News related to
Engine

Careem, the region’s leading multi-service platform, has announced a partnership with Bustanica, the world’s largest vertical farm, to deliver fresh, pesticide-free produce directly to customers across the United Arab Emirates . This collaboration aims to enhance access to high-quality, locally grown vegetables, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to food security and sustainable agricultural practices.

Bustanica, a $40 million investment by Emirates Flight Catering and Crop One Holdings, operates a 330,000-square-foot facility near Al Maktoum International Airport in Dubai. Utilising advanced hydroponic technology, the farm produces over 1,000,000 kilograms of leafy greens annually, including lettuce, spinach, parsley, and kale. The innovative farming methods employed allow for cultivation without soil, natural sunlight, or pesticides, and use 95% less water than traditional agriculture.

Through this partnership, Careem’s customers can order Bustanica’s fresh produce via the Careem app, ensuring convenient access to nutritious greens harvested daily. The produce is grown in a controlled environment, free from pesticides, herbicides, and chemicals, guaranteeing high-quality, clean, and safe food options for consumers.

Bustanica’s facility operates on a continuous production cycle, driven by machine learning, artificial intelligence, and a team of experts in agronomy, engineering, horticulture, and plant science. This approach ensures a consistent supply of fresh produce, unaffected by external factors such as weather or pests. The closed-loop system employed in the farm recycles water, leading to significant conservation of resources—saving over 250 million litres annually compared to traditional farming methods.

The collaboration between Careem and Bustanica not only provides consumers with easy access to fresh, locally grown produce but also supports the UAE’s National Food Security Strategy 2051. This strategy emphasises sustainable food production through advanced technology and smart solutions, aiming to balance food security with resource conservation and economic diversification.

By integrating Bustanica’s produce into its delivery platform, Careem is contributing to the promotion of healthy eating habits and the reduction of the UAE’s reliance on imported foods. This initiative aligns with the global trend of adopting vertical farming and other innovative agricultural practices to address food security challenges, especially in regions with arid climates and limited arable land.

The partnership also highlights the role of technology in revolutionising the agriculture sector. Bustanica’s use of artificial intelligence and machine learning optimises growing conditions, enhances crop yields, and ensures the efficient use of resources. This model of farming presents a viable solution for sustainable food production in urban settings, reducing the carbon footprint associated with food transportation and promoting environmental conservation.

As the UAE prepares to host the COP28 summit, initiatives like the Careem-Bustanica partnership underscore the nation’s commitment to environmental sustainability and innovative solutions to global challenges. By investing in and supporting such projects, the UAE is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable agriculture and food security on the world stage.

The American University of Sharjah’s College of Engineering has successfully renewed accreditation for its seven undergraduate programs through the Commission for Academic Accreditation of the UAE Ministry of Education. This achievement underscores the university’s commitment to maintaining high educational standards and providing quality engineering education in the region.

The accredited programs include Bachelor of Science degrees in Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Computer Science. This comprehensive accreditation ensures that each program meets rigorous academic and professional criteria, aligning with both national and international standards.

Dr. Susan Mumm, Chancellor of AUS, expressed pride in this accomplishment, stating that it reflects the university’s dedication to excellence in engineering education. She emphasized that such recognition not only enhances the institution’s reputation but also assures current and prospective students of the quality and relevance of their chosen programs.

The CAA serves as the UAE’s federal quality assurance agency for higher education, responsible for licensing institutions and accrediting academic programs. Its role is pivotal in ensuring that educational offerings in the country adhere to international best practices and equip graduates with the necessary skills and knowledge for their professional careers.

In addition to CAA accreditation, AUS’s engineering programs have also been reaccredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology through September 30, 2030. ABET accreditation is a globally recognized endorsement that signifies a program’s adherence to quality standards essential for graduates entering the engineering profession.

Dr. Fadi Aloul, Dean of the College of Engineering, highlighted the significance of these accreditations, noting that they are a testament to the faculty’s dedication, the university’s robust curriculum, and the continuous efforts to align with industry advancements. He added that such achievements position AUS graduates competitively in the global job market.

The rigorous accreditation process involves comprehensive evaluations of program curricula, faculty qualifications, facilities, and institutional support. These assessments ensure that the programs not only meet academic standards but also effectively prepare students for the challenges of the engineering field.

Students and alumni have also expressed their satisfaction with the renewed accreditations. Many believe that graduating from accredited programs enhances their employment prospects and provides assurance to employers regarding the quality of education they have received.

The probability of a Litecoin Exchange-Traded Fund gaining approval in 2025 has surged to 85%, as indicated by the prediction platform Polymarket. This significant development reflects growing optimism within the cryptocurrency community and among investors regarding the potential mainstream acceptance of Litecoin-based financial products.

Polymarket, a decentralized information markets platform, enables users to speculate on the outcomes of future events by trading shares that correspond to specific predictions. The current 85% figure represents the collective sentiment of market participants who believe that regulatory bodies are likely to approve a Litecoin ETF within the current year.

The push for cryptocurrency ETFs has been a focal point for financial institutions and investors aiming to integrate digital assets into traditional financial markets. Bitcoin and Ethereum, the leading cryptocurrencies, have been at the forefront of this movement, with several ETF proposals submitted to regulatory authorities worldwide. The increasing attention towards Litecoin suggests a broadening interest in diversifying crypto-based financial instruments.

Litecoin, often referred to as the “silver to Bitcoin’s gold,” was created in 2011 by Charlie Lee, a former Google engineer. It offers faster transaction confirmation times and a different hashing algorithm compared to Bitcoin, positioning itself as a more efficient alternative for everyday transactions. Over the years, Litecoin has maintained a strong presence in the cryptocurrency market, consistently ranking among the top digital assets by market capitalization.

The potential approval of a Litecoin ETF could have several implications for the financial markets. Firstly, it would provide institutional and retail investors with a regulated and familiar vehicle to gain exposure to Litecoin without the need to directly purchase and store the cryptocurrency. This could lead to increased liquidity and potentially reduce volatility in Litecoin’s market price.

The introduction of a Litecoin ETF could signal a maturation of the cryptocurrency market, indicating that regulatory bodies are becoming more comfortable with digital assets beyond Bitcoin and Ethereum. This could pave the way for a wider array of crypto-based financial products, offering investors more options to diversify their portfolios.

However, the path to ETF approval is not without challenges. Regulatory agencies, such as the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission , have historically been cautious in approving cryptocurrency ETFs, citing concerns over market manipulation, custody solutions, and the overall volatility of digital assets. While there have been instances of ETF approvals in other jurisdictions, the U.S. market remains a significant hurdle for widespread adoption.

In response to these challenges, proponents of a Litecoin ETF have been actively engaging with regulators to address their concerns. This includes implementing robust custody solutions, ensuring transparent pricing mechanisms, and demonstrating compliance with existing financial regulations. The collaborative efforts between the cryptocurrency industry and regulatory bodies aim to create a framework that balances innovation with investor protection.

The broader cryptocurrency market has been experiencing a period of growth and increased adoption. Major financial institutions have begun offering crypto-related services, and several countries are exploring the development of central bank digital currencies . This evolving landscape suggests a shift towards the normalization of digital assets within the global financial system.

Investors and market analysts are closely monitoring the developments surrounding the potential approval of a Litecoin ETF. While the 85% probability indicated by Polymarket reflects a strong belief in a favorable outcome, it is essential to approach such predictions with caution. The regulatory environment is complex and subject to change, and past performance is not indicative of future results.

As the year progresses, the cryptocurrency community will be attentively observing regulatory announcements and market responses. The approval of a Litecoin ETF could serve as a catalyst for further innovation and acceptance of digital assets within traditional finance. Conversely, delays or rejections could prompt a reevaluation of strategies among crypto advocates and investors.

Sharjah and Neuchâtel have embarked on a collaborative venture to enhance manufacturing and innovation sectors. A business roundtable, organised by Invest in Sharjah in partnership with the Consulate General of the UAE in Geneva, served as the platform for this initiative. The event aimed to explore synergies and establish robust economic ties between the UAE and Switzerland.

The roundtable witnessed the participation of key stakeholders from both regions, including government officials, industry leaders, and representatives from academic institutions. Discussions centred on potential partnerships, knowledge exchange, and investment opportunities in advanced manufacturing technologies and innovative solutions.

Switzerland, renowned for its precision engineering and technological advancements, presents a valuable model for Sharjah’s burgeoning industrial sector. Conversely, Sharjah offers a strategic gateway to Middle Eastern markets, providing Swiss enterprises with avenues for expansion and collaboration.

The UAE and Switzerland have a history of strong bilateral relations, with the UAE being Switzerland’s most significant trading partner in the Middle East. The annual trade volume between the two nations stands at approximately CHF 15 billion, encompassing sectors such as precious metals, jewellery, and pharmaceuticals. This collaboration seeks to build upon existing ties, fostering economic growth and technological innovation.

Invest in Sharjah, the investment promotion agency of the emirate, has been instrumental in facilitating such international partnerships. By organising events like the business roundtable, the agency aims to position Sharjah as a hub for innovation and industry, attracting foreign investments and fostering a conducive environment for business growth.

The Consulate General of the UAE in Geneva has also played a pivotal role in bridging the gap between Emirati and Swiss entities. Through diplomatic channels and economic forums, the consulate strives to enhance mutual understanding and cooperation, paving the way for successful collaborations.

Participants at the roundtable expressed optimism about the prospects of this partnership. They highlighted the complementary strengths of Sharjah and Neuchâtel, emphasising that combined efforts could lead to significant advancements in manufacturing processes and innovative practices.

This initiative aligns with the UAE’s broader vision of economic diversification and technological advancement. By leveraging international collaborations, the nation aims to reduce its reliance on traditional industries, embracing a knowledge-based economy driven by innovation and sustainability.

As Sharjah and Neuchâtel embark on this collaborative journey, both regions anticipate a fruitful exchange of ideas, resources, and technologies. This partnership not only strengthens economic ties but also fosters cultural and academic exchanges, enriching the social fabric of both communities.

The International Defence Exhibition 2025, held at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre from 17 to 21 February, has become a focal point for unveiling advanced artificial intelligence technologies poised to redefine modern warfare. Leading defense firms from around the globe have introduced cutting-edge AI-powered systems, emphasizing the transformative impact of AI on defense strategies and capabilities.

One of the prominent exhibitors, TAG Dynamics, a UAE-based defense manufacturer, presented a suite of advanced armored vehicles and defense solutions. Their lineup includes the Terrier X, ARX NS-II, SAIF ST-III, ROBUR LT-300, and BATT UMG ST-II, each designed to enhance battlefield effectiveness through AI integration. Notably, TAG Dynamics unveiled the AI-Enabled Agentic Guard Tower, an armored surveillance platform equipped with sophisticated threat detection systems, 360-degree cameras, and a remote weapon station, offering comprehensive situational awareness and autonomous response capabilities.

In a significant development, EDGE, an advanced technology group based in the UAE, launched a next-generation AI-powered geospatial intelligence platform at IDEX 2025. This platform is engineered to provide real-time analytics and situational awareness, enabling military forces to make informed decisions rapidly. By harnessing AI, the system can process vast amounts of geospatial data, delivering precise target tracking and enhanced operational planning.

The exhibition also highlighted the growing trend of AI integration in unmanned systems. Companies showcased autonomous drones and ground robots capable of executing complex missions without human intervention. These systems are designed to operate in high-risk environments, reducing the need for personnel deployment in hazardous zones. The AI-driven capabilities of these unmanned systems include obstacle navigation, target recognition, and adaptive mission planning, marking a significant leap in autonomous military operations.

Industry experts at IDEX 2025 emphasized the strategic importance of AI in modern defense. The integration of AI into defense systems is not merely a technological advancement but a strategic imperative, enhancing operational efficiency and decision-making speed. As AI continues to evolve, its applications in defense are expected to expand, encompassing areas such as cybersecurity, logistics, and intelligence analysis.