Ben Crompton, Managing Partner at Crompton Partners, discusses the new Madhmoun property listing concept, how it will enhance the sector’s global standing and how a good agent is still key to ensuring a smooth transaction. The launch of Madhmoun (meaning “verified” in Arabic) marks a significant shift in the Abu Dhabi real estate landscape, and from where I stand, it is a great addition. At Crompton Partners, we have always advocated for high standards and greater accountability across the sector, so the move toward verified listings is something we welcome wholeheartedly. Buyers deserve to know that what they see online…
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.
Dubai Investments, a leading investment company listed on the Dubai Financial Market, has officially broken ground on Asayel Avenue, a new residential cluster expanding the AED 2.2 billion Mirdif Hills master development in the community of Mirdif. Developed through Dubai Investment Real Estate (DIR), the real estate arm of Dubai Investments, the project marks an exciting new phase of growth for one of Dubai’s most successful and established residential destinations. The ground-breaking ceremony was attended by senior executives from Dubai Investments and Dubai Investments Real Estate (DIR), along with representatives from the appointed consultants and contractors, reflecting the Group’s ongoing…
Firm expands into ADGM to support UAE’s economic diversification and deliver world-class legal services across key sectors under Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030 International law firm Addleshaw Goddard has announced that it has obtained its license to operate in Abu Dhabi, further strengthening its presence in the Middle East. The firm has also opened a new office in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), the capital’s leading international financial centre. This milestone builds on the firm’s strategic ambition to expand its footprint across the Middle East and support clients in one of the region’s key economic hubs. Abu Dhabi’s dynamic economy,…
Vienna-based startup serving 1,000+ properties raises funding to revolutionize hospitality communication with industry-first AI chatlyn recently opened its Dubai office to strengthen its presence in the Middle East chatlyn, the AI communication hub transforming how hotels engage with guests across every touchpoint, announced today it has secured €8 million in Series A funding led by Smedvig Ventures. The round included participation from AnyDesk founder Andreas Burike, Austrian transport leader Blaguss, business angel Mathias Hiebeler (former owner of Grob aircraft, acquired by Helsing), and strategic hospitality angels. The company also received an innovation grant from the FFG, Austria’s national funding institution…
Home Centre, the Middle East’s leading home retailer, has officially launched Home Centre Collective — a region-first live performance series that reimagines its retail spaces as immersive stages for culture, creativity, and community across Saudi Arabia and UAE. The platform reflects a growing creative energy across the GCC — particularly in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, where investment in arts, music, and cultural expression is on the rise. Home Centre Collective was born from this cultural moment, designed to be an ongoing space where authenticity, art, and community can meet and live, in-store. “We are incredibly proud to be launching…
With Daily Usage Tripling Since Launch, the Platform Is Enabling Smarter Car Decisions with AI-Powered Valuations, Verified History, and Market-Wide Transparency A year ago, purchasing a used car in the GCC often meant navigating limited information and a lack of transparency. In response, AutoData Middle East launched Vehicle Report – an AI-powered platform designed to place greater control in the hands of consumers. Over the past 12 months, more than 42,000 users have turned to the service to access verified data on ownership, accident history, valuation, and more. Daily usage has tripled between July 2024 and March 2025, with over 5,000 users now engaging each…
A reimagined brunch experience where soulful flavours, beachside views, and live music come together Maison Mathis at voco Dubai The Palm has elevated its Saturday offering with a refreshed brunch concept that celebrates laid-back indulgence, thoughtful cooking, and breezy beachfront charm. Running every Saturday from 1pm to 4pm, the new brunch introduces a curated selection of reimagined European-inspired dishes, flowing drinks, and live entertainment, designed to bring friends and families together for a weekend ritual done right. The newly curated menu brings together familiar favourites with a fresh twist — golden truffle risotto bites, sticky beef ribs, garlicky shrimp, and…
The event highlighted the importance for digital sovereignty and leadership for the UAE through technological advancement. du, the leading telecom and digital services provider, hosted a prestigious C-suite gathering titled “Unleashing the Power of Sovereign Cloud for Modern Government” at the Mohammed bin Rashid Library in Al Jaddaf, Dubai. The event brought together senior executives, decision-makers, and technology leaders from government and public sector entities, all focused on accelerating digital transformation across the UAE. The global telecom cloud market is poised for growth, reaching USD 73.65 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 19.7%. Designed to address the unique…
Trinity Rental Car Boutique is proud to announce that it has been honored with the prestigious Arabian Best of Best Awards in the “Best Car Rental Company” category, recognising the company’s contribution to the development of the luxury car rental industry across the Arab region. The award highlights Trinity’s commitment to high-quality service, an exclusive fleet, and a focus on every detail that enhances the customer experience. “We are thrilled to be acknowledged by The Arabian Best of Best Awards that recognises the achievements of the best companies in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) across more than 20 industries. This…
OMODA&JAECOO, one of the world’s fastest-growing smart mobility and technology brands, has made a bold statement in the UAE by taking over Dubai International Airport — one of the busiest and most luxurious air hubs globally — with a premium branding and advertising campaign. The campaign marks a major milestone in the company’s rapid international expansion and underlines its strategic commitment to the UAE and wider Middle East region. In just two years, OMODA&JAECOO has entered 41 global markets and surpassed 540,000 units in cumulative sales, positioning itself as the fastest-growing new auto player in the world. The brand’s latest…