Author: 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.

New release empowers enterprises to run AI securely within their own data centres Cloudera, the only provider enabling AI to operate on data anywhere, has unveiled the latest version of Cloudera Data Services, bringing Private AI capabilities directly into on-premises environments. This development allows enterprises to harness secure, GPU-powered generative AI behind their own firewall. For many organisations, safeguarding sensitive data and intellectual property remains a major barrier to AI adoption. Research from Accenture reveals that 77% of businesses lack the foundational data and AI security measures necessary to protect models, pipelines, and cloud infrastructure. With this update, enterprises can…

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In an adrenaline-fueled spectacle that pushed the limits of endurance, strength, and sheer willpower, the Slap Fighting Championship (SFC) brought the heat to The Space Events and Sports in Dubai on 26 July 2025. Presented by none other than Eddie Hall, former World’s Strongest Man and global fitness icon, the event gathered top-tier athletes from around the world in front of a roaring crowd. The championship featured 32 fighters from six countries including the UK, India, Australia, Canada, Malaysia, and the UAE, facing off in 16 intense matchups. With knockouts, technical finishes, and crowd-shaking face-offs, the night delivered non-stop action…

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The university is enhancing its AI offering, research activities, and industry partnerships In anticipation of the wide-ranging impact of Ras Al Khaimah’s phenomenal growth across all sectors, including education, the American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) is aligning its academic and research offerings with the emirate’s ambitious trajectory. Ras Al Khaimah’s holistic development continues at an accelerated pace, driven by a series of tourism, hospitality, and real estate projects, including the construction of the Middle East’s first integrated gaming resort, and impressive milestones such as a 12%+ increase in tourism revenues and a 15% rise in Meetings, Incentives, Conferences,…

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Dubai Chambers recently organised a dedicated workshop aimed at highlighting its comprehensive suite of services designed to support the growth and competitiveness of the business community both locally and internationally. The online session attracted 180 representatives from across the private sector. Participants were introduced to the full range of programmes, initiatives, and services offered by the three chambers operating under the Dubai Chambers umbrella – Dubai Chamber of Commerce, Dubai International Chamber, and Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy. The workshop outlined efforts to drive the success and expansion of local companies, while creating new growth opportunities across diverse sectors in…

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Etihad Cargo marks two years of operations at Ezhou Huahu Airport with 275 freighter flights operated EHU has enabled the movement of over 43,000 tonnes of exports and growing weekly services The partnership supports high-tech and e-commerce trade between China and the Middle East Etihad Cargo, the cargo and logistics arm of Etihad Airways, is celebrating two successful years of operations at Ezhou Huahu Airport, marking a significant milestone in its strategic collaboration with SF Airlines. Since transitioning joint operations from Wuhan to Ezhou in August 2023, Etihad Airways is the first international airline to launch scheduled commercial freighter services…

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As battery innovation becomes a key differentiator in mobile technology, HONOR continues to lead the way, setting new standards for what users can expect from their devices, today and into the future. This time, HONOR Magic V5 sets a new benchmark in the foldable category, being an ultra-slim 8.8mm foldable phone equipped with industry’s largest batteryin a foldable — a 5820mAh powerhouse that offers remarkable endurance without sacrificing sleekness. Industry-leading HONOR Silicon-carbon Battery (15% Silicon-carbon) Building on its leadership in battery innovation, HONOR continues to push boundaries with its industry’s largest and latest generation of silicon-carbon battery. HONOR has been continuously…

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Bitget, the leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company, has officially released conversion payout feature that allows users to instantly convert crypto assets such as Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) into fiat and deposit the funds directly to their Visa or Mastercard. This rollout significantly reduces the time and complexity typically associated with off-ramping, offering a faster and more secure alternative to bank transfers and peer-to-peer transactions. Supporting over 140 fiat currencies including USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, and JPY, the feature provides worldwide access. Bitget’s card-based payout removes intermediary delays, enabling real-time deposits. It also eliminates third-party risks often associated…

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UAE endurance titan begins Guinness World Record bid Hugely popular 5k Music Run confirmed for Nov 15 Event forms part of the Dubai Fitness Challenge  The countdown is officially on. With 100 days to go until the return of the world’s fastest-growing triathlon event, the Dubai T100 (Nov 13–16), one of the UAE’s most respected endurance athletes, Ghani Souleymane, is kicking off a jaw-dropping challenge: 100 consecutive 100km triathlons in 100 days, ending with his 100th on the start line of the Dubai T100 on Sunday November 16. Starting tomorrow (Friday) at Kite Beach, the attempt is an official Guinness…

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A Fresh Season For Icons, Routines, And Reimagined Wardrobes Whether it’s back to school, back to office, or simply back to life, Levi’s® is here to mark the season with style, confidence, and iconic essentials. With the new season launch, Levi’s® celebrates the rhythm of routines with timeless denim, modern silhouettes, and elevated everyday staples. At the heart of this campaign is the Levi’s® 501®, a legendary fit that continues to define generations while evolving with them. The 501® Family continues to shine as the centerpiece of this collection, with updated styles like the 501® 90s and the new 501®…

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This August, Maison Mathis at voco Dubai The Palm presents an entire month of daily gastronomic adventures, offering a unique experience for every day of the week. From Monday’s rib feasts to Sunday’s traditional roasts, each day brings its own distinctive flavor and atmosphere. Seven days a week, guests can discover carefully crafted promotions that turn ordinary moments into memorable dining occasions. Whether it’s midweek indulgence with Pork It Up Wednesdays, Thursday’s social Bits & Bites, or the weekend’s celebratory brunch and roast, Maison Mathis ensures August is filled with exceptional culinary moments from start to finish. Set against the…

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