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

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

Cairo: ACUD announced the sponsorship of Capital Cup tournament first edition, which will be held at Egypt’s International Olympic City Stadium in the New Administrative Capital. The International Football Federation (FIFA) has also announced the inclusion of this tournament in its international events series. The tournament's events are scheduled to take place from 22nd to 26th of March, following its announcement as part of the trials conducted by FIFA to develop global football. This was announced in an official statement issued by FIFA through its website and official social media pages.Engineer Khaled Abbas, Chairman and Managing Director of Administrative Capital for Urban Development, stated: “The importance of the tournament, and its role in enhancing Egypt’s sport scene spotlight on emerging New Administrative Capital on a global scale.  He emphasized the pride in supporting diverse community initiatives spanning sports, culture, and education, recognizing them as crucial pillars of development”.Eng. Abbas added, "We are committed to provide all available resources to ensure the success of the tournament, and forward to see remarkable performances from all teams.In addition, Eng. Abbas confirmed that the Croatian national team would arrive to Cairo on March 21st to participate in the tournament, confirming that the matches would be live on FIFA's official channels.Eng. Abbas emphasized the significant responsibility of ACUD to highlight the sports development in the New Administrative Capital and opening ceremony that matches the exceptional tournament, he pointed out that the support of the tournament comes within the framework of ACUD’s commitment to enhancing social responsibility. He expressed his hope that this tournament would contribute healthy spirit during this important football tournament.Noteworthy, the tournament is consisted of four matches, the Egyptian national team will start against New Zealand on the 22nd of March and the second match will be according the winner or the loser of the other match against the Egyptian national team .

Emirates will be celebrating the most colourful festival in the world, wishing customers a happy Holi onboard select flights to India with refreshing Thandai drinks and sweet Holi treats.Emirates’ customers travelling to and from seven destinations in India – Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Mumbai, will enjoy the much-loved Indian sweet Kesar Gujiya, alongside their meal for breakfast, lunch or dinner. The deep-fried dumpling stuffed with solidified milk and dried fruits will be served in a specially designed box, reminiscent of the colourful festival of Holi. First and Business Class customers will be warmly welcomed with cold Thandai – a festive drink made from milk and nuts, flavoured with fragrant saffron and rose petals.Customers can get into the holiday spirit with hundreds of classic Bollywood movies in the world-class ice entertainment library with up to 260 Indian movies including new titles, classic Bollywood and regional Indian movies. Movies include box office hits like Pathaan, The Great Indian Family, Gaslight and many more. There is also a special collection of Yash Raj Films, Bollywood’s ‘father of romance.’ Customers can also enjoy music videos from Yash Raj in Indian TV, plus over 30 albums and playlists of Indian music, including a special music video compilation called Holi Hai!Emirates' celebration of Holi underscores the airline's enduring connection with India, spanning 37 years of shared history and cultural affinity. Serving nine destinations in India with 170 weekly flights, Emirates connects millions of customers travelling to India from Dubai and from across its global network each year.

Dubai: On the occasion of International Women’s Day, Business Executive Group awarded Senator Dr Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation, at their Global She Achievers Awards 2024, for her efforts to empower women in STEM, and girls in education, and building healthcare capacity in Africa and beyond. The awards ceremony took place recently in Dubai, UAE.Dr Rasha Kelej said: "Firstly, Happy International Women’s Day to all the women in the world and to the men who support and empower them."It is a great honour to receive The Global She Achievers Award 2024, that too on the very important occasion of International Women’s Day. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Business Executive Team for acknowledging our efforts since past 12 years to empower women in STEM, support girl education and transforming public healthcare in Africa and beyond.”Senator Rasha Kelej has been successfully leading the Merck Foundation programmes for the past 12 years and works closely with more than 24 Africa’s First Ladies as Ambassadors of Merck Foundation and Ministries of Health, Education, Information, Communication, Gender, Academia, Media and Art societies in 50 countries.“We at Merck Foundation, together with First Ladies of Africa, are marking the Women’s Day through our "More Than a Mother" campaign, which is a strong and unique movement that aims to empower women living with infertility stigma through access to information, education, change of mindset, and economic empowerment,” added Senator Rasha Kelej.Merck Foundation is contributing to building and advancing fertility care capacity in Africa and Asia, to support childless women and couples. Over 535 of the total 1,730 scholarships provided to doctors from 50 countries in 42 specialties are for doctors in reproductive & sexual health and fertility care capacity with the aim to advance women's health. Interestingly, over 46% of the 1,730 scholarships (780) have been provided to women doctors.She has been recognized as one of 100 Most Influential African Women for five consecutive years from 2019 to 2023. She has also been awarded D.Litt Honoris Causa by Krishna World University, India for her outstanding achievement in the social sciences, justice and reform.

Chery Automobile has announced the appointment of Lucy Aziz as the new Regional Head of Public Relations and Communication for the OMODA & JAECOO brands. Aziz expressed her enthusiasm, stating: "Joining the esteemed Chery team to introduce the region to the world-class O&J brands is a great honor."Her primary goal is to introduce these brands to users in the GCC, showcasing the cutting-edge technology O&J offers to the automotive industry. Chao Qin, CEO of OMODA & JAECOO in the MENA Region, hailed Lucy's appointment as the start of an exciting chapter for the organization in the region. He emphasized her extensive experience and track record of success across diverse sectors, highlighting her crucial role in establishing strategies and expanding the brand's presence in the GCC market.Lucy Aziz brings a wealth of experience and achievements in the technology sector, particularly in public relations and communications. Previously serving as the Head of Public Relations and Communications at OPPO, she developed communication strategies across six countries, managed media relations, and led successful launch campaigns for major OPPO products in the GCC countries. Her contributions to the technology sector were recognized with the Excellence Award for Women in the Technology Sector at the 2022 GBTech Awards, and she was also honoured as the 'Best Communications Pioneer of 2023' at the Gulf Business Awards.

Riyadh: Publicis Groupe Middle East, a regional leader in marketing, communications and digital business transformation, has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Saudi Company for Artificial Intelligence (SCAI), a wholly owned entity of the Public Investment Fund (PIF), aimed at advancing and accelerating transformative solutions across the Kingdom and wider region. To mark this partnership, a signing ceremony took place at LEAP 2024 in the presence of Nigel Vaz, CEO of Publicis Sapient and member of the Directoire+ (Executive Committee) of Publicis Groupe, Bassel Kakish, CEO of Publicis Groupe Middle East, and Abdullah AlJawini, Chief Investment and Partnerships Officer of SCAI.Commenting on the partnership, Nigel Vaz said: “We are very excited to announce Publicis Groupe’s collaboration with the Saudi Company for Artificial Intelligence (SCAI). Artificial intelligence is poised to reshape how we work, how we live, and how we create value. The Kingdom has been on an incredible journey to transform every facet of its society by putting technology at the service of its citizens and businesses. Our partnership with SCAI is the next step at ensuring that transformation has AI at its core, creating new opportunities in KSA and the region.” Bassel Kakish also added: “By combining SCAI's expertise in AI with Publicis Groupe Middle East's capabilities backed by data and technology, we are poised to unlock exciting new opportunities and realise the full potential of AI in transforming the Kingdom. This partnership represents a significant step towards driving meaningful impact and delivering value to our clients and communities.”Abdullah AlJawini, Chief Investment and Partnerships Officer of SCAI, said: "We are thrilled to join forces with Publicis Groupe Middle East to harness the power of AI and drive innovation by combining our expertise. This collaboration represents a key milestone in our unwavering commitment to shaping the future of AI applications in Saudi Arabia."The collaboration between Publicis Groupe Middle East and SCAI represents a pivotal step towards driving digital transformation and unlocking new opportunities that deliver impactful solutions at scale. Through this strategic collaboration, the two entities aim to leverage their combined expertise to drive significant AI-powered advancements across various domains including digital business transformation with Publicis Sapient; and adtech, lifestyle & loyalty with Epsilon’s real identity capabilities.

du, from Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company (EITC), today signed a strategic a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Samsung. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in the companies' relationship, allowing for expansion in the business-to-consumer (B2C) and business-to-business (B2B) segments.Commenting on the partnership, Karim Benkirane, Chief Commercial Officer at du, said: "We are thrilled to solidify our partnership with Samsung, this collaboration will allow us to provide our customers with an even wider range of cutting-edge products and services. By combining the strengths of both companies, we are confident that we can meet and exceed the evolving needs of our customers."Under this new agreement, du and Samsung will work together to expand Samsung's digital service business and offerings, such as Samsung Care+, through retail, online, and mobile channels. This move aims to enhance the overall customer experience for both B2C and B2B customers.Fadi Abu Shamat, Head of the Mobile eXperience Division at Samsung Gulf Electronics, said: "This strategic collaboration with du is a testament to our commitment to delivering innovative mobile experience to our customers in the UAE. Through this partnership, we will be able to bring our cutting-edge products and solutions including Galaxy AI- a key enabler for new user experience paradigms, especially when it comes to the tools that empower creative expression, productivity, and barrier-free communications. This is the beginning of the future of mobile AI and we are proud to share this journey with our esteemed partner, du.The partnership between du and Samsung will focus on various business fundamentals and key development pillars. This includes expanding B2C practices to B2B, with an emphasis on the Enterprise Edition portfolio and rugged device offerings. Additionally, du will have exclusive access to Samsung's latest product launches, ensuring customers have access to the most advanced technology available. The companies will also collaborate on reaching the younger generation, with joint participation in events like the Dubai Esports Festival.Another strategic focus of this partnership is the creation of B2B-specific workshops and events to maximize reach. The collaboration aims to provide customers with value-added services (VAS) and monetization opportunities through direct investment and by leveraging the du ecosystem. Furthermore, the companies plan to develop B2B-specific rate plans for the enterprise edition and rugged device portfolio, as well as collaborate on CRM initiatives for local customers in the premium segment offerings.

Dubai: This Ramadan, Flowwow, a UAE-based gifting marketplace for local brands, is fostering the spirit of meaningful interactions, unity and togetherness with the launch of a card game: "Ramadan Moments: Family Game for Heart-to-Heart Talks.” Developed in partnership with Emirati digital artist Mariam Alobeidli, this deck of playing cards aims to bring UAE families and friends closer during Iftar evenings while introducing them to the unique local artistry and craftsmanship. The UAE's cultural landscape has evolved significantly in recent years, with a surge in art initiatives, institutions, galleries, and creative spaces. Inspired by the boost of local cultural and artistic flow, Flowwow collaborated with the local artist Mariam Alobeidli to bring a touch of artistic splendor to the Ramadan game and empower local voices in the art industry. On a mission to support local brands, Flowwow shifts to promoting local art, upholding the rich cultural heritage of the Middle East. As Mariam Alobeidli crafted her artwork, she poured her heart and soul into each stroke, infusing her cherished childhood memories with the essence of Ramadan:Takias hold cultural significance, as many traditional living rooms lacked couches or chairs, relying instead on floor seating arrangements;Prayer beads as a sign of importance of prayer during Ramadan, the beads serve as a reminder of the Muslim connection to God during this sacred time;  "Dalla" (tea pot) highlights the cherished family gatherings, representing the warmth and hospitality shared among loved ones;The crescent moon is a nod to the traditional practice of announcing the start of Ramadan upon sighting the crescent moon; "Midfa'a" is the momentous occasion of breaking the fast. The sound of the midfa’a signals the end of the fast and the beginning of the Maghrib prayer. “Each of these elements holds deep cultural significance, not only within Ramadan but also within the broader Emirati heritage. These symbols serve as reminders of our traditions, values, and the importance of community and faith, and I was honored to incorporate them into the game”, added Mariam Alobeidli. The deck includes 30 uniquely designed cards, with each card featuring a profound question for every day of Ramadan. These questions aim to foster deep conversations, create shared moments of joy, and embody core ethical principles during the Iftar evenings.Commenting on the brands’ special launch Slava Bogdan, Flowwow ?EO and co-founder, added: “The holy month of Ramadan often sees an increased emphasis on gifting, reflecting a culture of generosity and celebration within UAE families and communities. As a gifting marketplace it’s our mission to bring the Emirati people something truly unique and meaningful this Ramadan, reflecting the core spiritual values of the sacred month. In response to this demand we decided to create the "Ramadan Moments" card game with a fusion of local artistry. So, our aim in developing this game was to not only provide a thoughtful aesthetic gift option but also to facilitate stronger interpersonal connections during this significant time." Mariam Alobeidli crafted the entire design concept and drew inspiration from the richness and diversity of Emirati culture, tight family values and the long-lasting tradition of gift-giving during the Holy Month.To play the game you have to pick a card daily and sincerely discuss answers, creating a ripple of honesty, integrity, and positivity throughout your home. Amidst conversations filled with love, laughter, and blessings, the “Ramadan Moments” adds a sprinkle of magic to make these occasions truly unforgettable.

Dubai: Yellow.ai has announced the appointment of Puneet Arora as Global President , taking yet another step towards driving hypergrowth and bolstering its position as a global leader in omnichannel AI-powered customer experience. In this strategic role, Puneet will lead the Go-to-Market teams across all markets, including North America, the Middle East, India, Asia-Pacific, Europe,, Latin America, and Africa.With a stellar growth trajectory, including a 10X global expansion over the last two years, Yellow.ai has reinforced its market leadership in India, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific. Continuing its expansion across North America, Europe, and Latin America, the company aims for an IPO in the coming years.“When Yellow.ai was founded, our vision was to establish a generational company that brings the power of AI-driven customer experience to billions of consumers and global enterprises, thereby leading one of the largest application software markets. Puneet joining us as Global President with experience in taking companies public and scaling global GTM teams in the customer experience market marks the next strategic move along that trajectory,” said Raghu Ravinutala, CEO & Co-founder, Yellow.ai. “As we lead the way in shaping the future of support with our customer experience automation platform, we are confident in Puneet's leadership and industry insights to scale Global GTM, shape our roadmap, and bolster Yellow.ai’s position as a leader and innovator in the industry.”Operating from San Francisco, Puneet will spearhead business growth by leading and scaling Global GTM, overseeing the sales, marketing, partnerships, delivery, support, revenue operations, and customer success teams. In his role, he will drive transformation, foster growth momentum, establish a strong North American market presence, and boost global expansion efforts. Speaking on his appointment, Puneet said, “I am thrilled to be part of the global growth story of Yellow.ai. Throughout my career, I've thrived by collaborating with teams established in the market but eager for growth, a spirit that Yellow.ai embodies. As a frontrunner in customer experience automation, Yellow.ai stands at a pivotal moment. Drawing from my experience in scaling businesses globally, I'm eager to cultivate strong partnerships across GTM teams, driving cohesive efforts for sustainable growth and market leadership.”A seasoned professional in the contact center sector, Puneet brings over 25 years of expertise in establishing and expanding high-velocity SaaS organizations. His track record includes pivotal roles at leading organizations including D2L, 8x8, Oracle, Liveperson, and Salesforce. He has proficiently scaled companies to multi-million ARR levels and navigated successful IPO journeys.Puneet’s appointment follows on the heels of recent leadership additions across Engineering and GTM globally: Madhav Chinta as VP Engineering, Henrik Petersen as VP Marketing - International Region, Sulabh Singhal as VP Global Professional Services, and Yeshas Prasad as VP Enterprise Sales, demonstrating the company's commitment to building a seasoned senior leadership team.

Dubai: Procter & Gamble (P&G) successfully concluded its third annual Women Entrepreneurs Academy. This initiative aimed to provide business development training for women-owned businesses, enabling them to take their businesses to the next level.The event showcased a comprehensive curriculum covering various topics, including Building Leadership Skills, Aligning and Executing Business Strategy, Empowering Advocacy, Maximizing Impact & Influence, Brand Building Strategy, Leveraging Technology, Making Inroads to MNCs, Financial Business Modeling, and Procurement Processes. Sixteen selected participants attended training sessions and networking opportunities with industry leaders, gaining valuable insights into critical business domains.The highlight of the event was the keynote speech by Her Excellency, Dr. Farah Al Zarooni, Assistant Undersecretary at Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT), as well as an engaging panel discussion featuring influential figures from P&G and prominent market leaders, including Dr. Sawsan Al Madhi, Founder of Alignneficient; Nadine Mezher, Co-Founder of Sarwa; Halima Jumani, CEO and Co-Founder of Kibsons; Dima Tahtah, P&G Sales Senior Director; and Ihinosen Ebinum, P&G Purchasing Senior Director, moderated by Suad Shamma, P&G Senior Corporate Communications Manager. This diverse panel fostered a dynamic exchange of ideas and perspectives.This initiative is part of P&G’s ongoing commitment to equality and inclusion, empowering women-owned businesses and accelerating progress towards achieving gender equality, a core focus of the UN Sustainable Development Goal #5. To date, the program has benefited over 500 women from 12 countries, enabling them to acquire the essential skills and knowledge needed to initiate and expand their businesses successfully.

Dubai: NEXA, a digital and growth agency based in the UAE, has announced a strategic investment in Cognition, a UK-based consultancy firm specializing in marketing psychology and brand creation. The partnership aims to expand the reach of both organisations while leveraging their combined expertise to deliver exceptional results for clients worldwide. The collaboration between NEXA and Cognition will create a formidable team of marketing and consulting professionals. NEXA brings expertise in digital marketing, lead generation, and growth strategies, while Cognition possesses deep knowledge in psychology, decision science, and demand generation. The two agencies have distinct but complementary strengths. Cognition specialises in brand messaging, proposition, and awareness, which are vital for elevating brands. Conversely, NEXA is a specialist in data-driven digital tactics specifically designed for business growth. Together, their specialisations enable them to offer comprehensive solutions to their clients. It also enables the team to deliver an integrated approach to marketing, leveraging cutting-edge digital strategies, profound insights into consumer behaviour, and effective brand activation techniques. The collaboration between NEXA and Cognition promises to provide clients with unparalleled marketing expertise. Furthermore, this strategic collaboration grants NEXA an exceptional advantage — direct access to the esteemed Cognition Scientific Board and its accomplished members. This exclusive privilege enables NEXA to harness the collective wisdom and expertise of the board's distinguished professionals, who are at the forefront of psychology, neuroscience, and marketing science. This direct access ensures that NEXA's strategies remain at the cutting edge of industry trends and are infused with the latest advancements in consumer behaviour insights. Additionally, the integration of Cognition's proprietary model, the Cognition Brain, into NEXA's digital marketing strategies opens the door to a myriad of applications and benefits. By leveraging principles from psychology and neuroscience, the Cognition Brain empowers brands to craft messaging that deeply resonates with audiences and drives impactful decision-making. This aspect of the collaboration reinforces NEXA's commitment to delivering not only data-driven strategies but also psychologically informed and insight-centric solutions for its clients. Amit Vyas, CEO of NEXA, said: "We're thrilled to invest in Cognition and join forces with their talented team. By combining our skill sets, we're confident we can accelerate growth for both our clients and ourselves, while expanding our reach to new markets. We're excited about the unique synergy between our organizations and the opportunities it presents for the future." Tim Witcherley, Managing Director of Cognition, added: "NEXA's investment is a testament to our shared vision of driving business success through innovation and digital transformation. We look forward to integrating Cognition’s scientific and creative capabilities with NEXA's digital marketing expertise to create a truly comprehensive offering for our clients." Both NEXA and Cognition are committed to empowering businesses with the tools and strategies necessary to thrive in an increasingly digital world. This strategic investment is a key milestone in their shared mission to deliver exceptional value and sustainable growth for their clients, while expanding their global footprint. 

Riyadh: AliExpress, the global e-commerce platform, has announced an exclusive collaboration with Saudi football stars Salem Al Dawsari and Feras Al Brikan as brand ambassadors for the coming year, starting from the Ramadan season. This partnership aims to elevate the shopping experience for customers in the GCC region, merging online convenience with the charisma of these renowned athletes.In line with their commitment to customer satisfaction, AliExpress has also launched a series of Ramadan promotions in the GCC, featuring generous savings on a variety of products. Customers can avail of discounts and even stand a chance to secure digitally autographed football shirts from Salem Al Dawsari or Feras Al Brikan.Moreover, AliExpress offers expedited delivery, delivery guarantees, free shipping, hassle-free returns, and local customer service in Arabic to ensure a seamless shopping journey for all customers. This initiative aligns with their wider commitment to local economic growth in line with Vision 2030, offering a platform for local shoppers convenience and fun and supporting local vendors to expand their reach.

Dubai: Hyundai UAE announced the arrival of the all-new SANTA FE SUV in the country, with an ‘Open for More’ concept that conveys the model’s radical transformation centered on its new design. The fifth-generation SANTA FE enhances the midsize SUV’s city-friendly, adventure-ready appeal with a class-leading, terrace-like living space made possible by its longer wheelbase and larger tailgate opening. The longer wheelbase also allows the new model to offer enhanced third-row seating.“The SANTA FE’s has managed through 23 years, succeeding in capturing the hearts of many customers across our region, this iconic SUV is now reborn” said Bryan Park, President of Hyundai Motor Company. “The All-New Santa Fe’s embodying the boundless outdoors and urban landscape, will establish an unrivaled presence in the mid-sized SUV segment.”“With the launch of the all-new SANTA FE SUV, Hyundai UAE reaffirms its dedication to pushing the boundaries of innovation, comfort, and sustainability. Infused with world-first and class-leading features, the car is a testament to our enduring commitment to excellence, driven forward by our ‘Open for More’ concept that encapsulates our ambition to offer customers unparalleled experiences, blending urban elegance with adventurous spirit. By introducing the fifth-generation SANTA FE to the UAE market, we continue to follow in the footsteps of the nation’s visionary leadership towards sustainability, envisioning a future where hydrogen mobility and eco-friendly technologies set new standards for the automotive industry.” said Suliman AlZaben, Director of Hyundai UAE.Exterior design: Bold SUV’s powerful presence reflects a growing outdoor lifestyle trendFor SANTA FE’s first full-model change since 2018, Hyundai Motor adopted an unusual design strategy by starting from the enlarged tailgate area to better facilitate the enjoyment of the outdoors and then moving on to design the exterior. The new model’s efficient, boxy shape and long wheelbase help convey a powerful presence while the strong yet delicately crafted external design is well-suited to both urban and nature-focused settings.The all-new SANTA FE’s front makes a strong first impression thanks to its high hood, H-shaped headlamps and sharply-defined fenders. Together, the H-shaped headlamps and lower front valance design draw inspiration from the Hyundai emblem to produce a bold and distinctive image.The longer wheelbase gives the all-new SANTA FE a sense of grandeur, its clean side sculpting complemented by a bold roofline, generous volume around the fenders, robust wheel arches, a shorter front overhang and bold designed 21-inch wheels.The rear view, distinguished by its wider tailgate, reinforces the sense of solidity while creating a simpler, sculptural look. The H-shaped taillights harmonize with the front H-lights to provide the all-new SANTA FE with a distinctive presence on the road.Interior design: Horizontal and vertical design elements neatly convey a solid SUV characterSANTA FE’s all-new interior contrasts with the exterior by emphasizing horizontal and vertical design elements and matching the tone and mood of the exterior. An H-shaped design is applied to the dashboard and air vents to enhance the sense of openness and create a unique design balance.The new interior comes with useful convenience features, such as a UV-C Sterilization Tray and dual wireless charging system for smartphones, to create a sophisticated user experience with SUV-like practicality. SANTA FE’s first-in-class Panoramic Curved Display, which encompasses the 12.3-inch digital cluster and infotainment system, enhances driver visibility and creates a sense of luxury.With the longer wheelbase, the all-new SANTA FE offers class-leading interior space. Fully foldable second-and third-row seats create a terrace-like space at the rear with the wider tailgate open, enabling users to enjoy the outdoors effortlessly. This appealing design feature reflects Hyundai Motor’s use of big data to identify customers’ interest in the latest outdoor lifestyle trends, such as car camping and gear-intensive adventures.Eco-friendly materials are used throughout SANTA FE’s interior for soft surfaces, such as the headliner, BCF car mats and seatbacks and coverings, such as the crash pad, door trim and seats. In particular, the leatherette seats are made of materials that minimize human health hazards and are certified as Class 1 in Europe -safe for infants up to 3 years old.The use of eco-friendly materials extends to the exterior as well. The glossy black paint applied to the exterior trim uses recycled carbon materials. Among the exterior colors, the Ecotronic Gray for North American markets uses a natural bamboo charcoal coating method.Practical body profile facilitates urban and outdoor activitiesThe all-new SANTA FE provides class-leading cargo capacity and a spacious tailgate opening, which is great for urban lifestyles and impresses in outdoor use, offering plenty of room for everything from sports equipment to camping gear. The new model maximizes outdoor functionality with Hidden-type Assist Handle, located in the C-pillar, for improved roof access.For the all-new SANTA FE, Hyundai prioritized living space by increasing the second-and third-row legroom. The SUV offers best-in-class third-row comfort (with third-row recline) and headroom improvements in response to customer feedback.The gasoline-powered SANTA FE’s second-row legroom’s length has increased by 35 mm to 1,075 mm. The hybrid’s second-row legroom’s length has increased by 20 mm to 1,055 mm. The third-row legroom’s length has increased by 15 mm to 761 mm.The SUV offers best-in-class third-row headroom as well. The third-row headroom’s height has increased by 69 mm to 958 mm. The third-row seating height has increased by 30 mm to 282 mm. The third-row seating reclines 10 degrees, an increase over the previous generation.Premium features enhance comfort and convenience in the city or outdoorsTo enhance the user experience, the all-new SANTA FE is packed with premium comfort and convenience features, several of which are either the world’s first, first-in-class, or class-leading. Among the all-new SANTA FE’s other convenience features is its high-speed, dual wireless charging system for smartphones. A C-type USB terminal (max. 27W) is also included. In addition, a first-of-its-kind, UV-C Sterilization Tray is applied to the top of the SANTA FE’s passenger glove compartment, providing easy sterilization of frequently used items, such as cell phones, wallets, etc.Radar-based Rear Occupant Alert (ROA) helps to remind the driver about rear occupants as a safety precaution after the ignition is turned off.Proactive driver assistance and safety features provide the confidence to drive confidentlyThe all-new SANTA FE is well-equipped with a host of driving assistance and safety features that reduce user involvement and provide a comfortable, confident driving experience whether simply commuting or on a weekend adventure.Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist 2 can provide a warning and emergency braking if the preceding vehicle suddenly slows down or if a forward collision risk is detected.Lane Following Assist 2 employs a windshield-mounted camera to help recognize vehicle drifting and helps provide slight steering inputs to return the vehicle back to the center of its lane.New Driver Attention Warning (DAW) analyzes the driver’s attention and can provide warnings when necessary. Driver Monitoring System (DMS), Hyundai Motor’s first in North America, analyzes a driver’s vital signs to help ensure safe driving.Among the SANTA FE’s other driver assistance and safety features are Intelligent Speed Limit Assist, Rear View Monitor, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, Front/Rear Parking Distance Warning, Surround View Monitor, Remote Smart Parking Assist, and Safe Exit Assist.Plenty of fuel-efficient power for city commutes and outdoor adventuresThe all-new SANTA FE will be available with two powertrain options. A gasoline 2.5-liter engine (Theta III 2.5 GDI – 8AT) with a maximum engine output of 194 ps and maximum torque of 25.1 kgf·m.

MoEngage, an industry-leading, insights-led customer engagement platform, has announced a strategic partnership with Artefact MENA, a leading global provider of data consulting, data science, AI technologies and marketing services. This joint effort will help global businesses utilize AI and data-driven strategies to dissolve siloes and transform into consumer-centric brands. Artefact is now part of the MoEngage Catalyst Partner program that is dedicated to helping brands scale at speed. Artefact’s experience in data consulting, data marketing and digital marketing activation by helping thousands of clients across different industries combined with MoEngage’s AI-powered functionalities driven by the proprietary AI engine Sherpa and Merlin AI will empower brands optimize their usage of data to boost growth and optimize ROI.Artefact’s joint partnership with MoEngage offers consumer brands a unique opportunity to break free from data silos across teams. This unified approach to data analysis and data-informed decision-making, backed by AI-powered insights ensures brands get high ROI across their marketing activities. ‘At MoEngage, we have always advocated for data-driven decision-making and strategizing. At the core of our innovative offerings, be it AI-enabled insights or campaign optimization, is the innate drive to help brands become more and more consumer-centric. Our partnership with Artefact further underscores our desire to help global consumer brands offer meaningful, contextual, relevant, customer-centric experiences utilizing our combined proficiency when it comes to data and AI’, said Sanjay Kupae, Head Alliances and Partnerships, MoEngage.Rahul Arya, CEO and Managing Partner of Artefact MENA, added: “This strategic partnership with MoEngage, marks a pivotal moment in advancing customer engagement and data-driven marketing strategies. This collaboration represents a shared commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions that drive tangible results and foster sustainable growth for our clients.”

Dubai: Varak, a Dubai-based luxury dessert brand, has opened its first boutique store in Business Bay. Founded in 2020 by the dynamic duo of Preet and Diva, Varak embarked on a mission to redefine the luxury dessert scene in Dubai. With Preet's Swiss hospitality background and Diva's pastry prowess, the duo started crafting delectable treats from the cosy confines of their home kitchen. As demand grew, so did the Varak family, expanding to a team of seven dedicated members.After 20 months of hard work and dedication, Varak took a leap of faith and utilised their own savings to move to a smaller space in Business Bay in November 2021. The boutique not only offered cakes but also introduced a fresh perspective on edible gifting, captivating UAE residents with their artisanal panned nuts and brittles.Recognising the need for expansion, Varak secured significant funding in 2023, propelling them into a new era of growth and innovation. With the support of a seasoned angel investor with a portfolio including Addmind, Sunset Hospitality, Trove Dubai Mall, and Neat Burger, Varak opened its new store in Churchill Tower, Business Bay, and transitioned to on-demand services, solidifying its position as a leader in the luxury dessert market.Varak's new boutique store in Business Bay offers an exquisite array of afternoon tea cakes, desserts, florentine barks, gateaux, and bespoke treats that cater to every whim and fancy. Varak's legendary Trifles are the perfect dessert for hosting colleagues, friends, and family. Their travel cakes are the quintessential pound cake loaves, perfect for morning or evening coffee, while their nuts and brittles make for the ideal personal or gifting snacks. Varak focuses on celebrating with its cakes and appreciating with its gifting range, offering the ultimate indulgence for those who crave a taste of luxury. The new store now allow customers to indulge in their favourite delights alongside a slice of cake and coffee.Looking ahead, Varak is poised for further expansion and innovation. In 2024, the brand plans to extend its reach into Abu Dhabi and Dubai Duty-Free, offering its luxurious treats to a broader audience. Additionally, Varak aims to streamline its delivery operations, ensuring that fresh cakes are delivered within a two-hour window across all emirates. Varak's journey from a home kitchen to a boutique store embodies the spirit of entrepreneurial resilience and ingenuity, making it a shining star in Dubai's vibrant culinary landscape.

Snap Inc. has officially opened the virtual doors for its pioneering AR Ramadan Mall. Building on the success of two previous editions, the AR Mall returns with a creative makeover for 2024. For the first time, users will be able to explore luxury pop-up boutiques, enjoy an impressive new design for Eid, and visit directly from the Apple Store. Hosting 11 leading brands across five shopping verticals including beauty, fashion, auto and F&B, the AR mall will come to life through a 360 degree multi-level virtual marketplace.Elevating the traditional shopping experience through the power of AR, users can engage with their favourite retailers in an immersive way. Browsing the Mall’s offerings from the comfort of their homes, Snapchatters can also share products directly with friends and family on the platform. Snapchat is the number one app of choice for staying connected, and the AR Mall serves as a digital extension of cherished moments during the Holy month, a time when coming together matters most. The distinctive pop-up boutiques available throughout the Mall is a first for 2024, mirroring real life luxury brand concept stores which spotlight dedicated product ranges - highlighting Snap’s dedication to create more innovative shopping encounters.Last year, the AR Mall achieved an average play time of 26.3 seconds and a 33% increase in visitors from the first edition in 2022. Promised to create an even more unforgettable journey for 2024, shoppers are invited to experience the transformed AR Mall with many surprises in store.Mohammed Bouarib, Senior Creative Strategist for Snap Inc. MENA, added: “The third edition of the Snap AR Ramadan Mall promises to be our most ambitious yet. It is believed that E-commerce will grow by 8% in the next five years with the MENA region leading this growth, and the updated 2024 Mall showcases how brands can creatively connect with shoppers online. With over 85% of MENA Snapchat users interacting with Lenses each day, our commitment remains to create experiences that defy expectations using our pioneering technology.”“From just four brands participating in our first edition, we are thrilled to now be partnering with 11 leading brands across the region, all bringing unique shopping adventures directly to the highly engaged audience on Snapchat. With the introduction of new technologies, enhanced experiences, and even greater opportunities for engagement such as the newly introduced Eid design and our Apple store takeover is paving the way for transformed online shopping. The increase in users last year demonstrated an appetite for immersive retail experiences, and we look forward to inviting new Snapchatters to the Mall this year”.The full list of brands found inside the Snap AR Ramadan Mall this year include:  Luxury:  Caroline Herrera  Givenchy  Fashion:  MAX  Rifi   Beauty:  Arabian Oud  AlMajed Oud  Faces  Food and beverage:  Domino’s Pizza  Lipton  Cadbury  Automotive:  BYDFurther embracing the spirit of Ramadan, the 2024 AR Mall will showcase a second design for Eid Al Fitr celebrations, illuminated with crescents and stars. Merging digital and physical worlds, Snap’s AR Mall provides an experience like no other.Users can enter Snap’s AR Ramadan Mall through the organic lens explorer and carousel feature on Snapchat between March 11th to April 14th.

Dubai: On International Women's Day, KRASOTA Dubai organised the SHE.FUTURE event, a celebration dedicated to honoring the empowerment and creativity of women. The jewelry partner of the event was international jewelry brand Parure Atelier. The event seamlessly blended haute cuisine, digital art, storytelling, and inspiring talks, uniting a community of entrepreneurs dedicated to uplifting and highlighting women's achievements. KRASOTA Dubai received prestigious recognition with the award of two toques by the Gault&Millau restaurant rating for 2024.The highlight of the evening, the "Imaginary Future" show, transcended mere visual spectacle, offering attendees a captivating multisensory journey that ignited their imagination. Seven potential future scenarios came to life through cutting-edge audiovisual technologies, harmonized under the roof of KRASOTA. A meticulously curated set menu by Michelin-starred chef Vladimir Mukhin further enhanced the experience, bringing to life imaginative visions of future cuisine. The kitchen's avant-garde flavor combinations and visually stunning presentations considered the future dramatic changes in humankind's existence, incorporating rare ingredients and unique recipes that blended both future concepts and digital art onto the plate. An interactive element was introduced as guests engaged in an arcade game during the show, presenting an opportunity to win beautiful and elegant stud earrings in white gold with sapphires and diamonds from Parure Atelier . Celebrating the essence of women's beauty and empowerment through exquisite jewelry creations, Parure Atelier's masterful craftsmanship and attention to detail added an extra layer of sophistication to the event.The picturesque KRASOTA Dubai terrace served as the backdrop for public talks, in partnership with Legends Art Club, highlighted the pivotal role of women in the arts. Distinguished speakers, Patricia Millns and Kourosh Nouri, shared their insights, journeys, and experiences, underscoring the importance of women's representation in artistic realms.Patricia Millns, FRSA, advisor, artist, and mentor, offered a unique perspective on the cultural significance of adornment and the heritage of the Middle East, advocating for the support and recognition of women in the art world. She remarked, "It seems an oxymoron in the world today with so many things happening, but through cultures and understanding each other's cultures to me is where everything in peaceful happens."Kourosh Nouri, founding Director of “Carbon 12.Dubai” gallery, provided intricate details about women’s heritage in modern art, emphasizing the feminine industry that permeates the art world. Celebrating women in the art industry, Kourosh stated that his extensive experience has shown that it is a feminine industry, whether it be curators, museum directors, or artists.Through the SHE.FUTURE event, KRASOTA Dubai not only celebrated the achievements of women but also created a space for dialogue, reflection, and a deeper exploration of art. KRASOTA Dubai expresses heartfelt gratitude to all participants, speakers, and collaborators who contributed to the success of the SHE.FUTURE event. The team's objective is to foster meaningful dialogue and honor the varied talents that contribute to shaping the cultural landscape. This event marks the initiation of the series, aiming to empower discussions and celebrate the rich diversity of artistic expression in the region.

Dubai: TBWA\RAAD has been recognized in Fast Company Middle East's prestigious list of Best Workplaces for Women in 2024. The inaugural edition of Best Workplaces for Women celebrates companies across the Middle East that effectively empower female employees at all levels by prioritizing their well-being, fostering inclusive work environments, and facilitating a conducive space for clear thinking, creative innovation, and work-life balance.TBWA\RAAD emerged as a standout amidst numerous nominations for its dedication to fostering gender equality and holistic empowerment within the workplace. This commitment is evident through a multifaceted approach, including the agency’s recruitment process, its revamped “Performance & Growth Program” promoting inclusivity and transparency in evaluations, and various employee-focused initiatives such as the “4 Weeks Work From Anywhere” benefit and the “Pause to Recharge” program.Commenting on the recognition, Reda Raad, CEO at TBWA\RAAD, said, "We are truly honored to be included in Fast Company's inaugural list of Best Workplaces for Women in the Middle East. This acknowledgment underscores our unwavering commitment to empowering women within our organization, fostering a culture that is genuinely supportive, flexible, and equitable, where women feel represented, engaged, and empowered to thrive."Addressing the launch of the list, Ravi Raman, Publisher of Fast Company Middle East, stated, "Best Workplaces for Women is an initiative we take great pride in launching, acknowledging organizations that are actively working towards gender equality. This list exemplifies the significant progress the Middle East is making in fostering more inclusive cultures, and we are delighted to spotlight their achievements."

Dubai, UAE: Brands For Less, the leading off-price retailer, has claimed first place in the GCC region's esteemed list of the Best Workplaces in Retail recognized by Great Places to Work Middle East. The announcement was made on March 7th, 2024, marking a momentous occasion for the renowned retailer.Brands For Less' recognition as the premier workplace in the retail sector underscores its commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive environment for its employees across the region. This accolade reflects the company's dedication to nurturing a culture of excellence, respect, and employee growth."We are very proud and honoured to have secured the first place in the GCC region’s list of Best Workplaces, in the retail sector," said Toufic Kreidieh, Executive Chairman of the Board and Group CEO of Brands For Less. "This achievement is a testament to our team's hard work, dedication, and commitment to creating a supportive and rewarding workplace environment wherever we operate worldwide."The acknowledgment of Brands For Less as the best workplace in retail highlights its ongoing efforts to prioritize employee well-being and professional development. Through innovative initiatives, workshops, and programs, Brands For Less empowers its employees to thrive both personally and professionally. This benefits individuals and contributes to the company's continued success and growth.

Dubai: The Baby Expo, the Middle East’s first international baby, toddler and maternity event, will take place at Dubai World Trade Centre on May 24 and 25, 2024.The event, a one-stop destination for all things related to pregnancy and early childcare, will bring together over 150 premium global mother, baby, and early years’ brands, showcasing thousands of products for parents and expectant parents to discover, try and purchase and an opportunity to access invaluable education from leading industry and healthcare experts. Spanning across 10,500 square metres, with more than 10,000 attendees anticipated over the course of two days, visitors can enjoy entertainment for all the family, take advantage of show-only exclusive discounts and special offers and engage with like-minded parents, while discovering new support networks for every step of the parenting journey.Hosted by entrepreneur, media personality and co-founder of The Baby Expo, Kris Fade, the event will welcome famous parents from around the globe including entrepreneur and social media superstar Joelle Mardinian and award-winning comedian Russell Kane alongside his wife Lindsey Kane and their age-defying supplement brand JOLT.Kris Fade said: “I’m excited to host Dubai's first Baby Expo, offering a unique platform for parents and parents-to-be. We recognise how overwhelming preparing for a baby can be, so we've curated a space that brings together industry experts, international brands, new parents and parent-to-be. This unique event provides parents with an immersive experience, offering them access to a comprehensive range of baby-related products and services, and the opportunity to freely ask questions, seek guidance, and confidently navigate their journey into early parenthood.”With the baby product market expected to grow by 71.4%, reaching US$168 billion by 2032, according to Global Market Insights1, there is huge demand for an event of this scale tailored to the mother, baby and toddler industry in the Middle East. Aiming to transform the industry in the region, The Baby Expo Dubai will provide a platform for the industry players to come together in Dubai every year, for networking, business development, shared learning and industry-wide collaborations.For brands seeking to reach key players in the Middle East, the event will deliver a Hosted Buyers Programme, providing exhibitors with the opportunity to hold pre-scheduled meetings with key decision-makers from the region’s leading retailers, distributors, pharmacies, supermarkets, e-commerce platforms and nurseries.Ashleigh Lloyd, Co-Founder of Baby Expo commented: “We're excited to introduce Dubai’s first Baby Expo this May, uniting global industry leaders in the mother, baby and toddlers’ sector, especially considering the significant growth expected in the baby products market over the next decade. We’ve provided brands with a unique platform to showcase their latest products and innovations, engage in networking opportunities and initiate important discussions on future market trends. Baby Expo also presents an ideal setting to forge large-scale collaborations between like-minded brands and nurture the consumer-brand relationship.”In addition to a line-up of high-profile, celebrity parents, The Baby Expo will provide two days of expert speakers, conferences and workshops covering topics ranging from caring for your newborn, life-saving first aid and sleep training to parent coaching, information and tips about giving birth and nutrition. Attendees will gain insights from experts and Mumpreneurs such as Julie Mallon, Kelly Marie Hodgkin, Amanda Jenner, Dr. Elena Andrioti, Dr. Tayara, Maysaa Fahour, Nicola Oliver, Lama Shamseddine and Mira Khleif, who will provide a wealth of information on entrepreneurial and parenting subjects.With an array of family-friendly entertainment lined up including Magic Phil, soft play areas, sensory activities, arts and crafts, baby massage sessions, face painting, and games, The Baby Expo has something to offer for all the family. Visitors can also look forward to mystery goody bags filled with vouchers and samples for bump, baby and mummy.Business BreakfastFor the industry, The Baby Expo will host a business breakfast offering engaging content tailored to elevate the global mother, baby and toddler industry, featuring insights from global brands and the Middle East’s industry leaders from across the sector. Through keynote sessions, panel discussions and interviews the business breakfast aims to unite industry experts to explore future market trends, challenges, and innovations, whilst encouraging industry-wide collaborations.In collaboration with leading brands in the baby, mother and toddler industries, Baby Expo presents an impressive lineup of partners including Platinum Sponsors Dabdub and King’s College Hospital Dubai; Gold Sponsors Stokke, Nabi, Bimbly and No More Lice; VIP Influencer Lounge Sponsor Cybex; Strategic Partner Fade Fit; Charity Partner Dubai Cares; and App Partner Qidz.Tickets for the event are on sale now from https://tickets.virginmegastore.me/ae/family/23470/the-baby-expo with 10% of all ticket proceeds being donated to ‘Gaza in our Hearts’, a Ramadan initiative set up by The Baby Expo Charity Partner, Dubai Cares, to support children and families in Gaza by providing emergency relief such as meals, food baskets, and waterproof and fire-resistant tents.

Saudi Arabia's National Development Fund (NDF) is making a significant investment in the burgeoning e-sports industry, announcing two new venture funds totaling $120 million (SAR 450 million) during the LEAP 2024 conference in Riyadh.The first fund, valued at $80 million (SAR 300 million) and managed by Merak Capital, focuses on fostering local talent and e-sports leadership. It will establish a gaming accelerator backed by venture investments, propelling Saudi companies to the forefront of the global scene.The second fund, managed by IMPACT46 with a value of $40 million (SAR 150 million), aims to stimulate private sector investment in the domestic gaming and e-sports landscape. This fund seeks to attract established firms and studios, bolstering their presence within the Kingdom.This move underscores Saudi Arabia's aspirations to become a major player in the global e-sports arena. The country has already hosted prestigious tournaments like the E-sports World Cup and continues to invest heavily despite industry-wide economic challenges.However, these investments have also drawn criticism. Some within the e-sports community view them as "e-sportswashing" – a tactic to mask human rights concerns through financial influence. The NDF, however, remains committed to its vision.Dr Stephen Grove, Governor of NDF, stated: "The global gaming and e-sports industry has witnessed explosive growth, generating significant revenue and job opportunities. With Saudi Arabia's young population and other attractive investment prospects, the NDF and our partners are prioritizing innovative financing solutions for this sector. We aim to ensure its long-term financial stability and contribute to the Kingdom's economic diversification and job creation goals."This investment signifies Saudi Arabia's commitment to e-sports, seeking not only to become a major player but also to nurture a sustainable domestic scene that fosters economic growth and job creation.

Kuwait's OptimizeApp, a leading ad-tech platform for SMEs, has joined forces with Snapchat in a strategic partnership. This collaboration aims to empower small and medium businesses across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region with powerful digital advertising solutions.Building on its track record of simplifying advertising for SMEs, OptimizeApp offers a user-friendly platform with localized interfaces, payments, and account management – perfect for regional needs.Partnering with Snapchat unlocks access to a highly engaged audience. With Snapchatters in the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) opening the app over 45 times a day, this is a prime opportunity for SMEs to reach new customers.Benefits for SMEs:Seamless Integration: OptimizeApp provides a smooth experience for integrating and optimizing Snapchat advertising solutions. Expert Guidance: SMEs will receive comprehensive education and support throughout their digital advertising journey with OptimizeApp.Campaign Management: Leverage OptimizeApp's expertise in creative development, campaign management, and reporting to maximize the value of advertising budgets.This partnership highlights both companies' commitment to "democratizing digital advertising." By equipping SMEs with the tools and knowledge they need, OptimizeApp and Snapchat are empowering businesses to thrive in the ever-evolving digital landscape.Bader Alkazemi, Founder & CEO of OptimizeApp, said: "We're excited to partner with Snapchat to empower SMEs across MENA. Our platform offers a comprehensive solution, helping businesses launch and manage effective digital ad campaigns."Freijeh, VP of Snap Inc. MENA, said: "We're thrilled to join forces with OptimizeApp to support SMEs. Through partnerships like this, we believe we can significantly help them reach a wider audience and drive real results."

Dubai: Ahmed Perfume, a UAE-based manufacturer of oriental and western perfumes, has announced plans to add a number of retail stores to its strong network of 150 stores across the UAE, Saudi Arabia and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region.Of the 150 retail stores, 75 of them are located in the UAE, 15 in Saudi Arabia, 15 in Oman, 20 in Bahrain, 17 in Qatar and three serving customers in Kuwait. With more than 1,000 employees, it serves a customer base of 50,000 in the UAE mostly comprising of Emirati and Arab customers who love the oriental fragrances.Ahmed Perfume produces a wide range of oriental perfumes, including oud, bukhoor, oil-base high-quality perfume blends as well as spray-based occidental fragrances.The GCC fine fragrances market size is expected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.5 percent to US$19 billion by 2032 from US$12.4 billion in 2022, according to a report by Market 24X7.“The GCC fragrances market is influenced by several key factors including an affluent consumer base that has a penchant for luxury products, making it a lucrative market for fine fragrances, increased tourism inflow, as well as cultural significance with a tradition of wearing perfumes that dates back centuries. This cultural affinity drives the demand for fine fragrances,” the report says.Established in 2000 by Kafeel Ahmed, a Non-Resident Indian (NRI) fragrance specialist, who turned his passion and expertise into a global enterprise that serves hundreds of thousands of customers in more than 20 countries in the world.It also exports perfumes to the United Kingdom, Europe – in Bulgaria and Italy, Azerbaijan and a few other Central Asian destinations as well as Chicago and Dallas in the United States, where the local distributors maintain its presence.It has a large manufacturing plant in Ajman from where the products are manufactured, packaged and shipped to its network of retail outlets and distributors across the world. The company plans to open at least five new outlets in Saudi Arabia, where business is growing due to ongoing economic reforms and massive infrastructure development.“For more than two decades, we have been developing the business and our products quietly without publicity. Despite that, we have gained more than 50,000 loyal customers in the UAE and hundreds of thousands of customers across the world. We didn’t put much efforts in marketing, advertisement or branding exercise for the last 23 years – as our business grew organically through the word of mouth,” says Kafeel Ahmed, Founder and Chairman of Ahmed Perfumes.“However, we now live in a competitive world dominated by marketing, branding, advertisement and social media. As we seek to grow further and expand our customer base to make it more cosmopolitan and diverse, we are introducing new products that appeal to a wider variety of customers who perhaps would like to see them on social media or the press before purchasing or trying them.“Hence, we are now embarking on a journey that will help us gain more customers from all across the world and help us reach a global audience, especially those who are young and trendy. As we strengthen our existing clientele with more value-added and creative product line, we are also expanding by inspiring the youngsters to try our trendy new fragrances.”Ahmed Perfume distinguishes itself from many other perfume manufacturers in the market through high-quality mixing of perfumes. “We mostly maintain a 60:40 ratio in favour of oil – that helps the fragrance to last long,” says Kafeel Ahmed. “Due to a number of quality attributes, quality conscious customers come to our stores to buy their favourite products. This is why the number of our customers are increasing by the day that necessitates expansion.”

Jeddah: Chiliz, the leading SportFi company behind the Chiliz Chain and Socios.com platform, has announced a strategic investment and partnership with Grintafy. Grintafy is the premier talent discovery platform for aspiring footballers in the Middle East. This collaboration positions Chiliz as a strategic investor and partner, aiming to support both companies' growth and development. With almost 2 million users, Grintafy has already received substantial investment from state-owned Saudi Aramco Waed Ventures. It has formed partnerships with leading football organizations across the Middle East, alongside clubs in some of the world’s most prestigious leagues, including LaLiga and the Premier League, as well as elite academies globally. AwardedSportsTech Startup of the Year by Gitex, Grintafy will now benefit from Chiliz’s unique technological infrastructure, ecosystem, and expertise to facilitate its transition into web3, using blockchain for various use cases such as player ratings, rankings, and performance certifications. Moreover, by gaining access to Chiliz's vast network of sporting and technology partners, Grintafy will not only amplify its platform but also contribute to the advancement of Saudi football internationally. Daniel Maglietta, Football Commercial Director for Chiliz, will play a pivotal role as a key advisor to Grintafy in its internationalization efforts.  This collaboration will, therefore, open new opportunities for young Saudi athletes, fostering the game's evolution in the region with a philanthropic approach to nurturing future talent. The investment in Grintafy marks Chiliz's first foray into the rapidly evolving Saudi football scene as it launches operations in Riyadh to back football projects in line with Vision 2030’s tech-driven transformation goals.  The move not only underscores the company’s commitment to Saudi football's growth and internationalization but also aims to connect major European football teams with Saudi talent, highlighting the investment in local companies to foster industry opportunities. The agreement also promises reciprocal benefits for Chiliz's 60+ sporting partners, offering them Grintafy’s expertise, knowledge, and network within Saudi Arabia. Alex Dreyfus, CEO of Chiliz and Socios.com, commented: “This investment is a strategic move that brings value to both Grintafy and the Chiliz ecosystem, while also supporting the broader vision of Saudi football. Together, we aim to both support the local talented players and global football powerhouses in their investments in the Kingdom. We want to be one of the digital bridges of Vision 2030, between Europe, South America & Saudi Arabia.”Majdi Allulu, Founder and CEO of Grintafy, said: “In searching for our next investor/partner, we tried to be strategic, in that Grintafy seeks a company that has their vision aligned with ours. Chiliz is not just a leader in the sports web3 space, but it also shares our vision to change the game in the sports tech space and our commitment to support football's growth in the Middle East. That's why we are so happy with this strategic investment, which lays the foundations of a new vertical that will enable our dreamer with more tools and technologies to make it. We are incredibly excited to leverage the Chiliz network.”

Abu Dhabi: Etihad Cargo, the cargo and logistics arm of Etihad Airways, is officially launching Sales Cockpit, a digital sales optimisation tool that will enable the carrier to enhance customer relationships and add value to its partnerships.Etihad Cargo partnered with Netherlands-based Rotate in May 2023 to co-develop Sales Cockpit with the aim of utilising data and machine learning to improve customer service and gain a more in-depth understanding of the carrier's partners and customers. Using custom-built algorithms to analyse data, Sales Cockpit generates tailored and customisable recommendations on how users can strengthen customer relationships by identifying current and future opportunities.Etihad Cargo and Rotate have completed the co-development and delivery of the first-of-its-kind tool. The carrier will now roll out Sales Cockpit globally, providing its commercial teams with access to updated data analysis and a real-time snapshot of Etihad Cargo's business on particular routes, with individual customers and by product.Stanislas Brun, Vice President Cargo at Etihad Cargo, said: "The successful co-development and completion of Sales Cockpit in partnership with Rotate will benefit Etihad Cargo's partners, as sales representatives and account managers are empowered by data to have more meaningful interactions with customers. The tailored recommendations provided by this innovative tool will help Etihad Cargo deliver a more efficient and seamless customer journey and boost sales, helping the carrier to develop stronger partnerships and help customers achieve their business objectives."Ryan Keyrouse, Chief Executive Officer at Rotate, said: "Co-developing Sales Cockpit with an innovative partner like Etihad Cargo gave us unique access to an expert team to rapidly build and validate the solution. The collaboration helped maximise adoption, as both Head Office and local teams were involved throughout its development. We are immensely grateful to the whole Etihad Cargo team for the enthusiasm and energy they put into this project."Over 50 Etihad Cargo team members were involved in the co-development of Sales Cockpit, contributing over 1,000 of the total 6,000 development hours. During the development phase, Rotate and Etihad Cargo's steering team visited ten of the carrier's global stations in 20 weeks, allowing improvements to be implemented in real time following feedback from Etihad Cargo's teams.Etihad Cargo's sales representatives and commercial teams will now be using Sales Cockpit globally to gain visibility of the carrier's key accounts across its entire network. This will enable them to benchmark regional performance and identify opportunities on a global scale to help customers meet their tonnage targets.Brun concluded: "Etihad Cargo and Rotate's partnership has enabled the carrier to provide its expertise to help unlock the full potential of digitalisation. Sales Cockpit will benefit not only Etihad Cargo and its customers but also has the potential to transform how other carriers in the wider air cargo community access the vast amounts of data available and use it to start having more meaningful and engaging conversations with their customers."

Dubai: Four Points by Sheraton, part of Marriott International’s portfolio of hotel brands, has announced the opening of Four Points by Sheraton Al Ain. The conversion property provides business, government, leisure and sports visitors with a classic Four Points by Sheraton warm and welcoming experience.The opening marks the fifth Four Points by Sheraton in the UAE and has been rebranded, refreshed, and operationally upgraded to blend comfort with style. The hotel will showcase the following features: An updated spacious lobby and lounge area for guests to relax and unwind  218 refreshed, modern, comfortable rooms  33 suites with kitchenettes, lounge areas and balconies  Enhanced meeting room facilities for business guests including a large, welcoming pre-conference hall  An expanded function hall and ballroom for weddings and larger events  An improved Sundeck Pool Café for cool refreshments and healthy snacks, and a micro-brews café concept for coffee lovers  24,000 square meters of built-up area including a tennis court and Olympic-size swimming pool  A modern fitness centre featuring a gym, sauna, and steam room  A male salon and spaIn a statement released today, Khaled Saab, Area General Manager for Residence Inn by Marriott Sheikh Zayed Road and Four Points by Sheraton Al Ain expressed his enthusiasm for the official unveiling of the rebranded property to the public. He remarked, "Al Ain is set to become the future sustainable and cultural destination in the UAE for environmental leisure and entertainment. As such, we are thrilled to announce our grand opening, inviting guests to experience our enhanced amenities, refreshed facilities and beautiful location. We’re ready to provide an unforgettable stay for all visitors to Al Ain."Ramzy A. Faris, General Manager of Four Points by Sheraton Al Ain added, "As we embark on this exciting journey with Four Points by Sheraton Al Ain, we are thrilled to welcome guests to our newly transformed property. With our commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality, we are poised to become the preferred choice for business, government, leisure, and sports travellers in Al Ain. We look forward to providing an unparalleled guest experience and creating lasting memories for all who visit."For leisure and tourism travellers, the hotel boasts a prime location, minutes from Al Ain's top attractions. From the iconic Sheikh Khalifa Mosque to the thrilling Al Ain Zoo, the adventurous Wadi Adventure, and the majestic Jebel Hafeet, guests are spoiled for choice. Sports enthusiasts can catch the action at Hazaa bin Zayed Stadium, while families can enjoy the excitement of Hili Fun City. Additionally, cultural explorers can delve into the city's rich history at Hili Archaeological Park, Al Jahili Fort, and the bustling Al Ain Camel Market. Nature lovers will marvel at the breathtaking views from Jebel Hafeet, the UAE's tallest peak, and unwind in the soothing hot springs scattered across Al Ain. Nestled amidst the scenic Hajar Mountains on the UAE-Oman border and renowned as the 'Garden City' for its lush greenery, Al Ain offers an unforgettable experience for sustainable adventurers.

Brand Dubai, the creative arm of the Government of Dubai Media Office, has partnered with several Dubai-based restaurants, cafes and renowned chefs to launch the fifth edition of the ‘Ramadan Recipes Guide’, featuring 30 original recipes.The collaborative initiative is part of the #RamadaninDubai campaign, which was launched by the Dubai Media Council last week under the directives of Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council (DMC). The campaign merges the efforts of various entities to bring the vibrance and joy of Ramadan celebrations to people across the city.The guide introduces the public to Dubai’s vibrant culinary offerings and provides them with an opportunity to hone their culinary prowess by recreating unique dishes inspired by menus from Dubai’s most talked-about restaurants and cafes. Curated by Brand Dubai, the digital Guide features easy-to-follow Ramadan recipes crafted by 10 restaurants and cafes, as well as 10 chefs. Highlighting the city's passion for culinary excellence, the guide aligns with Brand Dubai's commitment to enhancing the visibility of promising local businesses and talent.Shaima Al Suwaidi, Director of Brand Dubai, said: “We are delighted to collaborate with restaurants and cafés from Brand Dubai’s ‘Proudly from Dubai’ network, along with renowned Dubai-based chefs, to launch the eagerly anticipated ‘Ramadan Recipes Guide’. Through this annual initiative, our aim is not only to support innovative homegrown businesses and showcase the creativity of talented chefs, but also to engage the public in culinary creativity by encouraging them to prepare unique meals inspired by innovative recipes.”Al Suwaidi added that the guide will ignite the Dubai community's passion for excellence and exploring new culinary concepts. “The initiative celebrates the diversity of Dubai's gastronomic scene and its unique cultural blend, reinforcing its prominent role as a hub for creative talent across all sectors,” she said.The newly-launched guide offers a delightful array of traditional and modern recipes perfect for both Iftar and Suhoor. Providing detailed instructions, the guide helps families create mouthwatering dishes, spanning from appetisers, soups, and salads to main courses, desserts, smoothies, and Suhoor specialties.Catering to diverse tastes, the recipes draw inspiration from a rich variety of culinary traditions, including Emirati, Mediterranean, Italian, Indian, Japanese, French and Afghani cuisines.Many of the recipes featured in the guide have been developed by celebrity chefs who have embarked on their culinary journey in Dubai, with some even establishing their own restaurants. The chefs, representing various nationalities, also have a huge social media following, with some even earning a Michelin star for their high-quality dishes. The chefs that have shared their special recipes for the guide include: Vincent Le Moal; Meera Eisa Alnaqbi; Sheikha Hessa Al Khalifa; Alexander Stumpf; Célia Stoecklin; Abeer Ibrahim Allouz; Aysha Al Obeidli; Christophe Devoille; Tim Newton; and Faisal Alharmoodi.Outlets participating in the initiative include: Moon Slice; Kishmish; Milk Bakery; Plain; Parkers; Mara Lounge; T?RI; Trèsind; 3Fils; and La Maison Ani.‘Proudly from Dubai’ is an initiative of Brand Dubai that aims to tell local and global audiences the success stories of entrepreneurs, creative talent and innovative businesses that were born and initiated in the emirate, with the aim of raising their visibility. It also seeks to tell the story of innovation and creativity shaping Dubai’s emerging business and entrepreneurial culture.

Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) has announced the commencement of a series of diverse Ramadan public enjoyment events and activities. These aim to highlight the authentic social customs and traditions that characterise Ramadan in Dubai. The lineup includes the launch of the fifth edition of its humanitarian Ramadan Heroes initiative and the organisation of ‘Ramadan Nights’ in its cultural and heritage venues. This comes as part of the Authority’s support for the ‘Ramadan in Dubai’ festivities initiated by the Dubai Media Council in partnership with several government and private entities.In line with its social responsibility commitment, Dubai Culture, in collaboration with talabat UAE, long-term partner and initiative cofounder, and the Emirates Red Crescent (ERC) launched the 5th Ramadan Heroes. This initiative aligns with the Authority's social commitment, promoting community unity and humanitarian efforts, building on the success of its past editions.Through the fifth edition of the initiative, under the slogan ‘Celebrating the Gift of Giving’, Dubai Culture aims to support underprivileged community members by encouraging the public to donate Iftar and Suhoor meals and talabat Mart Ramadan Boxes by using the Ramadan Heroes Virtual Restaurant on the talabat UAE application, to be safely and quickly delivered to beneficiaries across the country in coordination with the field teams of the Emirates Red Crescent.Shaima Rashed Al Suwaidi, Director of the Marketing & Corporate Communication Department at Dubai Culture, highlighted the profound humanitarian solidarity inherent in the local community, epitomised by the ‘Ramadan Heroes’ initiative, saying: “Through its projects and initiatives, the Authority continues to fulfil its social mission fostering a spirit of public solidarity, enhancing the culture of giving, and strengthening bonds of compassion by contributing to alleviating the burdens on the underprivileged and meeting their needs and requirements during the holy month. Ramadan Heroes celebrates the authentic values of giving and offers a platform for philanthropic engagement, thereby reinforcing the UAE's global humanitarian stance. With the support of the UAE Red Crescent Authority and talabat UAE, the initiative has a significant societal impact by reinforcing tolerance and promoting the culture of generosity that is an integral part of the Emirati social fabric.”Dubai Culture is also organising a series of activities across its assets, themed ‘Ramadan Nights,’ the first of which will be celebrated at the Etihad Museum on 15 and 16 March, revolving around the UAE's involvement in the development and construction of the lunar space station. There will be a series of entertainment shows and workshops in collaboration with the Dubai Astronomy Group and Gulf Photo Plus, allowing visitors to explore the secrets of space and planets through a mobile planetarium and observation stations with telescopes.As part of ‘Ramadan Nights’, visitors to Al Shindagha Museum, the UAE’s largest heritage museum, from 22 to 31 March, will have the opportunity to experience various Ramadan-linked activities inspired by local heritage. The Traditional Crafts House will host a workshop on traditional ‘Mukhawara’ making, introducing the features of traditional attire and associated embroidery. In the ‘Safeefa Rug Tufting workshop, participants will learn carpet weaving techniques using palm fronds. Visitors to the Perfume House will discover the secrets of making scented candles and eco-friendly chimney design methods, as well as creating unique fragrances. Interactive workshops will engage children in creative arts using gypsum, teach henna preparation, instruct on crafting traditional Emirati jewelry, and offer playtime with folk games like 'Al Karabi' and Tug of War.Through the ‘Bu Tebaila Walk’, Dubai Culture revives the tradition of ‘Steps of Suhoor’. Families and children will have the opportunity to accompany Bu Tebaila on a tour through the houses of Al Shindagha Historical Neighbourhood, chanting traditional folk songs and rhymes. The Authority, in collaboration with the ‘EmpowerHer’ initiative, will organise a Ramadan market featuring a wide range of products created by creative talent to motivate them to showcase their work publicly. For 10 days, the museum’s Visitor Centre will transform into an area where visitors gather to enjoy the Ramadan atmosphere and special Suhoor meals provided by various vendors, including Chef Maitha, Dubai Food Babes, Sultan Eats, and others. 

CleverTap, the all-in-one engagement platform today announced that Swan, one of UAE’s most trusted groceries and home services app, achieved a 40% boost in view rates of email campaigns after leveraging CleverTap’s tools. Swan is an app-based e-commerce platform that strives to create a personalized shopping experience for each customer. Established in 2019 in the UAE, Swan has grown from a small e-commerce app to one of the biggest and most trusted e-commerce applications for groceries and home services in the UAE.  Recognizing the value in users who already have the app installed, Swan sought to ensure they keep returning to make transactions. To achieve successful engagement with this base, the key focus areas were: building precise target segments, crafting effective incentives and messages, and pinpointing the optimal timing and channels to maximize engagement. Robust measurement at each stage was critical to determine the effectiveness of messages, channels, and timing, individually.  Swan found the ideal solution for enhancing customer engagement through CleverTap’s comprehensive and integrated approach. Leveraging CleverTap’s smart segmentation capability, Swan organized users into groups based on their transaction activity. They conducted extensive A/B testing for creatives and content that were regularly used as part of their messaging strategy. By employing multiple channels based on specific contexts, they found that emails and push notifications were most effective in reactivating dormant users. Personalized experiences were crafted for each user through message customization. Swan relied extensively on the Analytics feature to assess the impact of their campaigns.  Deploying CleverTap helped Swan achieve the following:40% boost in view rates of email campaigns thanks to systematic experimentation on content and creativeSwan saw a 3% activation rate of targeted dormant usersReactivation campaigns drove a 15% share of incremental orders Solomon George, Managing Director, Swan, said, “CleverTap's combination of analyticsand orchestration has been integral to Swan’s growth and customer engagement journey. With CleverTap’s user-personalization prowess, we were able to drive 15% of incremental orders from reactivation campaigns alone. This level of growth across multiple cohorts and periods solidifies Swan as a reliable and trusted shopping companion.” Sidharth Pisharoti, Chief Revenue Officer, CleverTap, said, “Reactivating dormant users is essential for modern businesses, especially with the exorbitant customer acquisition costs of today. It opens up a new realm of untapped potential for any app-first business . Partnering with an industry frontrunner like Swan, we witnessed this notion play out in full swing. Swan saw a 40% boost in view rates of email campaigns after deploying our all-in-one platform. It’s a testament to our platform’s prowess in driving unmatched customer engagement. We’re excited to bring more such significant wins for Swan in the future.”

UAE: Metro Brazil, the leading retail and eCommerce company for Brazilian shapewear in the Middle East, expanded its operations into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) with its commitment to enhance the growing retail sector. Projections indicate a substantial expansion of the KSA retail market, anticipated to reach USD 54.46 billion by 2028. Metro Brazil is poised to leverage this growth with its state-of-the-art eCommerce platform, and best in class products, addressing the evolving demands of the fashion retail market.Notably, the Saudi Arabian eCommerce market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15.01 per cent to reach USD 27.37 billion by 2029. This upward trajectory in eCommerce revenue is poised to make a significant and positive impact on the overall economy of KSA. The growth of the market is attributed to several factors such as rising consumer spending power and economic diversification under Vision 2030, aiming to boost productivity and become one of the largest economies in the world, especially in line with their plans for Riyadh Expo 2030.By expanding into the region, Metro Brazil aims to tap into the thriving market, leverage opportunities for growth, and contribute significantly to the flourishing economy, all while adhering to their global expansion goals.Alaa Kara Ali, CEO of Metro Brazil, commented: “Our expansion into the KSA market marks a pivotal milestone in our journey. This strategic step reaffirms our unwavering commitment to innovation, customer-centricity, and global growth. Our mission is to provide unparalleled choices in luxury fashion shapewear, tailored precisely to the discerning tastes of customers across the KSA region. Thorough market research studies were conducted by our team of experts to understand Saudi consumers’ demands, preferences, and purchasing habits. With a steadfast focus on technological innovation, we will deliver a seamless and secure shopping experience that precisely caters to the unique demands of the market. We look forward to establishing the company as the ultimate destination for premium Brazilian brands through various strategic partnerships and investments, thereby enriching individuals’ confidence.”Metro Brazil’s research is centred on customising online shopping experience to successfully meet the expectations of KSA customers by taking into account the cultural nuances and fashion trends as well as incorporating local payment methods. While the KSA eCommerce market is growing positively, the UAE market is projected to reach USD 9.2 billion in 2026, creating an opportunity for Metro Brazil's success in both these markets.Furthermore, to capture a considerable size of the KSA shapewear and stocking market which is projected to reach a market size of more than USD 7 million by 2028, the company will officially open physical showrooms in Riyadh and Jeddah, as part of their new expansion strategy, bridging the gap between traditional retail experiences and the digital marketplace.Additionally, the company’s plans include collaborations with local finance and investment organisations, such as Growth Venture Capital, Investment Pools, and Angel Investors, as well as access to emerging markets and incentives for technological advancements. Metro Brazil’s strategic plans will set new industry benchmarks, placing a strong emphasis on unparalleled customer experience, improved security, and dynamic user engagement.

Dubai: Dubai Holding, a diversified global investment company with investments in 31 countries, today launched Gift It Forward, a Ramadan initiative organised in partnership with the Community Development Authority (CDA).Supporting the national #RamadanInDubai campaign, Gift It Forward will revitalise thousands of new items and products into distinctive, one-of-a-kind gifts, which will be distributed to over 8,000 blue-collar workers, as well as 500 low-income families supported by CDA.In collaboration with Dubai Holding Entertainment, Dubai Holding Real Estate, Dubai Holding Asset Management, Dubai Holding Hospitality Assets, Jumeirah Group, Dubai Community Management, TECOM Group, as well as supporting partners Azadea and Apparel Group and execution partner Goumbook, volunteers will assemble, package and distribute the new inventory items collected from Dubai Holding portfolio companies and partner retail brands. The items include clothing, stationery, books and accessories, among many others.In line with the Dubai Holding Sustainability Strategy, the repurposing of items into gifts for blue-collar workers and low-income families not only helps to reduce waste, but also reinforces the importance of mindful consumption with the value of giving.Huda Buhumaid, Chief Impact Officer, Dubai Holding, said: “Through Gift It Forward, an initiative that integrates environmental stewardship with social responsibility, we want to enrich the lives of those who work around the clock to ensure the essential services of our communities run seamlessly, while also encouraging the adoption of sustainable behaviours in line with our sustainability agenda. We believe that instilling the values of giving, community and responsibility, both within the Group and across the UAE, will create a socially and environmentally conscious generation, which will in turn undoubtedly contribute towards shaping a better tomorrow.”“Underscoring our long-standing belief that partnership and collective action are essential to achieve positive impact, this initiative will see hundreds of volunteers from across Dubai Holding’s businesses, CDA, Azadea and Apparel Group, participate in a series of volunteering events to assemble and deliver these gifts to blue-collar workers and low-income families across the UAE,” concluded Buhumaid.Huraiz Al-Murr bin Huraiz, CEO of Social Care & Development Sector in the Community Development Authority, added: “Gift It Forward embodies our commitment to elevate social engagement, perfectly aligning with the Holy Month’s core values of kindness and compassion. An array of carefully selected gifts will be distributed to more than 700 children, aiming to not only spread joy but also to foster a culture of giving and solidarity.”“Our collaboration with Dubai Holding is designed to bolster community empowerment and seeks to unlock further possibilities for broadening the reach of the Community Development Authority’s initiatives throughout the community,” Bin Huraiz added.The Gift It Forward initiative will commence on the first day of Ramadan and extend throughout the Holy Month, offering family-friendly volunteering options along the way. In addition, Dubai Holding's destinations, attractions and communities, including Global Village, Al Khawaneej Walk, Riverland Dubai, Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) and Boxpark Dubai, are commemorating Ramadan with a rich array of events and activities, including competitions, special decorations, late-night openings, Ramadan art exhibitions and stunning weekend fireworks.Continuing its robust community outreach and philanthropic efforts, this initiative builds on a series of impactful campaigns aimed at fostering a culture of giving and social responsibility. These include Dubai Holding’s partnership with the UN World Food Programme for the A Meal for a Brighter Tomorrow initiative and the contribution to the 1 Billion Meals Endowment campaign in Ramadan 2023, in addition to the ongoing partnership with the Dubai Blood Donation Centre to help promote health and wellbeing and the award-winning Life Goals campaign launched last year to boost financial literacy among blue-collar workers.

KSA, Riyadh: Brands For Less, a renowned off-price retailer, is proud to announce the opening of its 30th store in Saudi Arabia, located at The View Mall in Riyadh. This marks a significant milestone for the brand as it rapidly expanded its presence in the region within less than 2 years. This solidifies its commitment to serving its growing customer base across the GCC region with value and convenience."We are thrilled to unveil our 30th store in Saudi Arabia as part of our continued expansion plans in the region," said Toufic Kreidieh, Executive Chairman of the Board and Group CEO of Brands For Less. "The View Mall in Riyadh provides an ideal setting for our newest store, bringing in new customers, and we are excited to bring shoppers our unique shopping concept with exceptional value." Strategically positioned on the first floor, the new Brands For Less store promises shoppers various products, including fashion, accessories, toys, home essentials, and more, at unbeatable prices. With its prime location and diverse offerings, the store aims to redefine the shopping experience for residents and visitors of Riyadh alike.Operating hours for the Brands For Less store in The View Mall are Saturday to Thursday from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM and Friday from 2:00 PM to 11:00 PM.

In the true spirit of giving, Bookends, a Dubai-based bookstore and marketplace for preloved books, is hosting a Pay It Forward campaign throughout Ramadan. Stop by their store and select a complimentary book generously provided by another reader. Next, you pay it forward by buying a book, which will be added to the complimentary pile of books for the next person to select from, contributing to the shared delight of reading. The price for books at the store starts from as low as Dh5."Buying a second-hand book for someone as part of a 'Pay It Forward' gesture is a thoughtful and meaningful act," said Grace Karim and Somia Anwar, owners of Bookends, "By participating in this gesture, you're spreading joy and kindness to others and contributing to a positive cycle of goodwill in your community." And yes, when you give the book, let the recipient know that this gesture is part of a chain of kindness, and encourage them to do something kind for someone else in the future, whether it's buying a book or another act of generosity. Here's how you can go about it:Select a Book: Browse through the complimentary pile of books, and consider the person you're buying the book for — their hobbies, reading interests, etc. Write a Note: Include a thoughtful note with the book. You can also mention that it's part of a "Pay It Forward" gesture, encouraging them to do something kind for someone else in the future.Pay it Forward: Now, go ahead and purchase a second-hand book, which will be added to the complimentary pile of books for the next person to select from.What: Pay It Forward CampaignWhen: Throughout the month of RamadanWhere: Bookends, Dubai Digital Park, Silicon Oasis, DubaiFind attached a few supporting images. Let us know if you wish to speak to Somia or Grace for more information on the event and their venture. Please include this information in upcoming features or possible stories on books, reading platforms, things to do during Ramadan, and more.Get social with Bookends: https://www.instagram.com/bookendsae/

Dubai: MarTech giant Mitgo Group is launching a new cutting-edge business division - fintech services for affiliate publishers. According to conservative estimates, affiliate marketing spend reached $14.4 billion in 2023 and will exceed $15.7 billion this year. In the next three years, Mitgo plans to become a conduit for more than 7% of that transaction volume, which can be valued at more than $1.5 billion given the sector's growth. The first step in this direction is the acquisition of UAE-based embedded finance platform Embedded, whose team has extensive experience in fintech and will complement Mitgo's technology stack needed to enter a new market.The new division will include a set of solutions from the field of embedded finance. It will allow millions of publishers across the globe with a specific focus on currently underbanked audiences in MENA, APAC and LATAM regions to withdraw their earnings instantly instead of the standard waiting period of 60-120 days (that currently is a benchmark in affiliate marketing). They will also get access to loans, reduce transaction costs, reduce exchange commissions, improve transaction speed and get many other benefits. Last year, Mitgo Group has already successfully tested similar financial solutions within its businesses.Access to obtaining loans and other lines of financing will be one of the main advantages for publishers, as currently it is extremely difficult for them to open a credit line in standard financial organizations as the existing solutions on the financial market often don't recognize specifics of publishers' business. It causes a lack of availability of financial products for publishers, who're mostly SMBs.Mitgo Group's 15 years of experience in the affiliate marketing market while working with more than 100,000 active partners, as well as unique algorithms using AI and machine learning allow the company to accurately assess such borrowers and build a low-risk but very profitable loan portfolio from them.The embedded finance solutions allow leaders of the financial industry - major banks, payment systems, e-wallets and others - to expand their portfolio of customers and niche products in areas and countries which were previously too expensive and risky for them to enter.Mitgo Group's new business direction will become a guide to the vast world of affiliate marketing for selected partners from the circle of largest fintech organizations. In the coming years, the company plans to establish cooperation with the leading players of this market - global payment schemes and the world's largest financial institutions. With the help of the company's experts, they will have access to previously undiscovered potential, including millions of users and tens of billions of dollars worth of transactions that previously passed under the radar of financial organizations.“On top of other viable opportunities, our future partners from the financial industry will get both an excellent test site on the basis of a new market and a vast system of distribution of financial products among the audience of publishers: cashback-services, media buyers, loyalty programmes, BNPL services and many others. With our help, they will be able to offer a suitable set of solutions to hundreds of millions of their users around the world”, states Alexander Bachmann, founder and CEO of Mitgo Group.The new business direction will be led by Oleg Chanchikov, CEO and founder of Embedded, which is going to be acquired by Mitgo. Oleg has more than 20 years of experience in the IT and financial markets. He previously held senior management positions at Visa and other major financial and IT organizations.“The entire world, including global players in the financial market and international organizations such as the UN and World Bank, work to empower SMBs and make financial services more accessible for them. Embedded finance solutions help the market to grow not just from the top-down approach when a bank offers pre-defined products to the clients, but also from the bottom-up when the industries themselves use financial products to solve the needs and the problems in their core business. I believe, together with Mitgo Group, we will not just change the way the MarTech industry uses financial products but introduce revolutionary solutions that will change the whole market”, - states Oleg.

 Leading the charge in the digital engagement landscape, SOCIALEYEZ has announced the launch of its transformative repositioning and branding, including a new philosophy, “Create, No Matter What”. The new positioning underscores the company’s evolution as genuine Creative Strategists with eyes on everything social for organisations to build meaningful relationships with their audience.A powerhouse of creativity and strategy, SOCIALEYEZ serves as a company’s creative GPS – storytellers, tech geniuses and forward-thinking architects, all wrapped up in one innovative package."Our commitment to 'Create, No Matter What' reflects our dedication to genuine creativity and strategic innovation. As we celebrate 14 years of legacy, SOCIALEYEZ is poised to redefine the digital landscape and continue delivering impactful solutions to our clients," said Tarek Esper, Managing Director at SOCIALEYEZ.The key principles that support the brand positioning include:Real: Creativity is genuine, connections are sincere, and every action aligns with SOCIALEYEZ's identity.Love: Fueled by a deep passion for impactful work, SOCIALEYEZ goes above and beyond to create meaningful and influential outcomes.Drive: The energy behind 'Create, No Matter What', propelling SOCIALEYEZ forward, always pushing for the new, the next and the better.At the core of SOCIALEYEZ's ethos is the seamless integration of Insights, Strategy and Creativity, culminating in extraordinary outcomes. Insights serve as the inception of 'Create, No Matter What,' delving beneath the surface to unearth what truly matters. This meticulous approach ensures that every creative endeavour is purposeful, effective, and in harmony with clients' objectives.Meanwhile, Creativity takes centre stage as the heartbeat of 'Create, No Matter What,' crafting a real impact, seizing attention and leaving an indelible impression. SOCIALEYEZ's commitment to creativity is about making a meaningful mark that resonates.The company has unveiled its new brand at an internal launch event on March 7, 2024.

Supported by the UAE Marine Sports Federation, the UAE Team has won seven medals at the Qatar Aquabike Championship.The UAE Team secured the top three standings in the Professional GP Standing category, the top three standings in the Sitting Stock, and first place and best showmanship in the Freestyle category.

The 2024 Saudi Super Cup will be held in Abu Dhabi, thanks to a new partnership between the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) and the emirate's Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT Abu Dhabi).The Saudi Media Company, SAFF's marketing partner, facilitated the deal. The tournament will boast a "fresh" identity and "enhanced" branding, signifying a new era for the competition. "This partnership showcases Saudi culture through football," said Yasser Almisehal, SAFF President. "It attracts new fans, boosts tourism, and supports our growth."The collaboration focuses on sports tourism and marketing. It aims to highlight the progress and promising future of Saudi sports, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030's sports sector goals. "Abu Dhabi is a global sporting destination," said H.E. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, DCT Abu Dhabi Chairman. This tournament is one of many that solidify our position." The event takes place from April 8-11, 2024, featuring footballing superstars like Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema.

Dubai: TishTash Communications was recognized in the Fast Company Middle East's Best Workplaces for Women 2024 list, named for Empowering Women Through Bold Initiatives. The award-winning agency’s female-centric workplace offers flexible working for all staff including a 4.5-day week, continued hybrid working, a “work from home country” allocation each year and industry-leading women's health policies including paid leave for fertility treatments, menstruation and menopause.  Success can be seen in the numbers,  with a happy and loyal workforce, and award-winning marketing work. The 100% female agency has seen a 50% year-on-year increase for the past 3 years, with a 62% increase in turnover in the last 12 months (2022-2023), significant client wins and international expansion and over 45% of the team have been with the agency for more than five years. Hundreds of companies applied for Fast Company Middle East’s Best Workplaces for Women List, and a team of editors worked relentlessly, sorting and sifting through nominations to make the final decision. The Top 10 list recognized companies that are paving the way for women to succeed in the workplace, including Magrabi Retail Group, Luxury Closet and Balinca to name a few. An inaugural edition of Best Workplaces for Women, Fast Company’s list recognizes companies across the Middle East that are empowering women by creating inclusive environments.“We are proud to be recognized in the list, as we have showcased first-hand how women in the workforce represent improving business results. As a company we intend to continue our commitment to training, inspiring, and empowering the next generation of female communications leaders,” said Natasha Hatherall-Shawe, CEO & Founder of TishTash Communications.“Best Workplaces for Women was an initiative we were really proud to launch, recognizing organizations that are striving towards gender equality and we were thrilled with the number of nominations received. This list reflects the massive strides the Middle East is taking to create more inclusive cultures, and we are happy to spotlight their success,” said Ravi Raman, Publisher of Fast Company Middle East.Today, TishTash Communications stands as a team of 68 women and intends to be a deliberate example of the effects of policy change in the workforce when it comes to women. Creative, supporting workplaces for women benefits society as a whole, and not just the bottom line. 

Dubai: This Ramadan, GameCentric, the innovative gaming platform, and Dubai Esports & Games Festival (DEF2024) are teaming up to launch the exciting GameCentric Ramadan League. Offering a 20,000 AED prize pool and featuring popular titles like Brawl Stars, League of Legends (LoL), Battleground Mobile India, Valorant, and Fortnite, the League promises electrifying competition for gamers of all skill levels.Kicking off on March 13th, the League allows gamers to compete from the comfort of their homes, fostering a sense of community and connection during Ramadan. Players can choose their favorite game and battle it out for a chance to win a share of the lucrative prize pool.Live Streaming and In-Person FinalsThe excitement extends beyond gameplay, with all the action streamed live on popular platforms like YouTube, Facebook, TikTok, Twitch, and Discord. This allows fans to cheer on their favorite players, witness their strategies unfold, and be part of the vibrant esports community.Culminating at GameExpo 2024The top Fortnite players will have the opportunity to take their skills to the next level by competing live at GameExpo 2024, held at the Dubai World Trade Center from May 3rd to 5th. This provides an electrifying stage to showcase their talents and witness esports history in the making.

In celebration of International Women's Day, Mercedes-Benz has unveiled a captivating campaign spotlighting the remarkable journeys of three extraordinary women: Aya Jaff, Dalad Kambhu, and Alexandra Straßburger. Through cinematic short portraits and captivating narratives, the campaign, titled "Be one of many," aims to inspire women to pursue their dreams fearlessly, regardless of societal expectations or stereotypes.Aya Jaff, an accomplished author and entrepreneur, shares her inspiring story of breaking barriers in the tech industry. Hailing from Iraq and later settling in Nuremberg, Jaff's passion for technology led her to found successful startups and become a leading figure in the entrepreneurial world. Her journey serves as a testament to the power of determination and resilience.Dalad Kambhu, the head chef and owner of the renowned "Kin Dee" Thai restaurant in Berlin, represents perseverance and passion. Despite lacking formal culinary training, Kambhu's love for cooking propelled her to the top of the gastronomy scene. From her upbringing in Bangkok to fulfilling her dream of opening a restaurant in Berlin, Kambhu's story embodies the spirit of resilience and innovation.Alexandra Straßburger, Director of Global Sales Operations at Mercedes-Benz, exemplifies leadership and diversity in the corporate world. Starting as a trainee in 2002, Straßburger's journey within the company showcases her commitment to excellence and continuous growth. With a focus on fostering diversity and embracing different perspectives, Straßburger inspires others to pursue their passions unapologetically.The campaign underscores Mercedes-Benz's commitment to promoting diversity and equal opportunities. Through initiatives aimed at increasing the representation of women in senior management positions, the company aims to create a more inclusive corporate culture. By 2030, Mercedes-Benz aims to have 30 percent of women in senior management roles globally, reflecting its dedication to gender equality and empowerment.As the campaign unfolds on social media platforms and mercedesbenz.com, viewers are invited to embark on a journey of inspiration and empowerment. Through captivating visuals and compelling narratives, "Be one of many" celebrates the resilience, creativity, and ambition of women around the world, reaffirming Mercedes-Benz's commitment to driving positive change and championing diversity in all its forms.Credits:• Agency & postproduction: team x• Production company: Katja Rivas Pinzón• Director: team x• Music: amp music

Cloudflare, Inc., the leading connectivity cloud company, has announced it is pushing forward with aggressive investment plans in the Middle East furthering its nearly decade-long commitment in the region. The investment includes a new office in Dubai Internet City and growing team focused on partner enablement, innovation, and customer success. The company first invested in the Middle East early in 2015 and has been strategically placing its infrastructure closer to users in the region while building out its team, partnerships, and operations. Cloudflare announced its first office in the Middle East nearly two years ago.Also today, Cloudflare officially opened a new office in Dubai Internet City, which included a ribbon cutting and remarks from Michelle Zatlyn, Cloudflare’s Co-founder, President, and Chief Operating Officer. Cloudflare’s Dubai-based team, led by Bashar Bashaireh, Head of Middle East Sales, continues to grow in the region, signaling the company’s ongoing commitment to its customers and partners.“Countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia rank among the highest worldwide when it comes to access to the Internet, making the region a powerful source of growth and innovation,” said Michelle Zatlyn, Co-founder, President, & COO of Cloudflare. “Increased cybersecurity protection combined with a faster and more reliable Internet is key to unlocking continued growth for businesses. In Q4 2023, Cloudflare blocked an average of 9.5 billion cyber threats in the region per day – another example of the important role we play in protecting the Internet worldwide. With our leading cloud connectivity services, our growing team in the Middle East is committed to supporting our customers and deepening our partnerships locally.”Cloudflare protects nearly 20% of all websites. In Q4 2023, Cloudflare saw Internet usage in the Middle East grow by more than 20%, while cyber threats increased 31% from the previous quarter. Cloudflare identifies and mitigates attacks across the Middle East while helping to ensure these Internet properties remain accessible and operate fast, even amid attacks.Today, Cloudflare’s global network spans more than 310 cities in more than 120 countries, including 17 locations across the Middle East such as Dubai, Riyadh, Kuwait, Doha, Amman, Beirut, Baghdad, Jeddah, Muscat, Manama, and Erbil. The company first established data centers in the Middle East nearly a decade ago, and continues to build on its years-long network investment in the region.Accelerating channel-driven business is also part of Cloudflare’s growth and expansion strategy across the Middle East. Last year Mindware, a leading regional value-added distributor, announced a strategic partnership with Cloudflare to provide sales support, go-to-market programs and after-sales services. Cloudflare also has an increased collaboration with service providers and global partners.“The pace of digital transformation has rapidly accelerated in recent years, mostly driven by the organizational need to enable a hybrid workplace. Correspondingly, the incidence of cyberthreats has grown and evolved to an extremely high level of sophistication. In response to the needs of our partners and their customers, Mindware has been relentlessly enhancing its cyber security capabilities," said Nicholas Argyrides, Vice President - Gulf at Mindware. "Today Mindware is one of the leading Value Added Distributors in cybersecurity in the Middle East and we are extremely happy with our fruitful collaboration with an industry leader such as Cloudflare in such a dynamic market."Over the past two years the company has been investing heavily in attracting the best talent in the region across a variety of functions including sales and marketing, technical support, operations and channel. Based on momentum and demand in the region, Cloudflare is forecasting to more than double its headcount in the region over the next two years.“The Middle East region, characterized by fast-growing and innovation-driven economies that are being fuelled by the digital transformation trend, represents tremendous growth potential for Cloudflare. Cloud adoption has also gained momentum in the region over the last few years, with the essential regulatory frameworks and compliance policies now established, to propel enterprises into the next phase of digital transformation,” said Bashar Bashaireh, Head of Sales for Middle East at Cloudflare. “Cloudflare’s connectivity cloud strategy gives enterprises a unified platform of networking, security, and developer services.”To support its growing customer base, Cloudflare has team members across the region and aims to double the number of employees over the next couple of years with virtual and hybrid work environments.

Dubai: A new study reveals that women returning to the workforce following a career break have the potential to contribute nearly US$385bn to the GDP across nine countries in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. This indicates a significant economic potential, provided that organisations can adopt supportive measures to facilitate their smooth transition back into the workforce.The findings stem from PwC Middle East’s report, Navigating the path back: Women returners in MENA, the first in the 'The case for diversity' series that explores the different dimensions of diversity in our societies. The report draws insights from over 1,200 women in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Egypt, Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, and Oman. It also includes critical perspectives from leading CEOs in the region.Results show that nearly half (44%) of women in MENA have taken a break over the course of their careers, typically driven by family and caregiving responsibilities. More than two-thirds (68%) of them possess beyond entry-level experience. Furthermore, 82% of women who have returned to work following career breaks believe they can progress to the top levels of their organisations. However, nearly half (49%) of these women agree that their job applications have been rejected due to gaps in their resumes.Those that can rejoin the workforce face several challenges, including employer stigma, lack of flexible working arrangements to manage work along with other responsibilities, and the risk of of being subject to slower career advancement or reduced earnings compared to their peers as a result of being "mommy tracked."The survey results also suggest that the longer time spent out of work, the more challenging it is to return.Hani Ashkar, Middle East Senior Partner, PwC Middle East said: “We’ve made continuous progress in increasing the representation of women across our firm, and while we have more work to do, we’re proud of the progress we've made in addressing biases and inequalities that contribute to gender disparities - especially for experienced professionals who have taken career breaks. He adds: By taking proactive action, businesses can move the needle from awareness to action and results."Norma Taki, Middle East Inclusion & Diversity Leader, Transaction Services Partner and Consumer Markets Leader, said: “Women returning to work face obstacles to career advancement as employers do not view career breaks favourably, which results in negative impact on earnings and career progression. However, career breaks can offer profound personal growth opportunities.”She added: “Our experiences have shown us a clear link between the well-being of a community and the participation of women in the workforce. That is why we believe that every voice needs to be valued and every individual must be empowered to channel their talent for the greater good. Ultimately, the onus is not just on the female professionals – it requires concerted effort and shared responsibility among employers, governments and societies at large Failure to bring back women to the workforce will be a huge loss of talent for organisations. By facilitating the return of women to the workplace after a career break, organisations can improve their human capital, contributing to the region's future success”.Our report shows that providing alternative work models such as flexi- or remote working can help women balance their work and home responsibilities in a way that suits them best. Additionally, allowing women to work additional hours by granting them flexibility could lead to GDP gains of up to US$4.3 billion across the nine countries in the study.To encourage women to return to the workforce, it's important to have more equitable parental leave policies, along with well-designed returnship programmes. At the same time, businesses must also address the risk of unconscious bias by implementing inclusive workplace policies and training for teams, leaders, and talent acquisition. Providing effective mentorship and sponsorship programs can also make a significant difference.

Dubai-based PR agency Katch International has opened its first office in Saudi Arabia, marking a significant milestone in the company's expansion into the region. The new office in Riyadh opened its doors on March 1.Katch International said in a press release that it recognises the immense potential within the hospitality sector in KSA, exemplified by the stunning Al Ula and the increasing presence of luxury hospitality brands in the region. Katch aims to become a cornerstone in shaping the narrative of these transformative developments, offering expertise to clients who seek a dynamic PR partner to navigate the evolving landscape. With a team comprising around 30 individuals, the company is continuously growing, fostering a diverse and skilled workforce to meet the unique demands of the Saudi market. Katch’s portfolio expanded significantly in 2023 and has continued on the same trend in 2024, including landmark events and collaborations, making the opening of the Riyadh office the next logical step for the agency. Katch International, which also has its office in London, has successfully managed a series of high-profile events and campaigns in KSA in the past. Notable among Katch's current endeavours is the management of PR for Address Jabal Omar Makkah, which holds the record for the world’s highest prayer room, while the agency also took the reins of the communications for the Global Restaurant Investment Forum 2023 in Riyadh. Additionally, Katch has helped orchestrate iconic events such as iLuminate, a pioneering event under the entertainment authority, and handled the integrated communications for BTS' historic concert in Saudi Arabia, making them the first foreign act to perform a solo concert in the country.Throughout Katch’s years of operation in KSA to date without a physical office, the agency’s collaboration efforts and strategic approach have played a pivotal role. Even for recent milestones, like handling the PR for BLACKPINK’s first concert in the country, the team seamlessly coordinated with all relevant parties. In the absence of a central office, team members have frequently travelled to meet KSA journalists, fostering strong relationships and ensuring effective communication for the numerous high-profile events and campaigns spearheaded by Katch in the region.Georgie Woollams, Founder of Katch International, expressed her pride in the company's expansion, stating: “Opening our new office in Saudi Arabia is a momentous occasion for Katch International. As we take this significant step and expand our reach into the region, we look forward to building on our past successes and establish even stronger relationships with clients in Saudi Arabia. This expansion reflects our commitment to delivering exceptional PR services and contributing to the dynamic growth of the Middle East.”Katch International's current client portfolio is bursting with renowned names across such diverse industries as hospitality, live entertainment, F&B, real estate, and more. Katch continues to collaborate with industry giants such as Rove Hotels, Live Nation Middle East, Brag, Al Seef Heritage Hotel, Grand Millennium Hotel, Palace Downtown, Rixos The Palm Dubai Hotel & Suites, Rixos Premium Dubai, The H Dubai, Berkeley Group, Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai, Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives, Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives, among many others. These partnerships exemplify Katch's ability to navigate and excel in varied markets, reinforcing its position as a trusted partner for clients seeking innovative and impactful PR solutions.In addition to showcasing its ongoing successes, Katch International is excited to announce a whole host of new client partnerships and renewals for the year 2024. Notable among these are the resigning of the entire Address Hotels & Resorts and Vida Hotels portfolios. The agency has recently completed PR for the 2024 edition of Break The Block, UNTOLD Dubai – Dubai’s 1st Mega Music Festival at Expo City - and is set to manage the PR for the 2024 edition of Dubai Comedy Festival as well. New clients who have joined Katch's roster for 2024 include Banyan Tree Dubai, Zieda Beauty Lounge, Veo Gym, Jones Social, Trader Vics, and InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort, alongside the agency taking charge of the PR for Cirque du Soleil Crystal and Scorpions’ concert in Etihad Arena, both presented by Live Nation Middle East.

Dubai: The UAE's e-commerce market is on track for explosive growth, reaching a staggering $17 billion by 2025, according to a new report by leading quick-commerce (QC) platform YallaHub. This boom is fueled by rising internet penetration, smartphone adoption, and a growing preference for convenient and fast online shopping experiences.The market is expected to surge significantly in the coming years, with revenue projected to reach $9 billion by 2024, boasting a market penetration of 66.1% and a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 6.54% from 2024 to 2028. Quick commerce, a rapidly emerging segment, is anticipated to reach $162 million by 2024, further accelerating the overall market growth."Buy now, pay later" options are expected to become increasingly popular, with nearly 90% of sellers offering this payment method by 2024. Additionally, the "metaverse e-commerce" segment is poised for significant expansion, with a projected growth of 37% from 2024 to 2030.Toys, DIY, hobbies (29%), fashion (27%), electronics and media (18%), food and personal care (13%), and furniture and appliances (12%) were the leading e-commerce segments by market share in 2023. Notably, the online home and laundry care products market has witnessed a remarkable surge in demand, with consumers readily purchasing these items on e-commerce platforms."The online home and laundry care goods market has seen significant demand among UAE residents. Our data suggests that consumers readily purchase these products on e-shops and online platforms, without needing to visit physical stores," shared Leo Dovbenko, CEO and co-founder at YallaHub.Home and laundry care revenue is projected to reach $75.66 million by 2024, with market penetration increasing to 7.3% in 2024 and 8.2% by the end of 2028. The user base is expected to reach 0.8 million by the end of 2028.Similar growth is anticipated for the e-commerce market for tissue and hygiene care products, which is expected to reach $19.41 million by the end of 2024. The user base is forecasted to grow to 1.6 million people by the end of 2028, with a CAGR of 11.41% through 2024-2028. The e-commerce hair care market is also showing promising growth, with a projected revenue of $50.47 million, 1.1 million user penetration, and $47.1 APRU by the end of 2024.The MENA region's e-commerce market mirrors this growth, expected to reach $57 billion by 2026. YallaHub, with its cutting-edge technology and regional expertise, is well-positioned to capitalize on this opportunity."We empower brands to navigate the exciting and ever-evolving e-commerce landscape," said Leo Dovbenko, CEO at YallaHub. "In particular, we help brands reach new customers, deliver faster, and stay ahead of the curve with our advanced technologies and deep understanding of the region.”The report underscores the immense potential of the UAE's e-commerce market. Brands that adapt to evolving consumer preferences and embrace innovative solutions like quick commerce are poised to thrive in this dynamic and rapidly growing sector.

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – Global business guru Steven Bartlett urged attendees at LEAP 2024 to embrace the bizarre if they wish for success. The world’s most-attended technology event, running this week in Riyadh, features some of the planet’s most cutting-edge creations, from holograms to humanoids, marching robots to mechanical baristas.Speaking on the penultimate day of the four-day summit at Riyadh Exhibition and Convention Centre in Malham, the award-winning producer of Diary of a CEO – the world’s most-downloaded podcast series – explained the need to run towards rather than away from the unknown. Citing his own ill-fated experience with non-fungible tokens (NFTs), he cited psychologist Leon Festinger’s theory of cognitive dissonance whereby the brain dismisses what it hears to make sense of the world.“If you’re a smoker, and I told you smoking is bad for your health, the first sentence out of your mouth is an attempt to eliminate the cognitive discomfort,” said the British entrepreneur and best-selling author. “You will say: ‘Yes, but it helps me with stress.’ That is cognitive dissonance at play.“There are two types of people: Lean-out people who experience that dissonance or lean-in people who have experienced something that sounds bizarre – like AI or Web3 – and they lean into the dissonance. The future is going to be owned by people that are capable of hearing something really strange and leaning into the dissonance.”Bartlett recalled when he first started reading about people buying NFTs in the form of stylised cartoon monkeys for huge sums and spending weeks criticising them, suspecting it all to be part of a fraudulent investment scheme. However, on realising his reaction was similar to that which people had to his social media marketing company back in 2010, he stopped and leaned into the dissonance, buying a monkey NFT for US$250,000.The token is “worth very little now” in financial terms, he said, but it furnished him with knowledge about a technology that he would later channel to create Thirdweb, a Web3 startup that has since raised $31m, is now valued at $160m, and employs a team of 50 staff in San Francisco.“If I had kids, I wouldn’t be trying to teach them about any particular subject; I’d be trying to give them a mentality towards change,” he said. “How do we deal with dissonance, challenge, threats? Are we ostriches; do we bury our heads in the sand? Or are we lean-in people? I would be telling my kid when something sounds strange and you feel threatened by it, lean in.”On his Diary of a CEO podcast, the Botswana-born Briton has interviewed everyone from Virgin Galactic founder Richard Branson to astrophysicist Neill DeGrasse Tyson, One Direction’s Liam Payne to former footballer and renowned pundit Gary Neville. Bartlett said the best learning he has taken away from close to 500 episodes, came from Mo Gawdat, the former chief business officer of Google X and author of Solve For Happy: Engineer Your Path To Joy.Gawdat, who is also speaking at LEAP 2024 this week, said humans are most happy when their expectations about how their life is supposed to be going are met, and are unhappy when those expectations go unmet.Bartlett compared his mother’s happiness at receiving a hot bowl of rice in Botswana to a billionaire’s anger at receiving his steak cooked the wrong way in an expensive restaurant. Most of it comes down to whether the person’s expectations are being met, exceeded, or unmet, he explained.“I flew here first class and I’m probably used to that now, so it’s having a lot less impact on me,” he said. “But seven years ago, the first time I got on a plane as an adult, I flew economy and I was way happier in economy because that first flight I couldn't believe my eyes – my expectations were being exceeded. Now on my flight over here, my expectations are no longer being exceeded, so the reaction is different.“You can think about everything through that exact same lens of expectations: Relationships, team members, pay rises, emotions, your wife or husband... That’s how you understand why people are happy – typically just figure out what their expectations are.”LEAP 2024 is organised by Tahaluf alongside Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT). Tahaluf is a strategic joint venture between Informa PLC, the Events Investment Fund (EIF), and the Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming and Drones (SAFCSP).

Dubai, the UAE: YallaHub aims to revolutionize the MENA e-commerce market in skincare and wellness by introducing innovative, sustainable brands, such as Librederm, to the region. Current data indicates that the UAE cosmetic market will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.8% from 2022 to 2030, increasing from $180.5 million to $283.3 million.This strategic partnership with YallaHub will unlock a tremendous growth trajectory for Librederm. In just six months, Librederm is expected to achieve a monthly turnover of 30,000 AED, followed by a staggering 125,000 AED within the next year – all while focusing solely on the UAE market. Librederm's success in the UAE will pave the way for further expansion into other aggregators and marketplaces in Saudi Arabia and Qatar. The brand is also exploring international delivery options to reach a global audience seeking effective and affordable skincare solutions."The growth of cosmetic brands that entered the market through YallaHub has been impressive, with year-on-year growth at 540% and an average brand growth of 1400% since launch," said Leo Dovbenko, CEO of YallaHub. "This partnership with Librederm exemplifies our commitment to transforming the MENA cosmetics industry by providing brands with the tools and resources they need to achieve their full potential."Librederm, renowned for its innovative approach to skincare, offers a comprehensive range of solutions that address a broad spectrum of skin conditions, including acne, atopy, and rosacea. The brand's dedication to providing effective and affordable cosmetic care has earned it a loyal following among consumers seeking to enhance their natural beauty and maintain youthful, radiant skin."This partnership with YallaHub represents a significant milestone for Librederm, opening doors to the vast and untapped potential of the MENA cosmetics market," said Baklanova Nataliya, a Head of Global Brand Marketing Communications of Librederm. "We are confident that YallaHub's expertise and reach will enable us to establish a strong presence in this region, empowering us to enhance the lives of our customers further."The UAE cosmetics market is witnessing a growing demand for skin care products that align with consumer preferences for natural ingredients, sustainability, and personalized solutions. This collaboration between YallaHub and Librederm perfectly aligns with these trends, providing consumers with access to innovative, high-quality skincare products and empowering Librederm to become a significant player in the MENA cosmetics industry.

AD Airports, the leading airport operator in Abu Dhabi, has received the prestigious "Airport Operator of the Year" award at the highly anticipated Aviation Achievement Awards 2024.This recognition is a testament to the exceptional achievements and progress made by Abu Dhabi Airports between 2023 and 2024, showcasing a period of unprecedented growth and innovation.Elena Sorlini, Managing Director, and Chief Executive Officer at Abu Dhabi Airports said: “Receiving the “Airport Operator of the Year” is a true reflection of our team's dedication to exceptional airport experience. It’s a remarkable accomplishment which not only reinforce the pivotal role of Abu Dhabi Airports in the regional aviation landscape but also position it as a global leader in shaping the future of the travel experience worldwide.”Abu Dhabi Airports' success is highlighted by the launch of the new state-of-the-art terminal at Zayed International Airport, which has significantly increased the airport's capacity and improved the passenger experience. This achievement demonstrates Abu Dhabi Airports' commitment to setting new standards for airport operations and passenger service.

Home of Performances (HOP), a leading performance marketing agency in the UAE, today announced a major client win: restaurant chain Nando’s UAE has selected HOP to manage its paid media campaigns across the region.HOP will assume responsibility for Nando’s paid media strategy and execution, leveraging their expertise to drive enhanced return on investment (ROI) of the brand’s advertising spend. This partnership will focus on optimizing Nando’s digital channels to reach new audiences, boost brand awareness, and drive conversions.“Nando’s is an iconic brand that introduced the PERi-PERi chicken to a global passionate customer base,” said Tahir Khesghi (pictured above), Digital Director at Home of Performances. “My previous role at Americana Restaurants has given me deep insight into the food and beverage sector, and I’m excited to apply those learnings alongside our talented team to maximize Nando’s marketing potential in the UAE.”Hasna Namnoum, Marketing Manager at Nando’s UAE brings a wealth of marketing experience within F&B sector, managing global brands like Krispy Kreme. She added, “We were impressed with HOP’s track record of success and their innovative approach to digital marketing. We believe they are the ideal partners to elevate our paid media efforts as we continue to expand and spread PERi-PERi goodness across the UAE.”Specializing in paid media management, HOP utilizes data-driven strategies and cutting-edge tactics to optimize campaign performance, increase ROI, and drive conversions. Nando’s UAE is the popular restaurant chain specializing in flame-grilled PERi-PERi chicken and other Afro-Portuguese delights. With 23 locations across the UAE, Nando’s is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, flavorful food, and commitment to serving customers with passion.