Business News and Insights into business affairs in the Middle East
A significant step in global energy cooperation has been marked by a 15-year sales and purchase agreement between ADNOC, Abu Dhabi's state-owned energy company, and PETRONAS, Malaysia's national oil and gas corporation. This strategic partnership focuses on liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplies from the Ruwais LNG project, with deliveries slated to commence in 2028.The deal, unveiled during the ADIPEC energy conference in Abu Dhabi, represents ADNOC’s effort to strengthen its lower-carbon energy portfolio. PETRONAS is set to receive approximately 1
Mubadala Investment Company has entered into an agreement to acquire a minority stake in Zelis, a prominent US-based health technology firm. This deal, valued at approximately $1.7 billion, is poised to enhance the UAE-based investment firm's health sector portfolio. The strategic move aligns with Mubadala's long-term goal of expanding its footprint in high-growth markets, especially within health tech, and signals its continued interest in driving international expansion, particularly in emerging markets such as China and India.Zelis, a leader in healthcare
Edgnex Data Centers, a leading player in the global data center market, has entered into a joint venture (JV) with a prominent Greek investment group, marking a significant move into Europe. The new venture will focus on building data center infrastructure in Greece, with an initial investment commitment of $157 million. This collaboration, spearheaded by Dubai billionaire Hussain Sajwani’s company, is expected to accelerate the digital transformation across the region while tapping into Greece’s growing data storage and processing demands.The
Saudi Aramco, the world's largest energy company, has secured a significant foothold in the evolving mobility sector through its acquisition of a 10% stake in Horse Powertrain, a global leader in automotive engineering and electrification technologies. This strategic move, announced last week, underscores Aramco’s ambition to diversify its portfolio and strengthen its commitment to sustainable mobility solutions.Horse Powertrain, renowned for its cutting-edge advancements in electric powertrains, specializes in developing high-performance, energy-efficient systems for a wide array of vehicles. The company's
PRYPCO, a prominent Dubai-based real estate firm led by Amira Sajwani, has launched an innovative fractional ownership platform aimed at democratizing access to premium properties in the city. The platform allows investors to buy fractions of luxury real estate, significantly lowering the barriers to entry in a market traditionally dominated by high-net-worth individuals.The new platform is poised to reshape the landscape of real estate investment in Dubai by leveraging technology to offer fractional shares in high-value properties. This initiative comes
Abu Dhabi’s strategic investment company, MAIR Group, is preparing to go public next month, marking a significant milestone in the emirate's economic development strategy. The group's upcoming listing on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) is poised to enhance its visibility and bolster its efforts in achieving food security and economic diversification.MAIR Group operates a diverse portfolio, including the Abu Dhabi Cooperative Society (ADCOOP), which has expanded significantly following a merger with cooperative societies in Al Ain, Delma, and Al
Understood. Allow me to begin researching and drafting this report. I’ll provide a professional, fact-checked, and unbiased article shortly.Talabat, a leading food delivery platform in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), has confirmed that its initial public offering (IPO) in Dubai has been increased to $2 billion following strong investor demand. The company, owned by Germany’s Delivery Hero, is offering 3.493 billion shares, accounting for 15% of its total issued share capital. The IPO is set to mark one
An affiliate of Mubadala Capital, the UAE-based alternative asset management firm, has reached an agreement to acquire Canada’s CI Financial Corp. in a deal valued at approximately CAD 4.7 billion ($3.36 billion). Under the terms of the agreement, all shareholders of CI Financial will receive CAD 32 per share, representing a significant 33% premium over Friday's closing price and a 58% premium over the 60-day volume-weighted average trading price on the Toronto Stock Exchange.This move marks a pivotal moment for
The UAE's small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which make up over 90% of the country's businesses, are witnessing an influx of transformative mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity. This surge, prompted by a combination of government initiatives and the rise of digital solutions, is expected to redefine the sector’s growth trajectory. As part of its economic diversification strategy, the UAE has been fostering the expansion of SMEs, and mergers are increasingly seen as a key mechanism to accelerate this process.The nation’s
Dubai is a global icon of rapid urban transformation, evolving from a quiet desert town into a bustling international metropolis in just a few decades. Behind this remarkable growth lies a network of services enabling the city’s expansion and mobility. Among these, moving companies in Dubai are key players, ensuring seamless transitions for residents, businesses, and global professionals. The Unprecedented Growth of Dubai Population Growth and Urban DevelopmentAs Dubai transforms into a global metropolis, relocation services are increasingly vital for the city's
Lulu Group International has reported a remarkable leap in profits for the third quarter, marking a significant milestone in the company’s financial journey following its initial public offering (IPO). The group, known for its retail and wholesale operations across the Middle East and Asia, saw its profit more than double compared to the same period last year. This surge in earnings is the first after Lulu’s IPO, which was completed earlier this year, underscoring the company's robust growth and strategic
Pure Harvest Smart Farms, a UAE-founded controlled environment agriculture (CEA) company, is positioning itself for further growth as it sets its sights on expanding operations beyond the Middle East. Following significant milestones in its domestic and regional markets, the company is now exploring opportunities in the USA, Mexico, Morocco, and Singapore. This expansion aligns with the company's long-term vision of becoming a global leader in the technology-driven agribusiness sector, with plans to go public by 2027 or 2028.Headquartered in Abu
Salik, the toll operator for Dubai's roadways, has posted a significant increase in its earnings, signaling a promising growth trajectory. The toll operator, which manages Dubai's Salik toll system, revealed that its profits have surged, bolstered by an uptick in traffic volumes and improved operational efficiencies.The company, which operates the electronic toll collection system across Dubai, saw its revenues climb sharply. The key factor behind this growth has been a steady rise in vehicle registrations in the emirate, along with
Mubadala Investment Company and commodities trader Trafigura are exploring the sale of their assets in Brazil’s iron-ore sector, specifically Porto Sudeste, a key iron ore port in Rio de Janeiro, and the Mineração Morro do Ipê mining project in Minas Gerais. Both entities are working with UBS BB and Goldman Sachs to facilitate the sale, a move that could be completed within the next six to nine months.The duo’s involvement with these assets dates back to early 2014 when they
Emaar Properties, one of the largest real estate developers in the UAE, has reported a modest growth in its profits for the first nine months of the year. The company’s net income rose compared to the same period last year, driven primarily by strong performance in its core real estate development and retail segments.The Dubai-based developer, which operates a diverse portfolio of real estate and hospitality ventures, saw its total revenue increase by a substantial margin. Key developments, including the
DAMAC Properties, the UAE-based real estate giant, has ventured into the world of premium travel with the launch of DAMAC Air, a luxury airline designed for high-end tourists seeking bespoke experiences in some of the world’s most exotic destinations. This new venture comes as part of the company’s expansion from real estate and hospitality into the luxury travel sector, continuing its tradition of offering elite services.DAMAC Air is tailored to cater to affluent travelers, offering private jet services to coveted
Are you curious about how Roth conversion taxes impact your retirement savings? Converting to a Roth IRA can be a smart move for future tax-free growth, but understanding the taxes involved is key to maximizing the benefits.Roth conversion taxes can seem complex, yet with the right strategies, you can manage them effectively and set up your retirement for success.By learning how to navigate these taxes, you can make the most of your money now and in the years to come.
Deyaar Development has announced plans to launch a new real estate project in Dubai, with a projected investment value of Dh1.5 billion. This project, set for completion by the end of the year, marks a significant milestone for the company, which is renowned for its high-profile developments across the emirate. The initiative is part of Deyaar’s broader strategy to strengthen its presence in the competitive Dubai property market, which has seen an uptick in demand for residential and mixed-use developments
New ERP Solutions Help Construction Companies Meet Budgets, Deadlines, and Resource Demands As the construction industry faces increasingly complex projects and tighter profit margins, a growing number of companies are turning to ERP software for construction to improve efficiency. ERP software tailored for construction is transforming how these companies manage everything from budgeting to scheduling, aiming to reduce costs and streamline operations.[caption id="attachment_96817" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Credit: Unsplash[/caption] ERP Software Helps Address Industry Challenges ERP software offers a solution to several persistent challenges in
Abu Dhabi’s National Marine Dredging Company (NMDC) is pursuing its first significant acquisition in the Gulf region, with plans to finalize a deal by the end of the year. The state-backed firm, which has expanded its portfolio through several infrastructure and engineering projects, has been actively exploring new ventures in the region to diversify its operations and strengthen its position in the global construction and marine services market. This potential acquisition will mark a critical step in NMDC’s growth strategy,
TECOM Group has reported a substantial rise in net profit for the first nine months of 2024, marking a 23% increase year-on-year. The group's net profit reached AED 943 million ($256 million), driven by robust revenue figures that hit AED 1.7 billion, an impressive 10% increase compared to the same period in the previous year. This performance reflects the ongoing demand for premium commercial and industrial real estate in Dubai, showcasing the city’s growing appeal to global businesses.The significant profit
Abu Dhabi has unveiled a new licensing framework aimed at facilitating the establishment and operation of longevity medicine centers. This initiative, announced by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), seeks to bolster the emirate's position as a hub for health and wellness, particularly in the burgeoning field of longevity medicine. The framework is designed to promote research, innovation, and the implementation of advanced medical practices that focus on extending healthspan and lifespan.The new framework comes as part of
ADNOC Drilling, a subsidiary of the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, has reported a remarkable 30% increase in its net profit for the third quarter of the fiscal year, driven by robust demand for drilling services and a strategic focus on operational efficiency. The company, which is a key player in the region's oil and gas sector, generated a net profit of approximately $220 million during this period, reflecting a significant uptick compared to the same quarter last year.The increase
International Holding Company (IHC), a prominent player in various sectors, has expanded its portfolio by acquiring a majority stake in Gallega Global Logistics. This strategic move aims to enhance IHC's logistics capabilities and bolster its presence in the rapidly evolving logistics and supply chain sector. The acquisition was officially announced, with IHC stating that it will leverage Gallega's established networks and expertise to improve operational efficiency across its logistics offerings.Gallega Global Logistics, based in the UAE, has built a strong
ADNH Catering, a prominent player in the food and beverage sector, faced challenges on its stock market debut in Abu Dhabi. The company raised Dh864 million (approximately US$235.2 million) through its initial public offering (IPO), which was priced at the higher end of its anticipated range. Despite this, the shares closed at the issue price of Dh0.96, reflecting a lackluster response from investors.The IPO drew significant attention, with the share price initially peaking at Dh0.97 shortly after trading commenced. However,
Abu Dhabi's International Holding Company (IHC) has made a significant move in the leasing market by acquiring a 51% stake in Gallega Global, a strategic acquisition that underscores IHC's commitment to diversifying its investments. The deal marks a crucial step for EasyLease, IHC’s leasing arm, as it seeks to enhance its service offerings and expand its footprint in the global market.This acquisition comes at a time when the leasing sector is experiencing robust growth, driven by increased demand for flexible
ADNEC Group has announced its intention to acquire Royal Catering, a prominent food and beverage service provider in Abu Dhabi. This strategic move is part of ADNEC’s broader goal to enhance its portfolio and strengthen its position in the hospitality and catering sector. The acquisition is expected to be finalized within the next few months, pending regulatory approvals and standard due diligence processes.Royal Catering has established itself as a key player in the UAE’s catering industry, providing high-quality services to
Saudi Arabia’s United International Holding has confirmed plans to sell a 30% stake in the company through an initial public offering (IPO). This decision marks a significant move in the Saudi capital markets, reflecting the broader trend of privatization and investment diversification pursued by the kingdom. The company aims to utilize the funds raised through the IPO to enhance its operations and expand its market presence across various sectors.United International Holding, primarily known for its diversified investments in sectors such
First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), the largest lender in the United Arab Emirates, has reported a remarkable performance for the third quarter of 2024. The bank posted a net profit of $1.2 billion, exceeding analysts' expectations and reflecting a robust 38% year-on-year growth. This surge is attributed to a diversified revenue mix and strong growth across its core banking operations and investment banking division.FAB's positive performance in Q3 was largely driven by non-interest income, which saw significant gains due to
NMC Health, one of the leading healthcare providers in the United Arab Emirates, is set to invest millions of dollars in a significant expansion of its health services across the region. This initiative, announced by the company's CEO, aims to enhance access to quality healthcare and cater to the growing demand for medical services within the UAE. The new health centers will focus on providing comprehensive healthcare solutions, including outpatient services, diagnostic facilities, and specialized medical treatments.The decision to expand
Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) has announced a strategic partnership with ADIB Securities to launch a digital onboarding platform aimed at enhancing customer experience and streamlining investment processes. This collaboration marks a significant step towards digital transformation in the financial services sector, reflecting the broader trend of modernization across markets in the region.The new platform, set to be operational in the coming months, will leverage cutting-edge technology to facilitate seamless account opening and investment transactions for retail investors. By digitizing
Yas Island and Saadiyat Island in Abu Dhabi have experienced a remarkable surge in visitor numbers and hotel occupancy this summer, reflecting the resilience and appeal of the emirate's tourism sector. Various factors, including the easing of pandemic restrictions, a growing array of entertainment options, and strategic marketing campaigns, have collectively contributed to this impressive trend.Yas Island, renowned for its diverse attractions, has reported hotel occupancy rates soaring above 90%. This uptick is attributed to the island's vibrant offerings, including
Tamkeen, a prominent investment firm based in Bahrain, has set the price range for its upcoming initial public offering (IPO), aiming to raise as much as $106 million. The IPO is a significant step for the company, which plans to list on the Bahrain Bourse. The announced price range is set between 0.60 and 0.70 Bahraini Dinars per share, providing an attractive entry point for both retail and institutional investors. This decision is seen as a pivotal moment for the
Sainsbury's largest shareholder, the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA), has reduced its stake in the UK-based supermarket chain. QIA sold approximately 5% of its shares, equivalent to 109.4 million shares, priced at 280 pence per share. This transaction comes after QIA previously held a 14% stake in Sainsbury's, now lowering its ownership to around 9%. The sale was confirmed through regulatory filings, marking a significant reduction in QIA's presence in the retailer.This decision has drawn attention, particularly as it follows a