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MENA Opportunities and Saudi Momentum Take Center Stage at EFG Hermes’ 11th London Investor Conference

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Sahfy Sahfy
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MENA Opportunities and Saudi Momentum Take Center Stage at EFG Hermes’ 11th London Investor Conference
MENA Opportunities and Saudi Momentum Take Center Stage at EFG Hermes’ 11th London Investor Conference

EFG Hermes, an EFG Holding company and the leading investment bank in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), today opened its 11th Annual London Investor Conference at the Emirates Stadium, running from September 8–11 under the theme “Investing Right in MENA.” The conference brings together global investors, leading listed companies, and policymakers to unlock opportunities across the region’s most dynamic sectors, including financial services, real estate, consumer goods, telecommunications, technology, energy, and materials. This year’s edition features 131 presenting companies and welcomes 710 guests from around the world, including 285 investors representing 146 leading investment institutions.

With a dedicated focus on Saudi Arabia, the conference hosts 82 Saudi-listed companies. EFG Hermes has partnered with the Saudi Exchange (Tadawul) to showcase the performance and progress of some of the Kingdom’s most sought-after companies and provide market perspectives from the Capital Market Authority (CMA) and Tadawul. The agenda is designed to deepen engagement between institutional investors and leading Saudi businesses, strengthen both foreign and local direct investment in listed companies, and reinforce investor confidence in the market. By encouraging greater institutional participation, EFG Hermes aims to support sustainable growth and heightened trading activity across the Kingdom’s capital markets. The conference’s main session featured opening remarks by Abdulaziz Abdulmohsen Bin Hassan, Board Member of the Capital Market Authority (CMA), following the welcome note by Karim Awad, Group CEO of EFG Holding. 

The panel on the first day, titled “Financing Saudi Arabia’s Growth,” included valuable contributions from Mohammed Al-Rumaih, CEO of the Saudi Exchange, and Raed AlHumaid, CMA Deputy of Market Institution and was moderated by Alp Sarper, Editor-at-Large of Economy Middle East. On the second day, a fireside chat titled “Liquidity, Regulation, and Real Estate: Saudi Residential Mortgage-Backed Security (RMBS)” will feature Majeed Al Abduljabbar, CEO of the Saudi Real Estate Refinance Company, in conversation with Carina Kamel, Senior Correspondent & Presenter at Al Arabiya TV in London.

“We are honored to welcome our esteemed guests from the CMA and Tadawul, with whom we closely collaborate to promote high-quality opportunities in the Kingdom. As the MENA region undergoes structural reforms, technological advancement, and strategic policy shifts, we are proud to facilitate direct engagement between institutional investors and high-impact businesses. Our role is to ensure that clients, partners, and stakeholders are positioned to capitalize on emerging trends and equipped with the insights and tools needed to thrive as the region’s global influence expands,” said Karim Awad, Group CEO of EFG Holding.

“MENA capital markets are entering a new growth phase, with investment opportunities diversifying beyond traditional industries. Both regional and global investors are increasingly focused on high-potential sectors that were previously underexplored. Regulatory reforms, ongoing market development, and the region’s strategic push to diversify economies are accelerating this evolution. By bringing international investors closer to these opportunities, the conference fosters strategic dialogue that translates into tangible investment outcomes and supports the region’s long-term economic trajectory,” said Mohamed Ebeid, Co-CEO of EFG Hermes, an EFG Holding company.

The 11th EFG Hermes London Investor Conference follows the success of EFG Hermes’ One-on-One Conference in Dubai, continuing to build meaningful connections between global institutional investors and leading regional listed companies while advancing the MENA region’s growing influence on the global stage.

ITFC CEO Highlights Over US$89 Billion in Trade Financing to Support OIC Member States, Including Arab Countries

By
شمس سيف
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ITFC CEO Highlights Over US$89 Billion in Trade Financing to Support OIC Member States, Including Arab Countries
ITFC CEO Highlights Over US$89 Billion in Trade Financing to Support OIC Member States, Including Arab Countries

Eng. Adeeb Yousuf Al-Aama, Chief Executive Officer of the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC), a member of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group, participated in the 116th Session of the Economic and Social Council of the League of Arab States (LAS), held at the Arab League headquarters in Cairo. The meeting was attended by H.E. Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Secretary-General of the League of Arab States, and H.E Mr. Samir Obeid, Minister of Trade and Export Development of the Republic of Tunisia and Chair of the Session, alongside ministers, ambassadors, and heads of specialized Arab organizations.

In his remarks, Eng. Adeeb Al-Aama expressed his gratitude to the Secretary-General of the League of Arab States for the kind invitation to participate in this Meeting. He also congratulated H.E Mr. Samir Obeid, Minister of Minister of Trade and Export Development of Tunisia, on assuming the Chairmanship of the Council, while extending his deep appreciation to the Arab League’s Economic Sector for its steadfast support to ITFC’s activities, particularly through the Aid for Trade Initiative for Arab States (AfTIAS) during its first and second phases.

He emphasized in his remarks that since its establishment in 2008, ITFC has extended more than US$89 billion in financing to Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) member countries, including Arab states, with a focus on vital sectors such as energy, agriculture, and food security.

Highlighting ITFC’s developmental impact, Eng. Al-Aama referenced ITFC’s 2024 Annual Development Impact Report, which showed that ITFC’s financing contributed to supporting over 105,000 jobs within beneficiary institutions, training and capacity-building for more than 3,000 individuals, and financing for 312 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Beyond these direct interventions, ITFC’s support improved living standards by providing access to food for more than 30 million households and electricity to around 13.8 million households, underscoring ITFC’s role as a key partner in advancing inclusive and sustainable development.

On the Aid for Trade Initiative for Arab States (AfTIAS 2.0), Eng. Al-Aama noted that since its launch in October 2021, the program has approved 26 projects worth nearly US$7 million in grants. These technical assistance projects span areas such as agriculture, food security, transport, intra-Arab trade, ICT, SME development, handicrafts, and tourism. Projects have been implemented both regionally—through specialized Arab organizations—and nationally across several Arab countries, including Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Arab Republic of Egypt, People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria, the Islamic Republic of Mauritania, the State of Palestine, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, Republic of Djibouti, and the Union of Comoros.

Looking ahead, Eng. Al-Aama announced that AfTIAS 2.0 will organize the first Arab Trade Forum in Doha in the first quarter of 2026. The Forum will serve as a high-level platform for dialogue and cooperation between the public and private sectors across the Arab region, promoting knowledge-sharing, highlighting trade opportunities, and helping to address obstacles to the Arab Free Trade Area.

In conclusion to Eng. Adeeb’s address, H.E. Mr. Samir Obeid, Minister of Trade and Export Development of the Republic of Tunisia, commended the pivotal role played by the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) in its continued support to Arab countries and its significant efforts in driving trade and development through the AfTIAS Program, which has become a leading platform for fostering economic integration and advancing sustainable development.

On the sidelines of the Council meeting, the Joint Committee between ITFC and the General Secretariat of the Arab League, co-chaired by Eng. Al-Aama and H.E. Ambassador Ali bin Ibrahim Al-Maliki, Assistant Secretary-General of the Arab League for Economic Affairs, convened to discuss ways to mobilize support for AfTIAS and promote it as a platform for advancing Arab external trade. The Committee also reviewed the implementation of AfTIAS 2.0 projects in line with Arab countries’ priorities. It is worth noting that the program has approved two projects for the benefit of the General Secretariat of the League of Arab States: “Supporting the Advancement of the Arab Economic Integration System” and “Enhancing the Competitiveness of Arab Countries to Improve Access to Global Markets,”.

Al Zeyoudi Meets with South African Business Council to Discuss Strengthening Trade and Investment Ties and Private Sector Collaboration

By
شمس سيف
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Al Zeyoudi Meets with South African Business Council to Discuss Strengthening Trade and Investment Ties and Private Sector Collaboration
Al Zeyoudi Meets with South African Business Council to Discuss Strengthening Trade and Investment Ties and Private Sector Collaboration

His Excellency Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of Foreign Trade, met with the South African Business Council in the UAE to discuss strategies for ways to increase trade, investment, and private sector collaboration between the two nations. The meeting underscored the UAE’s commitment to strengthening its economic relationships with African nations, recognizing the continent’s increasing importance in global trade dynamics.

During the discussions, HE Al Zeyoudi highlighted the impressive growth in trade between the UAE and South Africa, noting that the UAE’s non-oil foreign trade with South Africa reached US$8.5 billion in 2024 – a 14% increase compared to 2023 and a substantial 120% growth since 2019. This trade boom continued in the first half of 2025, with non-oil bilateral trade reached US$3.93 billion. South Africa is the UAE’s second-largest non-oil trade partner on the African continent, reflecting the considerable potential and opportunities that exist for both nations’ private sectors to further expand relations.

“The UAE is committed to enhancing its economic partnership with South Africa,” HE Al Zeyoudi stated. “Today’s discussions were focused on encouraging new avenues for private sector collaboration that will benefit both our nations. We are particularly excited about projects related to food security, logistics, infrastructure, tourism, and renewable energy in South Africa and across the continent. By working together, we continue to unlock new opportunities that not only drive economic growth but also contribute to the sustainable development of all our nations.”

The meeting served as a platform to discuss various initiatives aimed at leveraging the existing trade framework for mutual benefit. HE Al Zeyoudi emphasized the significance of investing in projects that align with sustainable development goals, creating jobs and lasting economic value in Africa.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to further explore collaborative projects that will enhance trade relations and economic ties between the UAE and South Africa, paving the way for a prosperous future for both countries.

Over 3,690 South African businesses currently operate in the UAE, spanning key sectors including construction, hospitality, financial services and more. UAE businesses are also increasingly active across South Africa. DP World is a major logistics operator, while AMEA Power is involved in generating renewable energy. South Africa is the largest exporter in Africa and has the highest nominal GDP on the continent, positioning it as a market with huge potential for increased private sector collaboration, particularly in sectors such as food, transport, and renewable energy, was a focal point of the meeting.

EFG Hermes Unveils Cutting-Edge, Intelligent Risk-Based Advisory Service in Partnership with Kenzi Wealth

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Sahfy Sahfy
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EFG Hermes Unveils Cutting-Edge, Intelligent Risk-Based Advisory Service in Partnership with Kenzi Wealth
EFG Hermes Unveils Cutting-Edge, Intelligent Risk-Based Advisory Service in Partnership with Kenzi Wealth

Kenzi Wealth

EFG Hermes, an EFG Holding company and the leading investment bank in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), has partnered with Kenzi Wealth, a distinguished Danish digital wealth management company, to introduce an intelligent, risk-based portfolio advisory service. This innovative solution delivers highly personalized, risk-optimized investment services, empowering clients to grow and safeguard their investments amid the complexities of today’s dynamic global markets. 

Seamlessly integrated into the EFG Hermes ONE app, the innovative ‘One Advisor’ feature, powered by Kenzi, is designed for self-directed investors who want greater confidence and control over their portfolios. The service helps investors analyze their portfolios before investing, optimize for better diversification, re-balance after investing, and navigate uncertainty during market shifts — all supported by sophisticated, institutional-grade risk modeling and analytics previously accessible only to elite investors and private banks.                                                     

Portfolios are actively monitored and intelligently managed, with clients receiving timely, actionable insights to ensure their investments remain aligned with their specified risk appetite, even amid changing Global market conditions. A streamlined digital onboarding process further enhances the experience, enabling clients to seamlessly begin investing journey with convenience and ease.

Ahmed Waly

Ahmed Waly, Global Head of Brokerage at EFG Hermes, commented, “We are delighted to introduce a transformative solution that seamlessly integrates intelligent investing with true client empowerment as we launch a sophisticated, risk-based portfolio advisory platform designed to elevate the standards of portfolio management. Our mission is to empower investors with clarity and confidence, not replace their decision-making. One Advisor is a personalized advisory service built on institutional-grade risk modeling, designed to guide clients through the complexities of global markets. Instead of merely telling investors what to buy or sell, we equip them with the insight to invest smarter, rebalance when necessary, and stay resilient in volatile conditions. Gone are the days of uncertainty in decision-making. Our automated, risk-based advisory service handles the complexities of investing, allowing clients to focus on their lives while their portfolios are expertly monitored.”

This offering is especially relevant today for potential investors who have been hesitant to enter the market. One Advisor lowers the barrier to entry by simplifying decision-making and providing structured support rooted in risk-based financial logic. This model, once reserved for ultra-wealthy families or institutions due to its cost and complexity, is now democratized through the EFG Hermes ONE platform, giving investors access to the same level of portfolio intelligence that was previously limited to private banks and elite advisory firms.

Mohamed El-Masri

Mohamed El-Masri, Founder and CEO of Kenzi Wealth, added, “Partnering with EFG Hermes, the leading investment bank in the MENA region, marks a pivotal step in democratizing access to innovative investment solutions. Together, we aim to break down barriers for new clients entering the space, offering tools that simplify the process while maintaining the sophistication of institutional-grade portfolio management. At Kenzi, we don’t just suggest; we listen, think, plan, and act based on each investor’s unique story. This personalized approach is what sets us apart – we provide the sophistication and structure of an institutional portfolio manager while ensuring it remains simple for clients and that they retain full control over their decisions. Through our collaboration with EFG Hermes, we are bringing to life a model that seamlessly blends automation with accountability and intelligence, complemented by human intent. Our mission is clear: to empower every investor with the clarity, confidence, and tools they need to navigate the financial markets and achieve their goals. Together, we are redefining personalized investing.”

The One Advisor service is currently exclusive to the Global Markets edition of EFG Hermes ONE. Existing clients can activate the feature directly through the app with just a few clicks, unlocking a world of personalized portfolio advisory. For new clients, accessing this innovative tool is equally effortless, simply by opening a global market account with EFG Hermes through a seamless, fully digital onboarding process designed for speed and simplicity. 

This launch marks a significant step forward in making professional-grade portfolio advisory services accessible, intuitive, and responsive. It is a new era of portfolio advisory — one where investors can plan smarter, invest more effectively, and navigate global markets with greater confidence. 

Ai Everything MEA 2026 Debuts in Egypt, Signaling Regional AI Leadership

By
شمس سيف
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Ai Everything MEA 2026 Debuts in Egypt, Signaling Regional AI Leadership
Ai Everything MEA 2026 Debuts in Egypt, Signaling Regional AI Leadership

Egypt is accelerating its leadership in artificial intelligence across the African continent and beyond, backed by a national roadmap for AI-driven transformation. Ranked among the top 10 countries globally in AI and Machine Learning – and the only African nation in that tier, according to the 2024 GBS World Competitiveness Index – Egypt is embedding AI across vital sectors under its National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (2025–2030).

This momentum now converges on a focused global ecosystem platform with the launch of Ai Everything Middle East & Africa, set to take place from 10–12 February 2026 in Cairo. Organised by GITEX GLOBAL, the world’s largest tech, AI, and startup event network across continents, Ai Everything MEA is positioned as the Middle East and Africa’s most empowering global AI tech week.

Hosted by Egypt’s Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) and held in strategic partnership with the Information Technology Industry Development Agency (ITIDA), Ai Everything MEA convenes leading AI enterprises, startups, thought-leaders, and decision-makers from over 60 countries. 

The event will spotlight AI use cases and frontier technologies across priority sectors aligned with Egypt’s national AI agenda and sector leadership unique to the country, including outsourcing and shared services, semiconductor design, cybersecurity, cloud infrastructure, manufacturing, digital health, fintech, energy, education, and digital public services.

By hosting Ai Everything MEA, Egypt reinforces its role as a regional nexus for AI collaboration, connecting global expertise with national priorities to fast-track deployment. Backed by strategic investments in digital capabilities, the country is advancing its digital economy mission and attracting international deep-tech investment.

Dr. Amr Talaat, Minister of Communications and Information Technology stated: “Artificial Intelligence is rapidly transforming the architecture of global competitiveness, and Egypt is determined to not only adapt to this shift – but to shape it. Our National AI Strategy reflects a bold vision: to position Egypt as a leading force in responsible AI adoption, policy innovation, and inclusive digital development.

Egypt is poised to play a pivotal role in advancing AI for public good across our region. Ai Everything Middle East & Africa offers a timely platform to align global expertise with national priorities — and to accelerate meaningful deployment of AI across sectors that matter most to our citizens.”

Additionally, Eng. Ahmed El Zaher, CEO of ITIDA, commented: “The launch of Ai Everything MEA marks a strategic milestone in our journey to position Egypt as a regional AI leader and a hub for innovation and co-creation. This event embodies our commitment to placing Egypt at the heart of the global tech conversation – by attracting deep-tech investments, empowering local startups, and nurturing an ecosystem where transformative ideas turn into real-world solutions. Hosting this global summit in Cairo reinforces Egypt’s ambition to be a key contributor in shaping the future of AI, forging impactful partnerships that scale technology from our region to the world.”

Trixie LohMirmand, EVP of Dubai World Trade Centre, global organizer of GITEX, further added: AI has leveled the digital playing field, and new opportunities are emerging for countries. Egypt is intent on harnessing this tech phenomenon to regenerate its social fabric and economic landscape, forging a future where innovation uplifts its citizens and redefines the nation’s global stature.  Ai Everything MEA shall be the force multiplier to support Egypt’s most strategic AI mission to build empowering outcomes at scale.”

Egypt’s AI Transformation: From Strategic Mission to Global Marketplace

The event opens with a high-level summit in a two-day immersive exhibition designed to accelerate collaborative AI research and development, industry applications, startup scaling, global investment inflows, and digital capacity-building. Tech giants driving AI progress in the region and worldwide, such as Atos, Cyshield, HPE, and IBM, shall join the flagship AI event in Egypt.

Over 200 venture capitalists from the GITEX network, managing more than US$1 trillion in assets, are expected to explore investment opportunities in Egyptian and regional startups. One of the region’s largest youth-tech academy will also be launched, channeling fresh engineering talent into pilot projects and mentorship programs – empowering Egypt’s annual pool of over 750,000 university graduates. 

Ai Everything MEA marks a defining chapter in accelerating responsible AI development, scalable innovation, and inclusive digital progress across the Middle East and Africa. For more information, access the website: https://www.aieverythingmea.com

Industry Ministry and UNIDO Launch Official Website for the UNIDO GC21 in Riyadh

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شمس سيف
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Industry Ministry and UNIDO Launch Official Website for the UNIDO GC21 in Riyadh
Industry Ministry and UNIDO Launch Official Website for the UNIDO GC21 in Riyadh

The Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, in cooperation with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), has launched the official website for the 21st General Conference of the Organization (GC21), to be hosted in Riyadh from November 23 to 27, 2025. The event will bring together ministers, decision-makers, experts, investors, and entrepreneurs from more than 175 countries to discuss the future of global industry and transformations related to innovation and sustainable technology.
According to a press release issued by the ministry today, the new website serves as a comprehensive gateway for the conference, offering official registration via the global INDICO system. It provides the full agenda, names of speakers and participants, and details on accompanying exhibitions. The website features a modern, responsive design compatible with various devices, ensuring a seamless and interactive user experience with real-time updates. It also offers direct technical support services to facilitate registration and participation.
The website includes a dedicated section titled “Saudi Guide,” which provides cultural and tourist content about key cities, landmarks, hotels, and visa services. This aims to enrich the experience of international participants and introduce them to the Kingdom’s cultural and tourist assets. Additionally, the website features a “Live Social Media Feed,” enabling real-time tracking of posts and discussions through the conference’s official hashtags, making it an interactive platform engaging audiences inside and outside the Kingdom.
The ministry noted that the GC21 program includes thematic days addressing pivotal issues, such as “Investment and Partnerships Day,” highlighting the role of international partnerships and artificial intelligence as drivers of industrial transformation; “Women’s Empowerment Day,” showcasing women’s leadership in shaping the future of industry; and “Youth and Young Talent Day,” focusing on the creativity of the new generation and their contributions to innovation and entrepreneurship.
For more information and registration, please visit: https://gc21.unido.org

HE Dr Thani Al Zeyoudi meets senior business leaders in Mumbai, reinforces importance of UAE-India ties

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Sahfy Sahfy
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HE Dr Thani Al Zeyoudi meets senior business leaders in Mumbai, reinforces importance of UAE-India ties
HE Dr Thani Al Zeyoudi meets senior business leaders in Mumbai, reinforces importance of UAE-India ties

His Excellency Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of Foreign Trade, underscored the importance of the UAE’s economic relationship with India during an official visit to Mumbai, where he held bilateral talks with HE Shri Piyush Goyal, India’s Minister of Industry and Commerce, and engaged with leading members of the country’s business community.

HE Al Zeyoudi’s meeting with HE Goyal focused on the success of the UAE-India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which entered into force in 2022, and the sectors that can take fuller advantage of its market access provisions. This was followed by a number of meetings with stakeholders in the logistics, agriculture, healthcare and technology sectors, and a business roundtable coordinated by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), and the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) – all of which were designed to align priorities and promote further trade and investment flows.

HE Al Zeyoudi emphasised the strength economic bonds between the two nations and the benefits of face-to-face dialogue in fostering cross-border cooperation: “This visit underlines our shared values and economic goals, and reflects the vast potential that is still to be tapped. The UAE-India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement has been instrumental in accelerating trade and investment by enhancing access to each other’s markets, boosting industrial productivity and facilitating cooperation in priority sectors. The results are clear: In the first half of 2025, our bilateral non-oil trade reached US$37.6 billion, a 33.9% rise on the same period last year and a significant stride towards the ambitious targets we set in 2022. It is vital that we continue to leverage our complementary strengths and deliver broad-based opportunity for our private sectors.”

As part of his visit, HE Al Zeyoudi also attended a presentation on the progress of Bharat Mart, a 2.7 million square feet complex located in the Jebal Ali Free Zone (Jafza) in the UAE. Operated by DP World, Bharat Mart will enable Indian manufacturers and exporters to showcase their products and leverage the UAE’s status as a global trading hub to access the markets of the Middle East, Africa and Europe. HE Al Zeyoudi also attended stakeholder meetings with leaders from both the pharmaceutical and food industries, where both Indian and UAE business representatives reviewed export performance, discussed existing concerns, explored ways to enhance bilateral trade and identified new areas for cooperation and collaboration.

HE Al Zeyoudi concluded his visit by attending a reception dinner with Indian industry and business leaders, further enhancing relations and fostering private sector collaboration. The visit underscored the commitment of both nations to work together toward continued economic growth and mutual prosperity.

TII, VentureOne, and e& introduce QuantumConnect: next-generation secure connectivity solution

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Sahfy Sahfy
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TII, VentureOne, and e& introduce QuantumConnect: next-generation secure connectivity solution
TII, VentureOne, and e& introduce QuantumConnect: next-generation secure connectivity solution

Abu Dhabi’s Technology Innovation Institute (TII) and VentureOne, ATRC’s venture builder, in collaboration with e& has launched QuantumConnect in the UAE. This next-generation hardware-based encryption solution harnesses the power of quantum physics to revolutionise secure communications, embedding hardware directly on fibre infrastructure.

Built on TII’s proprietary Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) technology, this offering is designed to ensure future-proof protection of data as it moves across networks, addressing the growing complexities of security threats, including quantum computing’s potential to break conventional encryption. QKD secures communications by transmitting encryption keys as quantum particles, which cannot be intercepted or duplicated without detection. This guarantees that key exchanges remain secure, even against future quantum attacks, providing businesses with a future-proof defence for their most sensitive data.

Developed in UAE, TII’s advanced quantum communication technology combines industry-leading expertise with local compliance, ensuring that organisations benefit from a solution tailored to their unique security needs. The solution aligns with national and industry regulations, including the UAE’s new Cryptography Executive Regulation, which stipulates management and technical security controls to safeguard the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information. In addition, it strengthens compliance with federal laws governing the use of Information and Communications Technology in health fields.

Dr. Najwa Aaraj, Chief Executive Officer, Technology Innovation Institute (TII), said: “QuantumConnect represents a significant milestone in the practical application of our Quantum Key Distribution technology—engineered to generate encryption keys using quantum safe channels. At TII, we are advancing quantum-secure communication protocols that offer provable security guarantees rooted in the laws of physics. This solution exemplifies our commitment to translating complex scientific breakthroughs into scalable, real-world systems that future-proof critical infrastructure and enable secure digital transformation across sectors.”

As organisations generate and transport more data across networks, and as quantum computing becomes a near-future reality, QuantumConnect ensures data security and resilience from the ground up. The solution enables networking with physically impenetrable encryption at the connectivity level, providing lasting protection for mission-critical communications.

Reda Nidhakou, Acting CEO of VentureOne, said: “VentureOne is dedicated to scaling game-changing technologies, and QuantumConnect is a prime example. Given e&’s leadership in the region, they are the ideal partner for us – we look forward to working with them to make QuantumConnect an industry standard.”

Esam Mahmoud, Senior Vice President, SMB Sales & Marketing, e& UAE, said: “As technological innovation accelerates, the resilience of our networks has become the foundation on which trust is built in digital domains. Our partnership with TII and VentureOne to enhance connectivity security reflects a shared commitment to address global and regional challenges in secure communications with future-proof solutions. QuantumConnect marks a paradigm shift in the UAE’s secure communications infrastructure and cyber innovation efforts, integrating quantum-backed encryption directly into the core of network connectivity. With this breakthrough solution, we will empower businesses and industries in the UAE to operate with complete confidence, safeguarding their mission-critical data against current and future threats as they navigate a complex digital landscape, and putting the UAE at the forefront of employing quantum technologies to protect its digital infrastructure.”

Designed for scalability, QuantumConnect seamlessly integrates into existing fibre-based infrastructure providing entities in highly regulated industries, like finance, healthcare, government, and other sectors a deeper layer of protection, adapting to specific security needs with ease. Its proven success is underscored by live deployments, where business clients have already experienced significant enhancements in data security and operational confidence.

As organisations prepare for the future, QuantumConnect offers a proactive defence against emerging risks, including those posed by quantum computing, making it a future-proof investment beyond data protection by providing a foundational layer of trust embedded within their network. By combining cutting-edge innovation with practical implementation, this technology delivers a trusted, next-generation solution for businesses prioritising secure, high-integrity infrastructure and communication.

More information on the partnership can be found at https://www.etisalat.ae/en/enterprise-and-government/capabilities/quantum-key-distribution.html

Dubai Investments and Angola’s Sovereign Wealth Fund (FSDEA) Sign Strategic Agreement for Real Estate Development in Angola

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Sahfy Sahfy
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Dubai Investments and Angola’s Sovereign Wealth Fund (FSDEA) Sign Strategic Agreement for Real Estate Development in Angola
Dubai Investments and Angola’s Sovereign Wealth Fund (FSDEA) Sign Strategic Agreement for Real Estate Development in Angola

Dubai Investments, a leading diversified investment company listed on the Dubai Financial Market (DFM) has signed a strategic agreement with Angola’s Sovereign Wealth Fund (FSDEA) to jointly develop large-scale real estate projects in Luanda Province, Angola.

The agreement, signed in Luanda, reflects a shared vision to promote a new cycle of investments in modern urbanization and sustainable development across the Angolan capital, with an initial focus on the development of Cazanga Island within the Luanda Archipelago.

Khalid Bin Kalban, Vice Chairman and CEO of Dubai Investments signed the agreement with Armando Manuel, Chairman of the Board of FSDEA. Also present was Angola’s Secretary of State for Urban Planning, Manuel Canguezeze, representing the Minister of Public Works and Urbanism.

Commenting on the agreement, Khalid Bin Kalban, Vice Chairman and CEO of Dubai Investments, said: “This is an important milestone for Dubai Investments as the Group expands its footprint internationally. Dubai Investments first entered the Angolan market with the development of DIP Angola, an integrated mixed-use hub inspired by the Group’s highly successful flagship development in the UAE. This agreement with FSDEA marks the Group’s second venture in the country and provides a strong platform to further extend Dubai Investments real estate expertise. With a 30-year legacy of delivering ambitious projects, the Group is proud to contribute to the development of modern, sustainable communities in Luanda and reinforce its commitment to supporting Angola’s urban development journey.”

As part of the agreement, the Angolan Sovereign Fund will participate in the investment through a special purpose vehicle that will hold the land rights for the designated areas. This structure enables Dubai Investments to contribute its development expertise towards transforming land already identified for real estate into modern, sustainable communities — unlocking value for Angola’s urban and tourism potential.

The first phase of the collaboration will focus on the development of Cazanga Island within the Luanda Archipelago, creating new opportunities for urban, residential, and tourism-led projects in Angola.

Armando Manuel, Chairman of FSDEA, added: “The signing of this agreement strengthens the Sovereign Wealth Fund’s commitment to mobilizing international capital and know-how for the development of high-impact real estate and tourism projects in the country. We believe that the real estate sector, combined with tourism, has tremendous potential to transform the urban profile of our capital, enhancing its natural resources, coastline, and rich cultural heritage.”

Angola’s Secretary of State for Urban Planning, Manuel Canguezeze, representing the Minister of Public Works and Urbanism, emphasized: “This agreement is very important as it will add value to the area and bring architectural and scenic quality to the capital city. It will also bring real estate investment that will improve the quality of properties that the city of Luanda needs.”

The partnership highlights Dubai Investments’ growing global presence and reflects the UAE’s broader vision of strengthening cross-border partnerships that drive sustainable growth, investment diversification, and urban innovation.

Sana Al Reem seeks investors for Iraq hygiene joint venture – MD

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Sahfy Sahfy
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Sana Al Reem seeks investors for Iraq hygiene joint venture - MD
Sana Al Reem seeks investors for Iraq hygiene joint venture - MD
Sana Al Reem, an Iraq-based importer and distributor of food stuff, is looking for investors for a planned hygiene joint venture (JV) in Iraq, co-founder and managing director Harith Hussein told Mergermarket.
As part of its strategy to diversify income, Sana Al Reem plans to establish a hand soap and cleaning products manufacturing facility as a JV, Hussein said, adding that the planned JV will sit on a 3,000-square metre site and will initially produce two types of hand soap.
[Is this land that Sana Al Reem already owns?]
Advisors representing potential JV investors are welcome to approach the company, he  noted.
Total JV investment is estimated at around USD 10m. Sana Al Reem will contribute land, part of the funding and marketing support, while the JV investor is expected to provide capital and operational expertise in the cleaning and hygiene sector. The venture could be structured as a 50/50 partnership or with a flexible shareholding arrangement, according to the director.
[“Sana Al Reem will contribute… part of the funding…” – Any idea how much?]
The company is seeking to partially fund its contribution through local bank loans, though Hussein noted that the approval process in Iraq can be lengthy, the director said, noting that Sana Al Reem generates annual revenues of about USD 10m.
The joint venture could later expand the product portfolio beyond hand soaps as the business scales, he added.
Hussein described the JV plans as a natural step for the group, which intends to use its established sales channels, logistics network and brand reputation to support the JV.
The move will allow the company to diversify revenues, while relying on the same warehousing and distribution system it uses for food, supported by its experience in raw materials sourcing, processing, and retail partnerships, as well as its focus on hygiene and quality standards, he explained.
Hand soap represents about 90% of Iraq’s cleaning products market, underscoring the scale of demand. Products from the new plant are expected to compete with those of international hygiene brands, as Iraq currently imports most of its hygiene goods, with only small workshops and very basic factories operating in the segment, he added.
[Do we know how much Iraq’s cleaning products market is worth?]
The company, which employs around 140 people, operates as a food importer and distributor, sourcing directly from manufacturers and supplying through a wide delivery network, according to the director.
Established more than 17 years ago, Sana Al Reem specialises in food imports, packaging and distribution, sourcing from 32 countries and offering a portfolio of over 750 products, according to its website.
[Do we know who owns Sana Al Reem – presumably Harith Hussein has a large stake; who is/are the other co-founder(s)?]
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