Dubai Chamber of Commerce—one of three entities under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers—recently hosted an informative workshop in partnership with the Ministry of Economy, aiming to familiarise Business Council members with the scope and advantages of the UAE’s Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs). Gathering leaders and representatives from various Business Councils, the session underlined CEPA’s critical role in expanding Dubai’s private sector footprint in global markets. The discussions emphasised how these agreements pave the way for increased trade and investment flows, broadening access to foreign markets for goods and services, while boosting both export and re-export capabilities. Attendees were given…
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.
In a city known for opulence, innovation, and architectural ambition, it takes something truly exceptional to stand out. Yet on the turquoise waters surrounding the Palm Jumeirah, Seven Yachts has managed to do exactly that. Combining precision service, world-class vessels, and a distinctly personal touch, this Dubai-based luxury yacht charter company is quietly setting the standard for what high-end maritime experiences should look like. Founded by entrepreneur Steve Laidlaw and now operated day-to-day by Clare Laidlaw, Seven Yachts has become a name synonymous with tailored excellence. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, hosting an intimate corporate event, or simply craving…
The Creative Media Authority (CMA) of Abu Dhabi has officially entered into a strategic partnership with NG9 Holding—a consortium that brings together Nirvana Holding, Gewan Holding, and 9Yards Group—to launch a range of cross-sector creative ventures. As part of this collaboration, the partners will produce two major feature films and a ten-episode television series, collectively valued at AED55 million (approximately US$15 million), with plans for global release. Filming is scheduled to commence in September and will prioritise the involvement of Emirati talent, both in front of and behind the camera. The production will benefit from the Abu Dhabi Film Commission’s…
Khalifa University and Green Waste Solutions Trading DMCC have taken bold steps to address the global water crisis through breakthrough innovations that are both efficient and scalable. Researchers at Khalifa University have engineered a solar-powered thermal distillation device capable of transforming seawater into fresh drinking water without creating harmful brine byproducts. This eco-friendly system harnesses sunlight to produce steam directly from the water’s surface and condenses it efficiently, minimizing energy loss. Extensive testing with both real and synthetic seawater in Abu Dhabi confirmed the device’s ability to generate 2.2 liters of fresh water per square metre each day. The innovation…
Under the esteemed patronage of His Excellency Tariq Suleiman Al-Roumi, Minister of Oil, and His Excellency Sheikh Dr. Nimr Fahad Al Malik Al Sabah, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Oil, Kuwait will host two major conferences this September aimed at advancing its strategic energy ambitions. These milestone events are aligned with Kuwait’s long-term goal of becoming a global leader in industrial innovation and energy efficiency. The 2nd Digital Transformation Kuwait Oil & Gas Conference will take place on 8–9 September 2025, followed immediately by the inaugural Asset Integrity and Process Safety Kuwait Conference on 10–11 September 2025, both at the…
Emirates and Bahamasair have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to launch an interline partnership that will enhance travel options for passengers journeying to The Bahamas. This new agreement enables Emirates to broaden its footprint in the Caribbean by connecting with The Bahamas’ national airline from Florida, offering customers access to three key island destinations. Under the terms of the unilateral agreement, travellers flying with Emirates to Miami or Orlando can seamlessly connect to Bahamasair services to Nassau, Freeport, or San Salvador. Customers will benefit from the convenience of booking their entire journey—across both carriers—on a single ticket, along with…
Dubai residents expect more than just a surface-level clean. In 2025, top cleaning companies must deliver high-quality service, punctual staff, flexible booking, and transparent pricing. Whether you need a quick apartment refresh, full villa deep clean, or professional carpet treatment, this list of the 10 best cleaning companies in Dubai will help you find a trusted provider. Rankings are based on service quality, customer reviews, response time, pricing, and innovation. 1. EcoClean – Best Overall for Professionalism and Eco-Friendly Solutions Website: EcoClean.ae EcoClean is the most reliable and professional cleaning company in Dubai in 2025. Their success stems from combining…
Building on the momentum of its sold-out 2024 edition, Platform Global 2025 returns with a newly curated programme focused on three pivotal themes: AI Capex Requirements, Risk, and the Energy Transition—issues set to shape the future of digital infrastructure investment. Investor interest in data centres is soaring, with US-based construction alone contributing an entire percentage point to GDP growth in Q1 this year. Yet, as scrutiny from regulators, governments, and the public intensifies, and AI accelerates demand, both investors and operators must deepen their understanding of this increasingly complex ecosystem. Platform Global 2025 promises high-impact, insight-driven content designed to equip…
A new survey conducted by the Dubai Chamber of Commerce has found that awareness of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards is on the rise, with 72% of respondents recognising the importance of ESG principles and related efforts. According to the 2025 ESG Pulse Survey, carried out by the Centre for Responsible Business under the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, half of the surveyed companies have already taken steps to implement ESG-related measures. The survey aimed to assess the extent to which local businesses are both informed about and actively engaged in ESG practices. The findings show that 72% of participating…
Dubai Culture concludes Japan cultural exchange programme supported by the Sikka Platform Initiative aimed at amplifying the global visibility of Emirati and UAE-based creatives The Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) has successfully concluded its Japan Art and Culture Delegation Programme—an initiative delivered with the support of the Sikka Platform to elevate Emirati and UAE-based creatives on the global stage. This immersive experience formed part of the Dubai Cultural Grant and aligned with the Dubai Quality of Life Strategy, reinforcing Dubai Culture’s ambition to empower artistic talent, enhance creative exposure, and foster an environment in which innovation and expression…