BKN301 Group, a Fintech company offering Innovative Payments and Banking-as-a-Service solutions with a focus on high-growth markets especially in the MENA area, continues its development strategy, fostering its growth in the Middle East, especially in Qatar, where it opened a new branch last July, that will help the company better serve the Arabic Gulf.As part of this growth and as a result of the interest of fast growing countries in innovative payments and financial solutions, BKN301 signed a partnership with CWallet, an award winning Fintech startup, with Payment Service Provider (PSP) licensed from Qatar Central Bank committed in providing financial freedom and inclusion to a growing number of customers. Thanks to this agreement BKN301 provides CWallet with a state-of-the-art platform that will improve the customer experience, increase security and respond to the everchanging needs of people.CWallet's core business is focused on the development of remittance platforms, enabling digital cross-border money transfers and thanks to the partnership with BKN301, the company takes a significant leap forward in the products it offers to its clients, that will be able to monitor, manage and collect their payments, using an innovative gateway, seamlessly integrating with the solutions offered by CWallet.In particular, CWallet will integrate 301pay, the BKN301’s payment gateway available in white-label mode, designed to facilitate not only e-commerce development but also mobile payments in physical stores. With this new integration into CWallet, the advantages for affiliated Qatari merchants are heightened. On one hand, they will have access to manage transactions and have a complete view of business performance thanks to statistics showing real-time collections, payments, refunds and aggregated data on sales volumes. On the other hand, they can receive payments not only through e-commerce but also through physical in-store transactions via the CWallet App, enabling customers to use their wallet for daily expenses and purchases.This completes CWallet's value proposition to its users, expanding its reach not only in remittance payments but also in facilitating payments through a digital wallet at affiliated merchants via the CWallet App.According to the latest report by the Qatar Central Bank, the Fintech sector is expected to bring many tangible benefits to the population and to the economy, as the industry is set to grow by 40 to 50 times the current size by 2027. Qatar is living a strong expansion of its digital payments market, thanks to a great interest in innovative banking services, the total value of digital transactions in the country will grow at a CAGR of 12.4% over the next 4 years, reaching $10.47 billion in 2027 (1).Stiven Muccioli, Founder & CEO of BKN301, says: "This partnership with CWallet represents a new important step in our expansion in Qatar and a testament to the power and adaptability of our modular solutions. Our mission has always been to break down barriers and accelerate the spread of digital payments and innovative financial solutions in high growth markets. A goal that we share with CWallet, committed in providing financial freedom and inclusion, and that together we can reach by bringing new and innovative solutions that can have a real impact on the lives and well-being of the population”.Michael Javier, Founder and CEO of CWallet, says: “We have found in BKN301 a strategic partner able to provide what we were looking for: a cutting-edge solution that could improve the experience we offer, always guaranteeing the greatest security and ease of use on both ends, to clients and merchants. Thanks to this partnership and to the wide range of opportunities that it will bring to us, we are committed in improving the financial well-being and inclusion of many people, allowing users to borrow, save, earn, and invest for their future”.Jordan A. Fabbri, Country Leader BKN301 Qatar, says: “Together with CWallet, we are shaping the future of payment services in Qatar. Through our strategic partnership, we’re unlocking doors to advanced payment solutions, bringing a wave of innovation and international convenience”.

Joyo Technology Pte. Ltd, the owner and operator of the Kwai short-video sharing App, has revealed a contract agreement with ‘Advert on Click’ to manage the promotion and sale of the ad spaces on the Kwai app in the Middle East and North Africa.Under the agreement, ‘Advert on Click’ will Kwai’s media sales to advertisers who want to reach over19 million users in the MENA region.Commenting on the agreement, Fahed Aldeeb, CEO of Advert on Click, said: "Kwai App has witnessed remarkable growth in the number of new users in the MENA region, in addition to a significant increase in the volume of Arabic content pumped by content creators from various Arab countries in different fields.""The Kwai App offers advertisers opportunities of significant impact on users in terms of the timing of display of ads or the ads broadcasting process within the user-targeted content. It also enhances interaction between users and advertisers in a manner that enables advertisers to achieve a greatest return during their advertising campaign on the Kwai App with reasonable cost," Aldeeb added."Advert on Click will market the advertising spaces offered by Kwai App to its network of advertisers on the advertonclick.com platform and through its partnerships with other advertising agencies operating in the MENA region and beyond, with the aim of reaching the largest number of advertisers from different sectors and fields."According to a report released by Statista, in 2021, global spending on social media advertising amounted to nearly $116 billion, with this figure is expected to double to exceed $262 billion by 2028.In 2020, global social media advertising spending per user was $28.30, out of which $22.4 per user was spent on mobile social media advertising, with expectations that mobile advertising spending will rise to more than $33 per user by 2025.

Arabian Automobiles, the flagship company of the AWRostamani Group and the exclusive dealer for Nissan in Dubai, Sharjah, and the Northern Emirates, has announced its continued partnership with Shabab Al Ahli in its fourth consecutive year for the 2023-2024 season. Shabab Al Ahli’s remarkable title victory in the previous season, has set the stage for an exciting journey ahead.To mark the occasion, a signing ceremony under the victorious slogan “We are the champions,” which set the stage for an exciting year ahead, took place in the presence of club representatives, including H.E. Khalifa Saeed Sulaiman; Khaled Abdel Wahid Al Rostamani, the Chairman and CEO of AW Rostamani Group; the Board Members of Shabab Al Ahli Club, H.E Major General Talal Ahmed Al Shanqiti and H.E Hesham Al Qassim, and Michel Ayat CEO of Arabian Automobiles.Also in attendance were Dr. Khalid Al Zahed - Managing Director - Shabab Al Ahli Club and Majed Sultan – the Executive Director of Team Games Sector; Salah Yamout, COO of Nissan of Arabian Automobiles Company and Hussam Baghdadi, Senior Director of Arabian Automobiles Company.At its core, the partnership with Shabab Al Ahli resonates with the vision of the Dubai government to position the emirate as a leading global sports destination. It is also a testament to Arabian Automobiles’ commitment to actively support various national initiatives and organizations, with a particular focus on youth and sports.

Dubai, UAE: 21st of Nov. 2023: ESG Mena, www.esgmena.com , the first and only knowledge hub covering the emergence and development of the ESG sector in the MENA, is celebrating one year of delivering expert insights, analysis and knowledge-sharing.Founded to unite ESG stakeholders, thought leaders and innovators in the region and disseminate ESG and sustainability knowledge and practices, the company is dedicated to creating a greener and more equitable future for all. With news stories and features that investigate the most important topics of our times and cover the region's latest innovations, regulations, and business developments, ESG Mena is a comprehensive and independent knowledge hub.Its podcast, video interviews and op-eds feature some of the leading voices in sustainability and ESG, both regionally and globally, to ignite conversation, facilitate knowledge sharing and provide people, businesses, and non-profits with the tools they need to drive forward action in their communities. Further, as a result of its dedication to driving forward climate action, enhancing governance and improving ESG and sustainability literacy, ESG Mena has become the knowledge partner to top-tier events and organisations. Alongside this, ESG Mena has partnered with eminent organisations such as Reuters Events and NADB, the world's number one Arabic news application, after the launch of ESG Mena Arabic in September. As ESG MENA grows, it will continue to be the go-to source for all things ESG and sustainability in the region and will drive forward ESG literacy through supporting education. The company also shared that there are a number of exciting announcements to come in 2024. Sal Jafar, CEO, ESG Mena, commented: "Establishing the Mena's first and only ESG knowledge hub relays the leadership's vision to actively lead the globe's transformation across all metrics of environment, social and governance."Adding: "Forging an engaging ESG ecosystem, bolstering ESG literacy, widening our coverage across the Mena region and continuing to deliver world-class ESG knowledge will be our focus for 2024." 

Dubai – The Public Relations and Communications Association in the Middle East and North Africa (PRCA MENA) has today announced the full-service public relations and communications firm PR Arabia, as its latest corporate member.Based in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, PR Arabia offers media relations, social media management, influencer marketing, and event management services.Founded by professionals boasting over two decades of experience in Public Relations, PR Arabia has established itself as a leading provider of PR services in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The agency is recognized for its forward-thinking approach, commitment to client satisfaction, and a track record of exceeding client expectations.Melissa Cannon, PRCA International Director, said:"We are delighted to welcome PR Arabia as a new member. This collaboration reflects a substantial stride in bolstering the field of public relations within the Gulf Region and reflects our continued growth into Saudi Arabia and beyond. We look forward to working with the PR Arabia team and support their continued growth."Khaled Karanouh, Business Development Manager of PR Arabia, commented:"I am delighted to share that PR Arabia is now a proud member of the PRCA. With our team's experience spanning over two decades in Saudi Arabia, we are confident that we will learn from and contribute significantly to this formidable PR network in the region. We are eager to bring our insights, expertise, and drive to the PRCA community, adding immense value and fostering collaboration.”

Dubai-based broadcaster OSN is to merge its streaming platform OSN+ with streaming app Anghami after signing a conditional binding agreement. Dubai-based OSN, a subsidiary of Kuwait-listed KIPCO, will inject up to $50 million into Abu Dhabi-based Anghami for a majority stake in the app. The transaction is subject to approvals and is expected to be finalised in early 2024, a Boursa Kuwait filing from KIPCO said Tuesday. The new entity will have more than 120 million registered users, 2.5 million paying subscribers and $100 million in revenue, the companies said in a joint statement. Abu Dhabi-based Anghami received $5 million in investment from Saudi Arabia’s SRMG Ventures, the venture capital arm of Tadawul-listed Saudi Research and Media Group SJSC, in August.Anghami has a number of regional investors including Middle East Venture Partners, Mobily Ventures Holding WLL, with Shuaa Asset Management holding the largest share at 15.55% according to Refinitiv data. 

In this exclusive interview, Dr Somdutta Singh, CEO, Assiduus Global, shares her defining moments, the motivation behind becoming an angel investor, and the strategic maneuvers that led to a multi-million dollar exit at the age of 26. Delving into her investment philosophy, she unveils the personal aspects that guide her choices and offers valuable advice to aspiring angel investors. The discussion also sheds light on the patent-pending middleware developed by Assiduus and its profound impact on cross-border e-commerce distribution and supply chain. Singh reflects on the challenges faced in scaling Assiduus and the strategic measures taken to overcome them. She provides insights into Assiduus' remarkable journey, achieving over $300 million in revenue for Fortune 500 companies and SMEs across 20+ countries in 2022. Excerpts:Can you share the defining moments that led you to become an entrepreneur at such a young age?Born into a well-to-do family of doctors in Kolkata, I found inspiration from my father's friends who were marketing executives and businessmen. Witnessing their freedom and work-life balance contrasted sharply with my parents' demanding schedules, working for 36-48 hours at a stretch. Although expected to follow in my parents' medical footsteps, I chose otherwise early on, yearning for a life of choice, exploring the world and improved work-life balance. Determined to break tradition, I became the first entrepreneur in my family. During college, I took on various odd jobs to be financially independent, selling chocolates, distributing marketing flyers, and learning sewing. After completing my education in India, I pursued higher studies in the US, where I translated my experiences into my first venture: an ad-tech firm.In 2018, while scaling D2C private label brands in the US, I recognized the challenges of expanding cross borders. Understanding the uphill battle of selling online, I founded Assiduus Global to address the complex landscape of cross-border e-commerce.Guided by Swami Vivekananda's wisdom - "Take risks in your life. If you win, you can lead! If you lose, you can guide!" - I aspired not just to be a team member but a leader, pursuing my passion and bringing others along on my journey.What motivated you to become an angel investor, and how did you navigate your first multi-million dollar exit at 26?Angel investing, well not just for me, for any investor, I am sure, transcends mere financial gains; it embodies a commitment to giving back. The profound significance of this venture became palpable at the age of 26 when I encountered the reality of my first multi-million dollar exit. This achievement wasn't a business transaction that was separate; it epitomized the culmination of countless nights dedicated to analysing markets, navigating through mistakes, and absorbing invaluable lessons. Each setback became a stepping stone, setting the stage for future triumphs and enriching my journey as an investor and entrepreneur.What criteria do you consider when selecting startups to invest in, and how has your investment strategy evolved over the years?Selecting startups is deeply personal. I look for visionary leaders, innovative solutions, and the potential for genuine impact. Over the years, my investment strategy has evolved, shaped by a deeper understanding of market dynamics, a commitment to adaptability, and a passion for supporting socially responsible and sustainable ventures.Could you share a specific example of a successful investment and the key factors that contributed to its success?This one's tricky. All my investments hold a special place for me. Investments always involve spotting a startup with a unique vision, strong leadership, and a solution that filled a genuine market need. My journey has been marked by shared victories, strategic guidance, and a resilient team that faced challenges head-on, showcasing the transformative power of collaboration.What advice would you give to aspiring angel investors looking to build a successful portfolio?Build a diversified portfolio, stay informed about industry trends, cultivate a strong network, and don't shy away from calculated risks. Learn from failures, and be actively involved in the ventures you support.Can you elaborate on the patent-pending middleware developed by Assiduus and its impact on cross-border e-commerce distribution and supply chain?Assiduus Global Inc. is not just a business venture for me; it's a passion project. The patent-pending middleware is the result of a collective vision to revolutionize cross-border e-commerce. Seeing Fortune 500 corporations and international SMEs expand globally is not just a statistic; it's the tangible outcome of dedication, innovation, and a belief in transformative technology. Additionally, Assiduus Global Inc. also offers global shopify fulfillment services through their advanced end-to-end distribution and supply chain platform, powered by exclusive and patent-pending technology. In collaboration with an impressive portfolio of over 100 brands, they rank among the select few PAT-positive companies. Since its inception, the company has seen remarkable growth of over 2000% and has been ranked No. 8 in Deloitte's list of rapidly emerging tech-enabled enterprises.What challenges did you face in scaling Assiduus, and how did you overcome them?Scaling Assiduus posed funding challenges, particularly as a woman-founded business. Overcoming this hurdle involved strategic partnerships, effective fundraising efforts, and showcasing the company's potential.How did Assiduus achieve over $300 million in revenue for Fortune 500 companies and SMEs across 20+ countries in 2022?Crossing the $300-million revenue mark for Assiduus wasn't just a business milestone; it was the result of hard work from a very very resilient team, innovative technology, and a commitment to client success that's deeply personal. Our end-to-end distribution platform isn't just about transactions; it's about facilitating dreams on a global scale.With over 40 prestigious awards, which recognition holds the most personal significance for you, and why?The Champions of Change Award holds personal significance, acknowledging my commitment to social development in India. Other honours, such as being recognized among India's most influential women innovators and receiving the IEEE-UN Women Impact Entrepreneur Award, highlight the multifaceted impact of my work.

DubiCars, UAE’s fastest-growing online car market for buyers and sellers has partnered with MoEngage, a marketing automation and customer engagement platform.Established in 2014 and relaunched in 2018, DubiCars has more than 900 showroom partnerships who list their cars on the web and mobile apps. Using the capabilities of MoEngage, the brand plans to drive engagement across both these channels.“To put very simply, meaningful customer engagement in our business is one that results in leads for our clients and brand recognition for us. From a broader perspective, we want to be recognized as the one-stop-shop for all things automotive related — research, purchase, sale, news, videos, reviews and more”, said Craig Stevens, CEO, DubiCarsWith UAE being a unique market with an expat population, the online brand has been focusing on catering to a diverse audience and reaching out to communities in a tone of voice that makes sense to them. This is one of the many areas where MoEngage will help DubiCars.Additionally, with smart tools and depth of features of MoEngage, DubiCars will be able to tailor the best engagement flows. “We’re in the initial phases of campaign and flow-building but are confident that these tools will enable the right forward communication and engagement mix, in turn improving our core metrics alongside customer experience.” Craig Stevens, CEO, DubiCarsDubiCars along with MoEngage will look to improve upon sessions, leads, and listings per user. DubiCars is also expecting an accelerated usage and adoption of new features, and creating feedback loops for improved advocacy.“We are stoked to be the proud partners of DubiCars. The brand has always kept a customer-centric approach and with the help of our partnership, we further plan to strengthen it”, said  Sweta Duseja, Director of Customer Success at MoEngage.DubiCars joins the growing list of 1200+ global companies across 35 countries, such as Azadea Group, Commercial Bank of Dubai, Azadea, Jazeera Airways, Alsaif Gallery, Apparel Group, Airtel, Ola, Oyo, and Mashreq, that trust MoEngage to deliver a consistent experience across multiple devices and touchpoints. 

Under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince, Prime Minister, and the Chairman of the Human Capability Development Program Committee, one of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 Realization Programs, the first edition of the Human Capability Initiative) HCI (will be held during the period 28-29 February 2024, at King Abdulaziz International Convention Center in Riyadh.Under the theme of "Future Readiness", HCI will bring together over 6000 experts, decision makers, and more than 150 international keynote speakers from government, private and non-profit entities, and think tanks from over 50 countries to explore impactful dialogues, create synergies and seize opportunities for human capability development worldwide.HCI will focus on how to strengthen the human capability development ecosystem, promote innovative policy design and creative solutions, and showcase success stories of human capability development and its impact on economic growth. This collective effort will contribute to a sustainable global agenda that pioneers solutions for human capabilities across all age groups, and sparks initiatives that proactively anticipate the challenges of tomorrow and help shape a promising future for all.His Excellency the Minister of Education, Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Human Capability Development Program, Mr. Yousef Al-Benyan, said: "The conference is the first of its kind global cooperative platform to catalyze international collaboration, enrich global dialogue in human capability development, and contribute to the development of human skills and a prosperous global economy." He added: "the conference will discuss challenges facing human capabilities development in light of global changes, and the most important skills required in the future global labor market, in addition to the impact of rapid developments in the digital and economic fields on human capabilities".Furthermore, His Excellency stated: "Topics addressed at HCI are of vital importance in driving new conversations on shaping policy, collaboration, and private-public-third sector partnerships and investment at a global level in developing human capabilities. This will contribute to building strong and flexible economies to meet future challenges".For further details, visit HCI website: https://humancapabilityinitiative.org- HCI Website: https://humancapabilityinitiative.org- HCI social media:@HCI_KSA (Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, TikTok)HCIKSA (Facebook)

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella on Monday indicated his openness to Sam Altman rejoining OpenAI, despite an earlier announcement that Altman would join Microsoft's artificial intelligence innovation division. Nadella is fine with either option, for, he thinks that the decision ultimately rests with the OpenAI board, management, and employees. The recent upheaval at OpenAI saw Altman's abrupt firing, leading to protests from employees and the resignation of OpenAI's president, Greg Brockman. Microsoft, a significant investor in OpenAI with a $13 billion stake, announced Altman's hiring, contributing to a surge in Microsoft's stock.However, reports surfaced suggesting Altman was contemplating a return to OpenAI. Nadella underscored Microsoft's commitment to both OpenAI and Altman, irrespective of the specific configuration. He expressed the desire for Altman and Brockman to find a suitable professional home. Nadella acknowledged the need for changes in governance at OpenAI, reflecting on the fluid leadership situation. While affirming Microsoft's commitment, he hinted at the necessity for adjustments in the organization's structure.In a separate interview on Kara Swisher's "On" podcast, Nadella was non-committal about Altman potentially becoming the CEO of Microsoft in the future. He emphasized the wealth of capable individuals who could assume the CEO role at Microsoft, maintaining a cautious stance on the matter. The unfolding events underscore the intricate dynamics between OpenAI, Microsoft, and the key figures involved, hinting at potential shifts in the landscape of AI and innovation.

Dubai-based boutique marketing agency, Reach has announced that it has launched its new talent management division, offering professional and tailored representation for both local and international influencers, celebrities and personalities.Since its launch in 2022, Reach has been making waves in the industry providing PR, social media, photography and media services to brands across the region including KSA, Qatar, Lebanon and Kuwait. Coining the motto “The World’s Within Reach” the company embodies the spirit of elevating brands to their fullest potential and connects them with their ideal audiences across various lifestyle categories.Reach has kick-started the new division with the lucrative signing of ICF life coach, CBT specialist and lifestyle influencer, Lynn Laz. Boasting more than 100,000 Instagram followers, Laz uses her platform to raise awareness for important taboo topics in the Middle East including eating disorders, diet mentality, media and body image issues. Communicating in both Arabic and English the accredited life coach appeals to a mass audience, globally. Ihab Ghazal, Founder and CEO of Reach, said: “Launching our talent management arm was inevitable to take us to the next level and separate us from the start-up marketing agencies. Signing with the incredible Lynn Laz as our first talent was a perfect match as her path has been inspirational on a professional and personal level and we can’t wait to help nurture and grow her public profile. Our rapid extension plans look to develop this new sector of the company through selectively signing more talents who represent our ethos.”Lynn Laz, ICF PCC Life Coach and influencer, commented: “After working several times with Reach and seeing the fundamentals of the way they work, I was so excited to sign exclusively with them and become part of the family. I’m looking forward to a strong partnership.”

Qatar Airways, the Title Sponsor of Qatar MotoGP™, congratulated Fabio Di Giannantonio on his first victory at the MotoGP Qatar Airways Grand Prix 2023 in Doha on Sunday, 19 November. The airline extended cheerful congratulations to the second and third place winners, Francesco Bagnaia and Luca Marini respectively, celebrating their remarkable achievements on the world-class Lusail International Circuit.Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al Meer, delivered the Winning Riders Trophy to Fabio Di Giannantonio, and the Winning Constructor Award to Gresini Racing for their outstanding performance, alongside cabin crew members, in an exhilarating conclusion to the MotoGP Qatar Airways Grand Prix 2023.Qatar has recently emerged as a prominent hub for motorsport events, hosting an impressive array of international racing competitions and shows. Its state-of-the-art facilities, including the world-renowned Lusail International Circuit, have made Qatar a magnificent destination for motorsport enthusiasts and professionals alike. The country has committed to investing in cutting-edge infrastructure and help fans travel to the country via Qatar Airways’ extensive network of over 160 destinations. The airline’s unique and exclusive travel packages, and its award winning-hub, Hamad International Airport, have positioned Qatar as a prime destination for Formula 1®, MotoGP, and various motorsport events.

Spica Media Intelligence and Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. have unveiled a groundbreaking media partnership at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre during the World Media Congress. This collaboration represents a significant advancement in media technology, with a focus on television broadcasting quality monitoring.Key highlights of the partnership and featured technology include:1. Media Cooperation:The collaboration aims to promote media cooperation at the World Media Congress, concentrating on presenting cutting-edge technology in television broadcasting quality monitoring. This technology, developed by Spica Media Intelligence, is showcased through Huawei's "Broadcast quality control system."2. Technology Display:Huawei will showcase Spica's advanced technology, highlighting innovation in television broadcasting quality monitoring. The "Broadcast quality control system" streamlines the monitoring and recording process of signal strength and broadcast quality for television channels transmitted via satellite or OTT platforms.3. Achievement for Regional Companies:Spica's CEO, Mr. Bahaa Qasim, sees this partnership as a significant achievement for regional companies, demonstrating their ability to develop advanced technologies recognized by international giants like Huawei.4. Real-Time Monitoring:The Spica-developed system enables real-time monitoring and recording of signal strength and broadcast quality, facilitating quick reactions to interruptions. Automatic alert messages are sent during interruptions, making it a crucial tool for media institutions and regulatory agencies.5. Enhancing Media Quality:The system is considered an effective tool for improving the quality of services provided by media institutions. It supports regulatory agencies in monitoring the media with ease, professionalism, and high accuracy, helping them achieve their objectives in the media sector.6. Database and Reports:The system provides a substantial database for generating diverse, comprehensive, and informative reports. This feature aids in making informed decisions based on variables in the world of television broadcasting and OTT platforms.7. Weather-Resistant Devices:Utilizing devices secured against weather conditions, the system ensures service continuity unaffected by prevailing weather conditions. This enhances the reliability and continuity of monitoring services.8. MediaInsight360:In addition to the partnership announcement, Spica introduced "MediaInsight360" at the Gulf International Information Technology Exhibition (GITEX). This innovative service in comprehensive media monitoring is showcased on its platform during the World Media Congress.The collaboration between Spica Media Intelligence and Huawei symbolizes the synergy between regional expertise and global technology giants, contributing to advancements in media monitoring and broadcasting quality control.

A record number of visitors experienced the largest and most successful edition of the region’s largest international trade fair for the beauty and wellness industry at Beautyworld Middle East 2023. Organisers Messe Frankfurt Middle East have revealed the highest number of attendance and participation numbers for this year's Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) event which took place between 30th October – 1st November 2023.Held across 15 halls, with awards, competitions, conference insights and the ultimate opportunity for local and international suppliers, brands, businesses and beauty professionals to network and explore, Beautyworld Middle East 2023, has again cemented its position as the region’s biggest, and globally significant industry trade show by increasing visitor numbers by over 23% on the previous year, welcoming over 65,000 people over the three day event.The growth in international participation from both visitors and exhibitors highlights the GCC region as a significant growth driver in the global beauty and wellbeing industry with the MEA’s beauty and personal care market projected to reach $47 billion by McKinsey & Company by 2027, the region is attracting interest from key industry players around the world“Again, Beautyworld Middle East has proven itself as the industry's chosen chosen platform for connection, inspiration and global trade opportunities” said Flyn Roberts, Portfolio Director at Messe Frankfurt Middle East, organisers of Beautyworld Middle East 2023 “ Visitor numbers this year have surpassed even our own projections, and it is especially encouraging to witness the growth in international participation, with a 33% increase in attendees from the Asia Pacific region and 28% from both the Americas and the GCC. A combination of quality, insight, opportunities and a global interest in the Middle East as a key industry driver for products, services and innovation motivates us towards delivering bigger and better shows in future editions of Beautyworld Middle East” continued Roberts.International participation across all show sectors has proven fruitful for those exhibiting from across the world, with those keen to enter the regional market as a key driver .Riding the wave of interest in Korean beauty, 37 companies participated through the Gyeonggi Province Economic and Science Promotion Agency and enjoyed 597 consultations (USD 13.72 million) and 523 contract promotions (worth USD 9.293 million).Tamara Bakir, CEO and Co-founder of US based Manifest Cosmetics chose Beautyworld Middle East for the company’s regional launch - she says “ The show has been an incredible experience for Manifest Beauty, the opportunity to introduce our products to the local market, receive feedback and research from peers and professionals from around the world has been amazing”Pakistan based Soneri Care exhibited alongside 35 other companies from the country. Marketing Manager Bisma Khan said “Meeting our clients from many different countries at Beautyworld Middle East and introductions to new markets are the highlight for us, and presents great business opportunities - we hope to participate again for years to come”Beautyworld Middle East included pavilions from Pakistan, China, Italy, Japan, Korea, Turkiye, the United Kingdom, the United States and others countries that showcased fragrances, cosmetics and skincare, beauty tech, personal care and hygiene, hair, nail and packaging products and services.Show highlights included the return of the Next in Beauty Conference with a keynote by Emirati skincare entrepreneur Salama Mohamed, the Front Row by Nazih Group stage saw engaging and entertaining demonstrations from global educators and artists across hair, skincare, nails and beyond, alongside the Nail It! competition. A chance to celebrate the top people and products of the beauty and wellness industry was held at the Beautyworld Middle East Awards, held on day two of the exhibition in a gala event, having received over 500 nominations across 16 categories for 2023, seeing Ali Asgar Fakhruddin, CEO of Sterling Perfume Industries recognised for his lifetime achievement across his 40 year career in the regional fragrance industry.The opportunity to become the ‘Signature Scent’ of the 2024 show saw 15 international fragrance houses take part in the annual competition where visitor votes were counted to crown Jean-François Thizon, Perfumer at Parfex the winner with his unique ‘Golden Light’ selected as the official scent for Beautyworld Middle East.Beautyworld Middle East attendees are promised an unparalleled opportunity to expand professional networks, discover new products and unlock the tremendous business potential in one of the world’s key trade hubs. The 28th edition will be held at DWTC from October 28th to 30th, 2024.

In light of growing environmental concern driven by extreme weather, new research from Bain & Company shows more than 60% of businesses in the GCC region are currently off track to achieve their sustainability goals. The study emphasizes the pivotal role of technology, policy, and behavior change in achieving sustainable practices. An increasingly environmentally conscious base of consumers and employees in the GCC may prove instrumental in steering business towards their sustainability targets.Bain & Company published in November a major new study exploring the top sustainability concerns for business leaders, their customers, and their employees.“With the upcoming global focus on the region with COP 28 and the potential implications from this critical gathering, it is critical the CEO’s and Sustainability Plans in the corporate sector take centre stage in the next phase of the world’s transition. Our global report on the topic is grounded on the philosophy of Visionary Pragmatism in this path for executives to adopt as they are navigating taking the global ambitions and translating them into the day-to-day functioning of their respective companies” said Akram Alami, Middle East Partner at Bain & Company.To get a broad sense of environmental concerns around the world, Bain surveyed 23,000 consumers. The results underscore the growing urgency of sustainability topics. Some 64% of people reported high levels of concern about sustainability. Most said their worries have intensified over the past two years and that their concern was first prompted by extreme weather. Surprising truths about consumersBain’s research reveals several surprising truths about consumers, dispelling some common misperceptions. Among them, the ideas that consumers won’t pay more for sustainable products and that consumer behavior is fixed. Baby boomers are often just as concerned as Gen Z. Many companies have long viewed younger consumers as more focused on sustainability than their older counterparts, but the reality is not as clear-cut. For example, 72% of Gen Z consumers and 68% of boomers globally are very or extremely concerned about the environment, but in countries as diverse as India, France, and Japan, boomers are more concerned. Consumers are recommending brands if they are supporting social causes. As concerns grow, consumers are looking to make environmentally sound choices - 82% of consumers in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa are likely to recommend a brand after learning that it supports a social cause. Consumer behavior can change more quickly than many companies anticipate, with external factors such as government regulation heavily influencing the market. China began offering financial incentives on electric vehicles in 2009; now 19% of Chinese consumers report driving an electric car, compared with 8% of consumers globally. In England, the use of single-use supermarket plastic bags has fallen 98% since the government began requiring retailers to charge for them in 2015. Similarly, in the UAE, the recent imposition of charges on plastic bags in supermarkets has swiftly prompted a notable reduction in their usage, showcasing the significant impact of government initiatives on shaping consumer behavior. There is a disconnect between what consumers want and what most companies sell. Worldwide, 48% of consumers consider how products are used when thinking about sustainability. These consumers are more concerned about how a product can be reused, its durability, and how it will minimize waste. In contrast, most companies sell sustainable goods based on factors such as how they are made, their natural ingredients, and the farming practices deployed. These factors cause many consumers to conflate “sustainable” with “premium.” One result of this disconnect: Nearly half of all developed-market consumers believe that living sustainably is too expensive. By comparison, roughly 35% of consumers in fast-growing markets believe this.Consumers struggle to identify sustainable products and don’t trust corporations to make them. In Bain’s survey, 50% of consumers said sustainability is one of their top four key purchase criteria when shopping. Yet they may be making decisions based on misconceptions. When asked to determine which of two given products generated higher carbon emissions, consumers were wrong or didn’t know about 75% of the time. Consumers say they rely most on labels and certifications to identify sustainable products, yet most were unable to accurately describe the meaning behind common sustainability logos, such as organic production or Fairtrade. A lack of trust in corporations compounds the issue. Bain found only 28% of consumers trust large corporations to create genuinely sustainable products, compared to 45% who trust small, independent businesses.Four critical areas of focus for companiesThe momentum behind sustainability and dynamic shifts in consumer behavior have profound implications for any company. Bain sees four critical areas of focus.Devise a future-proof and flexible strategy. Few companies plan beyond the typical 3-year strategic planning window, and even those that do look out 5 to 10 years tend to focus on expectations for technology adoption. These plans fail to fully consider two other factors that move just as rapidly and with as big an impact: regulations and consumer behavior.Acknowledge a fragmented consumer base. Companies need to deaverage consumers and innovate products and design propositions that appeal to different segments— local markets, consumers with different definitions of sustainability, and consumers with a range of purchasing motivations.Test and learn to determine what works—and repeat. In such a fluid environment, companies can lean aggressively on marketing experimentation, using digital tools to quickly test the sustainability messages that resonate with different segments and adapt accordingly. It’s a way to help consumers gain enough clarity to make decisions that are consistent with their values.Get out in front of regulations. As we’ve seen throughout the world, government policy inevitably becomes a huge contributor to changing consumer behavior. Across all industries, companies need to be at the forefront of helping to shape the regulations affecting their business. A company’s ability to anticipate policy shifts and build future-proof portfolios will help determine whether it can outpace competitors.Upskilling employees to rise to the challengeBain found 75% of business leaders believe they have not embedded sustainability well into their business. The instinct of many CEOs is to prioritize external hiring to address all skill gaps, including in sustainability. Bain advocates for addressing sustainability’s challenges through a combination of smart upskilling and cultivating a learning mindset.A new Bain survey of 4,700 people found 63% felt different skills and behaviors would be required for their company to execute on its ESG ambition or strategy. Yet only 45% of nonmanagers said their employer offers the reskilling and upskilling opportunities that would enable internal mobility.Despite almost every CEO saying they have a talent problem, few companies have defined what it means to be a great employer. In Bain’s recent survey, 44% of respondents said it is easier to find a better opportunity outside of their company than within it.Bain is leading by example on this cause. The firm has committed to cultivating a growth mindset in its team, partnering with 12 world-class universities—including MIT, HEC Paris, and Melbourne Business School—to upskill its employees on ESG. To date, its consultants have completed over 17,000 hours of ESG training through the program. 

Beirut, Lebanon: Mastercard has entered a long-term strategic collaboration with areeba, a leading payment processing service provider in the Middle East, to bring new Mastercard Card-as-a-Service (CaaS) and Bank-as-a-Fintech (BaaF) propositions to their markets.The enablement program will provide Mastercard products and services to fintech companies and non-banking financial institutions by building ready-to-market hubs in selected Arab countries, spanning from Levant to North Africa. “Our partnership with Mastercard will provide new market segments and demographics access to Mastercard products, services, and relevant benefits. These will be available as light-touch, off-the-shelf propositions with subscription and pay-as-you-grow pricing scheme that can be launched in weeks instead of months. We are proud to contribute to advancing payment solutions in the countries where we operate, and in partnership with Mastercard,” said Maher Mikati, CEO, Areeba. “At Mastercard, we view payment modernization as one of the top priorities in providing market-ready services and platforms that help deliver innovative offerings to consumers. We streamline dependencies by offering out-of-the-box digital solutions that can be implemented at a fast pace and following local regulations and compliance mandates. With its strong technical capabilities and digital-ready enablement, areeba is our ideal strategic processing services partner in the Arab world,” said Gaurang Shah, Executive Vice President, Product and Engineering, Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa, Mastercard. This partnership will bring unprecedented benefits to a wide range of stakeholders. Financial institutions will be able to introduce new products to the market without worrying about any technology and business operations readiness. Fintech companies can expect faster time to market by solving obstacles of BIN sponsorship and Mastercard digital first issuing assets access, through Areeba. Meanwhile, consumers will enjoy easy access to bundled digital financial products, such as youth and family banking. This collaboration also extends its support to governments by assisting with on-soil mandates and serving the community by launching new products aimed at enhancing financial wellness and educational apps for the young generation. It creates a one-stop shop for such services.

Homegrown UAE fitness brand, GymNation, has proudly announced a management-led buyout of all equity held by previous investor, JD Gyms. The deal, backed by Tricap Investments and Ruya Partners, sees the GymNation founders and management team, Loren Holland, Frank Afeaki and Anthony Martland, become significant majority shareholders in the business they founded back in 2017.Tricap Investments is a diversified principal investment group with offices in Washington D.C. and Dubai, specialising in the execution of both direct and fund investments, and private equity transactions.Ruya Partners is an independent private credit firm based in Abu Dhabi whose investor base includes institutional funds from the GCC including UAE sovereign-backed Abu Dhabi Catalyst Partners, a joint venture between Mubadala Capital and Alpha Wave Global, and Jada Fund of Funds, a subsidiary of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF).Since its launch, GymNation has delivered on its mission of making fitness more affordable and accessible for the UAE population, and has rapidly grown from a single gym start-up into the UAE’s leading gym operator with 12 gyms and over 60,000 members.Having been voted “The Best Gym in the UAE” on Virgin Radio’s The Kris Fade Show for the last 2 years running, and with over 40,000 five-star Google reviews, GymNation have cemented their position within the UAE as “The People’s Gym” and are now set to replicate this success across the GCC.Loren Holland, Founder & CEO, GymNation commented; “This management buyout is another exciting chapter for GymNation, and with the support and backing of Tricap Investments and Ruya Partners we are perfectly positioned to accelerate the growth of GymNation across the GCC. Within the coming weeks, we will be announcing our first six Saudi Arabian locations, a further four more UAE sites, as well as company formations in Qatar, Bahrain and Kuwait. GymNation has pioneered the democratisation of health and fitness across the UAE, which prior to our launch was recognised as the 2nd most expensive market in the world to own a gym membership. Now it’s time for us to have the same impact across other GCC markets.”The innovative structure of the deal has allowed GymNation to launch a trailblazing Equity Incentivisation Scheme for the wider management team, aimed at attracting and retaining world-class talent, through rewarding, incentivising and aligning, key members of the team with direct equity in the business.Frank Afeaki commented; “On the day of signing the deal, 15 GymNation management team members also signed their own documentation to become shareholders in the business, I am proud that we are able to reward the team in a way that no others within the industry do and have them as shareholders alongside myself, Loren and Ant.”Ant Martland added: “We have an exceptional management team, supported by significant ongoing investments into key technology and systems that are going to place GymNation at the forefront of the fitness industry. It’s still very early days in our growth story, and the whole team couldn’t be more excited, and motivated, to rollout GymNation across the region.”The management team were advised by James Wigglesworth at Orca Capital (Corporate Finance) who will also join the board as a Non-Executive Director at completion, DLA Piper (Legal), Tatsu Partners (Debt Advisory) and PwC (Financial, Tax and Commercial Vendor Due Diligence).

Dubai:– Dusit Thani Dubai proudly announces the appointment of Ms. Esther Openio as the hotel's new Human Resources Manager. With a distinguished career and proven expertise in human resources, Ms. Openio brings a wealth of experience to the team, positioning her as a pivotal asset in steering the hotel's HR strategies towards success.Ms. Openio’s professional journey boasts notable achievements in fostering positive company culture and spearheading talent acquisition and development initiatives. Her proficiency spans various HR domains, including talent acquisition, performance management, and employee engagement, aligning seamlessly with Dusit Thani Dubai's commitment to cultivating a positive work environment.With a career spanning renowned hospitality chains including Marriott, Millennium, Accor, and Rotana Hotels, Ms. Openio brings a wealth of experience to the field of Hospitality. Her adept skills have consistently manifested in the creation of environments that harmonize HR strategies with overarching business objectives.In alignment with Dusit Thani Dubai's commitment to sustainability and employee well-being, Ms. Openio's appointment is part of the hotel's ongoing efforts supported by Dusit International's Tree of Life Program. This program reflects the hotel's dedication to fostering a nurturing and sustainable work environment.Expressing enthusiasm about Openio’s appointment, Mr. Kishore Sathar, Director of Operations at Dusit Thani Dubai, remarked, "We are thrilled to welcome Ms. Esther Openio as our new Human Resources Manager. Her wealth of experience and impressive track record make her the ideal candidate to lead our HR initiatives and contribute to the overall success of Dusit Thani Dubai." Ms. Openio's arrival signifies a strategic move for the hotel, emphasizing its ongoing commitment to prioritize the development and well-being of its diverse workforce.

Dubai, UAE: Mastercard’s Borderless Payments Report 2023 reveals that 48% of people in the UAE expect to send cross-border payments more frequently in the next 12 months, while 36% are likely to receive more cross-border payments in the same period.Globally, the report indicates that two in five (40%) senders and half of receivers intend to use cross-border payments more frequently over the same period, while approximately half plan to increase the value of their transactions.The findings from Mastercard’s third Borderless Payments Report draw on the views of over 11,000 consumers and small businesses across 15 markets in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia.The report results show that lower fees, speed and a simple process are the key factors for people in the UAE when choosing a brand or company to use for cross-border payments. According to the report, over half (53%) of respondents in the country said lower fees for sending and receiving money were crucial, while 52% expressed a preference for delivering funds quickly, and 41% were seeking a simple remittance process.“The UAE is home to a sophisticated community of consumers and businesses that rely on cross-border payments to support their everyday needs. Our latest findings show that these payments continue to play a vital role for many across the country, with our research highlighting the importance of affordability and speed to those we serve. We remain committed to leveraging our advanced portfolio of solutions to provide the UAE population with fast, seamless, cost-effective and secure remittance services,” said Gina Petersen-Skyrme, VP and Country Business Development Lead, UAE & Oman, Mastercard.At a time when digital transformation and the digitization of financial services has placed an emphasis on greater security, 33% of UAE respondents stressed the importance of keeping personal information secure, while 24% called for fraud protections to be in place.In terms of the growth of the small and medium enterprise (SME) sector in the UAE, the research also reveals that 80% of SMEs in the country are actively planning to do more international business in the future. The majority – 96% – of small businesses are using more international suppliers and services than they were 12 months ago.Notably, 82% of SMEs in the UAE use an app to make cross-border payments — the fourth-highest percentage across the markets surveyed. This number shows the highest growth among all countries participating in the research – up 27% compared to 2021.Mastercard’s technology and innovative solutions enable its customers to move money and data quickly and securely, both domestically and internationally. The company’s suite of remittance-related products enables payments using its global network to be delivered to bank accounts, digital and mobile wallets, cards and cash-out locations across more than 180 countries and 150 currencies. In total, these services provide senders with access to more than 90% of the world's banked population and in near real time to more than 50 markets.The full Mastercard Borderless Payments Report 2023 is available here.

DUBAI: Dubai Chamber of Commerce, one of the three chambers operating under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers, has achieved significant growth in memberships during 2023. A total of 48,616 new member companies registered between January and September this year, representing an impressive year-over-year (YoY) increase of 42.9% compared to the 34,029 that joined during the corresponding period in 2022.The strong growth underlines Dubai’s attractiveness among both companies and investors, as well as the emirate’s growing reputation as a leading global business destination. This was also reflected in the total value of exports and re-exports of member companies, which reached a total of AED 210 billion with 544,538 certificates of origin issued from Q1 - Q3 2023.In addition, 3,209 ATA Carnets were issued and received for goods and commodities with a combined value of AED 3.3 billion during the nine-month period, compared to 2,919 ATA Carnets with a value of around AED 1.5 billion during Q1 - Q3 2022. The value of ATA Carnets received recorded a remarkable YoY growth of 123.6%.Commenting on the chamber’s strong performance, Abdul Aziz Abdulla Al Ghurair, Chairman of Dubai Chambers, said: “I am delighted to see Dubai Chamber of Commerce making headway in improving Dubai’s favourable business environment, enhancing its advocacy efforts, and supporting our members to thrive while driving the export and re-export market. We are the voice of the business community in Dubai and remain committed to empowering our members to contribute towards achieving the emirate’s growth ambitions. We will continue to work in tandem with the government as we advance on our journey towards the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33).”As part of its continuous efforts to support the interests of the business community, Dubai Chamber of Commerce reviewed a total of 94 draft laws in cooperation with Business Groups during the first nine months of the year. The number of mediation cases received by the chamber reached 103.The chamber’s Business Relations Department arranged over 180 meetings with representatives from Business Groups and Councils between January and September, including 20 advocacy sessions aimed at shaping Dubai’s favourable business environment. The department also successfully organised 41 Annual General Assembly events for Business Groups and Councils. More than 2,100 attendees benefited from 24 workshops, events, and webinars organised by the department. In addition, a total of 103 meetings were held with key stakeholders and partners to explore opportunities to serve the business community.As part of its efforts to achieve its strategic priority of improving the business environment in the emirate, Dubai Chamber of Commerce also launched the ‘Business Sectors Platform,’ which offers an innovative package of services designed to empower Business Groups and Business Councils and enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of their activities.The Dubai Centre for Family Business, which was established in May with the goal of ensuring the growth and sustainability of family businesses in the emirate, has successfully launched a number of programmes and initiatives. By the end of Q3 2023, the centre had completed 30 family visits and rolled out two educational certification programmes for family members and advisors. A total of 18 advisors enrolled in the Family Business Advisory certification programme during this period. The centre also concluded two sessions in its Governance Series programme with the participation of 62 family business representatives. In addition, the centre recorded more than 450 downloads of education toolkits and publications between May and the end of September.Dubai Chamber of Commerce seeks to facilitate and improve the ease of doing business in the emirate, while delivering value-added services and serving as a bridge between Dubai’s dynamic business community and the government. A total of 46 country-specific Business Councils and 105 sector-specific Business Groups currently operate under the chamber’s umbrella.

Houda Tohme has had a remarkable 22-year career in media and marketing, with her journey at Havas Media Middle East beginning in 2006. Over the years, she has demonstrated unwavering dedication and passion in her field of expertise. Notably, she has played a pivotal role in the impressive growth of Havas Media, leading the planning team with pride. Throughout her career, she has worked with prestigious brands such as Chanel, Puig, Coty, and Kia.In 2019, Houda Tohme achieved the position of Managing Director and later assumed the role of CEO at Havas Media, marking more than 13 years of invaluable service with the group. As an integral member of the management team, she oversees the media operations across the region. Her leadership reinforces the agency's mission to bring people and brands together through meaningful connections.In this exclusive interview with Adgully Middle East, Houda Tohme, CEO of Havas Media, reflects on her journey with the company and sheds light on the significant progress made by women in the Middle East. Her rise from leading the planning team to the highest executive positions is a testament to her commitment and substantial contributions to the company's growth. Excerpts:Could you please describe your professional journey and share what or who inspired you to reach your current position?In 2002, my media journey started in Dubai as a media planner. Over the years, I've worked with diverse clients, ranging from FMCG giants to luxury brands. I began as a Media Manager at Havas with a team of no more than 10 people. I was able to play an active role in growing the agency into a team of 250+ professionals across five GCC markets, making us one of the top five agencies in the region.I am very fortunate to be part of an organization that doesn’t just recognize the dedication of its employees but actively nurtures their potential. This approach not only motivates the workforce but also demonstrates the agency's commitment to fostering individual growth and empowering each team member to achieve their utmost potential.In your role as CEO of Havas Media, what are your main responsibilities, and what can you tell us about your experience with the organization over the years?My priority has always been and will always be my team, the heart and soul of our organization. We take pride in our unique culture rooted in integrity, transparency, and collaboration. I lead a skilled team, many of whom have been with us for over a decade, seamlessly embodying our values. I focus on business development for growth and client retention, highlighted by the most recent successful partnerships like Nakheel, Aujan, and LG Electronics. And I also oversee refining our product, and ensuring it stays ahead of the curve across the region.What are your thoughts on women's empowerment in the Middle East, and how have you observed changes in this regard over the past decade?The region has made significant progress in promoting women's rights and opportunities for their advancement. The UAE serves as an exemplary model for women's empowerment for the entire Middle East. With a strong belief in the pivotal role of women in society, the UAE boasts a thriving community of women entrepreneurs who own thousands of businesses valued at AED60 billion1. Women in the UAE also occupy two-thirds of public sector positions, including 30% in senior leadership roles2, and an increasing number in ministerial roles.Remarkably, since 2018, Saudi Arabia has implemented substantial changes to champion the empowerment of women in the kingdom as part of the overarching societal reforms undertaken for vision 2030. Moreover, the percentage of Saudi adults actively participating in the economy has risen to 51.5%, with more than two million men and women now engaged in the private sector3. The first Arab woman to go on a space mission is a Saudi national, further highlighting KSA’s commitment to breaking new frontiers and advancing gender equality. These developments underscore the broader recognition of women's contributions throughout the Middle East and I believe we should all be proud of that.Being a media expert, what can you say about the new media marketing strategies adopted by Havas in the UAE?Our distinguished ‘village model’ is fundamentally client centric with creativity, innovation, and agility serving as the core pillars of our offering. This unique model allows us to offer tailored, flexible solutions based on our clients' ever-changing needs. It fosters an environment of collaboration and versatility, enabling us to bring together diverse talents and disciplines to solve a wide range of challenges for our clients. We are constantly evolving to stay at the forefront of the industry, embracing new solutions and approaches while staying true to our creative roots.Havas Media is recognized as one of the most successful communication companies. What distinguishes Havas Media from its competitors?At Havas Media, our reputation as a leading communications agency is rooted in an organizational culture that not only places our talented team at the core, but also creates an environment where individuals can truly thrive. This culture fosters a sense of innovation and collaboration, providing our passionate team the foundation and tools to thrive. It's this exceptional team, many of whom have been with us for over a decade, that serves as the cornerstone of our achievements.Furthermore, our forward-thinking approach ensures we stay ahead of the curve. We have a strong core product which is centered around building meaningful media experiences for consumers. In the recent years, we have expanded the breadth of our offer by bringing in new capabilities in commerce, content, and data. With our Havas market practice expanding into the Middle East, we're equipped to guide clients through the complexities and intricacies of the commerce ecosystem. We are actively enhancing our data offering and expanding our content pillar to anticipate and meet evolving client needs. This helps us create stickier and deeper relationships with our key partners.Can you provide details about a campaign that posed significant challenges but ultimately achieved great success?The Adidas Liquid Billboard campaign was an integral initiative that really stood out for us. This campaign is a testament to the power of collaboration, bringing together versatile talents across our village to solve a challenge facing the women of the region. We needed to go beyond conventional and create something truly ground-breaking. The outcome was the world’s first swimmable billboard, a bold and innovative concept that not only captured the attention of our target audience but also made a significant impact globally. It earned us, and the Middle East, one of only three Cannes Lion Grand Prix awards in the region's history while sparking discussions about body positivity and inclusivity in swimming.This campaign also demonstrated our passion about not just reaching audiences but also about creating meaningful and lasting difference to the people and the brands we work with.As an accomplished media professional, what advice would you offer to newcomers in the field on how to achieve success in their careers?In my journey as a media professional, I’ve learned that success in advertising and marketing goes beyond the perceived glamour and excitement of the industry. My foremost advice to those starting out is to ensure your career choice aligns with your interests and personal values. While it offers a dynamic and creative work environment, it is equally demanding and can be stressful.Pursuing a career merely for the sake of having a job can lead to demotivation and burnout. Therefore, it becomes important to carve a path that truly speaks to your passions and strengths, as motivation and a deep-seated commitment are crucial for navigating the demanding aspects of this industry and ultimately achieving success.What are your views about the statement ‘women can be better media experts as communication is their forte’?The notion that 'women can be better media experts because communication is their forte' is an interesting perspective, but it's important to approach such generalizations with caution. While it's true that many women excel in communication skills, attributing a specific skill set to an entire gender can be overly simplistic and overlooks the individual talents and capabilities of each person, regardless of gender. In my view, expertise in media and communication is not gender-specific but a result of individual talent, experience, and hard work. Both men and women can be equally skilled and effective in these roles. At Havas, we focus on harnessing the unique strengths and perspectives of each team member, fostering a diverse and inclusive environment where talent thrives, irrespective of gender.Where do you envision Houda Tohme in 2033? What goals or aspirations still linger on your professional bucket list, even with the numerous achievements you've attained?Looking ahead to 2033, I envision myself continuing to make a meaningful impact, not only in the media industry but in the broader advertising and marketing sector within our region. In an industry driven by human ingenuity and relationships, our actions hold the power to instigate subtle yet impactful changes. My aim is to cultivate environments that emphasize and prioritize collaboration, transparency, and ethics. I intend to actively participate in shaping a more positive and sustainable future, where human welfare is paramount.

Concerns over the proliferation of antisemitic content and discussions on the social media platform X have intensified, reaching a critical point with advertisers like Apple Inc. pulling out their ads. Musk, who actively interacts with antisemitic users on X, endorsed a post asserting that Jewish people have a "dialectical hatred" of white individuals, to which he responded, "You have said the actual truth."The White House termed Musk's response as "unacceptable," emphasizing its potential threat to Jewish communities. Shareholders of Tesla Inc., where Musk serves as CEO, have also voiced concerns, with some calling for his suspension.The controversy follows a report from Media Matters revealing advertisements from major companies, including IBM, Oracle, Apple, Bravo and Comcast's Xfinity, appearing alongside pro-Nazi content on X. IBM was quick to suspend ads on the platform until the situation is addressed.In response to the backlash, the European Commission, Lions Gate Entertainment Corp., Paramount Global, Walt Disney Co., and Warner Bros. Discovery Inc. have all announced the withdrawal of their ads from X. The Anti-Defamation League reported a surge in antisemitism on X, increasing by over 900% in the week following the October 7 attack by Hamas.Musk has courted controversies in the past, including a satirical tweet comparing Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to Adolf Hitler. Some stakeholders, like Ross Gerber of Gerber Kawasaki Inc., have expressed concern that Musk's actions are detrimental to the brand and overall reputation of his companies.Apple, a major advertiser on X, announced a pause in showing ads on X, reflecting the precarious nature of their relationship with Musk, who took over the platform last year. Musk's remarks coincide with a global rise in antisemitism and Islamophobia amid the Israel-Hamas conflict.In the midst of this, Musk accused the Anti-Defamation League of undermining X's ad revenue by highlighting extremist content, contributing to a 60% decline in ad sales on the platform. The EC cited an alarming increase in disinformation and hate speech as a reason for staff to stop advertising on X.Despite X's efforts to address offensive content and label sensitive media, the controversy has triggered widespread concerns about the impact of Musk's statements on the brands associated with the platform. Shareholders and advocacy groups are calling for a response, ranging from censure to potential removal of Musk from his positions.

Dubai Chamber of Commerce, one of the three chambers operating under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers, has achieved significant growth in memberships during 2023. A total of 48,616 new member companies registered between January and September this year, representing an impressive year-over-year (YoY) increase of 42.9% compared to the 34,029 that joined during the corresponding period in 2022.The strong growth underlines Dubai’s attractiveness among both companies and investors, as well as the emirate’s growing reputation as a leading global business destination. This was also reflected in the total value of exports and re-exports of member companies, which reached a total of AED 210 billion with 544,538 certificates of origin issued from Q1 - Q3 2023.In addition, 3,209 ATA Carnets were issued and received for goods and commodities with a combined value of AED 3.3 billion during the nine-month period, compared to 2,919 ATA Carnets with a value of around AED 1.5 billion during Q1 - Q3 2022. The value of ATA Carnets received recorded a remarkable YoY growth of 123.6%.Commenting on the chamber’s strong performance, H.E. Abdul Aziz Abdulla Al Ghurair, Chairman of Dubai Chambers, said: “I am delighted to see Dubai Chamber of Commerce making headway in improving Dubai’s favourable business environment, enhancing its advocacy efforts, and supporting our members to thrive while driving the export and re-export market. We are the voice of the business community in Dubai and remain committed to empowering our members to contribute towards achieving the emirate’s growth ambitions. We will continue to work in tandem with the government as we advance on our journey towards the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33).”As part of its continuous efforts to support the interests of the business community, Dubai Chamber of Commerce reviewed a total of 94 draft laws in cooperation with Business Groups during the first nine months of the year. The number of mediation cases received by the chamber reached 103.The chamber’s Business Relations Department arranged over 180 meetings with representatives from Business Groups and Councils between January and September, including 20 advocacy sessions aimed at shaping Dubai’s favourable business environment. The department also successfully organised 41 Annual General Assembly events for Business Groups and Councils. More than 2,100 attendees benefited from 24 workshops, events, and webinars organised by the department. In addition, a total of 103 meetings were held with key stakeholders and partners to explore opportunities to serve the business community.As part of its efforts to achieve its strategic priority of improving the business environment in the emirate, Dubai Chamber of Commerce also launched the ‘Business Sectors Platform,’ which offers an innovative package of services designed to empower Business Groups and Business Councils and enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of their activities.The Dubai Centre for Family Business, which was established in May with the goal of ensuring the growth and sustainability of family businesses in the emirate, has successfully launched a number of programmes and initiatives. By the end of Q3 2023, the centre had completed 30 family visits and rolled out two educational certification programmes for family members and advisors. A total of 18 advisors enrolled in the Family Business Advisory certification programme during this period. The centre also concluded two sessions in its Governance Series programme with the participation of 62 family business representatives. In addition, the centre recorded more than 450 downloads of education toolkits and publications between May and the end of September.Dubai Chamber of Commerce seeks to facilitate and improve the ease of doing business in the emirate, while delivering value-added services and serving as a bridge between Dubai’s dynamic business community and the government. A total of 46 country-specific Business Councils and 105 sector-specific Business Groups currently operate under the chamber’s umbrella.

VisitBritain, the national tourism agency for Great Britain, invites travellers from the Gulf Corporation Council (GCC) countries to ‘Come see things differently’ by showcasing more exciting and unexpected experiences only found in Britain.Underway from November until early 2024, the campaign uses a mix of inspiring destination content and short films showcasing Britain's 'wild coastlines’, drawing attention to seaside locations within a few hours' reach of major city centres, 'countryside adventures', promoting its diverse landscapes and 'vibrant cities’, highlighting Britain’s bustling urban life and contemporary culture. The campaign has been developed based on VisitBritain’s research into motivations for travel now, with discovering new and surprising experiences high on the wish list for its target audiences and markets.The campaign is a progression from VisitBritain’s ‘Spilling the tea on Great Britain’ campaign which was launched earlier in 2023 and encouraged visitors to explore more of Great Britain’s nations and regions especially during non-peak travel seasons.VisitBritain’s Deputy Director APMEA CNEA, Carol Madisson said:“The GCC is an incredibly important tourism market for Britain and we are delighted to launch this new phase of our major brand campaign, to drive urgency for GCC travellers to visit now, while showcasing the breadth of exciting experiences and destinations across Britain. Whether it's the thrill of coastal and countryside adventures, such as riding the waves on our wild coastlines, or relaxing in remote landscapes, or exploring our bustling, vibrant cities through street art tours, indulgent afternoon teas and shopping sprees, our campaign shows that Britain has so much to explore.As well as inspiring international visitors to discover more of Britain’s nations and regions we’re working with industry partners in the GCC to convert that desire to visit into confirmed bookings for travel now. Through this campaign we look forward to welcoming more visitors from the Gulf to experience Britain’s exciting tourism offers well into 2024 and beyond.”An integral part of the ‘Come See Things Differently’ campaign is its advertising elements that use an integrated mix of channels including cinema in Saudi Arabia, branded content across social media including Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat, and digital billboards along high-traffic areas such as Sheikh Zayed Road in Dubai.Additionally, VisitBritain will continue to work with its premier trade partner Wego to expand the campaign's reach throughout 2024 and encourage travel bookings for the upcoming winter and spring seasons.The recent introduction of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme, combined with the region’s strong airline connections to the UK, is set to further enhance the ease of travel for GCC nationals visiting Britain. The ETA will cost £10 and allow visitors to visit the UK multiple times over a two-year period. Qatar is the first country to move on to the ETA scheme and Qatari nationals can now apply and will require an ETA to travel to the UK on or after 15 November 2023. From 01 February 2024, the scheme will be introduced for nationals of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Jordan.Since the Covid pandemic there has been continued recovery in tourism from the GCC to the UK. VisitBritain is forecasting that spending by GCC visitors in the UK will return to 2019 levels by 2024 and visitation numbers to return by 2025.The Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) countries are very important inbound tourism markets for the UK, its second most valuable market for visitor spending, when all six countries are combined. The latest official full year statistics are for 2022. These showed that there were 791,000 visits from the GCC to the UK, with those visitors spending £2 billion during their stays. Visitors from the GCC spent an average of £2,578 on their trips to the UK in 2022, more than three times the all visitor average. They also stayed longer in the UK, 16 nights, compared to an all market average of eight.The latest available statistics are for January to June 2023. These show that from January to June 2023 there were 411,000 visits from the GCC to the UK with those visitors spending £945 million. Flight bookings from the Middle East to the UK have been showing strong recovery and are currently tracking at about 93% of 2019 levels.VisitBritain’s research shows that visitors from the GCC enjoy dining in Britain’s wonderful restaurants, shopping, sightseeing at its famous monuments and buildings, visiting parks and gardens, museums and art galleries - all of which Britain caters for in abundance. VisitBritain’s consumer sentiment research also shows travellers from the GCC are keen to roam around, visiting multiple destination types on their next international trip, as well as visiting large cities.VisitBritain’s ‘See Things Differently’ campaign is part of the UK Government’s GREAT campaign.More information about the ‘See Things Differently’ campaign:VisitBritain’s marketing campaign in the GCC is a continuation of its ‘Spilling the Tea’ on Great Britain campaigns which first rolled out in February this year under the umbrella of ‘See Things Differently.’The campaign has been developed based on VisitBritain’s research into motivations for travel now, with discovering new and surprising experiences high on the wish list for its target audiences and markets.The full list of locations and activities seen in the campaign are:EnglandBamburgh, NorthumberlandBath, SomersetBirmingham, West MidlandsBrighton, East SussexBristolCoventry, West MidlandsLake District, Cumbria (Alpacaly Ever After)Leeds, West Yorkshire (Afternoon Tea at Issho)Liverpool, Merseyside (Oh Me Oh My roof garden)Liverpool, Merseyside (Crosby Beach)Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and WearYorkshire Moors, North YorkshireSaffron Walden, EssexSeaford, East SussexWhitby, North YorkshireLondonCovent Garden, LondonLittle Venice, LondonNotting Hill, LondonRichmond, LondonSouth Kensington, London (Science Afternoon Tea at the Ampersand Hotel)Tottenham, London (The Dare Skywalk at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium)Tower Bridge, London (London Kayaking Company)Scotland:Achmelvich, Scottish HighlandsCairngorms National Park, Scottish HighlandsCaledonian Canal, Scottish HighlandsEdinburghElie, FifeGlencoe, Scottish HighlandsLoch Ness, Scottish HighlandsWales:Cardiff (Cardiff Castle)Eryri (Snowdonia), GwyneddPorthcawl Beach, BridgendFreshwater West; PembrokeshireStrumble Head, PembrokeshireThe Gower Peninsula, SwanseaFor more on the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme please visit https://homeofficemedia.blog.gov.uk/2023/10/25/electronic-travel-authorisation-eta-scheme-factsheet-june-2023/, the national tourism agency for Great Britain, invites travellers from the Gulf Corporation Council (GCC) countries to ‘Come see things differently’ by showcasing more exciting and unexpected experiences only found in Britain.Underway from November until early 2024, the campaign uses a mix of inspiring destination content and short films showcasing Britain's 'wild coastlines’, drawing attention to seaside locations within a few hours' reach of major city centres, 'countryside adventures', promoting its diverse landscapes and 'vibrant cities’, highlighting Britain’s bustling urban life and contemporary culture. The campaign has been developed based on VisitBritain’s research into motivations for travel now, with discovering new and surprising experiences high on the wish list for its target audiences and markets.The campaign is a progression from VisitBritain’s ‘Spilling the tea on Great Britain’ campaign which was launched earlier in 2023 and encouraged visitors to explore more of Great Britain’s nations and regions especially during non-peak travel seasons.VisitBritain’s Deputy Director APMEA CNEA, Carol Madisson said:“The GCC is an incredibly important tourism market for Britain and we are delighted to launch this new phase of our major brand campaign, to drive urgency for GCC travellers to visit now, while showcasing the breadth of exciting experiences and destinations across Britain. Whether it's the thrill of coastal and countryside adventures, such as riding the waves on our wild coastlines, or relaxing in remote landscapes, or exploring our bustling, vibrant cities through street art tours, indulgent afternoon teas and shopping sprees, our campaign shows that Britain has so much to explore.As well as inspiring international visitors to discover more of Britain’s nations and regions we’re working with industry partners in the GCC to convert that desire to visit into confirmed bookings for travel now. Through this campaign we look forward to welcoming more visitors from the Gulf to experience Britain’s exciting tourism offers well into 2024 and beyond.”An integral part of the ‘Come See Things Differently’ campaign is its advertising elements that use an integrated mix of channels including cinema in Saudi Arabia, branded content across social media including Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat, and digital billboards along high-traffic areas such as Sheikh Zayed Road in Dubai.Additionally, VisitBritain will continue to work with its premier trade partner Wego to expand the campaign's reach throughout 2024 and encourage travel bookings for the upcoming winter and spring seasons.The recent introduction of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme, combined with the region’s strong airline connections to the UK, is set to further enhance the ease of travel for GCC nationals visiting Britain. The ETA will cost £10 and allow visitors to visit the UK multiple times over a two-year period. Qatar is the first country to move on to the ETA scheme and Qatari nationals can now apply and will require an ETA to travel to the UK on or after 15 November 2023. From 01 February 2024, the scheme will be introduced for nationals of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Jordan.Since the Covid pandemic there has been continued recovery in tourism from the GCC to the UK. VisitBritain is forecasting that spending by GCC visitors in the UK will return to 2019 levels by 2024 and visitation numbers to return by 2025.The Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) countries are very important inbound tourism markets for the UK, its second most valuable market for visitor spending, when all six countries are combined. The latest official full year statistics are for 2022. These showed that there were 791,000 visits from the GCC to the UK, with those visitors spending £2 billion during their stays. Visitors from the GCC spent an average of £2,578 on their trips to the UK in 2022, more than three times the all visitor average. They also stayed longer in the UK, 16 nights, compared to an all market average of eight.The latest available statistics are for January to June 2023. These show that from January to June 2023 there were 411,000 visits from the GCC to the UK with those visitors spending £945 million. Flight bookings from the Middle East to the UK have been showing strong recovery and are currently tracking at about 93% of 2019 levels.VisitBritain’s research shows that visitors from the GCC enjoy dining in Britain’s wonderful restaurants, shopping, sightseeing at its famous monuments and buildings, visiting parks and gardens, museums and art galleries - all of which Britain caters for in abundance. VisitBritain’s consumer sentiment research also shows travellers from the GCC are keen to roam around, visiting multiple destination types on their next international trip, as well as visiting large cities.VisitBritain’s ‘See Things Differently’ campaign is part of the UK Government’s GREAT campaign.More information about the ‘See Things Differently’ campaign:VisitBritain’s marketing campaign in the GCC is a continuation of its ‘Spilling the Tea’ on Great Britain campaigns which first rolled out in February this year under the umbrella of ‘See Things Differently.’The campaign has been developed based on VisitBritain’s research into motivations for travel now, with discovering new and surprising experiences high on the wish list for its target audiences and markets.The full list of locations and activities seen in the campaign are:EnglandBamburgh, NorthumberlandBath, SomersetBirmingham, West MidlandsBrighton, East SussexBristolCoventry, West MidlandsLake District, Cumbria (Alpacaly Ever After)Leeds, West Yorkshire (Afternoon Tea at Issho)Liverpool, Merseyside (Oh Me Oh My roof garden)Liverpool, Merseyside (Crosby Beach)Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and WearYorkshire Moors, North YorkshireSaffron Walden, EssexSeaford, East SussexWhitby, North YorkshireLondonCovent Garden, LondonLittle Venice, LondonNotting Hill, LondonRichmond, LondonSouth Kensington, London (Science Afternoon Tea at the Ampersand Hotel)Tottenham, London (The Dare Skywalk at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium)Tower Bridge, London (London Kayaking Company)Scotland:Achmelvich, Scottish HighlandsCairngorms National Park, Scottish HighlandsCaledonian Canal, Scottish HighlandsEdinburghElie, FifeGlencoe, Scottish HighlandsLoch Ness, Scottish HighlandsWales:Cardiff (Cardiff Castle)Eryri (Snowdonia), GwyneddPorthcawl Beach, BridgendFreshwater West; PembrokeshireStrumble Head, PembrokeshireThe Gower Peninsula, SwanseaFor more on the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme please visit https://homeofficemedia.blog.gov.uk/2023/10/25/electronic-travel-authorisation-eta-scheme-factsheet-june-2023/

Al Ramz Corporation PJSC (ALRAMZ:UH), a leading financial services provider in the UAE, announced today the appointment of Yazan Abdeen as chief executive of its asset management business.Yazan will spearhead Al Ramz's distinguished asset management division, a foundational component of the Group. This boasts an impressive track record and manages a robust portfolio of assets under management. With a comprehensive value proposition that includes fund management, discretionary portfolio management, and tailored family business services, Al Ramz continues to solidify its leadership position in the industry, catering to a growing clientele.Yazan boasts an extensive track record in asset management, having accumulated over twenty years of expertise in the MENA capital markets. He has served in key roles such as CEO of Abu Dhabi Investment Management, Head of MENA Capital Markets at SEDCO Capital, and Fund Manager at ING Investment Management Middle East. Notably, Yazan was instrumental in launching and managing the first MENA equities long/short hedge fund in the Middle East. Yazan has been recognized for his contributions and awarded prestigious titles, including Saudi Asset Manager of the Year, Top-Performing MENA Fund, and Best MENA Fund Launch. He has also been listed multiple times on the MENAFM Power 50 Fund Managers.Bottom of FormMohamad Al Mortada Al Dandashi, Group Managing Director at Al Ramz, stated: "As Al Ramz progresses in its growth trajectory, we are pleased to welcome Yazan Abdeen to our team. Yazan’s experience and strategic insight support our growth goals. We believe that under his leadership, we can address the challenges and opportunities as we continue our development and expansion."Yazan Abdeen, Chief Executive of Asset Management at Al Ramz said: "As I take on the role of chief executive of Al Ramz Asset Management, I recognize the importance of our strategic direction. We aim to partner for growth, invest for value, lead through innovation, succeed through discipline and grow with trust. Our vision includes embracing innovation and intelligence into our business including quantitative offering and digital solutions through the use of advanced technologies as well as expanding our track record to capitalize on market opportunities.Al Ramz Corporation PJSC's appointment of Yazan as the CEO of Asset Management reflects its dedication to enhancing its asset management capabilities and serving its clients effectively. This decision aligns with the Group’s vision for growth in the evolving financial sector.

Olfa Messaoudi has been appointed as the Chief Digital and Marketing Officer for L’Oréal Middle East. This marks a significant milestone for the company. With a remarkable 20-year career in digital and marketing transformation, Messaoudi brings a wealth of experience from her work with renowned brands and agencies across different regions.In her current position, Messaoudi is tasked with leading L’Oréal’s marketing initiatives in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). This includes overseeing various aspects of the business strategy such as digital, media, e-commerce, platforms, services, market intelligence, and consumer insights. Her role is pivotal in reinforcing L’Oréal Middle East's position as a global leader in the beauty industry.Messaoudi's journey with L’Oréal began in 2010 when she joined as the Global Digital Manager for Lancôme. During her tenure, she played a crucial role in orchestrating Lancôme's digital transformation, encompassing 360 activations, e-commerce strategies, and customer relationship management. In 2014, she relocated to Dubai to take on the role of Regional Head of Digital for L’Oréal Middle East Luxe Division. Here, she played a key role in advancing e-commerce in the region and spearheading the luxury transformation.Returning to Paris in 2017, Messaoudi assumed the position of Global Vice President of Digital, E-commerce, and Customer Relationship Management for YSL Beauty. In this capacity, she played a vital role in driving the brand's e-commerce growth and enhancing the online-to-offline consumer experience through the rollout of services and beauty tech. Before her current role, Messaoudi joined the SAPMENA Luxe Management Committee in 2021, based in Singapore, as the Chief Consumer Experience Officer. Here, she continued to contribute significantly to the online-to-offline consumer journey and laid the foundation for customer relationship management transformation. Additionally, she implemented new frameworks to ensure a seamless consumer experience across media and the e-boutique.Overall, Olfa Messaoudi's extensive experience and innovative approach are expected to play a crucial role in furthering L’Oréal Middle East’s digital and marketing initiatives, solidifying its position as a leader in the beauty industry.

The Bold Group made a significant impact at the Athar Saudi Creative Festival by launching an AI project, showcasing a pivotal step in integrating artificial intelligence into the advertising realm. The festival, hosted at the RDC - Crown Plaza in Riyadh, served as a platform for the company to unveil its innovative AI initiative designed specifically for the cultural context of Saudi Arabia's advertising industry.At the heart of the initiative was the company's booth, which demonstrated the practical application of AI in the Saudi advertising sector. Beyond being a technological leap, the project aligns with Saudi Arabia's strategic vision for the advertising industry, aiming to enhance the cultural relevance of advertising campaigns and create tools tailored to the Saudi market.Key industry figures, including Abeer Alessa, Ziad Abou Rjeily, and Rasha Alsaleh, played significant roles as speakers at the festival. Alessa shared insights into the evolving challenges within Saudi Arabia's creative industry, Abou Rjeily delved into the metaverse and its potential for immersive experiences, and Alsaleh focused on the changing engagement of youth in the creative sector, emphasizing their needs and aspirations.The Bold Group's initiative seeks to inspire and involve creative professionals and industry stakeholders, urging them to explore and embrace AI in advertising. The company emphasizes collaboration, partnerships, and investments to drive advancements in the advertising industry in the region. Abeer Alessa stated, "Our initiative is a journey to embrace AI in a way that complements and enriches our cultural fabric, perfectly aligning with the strategic vision of Saudi Arabia." Ziad Abou Rjeily added, "We are on the brink of a new era where AI offers deep insights, marking our commitment to continuous learning and evolution in the creative industry."The Bold Group's presence at the Athar Saudi Creative Festival sets a new standard in the industry, showcasing their dedication to pioneering AI technology in advertising and fostering innovation within the creative community. Their active involvement establishes a foundation for future advancements and collaborations in the advertising landscape of Saudi Arabia

 Athar – Saudi Festival of Creativity, the largest gathering of the creative marketing industry in the Kingdom, concluded its inaugural edition with the Athar Awards ceremony that saw the likes of Dr Obeid Al Abdali, President of Mazeej Marketing Consulting and Kaswara Al Khatib, Chairman of UTURN, take home the Saudi Athar Marketer Award and Saudi Athar Empowerment Award, respectively.The festival, which brought together more than 1,400 attendees from across the region and beyond to Riyadh, celebrated the distinguished work of some of the finest talent at the first Athar Legacy Awards of the Decade and the Athar Special Awards on 16 November 2023. In addition, the event also recognised winners of the Young Talent Academy Programme’s 24-hour hack competition as well as the participants of the Maheerah Programme.Attended by the who’s who of the industry from across the region, the award ceremony saw top honours being given away by the awards were given away in grand fashion by Ian Fairservice, Chairman of Athar Festival and Managing Partner & Group Editor-in-Chief of Motivate Media Group, and Mohamed Al Ayed, Vice Chairman of Athar Festival and CEO of TRACCS, alongside other senior leaders from reputable Saudi organisations.Commenting on the success of the festival, Fairservice stated: “Over the last few days, Athar Festival has proven that the potential for creativity in Saudi Arabia is simply boundless. Though it may have come to an end here at the Athar Awards, the conversations have only just begun, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds.”Similarly, sharing his thoughts on the inaugural edition of the Athar Awards, Al Ayed said: “Creativity has always been the differentiating factor of success. That success is what the first-ever Athar Awards intends to recognise and celebrate as we draw the curtain on what has been a truly amazing and inspiring festival. We are confident that the impact created here will spread to empower even greater levels of creative innovation in the Kingdom.”Athar Legacy Awards of the Decade:The Athar Legacy Awards of the Decade, recognised agencies and brands verified by the Dubai Lynx and Cannes Lions international festivals of creativity based on the highest number of cumulative points gained over the last decade. The four categories and the proud winners were:Saudi Athar Media Network of the Decade: StarcomSaudi Athar Brand of the Decade: stcSaudi Athar Agency of the Decade: Wunderman Thompson, RiyadhSaudi Athar Network of the Decade: Wunderman ThompsonAthar Special Awards:The Athar Special Awards went out to the most outstanding individuals, market leaders, and organisations who have positively contributed to the local creative industry’s growth and development. These awards were given across two individual categories and four group categories:Individual CategoriesSaudi Athar Marketer Award: Dr Obeid Al Abdali, President of Mazeej Marketing ConsultingSaudi Athar Empowerment Award: Kaswara Al Khatib, Chairman of UTURNGroup CategoriesSaudi Athar Disruptors Award: The Bold GroupSaudi Athar Excellence Award: The FullstopSaudi Athar Game Changer Award: AramcoSaudi Athar Creative Recognition Award: Impact BBDOYoung Talent Academies Awards:A fitting culmination of the Young Talent Academy Programme that took place over the course of the Athar Festival, the Young Talent Academy Awards at the ceremony acknowledged the outstanding performance of participants who excelled in six academies related to public relations, social communications, branding and design, innovation, copywriting, and planning.Held from 13-15 November, these youth took part in a 24-hour hack competition that saw the leaders of tomorrow put their skills to the test, with each academy producing a number of winners:Social Communications Academy Hack Competition WinnersLama Baaj, XELEMENTHessa Alnoufal, BassmatShahad Alhammad, HungerStationBranding and Design Academy Hack Competition WinnersNancy ElAzzi, Wunderman ThompsonMazunah Alfagham, King Saud UniversityAhmed Al-Hassan, XELEMENTInnovation Academy Hack Competition WinnersRaghad Othman, HungerStationSara Alruwalily, King Saud UniversityShaden Alotaibi, King Saud UniversityCopywriting Academy Hack Competition WinnersNouf Mishall Mohabat, SABICRuba Alshamrani, HungerStationYara Al Hanaya, Lhamin MarketingPlanning Academy Hack Competition WinnersNoora Alissa, HungerStationAmmar Sadiq, MindshareAbdullah Dahan, Onsor MoshaSaleh Alhedaithy, BassmatAyman Aldahan, MindsharePublic Relations Academy Hack Competition WinnersRaneem Alotaibi, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic UniversityAljohara Alsuliman, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic UniversityRaghad Asiri, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic UniversitySahar Alharbi, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic UniversityRaya Almoshawah, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic UniversityThe Athar Awards ceremony successfully culminated the inaugural edition of the Athar Festival that brought the local and international creative community together to uncover and amplify the creative potential of Saudi Arabia. The realisation of this potential and its business impact on the industry and beyond will likely be explored in next year’s edition of the festival.

 In a life-changing triumph, Athul Monika, a computer engineer from Kerala - India, residing in the UAE, wins the latest AED1 million raffle draw by Idealz.This was made possible with a simple purchase of a AED30 'idealzbasics' shopping card from the Idealz mobile app. The campaign that attracted a diverse range of participants ended on November 5th and Athul’s name was drawn by a government official from Dubai Economy and Tourism during a live draw aired on the Idealz app and YouTube channel.Speaking of the win, Athul said: "When I first received the call, my wife and I thought it was not real. I'm still in disbelief that I've won this amount. With my baby girl born just last month, this news is beyond incredible, and I believe that her birth has brought immense luck to my family. This amount is truly life-changing, and though I haven't planned what I’m going to do with it, it presents incredible opportunities."Athul further added, “I've been participating with Idealz for a year now, and to finally emerge as a winner is truly gratifying. I plan to continue being a part of Idealz’s upcoming campaigns and strongly encourage everyone to join in as you never know when you might strike it big."The AED1 million campaign is a mainstay on the Idealz platform, designed to offer its global customer base a continuous chance to become a millionaire with a single affordable purchase. As the platform evolves and pioneers new ideas however, participants can look forward to a host of thrilling opportunities and surprises in the days ahead such as the chance to drive home a luxury sports car or move into their very own apartment.Visit www.idealz.com or download the Idealz mobile app to stay up to date on the life-changing and exciting campaigns offered by the ‘first-of-its-kind’ platform.

Smart Salem, the UAE's leading high-tech visa medical testing provider, today announced the appointment of Amanda Gravitis as its new Chief Executive Officer. Amanda will replace Sanjay Verma, who will move into a new role with Visiomed Group, the parent company of Smart Salem, as the Regional Manager for the MENA region.Amanda is currently the Chief Operating Officer of Smart Salem and, over the last 18 months, has played a pivotal role in structuring and expanding the company. Amanda will begin as Smart Salem CEO effective immediately. She will lead the diversification and further growth of the three premium visa medical and wellness centers in Dubai – located in Index Tower DIFC, City Walk and Dubai Knowledge Park.Prior to joining Smart Salem, Amanda held senior positions at PwC and Government entities across Asia Pacific and the Middle East. She has an excellent track record for strategy development and execution and organisational transformation.Sanjay took over the Chief Executive role at Smart Salem in early 2022. Since then, Smart Salem has tripled its physical footprint to three prestigious centers around Dubai and has seen impressive and steady growth: from approximately 300 daily visits in early 2022 to over 570 in October 2023, +41% revenue growth in H1-2023 versus H1-2022, and a strong diversification of its services towards wellness and prevention.Sanjay’s new appointment highlights Visiomed Group’s expansion into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and follows the incorporation of a new joint venture, called Smart Health, between Visiomed Group, Abrar Communications and Al Ghazzawy Group, with the support of the Ministry of Health (MoH) and the Ministry of Investment (MISA), as part of a national project to deploy digital diagnostic centres.Thomas Picquette, CEO of Visiomed Group, commented: “The appointments of Sanjay and Amanda underpin one of the most exciting chapters of the Smart Salem journey yet. This year has seen us hit milestone after milestone, and we are set up to meet our future ambitions for 2024 and beyond, including the expansion of our services and physical presence across the MENA region. Both individuals have excellent, proven strategic capabilities, and we, the board, are more than confident that the company will reach new heights of success under their esteemed leadership.”Sanjay Verma, Regional Manager of Visiomed Group in MENA, commented: "In just a few years, Smart Salem has been established as one of the most vibrant and technologically advanced health and wellness providers in the UAE, reflecting the remarkable progress we've made in a short time. I have had the privilege of leading the business during this exciting phase, and I am delighted to be passing it over to Amanda, who has been instrumental in the success of our strategy so far."I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated team and loyal clientele, whose unwavering trust and support have been instrumental in my journey with the firm. In my new role, I look forward to driving further the impressive global footprint of Visiomed Group as we remain steadfast in our mission to redefine the standards of wellness and healthcare services across MENA.”Amanda Gravitis, CEO of Smart Salem, said: “I am delighted with my appointment to CEO of Smart Salem. During my time as COO, I have had the pleasure of scaling our business by delivering state-of-the-art facilities, leveraging cutting-edge technologies and innovations, building a talented team, and ensuring our purpose – improving the health and wellness of the community – is central to everything we do. I look forward to this next challenge of steering our business and its growth, and ultimately to continue pushing boundaries to deliver world-class health and wellness services.”Smart Salem offers express visa services, providing customers with a premium experience, the convenience of one-stop shop visa residency services, and preventative, general wellness testing. Visa medical results are the fastest in the market, with results guaranteed within just 30 minutes. Smart Salem is conveniently open for extended hours six days per week, with three easily accessible locations across the city.

AGMC, the official distributor of Geely vehicles in the UAE, has announced the launch of the all-new Geely Tugella in the UAE. Tugella features an iconic 14-degree fastback coupe design that combines elegance with superior aerodynamics, alongside a raft of exciting technology, unrivalled performance and incredible value at a starting price of AED105,900.Defined by leading features such as an L-shaped asymmetrical cockpit – an innovative design offering unmatched visibility and easy-to-reach controls – and outstanding driver and passenger comfort, all underpinned by Geely’s pioneering Compact Modular Architecture (CMA), the all-new Tugella allows customers to discover the joy of a premium driving experience. The sportback’s elegance and superior aerodynamics are the result of the 14-degree golden ratio unbroken roofline extension from the top of the windshield down to the tail of the car.Commenting on the launch, Dr Andreas Schaaf, CEO – New Ventures at Albatha Automotive said: “We are delighted to introduce our valued customers in the United Arab Emirates to the all-new Geely Tugella, a trendsetting sportback SUV boasting a luxurious interior and advanced technology, safety and performance features. With a compelling price positioning, the launch of this latest model will only serve to boost Geely’s popularity in the UAE, and we are deeply thankful for the trust in Geely shown by customers across the country so far. With the sleek and sporty Tugella, we are confident that they will be thrilled by the unmatched value alongside the superior driving experience and impressive list of features. Backed by Geely’s impeccable commitment to quality, the Tugella is certain to become a hot favourite among motorists in the UAE.”The Geely Tugella elevates driving to a new level with its 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder direct-injection engine, providing a power output of 238hp and torque of 350Nm. Its Aisin 8-speed automatic transmission and BorgWarner’s fifth generation 4WD system ensure superior road handling through even distribution of power between its axles. This sophisticated combination of powertrain and chassis technology enables the Tugella to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in just 6.9 seconds – setting the stage for a thrilling driving experience on the UAE’s roads.The Tugella’s stunning list of features includes top-of-range industry benchmarks such as keyless start, Electric Parking Brake, and adaptive cruise control system, in addition to a bundle of impressive safety and driver assist functions such as a 540° camera, Hill Start and Descent Control, Blind Spot Detection, Rear Crossing Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning and Speed Limit Identification Function (SLIF). An in-built wave radar scans blind spots to ensure driving safety, especially when reversing at low speed – where pedestrians and vehicles approaching laterally can be detected in real-time.A key highlight of the Geely Tugella’s interior is the Interstellar Aurora Cockpit featuring a seamless blend of superior technology, a jet plane throttle-inspired gear shifter, and an 8-color ambient light display that changes as per the selected driving mode – Normal, Eco, Sport, Snow/Sand, or Off Road.The latest intelligent vehicle technologies turn the Tugella into a smart car providing greater connectivity and convenience, while the high-tech dual 12-inch screen can also display Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) functions that make every journey safer. The 12 discreetly installed Bose speakers ensure that all on board can revel in a truly immersive sound experience. The all-new Geely Tugella’s sporty exterior is complemented by its array of colour options, including crystal black, titanium silver, moonstone white, deep ocean blue, and amber red.With an unbeatable combination of style, safety and technology, it’s no wonder that the Geely Tugella recently surpassed the global auto industry reliability verification standards, derived from performance tests conducted in 57 environments.

Shiplifier, a homegrown platform providing seamless shipping solutions under one dashboard, has formally launched operations, coming in as a key solution to ecommerce businesses to secure reduced shipping rates from multiple shipping companies. At the North Star’s Supernova Competition held at GITEX in 2022, Shiplifier were a finalist for its Top 10 Startup of the MENA Region. Founded by CEO Ali Javaheri, Shiplifier was born out of desire to streamline and automate shipping logistics for e-commerce businesses. A traditionally tedious process that typically requires users to shop rates from various couriers via different platforms. Since its inception in March, Shiplifier has garnered more than 300 customers and ecommerce businesses, amassing a Month-to-Month increase of 100%. Shiplifier’s achievements and strategic courier rates from multiple third party logistics grants businesses unprecedented flexibility with access to competitive rates from couriers including I Mile Delivery, DHL, FedEx, Aramex, Zajel and SMSA Express. Shiplifier is a cost-effective path delivering in a timely manner by streamlining key operations empowering businesses to efficiently process, ship, track, and monitor packages. The platform significantly reduces the time businesses spend on logistics management, through consolidation and conveniently accessible within a unified and user-friendly platform.Drawing from his four years of invaluable experience within the shipping and e-commerce industry in North America, Shiplifier’s CEO Ali Javaheri comments, “Today, users are accustomed to placing orders for food that encompasseses all aspects from cooking, preparation, packaging and the delivery. Similarly with Shiplifier, customers can expect the same 360 solutions for their ecommerce business when it comes to shipping and logistics.” Shiplifier’s extensive network not only provides businesses the freedom to choose from top-tier shipping solutions but also facilitates smooth integration with leading e-commerce platforms, elevating the overall efficiency of logistics and order processing. 

As the holiday season approaches, The Galleria Al Maryah Island launches its highly anticipated 3-Day Super Sale, set to take place from 24 to 26 November 2023. Guests will be offered an exclusive opportunity to enjoy discounts of up to 90% off from a myriad of leading brands.Aligned with the excitement of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Race Weekend, The Galleria welcomes guests from Abu Dhabi and beyond to indulge in a unique shopping and dining experience. The lifestyle destination complements the highly anticipated weekend with a vibrant atmosphere of discount shopping.The Galleria boasts a diverse range of retail concepts, from luxury brands to homeware, electronics, accessories and dining options. Guests seeking the perfect gift or looking to pamper themselves will find an array of offers tailored to their preferences.Key retailers such as Gina and Lululemon will present enticing discounts of up to 50%, while Sophia Home will offer an impressive 75% discount and the newly opened Foot Locker will offer deals up to 50% off on selected items.Moreover, guests seeking exceptional home furniture can enjoy up to 80% on selected items at United Furniture and Ashley Homestore. For those looking to update their makeup sets, NYX Cosmetics is offering a buy 1-get-1 free offer and 50% off on selected items whereas Kiko Milano is offering a buy 3, get 3 free package.Guests are offered the simplest yet ideal solution for gifting loved ones with The Galleria Gift Card that can be redeemed at any boutique or restaurant within the destination throughout an entire year, allowing guests the convenience to shop at their own leisure.For every gift card purchase totalling AED 250 or more, guests will receive the exclusive fragrance from The Galleria, making the shopping experience even more delightful and memorable. This luxurious fragrance seamlessly weaves together the refreshing essence of citrus, the inviting embrace of wood and the alluring notes of musk. The exclusive scent will be available only while stocks last.Adding to the excitement of Race Weekend, the Abu Dhabi Winter Shopping Season returns for its fourth consecutive year boosting the emirate’s flourishing retail scene during the bustling festive period. As part of this initiative and in collaboration with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), The Galleria will continue to position itself as a hub for tourists and locals alike to relish the approaching shopping and festive season as it welcomes its highly anticipated Winter Wonderland from 04 December 2023.Experience an abundance of engaging activities and diverse dining options suitable for everyone, ensuring cherished moments with family and friends.

Ooredoo Q.P.S.C, a leading telecommunications provider, has won two prestigious awards at the 2023 edition of the Middle East Investor Relations Association (MEIRA) Annual Conference held in Bahrain. The prestigious event, attracting 500 delegates, culminated in Ooredoo being named the “Leading Corporate for Investor Relations” and secured the “Best Investor Relations Professional” award in Qatar for the fourth consecutive year.The MEIRA Annual Conference concluded on the 14th of November 2023. Held in Bahrain this year, MEIRA is the Middle East’s largest event dedicated to investor relations hosting over 500 delegates. The theme of the event was “From ESG to Sustainable Capital Markets”.Commenting on the news, Aziz Aluthman Fakhroo, Group Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, said: “I like to extend my gratitude to the MEIRA community for their confidence in our efforts. Once again, these awards reaffirm our steadfast dedication to best practices in Investor Relations. At Ooredoo, our commitment to delivering timely, transparent, and reliable information is paramount. I express my sincere appreciation and pride for the exceptional work of our team, whose dedication has been instrumental in earning these prestigious recognitions.”

The value of foreign investments in the Saudi capital market has increased by 300% over the past five years, specifically from 2018 to the end of 2022, reaching SAR 347.01 billion by the end of the period. This constitutes 14.2% of the total value of the free float in the main market, compared to SAR 86.86 billion in 2018, which represents 3.77% of the total value of free float shares in the main market for that year.In this regard, the Capital Market Authority's (“CMA's") Deputy of Listed Companies and Investment Products, Abdullah Mohammed Binghannam reported that the CMA aims to position the Saudi capital market among the leading markets regionally and internationally. Diversifying the investor base is critical to reaching such a ranking. The CMA has made major efforts in recent years to increase the attractiveness of the Saudi capital market to foreign investors and to encourage their entry and participation in the trading and offerings, as well as in the general assemblies of firms. Since allowing foreign investors to directly invest in the capital market in 2015, the Saudi Capital Market has evolved from a local market to one where the foreign investor participates in daily trading at rates exceeding 17%, compared to less than 4% before. The foreign ownership value now exceeds SAR 347 billion.Foreign investment in the main capital market has increased significantly, reaching unprecedented historic levels. From 2018 to 2022, net foreign investment in the main market exceeded SAR 180 billion. The contribution of foreign investors to company offerings has increased, and foreign investor ownership in the Saudi debt instruments market has increased more than tenfold since the debt instruments market was opened to all categories of foreign investors without restrictions by the end of 2020. Since the Saudi capital market joined the major emerging market indexes in 2019, the rate of increase in foreign investments throughout 2022 has been the highest. This development has contributed to QFI ownership increasing to 1877%, reaching SAR 271.23 billion by the end of 2022, up from SAR 13.7 and SAR 134.48 billion in 2018 and 2019, respectively. By the end of the preceding year, QFIs accounted for 78% of total foreign investment.According to the CMA's Deputy of Listed Companies and Investment Products, the anticipated positive effects of raising foreign investors' share of the capital market and improving their cash flows go beyond that. They stimulate the local economy by attracting new foreign capital to finance the growth of listed firms, as well as offering knowledge and expertise to local companies by strengthening the foreign investor's position in them.Binghannam added that the CMA exerted strenuous efforts during the previous period to increase foreign investors' participation in the Saudi capital market. Among the said prominent efforts are allowing foreign investors to directly invest in debt instruments and approving Instructions for International Central Securities Depositories, a step that contributes to facilitating procedures for attracting foreign investments to Sukuk and debt instruments domestic market. In addition, the recent approval of the Rules for Foreign Investment in Securities. These Rules were methodically and gradually facilitated to minimize the differences between QFIs and other investor categories in the Saudi market, facilitate procedures for foreign investors' entry to the Saudi capital market, and enable broader access to other investment types. The approved Rules can be reviewed through the following link: (Link)The Deputy concluded that CMA's strategic plan, along with its main pillars, aim to raise the Saudi market's status and global classification in a way that shall contribute to raising the attractiveness and efficiency of the capital market and enhancing its competitiveness regionally and internationally. One of the strategic objectives of the CMA's plan is to raise the attractiveness of the market to foreign investors. ?

Dubai: Forbes Middle East has unveiled its highly anticipated sixth annual 30 Under 30 list, showcasing the region’s most exceptional young talent making waves across diverse industries. This year’s list spotlights 120 entries spanning four main categories: Commerce and Finance, Entertainment, Science and Technology, and Social Impact. Each category has 30 entries.To be eligible for the 30 Under 30 list, applicants had to have been under 30 years old on December 31, 2022, meaning that anybody born in 1993 or later was eligible to be on the list. Candidates could have any nationality but had to have their primary impact in MENA.To find the region's most promising young talent, Forbes Middle East assessed more than 600 applications over several rounds of assessments. A shortlist of 240 candidates were then evaluated by independent external judges, all experts in their respective fields. Factors like candidates' impact on their industry, market, society, and future potential were considered. Quantifiable data such as funds raised, awards won, revenues, the value of deals, number of people impacted, number of customers, and number of social media followers were also taken into account.The Class of 2023 celebrates the achievements of 145 individuals representing 22 nationalities, with Egyptians leading the way with 44 individuals, followed by 15 Saudis, 14 Lebanese, 13 Emiratis, and 10 Jordanians. All honorees are based in the Middle East or have their primary business or conduct their core activities in the region. They are dispersed across 20 countries, showcasing the diversity and impact of the region’s emerging leaders. The U.A.E. is home to the most listees with 43 based in the emirates, 36 in Egypt, 14 in Saudi Arabia, nine in Lebanon, and six in Jordan.While each category has 30 entries, Commerce and Finance dominates with the highest number of individuals with 44, followed by Science and Technology and Social Impact with 34 each, and 33 in Entertainment. Among the impressive roster of honorees is Egyptian table tennis champion Hana Goda, the youngest listee at just 15, and 18-year-old Iraqi weightlifter Ali Ammar Rubaiawi. The average age of everyone on the list is 26.6 years old. The list also features Egyptian rapper Wegz and sports stars Mayar Sharif, Hana Gouda, Basant Hamida and Sarah Samir.Of the 145 individuals, 107 are entrepreneurs, making up 74% of the list. If one business had two cofounders or more under the age of 30, they were counted as one entry. Notably, Abdallah Abu Sheikh, leads U.A.E.-based Astra Tech, the highest-funded company on the list. The 28-year-old secured $500 million from G42 in 2022.Forbes Middle East is now finalizing an electrifying agenda for its flagship Under 30 Summit in El Gouna, Egypt in January 2024, which will gather together the Middle East’s esteemed Under 30 community, investors, and business leaders.

Meta and Christian Louboutin filed a joint lawsuit against an individual running a counterfeiting operation from Mexico. The defendant was using digital platforms, including Facebook and Instagram, to promote the sale of counterfeit Christian Louboutin products. The suit, filed in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California, claims the defendant violated Meta’s Terms of Service and Instagram’s Terms of Use and infringed Christian Louboutin’s intellectual property rights by using Facebook and Instagram accounts to promote the sale of counterfeit goods. Our policies and Terms prohibit IP infringement, including the sale or promotion of counterfeit products. Consistent with this, we have taken multiple enforcement actions against the defendant’s Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp accounts. "We have implemented robust IP protection measures across our technologies, including proactive detection and enforcement, a global notice-and-takedown program and policies to suspend repeat infringers. In addition, we provide businesses with tools to report IP violations and prevent harm via Brand Rights Protection, Rights Manager and the Intellectual Property Reporting API. Our global team of trained professionals provides around-the-clock coverage removing infringing content in multiple languages. In the second half of 2022, we removed more than 1.7 million pieces of content on Facebook and Instagram in response to more than 180,000 counterfeit reports, and more than 115 million pieces of content before it was reported to us by a rights holder," said Jessica Romero, Director & Associate General Counsel, Litigation and Mark Fiore, Director & Associate General Counsel, IP.  "We continue to work to ensure Meta’s platforms are safe for people and businesses to connect, share and buy and sell together. This lawsuit is a clear signal to those who would seek to engage in similar abuses that this behavior will not be tolerated. Meta and Christian Louboutin plan to continue their enforcement efforts against counterfeiting and hold those who abuse our policies accountable."

BizAway, a leader in the corporate travel and technology sector, has announced the arrival of Shiraz Ahmad Farooqui as the Regional Sales Director for the UAE region. This new hire represents a significant step in BizAway's expansion into the Middle Eastern market and is based on an impressive career and a unique set of skills.Shiraz Ahmad Farooqui brings with him over 20 years of professional experience, particularly in launching and developing new businesses and territories, as well as identifying growth opportunities from scratch. His expertise spans from designing Go-To-Market strategies to establishing local teams and discovering new revenue opportunities. His ability to innovate and implement solutions for sustainable growth across various marketing and sales strategies is an invaluable asset to BizAway.Shiraz has excelled in complex environments, having worked with successful startups like Fetchr and Holidayme in the Middle East region since 2014.Furthermore, Shiraz has a deep wealth of experience in various sectors, including location-based startups, e-commerce companies, and businesses that have achieved success through funding rounds, including his initial company's IPO in 2019. He has demonstrated his ability to manage large teams and has held key roles in revenue generation.His decision to join BizAway was driven by his passion for technology and the corporate travel industry, as well as his belief that BizAway is solving the day-to-day challenges of business travel in an innovative and compelling way. Shiraz sees significant potential in the solutions offered by BizAway and perceives no significant barriers to their adoption in the market."Shiraz Ahmad Farooqui's extensive experience in innovation and startup management, combined with his strong professional commitment, provide a solid foundation for a successful collaboration," says Luca Carlucci, CEO of BizAway. "We are excited to welcome him to our team and are confident that he will make a significant contribution to the future of BizAway in the UAE region."

McDonald’s and Crocs fans have been buzzing about a new brand mash-up that could elevate any look, and now it is confirmed. McDonald’s and Crocs are introducing their first-ever collab. Inspired by both Crocs Stars™ and Mickey D’s loyalists, the collab will drop with a full line of shoes, socks and Jibbitz™ charms beginning tomorrow in countries around the world.The collection features a variety of footwear, including Crocs' classic clogs and Cozzzy Sandals, along with matching socks. The inspiration for the collection comes from iconic McDonald's trademark characters such as Grimace, Birdie, and Hamburglar. Each character's shoes are designed to reflect their personality and favorite menu items. For example, the Grimace x Crocs Cozzzy Sandal in purple comes with a shake, the Birdie x Crocs Classic Clog in yellow and pink comes with a McDonald's Egg McMuffin, and the Hamburglar x Crocs Classic Clog in black and white stripes features his go-to order—a hamburger.Although the collection doesn't include shoes inspired by McDonald's famous clown, Ronald McDonald, it does feature classic golden arches-sporting red Crocs, known as the McDonald's x Crocs Classic Clog.<img src='https://erp.adgully.me/artical_image\be7e80059e1cbc8c80eb7f528e9180dd.png' class='content_image'>Additionally, the collection includes new charms representing popular menu items such as Chicken McNuggets, World Famous Fries, and the Big Mac. This collaboration seems to offer a playful and unique fusion of fashion and fast-food culture.The McDonald’s x Crocs collab not only fuels a shared brand love, but McDonald’s first-ever global shoe collab also celebrates a beloved cause in Ronald McDonald House Charities® (RMHC). In honour of the Crocs partnership, McDonald's is stepping up for RMHC and will make a donation to help support families with children who are sick and give access to the medical care and resources they need.

Abu Dhabi: H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Chairman of Investopia, announced the details of the upcoming edition of the Investopia summit, which will be held in Abu Dhabi on 28 and 29 of February, 2024, under the theme “Emerging Economic Frontiers: Investing in Fast-Growing Sectors in the New Economy.” It is set to draw the participation of a number of prominent local and international figures including investors, government officials, decision-makers, and entrepreneurs.The announcement was made during a press conference held recently, in the presence of Investopia partners, and more than 75 officials and investors from the government and private sectors at the local, regional, and global levels. The press conference witnessed the signing of eight MoUs between Investopia and its prominent partners for the third edition, which includes the General Civil Aviation Authority in the UAE (GCAA), “SALT”, a global forum for entrepreneurship and investment, EFG Consulting, Standard Chartered Bank, the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), and Citibank, who will collaborate in organizing Investopia 2024.H.E. Bin Touq said: “The Investopia summit is one of the most important projects of the UAE in transitioning towards the new economic model and stimulating investment in future economic sectors. The summit has succeeded in presenting a unique and innovative model for global investment events, and building partnerships with global institutions and companies. Investopia will continue its vital role as an influential player in the regional and international investment arena, generating opportunities in new economic sectors and strengthening the link between global business communities and the UAE, one of the fastest-growing global investment and trade hubs.”Elaborating on the latest edition of Investopia, H.E. Bin Touq said that it focuses on three main themes: Global Dialogues, Investment Communities and Investopia Marketplace. Under the first theme, dialogue sessions and events will be organized with the participation of business leaders, investors and innovators from all over the world. They will discuss key topics that are shaping the global investment ecosystem strategies for risk capital transactions, job creation and growth potential for a low-carbon economy and the new generation of investment. Opportunities to expand into new economic sectors, particularly advanced technologies for the aviation sector, renewable energy, circular economy and modern technologies used in supply chains will also be discussed.He added: "The second axis of Investopia contributes to promoting dialogue between investors and decision makers in governments and the private sector globally and in specific economic sectors. Meanwhile, the third one focuses on enhancing the use of the Investopia Marketplace platform, which connects capital and investment funds around the world and provides the largest investment opportunity database."He added: "The new Investopia summit, to be held in Abu Dhabi, will feature a series of events and activities, including several interactive sessions and closed roundtables at the government level on investment opportunities in the UAE market as well as regional and global markets. It will also highlight the shifts in the global investment climate in light of developments that have created new economic concepts of virtual reality and green and sustainable economies and their implications for investment priorities in critical sectors. These include food technology, clean energy, climate technology and modern technologies associated with the transport, shipping and logistics sector. "During the press conference, H.E. Bin Touq also reviewed Investopia’s achievements since its inception in 2021, including eight rounds of global dialogues and discussions in prominent strategic markets, such as New York, Geneva, New Delhi, Mumbai, Cairo, Rabat, Havana and Milan, as well as the signing of 10 partnerships with global institutions and companies. Moreover, Investopia has successfully increased the number of participants in its events from 800 key local and global personalities from investors, government officials, decision makers and entrepreneurs in 2022 to 800 in 2023, with access to more than 350 executives and officials in 2023 compared to 200 executives in 2022. It also succeeded in increasing the number of participating countries from 45 in 2022 to 58 in 2023, and 150 speakers, reflecting the Summit’s growing potential in connecting the UAE with business communities at the local, regional and global levels, and creating new economic opportunities that promote global economic growth.The conference also highlighted the global dialogues that Investopia 2024 is set to organize in collaboration with its partners throughout the year, most notably the UAE-India Investopia in Dubai, the Investopia London event in the city of London, as well as the Investopia Europe event to be held in the Italian trade capital, Milan.

Manga Production, a subsidiary of the Mohammed bin Salman Foundation "Misk," has signed an agreement with the renowned Japanese production company and studio, Production I.G., to license the animated series "GREAT PRETENDER razbliuto" which is scheduled to be launched in 2024. The partnership includes granting full rights to Manga Production for distribution, licensing, and marketing of the third season of the animated series "Great Pretender" in the Middle East and North Africa region, including events and merchandise rights.Dr. Essam Bukhary, CEO of Manga Productions, commented on the expansion of distribution and licensing, saying: “We are witnessing significant expansion in the field of distribution and licensing at Manga Productions, and this success is attributed to the trust of our partners around the world and the special efforts of our team in their continuous pursuit of success and leadership in the creative industry. Our partnership with “Production I.G” and through “GREAT PRETENDER razbliuto” will play a crucial role in promoting the growth of the local and Middle Eastern market, as it represents a significant milestone in the licensing world within our Arab community."In addition, Mr. George Wada, the president, and the CEO at Production I.G, expressed his enthusiasm towards this partnership, saying: “GREAT PRETENDER razbliuto” is an anime that Production I.G takes full responsibility for, and we have officially entrusted its rights to Manga Productions in the Middle East and North Africa. We are confident that our partnership with Manga Productions will allow the audience in the Arab world to closely enjoy “GREAT PRETENDER razbliuto” series and other upcoming anime works.Eng. Abdulaziz Alnaghmoosh, Director of Marketing, Distribution, and Business Development at Manga Productions, says that “the partnership with Production I.G. in distributing and licensing “GREAT PRETENDER razbliuto” is an important step in their strategy to enhance their presence in the animation industry. They are excited to bring this unique show to audiences in the Middle East and North Africa”.It is worth mentioning that the animated series "GREAT PRETENDER" was directed by Mr. Yuuichiro Hayashi and written by Ryota Kosawa. It premiered in June 2020 on Netflix in Japan, followed by its release on Netflix worldwide. The series has received positive reviews, with an IMDB rating of 7.0 and 8.2 on My Anime List.

The second Bike Abu Dhabi Gran Fondo will take place on Saturday 18 November 2023 featuring cyclists from across the MENA region preparing to race the 154km route.Participants will compete for a share of the AED2 million prize pool at the Bike Abu Dhabi Gran Fondo, that is also open to amateur cyclists as well as experienced riders. Participants able to complete the 154km route at a minimum average speed of 28km per hour are invited to take part in the second edition.The 154km fully-supported race route for the Bike Abu Dhabi Gran Fondo starts in Al Bahyah, turning onto the E16 road to Sweihan, turning to the E20 road to Nahil, then the E95 Street reaching Al Bidda area, before reaching the finish line at Al Ain Cycle Track.Abu Dhabi Sports Council are providing bus transport from the finish line back to Al Bahyah for participants and has once provided free access to training for all participants in the Bike Abu Dhabi Gran Fondo. Designed by trainers from the UCI World Tour winning team, UAE Team Emirates, the 10-week training programme prepares participants of all levels for the challenges of the Bike Abu Dhabi Gran Fondo.Kevin Poulton, Trainer at UAE Team Emirates, said: “Here at UAE Team Emirates, we always strive to bring out the best performance of our riders, creating training plans that enable them to fight for the win at the highest level. The same approach has been applied for the Bike Abu Dhabi Gran Fondo Training Plan.“We created this training plan with the goal to provide the community with the right guide to get them physically ready for the Bike Abu Dhabi Gran Fondo.”

The Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ), home to more than 5000 companies across its three economic zones: Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZ), Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO), and Dubai CommerCity (DCC), has adopted Sprinklr’s cutting-edge Unified Customer Experience Management (Unified-CXM) systems to elevate and refine its customer service capabilities.  As a prominent contributor to Dubai and the UAE’s economic development, DIEZ is keen to continuously strengthen its customer service processes to align with the evolving expectations of its valued stakeholders. In its ongoing pursuit of enhancing customer satisfaction, DIEZ has embarked on a journey to deploy AI-powered chatbots and integrate its customer service operations seamlessly across digital channels, employing Sprinklr's Conversational AI Chatbots, complemented by Sprinklr Service Seats and a Salesforce Connector.By harnessing the power of Sprinklr's Conversational AI and Unified-CXM platform, DIEZ will streamline its contact center operations, delivering rapid and efficient service on a multitude of channels, including live chat, email, and WhatsApp. DIEZ’s customer service agents will leverage Sprinklr's advanced capabilities to manage customer inquiries in multiple languages, all from a single, integrated Sprinklr dashboard. Sprinklr’s Salesforce integration will also aid in harmoniously adapting the overall customer experience.Badr Buhannad, Chief Corporate Support Officer at (DIEZ), said: "At the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ), our mission has always been to drive economic growth and innovation in Dubai and the UAE. In this era of digital transformation and evolving customer expectations, our unwavering commitment to providing outstanding service through our customer’s preferred digital channels remains steadfast. Our collaboration with Sprinklr, harnessing their cutting-edge Conversational AI Engine and Unified-CXM platform, will redefine customer convenience and enhance the ease of doing business, in line with our objectives to deliver an exceptional experience seamlessly across different digital channels.”Sprinklr is equally enthusiastic about collaborating with DIEZ on this journey. Haitham Elkhatib, Vice President of MEA at Sprinklr, said, "DIEZ has been at the forefront of Dubai's economic development. We're honored to have the opportunity to support DIEZ in maintaining its customer-centric focus by building a digital global customer service center on Sprinklr's unified platform."DIEZ, at its core, plays a pivotal role in Dubai's economic ecosystem. It serves as a catalyst for business growth and investment, offering strategic economic zones and facilitating an environment conducive to innovation and commerce. By partnering with Sprinklr, DIEZ aims to bolster its commitment to customer-centricity, providing businesses within its economic zones with the tools and support needed to thrive in the modern digital landscape. This partnership marks a significant milestone for both DIEZ and Sprinklr, demonstrating the power of Sprinklr's conversational AI platform in delivering exceptional customer service and driving organizational growth.SHARE NOWMost Recent NewsAnsett Aviation Training launches Dubai training centre at the (MBRAH) during Dubai AirShow 2023DEWA and UAE Space Agency sign (MoU)DIEZ Elevates Customer Experience with Sprinklr's Conversational AI Chatbots

95 years ago this weekend, a rambunctious animated mouse set sail, becoming one of the most recognizable and beloved icons in history.That mouse—as you probably have guessed—was named Mickey and on November 18, 1928, the character—alongside his partner Minnie—debuted in the touchstone animated short, Steamboat Willie.Since then, Mickey Mouse and The Walt Disney Company have become—in many ways—one in the same.“All of the wonderful things that followed in Walt’s own career were founded upon the first screening of a simple little mouse whistling his way into the hearts of audiences all over the world,” Rebecca Cline, the director of the Walt Disney Archives, said.But Mickey is more than just a company mascot. He’s a symbol, a work of art and a beloved “everyman,” according to Cline.“When asked why Mickey was so popular, Walt once said, ‘when people laugh at Mickey Mouse it’s because he’s so human; and that is the secret of his popularity,’” she added. “He struggles with life as we all do, but uses his innate sense of optimism to overcome all obstacles and has a wonderful time while doing so. He is terrifically appealing because of that optimistic, sunny outlook, and that optimism is sorely needed in the times we are living in today.”Mickey’s everyman quality was evident from the start as seen in the sketches found within the Steamboat Willie story script. That very first image of Mickey is one of a character joyfully whistling a tune.Cline noted that the script was of great importance to Walt Disney—a man who is synonymous with the character itself.“When the Archives was founded in 1970, many of the historical materials remaining in Walt Disney’s offices were inventoried and preserved. The original script of Steamboat Willie was found in one of the drawers of Walt’s desk,” she said. “While Walt always claimed that he was not particularly sentimental, the fact that he kept the script so close illustrates how important it was to Walt himself.”But after 95 years as a cultural star, how does Mickey keep that iconic legacy alive for future generations?“My take is that while Mickey has evolved over time, he is forever young and is still as relatable as he was when he first appeared as Steamboat Willie 95 years ago,” Cline said. “I expect we will continue to see Mickey’s sunny personality in great stories full of heart, and he will continue to charm audiences of all ages, all over the globe, for generations to come.”

Cairo, Egypt - IBM announced the general availability (GA) of watsonx.governance in early December to help businesses automate AI lifecycle governance and proactively manage risk and compliance. This expands IBM’s industry-leading AI governance capabilities to help clients govern machine learning and generative AI tools, applications, and models in one place. Watsonx.governance is one of three software products in the IBM watsonx AI and data platform, along with a set of AI assistants designed to help enterprises scale and accelerate the impact of AI with trusted data. The platform also comprises the watsonx.ai next-generation enterprise studio for AI builders and the watsonx.data open, hybrid, and governed data store.   In the first release of watsonx.governance, clients using LLM models within watsonx.ai — including IBM-developed and various third-party models, such as Llama 2 and those from the Hugging Face community — will be able to govern them on the cloud. Consistent with IBM’s approach to open AI, IBM is expected to expand these capabilities in 1Q24 to allow clients to govern third-party AI models from any vendor — on cloud or on-premises — to orchestrate governance processes across their entire organizations. Watsonx.governance also can help clients facilitate compliance with internal policies, industry standards, current and future regulation. IBM believes in regulation at the use case level, with responsibilities on companies to operate trustworthy AI. To do this, there needs to be an understanding of how and with what data models are trained, how they arrive at their recommendations, and whether they are routinely screened for harmful bias. These priorities — transparency, explainability, safety and fairness — are the foundation of multiple proposals advancing worldwide for the regulation of AI. IBM watsonx.governance is designed to help clients manage their AI and prepare to meet those regulatory requirements head on.  IBM offers automated capabilities that cover all three major pillars of AI governance — lifecycle governance, risk management, and compliance. Expanded capabilities for LLMs include:  Monitor new LLM Metrics: Monitor and alert in both inputs and outputs of LLMs when pre-set thresholds are breached for quality metrics and drift, instances of toxic language — including hate, abuse, and profanity — and Personal Identifiable Information (PII).  Visibility into LLM development: Automatically collect information about the model building process, while explaining decisions to mitigate hallucinations and other new risks.  Transparency of AI Lifecycle for LLMs: Automatically document model facts across all stages of the lifecycle, monitor for drift for text models, and track health details such as data size, latency, and throughput to identify bottlenecks and compute intensive workloads.  Validation Tools for LLMs: Enable prompt engineers to map LLM outputs to provided context/reference data for Q&A use cases to determine whether the LLM is appropriately influenced by the reference data to help ensure it is relevant to the output.  IBM fosters open innovation and collaboration to help clients deploy AI in a transparent and responsible way. IBM Consulting helps clients scale responsible AI with both automated AI model governance and organizational AI governance that encompasses people, process and technology from IBM and strategic partners. Our consultants have deep skills in establishing organizational culture and accountability, AI ethics boards, training, regulatory and risk management and mitigating cybersecurity threats, all using human-centric design.IBM’s commitment to trust and transparency forms the foundation for its products. Recently, it announced intellectual property protection for its IBM-developed watsonx models. Watsonx.governance is a continued investment in helping to foster responsible AI practices across various business domains and industries.  

"Mera Naam Apurva Hai" is her clap-worthy concluding line to one of her abductors. Indeed, this is Tara Sutaria's finest performance till date and the titular film, which premiered directly on Disney Hotstar this mid-week, will hopefully give her career the much needed boost!! Tara plays the about to be married Apurva, who gets abducted from her bus on the Chambal highway. The four sadistic robbers, who take her away just to add some fun element to their night out, don't know whats in the offing for them though!! As such, Apurva's plot is pretty much predictable like any survival drama...but it's the execution and the acting department that works in its favour. The film's crisp pace at just one hour thirty five minutes run time is another plus. I was actually reminded of Anushka Sharma’s far superior NH10 (2015) during some chilling moments. And that's a compliment!! Expectedly, Abhishek Banerjee and Rajpal Yadav are first rate as the uncouth rabid criminals, who derive perverse pleasure in killing humans -male or female!! Particularly, you will just loathe Banerjee's character as he cares two hoots for even his own gang members... The surprise revelation of Apurva is but of course Tara Sutaria, who makes most of the golden opportunity she gets to shoulder an entire movie on her own and comes up trumps at the end of it. Atta Girl!! Ratings on some key aspects* : 1. Acting : 4/5 2. Direction : 3/53. Music : 3/5 4. Story, Screenplay and Dialogue : 2.5/55. Cinematography : 3/56. Editing : 3.5/5 7. Costume Design : 3/58. Special Effects and VFX : NA9. Action : 3.5/510. Production Quality : 3/5 #SNRating for #Apurva : 3 stars out of 5. - Sumeet Nadkarni Liked the review? Click on the link below and like the #SNRatings page to subscribe to honest and unbiased reviews of all latest movies : https://m.facebook.com/SNRatings You can also follow us on Twitter handle : @sumu76in * - The overall film rating is not a simple average of all ratings on key aspects but a weighted average of the ratings where some crucial aspects (like direction, acting, story and screenplay etc) are assigned more weightage than others. #Apurva #SurvivalDrama #HindiMovie #BollywoodFilm #TaraSutaria #RajpalYadav #NH10 #AbhishekBannerjee #BollywoodReview #Filmreview #TheatricalRelease #OTTRelease #Hotstar #SNRatings #SNRatings barometer:1 star = Poor1 & 1/2 star = Below average/ Avoidable2 stars = Average2 & 1/2 stars = Above average/ Risk it3 stars = Good enough/ Endurable3 & 1/2 stars = Definitely worth a watch4 stars = Very good5 stars = Masterpiece/ Outstanding. 2023 SNRatings.

Nike has appointed Nicole Hubbard Graham as its new Chief Marketing Officer (CMO), welcoming her back to the company where she previously served as vice president of global categories and consumer direct brand marketing. Graham will succeed Dirk-Jan van Hameren, who is retiring after more than 30 years with Nike.Graham will be reporting to Heidi O’Neill,Nike’s president of consumer, product, and brand. Graham started her career at Nike as the director of women's marketing for North America. In her prior role as vice president, she supervised global marketing teams and was responsible for Nike's global category brands, digital, retail, and editorial strategies. Her involvement extended to consumer-facing campaigns across various sports and categories such as basketball, football, running, women's, sportswear, training, skate, tennis, and kids.This leadership transition coincides with other changes at Nike, including the creation of a new role for chief innovation officer, filled by John Hoke, who is leaving the design team, with Martin Lotti taking his place. Additionally, Muge Erdirik Dogan, Amazon's chief technology officer, is set to join Nike.Nicole Hubbard Graham's appointment aligns with Nike's strategic shift away from promotions for the current fiscal year. Heidi O’Neill expressed confidence in the leadership changes, emphasizing the company's commitment to innovation, design, and storytelling as the driving forces behind Nike's success. O’Neill thanked Dirk-Jan van Hameren for his 31 years of dedication and leadership, noting his contributions to making Nike a global leader in the industry.

TikTok, the popular social media platform, has been under scrutiny for several years, and the call for a boycott has gained momentum in Saudi Arabia. The hashtag "Boycott TikTok" is trending as users in the country report account suspensions and the removal of pro-Saudi content. Allegations include the deletion of Saudi accounts and the removal of videos supporting Saudi causes, while allowing content that portrays the country negatively.Recent incidents, such as the removal of a Palestinian man's TikTok account for praising Saudi aid during the Hamas-Israel conflict, have fueled the boycott. This movement has led to a decline in the number of Saudi users and a drop in TikTok's rating from 4.4 to 4.3 on app stores. Renowned Emirati artist Ahlam and other celebrities have announced their boycott in solidarity with Saudi Arabia.In response to the growing boycott, TikTok's official Middle East account posted a statement on the platform. While the post is in Arabic, a translation emphasizes TikTok's pride in its Saudi community, rejecting the allegations as contradictory to their policies and values. The statement asserts TikTok's commitment to community guidelines governing content management.Despite this response, the boycott continues to gain strength in Saudi Arabia, with the "Boycott TikTok" movement showing no signs of waning.