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WAM Saudi to bring deep knowledge and broad perspectives from international experts across diverse industrial sectors

By
شمس سيف
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Inaugural World Advanced Manufacturing & Logistics Summit (WAM) Saudi to bring deep knowledge and broad perspectives from international experts across diverse industrial sectors

The World Advanced Manufacturing & Logistics Summit (WAM), the premier gathering for advanced manufacturing and logistics in the Middle East, will take place at the Fairmont Hotel in Riyadh on 11 November 2024. Organised by KAOUN International, WAM Saudi Summit will take place in strategic partnership with MODON (the Saudi Authority for Industrial Cities and Technology Zones).

The WAM Saudi Summit provides Saudi policymakers, investors, and industry leaders with practical tools to navigate the challenges, threats, and opportunities central to Vision 2030’s industrial goals. It will also act as a preview of next November’s WAM Saudi Expo, the most advanced and dynamic presentation of disruptive tech, and chance to gain insight from world-leading industry experts and build new partnerships that cross borders.

Saudi Arabia is rapidly emerging as a global leader in advanced manufacturing and logistics, driven by its ambitious Vision 2030 strategic initiative. The nation already hosts 40 industrial cities, and 59 new logistics zones.

Trixie LohMirmand, CEO of KAOUN International, the organiser of the WAM Saudi Summit, commented: “At the World Advanced Manufacturing & Logistics Summit (WAM) we are setting the stage for a transformative dialogue that unites global industry leaders and Saudi stakeholders to drive advanced manufacturing and logistics forward in the Kingdom. We are excited to facilitate an exchange of ideas, and foster the talent development, capacity building, knowledge exchange, and innovation that will support Saudi Arabia’s ambitions as a global hub of technological and economic progress.”

One of the key forces driving Saudi Arabia’s industrial transformation, and creating an attractive environment for inward investment and innovation, is the Saudi Authority for Industrial Cities and Technology Zones (MODON). Reflecting the importance of the WAM Saudi Summit in achieving the nation’s goals, MODON will be the Strategic Partner for the preview edition.

Ali Alomeir, VP of Business Development at MODON explained: “MODON’s strategic partnership with the World Advanced Manufacturing & Logistics Summit (WAM) underscores our dedication to fostering an ecosystem of innovation and investment aligned with Saudi Vision 2030. This summit is a pivotal opportunity for industry leaders to collaborate, share knowledge, and build partnerships that will shape Saudi Arabia’s industrial future. We are proud to support Saudi Arabia’s emergence as a leader in sustainable and tech-driven manufacturing.”

Under the theme “Access to the future of manufacturing”, the WAM Saudi Summit will feature speakers from global leaders in advanced manufacturing and logistics – many speaking in Saudi for the first time.

In Blueprints of 2030, experts including Faisal Sultan, Vice President and Managing Director at Lucid Motors, USA and Jens Greiner, Enterprise Technologist at Amazon Web Services will address the challenge of building tech-enabled, sustainable factories equipped to handle resource constraints and rising global competition, presenting opportunities for enhanced productivity through digital integration.

The Industrial Alchemy session will focus on the transformative potential of Industry 4.0, exploring advanced technologies like AI, robotics, and IoT that are redefining manufacturing, while speakers tackle threats such as cybersecurity risks and operational complexities in implementing these innovations.

The Transforming Industrial Finance roundtable will confront capital access barriers, offering structured investment solutions to fund large-scale projects with managed risk. Demi Stefanova, Interim CEO of Quickstep Holdings, Australia will discuss the main financial challenges and opportunities in aerospace manufacturing, and Halil Bedevi, Head of Advanced Manufacturing Sectors at Santander, UK will explore how global manufacturing potential can be unlocked through advanced financial solutions.

In Hyperports & Megahubs, meanwhile logistics experts including Sung Moon, Director of Investment Promotion Division at Busan Jinhae Free Economic Zone, South Korea will discuss the infrastructure demands of a rapidly evolving supply chain landscape, addressing issues like demand fluctuations and security vulnerabilities, while presenting scalable logistics models to solidify Saudi Arabia’s position as a global logistics hub. Each session provides clear strategies for attendees to overcome obstacles, leverage new growth avenues, and secure their role in the Kingdom’s industrial future.

“This summit is a pivotal moment for the oil and gas sector to redefine its future. The convergence of advanced technologies, like AI and machine learning, offers unprecedented opportunities to elevate pipeline integrity, boost operational efficiency, and achieve lasting sustainability. I’m excited to join this platform to drive forward-thinking strategies that will shape our industry’s next chapter”, commented Ahmed Farouk, General Manager – Centre of Excellence, at the Egyptian Natural Gas Company GASCO.

Vanessa Xu, Executive Chairwoman and CIO of VS Partners, Hong Kong SAR added: “This summit is a vital gathering for aligning capital and innovation to drive the future of industrialisation. I’m honoured to share insights on navigating emerging markets and unlocking strategic industrial finance opportunities.”

The WAM Saudi Summit is sponsored by multinational software house and systems integrator Comarch, Singapore-based sustainable tech solutions provider Hiverlab, and eco-friendly transportation technology pioneer Vego.

The WAM Saudi Summit builds on the success of KAOUN’s existing portfolio of shows, including the Kingdom’s largest food show, the Saudi Food Show, and is affiliated with GITEX GLOBAL, the largest tech and AI events across the world – as well as the flourishing Saudi Food Manufacturing show – and strengthens the strategic partnership built with MODON.

The WAM Saudi Summit will be followed by the WAM Saudi Expo, which will take place from 24 – 26 November 2025 at the Riyadh Front Convention & Exhibition Centre.

For more information on both events, please visit: https://www.wamsaudi.com/

150 Global Visionaries to Explore Transformative Futures at Dubai Future Forum 2024

By
شمس سيف
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150 Global Visionaries to Explore Transformative Futures at Dubai Future Forum 2024

The third edition of the Dubai Future Forum, hosted by Dubai Future Foundation on 19-20 November at the Museum of the Future, will gather 150 prominent speakers, including government officials, CEOs, academics, policymakers, thought leaders, and futurists from the UAE and around the globe.

This global event, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Dubai Future Foundation, will feature around 70 sessions, including panel discussions, keynote addresses, and workshops. Over 2,500 experts from around 100 countries are expected to attend, alongside representatives from 100 international organisations specialising in future design.

The list of the speakers includes Sarah Sabry, the first Arab and African astronaut; Dr Makoto Suzuki from Okinawa Institute of Longevity; Laila Abdullatif from Emirates Nature–WWF; Amy Webb from Future Today Institute; His Excellency Omran Sharaf, Assistant Foreign Minister of Advanced Sciences and Technology, MoTF, UAE; and Jay Ogilvy, co-founder of Global Business Network, among others.

Prof. Pattie Maes (MIT), commenting on her participation, stated, “Dubai Future Forum is taking place at a pivotal moment as we stand ready to maximise the benefits of future technology and AI, which promise significant opportunities for global development and societal benefit.”

Bo Viktor Nylund (UNICEF Innocenti) posed a thought-provoking question, “What will the world look like in 2050 for future generations? This is directly depending on us. Through collective action, we can design a better future for children, centring the future of generations to come in all strategic plans and initiatives.”

Anne Beate Hovind (Library of the Future) highlighted the role of cultural exchange, saying, “The Forum brings together influential figures to share ideas, strengthening global cultural connections and shared values.”

Glenn Gainor (Amazon Studios) spoke on storytelling’s transformative potential, noting, “With advancing technology, more people can share their stories widely, shaping perceptions, inspiring change, and bridging cultures and generations.”

Paul Saffo, a renowned futurist and adjunct professor at Stanford, highlighted the significance of the event, stating, “The Dubai Future Forum is an essential annual gathering for exploring the latest research, studies, and methodologies in foresight. It offers an unparalleled platform to address major global challenges and is a must-attend for foresight specialists aiming to amplify their impact.”

Dr Jordan Nguyen, inventor, author, speaker, and biomedical engineer at Psykinetic, expressed his excitement for the event, stating, “I look forward to attending the Dubai Future Forum and connecting with influential leaders from around the world to exchange ideas that can benefit humanity. This gathering allows us to collectively capitalise on our ever-evolving tools in science and technology to focus on a better future—for our people, our planet, and life on Earth.”

Prof. Angela Maas, a cardiologist specialised in heart disease in women at Radboud University Medical Center in Nijmegen, Netherlands, emphasised the importance of inclusive healthcare, noting, “Participating in the Dubai Future Forum will provide an invaluable opportunity to discuss the importance of gender-sensitive cardiology, which prioritises cardiovascular health for women, ultimately improving healthcare quality for society as a whole.”

5 Key Themes

Speakers at the Dubai Future Forum will address five key themes: Futuring Nature, which focuses on our deep connection to nature and calls for urgent environmental actions; Transforming Humanity, exploring the power to radically reshape ways of life by moving beyond the legacy models; Optimising Health, highlighting transformations in healthcare sector; Empowering Generations, offering solutions to humanity’s most complex and universal needs; and Foresight Insights, providing a comprehensive overview of the foresight field, and emphasising the need for innovative tools to navigate our changing world.

Future-Focused Sectors

Sessions and activities at this forum will delve into future trends in key sectors, including space, sustainability, environment, energy, food, health, education, technology, AI, digital economy, government operations, and more.

100 Innovative Projects

The Forum will also feature a showcase of the top 100 pilot projects and innovative solutions under the “Dubai Future Solutions – Prototypes for Humanity” initiative. This programme, held under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, is a collaboration between the Dubai Future Foundation and the Hussain Sajwani – DAMAC Foundation, the strategic partner recently pledged AED 100 million to support innovation and technology.

Activations

This year’s Forum edition will include new activations before, during, and after the main event to foster connections through interactive, cultural, and artistic gatherings, throughout Dubai. These activities are designed to empower participants with the knowledge and skills needed to anticipate emerging trends, share insights on future planning methodologies, scenario development, and innovative problem-solving approaches.

For more information about the Dubai Future Forum 2024, please visit: https://www.dubaifuture.ae/dubai-future-forum-2024

Dubai’s Office Market Sees Unprecedented Uptake and Rental Surge Across Top Business Areas in Q3 2024

By
شمس سيف
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Dubai’s Office Market Sees Unprecedented Uptake and Rental Surge Across Top Business Areas in Q3 2024

Dubai’s commercial office market is reaching new heights, with unprecedented demand driving occupancy rates and rental growth across prime business districts, as detailed in Savills Q3 2024 Dubai Office Market report. Driven by a substantial rise in new business registrations and expansion activities by existing firms, including those in finance and technology sectors, the city’s real estate landscape is more competitive than ever, positioning Dubai as a top global business destination.

According to the report, over 24,000 new businesses were registered in the first half of 2024, marking a 5% year-on-year growth. This surge underscores the strong economic momentum fuelled by the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33) and highlights the emirate’s reputation as a hub for international trade and innovation. Key business areas such as DIFC, Downtown, and Business Bay now boast occupancy rates between 95% and 97% reflecting robust demand for high quality office spaces. 

Average Grade A rental values surged by 25% year-on-year, with specific locations like Business Bay and Downtown experiencing jumps of 44% and 36%, respectively. DIFC’s premier properties lead the market, reporting rent increases as high as 25% while new developments such as DIFC Square and Immersive Tower are set to add over 10 million square feet of premium office space by 2028. 

“Dubai’s office market growth underscores its appeal as a global business hub, bolstered by ease of setup, favourable tax conditions, and a strategic location,” said Toby Hall, Head of Commercial Agency at Savills Middle East. “Businesses are establishing or expanding their presence here, recognising the value of high-quality office spaces that support talent attraction and growth. This demand signals further market evolution in the years ahead.”

Paula Walshe, Director of Transactional Services at Savills Middle East, added, “The unprecedented rental increases and high occupancy rates demonstrate Dubai’s standing as a premier destination for global business expansion. We’re seeing strong interest from international firms, especially in finance and technology, prioritising flexible office spaces to meet their ambitious growth targets and align with Dubai’s strategic vision.”

In addition, the rise of hybrid working models has led to a growing demand for flexible workspaces, with companies opting for open-plan layouts and co-working solutions like those offered by Executive Centre and Cloud Spaces. These spaces are particularly attractive for startups and new entrants seeking flexible lease terms and a rapid operational setup. 

Demand for office space is concentrated in areas with prime offerings, yet more affordable options are also experiencing significant rental increases, as seen in Dubai Science Park and Dubai Investments Park, which recorded a 37% year-on-year rise. Expo City is emerging as a competitive option, offering high-quality facilities with strong transport links at a lower price point than the central business districts. 

The report projects that this demand will continue through the year as more businesses set up in Dubai to take advantage of its strategic location, supportive business environment, and high-quality infrastructure. 

For further insights and detailed analysis, download the full Q3 2024 Dubai Office Market report here.

How Trump could seek to influence The Fed

By
شمس سيف
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How Trump could seek to influence The Fed

The Fed is expected to cut interest rates again Thursday – this time by 25 basis points – amid a moderating inflation rate and a softening labor market.

But it’s the return of Donald Trump to the White House and concerns that he might seek significant influence over the central banks’ policy decisions that will be the main focus, warns the CEO of one of the world’s largest independent financial advisory and asset management organizations.

Nigel Green of deVere Group is speaking ahead of Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s end of meeting speech Thursday, at which markets have fully priced-in another rate cut.

He says: “There are fears that Trump is likely to reignite his campaign to influence the Federal Reserve’s decisions moving forward.

“He frequently criticized the Fed, particularly under Jerome Powell’s chairmanship, for not lowering interest rates more aggressively. In 2018 and 2019, he repeatedly voiced dissatisfaction, claiming that higher rates were a drag on the US economy and put the country at a competitive disadvantage in international markets.

“He even went as far as suggesting negative interest rates—a stance almost unheard of in the US.

“With inflation cooling but still elevated, Trump may argue that lower rates are necessary to fuel economic growth, particularly in the lead-up to the 2026 midterms.”

The now President-Elect Trump appointed four of the seven current Fed Board governors during his previous term, including the controversial re-nomination of Jerome Powell.

However, he also openly suggested firing Powell—a move he legally couldn’t enforce but used as leverage to influence Fed decisions. His strong preference for low-interest-rate advocates likely influenced his appointments, prioritizing growth and employment over strict inflation control.

“Should Powell remain at the Fed, Trump may again publicly challenge his decisions, possibly nominating governors who share his economic philosophy, with an eye on reducing Fed autonomy. He could also push for replacements more sympathetic to his economic policies if any positions open up,” notes the deVere Group CEO.

During his first term, Trump was concerned with the strength of the dollar, often calling for a weaker dollar to boost US exports. Though he didn’t manage to directly influence dollar policy, he openly pressured the Fed to cut rates, which would generally have a devaluing effect on the currency.

With trade at the forefront of his agenda, “Trump might pursue a weaker dollar to maintain a competitive edge, potentially through tactics that pressure the Fed into actions benefiting US trade,’ comments Nigel Green. “A lower dollar could boost American manufacturing and exports, while also helping to offset tariff impacts.”

His previous administration frequently engaged in discussions about limiting the Fed’s autonomy. Though he faced legal and political barriers, Trump’s vocal challenges to the Fed set a precedent for public criticism of an institution that traditionally operated independently from the executive branch.

“His return to the White House could lead to further efforts to limit Fed independence or increase scrutiny, particularly if inflation resurges or if monetary policy tightens. He may call for reforms that align Fed decisions more closely with the White House’s economic agenda, positioning this as an alignment of the Fed with national interests,” affirms the deVere CEO.

He concludes: “Trump’s approach to the Fed will likely mix familiar pressures for lower rates and personnel shifts, with an added emphasis on trade and dollar competitiveness.

“Although the Fed’s legal independence remains a limiting factor, Trump’s history of public statements and actions suggests he could be relentless in trying to sway monetary policy.”

AHRC Congratulates President-Elect Trump, Time to Reconcile, Work Together and Move Forward.

By
شمس سيف
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AHRC Congratulates President-Elect Trump, Time to Reconcile, Work Together and Move Forward.

The American Human Rights Council (AHRC-USA) and the community it proudly serves in Michigan and across the nation extend their congratulations to President-Elect Donald Trump and his VP JD Vance for their remarkable victory in this year’s presidential elections. This year’s elections were undoubtedly historic and exceptional. It is one presidential race that has been watched closely at home and abroad. AHRC congratulates all winning candidates for all electoral posts.

AHRC looks forward to the new administration fulfilling its promises. We urge inclusion and diversity in words and deeds. In addition, AHRC urges all elected officials to seize the opportunity to help unite the country. We cannot afford to have open-ended divisions.

Voters have chosen and voters have decided, and this is democracy. AHRC calls upon both the Democratic Party and the Republican Party to collaborate on solutions in the nation’s interests. AHRC urges all citizens, regardless of their political views and political party affiliations, to reconcile and unite to serve the public good.

Regarding foreign policy, we hope the new administration sets policy grounded in America’s democratic values and respect and commitment to international law and UN resolutions. AHRC hopes that Mr. Trump will help bring genuine peace and help put an end to the senseless wars in the Middle East and in the rest of the world. AHRC urges President Elect Trump to honor his promises to the Arab and Muslim American communities.

AHRC hopes that the new administration will put an end to the genocide in Gaza and the war on Lebanon. The US has the power and influence, political will was lacking with the current marginalized and ineffective administration.

“Even though there is a history of disappointments, we can’t be but optimistic and hopeful,” said Imad Hamad, AHRC Executive Director. “Mr. Trump reached out to the Muslim and Arab communities with promises to end the horrible violence and carnage in the Middle East, we hope he delivers on these promises,” added Hamad. “The fact that the election is over does not mean it is time to rest, it is time to remain engaged and to make sure President Trump delivers on his promises,” concluded Hamad.

“Candidate Biden in the 2020 election promised the Arab and Muslim American communities a foreign policy grounded in human rights and international law,” said Dr. Ihsan Alkhatib, associate professor of Political Science at Murray State University. “Instead, he delivered a US-sponsored genocide in Gaza and a horrible war on Lebanon,” added Alkhatib. “The policy of subserviently giving Netanyahu everything while not expecting or getting anything in return is going to change,” added Alkhatib.

Diriyah Company Signs Strategic Trade Travel Agreements for Diriyah, with Global Travel Partners Abercrombie & Kent​and Almosafer

By
شمس سيف
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Diriyah Company Signs Strategic Trade Travel Agreements for Diriyah, with Global Travel Partners Abercrombie & Kent​and Almosafer

Diriyah, The City of Earth, and the birthplace of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, projected to attract 50 million annual visits by the turn of the century, is enhancing its tourism profile through strategic collaborations with luxury travel company Abercrombie & Kent and Saudi travel platform Almosafer. These partnerships aim to elevate Diriyah as a premier global cultural and tourism destination.​

Under the agreements, signed at WTM 2024 in London, Diriyah Company and its travel partners will collaborate to promote Diriyah, The City of Earth, as a leading destination for global travelers looking to immerse themselves in history, heritage, culture and luxury. The collaborations will play a vital role in helping to attract and engage with growing numbers of domestic and international visitors as the mixed-use urban development comes to life over the coming years.

Diriyah Company’s travel trade agreements are designed to help position Diriyah as a must-visit destination on the global tourism map and a major part of Saudi Arabia’s rapidly growing tourism market.

Partnering with specialist agencies will help to further elevate Diriyah’s status as a premier travel destination through strategic partnerships, joint marketing initiatives, and a deep understanding of tourist preferences and trends.  It will lay the foundation for future lucrative commercial contracts, including the development of tourism products and commitments to mass travel from key source markets.​

Jerry Inzerillo, Group CEO of Diriyah Company, said: “We have ambitious plans for Diriyah, “The City of Earth,” to become a premier destination for visitors, seeking 50 million annual visits by 2030. However, we cannot achieve this alone. The travel trade agreements we have signed today with our partners Abercrombie & Kent and Almosafer will help inspire travelers from around the world to enjoy and celebrate what Diriyah has to offer through world-class experiences in hospitality, dining, retail, heritage, and entertainment.”​

Diriyah Company is participating in WTM 2024 to provide the travel industry with an in-depth look at its transformation journey. With plans to develop 40 luxury hotels, the Royal Diriyah Opera House, and the 20,000 seat multi-purpose Diriyah Arena, among many other attractions, Diriyah is set to become one of the greatest gathering places in the world, situated on the outskirts of the capital city of Riyadh.

Since opening the UNESCO World heritage site of At-Turaif and the premium dining destination of Bujairi Terrace at the end of 2022, Diriyah has welcomed over two million visits and will open its first hotel – the 134-room Luxury Collection Bab Samhan later this year.

Arab Health to celebrate 50th edition in 2025

By
شمس سيف
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Arab Health to celebrate 50th edition in 2025

 Arab Health, the Middle East’s largest and most important healthcare event and congress, will celebrate its 50th edition when it returns to the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from 27 – 30 January 2025. The show will attract an international audience under the theme of ‘Where the world of healthcare meets’.

Last year, record-breaking business deals exceeding AED9 billion were completed, along with record participation from 3,627 exhibitors and more than 58,000 visitors, which has increased year on year. 

Since its inception in 1975 with just over 40 exhibitors, Arab Health has grown into a globally recognised event. Initially focused on showcasing medical products, the exhibition has grown steadily, increasing regional and international participants throughout the 80s and ’90s before securing global recognition in the 2000s.

Today, Arab Health attracts an audience of leading healthcare figures and international exhibitors from around the world, with the 2025 edition expected to draw more than 3,800 exhibitors, many unveiling world-exclusive innovations in the healthcare sector, with visitor numbers expected to surpass 60,000.

The 2025 edition is expected to draw more than 3,800 exhibitors as a result of increased floor space, including utilising Al Mustaqbal Hall, with many unveiling world-exclusive innovations in the healthcare sector.

Solenne Singer, Vice President at Informa Markets, said: “As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of Arab Health, it is a fitting moment to reflect on the evolution of the UAE’s healthcare sector, which has developed alongside the nation’s growth over the past five decades. 

“Through strategic investments, the adoption of cutting-edge technologies, and international collaborations, the UAE has transformed its healthcare landscape, ensuring high-quality care for its citizens and positioning itself at the centre of medical excellence and innovation. 

“Arab Health has been at the heart of this journey, facilitating billions of dollars in deals in the last 50 years, fostering growth, knowledge exchange, and advancements that continue to shape the future of healthcare in the UAE.”

Underscoring the event’s commitment to innovation, the 50th-anniversary edition will see the debut of the World of Wellness and the Healthcare ESG conferences, which focus on the future of healthcare. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore cutting-edge wellness and sustainability initiatives, with presentations ranging from groundbreaking pharmaceutical developments to innovative health tourism initiatives aimed at fostering a healthier and more sustainable future. 

The Smart Hospital and Interoperability Zone, powered by Cityscape, will offer visitors an immersive experience of the future of healthcare. This pioneering showcase will feature demonstrations of innovative and sustainable healthcare technologies, highlighting how technologies can seamlessly integrate with state-of-the-art medical equipment to enhance the overall patient care environment.

The Transformation Zone will feature talks, product showcases, and the popular Innov8 Start-up competition. Last year, VitruvianMD won the competition and a cash prize of US$10,000 for their technology, which combines biomedical engineering with state-of-the-art artificial intelligence (AI). 

The Future Health Summit will return this year, bringing together global experts to address the topic of AI in action: Transforming Healthcare Delivery. The invite-only summit creates an opportunity for senior government officials and healthcare CEOs to network and gain insights into the forthcoming groundbreaking advancements in the industry. 

Ross Williams, Senior Exhibition Director, Informa Markets, said: “AI in healthcare, though still in its early stages, is showing immense promise. Research is focused on developing advanced algorithms that leverage deep learning and machine vision, enabling the automatic correlation of patient data with clinical insights.”

“Ultimately, AI has the potential to facilitate more timely and accurate diagnoses, improving patient outcomes, which is exactly what we want to address during the Future Health Summit,” he added.

Medical professionals attending Arab Health 2025 will have access to nine Continuing Medical Education (CME) accredited conferences, taking place at Conrad Dubai, including radiology, obstetrics and gynaecology, quality management, surgery, emergency medicine, infection control, public health, decontamination and sterilisation, and healthcare leadership. Orthopaedics will be a non-CME invite-only conference.

In addition, four new thought leadership non-CME accredited conferences will take place: EmpowHer: Women in Healthcare, Digital Health and AI, Healthcare Leadership, and  Investment.

An extended version of the Arab Health Village will return, designed to provide visitors to the show 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 will be 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. 

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

xEnergy Elite: Eaton’s New Low Voltage Switchgear and Motor Control Solution for Enhanced Safety and Efficiency in the Industrial Sector

By
Sahfy Sahfy
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xEnergy Elite: Eaton’s New Low Voltage Switchgear and Motor Control Solution for Enhanced Safety and Efficiency in the Industrial Sector
xEnergy Elite: Eaton’s New Low Voltage Switchgear and Motor Control Solution for Enhanced Safety and Efficiency in the Industrial Sector

Intelligent power management company Eaton today announced the launch of its new xEnergy Elite low voltage motor control and power distribution centre for loads up to 7500 A and 690 VAC. It provides greater uptime and flexibility, with maintenance cost savings, for business-critical applications in oil and gas, mining, and other industrial environments.

The xEnergy Elite motor control centre (MCC) complies with the relevant International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standards and is designed for maximum power availability and protection of operating as well as maintenance staff. It incorporates advanced motor control and protection technologies that optimise performance while protecting personnel and equipment, for instance by minimising the dangers associated with an arc flash event beyond the requirements of IEC TR 61641. The MCC’s fully segregated dropper busbars, optional fully isolated main busbars and Elite patented contact system for withdrawable motor starters and energy feeders are specially designed to prevent an arc flash from occurring. 

The Elite contact system allows for operation while the compartment door is closed, increasing personnel safety. With the use of a key, the units can be placed in the disconnect, test or connected position. The incoming air circuit breaker (ACB) is equipped with Eaton’s unique Arc Flash Reduction Maintenance System™, which significantly reduces incident energy during maintenance. It is only active when required, thereby preserving the protection against overcurrent under normal operating conditions.   

The reliable and sturdy design of the xEnergy Elite MCC improves uptime and reduces the need for maintenance. Thanks to the unique rotating contact technology of the Elite drawer units, contact wear on the vertical busbar is reduced to an absolute minimum. This ensures that the electrical connections are ideally positioned even in the event of a short-circuit or a heavy starting load to avoid sparking. 

Since July 1, 2023, the use of Super Premium Efficiency motors (IE4) has become mandatory for motors with a rated output between 75 kW and 200 kW. The xEnergy Elite withdrawable motor starter units support the new utilisation categories for Premium Efficiency (IE3) and Super Premium Efficiency (IE4) motor switching and can be exchanged from the front without shutting down the system, enabling it to be serviced and expanded without interrupting production. This plug-and-play solution is tested for more than 1,000 mechanical operations, significantly higher than the IEC standard of 200.

The MCC’s small footprint offers increased flexibility based on high-density micro-drawer configurations. The busbars are virtually maintenance-free, and all functions can be accessed from the front of the switchgear, so that the need for rear access is greatly reduced (both with the main busbar located at the back and on top). As a result, xEnergy Elite can be 

placed against the wall (requiring only 5 cm of clearance for ventilation purposes), which can save up to 2 m2 per section, freeing up valuable floor space. Additionally, the system offers a shared main busbars solution, which further minimizes the footprint and reduces the amount of copper used.

Furthermore, the specific requirements of customers needing rear cable compartments can be met with the latest development introduced to the system, featuring busbars located on top.

“Given that motor failure may cause production downtime, costly repairs and serious safety issues for personnel, the powerful control and protection provided by xEnergy Elite is a core element of a dependable and safe system”, says Qasem Noureddin, Managing Director-Eaton Middle East.

EBRD and Quds Bank support small Palestinian businesses

By
Sahfy Sahfy
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EBRD and Quds Bank support small Palestinian businesses
EBRD and Quds Bank support small Palestinian businesses

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is supporting Palestinian micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) by providing a US$ 8 million loan to Quds Bank, one of the largest local banks in the West Bank and Gaza and an EBRD partner since 2019.

The Palestinian economy has been severely impacted by the war in Gaza, suffering an estimated 35 per cent contraction as of June 2024 and an unprecedented unemployment rate of more than 50 per cent. MSMEs account for more than 98 per cent of businesses in the West Bank and Gaza, generating over 60 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP), and have been among the firms most affected by the war.

The EBRD funds will be lent on to eligible private MSMEs in the West Bank to provide vital liquidity to maintain operations and contribute to building the resilience of the local private sector.

The facility builds on the EBRD’s past experience with Quds Bank, which includes a US$ 5 million credit line under the EBRD’s Covid-19 response in 2021 and more than US$ 36 million of trade finance transactions supported under the Bank’s Trade Facilitation Programme to date.

Mark Davis, EBRD Managing Director for the southern and eastern Mediterranean region, said: “We are very pleased to partner with Quds Bank once again to support the Palestinian economy in these challenging times. We hope that our loan to Quds Bank can support more MSMEs in the West Bank, helping them to weather current difficulties and emerge stronger.”

Dureid Jerab, Deputy Chairman of Quds Bank, said: “We are pleased to see our partnership with the EBRD deepen over the years and happy to be receiving an SME loan today. This loan will enable us to further support our MSME clients and help them navigate the current challenges they are going through.”

Since the start of its activities in the West Bank and Gaza in 2017, the EBRD has obtained approval for 29 transactions worth a total €155 million.

ATRC Entity Unveils SteerAI, New Tech Venture Set to Transform Industrial Vehicles into Autonomous Powerhouses

By
Sahfy Sahfy
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ATRC Entity Unveils SteerAI, New Tech Venture Set to Transform Industrial Vehicles into Autonomous Powerhouses
ATRC Entity Unveils SteerAI, New Tech Venture Set to Transform Industrial Vehicles into Autonomous Powerhouses

The Advanced Technology Research Council’s (ATRC) commercialization arm, VentureOne, has launched SteerAI, which offers an advanced mobility system powered by AI that can transform standard industrial vehicles into autonomous powerhouses.

Catering to both the logistics and defense sectors to begin, SteerAI uses a hardware kit, software stack, and fleet management system to allow autonomous ground vehicles to tackle complex missions with high precision and efficiency, saving time and resources while protecting human workforces. SteerAI’s technology was developed by experts from the Technology Innovation Institute (TII), the ATRC’s applied research arm.

H.E. Faisal Al Bannai, Adviser to the UAE President and Secretary General of ATRC, said, “The launch of SteerAI is a significant milestone in solidifying the UAE’s leadership in autonomous technology. At ATRC, our vision is to continuously push the boundaries of innovation, and SteerAI exemplifies how we are turning groundbreaking research into real-world solutions that drive tangible impact.” 

“We have not simply created an autonomous vehicle—we have created an autonomous vehicle’s ‘brain,’” said Dr. Najwa Aaraj, the CEO of TII. “The advanced navigation algorithms work with cutting-edge sensors as part of an efficient, modular system that can work on any vehicle, and that has the potential to transform the way we move.”

Autonomous vehicles powered by SteerAI’s system will be able to run consistently and precisely between navigation points with minimal downtime. The software stack works together with corresponding sensors to allow vehicles to respond swiftly to potential hazards, maneuver around obstacles, and operate seamlessly even in challenging environmental conditions and unmapped areas.

In addition to enabling fully autonomous mobility, SteerAI’s software also facilitates remote fleet management, providing mission planning and monitoring as well as data-driven analytics to ensure optimal vehicle deployment and performance. 

“SteerAI launch represents a major milestone in our journey of driving positive impact through the use of advanced technologies,” said Reda Nidhakou, the Acting CEO of VentureOne. “The mobility needs in logistics and defense are intense, complex, and costly. Our vehicle-agnostic autonomous system redefines operational efficiency and precision while protecting companies’ most valuable assets—their people. Our mission is to leverage technology to help our partners transform the way they operate.”

SteerAI is the second venture launched by VentureOne. AI71, which launched in November 2023, creates business solutions using TII’s Falcon generative AI models.

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