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Informa Connect Announces the 21st Edition of the HR Summit and Expo

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Sahfy Sahfy
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Informa Connect Announces the 21st Edition of the HR Summit and Expo
Informa Connect Announces the 21st Edition of the HR Summit and Expo

 [Dubai, October 11, 2023] – Informa Connect is thrilled to announce the much-anticipated 21st edition of the HR Summit and Expo (HRSE), affirming its status as the Middle East’s most extensive and enduring HR event. In 2023, HRSE is poised to deliver its most comprehensive and engaging experience to date, spanning an exhilarating five-day schedule with one masterclass, two conference and exhibition days, one awards ceremony and two days of dedicated certified workshops on key HR themes focused on the future of work from October 23 to 27.

With a remarkable 20-year legacy, HRSE has consistently stood out as a beacon of inspiration, innovation and motivation for HR professionals. This year, the series kicks off with an exclusive Masterclass by Dave Ulrich on October 23 at Park Hyatt, Dubai. Dave Ulrich, an influential figure in Human Resources and management, commands immense respect in the business world. He boasts accolades such as being recognised as the top management guru by Business Week, ranked as one of Forbes’ top-five coaches. His induction into the Thinkers50 Hall of Fame further cements his status as one of the foremost global business thinkers.

Dave Ulrich’s forthcoming masterclass on talent management is an event not to be missed, promising to shed light on the critical importance of talent in the corporate realm. This session will unveil emerging trends in talent management, provide data-driven insights through the Organisation Guidance System, and equip attendees with practical strategies to gain a talent advantage within their organisations. Dave Ulrich’s wealth of experience and accolades make his insights indispensable for those striving to excel in the ever-evolving business landscape. As Dave said, “The global HR landscape is evolving rapidly due to factors like the pandemic and new technologies. In the Middle East, particularly in the UAE and KSA, the industry is dynamic due to economic growth and high demand for talent. HRSE is a pivotal event for learning, networking, and collaborating in response to these changes.”

From October 24 to 25, the HR Summit & Expo will unfold at Halls 3 and 4 in the Dubai World Trade Centre. HRSE brings together industry leaders to share practical insights through various formats covering topics ranging from the future of work, employee engagement, talent strategies, DEI, total rewards, and so much more. Moreover, the event boasts an extensive exhibition floor, showing global HR services and solutions from Zurich International Life Ltd. and Wharton as Headline Sponsors, Akrivia HCM as both Gold Sponsor and Coffee Sponsor, PeopleStrong/Vantage Circle as the Platinum Sponsor along with sponsorship for the Future Workplace Awards Gala Dinner and Drinks, Other Platinum Sponsors include Cigna Healthcare, Hayah Insurance, XpertLearning/Cornerstone and Knowledge Consulting Group. The Gold Sponsors are Darwin Box and Bupa Global/Sukoon.

Visitors will get free access to the four seminar rooms, including one dedicated to innovation and technology (the HR Tech room) HRSE offers a holistic experience, encompassing networking opportunities, valuable learning experiences, and an exploration of the latest HR and well-being trends.

HRSE attendees will have the privilege of witnessing luminaries like Lynda Gratton, a distinguished Professor and Organisational Theorist at the London Business School, renowned globally as a leading authority on the future of work. On the second day, Lucy Adams, former HR Director at the BBC, will share her experiences in managing significant change in complex organisations, addressing quick decision-making, moral considerations, and redefining leadership in an uncertain world. Lucy will also provide insights into managing public scrutiny and organisational challenges from her five-year tenure, offering fresh perspectives on leadership and employee engagement. Another unmissable talk is by Dr. Adam Hickman, Ph.D., Vice President of Learning, Organisational Development, and Cast Member Development at The Walt Disney Company, a renowned expert in leadership, HR, and organisational development. Dr. Hickman’s session promises valuable leadership insights on October 25.

The Future Workplace Awards, a premier recognition platform in the Middle East, will be held on October 24 at Park Hyatt, Dubai. These awards celebrate innovation in HR practices and initiatives, acknowledging outstanding contributions by individuals, teams, departments, and organisations that have shaped the regional HR landscape. The mission of these awards is to promote best practices that elevate employee experiences, drive business growth, and advance the industry.

Following the awards ceremony, the certified workshops are scheduled for October 26 and 27 at the Sheraton Grand Hotel. These include:

  • Total Rewards Design Thinking for Exceptional Employee Experiences – Presented by Dr. Todd Brodie, a faculty member at WorldatWork MENA.
  • Aligning Learning and Talent Development Strategy to Business Objectives  – Presented by Niamh Briody-Jordan, an expert associated with the Association for Talent Development (ATD).
  • Reskilling and Upskilling the Workforce – Presented by Dr. Pam Jackson, PhD, CEO & Founder of Driven Performance Consulting FZE.
  • Generative AI X HR – Presented by Frederik Haentjens, CEO Get Design Thinking.
  • Total Rewards in a Remote Work Era: Adapting Compensation and Benefits for the Hybrid Workforce – Presented by Dr. Todd Brodie, a faculty member at WorldatWork MENA.
  • Fundamentals of Training & Facilitation Certificate – Presented by Seema Nagrath Menon, MD, and Founder of CALM Worldwide, who is an ATD Master Trainer.
  • Career Capital Theory – Presented by Shad Rogers, Founder of Clairmont Development, delves into this subject.

Don’t miss the opportunity to secure your in-person pass for this remarkable – five day learning, insights, and networking experience. The Premium Delegate Access pass allows you to attend the live – two day summit in Dubai, access the exhibition, engage in face-to-face networking over lunch, coffee breaks, and in-person meetings. Choose from various pass types, including Platinum for the full five day package, Gold for flexible options, Silver for tailored access, Bronze for a comprehensive two day experience, or an Awards Pass for exclusive access to HRSE Exhibition, Hives (Seminars), and Awards. As a bonus, you’ll receive a one-year free subscription to Streamly, the new video content platform, offering access to HRSE content and recordings from HR community events. Group discounts are available.

Forbes Middle East Concludes Its Second Annual Healthcare Summit

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Sahfy Sahfy
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Forbes Middle East Concludes Its Second Annual Healthcare Summit
Forbes Middle East Concludes Its Second Annual Healthcare Summit

Abu Dabi, October 11, 2023: Forbes Middle East, in partnership with PureHealth, the UAE’s largest healthcare group, has concluded its second annual Healthcare Summit, which was held on October 8-10 at the St Regis Saadiyat in Abu Dhabi, under the theme “Health for Everyone: Advancing Healthcare.”

With more than 700 guests, speakers, dignitaries, and industry leaders in attendance, the vital event explored how the entire healthcare ecosystem is transforming to embrace technology, sustainability, and new cutting-edge therapies to improve patient outcomes and longevity. The summit also highlighted the importance of considering sustainability and waste reduction in facility operations, health infrastructure, and medical supplies.

Khuloud Al Omian, CEO and Editor-in-Chief of Forbes Middle East, emphasized the significance of the summit, stating, “We are thrilled at how everyone came together to make this incredible event such a success. There is nothing more precious than our health, and the industries that take care of this gift are among the most vital in the world. It makes me so proud that we have built this platform that enables so many experts, practitioners, and policymakers to come together to debate the issues most important to them and share their stories and discoveries for the good of human life.”

Forbes Middle East Concludes Its Second Annual Healthcare Summit
Forbes Middle East Concludes Its Second Annual Healthcare Summit

Shaista Asif, Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of PureHealth, said: “We are happy to have partnered with Forbes Middle East to deliver this year’s groundbreaking Healthcare Summit. The event brought together leaders in healthcare and provided a platform for knowledge sharing and discussion of some of the most critical challenges we face in the industry. At PureHealth, we are committed to ideas exchange and engagement across the sector to bring about transformative developments that foster longevity and well-being in our communities and beyond. We remain steadfast in our dedication to further strengthening Abu Dhabi’s global position as a health and longevity hub, in line with the national vision, and we congratulate Forbes Middle East on a successful summit.”

The summit offered a comprehensive program featuring in-depth discussions, thought-provoking panels, interactive sessions, and inspiring stories. These included insight from: Shaista Asif, Group Chief Operating Officer of PureHealth; Dr. Fatima Al Kaabi, Executive Director of the Abu Dhabi Bone Marrow Transplant Program at the Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center; H.E. Dr. Mariam Matar, Founder & Chairperson of the UAE Genetic Diseases Association; H.E. Maqsoud Kruse, Chairperson of the National Human Rights Institution UAE; Ayman Mokhtar, Regional President MENA & EURASIA at Viatris; and Dr. Fouziyah Al-Jarallah, Owner & Operator of the Hayat National Hospitals Group.

As well as its presenting partner, PureHealth, Forbes Middle East worked with a number of other esteemed partners to deliver this vital event: support partners Jamjoom Pharma, Fern Interior Decoration, and Desert Group; knowledge partner Khalifa University; support partners Marina Retail Corporation and Sheikh Shakhboot Medical City; event partners Hayat National Hospitals, Carexso, the Pharmaceutical Development Company, and NABD; food partners Amazonas4u, One Hive, House of Pops, Bustanica, Camelicious, and Barakat; wellness partners The Art of Living and Aroma Tierra; sustainability partner No More Bottles; AI and technology partner PurpleGlo; and gift partners Patchi, The Elixir Clinic, The Ritz Carlton Istanbul, The Oberoi Beach Resort Al Zorah, Rixos Premium Dubai, Niyama Private Islands Maldives, W Abu Dhabi Yas Island, Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas, St Regis Cairo, Hampton by Hilton Marjan Island, Zulal Wellness Resort, xNARA, and Organic Foods & Café.

Forbes and PureHealth Partner to Advance Healthcare in Middle East and North Africa

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Sahfy Sahfy
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Forbes and Pure Health Partner to Advance Healthcare in Middle East and North Africa
Forbes and Pure Health Partner to Advance Healthcare in Middle East and North Africa

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, October 3, 2023: Forbes Middle East, in collaboration with PureHealth, the largest healthcare platform in the Middle East, has announced the return of the Forbes Middle East Healthcare Summit at St Regis Saadiyat, Abu Dhabi, from October 8-10. The summit sets a notable milestone as Abu Dhabi’s inaugural sustainable healthcare event, exclusively utilizing eco-friendly mediums and implementing waste reduction strategies, including measures to minimize food waste. Under the theme “Health for Everyone: Advancing Healthcare,” the summit will gather healthcare professionals and experts to discuss transformative strategies to elevate the sector in the Middle East.

The summit will explore AI’s potential to revolutionize healthcare, unlocking new opportunities for advanced technologies and processes to elevate healthcare delivery and optimize operations. Additionally, it will shed light on longevity, mental health, stem cells, and regenerative medicine, exploring breakthroughs that promise to reshape the future of healthcare in the region. Attendees will engage in thought-provoking panels and interactive sessions, exchanging insights to drive progress.

Khuloud Al Omian, CEO of Forbes Middle East, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership with PureHealth, stating: “Our collaboration with PureHealth underscores our commitment to promoting excellence and innovation in the healthcare sector. We are thrilled to join forces with a key player in the industry and are excited to facilitate cooperation, spark innovation, and shape the future of healthcare.”

Commenting on the partnership, Shaista Asif, Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of PureHealth, emphasized: “We are delighted to collaborate with Forbes Middle East to deliver this year’s Healthcare Summit.  At PureHealth, we are committed to shifting healthcare paradigms and establishing a framework that fosters longevity and well-being in our communities and beyond. We are dedicated to further strengthening Abu Dhabi’s global position as a health and longevity hub, in line with the national vision. This event further testifies our continued interest and engagement to chart a course toward transformative advancements, ensuring a healthier and more sustainable future for generations to come.”

In line with corporates’ shared commitment to global sustainability responsibility, Forbes Middle East and PureHealth are partnering to drive a new initiative at the healthcare summit, aiming to make it the first-ever zero-waste and eco-friendly event. This initiative will showcase their dedication to suitability, well-being, and a healthy environment.

As part of the sustainability track, the Forbes Middle East Healthcare Summit will emphasize the importance of waste reduction in healthcare operations during the discussions and sessions and address the industry’s environmental impact, demonstrating the collective efforts in the Middle East to create a healthier and more sustainable future.

PureHealth has further demonstrated its dedication to sustainability by pledging to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040. The announcement was made during the UAE’s Year of Sustainability and the staging of the 28th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28).

Forbes Middle East and PureHealth invite healthcare professionals, policymakers, and industry leaders to join this transformative summit and be part of shaping a brighter future for healthcare in the Middle East. 

Participants’ collective commitment and efforts will not only advance healthcare accessibility and quality but also make a tangible contribution to creating a healthier planet for generations to come.

ADNOC Drilling announces growth in interim cash dividends for the first half of 2023

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Sahfy Sahfy
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ADNOC Drilling announces growth in interim cash dividends for the first half of 2023
ADNOC Drilling announces growth in interim cash dividends for the first half of 2023

Abu Dhabi, UAE – October 10, 2023: ADNOC Drilling Company PJSC (“ADNOC Drilling” or the “Company”) (ADX symbol: ADNOCDRILL / ISIN: AEA007301012) announces an interim dividend payment of $358 million, or 8.22 fils per share, for the first half of 2023. This represents another 5% year-on-year increase, in-line with the Company’s progressive dividend policy. The interim dividend distribution will be on or around October 27, 2023, to all shareholders of record as of October 19, 2023.

ADNOC Drilling Chief Executive Officer Abdulrahman Abdulla Al Seiari said: “This continued growth in dividend reflects ADNOC Drilling’s strong and visible cash flows and confidence in long term growth. Our ability to deliver highly attractive, sustainable and growing shareholder returns is testament to our focus on profitability and cash flow, with our customers growth plans and our own initiatives providing a solid pipeline of further growth in the coming years.

‘’During the first half of 2023, we have continued the rapid and unprecedented expansion of our fleet, as well as signing contracts worth more than $2.4 billion. These long-term contracts, and our unique relationship with ADNOC, provide clear, long-term visibility on cashflows and earnings, as well as protection against market volatility.’’

In the first half of 2023, ADNOC Drilling announced increased revenue of $1.4 billion, up 13% year-on-year, EBITDA of $677 million, up 17% year-on-year and net profit of $446 million, up 18% year-on-year.

The interim dividend 2023 delivers on the Company’s progressive dividend policy, reflecting the expectation of strong cash flow and long-term earnings visibility, while providing ample headroom to fund ongoing operations and investments for long-term growth. Since listing on Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange, and including this latest interim dividend payment, the Company will have distributed $1,366 million to shareholders.

Dubai hosts the Big 5 Global to attract investments worth $7 trillion

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Sahfy Sahfy
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Dubai hosts the Big 5 Global to attract investments worth $7 trillion
Dubai hosts the Big 5 Global to attract investments worth $7 trillion

Dubai, UAE | 9 October 2023: Big 5 Global, the largest and most influential construction
industry event in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA) is set to take place at
Dubai World Trade Centre from 4 – 7 December 2023. With registrations open for
participants who wish to attend the annual gathering of the global construction industry,
the event aims to host 2,200+ exhibitors and 68,000+ attendees from more than 150
countries for four days of valuable business networking, fruitful partnerships and
knowledge exchange.
Big 5 Global unites the whole industry bringing together contractors, developers,
architects, engineers, consultants, disruptors, innovators and suppliers to ESG advisors
and international and local policymakers, empowering the development of the
construction industry.
The construction industry is booming in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA)
region, with over $7 trillion in active projects and $3.8 trillion worth of recently awarded
projects, according to ABiQ. The increasing number of projects in the region attracts a
wide range of stakeholders, making Big 5 Global the ultimate platform for numerous
opportunities for both local and global companies wanting to meet decision-makers.
The UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure continues to support the event,
emphasising the importance of industry collaboration and tackling the impact of climate
change.
Ben Greenish, Senior Vice President – Construction, dmg events, organiser of Big 5
Global, said: “For 43 years, Big 5 Global has continued to serve as a true testament to
the region’s attractiveness in the global construction arena, bringing together
groundbreaking ideas, cutting-edge technologies and unparalleled expertise. The event
not only enhances the diversity of offerings with the participation of 2,200+ exhibitors
but also fosters international collaborations and promotes cross-border partnerships as

stakeholders from different parts of the world come together to share products and
services whilst driving the industry towards a sustainable future.”
Eight product sectors at Big 5 Global
In its 44 th edition, Big 5 Global is once again accompanied by eight specialised events
covering the entire construction value chain. These include Big 5 Heavy, Middle East
Concrete, Windows Doors & Facades Event, Gulf Glass, HVAC R, Middle East Stone,
the Urban Design & Landscape Expo and FM Expo.
Twenty country pavilions shine the spotlight on construction solutions from Germany,
Italy, Greece, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Spain, the UK, Türkiye, Cyprus, India, Austria
and China, among others. "The return of Austria's participation at Big 5 Global after 5
years underscores the importance of showcasing innovations on a global stage. It
comes at a time when Austria is seeking to meet new buyers in the booming MEASA
market and engage in partnerships,” added Greenish.
The event gathers over 50,000 products and solutions and welcomes a host of new-to-
show brands such as ARISTON from Italy, Henkel from Germany; Stanley Black &
Decker and Milwaukee Tool from the US; UAE-based Galadari, Genavco, ModDsys and
Mapei; SIEMENS (GCG Group) from Kuwait, among others. Some of the exhibiting
brands include DUTCO TENNANT, Emirates Steel, Grundfos, Honeywell, NAFFCO,
SCHÜCO, RAKTherm and USG ME.
Eight product sectors take centre stage at Big 5 Global including building envelope and
special construction, building interiors and finishes, construction technologies and
personal protective equipment, intelligent buildings, MEP services, off-site and modular
construction, digital construction products and services and solar products,
technologies, and services.
Advancing thought leadership
Big 5 Global brings together leaders, experts, innovators and practitioners from various
related industries, such as contracting, architecture, engineering, technology and
sustainability, among others to maximise the potential of the regional construction
market, as a global leader.
In 2023, Big 5 Global is accompanied by Big 5 Global Leaders’ Summit, Big 5
FutureTech Summit as well as Big 5 Talks which are being held under 10 different
streams including Project Management, Concrete, Geotechnical, Architecture, Solar,
Facilities Management & Retrofit, Facades, HVAC R & MEP, Offsite & Modular,
Technology, and Urban Design & Landscape.
"As we convene at this year’s Big 5 Global Leaders' Summit, I am reminded that our
shared commitment to sustainability must evolve from pledges to actions. The

government, private and public sector must work together to maintain and define the
roadmap needed to rapidly increase the adoption of energy efficiency and wellbeing in
our built environment. Through dialogues at the summit, alongside other industry
thought leaders, we’ll explore ideas and discuss ways to drive a sustainable future for
the industry,” said H.E. Dr. Ali Al Jassim, Chair, Emirates Green Building Council,
commenting on his participation at the summit.
“Through Big 5 Global, we bring diverse expertise, foster a culture of thought leadership
and expose the MEASA region’s construction industry to new innovations and best
practices. This exposure to global viewpoints at the summits encourages thought
leaders to think beyond their local contexts and adapt to global trends,” added
Greenish.
This year’s Big 5 Global will celebrate the 3 rd edition of Big 5 Global Impact Awards,
recognising innovation, sustainable development, technology and digital achievements
in the construction industry in 19 categories. With shortlists being announced, 100
finalists will undergo intense competition to lift the winner’s trophy.

ZOO Digital expands investment in ZOO Turkey

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Sahfy Sahfy
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ZOO Digital expands investment in ZOO Turkey
ZOO Digital expands investment in ZOO Turkey

ZOO Digital Group plc (AIM: ZOO), a leading provider of end-to-end cloud-based localisation and media services to the global entertainment industry, today announces an additional strategic investment in ZOO Turkey, further expanding the Group’s operations in a key growth region.
The Company initiated the first phase in its global growth strategy with the launch of ZOO Turkey in November 2021, investing in leading Istanbul-based media localisation company, ARES Media.

Two successful years of partnership has driven significant growth in core dubbing, subtitling and media services, helping to address the increased demand for high-quality Turkish content.

Global demand from major content creators and global streaming services for Turkish content and distribution of non-Turkish titles in the country continues to grow. As part of ZOO’s global growth
initiative, the increased stake in ZOO Turkey will support new opportunities to provide an enhanced offering in the MENA region. The investment will also enable ZOO to secure new talent across its key markets.

The transaction will continue to provide greater capacity in Turkey to handle higher
volumes of work at a faster rate, and access competitive pricing in all key languages.
Stuart Green, CEO of ZOO Digital, said:
“We are proud of the success of ZOO Turkey since its launch two years ago. Our partnership with
ARES has facilitated the delivery of high-quality Turkish language services to our customers and
we are thrilled to further consolidate this relationship in a key strategic market. This additional
investment further aligns ZOO with the most important markets for our customers and will ensure
we are well placed to meet growing demand for our core services in the years ahead. We look
forward to continuing to strategically support ZOO Turkey as part of our long-term growth ambitions
in the region.”
Ender Albayrak, President, ZOO Turkey, ARES Media, added:
“Since officially becoming part of the ZOO family, we have worked successfully as part of the wider
Group to deliver technology-backed localisation and media services to clients. As we see demand
grow in MENA and globally, further investment in ZOO Turkey will enable us to enhance our
services and ramp up capacity to meet demand.”

Saudi Ministry of Energy Grants Patronage to ICIS Middle East Base Oils and Lubricants Conference

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Sahfy Sahfy
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The Ministry of Energy Saudi Arabia grants patronage to ICIS’ 18th Middle Eastern Base Oils and Lubricants Conference
The Ministry of Energy Saudi Arabia grants patronage to ICIS’ 18th Middle Eastern Base Oils and Lubricants Conference

Riyadh, 8 October 2023 – The Ministry of Energy Saudi Arabia has granted patronage to ICIS’ 18th Middle Eastern Base Oils and Lubricants Conference, to be held on 17-18 October in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This premier event will provide a unique opportunity for leaders in the base oils and lubricants industry to network, share wisdom, and tackle pressing industry challenges.

Sarah Harvey, director of events at ICIS, comments, “We are honoured that the Ministry is supporting the 18th Middle Eastern Base Oils and Lubricants Conference through their patronage. It reflects the event’s prestige and the value of the base oils market in the region. Although base oils represent just 1% of total oil production, they are crucial profit drivers in the broader industry. The conference is structured to reinforce this segment, shedding light on global trends and providing essential information to boost the sale of base oils and lubricants.”

ICIS is also pleased to announce that the opening keynote speech at the 18th Middle Eastern Base Oils and Lubricants Conference will now be delivered by the Deputy of Oil and Gas Regulatory and Technical Affairs, Ministry of Energy Saudi Arabia, Eng. Majed Hindi AlUteibi. Over its two days, the conference will provide a comprehensive outlook for the Middle East market, incorporating insight into growth drivers in the region, such as infrastructure development and engagement with the African market; evolving trends, such as sustainability and digitalisation; fuel retail topics, and a view into global economic trends for base oils.

“We are delighted to welcome Eng. Majed Hindi AlUteibi to provide the keynote address this year. This event is now recognised as the prime gathering spot for industry experts and underscores the value of building connections. With an agenda defined by the industry for the industry, it features prominent voices and is tailored to attract an array of participants, spanning base oil manufacturers, lubricant blenders, additive companies, and the burgeoning fuel retail business,” concludes Harvey.

ACWA Power discussed how public and private to tackle climate change

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Sahfy Sahfy
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ACWA Power discussed how public and private to tackle climate change
ACWA Power discussed how public and private to tackle climate change

Sharm El-Shaikh, Egypt – 08 October 2023: Saudi-listed ACWA
Power, the world’s largest private water desalination company,
leader in energy transition and first mover into green hydrogen,
has reiterated the need for strong collaboration between public
and private sector players to speed up the transition to clean
energy and water generation at the Asian Infrastructure
Investment Bank’s (AIIB) eighth Annual Meeting in Sharm El-
Shaikh, Egypt.

Held under the patronage and presence of the Egyptian President
Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, the event brought together members,
partners, business leaders, civil society organisations and industry
experts to discuss investments aligned with sustainable economic
growth. ACWA Power was represented at the event by
Abdulhameed Al Muhaidib, Chief Financial Officer and Sarah Al
Harthey, Executive Manager of Business Development.

Speaking during a panel discussion at the event titled ‘Energy
Transition in the Middle East – Challenges and Opportunities’, Al
Muhaidib said that the robust approach to PPPs taken by
governments in the Middle East has enabled the rapid scaling up
of low-carbon power generation and efficient water desalination
projects.

Al Muhaidib highlighted how the region is one of the fastest
growing when it comes to sustainable energy projects, discussing
how the appetite for green projects has pushed ACWA Power to
raise the bar with competitive tariff rates on its projects. For
instance, ACWA Power has reduced tariff rates on its solar PV
projects by over 80% in just eight years.

“We expect this appetite to ramp up even further in the coming
years as governments realise the additional economic benefits of
changing their energy mix beyond the climate and environmental
ones,” he added.

During the session, Al Muhaidib also discussed the role of projects
such as the US$8.5 billion NEOM Green Hydrogen Project in
accelerating the pace of energy transition and how collaboration
with government entities and offtakers is key in enabling such
developments.

“Another area for consideration is water desalination, a sector
that ACWA Power is deeply committed to,” said Al Muhaidib. “It is
part of our strategic mission to provide water in an affordable and
sustainable manner, which has seen us reduce the amount of
energy consumption per cubic metre of water by 87% in the past
decade.”

ACWA Power has also delivered some of the lowest water tariffs
globally, most recently submitting the lowest water levelised tariff
rate in the world for the Hassyan Seawater Reverse Osmosis
(SWRO) facility in Dubai.

In parallel, the event saw Sarah Al Harthey participate in a flagship
seminar titled ‘Raising the Ambition to Meet the Climate
Challenge: Mobilisation of Resources for Climate Finance’, where
she discussed the devastating impacts of climate change on the
Global South, and how it is essential to mobilise resources to
implement projects that enable energy transition.

Over the coming months, ACWA Power will continue to pursue
new opportunities and partnerships that align with its mission of
delivering power and water in an affordable and accessible
manner, with the least possible impact on the environment.

EFG Wins First Place in Luxor at the Smart Green Project Competition

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Sahfy Sahfy
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EFG Wins First Place in Luxor at the Smart Green Project Competition
EFG Wins First Place in Luxor at the Smart Green Project Competition

Cairo, October 8, 2023 The EFG Foundation for Social Development, a non-profit, non-governmental organization, EFG Holding’s Foundation for Social Development, is excited to announce that it has won first place in Luxor at the Smart Green Project Competition by The National Initiative for Smart Green Projects, in the non-profit projects category, for its ‘Green Footprint Initiative’. The Foundation has secured a place among the finalists to compete on a national level and have a chance to be featured in COP28 in UAE. This initiative aims to create a sustainable and smart green community model to be implemented in every village and hamlet in Egypt. The initiative promotes digital transformation and financial inclusion by integrating economic development with environmental and social benefits.

The Green Footprint Initiative focuses on empowering employed and unemployed women to become agents of change within their families and provide an additional source of income that contributes to the health and education of children through cultivating rooftops and balconies, utilizing empty spaces, and reducing carbon emissions. 

The initiative is built upon three main pillars, each contributing to its impact and success. Firstly, the environmental aspect aims to reduce carbon emissions by an average of 137 kg per square meter annually. Secondly, the social aspect of the initiative focuses on training and empowering women, improving their living standards, and promoting behavioral changes within families. Lastly, the economic aspect centers around producing sustainable natural products and establishing e-commerce platforms for digital transactions, supporting Egypt’s digital transformation and financial inclusion strategy. By integrating technology, the initiative ensures efficiency, transparency, and accessibility to all.

The project strategically utilizes rooftops and balconies of homes and nearby buildings as operational sites, chosen for their cost-effectiveness and accessibility, particularly for women. Aloe Vera has been carefully selected as the primary crop, thriving in the high temperatures of Luxor Governorate. This versatile plant applies to various products, from cosmetics and medical items to dietary supplements. Smart irrigation techniques and water conservation measures are employed to ensure responsible resource management, minimizing water usage during Aloe Vera cultivation. Additionally, the project promotes sustainability by recycling wastewater from air conditioning and solar panel cleaning. To reach a wider audience, a diverse range of marketing channels, including bazaars, hotels, and online platforms, are harnessed to effectively promote and sell the products while authentically representing the characteristics and culture of Luxor Governorate.

Mona Zulficar, Non-Executive Chairperson of EFG Holding and Chairperson of the EFG Foundation for Social Development commented, “The Green Footprint initiative is a natural extension of the integrated sustainability development model championed by the EFG Foundation in its continuous efforts in tackling modern-day challenges, fostering climate resilience while embracing digitization. Through its projects, the EFG Foundation works through a holistic approach for a sustainable future that does not just focus on progress and creates a lasting impact.

Hanaa Helmy, Group Chief Corporate Sustainability and Impact Officer of EFG Holding and CEO of the EFG Foundation commented, “We are proud to be recognized by The National Initiative for Smart Green Projects for our efforts and achievements through the ‘Green Footprint Initiative,’ a well-rounded initiative with economic development with environmental and social impact targeting women. We believe that women are catalysts for change. By harnessing their potential to cultivate rooftops, we are building a future where sustainability and empowerment go hand in hand.”

To support the initiative, the EFG Foundation has partnered with the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, and the National Institute for Governance and Sustainable Development to launch the ” Her for Sustainable Development” training program for 50 women. The training was divided into two phases, two stages each.  The first phase includes the theoretical stage which focuses on raising awareness about sustainable development, climate change, and the circular economy. Then, the practical stage, which focuses on planting techniques and extraction of raw materials. The second phase includes a “Train the Trainer” program focusing on teaching the participants about entrepreneurship and marketing to help them execute their project. Instating a business acumen mindset within the women is fundamental not only for progress but equips them for sustained success in their newfound venture, as well as creating a ripple effect through knowledge transfer in their surrounding communities.

The impact achieved by the ‘Green Footprint Initiative’ is significant. In the first phase, a reduction of 3 tons of carbon emissions per year has been completed, in addition to recycling solid and organic waste and implementing conversation measures.  It has also achieved a 68% return on investment and created 100 new job opportunities. Additional income has been generated for families, ranging from EGP 12,000 to EGP 15,000 annually, contributing to their well-being. The initiative has proudly achieved 14 out of 17 sustainable development goals set by the United Nations, in line with Egypt’s 2030 strategy.

The initiative builds upon the successful sustainable development model implemented by the EFG Foundation in the Al-Deir community in Esna, where the Foundation has been operating since 2017. The Foundation has made impressive achievements through its projects, which have had a transformative impact on the community. These accomplishments include the development of a health unit serving 75,000 individuals, a water network serving 15,000 individuals, and training over 300 young men and women in the Montessori method. We have also established the Little Scientists Academy nursery, employed 50 teachers, and graduated 400 students from the Montessori and inclusion departments for individuals with unique abilities. Furthermore, the Foundation has successfully upgraded the sewage network, constructed a pumping station for 15,000 individuals, and collaborated with the construction of 160 housing units in partnership with the “Haya Karima” initiative. 

UAE-India MoU to drive investment and collaboration in industry and advanced technologies

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Sahfy Sahfy
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UAE-India MoU to drive investment and collaboration in industry and advanced technologies
UAE-India MoU to drive investment and collaboration in industry and advanced technologies

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 06 October 2023 – The UAE and India will cooperate more closely in sustainable industrial development following a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed on Thursday at Emirates Palace. The MoU was signed in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Hamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Member of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council. It was signed by His Excellency Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and His Excellency Shri Piyush Goyal, India’s Minister of Commerce and Industry.

The MoU signing is in line with the UAE-India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), aimed at enhancing the country’s position as a gateway for trade and logistics. The agreement was signed during the 11th meeting of the UAE-India High Level Joint Task Force on Investments.

Focusing on facilitating industrial investments, technology transfer and enabling the deployment of key technologies in industries, the MoU will benefit both countries through joint industrial and technological developments.

HE Al Jaber said: “In line with the UAE leadership’s vision, we are committed to strengthening bilateral relations to enhance sustainable and economic growth. Given the UAE’s strong relationship with India across the economic, technological, and social domains, we are pleased to sign this MoU to further develop the industrial sector in line with advanced technology and sustainability standards. This aligns with the objectives of the national industrial strategy, and ‘Make it in the Emirates’ initiative, aimed at transforming the UAE into a global hub for advanced industry, especially industries of the future.”

He added: “The MoU encompasses various aspects of cooperation aimed at promoting industrial investments in priority sectors for the national economies of both countries, including advanced industries, energy transition solutions, healthcare, and space. It also aims to develop innovative and technological solutions that support sustainability and climate neutrality efforts. By working closely within these strategic sectors, the UAE and India can accelerate sustainable growth and diversify their economies, promoting industries that are more competitive, efficient, and sustainable.”

HE Goyal commented: “This MoU opens new doors to develop cooperation efforts and build an institutional framework in the fields of emerging technologies. It will help in promoting and developing bilateral cooperation in sectors such space, healthcare, renewable energy, artificial intelligence, and many other vital areas.”

The MoU focuses on 7 key areas, including supply chain resilience, renewable energy and energy efficiency, health and life sciences, space systems, AI, Industry 4.0 and advanced technologies, as well as standardization and metrology.

To build supply chain resilience, the UAE and India will collaborate to identify opportunities to supply raw materials. They will also share best practices on industrial enablement and incentivization for industrial growth and development, for instance in areas such as energy, land, CAPEX, OPEX, technology, and labor.

In the energy space, the UAE and India will collaborate in advancing energy storage technologies, Smart Grid and IoT deployment, and R&D in renewable energy and energy efficiency. Similarly, in health and life sciences, the countries will collaborate in the development of pharmaceuticals, the use of biotechnology, and R&D.

The UAE and India are also seeking to enhance their respective space industries through closer collaboration in space systems. The MoU will help the countries to collaborate in the commercial development, launch and use of small satellites for communication and Earth observation, as well as space exploration. The countries will also collaborate in the development of licensing of space-related materials, in addition to R&D in the space sector.

In the field of AI, the UAE and India will cooperate in the deployment of AI technologies in the space sector, energy, healthcare and supply chains. Both countries will work together to advance capabilities in machine learning and data analytics across priority sectors.

Under the MoU, the UAE and India will also collaborate in the deployment of 4IR technologies in industry, real-time data processing, the development of machine-to-machine control systems, the development of autonomous robotics, equipment and vehicles, as well as the deployment of additive manufacturing in key industries.

The final area of collaboration is standardization, metrology, conformity assessment, accreditation, and Halal certification. The countries will exchange information including procedures, guidelines, and lists of regulated products. The countries will also cooperate to harmonize standards with international requirements and work towards the mutual recognition of the conformity assessment results.

Under the MoU, cooperation includes industrial and academic collaborations as well as collaborative research and development projects. The countries will also share best practices relating to science and technology policies.

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