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Students Shine in Regional World Wildlife Event, Showcasing English Proficiency and Compassion for Nature

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شمس سيف
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Students Shine in Regional World Wildlife Event, Showcasing English Proficiency and Compassion for Nature
Students Shine in Regional World Wildlife Event, Showcasing English Proficiency and Compassion for Nature

Students from 10 countries across the MENA region have demonstrated outstanding English language skills, teamwork, and a strong commitment to wildlife conservation through the recent World Wildlife Event. With a remarkable 439 entries from young learners and adults, the competition celebrated not only biodiversity but also the students’ ability to communicate their knowledge and passion effectively.

Participants explored important topics such as endangered species, ecosystem preservation, and conservation efforts in their communities. Many students showcased impressive research, critical thinking, and collaboration — key soft skills that will serve them well beyond the classroom.

In Casablanca, Morocco, students engaged deeply with their local environment, researching native wildlife including the extinct Atlas lion, and sharing stories and folklore that connect them to their heritage. This experience enriched their understanding of both language and science while fostering a genuine care for nature.

Meanwhile, students and teachers in Kuwait proudly contributed by raising awareness about biodiversity through creative projects and presentations, demonstrating their communication skills and social responsibility.

Special recognition goes to Bahrain for the highest number of young learner submissions and Algeria for the most adult entries, highlighting broad community engagement.

This event has been a fantastic opportunity for our students to combine language learning with meaningful environmental advocacy,” said Nadia Elhabak, Senior Teacher “Watching young people articulate their ideas with confidence and empathy assures me that we are nurturing not only proficient English speakers but also responsible global citizens committed to making a difference.”

This event highlights the British Council Teaching Centre’s commitment to nurturing confident English speakers who are also compassionate global citizens. Through initiatives like the World Wildlife Event, students are empowered to develop essential language skills alongside empathy and a strong sense of environmental stewardship.

US-Iran tension exposes decline of dollar’s safe haven status: Nigel Green

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شمس سيف
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US-Iran tension exposes decline of dollar’s safe haven status: Nigel Green
US-Iran tension exposes decline of dollar’s safe haven status: Nigel Green

The financial markets’ reaction to intensifying US-Iran tensions has revealed a sharp erosion of the US dollar’s safe haven status, warns Nigel Green, CEO of global financial advisory deVere Group, as investors eye Tehran’s next move.

In the wake of targeted US strikes on Iranian nuclear sites—an escalation that risks dragging the region into broader conflict—the dollar firmed only modestly.

The muted response has stunned many, especially given the severity of the geopolitical backdrop. But the reaction is telling: the greenback is no longer the automatic refuge it once was.

“We’re witnessing a moment of reckoning for the dollar’s reputation as the ultimate safe haven,” says Nigel Green.

“The market’s restrained response, even amid a high-stakes standoff, underscores how investor faith is shifting. The world is watching Iran, but it’s also quietly reassessing the reliability of the dollar in times of crisis.”

This shift in sentiment comes after the dollar has fallen 8.6% against a basket of major currencies this year. The slide, Nigel Green explains, is partly driven by anxiety over the long-term damage from President Donald Trump’s trade tariffs, which have undermined US growth expectations and clouded policy stability, and concerns of US national debt.

“For decades, dollar dominance was a given in turbulent times,” the deVere CEO notes. “Whether during the Gulf War, the global financial crisis, or post-9/11, capital would pour into the dollar as a proxy for security. But that certainty is fading.”

In contrast, the latest flare-up in the Middle East has not sparked a stampede into the greenback. While there was an initial uptick, investors remain hesitant to commit. The tepid gains suggest the move may be a temporary, tactical reaction, not a structural vote of confidence.

“There’s a growing consensus that the US fiscal trajectory, political dysfunction, and weaponization of the dollar through sanctions carry real risks.”

Markets are now on edge for Iran’s next move. Should Tehran retaliate in a way that threatens global oil flows or draws further US escalation, the world could see significant volatility. But that volatility may not result “in the kind of dollar inflows we would have expected in the past.”

He continues: “If Iran responds forcefully and oil prices surge, we could see capital move rapidly—but not necessarily into US assets.

“Some will still run to the dollar, but fewer and more cautiously. Others will favour commodities, the eurozone, or even emerging markets seen as insulated from US-led risks.”

The rebalancing away from dollar dominance has been building for years. Nigel Green points to the aftermath of the 2008 crisis, when unprecedented quantitative easing began to undermine the dollar’s long-term value, and to more recent years where Washington’s unpredictable foreign and trade policy has alienated allies and undermined confidence.

“The world has started hedging against the dollar,” he says.

“Central banks are diversifying their reserves. Institutions are exploring alternatives. Digital currencies, including central bank digital currencies and Bitcoin, are part of the mix too.”

Still, the deVere chief executive warns against complacency. “The dollar won’t vanish as a safe haven overnight, but its gravitational pull is weakening.”

With the world awaiting Iran’s response, investors are on high alert.

“But a key subplot isn’t just about military escalation—it’s about a fundamental realignment in how global capital perceives risk and safety.

“The greenback’s mystique is fading,” Nigel Green concludes. “We’re in a new era where blind trust in the dollar no longer defines financial crises.”

Valu’s EGX Debut: A Landmark Listing for a Transformative Fintech Leader and a Milestone for Egypt’s Fintech Industry and Financial Inclusion

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شمس سيف
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Valu’s EGX Debut: A Landmark Listing for a Transformative Fintech Leader and a Milestone for Egypt’s Fintech Industry and Financial Inclusion
Valu’s EGX Debut: A Landmark Listing for a Transformative Fintech Leader and a Milestone for Egypt’s Fintech Industry and Financial Inclusion

EFG Holding, a leading financial institution with a universal bank in Egypt and the leading investment bank in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), and its universal financial technology powerhouse U Consumer Finance S.A., known by the trademark Valu, announced today the commencement of trading of Valu on the Egyptian Exchange (EGX). This landmark milestone underscores Valu’s transformative impact on Egypt’s fintech landscape and EFG Holding’s unwavering commitment to innovation, financial inclusion, and sustainable growth.

Valu’s listing on the EGX was executed through an innovative in-kind dividend distribution, where EFG Holding distributed 20.488% of Valu’s share capital to its shareholders, as of the record date, June 12th, 2025. The transaction was funded by EGP 335,322,346 from EFG Holding’s distributable retained earnings. Shareholders received one Valu share for every 3.3273 EFG Holding shares held, with fractional ownership being rounded in favor of minorities, enabling shareholders to directly participate in the growth of one of Egypt’s most dynamic fintech platforms. On its debut, global technology heavyweight Amazon has acquired shares representing a 3.95% direct shareholding in Valu for a price per share of EGP 6.041. EFG Finance Holding (EFG Finance), a subsidiary of EFG Holding, will continue to own 67% of Valu post trading and sale of shares to Amazon. 

In a market that saw total issuances grow by 31.2% in 2024, Valu outpaced the industry with 66.5% growth, solidifying its leadership with a 25% share of Egypt’s consumer finance sector. By Q1 2025, Valu had facilitated over 9.2 million transactions and was processing around 16,000 transactions daily – making it the largest network after the major card networks. Its strong customer engagement is underscored by high stickiness, with users averaging 12 transactions annually, rising to 22 with card usage. Following its recent fintech license from the Financial Regulatory Authority (FRA), Valu now offers a fully digital, end-to-end experience – including seamless eKYC, digital contracts, and secure record-keeping – further reinforcing its position at the forefront of financial innovation in Egypt.

Valu’s robust financial performance is a testament to its scalable business model and ability to deliver sustainable value. Between 2019 and 2024, Valu achieved a 146% CAGR in gross revenue, with a net profit of EGP 423 million in FY 2024 – a 78% year-on-year increase. Valu’s exponential trajectory is fueled by a diverse funding strategy, including direct and indirect bank funding, securitizations, and strategic deals. This ensures financial stability and scalability, enabling Valu to innovate relentlessly.

Dr. Mohamed Farid, Executive Chairman of the FRA, stated, “The procedures followed for registering and trading the shares of Valu represent a modern and innovative legal means to benefit from the distribution of dividends of listed companies and their affiliated activities. This helps expand the ownership and trading base without needing a public or private offering or a capital increase. It also leverages the ownership structures of investors in listed companies, reflecting the flexibility of regulatory frameworks and the evolution of available solutions to enhance the efficiency and competitiveness of the Egyptian capital market and increase its ability to attract new investments. The Authority expedited the examination, study, and coordination of technical and institutional matters with all relevant parties to ensure the safety of shareholder rights trading, and market stability. The listing conditions were met, especially regarding the number of shareholders and freely traded shares, by distributing Valu company shares as dividends to the listed company’s shareholders. Valu is the first consumer finance company listed and traded on the Egyptian Exchange. This step enhances the integration of non-banking financial activities under the Authority’s supervision. It opens the door to expanding the base of listed companies in this promising sector through stock exchanges. This, in turn, contributes to attracting new investors and adding new securities, thereby enhancing liquidity and trading levels.”

Ahmed El Sheikh, Executive Chairman of the EGX, congratulated the company’s leadership on the successful and innovative listing and offering process and the commencement of trading. El Sheikh stated: “We welcome all companies from all sectors to increase the number of listed companies to enhance the supply side, and we welcome all innovative ideas and solutions within the framework of the listing rules and governing legislation.” El-Sheikh added, “This step confirms the EGX’s trading systems’ readiness to accommodate listings and implement new, unconventional ideas by introducing innovative technologies. It also demonstrates the EGX’s role as a key catalyst for market development by providing solutions that meet the needs of companies and investors, offering them flexible and diverse alternatives to fulfill listing requirements in accordance with governing legislation. Simultaneously, it reflects EGX’s capacity to continuously develop its technological infrastructure. The successful execution in a record time, utilizing an upgraded version of the Private Transactions Market system and activating Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) for customer registration, embodies the EGX’s vision towards supporting further digital transformation and using modern technologies in the market. It also supports our efforts to increase the number of companies with listed securities on the exchange and boost trading rates.”

Karim Awad, Group CEO of EFG Holding, remarked, “Valu’s listing on the Egyptian Exchange is a proud and defining milestone for EFG Holding. It reflects the culmination of years of strategic investment, innovation, and unwavering belief in the power of financial technology to transform lives. As one of the most recognized and trusted household fintech brands in Egypt, Valu has built a loyal customer base and a resilient, scalable platform for sustainable growth. Its success is a testament to the strength of our ecosystem and our ability to incubate and scale market-leading businesses. We are confident in Valu’s ability to continue delivering exceptional value to customers and shareholders alike.”

Walid Hassouna, CEO of Valu, added, “Today marks a transformative milestone in Valu’s journey. Becoming a publicly listed company is a powerful validation of the impact we’ve made and the future we are building. Since our inception, we’ve been driven by a mission to democratize access to finance and empower individuals and businesses through innovative, tech-enabled solutions. Listing Valu brings our mission of financial inclusion full circle. As we enter this new chapter, we remain committed to innovation, inclusion, and excellence.”

Valu’s listing and trading on the EGX marks a significant addition to Egypt’s fintech ecosystem. Valu brings fresh energy and innovation to the market, offering retail and institutional investors an exciting opportunity to engage with a high-growth, customer-centric company. With its proven track record, scalable business model, and commitment to financial inclusion, Valu is poised to deliver promising growth prospects, further solidifying its position as a transformative force in Egypt’s financial landscape. 

Valu and EFG Holding engaged EFG Hermes Promoting and Underwriting S.A.E, to act as the sole financial advisor in connection with the transaction, and Zulficar & Partners to act as legal counsel. EFG Holding also engaged Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP to act as legal counsel to EFG Holding in connection with the international aspects of the Transaction.

Valu began trading today under the ticker valu.

ONEE and EBRD launch first sustainability-linked loan in Moroccan power system to drive a low-carbon future

By
شمس سيف
-
ONEE and EBRD launch first sustainability-linked loan in Moroccan power system to drive a low-carbon future
ONEE and EBRD launch first sustainability-linked loan in Moroccan power system to drive a low-carbon future

EBRD and ONEE sign €300 million loan agreement to support ONEE’s financial resilience
Loan structured as a sustainability-linked loan – the first in the region’s energy sector – with ambitious climate-related targets
Project will also support ONEE’s digitalisation journey
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and Morocco’s Office National de l’Electricité et de l’Eau potable (ONEE) have signed a €300 million loan agreement.

ONEE is involved in generation, transmission and renewables. Morocco is strongly committed to the energy transition in order to achieve its objective of having 52 per cent of its installed capacity from renewables by 2030. In this context, ONEE and the country as a whole are taking important steps towards decarbonisation, while maintaining the security and affordability of energy.

The loan is structured as a sustainability-linked loan (SLL) – the first one in the MENA and Africa region’s energy sector. It provides an example of how energy utilities can link financing with support for the transition to a low-carbon economy. The proceeds will be used to improve the company’s financial resilience, helping to alleviate the impact of the energy crisis.

The SLL builds on ONEE’s increasing climate ambitions via two key performance indicators – namely, reducing the carbon intensity of electricity generated in Morocco and increasing renewable sources’ share of the country’s total electricity production. The company’s Sustainable Performance Targets (SPTs) are in compliance with Morocco’s updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) commitments, and a leading independent second-party opinion provider has confirmed the SLL’s alignment with the internationally recognised Sustainability-Linked Loan Principles, rating the overall project as “ambitious”. This verification process was supported by FSD Africa.

As part of the loan, ONEE has committed to undertake retirement of some Carbone intensive thermal capacities in the medium term, building on Morocco’s enhanced climate ambition of transitioning to a net-zero economy by 2050 as announced at COP28. The EBRD will be supporting ONEE’s efforts to (i) prepare a decarbonisation strategy, (ii) improve its climate governance and expand the digitalisation of the company’s core activities by establishing a digital roadmap strategy and implementing digital use cases.

As part of this decarbonisation effort, ONEE is further strengthening its network and capacity planning to facilitate the renewables to be connected to the grid, as well as continuing to optimise electricity dispatch by taking into account the network’s carbon intensity.

Morocco is at the forefront of the climate action agenda, and the EBRD has been one of the leading financiers of green technologies in the country for more than a decade now, being particularly active in private-sector financing.”

Mark Bowman, the EBRD’s Vice President for Policy and Partnerships, said: “This landmark sustainability-linked loan – the first of its kind in the region’s energy sector – demonstrates that innovative finance can drive real impact. The EBRD’s support, in close coordination with the Moroccan Government, is helping ONEE to accelerate its decarbonisation and digitalisation journey while strengthening its financial resilience in response to the energy crisis. This reflects our commitment to sustainable growth and long-term impact.”

Tarik Hamane, the CEO of ONEE, commented: “Under the guidance of His Majesty Mohammed VI, Morocco is recognised as having one of the most ambitious strategies in the region for promoting renewable energy and pioneering green technologies. We are proud that ONEE is playing a major role in the integration of renewables into the energy mix with a view to increasing renewables’ share to 52 per cent by 2030. The EBRD has been a long-standing and trusted partner in supporting our decarbonisation and energy transition goals. This new partnership marks another important milestone in our joint efforts to build a more sustainable, resilient, and low-carbon power system.”

Morocco is a founding member of the EBRD and became a beneficiary of Bank resources in 2012. To date, the EBRD has invested more than €5.4 billion in the country through 119 projects.

Al Baraka Group: Empowering Customers through Trade Finance Platform and Diversified Network

By
شمس سيف
-
Al Baraka Group: Empowering Customers through Trade Finance Platform and Diversified Network
Al Baraka Group: Empowering Customers through Trade Finance Platform and Diversified Network

As part of its ongoing commitment to empowering its customers and supporting their expansion into global markets, Al Baraka Group has continued its efforts to support commercial businesses through a series of strategic initiatives that reflect the strength and diversity of its extensive network and broad geographic footprint.

Recently, the Group successfully organized two events under its Joint Trade Finance Collaboration Program among its banking units. The first session brought together exporters and importers from its units in Turkey and Algeria, while the second gathered counterparts from Egypt and South Africa. Senior leaders and trade experts from both sides participated in these bilateral sessions, offering a platform to discuss mutual opportunities and explore new areas of trade collaboration. These sessions enabled Al Baraka’s clients across these markets to access new partners and diversified trade opportunities, supporting their business expansion and enhancing cross-border trade activities.

In parallel, the Group held its second annual Trade Finance Units Meeting in Tunisia last May, with the participation of unit heads and executive management representatives from across its various units. This important gathering served as a key milestone to review the Group’s strong performance achieved in 2024, the first full year of activating the Group’s Joint Trade Finance Collaboration Program.

The meeting agenda focused on several key topics, all aimed at maximizing customer value and enhancing operational integration across the Group, and elevating services that deliver direct added value to clients. These included:

A review of joint transactions successfully executed during the year.
Discussing opportunities to enhance operational processes to boost efficiency and speed of trade transactions execution.
Presenting the latest updates on the Group’s unified Trade Finance Platform’s technical enhancements, offering seamless and flexible connectivity across units.
Exploring ways to further elevate the client experience and provide fast, diversified financing solutions.

On this occasion, Mr. Houssem Ben Haj Amor, Group Chief Executive Officer of Al Baraka Group, commented:

“These collective efforts reflect Al Baraka Group’s vision of transforming its diverse network into an integrated platform that enables clients to seamlessly access multiple markets, benefit from diversified and flexible financing solutions, and leverage the Group’s shared expertise and unified services to drive competitiveness and business growth.”
He added:
“Al Baraka Group remains fully committed to serving as a key enabler for businesses, exporters, and importers across its markets, offering advanced solutions and an integrated support network that aligns with our clients’ ambitions for expansion and growth in new markets.”

Armenia Announces Visa-Free Travel for GCC Nationals and Residents Starting July 1, 2025

By
Sahfy Sahfy
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Armenia Announces Visa-Free Travel for GCC Nationals and Residents Starting July 1, 2025
Armenia Announces Visa-Free Travel for GCC Nationals and Residents Starting July 1, 2025

Effective July 1, 2025, Armenia will introduce visa-free entry for citizens and residents of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, as part of a strategic initiative to strengthen economic relations, boost tourism, and facilitate business opportunities between Armenia and the GCC member states.

This significant development aims to enhance Armenia’s attractiveness as an accessible and welcoming destination within the South Caucasus, particularly appealing to visitors from the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman.

The new visa free policy will apply to all passport holders from GCC member states, enabling travel for tourism, leisure, or business purposes without a visa for stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Additionally, individuals holding valid residency permit issued by any of the GCC countries with at least 6 months of validity from the date of entry to Armenia, will also be eligible for visa-free entry, thereby broadening the accessibility for a substantial segment of the GCC expatriate communities.

Officials have highlighted the timeliness of this decision, noting the growing interest among GCC nationals and residents in exploring nearby destinations that offer authentic experiences, diverse culture, and natural beauty. With Armenia’s rich historical heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culinary scene, the country is well-positioned to attract a growing number of travellers and business visitors from the Gulf region.

“This milestone reflects our dedication to making Armenia more accessible to regional travellers,” said Lusine Gevorgyan, Chairman of the Tourism Committee of the Ministry of Economy of the Republic of Armenia. “We look forward to welcoming more guests from the GCC who seek meaningful travel experiences – whether through our ancient monasteries, vibrant food scene, or immersive cultural festivals.”

The Tourism Committee of the Ministry of Economy of the Republic of Armenia anticipates that the visa waiver will further stimulate collaboration with the GCC. The initiative supports Armenia’s broader tourism strategy, which includes enhanced air connectivity, improved visitor infrastructure, and dynamic destination marketing across global markets.

Armenia previously introduced visa-free travel for UAE citizens in 2017, Qatar citizens in 2019 and Kuwait citizens in 2022 – successful moves that laid the foundation for this expanded regional visa policy.For more information on tourism in Armenia, visit https://armenia.travel/

asdaq Dubai Welcomes ICBC’s Multi-Currency Green Bond Listings Totalling USD 1.72 Billion

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Sahfy Sahfy
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asdaq Dubai Welcomes ICBC’s Multi-Currency Green Bond Listings Totalling USD 1.72 Billion
asdaq Dubai Welcomes ICBC’s Multi-Currency Green Bond Listings Totalling USD 1.72 Billion

Nasdaq Dubai today welcomed the listing of three Green Bond issuances totaling USD 1.72 billion by Industrial and Commercial Bank of China Limited (ICBC). The bonds were issued under the bank’s USD 20 billion Global Medium Term Note Programme by its branches in Dubai (DIFC), Hong Kong, and Singapore.

The listings include:

  • ICBC Hong Kong Branch: USD 1,000,000,000 Floating Rate Notes due 2028
  • ICBC Singapore Branch: USD 300,000,000 4.125% Notes due 2028
  • ICBC Dubai (DIFC) Branch: CNH 3,000,000,000 2.00% Notes due 2028

These issuances further strengthened ICBC’s position as the leading Chinese issuer, as well as the leading RMB denominated bond issuer on the exchange. 

To commemorate the successful listing, His Excellency Zhang Yiming, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to the UAE rang the bell at the market-opening ceremony at Nasdaq Dubai in the presence of Hamed Ali, CEO of Nasdaq Dubai and Dubai Financial Market (DFM) and Liu Hua, General Manager of ICBC Dubai (DIFC) Branch.

Liu Hua, General Manager of ICBC Dubai (DIFC) Branch, said “The successful listing of ICBC’s multi-currency carbon neutrality-themed green bonds issued by its branches in Dubai (DIFC), Hong Kong, and Singapore on Nasdaq Dubai reflects ICBC’s confidence and commitment to the UAE capital market. As a pioneer in green financing, ICBC has significantly contributed to the environmental sustainability by extending green products, particularly within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative. With a cumulative total of USD 5.6 billion outstanding bonds in the UAE, ICBC reaffirms its strategic foresight and dedication to fostering eco-friendly and sustainable development globally.”

Hamed Ali, CEO of Nasdaq Dubai and DFM, commented “We are delighted to welcome ICBC’s latest multi-currency Green Bond listings to Nasdaq Dubai, reflecting the strength of our partnership and the growing appeal of Dubai’s capital markets among international issuers.

These listings underscore Dubai’s role as a trusted global hub for sustainable finance and reinforce our commitment to providing a transparent, innovative, and efficient marketplace that supports responsible investment. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with ICBC as they expand their ESG footprint globally.”

Following this listing, Nasdaq Dubai’s total debt listings have reached USD 136 billion, including USD 40 billion in bonds and USD 17 billion in Green Bonds. The exchange’s ESG-related issuance portfolio at USD 29 billion, reaffirms its leadership in advancing sustainable finance across the region and beyond.

Nasdaq Dubai continues to cement its position as a global leader in fixed income listings and a central platform for sustainable investment.

Saudi Arabia gears up for record year of IPOs in 2025

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Sahfy Sahfy
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Saudi Arabia gears up for record year of IPOs in 2025
Saudi Arabia gears up for record year of IPOs in 2025

Saudi Arabia’s capital markets are preparing for another wave of initial public offerings (IPOs) as the Kingdom continues to advance its Vision 2030 strategy and diversify away from oil. The Saudi Exchange (Tadawul) currently has more than 50 IPO applications under review, with around 100 companies working with advisers to prepare for listings.
The pipeline reflects growing sectoral diversity, with companies from fintech, food production, transport, logistics, and IT services all lining up to go public in the coming quarters.
One of the most notable transactions so far this year was the IPO of low-cost airline Flynas, which raised approximately USD 1.1 billion by offering a 30% stake. The deal marked the first Gulf airline IPO in nearly two decades and was fully subscribed within minutes, signaling strong investor appetite.
Other confirmed IPOs include Derayah Financial, which became the first fintech company to list in 2025, offering a 20% stake. Fourth Milling Company has also received regulatory approval to float 30% of its shares. The company is among several food sector players pursuing public listings as demand grows for consumer-focused and resilient sectors.
The market is also watching closely for upcoming listings from companies such as Tabby, a leading buy-now-pay-later provider; Ejada Systems, an IT services firm; and entities linked to the Public Investment Fund (PIF), including Saudi Global Ports, Tabreed Saudi, and Nupco. These companies are expected to list in the medium term as part of broader efforts to deepen capital markets and privatise state-linked assets.
In Q1 2025, Saudi Arabia accounted for the majority of IPO proceeds in the Gulf, with 12 main market listings and seven on the parallel market (Nomu), raising nearly USD 1.8 billion in total. Analysts expect between 50 and 60 IPOs to come to market by the end of next year, driven by continued economic diversification, favourable regulations, and strong foreign investor interest.
The Saudi Exchange is also promoting Nomu as an accessible platform for smaller and growth-stage companies. Lighter listing requirements and faster time-to-market have encouraged increased activity on the junior market.
Despite a few weak post-listing performances, the broader IPO outlook remains strong, underpinned by high retail participation, sovereign support, and a shift in investor appetite toward defensive and tech-enabled sectors.
As the Kingdom pursues its ambitions to become a regional investment hub, the IPO pipeline is expected to remain robust well into 2026, with further announcements likely across logistics, healthcare, renewable energy, and consumer sectors.

 

IMD Breathwork and The Man Cave Project Collaborate for Men’s Mental Health Month with Free Transformational Breathwork Experience at The Heal Hub

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Sahfy Sahfy
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IMD Breathwork and The Man Cave Project Collaborate for Men’s Mental Health Month with Free Transformational Breathwork Experience at The Heal Hub
IMD Breathwork and The Man Cave Project Collaborate for Men’s Mental Health Month with Free Transformational Breathwork Experience at The Heal Hub

In honour of Men’s Mental Health Month, IMD Breathwork is partnering with The Man Cave Project to host a free breathwork experience this Sunday evening at 7:30pm at The Heal Hub to support men’s emotional wellbeing and mental resilience. This powerful breathwork journey will gently guide participants through the emotional complexities of letting go—of the past, of loss, and of all that has been left behind.

IMD Breathwork and The Man Cave Project Collaborate for Men’s Mental Health Month with Free Transformational Breathwork Experience at The Heal Hub
IMD Breathwork and The Man Cave Project Collaborate for Men’s Mental Health Month with Free Transformational Breathwork Experience at The Heal Hub

The session, titled “The Shift: Release What Is No More,” will be led by Brendon Hansford, founder of IMD Breathwork. It supports the transformation of grief into strength, acceptance, and renewed purpose. Through dynamic breathing, affirmations, and emotional release techniques, individuals confront and release emotions such as shock, pain, guilt, anger, bargaining, and depression. Each breath facilitates a shift from sorrow to understanding, helping to let go of what no longer serves. 

More than just a healing experience, this journey fosters deep personal growth. By courageously facing their loss, participants create space for hope, peace, and new beginnings. Whether the loss is recent or long-held, they will emerge feeling lighter, empowered, and ready to embrace life with resilience and possibility

Brendon Hansford shared: “Men are often taught to bottle things up — but true strength comes from knowing how to release, regulate, and rise. This collaboration with The Man Cave is about normalising emotional wellbeing and giving men the tools to show up for themselves and others in a more empowered way. I know what it’s like to feel helpless and when I discovered the power of breathwork I created IMD Breathwork to enable everyone to breath, heal, transform and thrive.”

This special event forms part of a broader effort to destigmatise mental health conversations among men, creating spaces where vulnerability and healing are not only welcomed but celebrated. 

The event is free and open to the public but spaces are limited. Participants must register in advance via www.themancaveproject.com

CorroHealth Makes Strategic Investment in Gulf Capital’s SANTECHTURE, Infusing CorroHealth AI Capabilities into SANTECHTURE RCM Products Throughout GCC Region

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شمس سيف
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CorroHealth Makes Strategic Investment in Gulf Capital’s SANTECHTURE, Infusing CorroHealth AI Capabilities into SANTECHTURE RCM Products Throughout GCC Region
CorroHealth Makes Strategic Investment in Gulf Capital’s SANTECHTURE, Infusing CorroHealth AI Capabilities into SANTECHTURE RCM Products Throughout GCC Region

Gulf Capital, one of the largest private equity firms investing from the GCC to the rest of Asia, announced today that global healthcare technology company CorroHealth has made a strategic investment into one of its portfolio companies, Santechture, a Dubai based pioneering revenue cycle management (RCM) intelligent technology solutions provider.

The deal brings together the industry-leading AI capabilities of CorroHealth with the advanced RCM solutions of SANTECHTURE, equipping SANTECHTURE healthcare clients across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region with powerful new technology to maximize ROI.

The investment formalizes what has been a productive working relationship between the two companies. Over the past two years, CorroHealth and SANTECHTURE have successfully completed multiple proofs of concept for SANTCEHTURE clients. In January, SANTECHTURE and CorroHealth jointly hosted the Arab Health reception focused on AI and Revenue Cycle Management (RCM) Innovation.

SANTECHTURE, which is backed by leading institutional investors Gulf Capital and Shorooq Partners, has seen a phenomenal increase in demand for its advanced deep tech RCM solutions in the GGC and across regional markets, and this partnership will support yet another leap ahead in advancing innovation and value creation.

CorroHealth CEO Pat Leonard said, “This is an exciting step forward for CorroHealth, as we combine our technological capabilities with a local company based in the GCC region. CorroHealth joining forces with SANTECHTURE brings the best of both worlds to provide clients in the region with unsurpassed RCM capabilities to protect hospitals’ bottom lines and help to ensure their financial future.”

SANTECHTURE Founder and CEO Anas Batikhi said, “The pairing of SANTECHTURE’s unique leading-edge solutions with CorroHealth’s AI driven innovations in the RCM technology space is truly unrivalled. We are especially thrilled to be cementing further our working relationship with CorroHealth and leading the intelligent automation drive to support our clients and partners with their RCM digital transformation journey, delivering on cost reduction and improved revenue outcomes.”

Gulf Capital Managing Director Mohammad Madani added, “We are proud to have been early backers of SANTECHTURE and to now support this landmark partnership between SANTECHTURE’s and CorroHealth. This strategic investment is a strong validation of SANTECHTURE’s leadership in intelligent RCM solutions across the GCC and marks a pivotal milestone in its growth journey. We are confident this collaboration will unlock significant value for healthcare providers in the region.”

Bilal Mushtaq, MD, CorroHealth’s Executive Vice President of Global Growth and Strategy for GCC market expansion said “This strategic investment and partnership marks a pivotal step forward in our growth strategy, reinforcing our commitment to innovation and delivering greater value to a new market. This is not just a collaboration but a shared vision to forge a new path towards providing excellence in revenue cycle management”

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