Bahrain has signed a memorandum of understanding for strategic investments and collaborations with Britain that will see the Gulf state's private sector invest 1 billion pounds ($1.3 billion) in Britain, the Bahraini crown prince's social media account said on Monday.The investments will be through Bahraini sovereign wealth fund Mumtalakat, Investcorp, GFH Financial Group, and Osool Asset Management, the twitter account of the crown prince of Bahrain said.($1 = 0.7881 pounds)

Realiste was founded with a vision to transform the real estate investment process and bring about positive change in the industry. It recognized the existing inefficiencies and challenges associated with investing in real estate, such as complex procedures, lack of transparency, and limited access to comprehensive data. In this interview with Adgully, AnastasiaDenisova, Chief Executive Officer, Realiste MENA, discusses the inspiration behind starting the company and developing the world's first real estate exchange. She highlights the challenges in the current process of buying off-plan apartments and explains how Realiste addresses these challenges through a user-friendly platform, comprehensive data and analytics, and streamlined transactions. She also delves into how Realiste utilizes data and modern technologies to revolutionize the real estate industry and differentiate itself from competitors. The CEO shares her vision for the future of Realiste, including expansion into new markets and integration of emerging technologies. Excerpts:Can you tell us about the inspiration behind starting Realiste and developing the first real estate exchange in the world?The inspiration behind starting Realiste and developing the first real estate exchange in the world stemmed from a desire to revolutionize the way peopleinvest in real estate . We recognized the inefficiencies and challenges inherent in the traditional process and saw an opportunity to create a more streamlined and accessible platform. By leveraging technology and data, we aimed to provide a solution that would benefit both buyers and developers, making the real estate market more transparent and efficient.What specific challenges do you see in the current process of buying off-plan apartments, and how does Realiste aim to address these challenges?The current process of investing off-plan apartments often involves complex paperwork, lengthy procedures, and market opacity. Buyers face challenges in terms of understanding the market, evaluating investment opportunities, and ensuring transparency throughout the transaction. Realiste addresses these challenges by offering a user-friendly platform that provides comprehensive data and analytics, enabling buyers to make informed decisions. We aim to simplify the entire process, from property selection to documentation, ensuring a seamless and secure experience for our users.How does Realiste utilize data and modern technologies to revolutionize the real estate industry?Realiste utilizes advanced data analytics and modern technologies to revolutionize the real estate industry. We leverage artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms to analyze vast amounts of data, including market trends, property values, and investment potential. This allows us to provide accurate predictions, personalized recommendations, and real-time market insights to our users. By harnessing the power of data and technology, we aim to transform the way people engage with the real estate market.What sets Realiste apart from other proptech startups in the market? How does it differentiate itself and rise above the competition?Our focus is on creating a comprehensive ecosystem that caters to all stakeholders in the real estate industry. We not only provide a user-friendly platform for buyers but also cooperate with developers, brokers, and agents to offer a holistic solution. Our emphasis on data-driven insights, personalized recommendations, and transparent transactions distinguishes us from competitors. Additionally, our commitment to innovation and continuous improvement allows us to stay ahead of the curve and adapt to evolving market needs.How does Realiste ensure transparency and security for buyers and sellers on its real estate exchange platform?Transparency and security are paramount to Realiste. We ensure transparency by providing detailed information about properties, including floor plans, amenities, pricing, and historical data. Our platform facilitates direct communication between buyers and sellers, fostering trust and openness throughout the transaction. Furthermore, we implement robust security measures to protect user data and financial transactions, adhering to industry standards and regulationsCould you share some success stories or testimonials from customers who have used Realiste's platform to buy off-plan apartments?We have received positive feedback from customers who have used Realiste's platform to buy off-plan apartments. Many have praised the ease of use, extensive property information, and personalized recommendations that helped them find their ideal investment. Customers appreciate the transparency and security offered by our platform, as it has facilitated smooth and hassle-free transactions. Their success stories serve as a testament to the value Realiste brings to the real estate market.What are your future plans for Realiste? Are there any new features or developments in the pipeline?Our future plans for Realiste involve expanding our presence to new markets and collaborating with additional developers and industry partners. We are continuously enhancing our platform with new features and functionalities to provide an even more comprehensive and user-centric experience. Additionally, we are exploring opportunities to integrate emerging technologies such as virtual reality and blockchain into our ecosystem, further revolutionizing the real estate industry.How do you see the real estate industry evolving in the next few years, and how does Realiste plan to stay at the forefront of this transformation?The real estate industry is evolving rapidly, driven by advancements in technology, changing consumer preferences, and market dynamics. To stay at the forefront of this transformation, Realiste remains committed to innovation and adaptability. We will continue to leverage data and modern technologies to provide cutting-edge solutions to our users. By closely monitoring industry trends, collaborating with industry experts, and anticipating market needs, we aim to lead the way in shaping the future of real estate.What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs or professionals looking to make an impact in the real estate and proptech sectors?For aspiring entrepreneurs or professionals looking to make an impact in the real estate and proptech sectors, my advice would be to embrace innovation, stay agile, and always prioritize the needs of your users. Understand the pain points and challenges in the industry and strive to create solutions that add value and improve efficiency. Build a strong network of industry partners, investors, and mentors who can provide guidance and support. Lastly, be persistent, resilient, and willing to adapt to changing circumstances.Can you share some insights into the challenges you faced as a communication specialist and how those experiences have shaped your approach to leading Realiste?My experiences as a communication specialist have taught me the importance of effective collaboration, clear communication, and building strong relationships. These skills have been instrumental in leading Realiste and navigating the challenges that come with entrepreneurship. Understanding the power of effective communication in driving business growth, we prioritize transparency, clarity, and open dialogue within our team and with our stakeholders. These experiences have shaped my leadership approach, emphasizing the value of effective communication in achieving our goals.

Riyadh: Yesterday night, the Saudi Sports for All Federation (SFA) concluded the SFA Expo the most significant and first-of-its-kind fitness and health exhibition hosted in the Kingdom at Riyadh Front Exhibition & Convention Center, in the presence of HRH Prince Khaled bin Alwaleed bin Talal Al Saud, President of the Saudi Sports for All Federation, Khalid Abdullah Albaker, CEO of Quality of Life, Shaima Saleh Al-Husseini, Managing Director, the Saudi Sports for All Federation, and Kholoud Al Junaibi, Secretary-General of UAE Sports for All Federation,The exhibition included a diverse range of sessions and workshops delivered by more than 90 speakers and trainers specialized in a wide selection of sports; in addition, many experts from around the world attended the exhibition to build relationships and invest in the promising Saudi market.The exhibition area was more than 10,000 SQM, divided into six interactive areas focused on communication, knowledge sharing, learning about modern innovations, and practicing sports with challenge and competition.The exhibition attracted to the meeting hall (B2B) many international and local companies to highlight the investment role in the sports sector in the Kingdom and to discuss promising opportunities to make the Kingdom a competitive sports destination.An honorary ceremony was held during the event, where four prizes were distributed to four groups. The awards, organized by SFA, rewarded several community groups across various categories for advancing the Saudi sports industry and regional sports culture. The Community Sports Group Awards categories are as follows: “Most Active Community Sports Group on the SFA app,”; “Most unique event idea,”; “Most effective sustainable and community service initiative,”; and “Most active university Group Male/female.”Shaima Saleh Al-Husseini, Managing Director of Saudi Sports for All Federation, said: “We are very pleased to have hosted SFA Expo. As the largest and first-of-its-kind fitness and health exhibition in Saudi Arabia, the exhibition will help to raise the Kingdom’s profile on the global stage as a world-class sports hub. Crucially, it will shine an even brighter spotlight on the importance of sport and physical activity to the economy and society, encouraging more people and families to lead healthy, active lifestyles.”The exhibition allowed visitors to interact with leading global and regional brands in the sports and fitness sector, attend panel discussions and workshops, and view and participate in competitions that added more excitement and fun to the event. It also provided professionals, athletes, trainers, and fitness enthusiasts worldwide with an appropriate platform to discuss challenges in the sports field.With the support of leading bodies such as the Ministry of Sport, Ministry of Investment, Saudi Business Center, and Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee, the event was launched to contribute to the growth and development of the Saudi sports industry, bolster local sports infrastructure, and transform regional community sports.SFA Expo was supported by leading event sponsors such as Invest Saudi, Delta Fitness, Riyad Bank, and Al Arabiya and official event supporters such as Salonpas, Saudi 360, and Get More Vits.

Dubai: Manama, Bahrain: Beyon has announced a major investment of more than USD 250M in state-of-the-art digital infrastructure helping to support the acceleration of Bahrain’s digital transformation and the growth of the country’s digital economy, in a press conference attended by Beyon Chairman Shaikh Abdulla bin Khalifa Al Khalifa.The Bahrain Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) General Director Mr. Phillip Marnick and SEA-ME-WE 6 Management Committee Chairperson Mr. Yue Meng Fai were also in attendance at the event, which took place at Centraal, Beyon Campus, Hamala, Kingdom of Bahrain on May 16th, 2023.During the event, Beyon CEO Mikkel Vinter announced that Batelco, part of the Beyon group, has joined the SEA-ME-WE 6 (Southeast Asia - Middle East - Western Europe) consortium, which is building a 21,700 km-long undersea telecommunications cable system connecting Bahrain with 14 other countries.Additionally, Batelco is investing to build a regional subsea cable, the ‘Al Khaleej’ Cable which the Company will fully own, enhancing the region’s data exchange. Beyon’s CEO also announced Data Oasis, which will be the biggest technology hub in the Kingdom of Bahrain and include a newly built advanced Data Centre for the Company.SEA-ME-WE 6 Superhighway Connecting the Middle East to Southeast Asia and Western EuropeThe SEA-ME-WE 6 cable system, offering one of the lowest latencies available between the Middle East, Southeast Asia and Western Europe will significantly boost Beyon’s global network infrastructure. SEA-ME-WE 6 will have the capability of transferring more than 100 terabits per second. The new subsea cable will create a layer of network diversity and resilience for the heavily used routes connecting the Middle East towards Europe and Asia.Al Khaleej Cable, the Company’s Fully Owned Subsea CableBatelco is also investing in the Al Khaleej Subsea Cable, to extend from Bahrain to other regional countries including Oman, UAE and Qatar. This fully owned subsea cable will help to diversify routes and augment international connectivity for the region.Beyon Data Oasis Announced Incorporating Advanced Data CentreAnother major initiative supporting the ever-growing data movement was also announced. Beyon is developing Bahrain’s biggest and most advanced Data Centre that will be located within Beyon Data Oasis, being developed on a 140K Sq. Mts. site located in the south of Bahrain.Beyon Data Oasis will incorporate the SEA-ME-WE 6 and the Al Khaleej cables into the Data Centre, therefore enabling hyperscalers and businesses to access seamless integrated solutions and helping to strengthen Bahrain’s position as a leading regional technology hub.Furthermore, the new Data Centre will feature multiple Megawatt power capacity and utilize clean power technologies provided by the Company’s Solar Park, aligning with its sustainability plans to increase alternative power sources.Beyon Chairman Shaikh Abdulla bin Khalifa Al Khalifa praised the major announcements that were made today, noting that a robust connectivity infrastructure is central to the growth of the digital economy and that these major initiatives will support the acceleration of the digital future for Bahrain in line with the Kingdom’s vision 2030.Beyon CEO Mikkel Vinter said, “Beyon is delighted to join hands with other leading international communication companies and join the SEA-ME-WE 6 cable consortium which will support and strengthen connectivity in the region.”“We are also pleased to reaffirm our commitment to building state-of-the-art facilities that help to attract global tech companies plus leading local and regional companies, by building Beyon’s new Data Centre, which will be the biggest in Bahrain.”“Our significant Investment, the biggest of its kind in Bahrain’s history, reflects the immense importance we place on meeting the requirements of the business industry and our commitment to supporting the growth of Bahrain’s digital ecosystem,” he added.The TRA General Director Phillip Marnick who attended the event said, “This is a very important announcement that will have a significant impact on the development of a robust digital connectivity infrastructure for the Kingdom of Bahrain.”“The deployment of advanced technologies for citizens, residents, and businesses gives them access to the latest communication solutions, and also further enhances Bahrain's position as a leading digital hub.”SEA-ME-WE 6 Management Committee Chairperson Yue Meng Fai said, “We are very happy to welcome Batelco to the consortium, which will directly connect Bahrain to the cable and enhance the overall coverage of the SEA-ME-WE 6.”“With millions of people living and working remotely today, this new cable system will support all partners to provide superior broadband access along this multi-regional data superhighway, enabling them to meet and exceed capacity demands of their customers. By building more capacity and flexibility we are ensuring readiness for future needs.”In addition to Beyon in Bahrain, the SMW6 consortium includes its sister company Dhiraagu in the Maldives and additionally Bangladesh Submarine Cable Company, Bharti Airtel (India), China Unicom, Djibouti Telecom, Mobily (Saudi Arabia), Orange (France), PCCW Global, Singtel (Singapore), Sri Lanka Telecom, Telecom Egypt, Telekom Malaysia, Telin (Indonesia) and Trans World Associates (Pakistan).The SEA-ME-WE 6 submarine cable connectivity to Bahrain and Al Khaleej Cable are expected to be completed by Q2 2026.

Dubai: Al Ramz Corporation PJSC (DFM: ALRAMZ), a leading financial services provider in the UAE, has announced the appointment of two new Group CEOs, as part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen its leadership team. Haisam Odeimeh has been appointed as the new Group CEO for Financial Services, while Karim Schoeib will serve as the Group CEO for Investment Banking.Both senior executives possess significant capital markets expertise and have established client relationships throughout the region. This strategic move aligns with Al Ramz's objective of investing in top talent to offer exceptional client service and is expected to bolster the company's position in the financial services sector and support its strategic growth plans.Commenting on the appointments, Mohammad Al Mortada Al Dandashi, Group Managing Director of Al Ramz Corporation PJSC said, “At this critical stage of our growth, we are delighted to announce the appointment of two exceptional Group Chief Executives. Haisam and Karim have an extensive record in the region capital markets and possess a robust network of relationships. In their new capacity, they will play a crucial role in executing Al Ramz's strategic vision, and I am excited to collaborate alongside them to achieve our maximum potential.”Haisam will be working closely with the Group Managing Director to strengthen the Group's financial services and management consultancy offerings with the objective of assisting client organizations in enhancing performance, remaining competitive and adapting to market conditions.Karim will collaborate closely with the Group Managing Director in his new position to enhance Al Ramz's investment banking business across asset management, corporate finance, market making, prime brokerage and research to generate value for shareholders and stakeholders and propel expansion in key markets.Haisam, formerly the Group Chief Operating Officer, has over 23 years of experience and previously served as the Financial Services Head at KPMG. He led key high-profile transactions, holds a master’s degree in Banking and Finance from Paris Sorbonne University and is a Certified Public Accountant.Karim, formerly the Chief Executive Officer of Al Ramz Capital, brings over 25 years of Investment Banking experience and previously served in several senior positions in leading institutions including Credit Suisse. Karim holds a master’s degree in Banking and Finance from Paris Sorbonne University and is a Certified Wealth Advisor.

DUBAI: NWTN Inc. (Nasdaq: NWTN), an eco-conscious mobility technology company bringing passenger-centric green premium mobility solutions to the world ("NWTN"), today announced that it signed a memorandum of understanding with Elfaba Investment and Advisory ("Elfaba") for the sales and purchase of products of NWTN and Rabdan brands across more than seven countries.The MOU stipulates that NWTN will authorize Elfaba as the NWTN and Rabdan brand distributor for a period of five years, enabling the sale of NWTN and Rabdan vehicles, parts, and accessories together with the provision of after sales services. The MOU also stipulates that Elfaba will aim for sales of up to 5,000 vehicles. A definitive agreement is targeted to be signed by the end of April 2023.Rabdan is a NWTN brand of intelligent new energy vehicles and encompasses a full range of intelligent new energy passenger vehicle products from extended range to pure electric technology solutions.Rabdan products will integrate the most advanced technologies and resources in the global new energy vehicle industry as well as surpass traditional fuel vehicle products in many aspects, from driving experience and intelligent comfort to energy saving and emissions reduction. It aims to define a new category of traveling and lifestyle.The MOU between NWTN and Elfaba was signed at the NWTN Suhoor Gathering which was held in celebration of the Holy month of Ramadan. The Suhoor Gathering was held at the NWTN's assembly facility in the Khalifa Economic Zone Abu Dhabi (KEZAD) which was completed at the end of 2022. The facility enables NWTN to address the rapidly growing demand for electric vehicles in the UAE and the Middle East, promote green mobility, and accelerate sustainable energy transformation in the UAE.Guests mingled and enjoyed traditional Suhoor dishes and were offered an exclusive preview of the Rabdan brand's first vehicle – the Rabdan ONE.The Rabdan ONE is a dynamic, intelligent, and comfortable, all-wheel-drive SUV that adopts the world's leading range extension technology. The Rabdan ONE is suitable for a variety of uses from business, family, leisure, adventure, work to pleasure. The Rabdan One is designed to be a powerful intelligent car leading a new fashion lifestyle.

Dubai: The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has announced a new $100 million Culinary Investment Fund that will help introduce iconic brands to the UAE capital. In addition, the fund will support building and establishing a Culinary School to aid with recruitment, training, and other staffing resources in the sector. The school will offer an established core curriculum and introduce two new degree programmes that focus on maritime sustainability and food security.The newly launched, Abu Dhabi Culinary Investment Fund (ADCIF), is an incentive for world-class culinary brands to enter the emirate and will further elevate the culinary scene by co-investing with local asset partners and incentivising top chefs, top restaurants, and culinary educational institutions, to enter the market and make Abu Dhabi their new home.H.E. Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director General for Tourism, DCT Abu Dhabi said: “The Abu Dhabi Culinary Investment Fund is part of our ongoing commitment to elevate the culinary scene across the emirate and create new dining experiences. There is no better time or place to bring best-in-class chefs, restaurants, and hotel brands to the capital. This fund, in combination with the Culinary School will ensure that Abu Dhabi appeals to even more visitors around the world, who can experience increasingly diverse and high-quality dining in the emirate, centred on our tradition of Emirati hospitality.”The main requisites for successful fund applicants are brands or chefs recognised by leading awards committees and global culinary guides, with a multi-regional presence – operating in more than one country. Applicants should offer a premium casual, lifestyle, or fine dining experience, without yet having an existing presence in the region and would be making their debut in Abu Dhabi – with a one-year period of exclusivity to the emirate.Abu Dhabi’s dining scene has recently been making headlines around the world, welcoming the MICHELIN team to launch the first-ever MICHELIN Guide Abu Dhabi. The guide details 42 restaurants across Abu Dhabi, awarded three establishments with one MICHELIN Star for their high-quality cooking and four with a Bib Gourmand, acknowledging culinary excellence and value. In addition, Middle East & North Africa’s 50 Best Restaurants 2023 – the regional food awards ranking – returned Abu Dhabi in 2023 after a hugely successful 2022 event.