Author: Stuart

26 high-growth startups selected for Hub71’s 17th Cohort, collectively securing over USD 223 million (AED 818 million) – the largest funding total for any cohort to date 81% of the startups are AI-driven, developing solutions across Abu Dhabi’s priority sectors, including healthcare, finance, energy, and ClimateTech Majority of companies are seed-stage ventures from 12 countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Singapore, and India Hub71, Abu Dhabi’s global tech ecosystem, has welcomed its most AI-focused cohort to date, with 26 high-growth startups joining its 17th Cohort. Collectively, these companies have raised over USD 223 million (AED 818 million) — the…

Dubai Investments, a diversified investment company listed on the Dubai Financial Market (DFM), has entered into a strategic agreement with Angola’s Sovereign Wealth Fund (FSDEA) to deliver large-scale real estate projects in Luanda Province, Angola. The partnership, formalised in Luanda, represents a joint vision to drive a new era of investment in modern urbanisation and sustainable development across the Angolan capital. The initial phase will focus on transforming Cazanga Island within the Luanda Archipelago into a key destination. The agreement was signed by Khalid Bin Kalban, Vice Chairman and CEO of Dubai Investments, and Armando Manuel, Chairman of FSDEA. The…

• Milestone Grenadier delivered to customer in Saudi Arabia• Industry veteran Dan Balmer appointed to spearhead expansion• New Middle East & Africa headquarters launched in Dubai INEOS Automotive has reached a key milestone in its Middle East journey, celebrating the delivery of its 1,000th Grenadier 4X4 just over two years since its launch in the region. The British-engineered off-roader has quickly won over adventurers, professionals, and off-road enthusiasts across the GCC. Accelerating Regional Expansion Building on its rapidly growing global presence, INEOS Automotive is scaling up operations across the Middle East and Africa. The company has appointed Dan Balmer as…

As the UAE continues to bridge cultural heritage with global influences, modest fashion in 2026 emphasizes innovation while upholding core values of elegance and discretion. Designers are focusing on pieces that offer versatility, allowing women to navigate diverse settings from professional environments to social gatherings. This year, trends highlight a fusion of traditional elements with contemporary twists, making modest attire more accessible and expressive. Seasonal Shifts in Silhouettes and Layers Spring and summer collections prioritize light layers to combat the desert heat, incorporating flowy silhouettes that promote airflow without compromising coverage. Vibrant hues like bold corals and electric blues dominate,…

Dubai’s property sector is one of the most dynamic in the world. From luxury apartments on the Palm Jumeirah to large-scale off-plan communities, the market is drawing investors from across the globe. Thousands of brokerages and developers are competing for attention, but in 2025, success is no longer determined by who has the most listings or the largest sales team. The real differentiator is how agencies market themselves: digitally, globally, and strategically. That is where Seven52, a Dubai-based digital agency, has made its mark. Specialising in brand identity, website design, CRM integration, and digital marketing for the real estate sector,…

TotalEnergies Corbion, a global leader in bioplastics innovation, has announced a strategic partnership with Multi Trade Group, appointing the company as its exclusive distribution partner for Luminy® PLA in the United Arab Emirates, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and the wider Middle East region. Luminy® PLA (polylactic acid) offers exceptional strength and durability for reusable products while supporting sustainable end-of-life solutions for disposable applications. Unlike conventional plastics, which persist in the environment, Luminy® PLA can be reused, mechanically and chemically recycled, or industrially composted, breaking down faster than everyday organic waste such as banana or orange peels. The Luminy® portfolio…

Influencers ranked as least trusted for the first time: 21% of UAE residents believe social media influencers have the poorest reputation. Telemarketing concerns persist: Telemarketers and call centres follow closely at 19%. Credit card issuers (13%) and real estate brokers (8%) continue to face criticism due to high charges and misleading advice. Recruiters remain in fourth place, rising slightly from 9% to 11%, signalling the need for improved transparency and responsiveness. Westerners, Arab expats, and Emiratis are most critical of influencers, whereas Asians (23%) expressed stronger dissatisfaction with telemarketing. Perceptions of financial advisers improve: Bank advisers dropped from 12% to…

Dubai’s thriving business and events landscape is driving a growing demand for printing services in Dubai, as organizations seek high-quality visual solutions to enhance branding, marketing, and communication. From corporate events and trade shows to retail campaigns, companies are increasingly relying on professional printing to create a strong visual presence and engage audiences effectively. Globally, the printed signage market reached approximately US$41.67 billion in 2024, with banners and backdrops alone accounting for nearly 33.9% of the market. This underscores the continued importance of large-format visuals in events and exhibitions worldwide. Within the UAE, the commercial printing sector was valued at USD 3.43 billion…

This autumn, sweet indulgence meets streaming entertainment as Gelateria La Romana UAE launches four exclusive, limited-edition gelato flavours in collaboration with Netflix. Inspired by some of the platform’s most popular series, these special creations will be available from September to November for guests to enjoy. The seasonal collection includes: Netflix Popcorn & Chill – a caramelised popcorn swirl capturing the delight of your favourite Netflix stories. Stranger Banana Split – a fun tribute to the adventures of Stranger Things. Dalgona Biscuit – crunchy sweetness inspired by Squid Game. Gum Gum Choco Berry – a rich chocolate and berry combination celebrating…

Alona Shevtsova, CEO of the British fintech company Sends, will moderate a panel discussion at the Middle East Banking Innovation Summit (MEBIS) 2025 in Dubai. The session will focus on strategies for banking technology innovation and scale-up. Alona Shevtsova is a moderator of a panel discussion titled “Navigating the digital frontier: Strategies for banking technology leaders in a rapidly evolving landscape” at the Middle East Banking Innovation Summit (MEBIS) 2025, taking place on 17–18 September 2025 at Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Dubai. The panel will bring together senior executives and decision-makers from across the banking and fintech industries to discuss the…