Country Hill International (CHI), a leading premium meat and seafood importer and distributor across the GCC, has announced a landmark collaboration with Yamayuki, the iconic Japanese tuna wholesaler operating from Tokyo’s Toyosu Market and led by Yukitaka Yamaguchi, globally recognised as the ‘King of Tuna’. This partnership marks a historic milestone for the UAE, further strengthening CHI’s position as the key facilitator in introducing the world’s most respected tuna authority to the region. As part of the agreement, Yamaguchi-san will travel to the Middle East for the first time, with the occasion to be celebrated through an exclusive event at…
Author: Sam Allcock
Sam Allcock
Sam Allcock is a seasoned journalist and digital marketing expert known for his insightful reporting across business, real estate, travel and lifestyle sectors. His recent work includes high-profile Dubai coverage, such as record-breaking events by AYS Developers. With a career spanning multiple outlets. Sam delivers sharp, engaging content that bridges UK and UAE markets. His writing reflects a deep understanding of emerging trends, making him a trusted voice in regional and international business journalism. Should you need any edits please contact editor@dubaiweek.ae
Rising electricity consumption and emerging industries are fuelling a sharp expansion in solar and wind capacity as governments roll out mega projects and energy storage solutions. A fresh study from DNV, the independent energy expert and assurance provider, reveals that the Middle East is entering a phase of rapid renewable energy expansion, driven by large-scale solar developments and the growing deployment of energy storage. The report, Rise of renewables in the Gulf region, launched today at the World Future Energy Summit, forecasts that variable renewable capacity across MENA will increase roughly tenfold by 2040 and continue rising through to 2060,…
His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, may God protect and preserve him, has issued a Royal Decree formally establishing the International Financial Centre of Oman (IFC Oman) and introducing a standalone legal framework to govern its operations. The creation of IFC Oman supports the Sultanate’s long-term strategy to diversify the national economy, enhance its global standing as a financial services hub, attract foreign capital and foster innovation. This initiative also demonstrates Oman’s commitment to building a reliable and efficient ecosystem capable of delivering advanced financial services that meet the expectations of international investors and institutions. Under the Law of the…
The Hero Dubai Desert Classic has confirmed a new partnership with Reflo, which will become the tournament’s Official Clothing Partner from 2026 onwards. The agreement builds on last year’s collaboration and reflects a shared focus on sustainability. The Hero Dubai Desert Classic returns to Emirates Golf Club from 22 to 25 January. The event has held GEO certification for three years and continues to lead on environmental standards in professional golf. Reflo launched in Dubai in 2021 and has grown into a recognised name in sustainable sportswear. While best known for golf apparel, the brand also serves runners, gym users…
O Gold has relaunched as a lifestyle Super App, turning gold into a daily spending currency. With more than 800,000 users, the move marks a major step in the company’s shift from a digital investment platform to a full gold-based ecosystem. Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 12 January 2026: O Gold, the UAE’s Shariah-compliant gold investment platform, has confirmed its transition into a Super App and launched a gold-backed Mastercard. The update allows users to treat physical gold as a liquid asset for daily use. By linking fractional gold ownership with live payment technology, O Gold now supports both long-term saving…
Fikra Ventures has announced a partnership with Hub71 to develop and grow AI-native companies from Abu Dhabi to global markets. Under the agreement, Fikra Ventures joins Hub71 as a partner venture studio. It will act as a venture builder within Hub71’s Initiate Programme. The company will create AI startups in-house and form joint ventures with selected global AI firms looking to enter the regional market from Abu Dhabi. Wael Aburida, CEO & Managing Partner of Fikra Ventures, and Ahmad Ali Alwan, CEO of Hub71, signed the agreement at Hub71. As global use of AI grows, success depends on more than…
A new report from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) outlines 40 key innovations that can help governments strengthen power systems, widen energy access and support local development. The report explains that there is no single solution for every country. It states that long-term progress depends on linking technology with strong policy, regulation, market design, system operations and business models. IRENA launched the report during a Ministerial Dialogue on the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) at its Assembly. Titled Innovation landscape for sustainable development powered by renewables, the study shows that change happens when technical advances work alongside policy and…
OMODA&JAECOO UAE has entered into a partnership with the Esaad Card Center to expand its support for community initiatives and improve access to mobility services across the UAE. Colonel Salah Mohammed Al Marzouqi, Director of the Esaad Card Center, signed the agreement on behalf of Dubai Police. Mr Will Li, Executive Vice President, signed on behalf of OMODA&JAECOO UAE. Senior officials from both organisations attended the signing. The agreement was finalised on 10 December 2025 and will remain in effect for one year. It provides special vehicle purchase benefits to Esaad cardholders nationwide. Under this partnership, Esaad members can receive…
Under the theme ‘The Light Compass’, Manar Abu Dhabi lit up Abu Dhabi and Al Ain with 22 site-specific artworks across four locations: Jubail Island, Souq Al Mina, Al Qattara Oasis and Al Jimi Oasis. Manar Abu Dhabi, the public light art exhibition led by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) as part of the Public Art Abu Dhabi initiative, closed its second edition on 4 January 2026. The exhibition returned in November 2025 and attracted more than 800,000 visitors. Residents and tourists gathered to explore the emirate’s islands, mangroves, oases and city spaces…
Intersec 2026, the global event for the security, safety and fire protection sectors, will open next week for its 27th edition. The exhibition takes place under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor Bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Ports and Borders Security Council. The event will run from 12 to 14 January 2026 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. This year’s edition will be the largest in Intersec’s history. More than 1,200 exhibitors from over 60 countries are set to attend, along with more than 50,000 trade visitors from around the world. Strong global demand…