News related to
Emerging

Ethiopian Airlines has posted an 8% rise in annual revenue for the 2024/25 financial year, driven by a significant increase in passenger numbers and the expansion of its route network. Despite facing operational challenges on some routes due to ongoing conflicts, the airline’s strategic decisions have enabled it to maintain growth momentum. The company has reported an increase in the volume of passengers, which reflects a strong […]

The Indian real estate market is under increasing pressure, with housing sales plummeting by 20% in major metropolitan areas. Data from ANAROCK reveals that only 96,285 homes were sold in Q2 2025, a sharp decline from 120,335 sales recorded in the same period the previous year. The downturn highlights a growing sense of buyer hesitancy, fuelled by external factors like tariffs imposed by the Trump administration, which have disrupted market stability.

A significant driver of the decline is the mounting uncertainty surrounding global trade dynamics, particularly the new 25% tariffs on key imports. These tariffs are expected to have a ripple effect on several sectors, including real estate, with the affordable housing market feeling the brunt. The tariffs impact micro, small, and medium enterprises —a key demographic for the affordable housing segment—further limiting purchasing power in this sector.

The sharp drop in home sales comes amid skyrocketing property prices. According to ANAROCK, the average price of residential properties in the seven largest Indian cities has increased by 39% over the past two years. Prices jumped from INR 6,470 per square foot in Q2 2023 to INR 8,990 per square foot in Q2 2025. The rapid price surge is another contributing factor to the decline in transactions, as many potential homebuyers are now priced out of the market, especially in the affordable housing sector.

Amid this turbulence, the Reserve Bank of India has opted to maintain its current repo rate at 5.5%, a move that has been closely scrutinised by both the real estate and finance sectors. Analysts had speculated that a rate cut could help rejuvenate the housing market by lowering mortgage rates, especially for those looking to buy within the affordable segment. However, the RBI has opted for caution, mindful of the ongoing global trade tensions and the potential ripple effects on the Indian economy.

Despite the market challenges, there is still hope that long-term confidence in the Indian real estate sector may prevent further deterioration. While short-term factors like interest rates and tariffs play a critical role, a segment of buyers continues to prioritise long-term investment in property. Experts suggest that the market may see a resurgence, particularly if developers introduce more flexible payment schemes and attractive offers during the upcoming festive season. These strategies could help ease affordability concerns and stimulate demand, especially in an environment where many buyers are seeking stability rather than short-term savings.

For developers, the key to weathering the current storm lies in balancing price sensitivity with buyer confidence. Offering more affordable housing options, particularly in emerging suburbs and tier-2 cities, may provide a strategic path forward. As large-scale developers attempt to retain buyer interest, creative financing options, including extended payment plans and discounts, could be key in sustaining sales. However, the central government and the RBI’s policy decisions in the coming months will remain critical to shaping the trajectory of the sector.

The University of Sharjah has entered into a strategic partnership with Binance Academy, aiming to foster innovation and education in blockchain technology. The Memorandum of Understanding between UOS and Binance’s educational arm marks a significant step towards creating new opportunities in blockchain research and talent development. This collaboration aligns with both parties’ commitment to equipping students and researchers with the necessary tools and knowledge to excel in the rapidly advancing Web3 ecosystem.

The MoU was officially signed by Professor Maamar Bettayeb, Vice Chancellor for Research and Graduate Studies at UOS, and Rachel Conlan, Chief Marketing Officer at Binance, in a move designed to pave the way for long-term cooperation. The agreement will see both entities working together to enhance blockchain education, research, and skills development across a range of fields related to emerging technologies.

This initiative underscores the growing demand for expertise in blockchain, a field that continues to disrupt various sectors, from finance to logistics and beyond. UOS, known for its robust academic offerings, will integrate blockchain curriculum and training into its programs, ensuring that students are equipped with cutting-edge knowledge. Binance Academy, leveraging its global blockchain ecosystem, will provide support with educational materials, workshops, and expert-led sessions to ensure students and researchers have access to the latest industry insights and tools.

The partnership between UOS and Binance is set to contribute to the development of a highly skilled workforce capable of navigating the complexities of blockchain, cryptocurrency, and decentralized systems. With Web3 technologies rapidly transforming industries, it is essential for academic institutions and tech companies to collaborate in developing a skilled workforce capable of driving these innovations forward.

Experts predict that blockchain technology will play a key role in shaping the future of digital transactions, governance, and online security. As such, universities like UOS are increasingly looking to align their curricula with industry needs, preparing students for the evolving demands of the global job market. By working with Binance Academy, UOS hopes to offer an advanced understanding of these transformative technologies, with a focus on real-world applications.

The partnership will facilitate knowledge exchange, where UOS faculty and researchers can engage with blockchain pioneers and industry leaders. This two-way collaboration is expected to foster an environment where academic research can influence real-world blockchain solutions, while industry innovations can be tested and refined within the academic sphere. The ultimate goal is to create a pipeline of talent that is both theoretically grounded and practically skilled in blockchain technologies.

This agreement comes as blockchain adoption continues to accelerate across multiple sectors, with a particular focus on financial services, supply chain management, and data security. As governments and businesses explore the potential of blockchain to enhance transparency, efficiency, and security, the need for skilled professionals in the field is more critical than ever.

Binance, the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange, has been a strong proponent of blockchain education through its Binance Academy. This initiative is designed to help users and institutions navigate the complexities of blockchain technology. Binance Academy offers free courses, educational resources, and hands-on training on topics such as decentralised finance, blockchain protocols, and crypto assets, all aimed at empowering the next generation of blockchain innovators.

For UOS, this partnership aligns with its broader mission of driving research excellence and innovation within the UAE’s educational landscape. The university has long been at the forefront of integrating emerging technologies into its academic offerings, and this collaboration with Binance marks a new chapter in its pursuit of excellence in research and education.

UOS also stands to benefit from Binance’s deep expertise in the blockchain space, providing students with access to a global network of professionals, innovators, and technologists. Through this collaboration, UOS aims to position itself as a leader in blockchain education within the region, attracting students and researchers who are eager to develop their expertise in a field that is shaping the future of technology.

Blockchain’s potential to decentralise systems and increase transparency has made it one of the most transformative technologies of the modern age. With widespread adoption expected across both developed and developing nations, educational institutions that focus on blockchain research and development are set to play a pivotal role in fostering the next generation of leaders in the space.

Chris Rokos, the founder of Rokos Capital Management, is making strategic moves to expand his $22 billion hedge fund by setting up an office in Abu Dhabi next year. This step signals a growing trend of financial institutions establishing a foothold in the Middle East as they aim to tap into the region’s increasing significance in global finance.

Abu Dhabi’s financial ecosystem has become a key destination for international money managers, with its combination of tax incentives, a favourable regulatory environment, and proximity to key investment markets. By establishing an office in the UAE capital, Rokos Capital aims to leverage these advantages and enhance its trading strategies across various global markets. This expansion also aligns with a broader push by the hedge fund to diversify its operations and build closer ties with key investors in the region.

The decision to set up an office in Abu Dhabi is expected to attract top-tier talent from around the world, as the region continues to see an influx of skilled professionals seeking new opportunities. Furthermore, the move places Rokos Capital in a prime position to access an increasingly wealthy investor base in the Gulf Cooperation Council states, particularly those with significant holdings in sectors like energy and real estate.

The UAE’s capital is rapidly evolving into a financial hub, with its offerings including some of the world’s most competitive tax rates, an open economic environment, and a growing number of financial services firms. Many hedge funds, private equity firms, and sovereign wealth funds are establishing regional offices in Abu Dhabi to capitalise on these benefits and strengthen their connections with the lucrative markets of the Middle East and North Africa.

Several global players have already set up in the UAE as the emirate works to position itself as an alternative to traditional finance centres like London and New York. The UAE government has introduced various reforms designed to attract international investment, including more relaxed laws on foreign ownership and easier access to its financial markets.

Rokos Capital’s decision reflects a broader trend in the industry, with more asset managers shifting focus to the Middle East as an emerging centre of financial activity. The UAE’s commitment to fostering a dynamic business environment, combined with its strategic geographic location, makes it an attractive option for firms looking to strengthen their global presence.

Despite this, the move also indicates the growing competition among global financial firms to establish a footprint in the Middle East. As the region’s financial market continues to expand, the demand for skilled workers and high-quality investment opportunities is expected to grow, making it an essential market for international hedge funds like Rokos Capital.

By establishing operations in Abu Dhabi, Rokos Capital will be better positioned to manage its diverse portfolio, which spans various asset classes and global markets. This move could also bolster the firm’s trading operations in the region and provide increased access to the considerable liquidity available in local financial markets.

While the details of the office’s specific location and operations are yet to be fully disclosed, this expansion is likely to further cement the UAE’s growing role in global finance. As the financial landscape in the Middle East evolves, the presence of international players such as Rokos Capital will play a crucial role in shaping the future of finance in the region.

A major economic migration is shaping the global landscape, with the UAE emerging as a primary destination for millionaires seeking new opportunities. In 2025, projections indicate that over 140,000 affluent individuals will relocate across borders, and the UAE is set to capture a substantial portion of this wealth migration. Among the largest share of the 142,000 millionaires relocating worldwide, the UAE is expected to see 9,800 of […]

Dubai’s tourism sector has shown impressive growth, with 9.88 million international visitors recorded in the first half of 2025, a significant achievement that underscores the city’s growing prominence on the global tourism map. Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed highlighted this milestone, attributing the success to the leadership and vision of Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid.

This surge in visitor numbers aligns with the ambitions outlined in the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, a strategic plan aiming to position the emirate among the world’s top three tourism destinations. Under this agenda, Dubai seeks to expand its appeal, diversify its tourism offerings, and enhance its global standing, with a clear goal of fostering sustained growth in the sector. The half-year figures reflect strong international interest and robust demand for Dubai’s varied tourism attractions, spanning luxury shopping, iconic architecture, and cultural experiences.

The Dubai government’s commitment to the tourism sector has been evident in a series of high-profile initiatives and investments designed to enhance the city’s appeal. From the development of world-class infrastructure to hosting global events such as Expo 2020 and numerous international conferences, Dubai has positioned itself as a key player in the competitive global tourism market. The city’s tourism recovery, which began after the pandemic, has been swift, drawing millions from across the globe, particularly from Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.

A significant driver of Dubai’s tourism growth is its extensive air connectivity, facilitated by Dubai International Airport, one of the busiest airports in the world. DXB has consistently served as a global hub for international travel, with Emirates airline offering seamless connections to key markets. The airport’s strategic location and connectivity have been instrumental in attracting a steady flow of travellers, particularly from Europe and Asia, who increasingly view Dubai as a prime destination for both business and leisure.

Dubai’s luxury sector, including five-star hotels and upscale shopping malls, has continued to thrive, attracting affluent tourists seeking high-end experiences. The city’s offerings have evolved, with a growing emphasis on experiential travel, which includes culinary tourism, wellness retreats, and adventure tourism. The government’s continued investment in cultural infrastructure, including the Louvre Abu Dhabi and Museum of the Future, enhances Dubai’s appeal to cultural tourists, complementing its already robust retail and entertainment scenes.

Dubai’s rise in the global tourism ranks is not merely the result of external factors, but the active cultivation of a highly attractive destination. The city is known for its safety, cleanliness, and well-organised tourism offerings, with services ranging from luxury experiences to budget-friendly options catering to diverse traveller needs. As tourism numbers continue to rise, Dubai is expected to further strengthen its position as a hub for international events, exhibitions, and conferences.

In line with its long-term goals, Dubai has introduced several initiatives aimed at increasing tourism numbers, such as the Dubai Tourism Strategy 2025, which includes a broader approach to tourism marketing. The strategy focuses on creating innovative marketing campaigns, expanding the city’s digital presence, and engaging with emerging travel trends such as eco-tourism and sustainable travel.

The city’s strategic location, combining Eastern and Western influences, has further cemented Dubai’s appeal as a cultural melting pot, drawing people from all corners of the world. Notable growth has been observed from markets in Asia, particularly China and India, with Dubai becoming an increasingly important destination for affluent travellers looking for luxury, leisure, and business opportunities in a safe and accessible environment.

Dubai’s status as a global financial and business centre has also contributed to the rise in international visits, particularly among business executives and entrepreneurs attending conferences and exhibitions. The emirate’s commitment to enhancing its business tourism infrastructure, including the expansion of its conference venues and the hosting of high-profile business events, is expected to contribute further to the sector’s growth.

With its signature ‘All-Day Chill’ the gaga café phenomenon comes to Galaxy Macau, marking outlet number 99 for the Shenzhen-born brand that’s quietly redefining contemporary café culture MACAU SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 August 2025 – Galaxy Macau™ Integrated Resort (“Galaxy Macau”) today officially opened gaga, the Shenzhen-born dining group’s 99th outlet and first-ever non-mainland location, in Macau. In a natural evolution for China’s most […]

Advertisements

French artificial intelligence startup Mistral is engaged in discussions to secure up to $1 billion in funding, which could elevate its valuation to $10 billion, according to reports from industry insiders. The company is in talks with several investors and venture capital firms, alongside Abu Dhabi-based MGX, to bolster its growth. This funding will enable Mistral to further develop its large language models and accelerate the commercial […]

The Indian government has launched a substantial ₹1 lakh crore initiative aimed at advancing research and development in DeepTech sectors, which include artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and clean energy. The move seeks to position India at the forefront of technological innovation while addressing pressing global challenges, such as climate change and health issues, through groundbreaking advancements.

The scheme, which is the largest of its kind in the country, provides financial support through low-interest loans and grants to organisations engaged in pioneering research within these high-tech fields. This initiative is designed to fuel India’s transition to a knowledge-based economy, empowering domestic companies to compete on the global stage.

The programme has been met with widespread enthusiasm across industries, particularly for its potential to create high-skilled jobs and promote sustainable growth. Industry experts believe that the government’s focus on DeepTech will provide the necessary infrastructure for start-ups and established companies to undertake transformative research, particularly in AI and biotechnology, areas that are expected to revolutionise industries globally.

The scheme is structured to benefit both large-scale enterprises and smaller start-ups, ensuring a wide distribution of opportunities across the technology ecosystem. By offering loans with highly favourable interest rates, the government is incentivising private investment in research and innovation. These funds can be used for a variety of purposes, including product development, infrastructure creation, and collaboration with academic institutions. The emphasis on clean energy projects is particularly timely, given the global push towards sustainability and reducing carbon footprints.

Aimed at fostering a more robust R&D culture, this initiative also ties into broader national objectives, such as strengthening India’s technological independence and making strides towards self-reliance. By facilitating the creation of homegrown technologies, the government hopes to reduce the nation’s dependence on foreign technologies and build a self-sustaining innovation ecosystem.

The programme is expected to bring a ripple effect, spurring greater investment in the country’s deep-tech space. This comes at a time when global investors are showing increasing interest in emerging markets like India, particularly in sectors that address environmental concerns and healthcare challenges. Experts suggest that this initiative could make India a major player in AI, clean energy, and biotech, which have seen explosive growth globally.

This initiative builds upon earlier steps taken by the government to boost technological innovation. A notable example is the government’s push for AI adoption across industries, with initiatives such as the National AI Strategy. Moreover, India’s growing digital infrastructure, which includes expanding internet access and cloud capabilities, is seen as a foundation for the country to lead in cutting-edge research and development.

With AI poised to reshape industries such as healthcare, agriculture, and education, the government’s focus on AI-driven projects through this scheme could significantly enhance the country’s global competitiveness. For example, AI technologies are expected to play a critical role in optimising supply chains, improving healthcare diagnostics, and even contributing to smarter urban planning and infrastructure.

Similarly, India’s biotechnology sector, which has been a cornerstone of the nation’s medical advancements, stands to benefit enormously from the new scheme. Biotechnology holds promise for breakthroughs in disease treatment, diagnostics, and sustainable agricultural practices. With government backing, researchers and innovators will have access to the necessary resources to push the boundaries of what is currently possible in life sciences.

The clean energy component of the scheme is particularly crucial in the context of global environmental concerns. India, as one of the world’s largest emitters of carbon dioxide, has made ambitious commitments to reduce its carbon footprint, and this initiative is aligned with those goals. By providing financial incentives for renewable energy projects, including solar, wind, and hydrogen energy, the government is fostering an ecosystem conducive to green innovation.

The scheme also complements India’s broader economic reforms aimed at boosting manufacturing and technological self-sufficiency under the “Make in India” programme. By nurturing DeepTech innovation, India could develop indigenous solutions that cater not just to domestic needs but also to international markets, enhancing its stature as a hub for cutting-edge technology.

As part of its effort to ensure the programme’s success, the government is also facilitating partnerships between industry players and academia. This collaborative approach is intended to strengthen the research base and bridge the gap between innovation and practical application. Partnerships with international research bodies are also expected to enhance India’s global position in deep-tech innovation.

By K Raveendran Donald Trump’s aggressive tariff regime, launched under the guise of bolstering American strength and reclaiming lost economic ground, has triggered a worldwide response that may ultimately defeat the very goal it seeks to achieve. Framed as a nationalist project to assert America’s economic primacy, the tariff war has turned out to be […]
By Nitya Chakraborty It is not a cliché to say that our powerful Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s moment truth has arrived after 11 years of ruling the country as the unchallenged leader. The 25 per cent tariff hike on Indian exports announced by the United States President Donald Trump on Wednesday and taking effect from […]

SHANGHAI, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 August 2025 – InMobi, a global leader in mobile advertising and AI-powered monetization, is taking center stage at ChinaJoy 2025, highlighting its unparalleled growth and unwavering commitment to the Chinese developer ecosystem. With over 80% penetration among China’s top 100 gaming publishers and near-complete publisher retention InMobi has acheived a two-fold increase in revenue for Chinese partners between H1 […]

Gulf nations now account for over half of global environmental, social, and governance sukuk issuances in the first half of 2025, underscoring their growing leadership in sustainable Islamic finance. Sukuk linked to ESG objectives saw a 12 per cent rise to approximately $50 billion outstanding globally in H1 2025, with Gulf Cooperation Council countries contributing the majority of this volume. Saudi Arabia and the UAE emerged as principal issuers, driving […]

The UAE Cybersecurity Council has entered into a significant partnership with Rilian Technologies, aiming to enhance the security of the nation’s critical infrastructure. This collaboration, established in conjunction with CPX Holding, will integrate state-of-the-art technology solutions, both from local and international partners, to safeguard the country’s vital digital and physical assets. This strategic move reflects the UAE’s commitment to fortifying its cybersecurity framework in an era of […]

The Securities and Exchange Board of India has escalated its investigation into the trading activities of Jane Street, a global proprietary trading firm, as part of a broader probe into alleged market manipulation. The regulatory body has now requested trading data from several Indian stock exchanges, further deepening its scrutiny of the firm’s involvement in the country’s financial markets.

SEBI’s action stems from claims that Jane Street engaged in manipulation of stock indices through derivative positions. This move follows a regulatory ban imposed on the firm in early July, which temporarily barred it from conducting any trading activities in Indian markets. The ban was issued after SEBI’s preliminary findings suggested that Jane Street had used complex strategies to artificially influence the performance of key stock indices.

As part of the ongoing investigation, SEBI is focusing on obtaining detailed trading records from exchanges including the Bombay Stock Exchange and the National Stock Exchange of India. The goal is to determine whether the firm’s activities, particularly its use of derivatives, involved any illegal practices that could have distorted market prices or harmed retail investors.

Industry experts suggest that the regulator’s heightened interest in Jane Street reflects a broader concern about the role of large institutional traders in shaping market dynamics. Derivative positions, often leveraged and high-risk, can be used to exert significant influence on the underlying stocks, especially in a market as liquid as India’s. By examining data from exchanges, SEBI aims to clarify the extent of Jane Street’s trading strategies and assess whether they align with Indian securities laws.

The investigation is seen as a key test of SEBI’s ability to enforce its regulations on foreign firms operating in India’s rapidly growing financial markets. Despite the firm’s global operations, Jane Street has a significant presence in India, with its trading strategies often tied to the country’s major stock indices. The firm’s complex use of derivatives, particularly index futures, has drawn scrutiny from both regulators and market participants, who have raised concerns about potential market distortion.

Jane Street, which is based in the United States, has yet to publicly comment on SEBI’s request for trading data or the investigation itself. The firm has previously maintained that its activities are compliant with global market regulations, including those in India. However, the SEBI inquiry underscores growing concerns among global regulators about the tactics employed by large-scale traders in emerging markets.

The investigation into Jane Street is part of a broader initiative by SEBI to strengthen its oversight of foreign investment in India. Over the past few years, SEBI has been increasingly focused on improving market transparency and curbing potential manipulative practices, particularly in high-frequency trading and derivative markets. While foreign firms play an essential role in providing liquidity to Indian markets, their influence has raised alarms about potential market imbalances.

Market analysts point out that the use of derivatives and other sophisticated financial instruments by international trading firms has brought India into closer alignment with global financial markets. However, the rise of algorithmic and high-frequency trading has led to concerns over market stability, especially in volatile times. In response, SEBI has ramped up its efforts to ensure that such trading does not compromise the fairness or integrity of the market.

In the wake of SEBI’s actions, some market participants have called for more stringent regulations governing the use of derivatives in India. While derivatives are legal and widely used, their impact on the underlying markets can sometimes be opaque, especially when large institutional players use them in tandem with other strategies to influence stock movements. Calls for greater transparency and stricter enforcement mechanisms are expected to intensify as the investigation continues.

The timing of SEBI’s investigation is significant, as it comes at a time of heightened global scrutiny on market manipulation and the role of high-frequency traders. In the wake of high-profile cases involving market abuses in other jurisdictions, regulators are under pressure to ensure that trading practices do not undermine investor confidence or market integrity.

Travelers at Dubai International Airport could soon experience a major shift in security procedures, as plans are underway to remove the requirement for passengers to remove liquids and laptops from their bags before screening. The anticipated change aims to enhance efficiency and streamline the airport experience while maintaining high security standards. This move, still in its pilot phase, is part of a broader global trend where airports […]

Gold retailer Joyalukkas has secured a significant financing deal with Emirates NBD, confirming a revolving credit facility of 500 million UAE dirhams. The facility will aid Joyalukkas in accelerating its expansion strategy across key international markets, which include the GCC, UK, US, Canada, and Australia. The partnership between Joyalukkas and Emirates NBD is designed to support the retailer’s ambitions by ensuring smooth operational liquidity, particularly during high-demand […]

Proton’s new Lumo AI tool is setting a bold example for privacy-conscious users seeking an alternative to mainstream AI services like ChatGPT. The tool promises to offer the powerful capabilities of conversational AI without compromising user data security, a key differentiator in a crowded market. Lumo AI, developed by Proton, a company known for its privacy-first approach with services like Proton Mail, integrates advanced natural language processing […]

M. A. Hossain When Dmitry Medvedev, former Russian president and current deputy chair of Russia’s Security Council, addressed the Liberation Movements Summit in South Africa on July 27, his message was as predictable as it was provocative: Russia stands with Africa in the fight against neocolonialism and envisions a multipolar world. Coming from a Kremlin official, this claim may appear noble at first glance—until one examines the underlying logic, […]

The Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy has introduced The Entrepreneur’s AI Playbook, a strategic guide designed to equip businesses with essential tools to leverage artificial intelligence for growth and innovation. This new initiative is set to support entrepreneurs in integrating AI technologies into their operations and improve overall business performance.

The playbook offers a comprehensive approach to understanding and implementing AI in various sectors, including retail, finance, logistics, and manufacturing. It features step-by-step instructions on how to start using AI, from adopting the right technologies to ensuring scalability. By emphasising AI’s transformative potential, the Dubai Chamber aims to accelerate the digital economy and position the UAE as a global leader in tech-driven entrepreneurship.

Dubai has been at the forefront of the digital transformation in the Middle East, and the launch of this playbook aligns with the Chamber’s vision to create a robust ecosystem for technology adoption across businesses. The playbook is intended to help both established companies and startups identify the most suitable AI tools to streamline their processes, enhance customer experiences, and drive profitability.

The timing of this release comes as AI continues to disrupt industries worldwide, creating both challenges and opportunities for business owners. AI’s ability to automate routine tasks, enhance decision-making, and personalise services makes it an attractive option for companies looking to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving market. However, despite the benefits, many entrepreneurs still face significant barriers to AI adoption, including a lack of understanding, high implementation costs, and concerns about data privacy.

The playbook addresses these challenges by providing clear, actionable insights that guide users on how to navigate these hurdles. It covers various AI applications, including machine learning, natural language processing, and automation tools, providing practical case studies to demonstrate their effectiveness in real-world business scenarios. The playbook also provides resources for entrepreneurs to upskill their workforce, ensuring that companies can build internal capabilities to manage AI integration seamlessly.

One of the key features of the playbook is its emphasis on ethical AI use. As AI systems become more advanced, ethical considerations around data privacy, bias, and transparency are gaining importance. The playbook includes guidelines on how entrepreneurs can ensure their use of AI remains ethical, highlighting the need for responsible data handling practices and fairness in AI-driven decisions.

Experts believe the playbook could significantly improve the UAE’s competitive edge in the global digital economy. By enabling entrepreneurs to harness the power of AI effectively, the initiative could drive innovation across multiple sectors and attract international investments. The playbook also represents the Dubai Chamber’s commitment to creating a future-ready business environment that fosters innovation and digital growth.

The release of The Entrepreneur’s AI Playbook is a part of a broader initiative by the Dubai Chamber to cultivate a thriving digital economy. The Chamber has been actively working to expand the reach of AI and other emerging technologies, offering various training programs, workshops, and collaborations with industry leaders to further the development of digital capabilities among businesses in the UAE.

Entrepreneurs and business owners in Dubai have welcomed the introduction of the playbook, with many highlighting its practical approach to AI implementation. For small and medium-sized enterprises, the playbook offers a valuable resource to overcome the complexity of AI adoption. Entrepreneurs can now explore how AI can be a game-changer in driving efficiency and customer satisfaction without the need for massive upfront investments in technology infrastructure.

MoneyGram, a global leader in digital payments, has announced the resumption of its money transfer services through a newly reinvigorated partnership with Bank AlJazira, one of Saudi Arabia’s prominent banking institutions. This move marks a significant step in advancing the Kingdom’s financial landscape, offering seamless physical and digital cross-border money movement solutions across the country.

The collaboration will allow MoneyGram to leverage Bank AlJazira’s expansive network of physical locations, ensuring that customers in Saudi Arabia can send and receive funds swiftly and securely. It also highlights the growing importance of digital channels in a nation increasingly shifting toward a more digitally integrated economy. The resumption of these services comes at a crucial time, with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 blueprint pushing for greater financial inclusion and a more robust digital ecosystem.

MoneyGram has long been a key player in the cross-border payments industry, with its services spanning more than 200 countries and territories. In Saudi Arabia, the company is now positioned to meet the demands of an expanding customer base that increasingly seeks more accessible, secure, and instantaneous ways to transfer funds internationally.

The partnership with Bank AlJazira, a major player in Saudi’s banking sector, offers a wide-reaching solution for those in the Kingdom who rely on international money transfers for both personal and business purposes. Saudi Arabia has long been one of the largest remittance markets globally, with millions of people relying on money transfer services to send funds to family members overseas.

Saudi Arabia’s vision to become a global financial hub in the region has paved the way for international financial institutions to enter the market, forming partnerships to enhance the ease of conducting international transactions. The latest collaboration between MoneyGram and Bank AlJazira exemplifies this trend, aligning with the Kingdom’s ongoing push to modernise financial infrastructure, streamline cross-border payments, and ensure broader access to digital services.

The financial ecosystem in Saudi Arabia is rapidly evolving. The country’s push for digital transformation is supported by extensive government initiatives, including the Saudi Payments Company and the Financial Sector Development Programme. These initiatives aim to facilitate a more secure, transparent, and inclusive financial landscape. As part of this ongoing transformation, the re-establishment of MoneyGram’s services through a leading bank like AlJazira offers not only more efficient payment processing but also greater accessibility to the broader public.

MoneyGram’s digital capabilities will complement Bank AlJazira’s offerings, ensuring that both physical and digital touchpoints are well-integrated for consumers who demand flexibility in their money transfers. This move also benefits both businesses and individuals, particularly those who may prefer using mobile apps or websites to send money to and from international locations.

The recent resumption of services takes place amidst growing competition in the cross-border payment space. With numerous global players, including Western Union, PayPal, and emerging fintech startups, expanding their presence in Saudi Arabia, MoneyGram’s ability to leverage a strong local partnership enhances its positioning in the market. The company’s collaboration with Bank AlJazira provides it with an opportunity to tap into a network of customers who value both security and convenience.

Bank AlJazira, with its strong reputation in the Kingdom, offers a well-established platform that can seamlessly integrate with MoneyGram’s international remittance network. This partnership will allow consumers and businesses alike to experience an enhanced service offering, particularly in terms of speed and ease of access to funds. With a robust infrastructure already in place, this new initiative seeks to further enhance the efficiency of cross-border payments for people within and outside Saudi Arabia.

With Saudi Arabia focusing on economic diversification and growing international trade partnerships, the enhanced digital and physical money transfer services come at an opportune moment. The Kingdom’s ambitious Vision 2030 plan, which includes bolstering the digital economy and expanding financial services, presents a dynamic backdrop for collaborations like this. By tapping into the burgeoning digital economy, MoneyGram and Bank AlJazira are aligning themselves with the country’s long-term goals.

Greenlogue/AP RIYADH: Strategic adoption of artificial intelligence and climate resilience measures could contribute an additional $232 billion to the Middle East’s economy by 2035, according to a report by PwC. The professional services firm highlights that AI-driven productivity improvements, coupled with focused environmental strategies, are expected to significantly boost the region’s GDP, taking it to an estimated $4.68 trillion by 2035, compared to the current figure of […]

Dubai International has reported a significant surge in passenger traffic during the first half of 2025, registering its busiest six months ever. The airport welcomed 46 million passengers in this period, reflecting a growth of 2.3 per cent compared to the same time last year. This robust performance highlights Dubai’s vital position as a global aviation hub, even amidst challenges like temporary regional airspace disruptions. The airport’s […]

Linux Kernel 6.16, unveiled for developers and users alike, brings several strategic updates aimed at enhancing compatibility, performance, and support for key hardware players such as AMD, Intel, and NVIDIA. The new release focuses on optimising the use of cutting-edge processors and graphics technologies, providing a robust platform for the latest hardware innovations across multiple devices. The inclusion of critical updates for AMD, Intel, and NVIDIA graphics […]

VISHNU RAJA
RYO YAMADA
HITORI GOTOH
IKUYO KITA