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Ideas Abu Dhabi, CGI bring together emerging leaders on tackling pressing global challenges of the 21st century

By
شمس سيف
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Ideas Abu Dhabi, CGI bring together emerging leaders on tackling pressing global challenges of the 21st century
Ideas Abu Dhabi, CGI bring together emerging leaders on tackling pressing global challenges of the 21st century
  • President Bill Clinton convened a session featuring UAE Rhodes Scholars and leaders from civil society and business community, on addressing shared challenges of today’s world.
  • The event marks the 10th anniversary of the Rhodes Scholarship for the UAE.
  • The event featured a group of UAE Rhodes Scholars and representatives from the Clinton Global Initiative, Rhodes Trust, and the Salama bint Hamdan Al Nahyan Foundation.
Ideas Abu Dhabi, a flagship forum organized by Tamkeen in association with the Aspen Institute, and the Clinton Global Initiative (CGI) convened a session of UAE Rhodes Scholars alongside leaders from civil society and business community. President Bill Clinton, 42nd President of the United States and Board Chair, Clinton Foundation, led the session which examined how emerging leaders can most effectively build partnerships and take action on urgent issues facing our world.
This milestone event, which marks the sixth edition of Ideas Abu Dhabi, celebrated the 10th anniversary of the Rhodes Scholarship for the UAE. Held in partnership with the Clinton Global Initiative, Rhodes Trust, and the Salama bint Hamdan Al Nahyan Foundation, the event convened 12 UAE Rhodes Scholars, including HH Majida Al Maktoum (UAE Rhodes Scholar 2019), Representative of Dubai Executive Council; Amal Al Gergawi (UAE Rhodes Scholar 2019), Researcher at NYU Abu Dhabi Marine Biology Lab; and Abdulla AlHashmi (UAE Rhodes Scholar 2020), Associate at McKinsey; in the presence of Professor Sir Rick Trainor, Warden of Rhodes House & CEO of Rhodes Trust, and Khulood Khaldoon Al Atiyat,  on behalf of the Salama bint Hamdan Al Nahyan Foundation.
Moderated by Rima Al Mokarrab, Co-Chair of Ideas Abu Dhabi and Chair of Tamkeen, the discussion explored the essential tools and strategies needed to prepare future leaders for navigating complex global challenges in a new era with vision and purpose.
Addressing UAE Rhodes Scholars, President Clinton said: “Leadership starts with how you see the world, and I personally believe this is the most interdependent age in human history. We need to figure out ways to make prosperity more broadly shared, to make opportunity more broadly shared, and to not categorize people in a way that diminishes their human potential.”
Rima Al Mokarrab said: “We are living in an era of extraordinary change. Advancements in technology, particularly artificial intelligence, are having a transformative impact on business, education, government, and beyond. At the same time, global challenges like climate change, public health, and growing inequality demand solutions that are bold, innovative, and collaborative.
“The Ideas Abu Dhabi forum enables us to come together to explore the pressing matters that define our time, creating space to spark collaboration, foster innovation, and turn dialogue into meaningful action. Against the backdrop of the UAE Rhodes 10-year anniversary, we are privileged to welcome President Bill Clinton – a distinguished Rhodes Scholar and visionary leader – who has dedicated his career to bridging divide. His valuable insights help us better understand the essential tools needed to navigate the complexities of the 21st century,” she added.
The Rhodes Scholarship is a prestigious international award that allows outstanding students to continue their studies at the UK’s University of Oxford. The UAE chapter produced scholars who achieved remarkable milestones, including HE Shamma Al Mazrui, the UAE’s first Emirati Rhodes Scholar, who is currently the UAE’s Minister of Community Empowerment and was previously appointed as the UAE Minister of State for Youth Affairs in February 2016 at the age of 22, making her the world’s youngest cabinet minister at the time of her appointment.
Professor Sir Rick Trainor spoke to the impact of the Rhodes Scholarship, particularly in shaping visionary leaders across the globe: “The Rhodes Trust selects exceptional individuals who come to study at the University of Oxford and join our vibrant global community.  We are delighted to celebrate 10 years of welcoming Scholars from the United Arab Emirates through our partnership with the Salama bint Hamdan Al Nahyan Foundation.  I look forward to the impact that the 2025 Scholars Elect, and those who will follow in future cohorts, will make as they pursue their own journeys of excellence and leadership.”
Angela Migally, Executive Director of the Salama bint Hamdan Al Nahyan Foundation which endows the scholarship, said: “Marking its tenth anniversary milestone, the Rhodes Scholarship continues to be an exceptional opportunity for talented students to further develop expertise at one of the world’s most renowned educational institutions. Being a part of such a community enables our scholars to contribute to a better future for our nation and the world. Ten years on, the UAE Rhodes scholarship demonstrates our nation’s commitment to the transformative impact of ethical leadership.”
Since its inception in 2017, Ideas Abu Dhabi has convened over one thousand global leaders to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges. The forum continues to position Abu Dhabi as a hub for collaboration and innovation, where diverse perspectives converge to prompt progress. Former speakers have included Bill Gates, Chair of the Gates Foundation; HE Dr. Anwar Gargash, UAE Presidential Diplomatic Advisor; Ray Dalio, Founder of Bridgewater Associates; former UK Prime Ministers Rt Hon David Cameron, Rt Hon Tony Blair and the Rt Hon Gordon Brown; and H.E. Sarah Al Amiri, UAE Minister of Education, among other notable figures.
This edition of Ideas Abu Dhabi builds on a partnership between Tamkeen and CGI to tackle urgent global challenges. At last year’s CGI Annual Meeting, timed to the U.N. General Assembly, Tamkeen and the International Affairs Office at the UAE Presidential Court launched an expanded global FoodTech Challenge to provide $2 million in funding to solutions that are addressing food and water scarcity amidst a changing climate.
For more information on Ideas Abu Dhabi, visit www.ideasabudhabi.com

Saudi Arabia Concludes its Participation at WEF AM25

By
شمس سيف
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Saudi Arabia Concludes its Participation at WEF AM25
Saudi Arabia Concludes its Participation at WEF AM25

A high-level delegation from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has concluded its participation in the 55th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland, culminating in an announcement that the Kingdom will host a regular high-level World Economic Forum (WEF) Global Meeting in Riyadh starting in Spring 2026.

The major announcement wrapped-up Saudi Arabia’s participation at the Annual Meeting, where a high-level delegation connected and collaborated with the international community to shape a prosperous future and deliver a clear message of hope and optimism for the region’s future. Led by His Highness Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah, Minister of Foreign Affairs, the delegation fostered and engaged in impactful dialogues, and launched a series of initiatives to address global challenges and capture the opportunities of a world on the cusp of a new era.

Throughout the Annual Meeting, held from 20-24 January, the Saudi delegation emphasized the importance of doubling-down on global collaboration to bring more cohesion and unity to a fragmented world, as well as the need to rewrite the global economic playbook, steer sustainable transitions and drive disruptive innovation to unlock human potential. Delegates participated in public and private panel sessions, numerous bilateral meetings, and conducted interviews with local, regional, and global media from Davos.

Alongside His Highness the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the delegation included His Excellency Dr. Majid A. Alkassabi, Minister of Commerce, His Excellency Ahmed A. Alkhateeb, Minister of Tourism, His Excellency Adel A. Aljubeir, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Member of the Council of Ministers, and Envoy for Climate Affairs, His Excellency Khalid A. Alfalih, Minister of Investment, His Excellency Mohammed A. Aljadaan, Minister of Finance, His Excellency Abdullah A. Alswaha, Minister of Communications and Information Technology, His Excellency Bandar I. Alkhorayef, Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, and His Excellency Faisal F. Alibrahim, Minister of Economy and Planning.

Some of the standout sessions that the delegates participated in, included: The Global Economic Outlook, The Future of Growth; Diplomacy Amid Disorder; Immersive Dialogue on Innovation Ecosystems; Emerging Economies amid Shocks; Safeguarding Nature, Securing People; The Way We Will Travel; State of Play: AI Governance; Learning from Services; Long View on MENA’s Growth; Saudi Arabia’s Economic Shifts; and Next-Gen Industrial Infrastructure.

The Ministry of Economy and Planning also hosted the first-ever Saudi House pavilion at the WEF AM, with the participation of a number of government entities including the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Transport and Logistics Services, Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Investment, Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu, General Authority for Civil Aviation, Royal Commission for AlUla, Saudi Tourism Authority, Research Development and Innovation Authority, Diriyah Company, and the Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (C4IR) in Saudi Arabia. Saudi House is a global platform that hosted a number of sessions with the participation of the Kingdom’s delegation, in addition to representatives of government entities and the local and global private sector, to discuss the latest themes affecting social and economic transformation locally and globally, and offer solutions to various global challenges.

Across the week, the Saudi House pavilion attracted more than 5,000 visits. Visitors to the pavilion were introduced to the Kingdom’s unprecedented social, economic and human transformation, as well as the high-impact investment opportunities that continue to emerge under Saudi Vision 2030.

WEF released a briefing paper with insights from HE Alkhateeb, on sustainable and inclusive growth in travel and tourism. The Ministry of Tourism also published an Investor White Paper on initiatives transforming the Kingdom’s tourism sector under Vision 2030.

The Global Cybersecurity Forum (GCF) and the World Economic Forum (WEF) signed an agreement to establish a new Centre for Cyber Economics (CCE) in Riyadh, aimed at increasing knowledge and understanding of the economic dimensions of Cybersecurity including impact, challenges and opportunities emerging in the rapidly evolving cyber landscape. The agreement was signed at the WEF Annual Meeting 2025 in Davos.

The CCE will focus on the economic dimension of cybersecurity, driving research, fostering cross-sector collaboration, and developing robust, evidence-based frameworks to enhance global cyber resilience, economic stability, and prosperity.

The Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu (RCJY) announced that Jubail Industrial City is the first in the region to join WEF’s initiative to decarbonize industrial clusters, launched in collaboration with Accenture and the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI).

The Research, Development, and Innovation Authority published a special report on the “Saudi Arabia’s Markets of Tomorrow Accelerator”. An initiative launched in collaboration with WEF’s Accelerator Network. The report highlights the initiative’s efforts to drive economic transformation through innovative, entrepreneurship-focused solutions, while outlining its vision for fostering the growth of key emerging markets in the Kingdom. It also explores how the initiative is tackling challenges and accelerating development to align with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.

At a Saudi House session, Salesforce announced a new regional headquarters in Riyadh and pledged to upskill 30,000 Saudi citizens by 2030. The firm also partnered with IBM to open an AI Innovation Center in the Kingdom.

IATF launched to utilise academia in advancing understanding of intra-African trade

By
شمس سيف
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The African Research and Innovation Hub @ Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) launched to utilise academia in advancing understanding of intra-African trade
The African Research and Innovation Hub @ Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) launched to utilise academia in advancing understanding of intra-African trade
  • University lecturers, students, and researchers affiliated with National Research Institutions invited to participate and showcase their publications and prototypes at IATF2025.

Afreximbank (www.Afreximbank.com), in collaboration with African Union Commission and AfCFTA Secretariat, is excited to launch its new initiative the “African Research and Innovation Hub @IATF”, during the 4th Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF2025). The key objective is to boost academic research output and increase collaboration between academia, industry, and policy makers across Africa in the bid to drive forward intra-African trade and industrialisation.

The platform aims to provide an opportunity for African, Caribbean and Diaspora lecturers, students, and researchers to showcase innovative research and prototypes that contribute towards intra-African trade and industrialisation. It also seeks to develop industry collaborations and exchange knowledge with leading professionals in the field during IATF2025 in Algiers, Algeria from September 4-10, 2025.

The African Research and Innovation Hub @IATF aims to promote and commercialise African research and innovation. It also acknowledges that there are many talented and creative Africans across Africa, the Caribbean and the Diaspora, who have brilliant ideas, concepts, publications and prototypes but lack the relevant support required to help them nurture their ideas and commercialise them.

The platform provides access to more comprehensive information, relevant data, and literature whilst exposing national researchers to potential investors or venture capitalists who could assist with commercialising their research output and prototypes.

A key objective of the Hub is to encourage innovation and entrepreneurship among lecturers and students by connecting them to trade exhibitions, start-up pitches, and networking opportunities with business leaders, potentially leading to new start-ups and increased academic-industry collaborations. It also provides opportunities for networking and potential collaboration with others in academia and practitioners across the continent, research institutions, industry, and policymakers.

Researchers, academics and university students are provided with access to information on emerging issues in the field of intra-African trade and can incorporate these into their research programs and academic curricula. Lastly, it enhances the capacity of lecturers and students in understanding and teaching the complexities of trade policies, trade standards, regional economic communities, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and industrialisation.

The hub aims to support the broader objectives of enhancing intra-African trade, fostering economic development, and building a connected, informed, and empowered next generation of African trade and investment leaders across all fields. This hub will allow students to exhibit their prototype inventions and published research papers on select topics, which are expected to adhere to world-class standards.

Mrs. Kanayo Awani, Executive Vice President Intra-African Trade and Export Development at Afreximbank said: “IATF2025 is an important moment for African research and innovation, bringing together the brightest minds from universities and research institutions to contribute towards promoting intra-African trade and industrialisation. The African Research and Innovation Hub @IATF will serve as a groundbreaking platform for African, Caribbean and Diaspora lecturers, students, and researchers to demonstrate their capabilities, and connect with industry leaders, investors, and policymakers. This is more than an opportunity to display research; it’s a unique moment to shape the future of intra-African trade and industrialisation to drive economic growth across the continent.”

Entries will be judged by a panel consisting of distinguished trade experts, scholars, and industry leaders from across Africa. The panel will evaluate submissions based on innovation, relevance to African trade and industrialisation, and the potential for practical application.

Candidates should demonstrate a number of key criteria – including academic excellence and a passion for advancing research on intra-African trade, industrialisation, leadership and initiative in projects related to trade, industrialisation and innovation, and regional economic integration; high-quality research outputs or innovative prototypes aligned with IATF’s themes and a commitment to furthering knowledge and collaboration by sharing insights from the event with their academic institutions.

University Lecturers, University Students, and Researchers Affiliated with National Research Institutions from Africa, the Diaspora including the Caribbean are invited to submit their applications directly through this email: ARIH@intrafricantradefair.com by 28 March 2025, 23:59 GMT.

You can find out the eligibility criteria, application requirements and other details on the IATF2025 website: https://apo-opa.co/3EeHRvj
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afreximbank.
Media contact:
media@intrafricantradefair.com

Spark Education Platform Embarks on its 2nd Acquisition in KSA and Acquires Majority Stake in Qimam El Hayat International School

By
شمس سيف
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Spark Education Platform Embarks on its 2nd Acquisition in KSA and Acquires Majority Stake in Qimam El Hayat International School
Spark Education Platform Embarks on its 2nd Acquisition in KSA and Acquires Majority Stake in Qimam El Hayat International School

Spark Education Platform (SEP), a fast-growing K-12 operator in KSA, owned by the Saudi Education Fund (SEF), which is managed by EFG Hermes, announced entering into definitive agreements to acquire a majority stake in Qimam El Hayat International School in Riyadh. This strategic move further solidifies SEP’s position in the Saudi education market, complementing its recently announced acquisition of 4 schools in the Kingdom. SEP will aim to unlock the school’s next chapter of growth by relocating the school to a new fit-for-purpose campus, increasing the school’s capacity by more than 50%.

Established in 2005 as a nursery serving 80 students, Qimam El Hayat has experienced remarkable growth over the past two decades. In 2006, the school expanded to offer international education for grades K-4, serving 1,000 students. By 2012, the school evolved into a full K-12 educational institution with a total capacity of 3,000 students, offering the

This acquisition aligns perfectly with SEP’s expansion strategy in the region. By adding Qimam El Hayat to its portfolio, SEP strengthens its offering of high-quality international education in KSA, leveraging its expansive experience in transforming and growing high-potential schools. The leadership team of Qimam El Hayat will be retained as part of the transaction to leverage the team’s expertise in driving the school’s future growth.

Ahmed Wahby, CEO of Spark Education Platform, commented on the acquisition: “We are thrilled to welcome Qimam El Hayat International School to the SEP family. This investment represents a significant milestone in our growth strategy and underscores our commitment to providing excellence in education across KSA. Qimam Al Hayat’s strong reputation and proven track record make it an ideal addition to our portfolio in this key segment.”

“This move, coupled with our recently announced acquisition of 4 additional schools in Riyadh, positions SEP as a major player in the Saudi education sector. SEP will capitalize on its experience, exceptional capabilities in educational innovation, cutting-edge technology, progressive academic approaches, comprehensive teacher professional development programs, and holistic student learning and character education to support Qimam Al Hayat’s continued growth and success. SEP is working very closely with Qimam Al Hayat’s leadership team on our ambitious plans to avail of two newly transformed school buildings, adding a capacity of 1,500 students in modern fit-for-purpose campuses. The announced transaction will grow SEP’s portfolio to 8 schools with over 10,000 enrolled students spreading across KSA, UAE, and Bahrain.” Wahby added.

Dr. Omar Sulaiman Alajaji, Chairman of Qimam El Hayat International School, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership: “Joining forces with SEP opens exciting new opportunities for our school community. SEP’s vision aligns perfectly with our commitment to providing quality education. We are confident that this partnership will enhance our ability to deliver exceptional educational experiences to our students and support our dedicated staff in their professional growth.”

In November 2024, EFG Hermes announced the launch of its USD 300 million Saudi Education Fund (SEF), aimed at establishing a world-class K-12 educational operator in KSA. This initiative was in response to the growing student population in private schools, projected to more than double as part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, highlighting the critical need for strong educational operators to meet this demand.

Arab Health’s landmark 50th edition to open tomorrow

By
شمس سيف
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Arab Health’s landmark 50th edition to open tomorrow
Arab Health’s landmark 50th edition to open tomorrow
  • The 2025 edition of Arab Health is set to welcome more than 3,800 exhibitors and over 60,000 visitors 
  • The international healthcare showcase will be held under the theme ‘Where the world of healthcare meets’ underscored by several groundbreaking new conferences highlighting innovation, the latest technology, sustainability and collaboration 
  • The 50th edition of Arab Health will run from 27 – 30 January 2025 at the Dubai World Trade Centre 

 

Arab Health, the Middle East’s largest and most important healthcare event and congress, will celebrate its landmark 50th edition when it returns to the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) tomorrow, from 27 – 30 January 2025. The milestone event, which will be held under the theme ‘Where the World of Healthcare Meets,” will bring together over 3,800 exhibitors and welcome more than 60,000 visitors, providing a unique platform for innovation, collaboration, and education in healthcare.

Building on the momentum of last year’s event, which saw record-breaking business deals exceeding AED9 billion, Arab Health 2025 is expected to set new benchmarks for success when it welcomes some of the biggest names in the industry, including global innovators such as GE Healthcare, Philips, Siemens Healthineers, Cleveland Clinic, and UCLA Healthcare, alongside regional leaders like PureHealth and Mubadala Health.

This year Arab Health will host more than 40 country pavilions, with exhibitors representing over 80 countries in total, covering the Middle East, the US, Europe, Africa, and Asia. The UAE will be represented by over 200 companies, showcasing the latest innovations across nine product sectors, ranging from medical equipment and devices to imaging and diagnostics, as well as wellness and prevention. 

Commenting on the landmark event, Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment, said: “As we mark the 50th edition of Arab Health, we can reflect on the pivotal role this event has played in driving the healthcare and medical sector in the region, through innovation and collaboration. Over the past five decades, Arab Health has served as a powerful platform for medical professionals to connect, share knowledge, and collaborate, and contributed to establishing Dubai as a leading business events destination, fostering an environment where industries and professionals thrive. 

“Arab Health now stands as a key pillar is the city’s business events calendar, joined by an ever-increasing number of international conferences and congresses throughout the year, attended by delegates from around the world, and supported by a comprehensive business events ecosystem and expertise here in the city. These events not only contribute to economic growth, but also reinforce Dubai’s commitment to providing opportunities for networking, professional development, and knowledge exchange, helping to shape the future of key sectors.”

Ross Williams, Exhibition Director for Informa Markets, reflected on the event’s incredible history and ongoing impact, said: “For 50 years, Arab Health has been at the forefront of the global healthcare industry, driving innovation, fostering collaboration, and shaping the future of care delivery. The event remains more relevant than ever, providing a vital platform where industry leaders can come together to address challenges and seize new opportunities in healthcare.

“This year, we have a range of new show features and conferences, the return of several popular events, and some big announcements to look forward to.”

The Eco-Sphere, a newly launched feature at Arab Health, will include The Healthcare ESG Forum, and the World of Wellness. The former will have a focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility in healthcare, reflecting Arab Health’s commitment to promoting sustainable practices, with programmes that highlight energy-efficient medical devices, waste reduction strategies, and the importance of a circular economy. 

The World of Wellness will take a deep dive into the future of longevity and reverse ageing, next-gen wellness wearables, mental health, nutrition and wellness strategies, and personalised health and genomics. 

The Future Health Summit, held at the iconic Museum of the Future, will bring together visionaries, policymakers, and innovators from around the globe to explore transformative ideas and initiatives shaping the healthcare sector. Attendees will hear from some of the brightest minds in the industry, including renowned speakers from the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI), Google, PwC Middle East, and Amazon Web Service.

For executives and decision-makers, the Executive Networking Lounge will offer an exclusive space to foster strategic collaborations and high-level discussions, while the Healthcare World Stage will serve as a platform for engaging conversations on emerging trends shaping the industry’s future.

A returning highlight of this year’s exhibition is the Transformation Zone, which will showcase disruptive technologies and groundbreaking innovations set to revolutionise healthcare delivery. Attendees will be able to engage in thought-provoking discussions at the Healthcare Transformation Talks and the popular Innov8 Start-up competition, with a $10,000 prize up for grabs.

Complementing these features, the Healthcare Business Forums and three newly launched non-Continuing Medical Education (CME) sessions, which include EmpowHer: Women in Healthcare, Digital Health & AI, and Healthcare Investment Summit, will explore key themes such as the growth of female entrepreneurship in healthcare, global investment trends, and teamwork and teambuilding in health organisational culture and strategy.

Medical professionals attending Arab Health 2025 will have access to 10 CME-accredited conferences held under the patronage of the Ministry of Health and Prevention and taking place at Conrad Dubai to accommodate demand. They include Total Radiology, Obs & Gyne, Quality Management & Patient Safety, General Surgery, Emergency Medicine & Critical Care, Infection Control, Decontamination & Sterilisation, Public Health, the Healthcare Leadership: Samson Global Leadership Academy and HAYAT – The Annual Organ Donation and Transplantation Congress 2025, which will be held as part of Arab Health for the first time. UCLA Health will also host an exclusive event, featuring Laker Legends Robert Horry and Michael Cooper, highlighting a collaboration that provides world-class care to elite athletes.

Cleveland Clinic collaborates with Informa to develop and implement medical education conferences in many healthcare specialties at Arab Health. This education helps healthcare professionals stay up to date and ensures they have the knowledge and competence to provide high-quality patient care.

James K. Stoller, MD, MS, Chief of Education at Cleveland Clinic, said: “Arab Health is a forum where healthcare professionals across the globe gather and learn together. Offering accredited continuing education in this setting helps educate participants according to the highest standards for quality, integrity and independence from commercial influence.”

An extended version of the Arab Health Village will return, providing visitors with a space to network in a more relaxed environment where food and beverages are available. The area will be open throughout show days and into the evening.

Arab Health 2025 is supported by various government entities, including the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention, the Government of Dubai, the Dubai Health Authority, the Department of Health, and the Dubai Healthcare City Authority.

Sponsors include PureHealth, American Hospital, Dr Sulaiman Al Habib, Emirates Health Services, M42, Ge Healthcare and Canon Medical, amongst others.

For more information or to register for the event, please visit www.arabhealthonline.com. 

Global Leaders Call for Action on AI and Regional Reforms at World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2025

By
Sahfy Sahfy
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Global Leaders Call for Action on AI and Regional Reforms at World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2025
Global Leaders Call for Action on AI and Regional Reforms at World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2025

President of the Democratic Republic of Congo Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo announced today at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2025 the creation of the world’s largest tropical forest reserve. The Kivu to Kinshasa Green Corridor Reserve will protect over 550,000 square kilometres of forest throughout the Congo River Basin.

This historic, unprecedented initiative will transform not only our natural landscapes, but also the livelihoods of millions of our citizens,” he said, adding that the initiative goes far beyond environmental preservation and includes economic development.

As he prepares to assume the ASEAN chairmanship, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim expressed optimism about the 10-nation union’s future and Malaysia’s role in it. “The spirit of collaboration and esprit de corps between [ASEAN] leaders is unique,” he said, pointing to the contributions that closer regional integration in green energy has made to Malaysia’s emergence as a high-tech manufacturing powerhouse.

Anwar noted that while the US remained the largest single investor in Malaysia, the nation’s “closeness, investment and trade with China” are growing. Stressing the importance of dialogue over conflict, he remarked: “We don’t go to war or threaten – we discuss, get a little angry, but focus on economic fundamentals and move on.”

In a special address, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez called for a reform of social media governance across the European Union to curb misinformation and cyber harassment. He urged for stronger enforcement of the Digital Services Act and expanded powers for the European Centre for Algorithmic Transparency. He emphasized that “the values of the European Union are not for sale” and called for increased funding for research into social media algorithms to ensure Europe’s brightest minds address this critical challenge.

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres issued a stark warning about two escalating global threats: the unchecked expansion of artificial intelligence and the climate crisis. These challenges, he warned, pose unprecedented risks to humanity and demand immediate, unified action from governments and the private sector.

On artificial intelligence, Guterres acknowledged its immense potential but cautioned against the risks of leaving AI ungoverned. He emphasized the need for international collaboration, pointing to the Global Digital Compact adopted at the United Nations as a roadmap for harnessing digital technology responsibly. “We must collaborate so that all countries and people benefit from AI’s promise and potential to support development and social and economic progress for all,” he said. He also called on the private sector not to backtrack on their climate commitments, and for governments to “keep their promise to produce new, economy-wide national climate action plans this year.”

Palestinian Authority Foreign Affairs Minister Varsen Aghabekian expressed cautious optimism following the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. ”Optimism is not a choice; it is a must,” adding that she hopes the ceasefire brings something more sustainable in the future. Addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Aghabekian underscored the need for immediate relief efforts and long-term planning. “We have to ensure that the aid is reaching the people,” she said.

Weeks after the sudden collapse of the Bashar al-Assad regime, Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Hasan AlShaibani outlined the new government’s plans. “We will not look to the past. We will look to the future. And we promise to our people that this misery will not be repeated,” adding that the government will respect the rights of women and reject the sectarian division that has long plagued the country.

He also urged the removal of remaining sanctions, assuring the world Syria would no longer be a source of threats. “Thousands are returning to Syria and they need to help rebuild the country. Now we open a new page…We need Syria to be a country of peace.”

In a conversation with CNN’s Fareed Zakaria, Iranian Vice-President for Strategic Affairs Javad Zarif expressed hope that a second Trump presidency would reconsider his withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JPOA or the Iran nuclear deal) in 2018, during his first administration, and would be “more serious, more focused, more realistic” about the cost of his withdrawal from the agreement.

“In terms of being able to dissuade Iran, [the withdrawal from JCPOA] has failed,” he said. “It has imposed heavy economic costs on the Iranian people. Of course, the Iranian government is suffering, but the Iranian people and the most vulnerable groups in Iran are suffering the most,” Zarif said.

Islamic Treasury Bonds Auction for January 2025 Attracts Bids Worth AED 6.91 Billion

By
Sahfy Sahfy
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Islamic Treasury Bonds Auction for January 2025 Attracts Bids Worth AED 6.91 Billion
Islamic Treasury Bonds Auction for January 2025 Attracts Bids Worth AED 6.91 Billion

The Ministry of Finance (MoF) as the issuer, in collaboration with the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) as the issuing and paying agent, announced the results of the Islamic Treasury Sukuk (T-Sukuk) auction denominated in UAE dirhams, amounting to AED 1.1 billion. This issuance is part of the Islamic T-Sukuk issuance programme for the first quarter of 2025 as published on the Ministry’s website.

The auction witnessed a strong demand from the eight primary dealers for both tranches maturing in May 2027 and September 2029, of the Islamic T-Sukuk, with bids received worth AED 6.91 billion and an oversubscription by 6.3 times. The success is reflected in the attractive market driven prices, with a Yield to Maturity (YTM) of 4.32% for the tranche maturing in May 2027 and 4.43% for the tranche maturing on September 2029, representing a spread of 7 and10 bps above US Treasuries with similar maturities at the time of the auction.

The Islamic T-Sukuk issuance programme will contribute to building the UAE dirham denominated yield curve, providing safe investment alternatives for investors, strengthening the local debt capital market, developing the investment environment, as well as supporting sustainable economic growth.

For more information, please visit https://mof.gov.ae/federal-debt-management-office/.

90% of GCC CEOs confident of revenue growth in 2025: PwC’s 28th Annual CEO Survey

By
شمس سيف
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90% of GCC CEOs confident of revenue growth in 2025: PwC's 28th Annual CEO Survey
90% of GCC CEOs confident of revenue growth in 2025: PwC's 28th Annual CEO Survey
  • Confidence – 90% of GCC CEOs are confident about growth in company revenue in 2025
  • Increasing headcount, concerns over skills shortages – 61% of regional CEOs expect to increase headcount within 12 months, although 34% of GCC CEOs cited skills shortages as a major concern
  • Reinvention – 60% of regional CEOs say their businesses will not be viable in 10 years or less without adapting
  • Embracing AI – 70% of GCC CEOs believe GenAI will increase profitability within 12 months
  • On climate – 79% of regional CEOs have initiated climate friendly investments in the last five years
  • Fierce competition as industries converge – 72% of regional CEOs expect to do a deal outside of their industry or sector in the next three years
  • Complex risk environment – GCC CEOs cited cyber security as their main concern, closely followed by geopolitical risk, macroeconomic volatility, lower availability of workers with key skills and technological disruption
CEOs in the Middle East are among the most confident globally about revenue growth in 2025, as revealed in PwC’s 28th Annual CEO Survey. Yet the survey also finds that regional chief executives are acutely aware of the huge wave of disruptive change, primarily driven by AI, climate challenges and an intensifying competition over new domains of growth as industry lines blur. In summary, the survey reveals that our region’s CEOs are striking a difficult balance – capturing the significant market opportunities today while also reinventing their businesses for tomorrow.
PwC’s annual survey of CEOs globally and across the Middle East reflects the collective voice of business leaders – offering valuable insights into the opportunities they see, the challenges they face and the path forward. This year the survey captured more Middle East responses than ever before, with almost 300 chief executives sharing their views.
The regional findings reveal strong confidence amongst CEOs in their companies’ revenue growth, with those in the GCC particularly optimistic about revenue growth in 2025 (at 90%). 61% of GCC CEOs also expect to increase headcount this year, compared to just 42% of their global peers, and up from 55% in 2024. However, one third (34%) cited skills shortages as a major concern.
Commenting on the findings, Hani Ashkar, PwC Middle East Senior Partner, said: “The Middle East’s optimism reflects a remarkable ability to adapt and innovate in the face of global challenges. CEOs in the region are adopting bold strategies to drive growth and competitiveness, advance sustainability and integrate AI into their businesses. These efforts are reinforcing the region’s role as a dynamic hub for business and investment, ensuring long-term value creation for stakeholders and communities alike.”
For our CEOs the urgency to reinvent is clear. A striking 60% of regional CEOs now believe their businesses will not survive ‘within the next 10 years or less’ without significant adaptation – a notable increase from last year, when less than half expressed similar concerns.
CEOs in the Middle East recognise that traditional models of business are increasingly unsustainable in the face of transformative catalytic shifts, primarily driven by AI, the climate crisis and industry convergence. A notable 88% of GCC CEOs have adopted GenAI in the last 12 months, exceeding global averages and reflecting greater confidence in the technology’s potential. 70% of GCC CEOs also believe that GenAI will increase profitability in 2025. On climate, 79% of regional CEOs have initiated climate-friendly investments in the last five years. Also CEOs recognise that there is fierce competition over new domains of growth as industry lines blur. This is highlighted by 43% of regional CEOs indicating that they are already competing in new sectors or industries, 53% have targeted a new customer base within the last five years and 72% expect to do a deal outside of their industry or sector in the next three years.
Stephen Anderson, Partner, Middle East Strategy Leader, PwC Middle East commented: “Middle East CEOs are more confident than their global peers, capturing the significant market opportunities in our region, while also proactively reinventing their businesses. Our confident CEOs are embracing AI, adapting their businesses for the opportunities and threats associated with climate change and fiercely competing outside of their industry to capture new value domains.”
Alongside growth and reinvention, regional CEOs remain vigilant over the increasing threat landscape. GCC CEOs cited cyber security as their main concern, closely followed by geopolitical risk, macroeconomic volatility and technological disruption.
Country insights
UAE: Confident and increasingly active on the global stage
  • 90% of CEOs are confident of revenue growth in 2025.
  • 60% of CEOs expect to increase headcount within 12 months
  • Global CEOs rank the UAE as the seventh most attractive destination for investment, further solidifying its position as a key player in the global economy.
  • 93% of CEOs have adopted AI in the last 12 months.
  • 63% of UAE CEOs plan to make at least one acquisition over the next three years.
KSA: A vision for sustained growth
  • 98% of CEOs are confident of revenue growth in 2025.
  • 70% of CEOs expect to increase headcount within 12 months
  • 81% of CEOs have adopted AI in the last 12 months.
  • 64% of CEOs plan to make at least one acquisition over the next three years
Qatar: A focus on emerging opportunities
  • 87% of CEOs are confident of revenue growth in 2025.
  • 53% of CEOs expect to increase headcount within 12 months.
  • 90% of CEOs have adopted AI in the last 12 months.
  • 33% of CEOs have begun competing in new industries or sectors in the last five years.

Oman: Positive economic growth and climate action

  • 87% of CEOs are confident of revenue growth in 2025.
  • 69% of CEOs expect to increase headcount within 12 months.
  • 87% of CEOs have adopted AI in the last 12 months.
  • 36% of CEOs have begun competing in new industries or sectors in the last five years.

Egypt: A strong recovery and an optimistic outlook

  • 88% of CEOs are confident of revenue growth in 2025.
  • 69% of CEOs expect to increase headcount within 12 months.
  • 78% of CEOs have adopted AI in the last 12 months.
  • 56% of CEOs have begun competing in new industries or sectors in the last five years.

Jordan: Economic resilience amid regional challenges

  • 75% of CEOs are confident of revenue growth in 2025.
  • 50% of CEOs expect to increase headcount within 12 months.
  • 82% of CEOs have adopted AI in the last 12 months.
  • 54% of CEOs have begun competing in new industries or sectors in the last five years

CEOs in the Middle East cite cyber risks, geopolitical conflict, tech disruption and a shortage of skilled workers among their main concerns for 2025.

ADNOC Distribution Partners with Emerge to Power Abu Dhabi Stations with Solar Energy, Advancing Sustainability and Operational Efficiency

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Sahfy Sahfy
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ADNOC Distribution Partners with Emerge to Power Abu Dhabi Stations with Solar Energy, Advancing Sustainability and Operational Efficiency
ADNOC Distribution Partners with Emerge to Power Abu Dhabi Stations with Solar Energy, Advancing Sustainability and Operational Efficiency

ADNOC Distribution (ISIN: AEA006101017) (Symbol: ADNOCDIST), the UAE’s largest mobility and convenience retailer, announced today the launch of the second phase of its service station solarization program in collaboration with Emerge, a joint venture between Masdar and the EDF Group.

Under the program, Emerge will finance, design, install and maintain solar photovoltaic (PV) panels at service stations across ADNOC Distribution’s UAE network. This initiative supports the Company’s sustainability goals by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and reliance on non-renewable energy, while also enhancing operational efficiency by lowering energy costs and optimizing the energy mix at service stations, in line with its aim to reduce operational carbon intensity by 25% by 2030.

The solarization program is directly linked to ADNOC Distribution’s pioneering adoption of sustainable financing, reinforcing the Company’s commitment to mainstreaming sustainability across the business. In January 2023, ADNOC Distribution became the first UAE fuel and convenience retailer to convert an existing $1.5 billion term loan into a sustainability-linked one. This loan ties financial incentives and penalties to achieving sustainability goals, including solarization, embedding financial accountability into ADNOC Distribution’s sustainability commitments.

Eng. Bader Saeed Al Lamki, CEO of ADNOC Distribution, said: “We are pleased to partner with Emerge to bring solar energy to our Abu Dhabi service stations, building on the successful solarization of our Dubai network last year. Incorporating solar power into our energy mix is just one facet of our strong commitment to sustainability, upholding broader ADNOC Group and UAE net-zero goals. We are proud of these efforts as we strive to build  a better future for customers, shareholders, and the communities we serve.”

Michel Abi Saab, General Manager of Emerge, said: “After the successful completion of the first service station solarization phase, we are proud to extend our partnership with ADNOC Distribution and launch the second phase, which will cover more than 100 stations under the scheme. At Emerge, we’re committed to supporting businesses in the UAE to reduce carbon emissions and achieve their sustainability goals.”

In the first phase of the project, Emerge installed solar panels at 28 ADNOC Distribution service stations in Dubai, representing all feasible locations within the Dubai network where solar panels could be installed. As of the end of 2024, the partnership had generated over 6,300 MWh of electricity, equivalent to a reduction of CO₂ emissions by more than 2,900 tonnes. 

During Phase 2, ADNOC Distribution and Emerge will install solar panels at more than 100 service stations across Abu Dhabi. The solar panels are expected to generate nearly 30,000 MWh of renewable energy per year, enough to power nearly one billion smartphones and avoid the equivalent of over 13,000 tonnes of carbon emissions annually. This reduction is equivalent to the carbon absorbed by nearly 250,000 tree seedlings growing for 10 years.

Solar energy deployment is just one of many decarbonization initiatives by ADNOC Distribution, which include AI-enabled tools for emissions and energy savings, biofuels to power fleet vehicles and other sustainability programs.

ADNOC Distribution strengthened its position as an ESG leader in the mobility and convenience retail sector in 2024, and is now ranked within the top quartile of Bloomberg, S&P Global, London Stock Exchange and FTSE Russell ratings. In October 2024, ADNOC Distribution was awarded the Dubai Chamber of Commerce Centre for Responsible Business’ ESG Label, the first fuel retailer in the Middle East to receive this distinction.

Emerge has developed more than 200MWp of  solar capacity across diverse commercial and industrial sectors in just three years since its establishment. The company offers clients full turnkey solutions through solar power agreements at no up-front cost to the client. Recognized with multiple awards, it is committed to creating a greener, sustainable future by helping businesses meet their sustainability goals.

LEES 2025: Nabors to Add Third Drilling Rig to Waha Field in Libya

By
شمس سيف
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LEES 2025: Nabors to Add Third Drilling Rig to Waha Field in Libya
LEES 2025: Nabors to Add Third Drilling Rig to Waha Field in Libya

Global oil and gas drilling contractor Nabors has announced it will add a third drilling rig to the Waha oil field in Libya’s Sirte Basin. Expected to start operation in the coming weeks, the rig adds to the company’s current fleet of two rigs operating on the field.

The announcement was made by Nabors Vice President of Eastern Hemisphere Operations Tyson Seeliger during a U.S.-Libya Roundtable – Advancing Collaboration Between Libya and the U.S. in Energy Sector – at this year’s Libya Energy & Economic Summit 2025.

“We hope to start putting boots on the ground,” Seeliger stated, adding, “Right now, we have two drilling rigs in Waha, with the third about to start and we look forward to what’s coming in the future.”

Meanwhile, the Chargé d’Affaires of the U.S. Embassy of Libya Jeremy Berndt announced that the U.S. is coming closer to opening an embassy in Tripoli. The U.S. embassy to Libya – based in Tunis, Tunisia – has been working with the U.S. State Department and government, as well as the Libyan government, to evaluate potential properties in Libya’s capital.

“We’ve been working steadily to increase our visits and I’m really proud of the work our team has done and the work of the State Department and U.S. government,” Berndt stated, adding, “We took the important step last month to sign leases for properties to open a new embassy and in the coming months we hope our work plan will allow us to become fully operational in Libya.”

Meanwhile, Executive Director of the U.S.-Libya Business Association Lydia Jabs, emphasized the U.S’ support for Libya, highlighting Libya’s role as a key partner in driving energy growth in the region and across the globe.

“I expect the next administration will see Libya as a key partner in global energy security and we hope to see continued support with our partners in the country,” Jabs stated.

Vice President of the American Chamber of Commerce in Libya Ahmed Al-Ghazali encouraged U.S. companies to enter the country and partner with local companies. He emphasized the transfer of technology and knowledge as a requisite for Libyan companies to drive socioeconomic development, driven by a robust energy sector.

Through its partnership with TotalEnergies, energy supermajor ConocoPhillips has been operating in Libya for decades and boasts a significant portfolio of energy projects in the country. As such, ConocoPhillips President for Libya Dag Sanner highlighted that the company is currently in discussions with the Libya’s parastatal National Oil Corporation (NOC) to ensure further investments in the oil and gas sector in the coming years.

Last year, the energy majors – partners in the Waha oil field – requested extending the validity of contracts signed with the NOC to 2046 while increasing their profit margin in the field from 6.5% to 13%.

The roundtable also featured the participation of global technology company SLB, which announced its ambition to increase oil production in the country, contributing to the NOC’s stated goal of increasing output to 2 million barrels of oil per day by 2027.

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