International law firm Addleshaw Goddard has successfully advised Banque Misr and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) on an $80 million syndicated loan extended to Orange Egypt, a leading telecommunications operator in Egypt. The transaction marks a significant development in the country’s telecommunications sector, as the financing will enable Orange Egypt to strengthen its infrastructure and acquire a 5G mobile operating license. This upgrade is expected to enhance mobile network efficiency by delivering faster data speeds and reducing network response times, benefiting consumers and businesses across Egypt. The financing consists of two tranches, with Banque Misr and EBRD…
Author: Steve Laidlaw
Steve Laidlaw
Steve Laidlaw is an entrepreneur, strategist, and founder of several high-growth ventures across Dubai and the UK. Based in the UAE, Steve is the CEO of Digital24, a media and reputation consultancy helping businesses build brand visibility and online authority across the MENA region and beyond. With over 20 years of experience in digital PR, content syndication, and strategic consulting, Steve has worked behind the scenes and on the front lines of brand transformation. His wider portfolio includes 24Black, a performance-driven advisory suite for founders and agencies, and Seven Yachts, a premium charter and yacht management company he co-owns and operates with his wife Clare in Dubai. Steve writes on topics including content strategy, digital reputation, founder branding, and what it really takes to scale in fast-moving markets like Dubai. His style is clear, actionable, and rooted in real operational experience. Follow him on LinkedIn or visit stevelaidlaw.com to learn more.
The sale of the ski chalet sets record for Utah’s most expensive real estate transaction Engel & Völkers has successfully sold the estate featured in the HBO satirical comedy-drama Mountainhead, starring Steve Carell, for more than 50 million US dollars (approx. 43.2 million euros), making it the most expensive property sale ever recorded in the state of Utah. “This estate is truly one of a kind,” says Paul Benson, License Partner at Engel & Völkers Park City. “It combines a world-class location with unmatched amenities and absolute privacy. Properties of this caliber rarely come to market.” The property is perched…
Anticipation is growing for the inaugural edition of Myplant & Garden Middle Eas2025t, set to take place at Dubai Expo City from November 15–17, 2025. As the region’s appetite for sustainable landscaping and green innovation accelerates, the exhibition has named Tanseeq Investment Group as its first official Strategic Partner, marking a key milestone in its expansion into the Middle East. The partnership, announced at the 9th edition of Myplant & Garden in Milan, reflects the rapid growth of the UAE’s landscaping and horticulture sectors—driven by Vision 2030, climate-focused policies, and bold urban development plans. Tanseeq’s involvement sends a strong signal:…
The most eagerly awaited and valued-packed edition of Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) 2025 officially commences today, with thousands of unbeatable offers, free experiences, and family-friendly entertainment designed to make this a summer well spent for everyone. Organised by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), the 28th edition of Dubai’s favourite summer festival runs until 31 August with pocket-friendly prices and great value for everyone across unbeatable shopping, jaw-dropping discounts, show-stopping headline concerts and live entertainment, the season’s biggest-ever prizes, world-class gastronomy, and endless family-friendly experiences at every turn. Bringing a brand-new shopping experience for the first-time ever this year are…
Dubai’s favourite summer festival brings endless ways to stay active this season with a series of indoor mall runs designed for all ages and abilities – perfect for friends, families, and fitness fans alike High-energy mornings of movement, prizes, and fun for everyone kicks off on 28 June at Dubai Hills Mall, followed by City Centre Mirdif on 6 July, Ibn Battuta Mall on 13 July, Mall of the Emirates on 3 August, Wafi Mall on 10 August, before concluding with Dubai Festival City Mall on 31 August Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 26 June 2025: Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) 2025…
Skoda is accelerating its growth in the UAE with the launch of two new flagship showrooms—one located on Airport Road in Abu Dhabi and another set to open soon on Sheikh Zayed Road in Dubai. This expansion brings European-engineered excellence and a digital-first customer experience to more drivers across the emirates. The new showrooms mark a significant step forward in Skoda’s regional strategy, aiming to triple sales volume in the UAE over the next five years. This follows three consecutive years of annual double-digit growth in Abu Dhabi, driven by increasing demand for European quality, cutting-edge technology, and exceptional value.…
Discover an exceptional variety of suites across Al Habtoor Palace Dubai, Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City, and V Hotel Dubai, Curio Collection by Hilton complete with exclusive amenities and the collection’s limited-time ‘Stay Longer & Save More’ offer Al Habtoor City invites guests to indulge in an unforgettable escape in the heart of Dubai, where three iconic hotels—Al Habtoor Palace Dubai, Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City, and V Hotel Dubai, Curio Collection by Hilton—offer an array of stunning suites tailored for every type of traveller. Guests can expect to enjoy their preference of accommodation with everything from regal elegance to…
UAE-based AnaAkhtar, the first EdTech platform in the MENA region dedicated to social, emotional, and behavioral (SEB) development, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University of Jordan to advance SEB learning through collaborative research, joint academic efforts, and regional cooperation. The MoU was signed by H.E. Dr. Nathir Obeidat, President of the University of Jordan, and Ms. Eman Al Otaibi, Founder and CEO of AnaAkhtar, in a ceremony underscoring a shared vision to integrate well-being, behavior, and emotional growth into the core of education. The event was honored by the presence of H.E. Prof. Dr. Adnan Badran, Chairman…
Eyal Ashur is a luxury real estate specialist at AQUA Properties, focusing on Dubai’s elite waterfront communities like Jumeirah Bay, Port de La Mer, and Pearl Jumeirah. With a background in luxury hospitality at The Ritz-Carlton and an MBA in Marketing Management & Intelligence, he blends five-star service with data-driven strategy. As one of La Mer’s leading agents, Eyal is renowned for his expertise and results-driven approach, helping clients secure dream homes and high-value investments in Dubai’s most exclusive locations. How would you describe the current state of the real estate market across the GCC? The GCC’s most dominant market…
Built-in creative AI editing tool and 200MP AI Camera make every memory look its best These days, most of us use our phones to capture life as it happens, family moments, weekend trips, silly faces, and everything in between. But getting those photos and videos to actually look as good as the memories themselves? That’s a different story. With the new HONOR 400 Series, you don’t need to be a professional photographer or spend hours editing. Thanks to the powerful AI Creative Editor, turning your everyday moments into something beautiful is as simple as a few taps. It’s the phone…