is expected to be a game-changer in how marketers and business leaders perceive martech solutions: becoming revenue drivers instead of cost centers. The erstwhile customer success manager role at WebEngage is morphing into an analytics-first growth consultant who can interpret funnels and cohorts and talk the language of RoAS and Control Group uplifts.As WebEngage deepens its data and consulting practice, clients can expect substantially enhanced quality of insights and see the compounded effect of new campaigns across channels delivering ROI and contribution to revenue.

Tesla has made a surprising about-face, cancelling its plans for a long-awaited affordable electric car and instead pouring resources into developing self-driving robotaxis, according to a Reuters report. Now the future of electric mobility just got a whole lot more interesting!The scrapped vehicle, often referred to as the "Model 2," was intended to be a $25,000 entry point for budget-conscious consumers and a key driver of Tesla's growth into the mass market. However, the company now cites fierce competition from established Chinese automakers offering a range of affordable EVs as the reason for abandoning the project.This strategic shift marks a significant change of course for Tesla. CEO Elon Musk has long championed the idea of an affordable electric car, even calling it a core mission of the company. His original "master plan" envisioned using profits from luxury models to finance the development of a "low cost family car."Despite Musk's repeated promises, the affordable car project has faced numerous delays. In January, Reuters reported on Tesla's plans to begin production in the latter half of 2025, only to be contradicted by this recent announcement.While details remain murky, Tesla seems to be betting big on robotaxis, a technology with the potential to revolutionize transportation. However, this path is fraught with challenges. Regulatory approval and the complexity of autonomous driving technology pose significant hurdles. Furthermore, Tesla faces competition in the robotaxi space as well.This news comes amidst a period of scrutiny for Tesla. Musk's involvement in various ventures like SpaceX and Twitter has raised questions about his focus on Tesla. Additionally, the company's ambitious sales targets seem less achievable without the affordable car to drive volume.Tesla's stock price initially dipped on the news but recovered somewhat after Musk refuted the report on social media. He even announced an upcoming "Tesla Robotaxi unveil" on August 8, further emphasizing the company's new direction.

PubMatic, renowned for pioneering digital advertising solutions, has recently welcomed Sadia Akhter as its Director of Advertising for the MENA region. With an illustrious career spanning over two decades in media and advertising, Akhter brings a wealth of experience garnered from diverse leadership roles encompassing sales, operations, and client services. Prior to her appointment at PubMatic, she held prominent positions such as Co-Founder & Managing Director at Sociallyz, Managing Director at FreakOut MENA, and Regional Managing Director at Addictive Mobility.In an exclusive conversation with Adgully Middle East, Sadia Akhter, Director of Advertiser Solutions - MENA at PubMatic, provides insights into the company's strategic vision for the region. Emphasizing the growing prominence of women in advertising, she delves into the evolving landscape and the significant contributions made by women, highlighting their inherent strengths in shaping the industry's future trajectory.Please talk a little about PubMaticPubMatic (Nasdaq: PUBM) is an independent technology company maximizing customer value by delivering digital advertising’s supply chain of the future. PubMatic’s sell-side platform empowers the world’s leading digital content creators across the open internet to control access to their inventory and increase monetization by enabling marketers to drive return on investment and reach addressable audiences across ad formats and devices. Since 2006, our infrastructure-driven approach has allowed for the efficient processing and utilization of data in real time. By delivering scalable and flexible programmatic innovation, we improve outcomes for our customers while championing a vibrant and transparent digital advertising supply chain.What is PubMatic’s roadmap in MENA?PubMatic is committed to building the digital advertising supply chain of the future, across the MENA region. To achieve this goal, PubMatic has been increasing its investments in the region and providing its growing client base with best-in-class technology that spans various formats such as CTV, online video, digital display, mobile and more. Following the success of recent product launches such as Activate, our solution that puts buyers in control of their media-buying strategy while simultaneously driving more revenue to publishers, and Convert, our unified advertising and buying commerce media platform which leverages PubMatic’s expertise in monetisation and digital advertising, we are very much looking forward to growing the business and delivering the best value to our clients.Women outnumber men in the advertising industry yet are underrepresented in leadership roles. Your thoughts? Also, please elaborate on your role in advertising. Advertising has historically been a field where women have excelled, as evidenced by their high representation in the industry. However, they often find themselves underrepresented in leadership roles compared to men, revealing that gender biases are still present. Addressing these systemic issues requires widespread behaviour shifts, a cause I've advocated for throughout my career.At PubMatic, where I primarily oversee the buy-side client relationships across the MENA region, we actively recognise and support women’s talent, providing them with opportunities to step into leadership roles. Amélie Grenier-Bolay's journey is a testament to this support. Having been with PubMatic for eight years, she has progressed into a leadership role as the Country Manager for Italy and MENA. Her path highlights the nurturing environment PubMatic cultivates, enabling women to grow and progress into leadership positions.How can men go from being part of the problem to part of the solution?Men can play a pivotal role in advancing gender equality, be it in the workplace or at home. In my case, I’ve worked with several male leaders who never made me feel that I had to push for equality. I was actively encouraged to participate in business decisions, share my expertise, and learn from those experiences.  Generally, I’d urge men to listen to women more and build a foundation of trust and respect in the corporate world. Such a foundation will help men avoid seeing work through the lens of gender and ally with women for common goals. It will help recruiters choose the best person for the job; not the best man. In the context of the corporate world, what are the prevailing challenges for women aspiring for leadership positions? How would you tackle them?Social perceptions, gender stereotypes, and biases pose significant challenges to women, often disrupting and discouraging their journey toward leadership roles. Education is key to addressing such issues. Training programmes and awareness campaigns can help mitigate unconscious bias in hiring, promotion, and performance evaluation processes.  Another important issue would be work-life balance. Balancing leadership responsibilities with family and personal commitments can be challenging for women due to societal expectations and limited support systems. Implementing flexible work arrangements and parental leave policies can enable women in leadership positions to balance their professional and personal responsibilities more effectively.  What has helped you achieve work-life balance?Constant help and encouragement from my husband have been integral to my work-life balance. We have no defined gender roles in our household — we tackle things as they come, with whoever is free handling the task at hand at any given time. Leadership is also about nurturing the next generation of leaders. What is your message for women leaders of tomorrow? Use your voice. Trust your knowledge — you know more than you think you do. The more you believe you belong in the room, the more confident you will feel.Please share personal experiences of navigating gender biases at any point in your career. Gender biases work in mysterious ways. When I first relocated to the Middle East from the UK, I remember attending an industry event where I felt pressured into joining a panel discussion on a market I had been in for only three weeks. My inclusion did not quite feel natural but forced, likely because I’m a woman. I have subsequently cultivated a belief that if I’m an expert in a field, I will not hesitate to share my thoughts. If I lack the necessary expertise, I gladly pass on the opportunity to someone who does. Similarly, it is not uncommon to experience “mansplaining”, which I believe can be navigated through confidence, upskilling, and perseverance. How have women inspired you in your journey? Please elaborate on their influence on your career and leadership style. Over the last 20 years, numerous women at different junctures have inspired me. I've drawn distinctive inspirations from those women mentors and incorporated them as I forged my own path to success. But there are common, stand-out traits among them: Emotional Intelligence and maturity. Emotional intelligence (EQ) is a crucial, often overlooked aspect of leadership. Those traits enabled them to lead by example, take risks, break biases, and succeed.Why do you think is the observance of Women’s Day important? How does it impact the global discourse on gender equality?I had always wondered why just one day was dedicated to women when we deserve recognition and appreciation throughout the year. However, after learning about systemic inequalities and injustice faced by women over centuries, I understood the need to dedicate a day to resolutely acknowledge the impact and importance of women in all walks of life, shed light on prevailing challenges, and create an action plan to address them.

Authored by Jadd Elliot Dib, Founder and CEO, Pangaea XIn today's data-driven world, the approach to data analytics plays a pivotal role in shaping business strategies and decision-making processes. I have witnessed the evolving landscape of data analytics, characterised by contrasting methodologies: artisanal data analytics and industrial data analytics. These two approaches offer distinct advantages and challenges, each catering to different needs in the realm of data analysis and interpretation.Artisanal data analytics embodies a personalised and craft-like approach to data analysis. It focuses on tailoring analytical processes to specific business contexts, incorporating unique insights and nuanced interpretations. Much like an artisan crafting a bespoke masterpiece, artisanal data analytics delves deep into data intricacies, uncovering hidden patterns and correlations that may go unnoticed in standardised approaches.One of the key benefits of artisanal data analytics is its ability to capture the context and complexities of data, providing a more holistic understanding of business challenges and opportunities. By leveraging advanced analytics techniques such as machine learning algorithms and predictive modeling, artisanal analytics empowers organisations to make data-informed decisions with precision and foresight.However, artisanal data analytics also presents challenges, particularly in scalability and resource-intensive efforts. The personalised nature of analysis requires significant expertise, time and resources, making it suitable for focused projects or specialised areas rather than large-scale data processing.On the other hand, industrial data analytics represents a standardised and mass-produced approach to data analysis. It emphasises efficiency, scalability and automation in data processing, leveraging predefined algorithms and workflows to streamline analytical tasks. Industrial analytics excels in handling large volumes of data swiftly and consistently, making it ideal for routine data processing and real-time analytics applications.The main strength of industrial data analytics lies in its scalability and cost-effectiveness, enabling organisations to process vast amounts of data efficiently and derive actionable insights at scale. By adopting standardised methodologies and tools, industrial analytics promotes consistency and repeatability in data analysis processes across diverse business functions.Nevertheless, industrial data analytics may encounter limitations in adapting to unique data contexts and complex analytical requirements. The standardised approach, while efficient, may overlook nuanced insights and subtle variations in data patterns that could be crucial for strategic decision-making.As we navigate the data landscape, it is essential to strike a balance between artisanal and industrial data analytics approaches based on specific business needs and objectives. Combining the precision and context-awareness of artisanal analytics with the scalability and efficiency of industrial analytics can unlock the full potential of data-driven insights for organisations.I think, as a data analytics business owner, it's important to recognise the significance of blending these approaches strategically to deliver tailored and impactful data solutions for our clients. By harnessing the best of both worlds, we empower businesses to extract actionable intelligence from data while optimising resource utilisation and scalability.The evolving landscape of data analytics calls for a nuanced understanding and strategic integration of artisanal and industrial data analytics methodologies. As we embrace data-driven strategies, let us leverage the craftsmanship of artisanal analytics and the efficiency of industrial analytics to drive innovation, growth and success in today's dynamic business environment.

In the spirit of connection that defines Eid celebrations, Audi Abu Dhabi and Al Ain is encouraging residents to prioritize quality time with friends and loved ones. The brand‘s commitment to ‘progress‘ that enriches human experiences is reflected in this year‘s "Disconnect to Reconnect" campaign, which sheds light on a growing concern in relation to the impact of technology on meaningful connections. The initiative responds to surprising results from a study commissioned by the dealership revealing that nearly three-quarters (72%) of UAE residents feel that their mobile phones deprive them of precious family moments.The survey also highlighted a generational divide. A significant portion (26%) of respondents aged 35 and above want to limit screen time to prioritize family interaction. Furthermore, 23% believe implementing phone-free zones during gatherings could positively impact their relationships."At Audi Abu Dhabi, we're committed to supporting the brand claim of ‘Vorsprung’ and believe that progress should have a purpose: to improve your life. That's why we're leading the way in a new era of automotive technology designed to enrich our lives,” said Claire Jackson, Marketing Manager of Audi Abu Dhabi. "Our 'Disconnect to Reconnect' campaign for Eid perfectly reflects this philosophy. It's a reminder to be present and connect with loved ones, especially during special occasions. Let's cultivate a healthier relationship with technology so it enhances, not replaces, the moments that truly matter.“The digital campaign encourages residents across the UAE to disconnect from digital distractions, be more mindful of their smartphone habits, and make lasting memories with family and friends during the Eid Celebrations.The survey, in collaboration with YouGov, gathered insights from more than 1,000 UAE residents aged 18 to 50.

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, today announced the expansion of its Saudi Arabia network with the launch of new flights to Al Qassim. This addition brings the total number of Etihad's Saudi Arabian destinations to four.Beginning June 24th, 2024, Etihad will operate four weekly flights between Abu Dhabi's Zayed International Airport and Al Qassim's Prince Naif Bin Abdulaziz International Airport (ELQ)."This new service isn't just about adding a new destination," said Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer at Etihad Airways. "It's a celebration of 20 years of connecting Abu Dhabi with the rich culture and economic opportunities of Saudi Arabia."The new route caters to both business travelers and tourists, offering a gateway to Al Qassim's unique cultural heritage, lively markets, and stunning date palm groves. Passengers can also experience Etihad's renowned hospitality and service standards, along with the exceptional comfort offered by the airline's new home – Terminal A at Zayed International Airport.In addition to the Al Qassim launch, Etihad is boosting flight frequencies to a number of existing destinations starting June 15th. This includes new routes to Antalya and Jaipur, announced earlier this year. Frequencies will increase for Thiruvananthapuram (up to 10 weekly flights), Amman (up to 14 weekly flights), Cairo (up to 24 weekly flights), Karachi (up to 17 weekly flights), and Colombo (up to 20 weekly flights).These expansions represent a significant increase in Etihad's network. Weekly flights will grow from 642 last summer to 855 in 2024, a 33% increase. The airline's reach also expands from 65 to 76 destinations, enhancing global connectivity.

 CFI, the region’s leading online trading broker, proudly announced its role as the Official Partner of the historic Saudi Super Cup, set to be hosted for the first time in Abu Dhabi from April 8th to 11th, 2024. This partnership marks a significant milestone for CFI, underscoring its influential position within the region and its commitment to supporting major sports events and community initiatives.Hosted by Experience Abu Dhabi, the eminent destination brand for the capital city’s Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT), the Saudi Super Cup will feature the top four teams from Saudi Arabia: Al-Ittihad, Al-Wehda, Al-Hilal, and Al-Nassr. The event promises to captivate audiences with the participation of football icons Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema, alongside renowned regional talents such as Salem Al Dawsari and Abderrazak Hamdallah, all competing for the most distinguished cup in the region.CFI's partnership with the Saudi Super Cup is a testament to its commitment to promoting values of sportsmanship, excellence, and inclusivity across the region. As a prominent player in the UAE's online trading sector, CFI is honored to support one of the most significant sporting events in MENA, further reinforcing its reputation as an industry leader."This year, the hosting of the Saudi Super Cup in Abu Dhabi is a historic event, and we are privileged to be involved as the competition’s Official Partner.," said Hisham Mansour, Co-founder and Managing Director of CFI. "This collaboration highlights our dedication to the community and our ongoing initiatives to empower individuals through sports, illustrating the synergies between athletic excellence and financial acumen. We are looking forward to an unforgettable tournament and the opportunity to once again showcase our brand on a global stage."As the Official Sponsor, CFI will gain prominent brand visibility throughout the event, with its advertisements, logos, and commercials strategically placed to maximize exposure and engagement. The partnership further exemplifies CFI's dedication to cultivating success for traders and investors through unparalleled resources, tools, and support, paving the way for a new era of trading excellence.Furthermore, this groundbreaking occasion the tournament making its debut outside Saudi Arabia in the United Arab Emirates CFI's home and headquarters symbolizes the group's dedication to enriching unique, local events. It exemplifies CFI's role in enhancing the regional and international landscape from its home base, highlighting its pledge to promote the interests of both local and global communities.

SC Ventures, Standard Chartered’s innovation, fintech investment and ventures arm, and NEXT176, the venture building and investment arm of Old Mutual, a Pan-African financial services group, have joined forces to launch an inclusive financial wellness platform. With a shared vision to address financial inclusion, and improve access to budgeting and financial planning tools, this strategic partnership will merge two ventures: SC Ventures-backed Autumn, a financial goals and wealth planning app that was incubated in Singapore; and NEXT176-backed 22seven, a budget aggregation and tracking app based in South Africa. This inclusive wealth management platform will aim to bring simple, affordable, AI-led and Shariah-compliant wealth management solutions to users in the Middle East, Africa and beyond. “The UAE and the Middle East are emerging as one of the leading destinations for wealth management globally — whether it’s high net worth income population, Millennials, or Gen Z — there is demand for technologically advanced and highly-customised wealth management tools supported by ongoing financial education,” said Benito Mable, Venture and Strategic Partnerships Lead based in the UAE, SC Ventures. “The assets under management (AUM) in the Middle East rose 16% to US$1.2 trillion in 2022, according to BCG. The region is expected to grow further and remain the fourth-largest wealth hub in the world making UAE a perfect market for our base.” Soon to be headquartered in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the Middle East’s financial hub, this innovative wealth management platform, is expected to provide access to advanced budgeting, savings, and investment solutions for users in the Middle East, Africa, and Southeast Asia regions, creating a long-lasting positive impact for the future generations. “At SC Ventures, we believe strongly in improving access to financial services through a combination of literacy and digital-first platforms. This partnership is a strong example and will contribute to rewiring the DNA in Banking and financial services in our communities,” said Alex Manson, who leads SC Ventures. “In NEXT176, we found a strategic partner with a shared vision to democratize wealth management. We are looking forward to an impactful venture that will help its clients take ownership of their financial future.” The merger, subject to required approvals, is expected to close in Q2 2024 and create a holistic financial wellness platform aimed at democratizing wealth management. An estimated US$2.4 trillion of investable wealth is held on the African continent; according to the Africa Wealth report 2023 published by Henley & Partners. Wealth management remains generally exclusive to High-Net-Worth Individuals with at least US$1 million in liquid assets, who can access private banks and advisor networks. The average individual lacks access to tools and products to plan, grow and protect their wealth. “This is a significant milestone for 22seven and aligns with NEXT176’s aspiration of positively impacting a billion lives with a product that gives impactful insights into their financial lives across our key geographies on the African continent, and extending to Southeast Asia and the Middle East,” said Vuyo Mpako, Managing Director, NEXT176. “We believe that this merger will further enhance collaboration opportunities between SCV and NEXT176.”

Cannes Lions has announced the participants for the 2024 See It Be It talent acceleration programme for women. 19 creatives, from 14 markets have been selected to take part in this unique learning and development programme at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, taking place from 17-21 June 2024. The cohort will attend an exclusive four-day programme that includes mentorship opportunities, private masterclasses with industry leaders, as well as backstage access and session invitations tailored to each participant’s career goals.The programme will celebrate its 10th anniversary of aiming to achieve equal gender representation among creative directors and leaders across the global industry. Since its inception, See It Be It has brought together over 120 women and non-binary people, from 33 markets. This year’s cohort will include participants from Kazakhstan, Kenya and Thailand for the first time.This year’s Alumni Tutor, Daniela Varela, Creative Director, TBWA\Chiat\Day, selected from last year's cohort, will support the 2024 participants to elevate their experience at the Festival and work closely with programme Ambassador, Madonna Badger, to further the impact See It Be It has on the industry well beyond the Festival week. On her appointment, Varela said: “Joining the journey of this year’s cohort is an incredible joy and a huge responsibility. They represent the programme’s 10 year legacy: a global collective of talent, inspiration and leadership that fosters and enables the change we still need to nurture in our industry. I can’t wait to see what these new 19 stellar minds will unleash.”Commenting on the 2024 cohort, Madonna Badger, See It Be It Chairperson and Ambassador, Founder/CEO/COO, BADGER AGENCY, said: "Witnessing the collective courage, optimism and purpose of the 2024 Cannes See It Be It cohort fills me with immense pride and excitement. These exceptional creative women are reshaping the future of our industry and redefining what is possible. Their shared resolve to pursue excellence, break barriers and drive positive change is awe-inspiring and I absolutely love seeing each of them step into their power. It is an honour to connect with such a vibrant network of talent paving the way for others to flourish in our industry and beyond.”Frank Starling, Chief DEI Officer, LIONS, added: “See It Be It brings together the best and brightest leaders from around the world and we are proud to continue our mission to challenge the creative sector’s gender imbalance and empower women and non-binary creatives to excel in their careers. Our impressive alumni are Lion-winners, changemakers, disruptors and challengers in their disciplines, paving the way forward for future participants to flourish and challenge the status quo. Congratulations to all those selected, and we look forward to welcoming you at the Festival this June.”

GROHE, as part of LIXIL, one of the global leaders in complete bathroom and kitchen fittings, has announced the appointment of Stefan Schmied as the new Leader of the IMEA region at LIXIL. The IMEA region includes India & Subcontinent, the Middle East including Turkiye, and Africa. The appointment reflects GROHE's commitment to global growth, innovation, and customer success.Stefan brings over 20 years of industry experience to his role. He has led key strategic initiatives, expanded channels, built brands, and managed sales operations in the retail, wholesale, and project business for global companies. Stefan has previously led the project business channel at GROHE, transforming it into an independent Business Unit that became a key growth driver for LIXIL EMENA. He has led the specification and execution of new-build and renovation projects, such as globally leading hotel brands, iconic airports, international healthcare groups and prominent residential developers worldwide.In his new role, Stefan will be responsible for accelerating growth and enhancing long-term sales performance of the GROHE brand through cross-regional collaboration and strategic innovation. He will also focus on expanding the customer base, building partnerships and driving innovation to contribute to the GROHE's overall success, in addition to overseeing the company's operations in IMEA.Prior to joining GROHE as part of LIXIL, Stefan has been the CEO and President of major construction companies in Europe and Asia. He has extensive experience in sanitaryware, tiles and sanitary technology, having worked with global companies in C-suite and senior management roles across the Middle East.

Dubai: Hyundai Motor Group has continued its incredible success at the World Car Awards, with the Kia EV9 named the 2024 World Car of the Year in a ceremony held at the New York International Auto Show.The EV9 was also named 2024 World Electric Vehicle, while the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N was crowned the 2024 World Performance Car, reinforcing the Group’s global EV leadership and the technological excellence of its EV-dedicated Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP).These 2024 victories underscore Hyundai Motor Group’s success at the World Car Awards in recent years, with the IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6 both taking triple titles in 2022 and 2023 respectively in the World Car of the Year, World Electric Vehicle and World Car Design of the Year categories.In 2023, the Kia EV6 GT was also named World Performance Car, and in 2020 the Kia Telluride won the overall World Car of the Year title while the Kia Soul EV was crowned World Urban Car.This year, the World Car Awards recognized the Kia EV9’s innovative design, spacious seven-seat interior, and competitive price point. Based on the E-GMP architecture, the EV9 is the first Kia to feature fourth-generation battery technology for improved performance.“We are hugely honored that the 2024 EV9 has been named the World Car of the Year and World Electric Vehicle,” said Ho Sung Song, President and CEO at Kia. “This triumph is a testament to our unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology and design excellence. The Kia EV9’s continued success will drive us to keep delivering exceptional vehicles that redefine the driving experience for customers around the world.”Continuing the IONIQ 5’s success and marking the fourth major victory for the IONIQ 5 lineup at the World Car Awards, the IONIQ 5 N’s World Performance Car title highlights Hyundai’s achievements in defining a new segment of driver-focused high-performance EVs through new technologies and elevated racetrack capability, signaling the first step in N’s electrification strategy. It combines the standard IONIQ 5’s Electric Global Modular Platform with N’s motorsport-bred technologies and leverages N’s expertise from electrified ‘Rolling Labs’ to maximize the EV’s high-performance capabilities. “We are thrilled and honored to receive the prestigious World Performance Car award for our IONIQ 5 N,” said Jaehoon Chang, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company. “This recognition is a testament to Hyundai’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of electric performance and innovation. It is truly gratifying to see our efforts rewarded with a total of seven World Car Awards titles in the last three years. We are proud to continue our winning streak and solidify Hyundai’s position as a leader in the global EV industry.”The World Car Awards is an annual event that sees 100 international jurors across 29 counties drive and vote on a field of eligible vehicles. Taking 10 World Car Awards titles out of a possible 18 since 2022 (and nominated for a further five), Hyundai Motor Group’s recent performance underscores the technological excellence of Hyundai, Kia and Genesis electric vehicles underpinned by the E-GMP EV-dedicated architecture and the Group’s global EV leadership.

Saudi Arabia is expected to see a surge in online shopping across various sectors during Ramadan 2024, according to a recent report by Checkout.com. This trend highlights the growing trust in the kingdom's digital payment ecosystem.Key Takeaways:High-growth categories: The report predicts significant growth in online transactions for services, food stores, apparel, and hospitality during Ramadan.Growing trust: Checkout.com cites a 22% increase in digital payments across all categories during Ramadan 2023, reflecting a rise in consumer confidence towards online shopping.Last year's trends: The data shows a significant increase in online transactions for food stores (94%), apparel (76%), hospitality (49%), and airlines (42%) during Ramadan 2023 compared to the previous year.Remo Giovanni Abbondandolo, General Manager for MENA at Checkout.com, attributes this growth to the increasing trust in digital payment platforms and the evolving digital payments landscape in Saudi Arabia.Abbondandolo highlights the role of rapid digitalization in boosting online spending and the efforts of payment service providers in catering to the evolving needs of merchants.A recent study indicates a 46% rise in spending sentiment among Saudi consumers in 2024 compared to 2023, suggesting a greater interest in Ramadan shopping events.Overall, the report suggests a positive outlook for e-commerce in Saudi Arabia during Ramadan 2024, driven by growing trust in online payments and a shift towards digital shopping

In the bustling world of retail, Ramadan emerges as a pivotal period marked by shifting consumer behaviours and innovative retail strategies. Hakim Amar, Head of Retail Partnerships for EEMEA at GfK, an NIQ Company, offers profound insights into the dynamic landscape of Ramadan retail. From changing shopping hours to the surge in e-commerce, Amar navigates through the intricate tapestry of Ramadan retail trends, shedding light on emerging patterns and successful strategies adopted by retail giants. Join us as we delve into the heart of Ramadan retail with Hakim Amar.What are your insights into the consumer behavior and spending patterns observed during Ramadan?Change in Shopping Hours: With altered eating and sleeping schedules during Ramadan, there is a noticeable shift in shopping hours. Malls and markets may stay open later into the night, catering to shoppers after iftar and prayers.E-commerce Growth: More people turn to online shopping for convenience, and this can be seen in the boost via e-commerce platforms.Increased Spending on Food: Families typically spend more on groceries and food items during Ramadan, for iftar and suhoor. A surge in demand for traditional Ramadan foods and ingredients is observed.What are some common promotional strategies employed by retail companies during Ramada?Bundle Deals: Retailers offer bundle deals for electronics to encourage customers to buy more while creating added value to the purchase.Special Offers, Promotions, and Bank Discounts: These offers, promotions, and exclusive coupon codes attract price-conscious consumers who are looking to make purchases for Ramadan and Eid celebrations.Limited Time Offers and Flash Deals: Retailers may offer exclusive discounts for a short duration, encouraging customers to make purchases quickly before the offer expires.Gift with Purchases: Customers are more likely to make a purchase if they perceive added value in the form of a complimentary gift or sample.Extended Store Hours: This is done to accommodate customers who prefer shopping after iftar, leading to an increase in footfall and sales.Ramadan-Themed Campaigns: Ramadan campaigns surrounding family, togetherness, and giving resonate with customers and help build brand loyaltyCan you discuss any emerging trends in retail sales specific to Ramadan, such as the rise of e-commerce?Demand for electronics and appliances: With extended family gatherings and social events, there's a demand for electronics and appliances that facilitate entertainment, cooking, and communication.Market uplift in the UAE: For the overall technical consumer goods market in the UAE, an 8% uplift was witnessed during the month of March ’23 and April ’23 compared to other non-sale periods.Categories contributing to the Uplift: A few categories which contributed to this uplift were:Deep fryersGaming devices like monitors and video game consolesSmall domestic appliances like food preps, cooking and kitchen appliancesHair dryers.What role do discounts, promotions, and special offers play in driving consumer spending during Ramadan, and how do they differ from other times of the year?! Here's the information in a more legible format:Increased Social Gatherings during Ramadan: Ramadan sees increased social gatherings and preparation for Eid, making consumers more open to promotional efforts.Strategic Use of Attractive Deals: Retailers strategically use attractive deals that resonate with the festive atmosphere, especially towards the end of Ramadan.Intensified Competition in Retail: The competitive retail landscape intensifies the use of discounts, with online platforms and pure players like Noon and Amazon playing a significant role.In your experience, what are some successful case studies or examples of retail companies effectively capitalizing on Ramadan retail trends in the Gulf countries?Strategic Promotions by Pure Players: Companies like Noon and Amazon capitalize on key opportunities and periods before, during, and after Ramadan to launch promotions and sales, aligning with customer sentiments.Week-long Ramadan Deals Event: These companies host a week-long Ramadan Deals event, offering discounts on various products including electronics, home appliances, beauty products, and kitchen essentials. They partner with popular brands and provide exclusive flash sales and limited-time offers throughout the week to encourage online shopping.Virtual Ramadan Bazaars: To enhance the shopping experience, these platforms introduce virtual Ramadan bazaars, showcasing artisanal products and handmade crafts from local sellers.

Ramadan traditions are fueling a surge in online shopping across the MENA region and motivate people to buy more, according to a new study from Flowwow, a UAE-based global gifting marketplace for local brands, and Admitad, an affiliate marketing platform. The UAE is leading with an average order value (AOV) of 102 USD during Ramadan this year, followed by Kuwait and Qatar with 99 USD and 79 USD, respectively.Flowwow data shows that sales of the florist’s original bouquets have surged by 220% from 2023 to 2024. The turnover of the “confectionary” category for the first three months of 2024 is already half of the total turnover for 2023. In March 2024, the company's experts observed a 36% uptick in custom-designed cakes, a 26% rise in personalized bento cakes, and a 15% increase in chocolate-covered strawberries featuring customized designs.Despite the fact that the key days of the holy month are still ahead, according to Admitad partner network, the number of online orders has already increased by 4% and GMV by 6%. The average order volume has also slightly increased — from 34.5 USD to 35.3 USD.Certain categories of goods and services have experienced significant spikes in popularity compared to non-Ramadan periods. Hotels have seen a remarkable increase of 56%, followed by airplane tickets (+40%), flowers and souvenirs (+37%), electronics (+30%), and food delivery (+26%). Additionally, there has been a notable surge in the purchase of sporting goods (+21%).As a gifting marketplace, Flowwow is observing a remarkable uptick in the popularity of local and personalized gifts. The company’s experts report that in March 2024 alone, the number of online gift purchases from local brands in the UAE increased by 65% compared to the same period last year and by 84% compared to non-festive periods. Sales of the florist’s original bouquets have surged by 220% from 2023 to 2024. The turnover of the “confectionary” category for the first three months of 2024 is already half of the total turnover for 2023. In March 2024, the company's experts observed a 36% uptick in custom-designed cakes, a 26% rise in personalized bento cakes, and a 15% increase in chocolate-covered strawberries featuring customized designs.  Additionally, there's a noticeable increase in the frequency of orders for cosmetics and fragrances from local brands, including handmade varieties. “The growing trend towards authenticity highlights a shift towards supporting local businesses and embracing individuality in gift-giving choices. Local makers often have a deeper understanding of multicultural preferences, offering unique options that resonate with people's needs. Given UAE’s diverse population, strong cultural tradition of gift-giving, and the increasing impact of digital technologies, the country’s online gifting market presents significant growth prospects and is predicted to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19-20% from 2024 to 2028,” commented Flowwow’s CEO and co-founder. Admitad experts made a comparison with last year's activity and revealed that users are making 15% more purchases during Ramadan 2024. Interestingly, although the number of purchases has increased, the total amount spent has remained relatively stable. This suggests that shoppers during Ramadan 2024 are making smaller, more frequent orders, resulting in an overall increase in sales volume.“As Ramadan brings together tradition and modern shopping, we’re seeing more people choosing to buy gifts online, favoring convenience and the chance to support local shops. At Admitad, our numbers show that people aren't just buying more online; they're also making smaller, more thoughtful purchases that truly capture the spirit of Ramadan. As Eid Al-Fitr approaches, a time when everyone is looking to buy gifts, we expect online shopping to hit new highs. This trend shows how digital shopping is not just about buying things easily but also about finding meaningful gifts that celebrate our traditions,” said Anna Gidirim, CEO of Admitad. Drawing from past spending patterns, Flowwow also anticipates significant growth in online gifting, with certain gifting categories experiencing surge in the end of Ramadan: mono bouquet flowers (+75%), original flower bouquets (+55%) festive-themed cakes (31%), cupcakes (+26%), chocolate-covered strawberries (+14%), traditional sweets sets (+9%) and themed gift hampers (+8%).

The widespread adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning technologies in recent years is providing threat actors with sophisticated new tools to perpetrate their attacks. One of these are deepfakes which include generated human-like speech or photo and video replicas of people. While the time and effort to create these attacks often outweigh their potential ‘rewards’, Kaspersky warns that companies and consumers must still be aware that deepfakes will likely become more of a concern in the future.Kaspersky research has found the availability of deepfake creation tools and services on darknet marketplaces. These services offer generative AI video creation for a variety of purposes, including fraud, blackmail, and stealing confidential data. According to the estimates by Kaspersky experts, prices per one minute of a deepfake video can be purchased for as little as $300.There are also concerns when it comes to the significant divide around digital literacy amongst Internet users. According to the recent Kaspersky Business Digitisation Survey¹ 51% of employees surveyed in the Middle East, Turkiye and Africa (META) region said they could tell a deepfake from a real image; however in a test only 25%2 could actually distinguish a real image from an AI-generated one. This puts organisations at risk given how employees are often the primary targets of phishing and other social engineering attacks.For example, cybercriminals can create a fake video of a CEO requesting a wire transfer or authorising a payment, which can be used to steal corporate funds. Compromising videos or images of individuals can be created, which can be used to extort money or information from them.“Despite the technology for creating high-quality deepfakes not being widely available yet, one of the most likely use cases that will come from this is to generate voices in real-time to impersonate someone. For example, a finance worker at a multinational firm was recently tricked into transferring $25 million to fraudsters because of deepfake technology posed as the company’s chief financial officer in a video conference call. It’s important to remember that deepfakes are a threat not only to businesses, but also to individual users - they spread misinformation, are used for scams, or to impersonate someone without consent – and are a growing cyberthreat to be protected from,” says Vladislav Tushkanov, Lead Data Scientist at Kaspersky.For protection against the various threats posed by deepfakes, Kaspersky recommends people and businesses take the following actions:Pay attention to suspicious calls. Employees need to be mindful of poor sound quality, an unnatural monotony of the ‘person’s’ voice, unintelligible speech, and extraneous noise.Be aware of the key characteristics of deepfake videos. This includes jerky movement, shifts in lighting from one frame to the next, shifts in skin tone, lips poorly synchronised with speech, and poor lighting.Never make decisions based on emotions, and do not share details with anyone. It is always better to ask something that only that person might know or stop the call and double-check the information received through several channels. This is where the ‘trust but verify’ protocol is important.Check and update the cybersecurity practices of the organisation.A solution such as Kaspersky Threat Intelligence can assist keeping information security specialists up to date on the most recent developments in the deepfake game.Companies should also strengthen the human firewall by ensuring their employees understand what deepfakes are, how they work, and the challenges they can pose. This can encompass ongoing awareness and education drives to teach employees how to spot a deepfake.

AXIAN Telecom, one of the leading pan-African telecom groups, has appointed Vivek Badrinath to its Board of Directors as a Non-Executive Independent Director (NED).Before his new appointment, Badrinath spent three years at Vantage Towers AG where he was the Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Management Board. He led the establishment of the towers company in 2020, facilitated its IPO in 2021, and eventually its sale to Private Equity in 2023. Under his leadership, Vantage Towers effectively managed 88,000 telecom towers across eight European countries.Badrinath has held extensive leadership roles within the telecommunications sector. In 2016, he assumed the position of CEO of Africa Middle East Asia Pacific at Vodafone, joining their Executive Committee. In this capacity, he provided oversight to Vodafone's operations across various regions including the Vodacom Group, India, Australia, Egypt, Ghana, Kenya, and New Zealand. Additionally, he served as the Interim CEO of Vodafone Business during his tenure. Prior to his time at Vodafone, Mr. Badrinath held key positions at Orange, starting in 2004 as the CTO of Orange Mobile before advancing to the Group CTO. His journey at Orange culminated in his appointment as CEO of Orange Business Services and subsequently as Deputy CEO of Orange Group, where he spearheaded initiatives in Innovation, Marketing, and Technology.He also served as the Deputy Chief Executive at the renowned international hospitality group Accor Hotels where he was responsible for overseeing marketing strategies, digital solutions, distribution channels, and information systems.Hassanein Hiridjee, Chairman of the Board commented: “We are delighted to welcome Vivek Badrinath to the AXIAN Telecom Board. Badrinath’s leadership in managing telecom infrastructure and driving strategic growth aligns perfectly with AXIAN Telecom's vision of responsible expansion across Africa. With his wealth of knowledge and commitment to excellence, we are confident that he will make significant contributions to our mission of enhancing connectivity and improving the lives of communities throughout the continent. On behalf of the Board, I extend our warmest welcome to Badrinath.""I'm thrilled and deeply honored to become a part of AXIAN Telecom. Drawing from my experience and expertise in the telecommunications sector, I am looking forward to playing a pivotal role in driving AXIAN Telecom to new heights in Africa. I firmly believe that together, we can make a substantial and noteworthy impact across the continent,” said Badrinath about his appointment.Badrinath also previously served on many boards as a Non-Executive Director including Nokia, GSMA, Atos and Accor Group.

Nike has announced the debut of the Dubai edition of its globally recognized 'Well Festival'. This two-day event promises a weekend of movement, mindfulness, and sound, supported by the esteemed Nike Well Collective. Set against the stunning backdrop of Nara Desert Resort, the festival will unfold from 4pm to 11 pm on Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th April, 2024. Tickets are priced at AED 150, with all proceeds benefiting the Al Jalila Foundation through its partnership with 'Heroes of Hope'.The 'Well Festival' is a celebration open to all, offering an array of reimagined wellness experiences. Participants can immerse themselves in diverse movement and mindfulness programs designed to inspire activity and foster well-being. Through collaborations with local talent and athletes, Nike redefines wellness by seamlessly blending movement, art, and music for an unparalleled experience.Amy Montagne, VP/GM of Global Nike Women’s, said: "Inspired by insights from our Nike Women’s consumers, Nike Well Collective is designed to support well-being journeys for everyone, however they define them. It celebrates all bodies and all forms of movement. Because we know holistic fitness is more than just sport, it’s focusing on body, mind, and life. As Nike exists to champion athletes and sport, our ultimate goal is to help more people move, feel good in their bodies and connect with what matters most — a life well lived."The festival comprises four zones: "The Energy Circle,” “The Conversation Pit,” “The Sanctuary,” and “The Wadi”. Attendees can anticipate engaging in movement sessions such as high-intensity interval training (HIIT), dancing, yoga, and sound healing in “The Energy Circle”. “The Conversation Pit” will host beneficial panel discussions and workshops covering various topics. “The Sanctuary” will focus on breathing techniques, sound healing, and meditation. Lastly, “The Wadi” will cater to pre and post-workout meals and snacks, offering a variety of healthy options.Proceeds from ticket sales will support the Al Jalila Foundation's partnership with 'Heroes of Hope', aimed at nurturing sporting, social, and interpersonal skills for people of determination to realize their sporting potential and individual dreams. Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, expressed gratitude, stating, “We are delighted to be the chosen charity partner for the inaugural Dubai edition of the Nike Well Festival."Launched by Nike in 2023, the Nike Well Collective underscores the brand's commitment to supporting wellness journeys worldwide. Through a global community of trainers, coaches, and wellness experts, Nike delivers expertise and guidance across body, mind, and life.

SAMACO, the exclusive agent for Porsche cars in the Kingdom, has announced the return of the "Porsche World Road Show Event." This event is equipped to offer a distinctive experience for Porsche fans and customers, featuring a comprehensive driving experience with all Porsche models.The previous Porsche World Road Show Event in Saudi Arabia took place in 2018 at the Nofa Resort in Riyadh and The Track Jeddah, providing exceptional and comprehensive driving experiences for Porsche enthusiasts. The event was scheduled to be from March 21-24, 2024, in Riyadh and from April 2-5, 2024, in Jeddah, expected to surpass expectations and offer enthusiasts the opportunity to experience Porsche models up close.Participants at the event in Saudi Arabia enjoyed exciting activities, including driving various Porsche models in activities like car control, road maneuvering, controlled tours on and off-road, and exploration of electric mobility. These activities allowed participants to experience the advanced technologies and dynamic performance that define Porsche models.Rashad Embaby, General Manager of Porsche Saudi Arabia, expressed his pleasure at hosting the "Porsche World Road Show Event" for the second time in the Kingdom, emphasizing the unique experience that is offered across various Porsche models and its inspirational value.The event attracted over 800 attendees in Riyadh and Jeddah over eight days, providing a broad opportunity to engage Porsche enthusiasts and those interested in its technology and dynamic performance. The selected event locations adhere strictly to Porsche's safety standards.

Riyadh-headquartered MBC Group has announced that Samar Akrouk, a seasoned member of the team, will be the new Managing Director of MBC Studiosfollowing Christina Wayne's departure.Akrouk will continue her role as Director of Production for the broader MBC group alongside her new responsibilities.Having dedicated nearly three decades to MBC, Akrouk has been instrumental in overseeing the production of all non-scripted content for MBC TV channels, the streaming platform Shahid, and social media. Her portfolio includes successful local adaptations of popular shows such as Idol, Project Runway, Top Chef, The Voice, and X Factor. Additionally, she led the team behind the hit Arab musical film Sukkar.In her expanded role, Akrouk will concentrate on expanding MBC Studios' reach beyond Saudi Arabia and the Middle East, particularly targeting non-English-speaking markets. MBC Studios has recently made significant strides in original productions, boasting projects like the high-budget film "Desert Warrior" directed by Rupert Wyatt and featuring Anthony Mackie, as well as the notable regional project "HWJN". While the studio primarily focuses on Arabic-language content, it also incorporates English-language titles into its repertoire.Expressing her enthusiasm for the new position, Akrouk stated, “I am absolutely delighted and thrilled to take on the responsibilities of my new role as Managing Director of MBC Studios, building upon the exceptional achievements of the team so far. This role marks a significant milestone in my career, one which I have devoted to the MBC Group family since 1995.“Our forthcoming endeavors in drama and film production arrive at an opportune moment. There’s no doubt that our region, especially the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, is in the spotlight, drawing considerable interest from leading international production studios focused on creating world-class content. I cannot wait to delve deeper, roll up my sleeves, and further contribute to this incredible organization that I have called home for the past 27 years.”

Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort is delighted to announce the appointment of Karim Abdelhamid as the General Manager, responsible for overseeing the Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort. Karim is no stranger to Sofitel’s brand and has garnered over 25 years of rich experience in managing luxury and lifestyle properties globally. Sofitel Al Hamra is thrilled to welcome back Karim, who brings a wealth of expertise to the soon-to-be launched beach resort of Al Hamra.During his last assignment as Vice President of Hotel Operations at The First Group in Dubai, Karim has demonstrated exceptional leadership in driving operational success across the group’s diverse hotel portfolios. His remarkable skills from executing profitability strategies along with a strong track record of building and sustaining high-performing teams have led to the overall success of the group’s properties.Karim strength also lies in Food and Beverage operations, having, previously held positions overseeing Michelin-star venues and executing banquets held in large convention centers in the United States and the United Arab Emirates.Throughout his illustrious career, Abdelhamid has lent his expertise to renowned luxury and lifestyle hotels worldwide. His professional journey includes notable stints at iconic establishments such as The Plaza Hotel – A Fairmont Property, The Knickerbocker Hotel, and The Ritz Carlton Central Park in New York, as well as the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract in Egypt.His extensive experience also spans across luxury properties in Dubai, Philadelphia, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and Qatar as well as fostering operational excellence during his tenure at Intercontinental Festival City, a recognized flagship property in Dubai.Abdelhamid has also been instrumental in developing nine ultra-luxury hotels, including prestigious brands like Mandarin Oriental, Park Hyatt, and Capella. His unwavering commitment to guest satisfaction has consistently driven improvements year on year, ensuring the continued success and positioning of his properties.Karim Abdelhamid, General Manager of Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort says, “I am very honoured to return to the Sofitel brand and begin this new chapter as Sofitel marks their 60th Diamond Anniversary. Having previously worked with Sofitel Legend Old Cataract and Sofitel Philadelphia at Rittenhouse Square, I am thrilled to be leading an exceptional team of talents at Sofitel Al Hamra, setting new benchmarks in terms of bespoke experiences and extending the French luxury lifestyle and elegance alongside the Arabian spirit.”As General Manager, Karim Abdelhamid will play an essential role in shaping the soon-to-be opened Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort, a part of La Maison - Sofitel Legend, Sofitel, MGallery & Emblems. Ensuring that it remains a preferred destination for discerning travelers seeking unparalleled luxury and hospitality.

Gulf Air, the national carrier of the Kingdom of Bahrain, will launch four weekly flights from Bahrain to Munich, Germany starting July 2024.This move is part of the airline’s ongoing commitment to enhancing its network throughout Europe, offering passengers an array of options while meeting their increasing demand for both leisure and business travel.Gulf Air will operate from Bahrain International Airport to Munich International Airport, ensuring convenient connectivity using its Airbus 321neo aircraft.In addition to the Munich route, the airline continues to strengthen its European presence through seasonal destinations, including the recently added summer flights to Nice Geneva, Malaga, and Bodrum.The addition of Munich increases the airline’s Germanic operations to 11 weekly flights, as Gulf Air operates daily flights to the cosmopolitan city of Frankfurt. The first scheduled flight between Bahrain and Germany was operated in 1986, when Gulf Air’s inaugural flight from the Kingdom of Bahrain to Frankfurt commenced.

 Following the success of its inaugural event in Palm Beach in 2022, the Crypto Polo Cup is set to debut in Dubai on April 20, 2024, subsequent to TOKEN2049 Dubai. Hosted by Luna PR, the award-winning public relations and marketing agency, the event will unite world-class Polo players to compete on the pristine fields of the Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club. As one of the world's oldest team sports, known as the “The Sport of Kings,” Polo combines horsemanship and strategy. Crypto Polo Cup aims to unite the web3 revolution with the prestige of Polo while bringing together the biggest names in the cryptocurrency and blockchain industries in the region. The private event caters to a carefully curated guest list of high-profile entrepreneurs, investors, family office representatives, crypto founders, investors, entrepreneurs, and venture capitalists, with Oobit and Ghaf Capital confirmed as the 2024 event partners. “The purpose of the event has always been to connect the Web3 world with traditional industries, creating a platform for ideas and partnerships to come to life. Dubai has always been a must-destination for the Crypto Polo Cup for multiple reasons. Dubai has grown into a strategic global hub situated in the centre of all continents. Moreover, Polo is not just another sport in the United Arab Emirates but rather a cultural phenomenon ingrained in local history. Dubai has been home to Luna PR’s headquarters for several years - and we continuously strive to bring meaningful impact to the local community.” said Nikita Sachdev, Founder & CEO of Luna PR. Feras Al Sadek Partner at Ghaf Capital, said: "For the past 18 years, my primary respite from reality has been found in the pursuit of equestrian activities, particularly horse riding and Polo. With a strong passion for web3 and blockchain technology, I have been particularly interested in the potential intersection of Polo and web3. As a trailblazer in the realm of web3 within the region, Crypto Polo Cup marks a significant milestone as the first of its kind in the MENA region. The audience and community can anticipate a compelling and groundbreaking experience. I am eager to witness Ghaf Capital Partners emerge as an early supporter, reflecting our commitment to pioneering initiatives."Beyond the high-level Polo tournament and networking opportunities, the event promises to be a luxury occasion offering a curated F&B experience, a glamorous fashion show, live music, and more. 

DXC Technology (NYSE: DXC), today announced the expansion of Kylie Watson’s role as the Head of Security for Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa in addition to her current role in Australia and New Zealand.With more than 30 years of experience in leading complex projects and teams, Watson is a highly experienced, innovative and outcome-focused cyber security leader with a proven track record of delivering results and transforming businesses for sustainable growth.Kylie will be responsible for helping DXC’s customers across the region enhance their cyber posture and protect them against threats with proactive advisory and managed security services - from threat intelligence through to compliance.“I am very excited to be joining a team with the right focus that boasts experience across multiple industries and geographies. I feel confident in our ability to deliver expert services and threat intelligence to our customers across their IT environment and operations, while spreading awareness on how to withstand security threats by using smart cyber resilience strategies”. Kylie said.Watson’s passion extends to driving cultural change, improving organisational culture, while welcoming and embracing diversity and inclusion. She has also won awards for coaching, mentoring and fostering innovation.Seelan Nayagam, President at DXC Technology for the Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa region extended his warm welcome saying, “Kylie is a great fit for not just her role but also the organisational culture that we have built here at DXC Technology, with her commitment and passion towards supporting and expanding diversity and inclusion initiatives which create environments where everyone can thrive”. Watson has previously held leadership positions in Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, and Thailand for SAP, Deloitte, PwC and IBM.

Saudi Arabia is expected to see a surge in online shopping across various sectors during Ramadan 2024, according to a recent report by Checkout.com. This trend highlights the growing trust in the kingdom's digital payment ecosystem.Key Takeaways:High-growth categories: The report predicts significant growth in online transactions for services, food stores, apparel, and hospitality during Ramadan.Growing trust: Checkout.com cites a 22% increase in digital payments across all categories during Ramadan 2023, reflecting a rise in consumer confidence towards online shopping.Last year's trends: The data shows a significant increase in online transactions for food stores (94%), apparel (76%), hospitality (49%), and airlines (42%) during Ramadan 2023 compared to the previous year.Remo Giovanni Abbondandolo, General Manager for MENA at Checkout.com, attributes this growth to the increasing trust in digital payment platforms and the evolving digital payments landscape in Saudi Arabia.Abbondandolo highlights the role of rapid digitalization in boosting online spending and the efforts of payment service providers in catering to the evolving needs of merchants.A recent study indicates a 46% rise in spending sentiment among Saudi consumers in 2024 compared to 2023, suggesting a greater interest in Ramadan shopping events.Overall, the report suggests a positive outlook for e-commerce in Saudi Arabia during Ramadan 2024, driven by growing trust in online payments and a shift towards digital shopping.

Diriyah Season has teamed up with advertising giants UM and FP7 McCann KSA to introduce a pioneering campaign that merges the realms of TikTok and out-of-home (OOH) advertising. Termed "Out of Phone (OOP)", this innovative initiative marks a regional first, aiming to extend the reach of TikTok content beyond the digital sphere.The campaign, set against the backdrop of Diriyah Season's annual festivities, embarks on a journey to encapsulate the cultural richness of Diriyah, a significant region within Saudi Arabia. With a focus on cultural activations, the collaboration between TikTok and OOH advertising seeks to illuminate the essence of Diriyah and its profound resonance with the Saudi population.One of the distinguishing features of the campaign is its portrayal of Diriyah Season experiences through OOH ads that mirror the captivating allure of TikTok content. Renowned creators from the Saudi TikTok community have been enlisted to capture the essence of their Diriyah Season encounters, transforming ordinary billboards into vibrant showcases of cultural celebration.These captivating moments are then broadcasted across strategically positioned OOH screens in Riyadh, including prominent locales such as Riyadh Boulevard and City. By turning everyday individuals into billboard stars, the campaign not only amplifies the reach of TikTok content but also fosters a sense of inclusivity and community participation.Commenting on the collaboration, President of Diriyah Season and Group CEO of Diriyah GateDevelopment Authority, Jerry Inzerillo, said: "In collaboration with UM and FP7 McCann KSA, we've embarked on an exhilarating journey to redefine the essence of Diriyah Season through our latest campaign utilizing TikTok OOP. This innovative fusion of tradition and technology not only captures the spirit of our heritage but also showcases the vibrancy of our modern-day celebrations. It's a testament to the harmonious collaboration between multiple teams, all working tirelessly to ensure that our campaign stays true to the heart of Diriyah while highlighting the myriad exciting experiences within Diriyah Seasons."Commenting on the impact of the campaign, Nadeem Ibrahim, Head of Digital, UM KSA, said: “With a brand as significant as a Giga project in Saudi Arabia, we embraced the challenge set by the client to craft a groundbreaking media first. TikTok OOP was the perfect fit for us. What better way than to make people in Riyadh billboard famous? The campaign sparked conversations across Riyadh, solidifying the enduring presence of Diriyah Seasons, while fundamentally reshaping our approach to audience engagement. By seamlessly integrating the influence of digital platforms with the expansive reach of out-of-home advertising, this initiative highlights the transformative potential of innovative collaborations in shaping brand experiences and captivating audiences in novel and captivating ways.”Echoing this sentiment, Mohammed Bahmishan, CEO of FP7 McCann KSA, added: “Diriyah Season embodies a truly unique brand – it's the birthplace of the people, for the people, and represents their experiences. We needed to break away from conventional mass brand advertising and find a creative solution that truly resonated with the brand's essence. It wasn't a straightforward brief, but we met it head-on with an amazing synergy of creativity, media, and technology."The Season aims to offer visitors an unrivalled authentic experience that combines arts and culture, live performance, and experiential experiences to showcase nearly six hundred years of history and heritage in a compelling and entertaining way. 

COLORS, Viacom18's Hindi entertainment channel, has cemented its position as the undisputed leader amongst Indian and Pakistani viewers in the UAE by achieving the coveted No. 1 ranking in the Hindi General Entertainment Channel (GEC) category, as per IPSOS TRP ratings data in the UAE in February ‘24. This remarkable feat marks the culmination of consistent growth through strategic programming and marketing initiatives, solidifying COLORS' position as the preferred destination for captivating television experiences.The channel has been growing steadily in terms of viewership (TRP metric) over the past year.  Amongst Indian and Pakistani viewers in the UAE, COLORS is #1 Hindi GEC in the primetime slot for the past 5 months (Oct’23 to Feb ’24, 6pm to 12 am)  #1 Hindi GEC amongst Indians for last 6 months (Sep'23Feb'24)“We are glad to be the leading Hindi GEC in the UAE,” said Govind Shahi, Executive Vice President, and Head of International Business, IndiaCast Media. “This achievement is a testament to the unwavering support of our viewers and the dedication of our teams in creating compelling content that resonates with our audiences. We are committed to further enriching the viewing experience by introducing a robust line-up of shows and movies, ensuring COLORS remains the preferred entertainment destination for our viewers in the UAE.”The channel's recent programming refresh in February has further fuelled its success. The flagship dance reality show, Dance Deewane, has taken the UAE by storm, captivating viewers with its electrifying performances. Additionally, recently launched fiction dramas Qayaamat Se Qayaamat Tak, Mera Balam Thanedaar and Doree have garnered widespread attention. On the events front, COLORS has also been successfully engaging with audiences on-ground through COLORS Laughter Night featuring renowned Indian artists in Dubai like Anubhav Singh Bassi, Amit Tandon, Rahul Dua and Gaurav Kapoor to name a few.Movie premieres are another key component of COLORS' success. Blockbusters like Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani (starring Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt), Bhediya (starring Varun Dhawan and Kriti Sanon), and Dasvi (starring Abhishek Bachchan) have enjoyed successful premieres on the channel. Fans can look forward to a continued stream of movie premieres, including Govinda Naam Mera, Gehraiyaan, and Mumbaikar, ensuring COLORS remains the ultimate destination for the latest Bollywood hits.To cater specifically to the international audience, COLORS has launched exciting non-fiction shows like Desi Beat and Colors Food Trail in March, exploring the vibrant culinary landscape of India. The gripping crime thriller NRI Haadsa also promises to enthral viewers with its suspenseful narrative.COLORS' dominant position in the UAE is a testament to its commitment to delivering high-quality entertainment that resonates with the diverse preferences of South Asian audiences

Walt Disney shareholders voted to re-elect all 12 current board members, handing CEO Bob Iger a victory in his proxy fight with activist investors. This ends a costly and contentious battle launched by billionaire Nelson Peltz and Blackwells Capital, both seeking board seats and changes at the company.The activist investors contended that the entertainment company was underperforming in this era of streaming.“I want to thank our shareholders for their trust and confidence in our Board and management. With the distracting proxy contest now behind us, we’re eager to focus 100% of our attention on our most important priorities: growth and value creation for our shareholders and creative excellence for our consumers,” said Bob Iger.Despite the win, Disney still faces significant hurdles:Finding Iger's successor: With Iger's retirement planned for 2026, the board needs to identify a suitable replacement. They assured shareholders of a dedicated search.Streaming profitability: Disney must make its streaming business profitable, a key concern for investors.ESPN app launch: Launching a successful app for the flagship ESPN network remains a priority.Analysts believe Iger has a limited window to deliver on his recovery plan. Failing to do so could see shareholder sentiment shift.Peltz and Blackwells, though disappointed, highlighted some gains:Peltz said: "We want Disney to get back to making great content and delighting consumers." He promised to remain vigilant.Blackwells informed that their primary goal of keeping Peltz off the board was achieved.The proxy fight was a referendum on Disney's ability to:Reinvigorate film and TV franchisesMake streaming profitableSecure ESPN's digital futureBoth sides invested heavily in a public campaign, which included personal attacks.While Iger received 94% shareholder support, Peltz only secured 31% votes."Shareholders appear to trust Iger's vision and see Peltz as disruptive," said Bill George, a former CEO.Trian, Peltz's firm, was Disney's fifth-largest shareholder. Their investment in Disney underperformed due to the proxy fight.Disney stock has risen 31% this year, making it the top performer on the Dow Jones.While Trian feels disappointed, but he acknowledges Disney's rising stock price.While respecting shareholder decision, Blackwells Capital has taken the position that their candidate could have helped.Overall, Disney has gained breathing room but needs to deliver on its promises. Activist investors remain engaged, and pressure to improve performance persists.