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Arabian Company for Agricultural and Industrial Investment Announces Final Offer Price of Its Initial Public Offering

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Sahfy Sahfy
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Arabian Company for Agricultural and Industrial Investment Announces Final Offer Price of Its Initial Public Offering
Arabian Company for Agricultural and Industrial Investment Announces Final Offer Price of Its Initial Public Offering

Arabian Company for Agricultural and Industrial Investment (the “Company” or “Entaj”), one of the leading poultry brands in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (the “Kingdom”), announces the successful completion of the book-building process for institutional investors (“Participating Parties”) and the final offer price (the “Final Offer Price”) for the Company’s initial public offering (the “IPO” or “Offering”).

The Final Offer Price for the Offering has been set at SAR 50 per share, which is at the top end of the previously announced price range for the IPO, implying a market capitalization of SAR 1.5 billion (approximately USD 400 million) at listing. The books were covered within hours of opening and the orders recorded during the institutional book-building exceeded SAR 93 billion (approximately more than USD 25 billion), representing a coverage of 208.4 times.

The subscription period for individual investors will commence on Wednesday, 26 February 2025G (corresponding to 27/08/1446H), and ends at 2:00pm KSA time on Thursday, 27 February 2025G (corresponding to 28/08/1446H).

Offer Details 

  • The Final Offer Price for the Offering has been set at SAR 50 per share, with an implied a market capitalization of SAR 1.5 billion (approximately USD 400 million) at listing.
  • The Offering consist of 9,000,000 ordinary shares (the “Offer Shares”), representing 30% of the Company’s total issued share capital, by way of a sale of existing shares by the Selling Shareholder.
  • 100% of the Offer Shares have been provisionally allocated to the Participating Parties that took part in the institutional book building process. In the event of sufficient demand from retail investors, the Financial Advisor, in coordination with the Company, shall have the right to reduce the number of Offer Shares allocated to Participating Entities to a minimum of eight million, one hundred thousand (8,100,000) ordinary Shares, representing 90% of the Offer Shares. 
  • The Offer Shares will be listed and traded on the Saudi Exchange’s Main Market following the completion of the Offering and listing formalities with both the CMA and the Saudi Exchange.
  • The Company appointed SNB Capital (“SNB Capital”) as the lead manager (“Lead Manager”), financial advisor (“Financial Advisor“), bookrunner (the “Bookrunner“), and underwriter (the “Underwriter“). 
  • SNB Capital, SAB Invest, Al Rajhi Capital, Saudi Fransi Capital Company, Alinma Capital Company, Riyad Capital Company, AlJazira Capital Company, Alistithmar for Financial Securities and Brokerage Company , AlBilad Capital Company, ANB Capital Company, Derayah Financial Company, Yaqeen Capital Company, Alkhabeer Capital Company, GIB Capital Company, and Sahm Capital Financial Company to act as receiving agents (collectively, the “Receiving Agents”) for retail investors.

For more information on the Offering, visit https://ipo.entaj.com/

Dubai Investments Signs 2 Key MOUs as Part of MoIAT’s Regional Industrial Partnership

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Sahfy Sahfy
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Dubai Investments Signs 2 Key MOUs as Part of MoIAT’s Regional Industrial Partnership
Dubai Investments Signs 2 Key MOUs as Part of MoIAT’s Regional Industrial Partnership

Dubai Investments, a leading diversified investment company listed on the Dubai Financial Market (DFM), announced that its subsidiaries, GlobalPharma and Emirates Float Glass (EFG), have signed strategic Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) during the 5th Higher Committee Meeting of the Integrated Industrial Partnership for Sustainable Economic Development, held in Doha, Qatar. These agreements, supported by MoIAT (Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology), align with regional efforts to accelerate industrial growth, enhance economic collaboration, and drive sustainable development across key sectors.

The meeting, attended by industry ministers from the UAE, Egypt, Jordan, Bahrain, Morocco, Qatar, and Turkey marked a significant milestone, further expanding cross-border cooperation and investment.

Signing the MOUs on behalf of Dubai Investments, Mohammed Saeed Al Raqbani, General Manager, Dubai Investments Industries and Masharie, said, “The signing of these MOUs reflects Dubai Investments’ commitment to fostering industrial integration, strengthening regional supply chains, and driving sustainable economic development. By leveraging the expertise and capabilities of the Group’s subsidiaries, we are not only contributing to the region’s industrial growth but also enhancing the competitive edge of the Group’s partners across key sectors.”

As part of the expanding pharmaceutical collaboration within the region, GlobalPharma, a leading generics partner and a subsidiary of Dubai Investments, signed an MOU with Morocco’s Zenith Pharma. The agreement focuses on technology transfer, licensing, and local manufacturing of critical medications, including injectable biologics, cholesterol treatments, and diabetes solutions. With an investment exceeding $50 million, the partnership aims to bolster pharmaceutical security and enhance local production capabilities across member countries. The commitment to industrial integration was further recognized during the event, as GlobalPharma was honored by the attending ministers for its significant contributions to pharmaceutical research and development within the partnership.

In a move to reinforce industrial cooperation in the glass manufacturing sector, Emirates Float Glass (EFG), a well-known global leader in the float glass industry and a wholly owned subsidiary of Dubai Investments, signed an MOU to supply high-quality float glass to a regional manufacturing company specializing in glass and silver mirror production. This agreement strengthens the industrial integration partnership between the UAE and Bahrain, supporting manufacturing efficiency and raw material supply within the sector. Under the terms of the MOU, EFG will leverage its advanced production capabilities to ensure a steady and high-quality supply of glass, aligning with broader efforts to enhance regional supply chains and industrial self-sufficiency.

Invest Bank Drives Ongoing Transformation Agenda with Strategic Leadership Appointments

By
شمس سيف
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Invest Bank Drives Ongoing Transformation Agenda with Strategic Leadership Appointments
Invest Bank Drives Ongoing Transformation Agenda with Strategic Leadership Appointments

 Invest Bank announced the appointment of four senior leaders to head its core departments, marking a significant step in the bank’s transformation journey. The strategic appointments across Corporate Affairs & Marketing, Retail, Digital, and Operations divisions reflect the bank’s commitment to delivering next-generation banking solutions while strengthening its position in Sharjah’s growing financial ecosystem.

This reorganization supports Invest Bank’s vision of combining deep local insights with innovative capabilities to create enhanced value for customers and communities across the United Arab Emirates. The appointments come as part of the bank’s broader strategy to build an agile, digital-first organization that sets new benchmarks in customer-centric banking.

“This transformation marks a pivotal moment in Invest Bank’s evolution,” said Edris Al Rafi, Invest Bank’s Chief Executive Officer. “We are creating an agile organization while also integrating advanced digital capabilities that will set new standards, reimagining the future of banking in the region. These appointments strengthen our leadership team, driving scale and technology-enabled solutions for enhancing operational excellence while prioritizing customer value. Positioning us to deliver secure, personalized services that meet the sophisticated needs of our customers while contributing to Sharjah’s growing financial ecosystem.” 

  • Humaida Al Khalsan, joins as Head of Corporate Affairs & Marketing, leading the bank’s strategic communications and brand evolution while focusing on strengthening stakeholder relationships across the UAE’s dynamic financial landscape. 
  • Venkatesh Srikantan, assumes the role of Head of Retail Banking, leading the transformation of our retail banking division to deliver innovative, customer-first solutions that set new standards in personal banking excellence. 
  • Brian Jamieson, takes charge as Head of Digital, driving the bank’s digital transformation agenda to create seamless, integrated banking experiences that anticipate and exceed customer expectations. 
  • Krishnakumar Venkatraman, steps in as Head of Operations, orchestrating operational excellence through advanced technology integration and process optimization to ensure superior service delivery.

These appointments are part of a broader reorganization to create a dynamic and agile organizational structure that will revolutionize the bank’s operation, enhance its digital capabilities, and foster a stronger connection with the Sharjah community and UAE. 

Invest Bank’s transformation is one of the strategic priorities defined by its new CEO, Edris Al Rafi, who joined the bank in September 2024.  

Edris said, “In an era where banking differentiation has become increasingly crucial, Invest Bank’s transformation strategy directly addresses the growing demand for personalized, efficient banking services. The initiative represents a fundamental reimagining of customer experience through a further agile, customer-centric model. We are creating an institution capable of responding swiftly to market changes and customer needs through simplified organizational frameworks. This transformation integrates advanced technology across all our services while maintaining the personal touch that has long been the bank’s hallmark.”

Invest Bank’s strategic priorities:

  • Customer excellence & innovation: Implementing next-generation banking solutions that combine technological innovation with personalized services.
  • Digital transformation: Accelerating digital capabilities across all touchpoints to create seamless, integrated banking experiences.
  • Enhanced efficiency: Optimizing processes and systems to deliver faster, more reliable services.
  • Community impact: Strengthening our role in Sharjah’s economic development through targeted financial solutions and community engagement.

The newly appointed leaders bring extensive global and regional experience to Invest Bank. Their collective expertise will drive the bank’s vision of delivering personalized, value-driven solutions that resonate with customers’ evolving needs and preferences while maintaining strong connections with the communities it serves and setting new standards for banking excellence in Sharjah and across the UAE.

Qme Closes $3 Million Seed Round Led by AHOY to Advance AI-Driven Customer Journeys in MENA

By
شمس سيف
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Qme Closes $3 Million Seed Round Led by AHOY to Advance AI-Driven Customer Journeys in MENA
Qme Closes $3 Million Seed Round Led by AHOY to Advance AI-Driven Customer Journeys in MENA

 Qme, an emerging B2B SaaS startup based in Egypt, has raised $3 million in a seed funding round led by AHOY, a multisector technology company, along with a group of angel investors from the GCC.

Qme is an AI-driven platform addressing a critical issue in MENA, where inefficient queuing systems and outdated appointment booking methods cause individuals to lose an average of six months of their lives standing in line. Moreover, the reliance on phone bookings, which account for 92% of appointments in key sectors, leads to a no-show rate of 31%, creating further inefficiencies.

As a regional tech pioneer aspiring to become a decacorn, AHOY provides advanced solutions in logistics, aviation, and traffic management. Through this collaboration, Qme will gain access to cutting-edge technology and extensive market expertise.

“Our partnership with AHOY is a major milestone, as it strengthens our ability to optimize movement in dynamic, real-world scenarios while transforming customer experiences. AHOY’s operational excellence and robust tech stack are invaluable as we scale in vibrant markets,” said Maged Negm, CEO and Co-Founder of Qme. “I’m super excited to have Jamil Shinawi, AHOY’s CEO, joining Qme Advisors Committee. Our partnership with AHOY marks a pivotal moment in our journey.”

Since its commercial launch in Q4 2023, Qme has made remarkable strides. The company has already served over 100,000 customers in the healthcare, banking, and government sectors, reducing waiting times from 116 minutes to just 14 minutes. Qme has also slashed phone booking no-show rates to below 1%, while transitioning paper-based queuing systems to digital alternatives, saving an estimated 50,000 square meters of paper.

“Qme’s platform aligns perfectly with our ethos of reducing friction in everyday processes,” said Jamil Shinawi, CEO and Co-Founder of AHOY. “Their ability to streamline the customer journey resonates with AHOY’s mission of solving real-world inefficiencies through innovation. The collaboration leverages AHOY’s multi-sector expertise and visionary approach to help Qme penetrate complex markets across the GCC and African regions and advance globally.”

Qme is also a part of AHOY’s Startup Builder Initiative, a program that aims to empower 10,000 entrepreneurs and support 30,000 software developers across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region by 2030. The strategic technological framework for the initiative aims to catalyze exponential innovation across critical infrastructure sectors such as transportation, aviation, and smart city development.

The new funding will allow Qme to enhance its technology stack, expand its operational reach, and forge deeper partnerships. Together with AHOY, Qme aims to redefine how businesses and governments interact with customers, paving the way for a future where inefficiencies are a thing of the past.

Saab launches Coast Control Radar

By
شمس سيف
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Saab launches Coast Control Radar
Saab launches Coast Control Radar

Saab will reveal the new Coast Control Radar at the upcoming International Defence Exhibition and Conference (IDEX) in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It is a next generation, phased-array, non-rotating, software defined radar developed in the UAE

The safeguarding of territorial waterways and maritime traffic is increasingly important to the safety and security of both the vessels, national sovereignty and the wider global economy. Saab’s Coast Control Radar contributes to those objectives with a compact, modular design that ensures exceptional performance, including the tracking of smaller vessels in the most demanding coastal environments.

Designed for easy integration into infrastructure such as buildings, towers, and waterway bridges, the Coast Control Radar ensures flexible installation and can offer comprehensive 360-degree coverage. Its modular design minimises installation challenges while also offering routine software upgrades for continued exceptional detection and performance.

“As a world leader in radars, we’re pleased to announce the launch of our Coast Control Radar. As a solution developed by Saab in the UAE, we chose to launch the radar in the Middle East where the safe and reliable transit of maritime waterways is of great importance. The Coast Control Radar can provide nations of similar need with a highly effective means of monitoring these key economic lifelines while contributing to the safety and security of those who sail them,” said Heléne Bittmann, Saab’s UAE managing director.

Some key features of the Coast Control Radar include:

§  Built on superior military antenna/radar technology for dual-use applications;    

§  Non-rotating phased-array design with a compact footprint and modular configuration which allow for up to 360-degree coverage;

§  Advanced detection capabilities for small and fast-moving objects at extended ranges even in harsh environments;

§  Cost-efficient lifecycle with reduced maintenance and high availability

§  Software based for continuous upgrades and a high level of automation software.

Developed at Saab’s research and development facility located in Tawazun Industrial Park in Abu Dhabi, the Coast Control Radar underscores the company’s long-standing commitment to investing in the UAE’s defence and security ecosystem.

Visit Saab at ADNEC’s stand 07/B41 to learn more.

Narrative PR Summit 2025 has just unveiled its speaker lineup and introduced the inaugural Storytellers Award

By
Sahfy Sahfy
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Narrative PR Summit 2025 has just unveiled its speaker lineup and introduced the inaugural Storytellers Award
Narrative PR Summit 2025 has just unveiled its speaker lineup and introduced the inaugural Storytellers Award

The Narrative PR Summit 2025 returns from April 7th–9th in Soma Bay, Red Sea, bringing together government leaders, industry experts, and creative pioneers to explore Egypt’s potential in tourism, investment, and sports. Held under the patronage of key ministries, this premier nation-branding event will feature distinguished speakers, including Sir Mohamed Mansour, Dr. Khaled El Enany, Rawya Mansour, Azza Fahmy, Youssra, and more.

A key highlight this year is the launch of the Storytellers Award, recognizing emerging digital creators who capture Egypt’s evolving identity through film, photography, and multimedia storytelling. The award aims to celebrate podcasters, influencers, and content creators who present a dynamic and modern image of Egypt.

Founded by Lamia Kamel in 2016, the Narrative Summit has been at the forefront of nation branding, merging Egypt’s rich heritage with a forward-thinking vision. The 2025 edition seeks to position Egypt as a global destination and investment hub, fostering innovation and international collaboration.

Inaugural SFA International Sporting Events concludes, with more than 35,000 SFA Expo visitors and over 40,000 Riyadh Marathon participants

By
شمس سيف
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Inaugural SFA International Sporting Events concludes, with more than 35,000 SFA Expo visitors and over 40,000 Riyadh Marathon participants
Inaugural SFA International Sporting Events concludes, with more than 35,000 SFA Expo visitors and over 40,000 Riyadh Marathon participants

 The Saudi Sports for All Federation (SFA) is celebrating record visitor and participant numbers at the inaugural 2025 SFA International Sporting Events, which combined the SFA Expo and the Riyadh Marathon for the first time.

The SFA Expo ran from February 5-7, 2025, held in the JAX District, with the Riyadh Marathon taking place on Saturday, February 8, 2025.

The SFA Expo attracted 35,359 visitors, offering interactive sports zones, fitness classes, health-focused exhibits, and the official bib collection point for the Riyadh Marathon participants. It served as a premier platform for industry professionals, sports enthusiasts, and businesses in the sports, wellness, and fitness industries.

One of the highlights was the Primal Race, a high-intensity functional fitness competition held on Friday, February 7, testing endurance, strength, and agility. Other attractions included panel discussions on sports innovation, AI, and well-being, interactive workout sessions, and a B2B lounge for industry networking.

The 2025 Riyadh Marathon, held on Saturday, February 8, was also a resounding success. An incredible 40,494 participants from 131 countries, including Saudi Arabia, Morocco, Ethiopia, and Kenya, took part, marking a significant increase from the 20,000 runners in 2024. Organized by the Saudi Sports for All Federation (SFA) in collaboration with the Ministry of Sport, the Saudi Arabian Olympic & Paralympic Committee, the Saudi Arabian Athletic Federation, and Amanat AlRiyadh, the event welcomed participants of all ages and abilities, with US$210,000 in cash prizes for elite runners finishing top 10 in the marathon (42km) and top six in the half marathon (21km).

Four races took place in total, with the 10km and family-focused 4km also happening on the day. Runners in each followed a scenic and challenging route across Riyadh before finishing at Kingdom Arena. Among the participants, nearly 67% were Saudi nationals, underscoring the Kingdom’s growing enthusiasm for long-distance running. Additionally, the percentage of female participants is equal to 40% of the total entries.

First-place male and female winners in the elite marathon categories received US$30,000 each, with second and third-place winners earning US$20,000 and US$10,000, respectively. The first-place elite male marathon runner was Kenya’s Kemboi Emmanuel Kipchumba, recording a time of 2 hours 8 minutes, followed by Ethiopia’s Tilahun Abe Gashahun and Muniye Abebaw Dessie. The top elite female was Ethiopia’s Kebede Nestanet Gudeta, with a time of 2 hours 27 minutes, followed by Assefa Asmare Beyene and Amente Sorome Negash, also from Ethiopia.

For the half-marathon, the men’s and women’s winners each received US$5,000, with second and third-place winners taking home US$2,500 and US$2,000, respectively. The first-place elite male finisher was Ethiopia’s Batebo Bereke Nega, with a time of 1 hour 2 minutes, while Kenya’s Melly Vivian Jepkemei was the top elite female, finishing in 1 hour 11 minutes.

HRH Prince Khaled bin Alwaleed bin Talal Al Saud, President of the SFA, said: “The incredible number of attendees for the SFA’s international sporting events, and the significant increase of participation in the Riyadh Marathon, is a testament to the growing culture of health and fitness in Saudi Arabia. This event has not only showcased the Kingdom’s athletic talent but also its commitment to promoting wellness as a national priority.”

Shaima Saleh Al-Husseini, Managing Director of the SFA, said: “The success of this year’s combined events as part of the International Sporting Events highlights the SFA’s dedication to fostering an inclusive and active society. The increased participation in the Riyadh Marathon, particularly among Saudi nationals, and the overwhelming support from our sponsors reflect the positive impact of our initiatives under Vision 2030.”

Among the sponsors and supporters was Saudi Awwal Bank (SAB), serving as the presenting partner of the Riyadh Marathon, with strategic partners ASICS and Tawuniya for both the SFA Expo and marathon, Gatorade and Aquafina are providing refreshments for both the Expo attendees and marathon runners. Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Services Group Company (HMG) offered medical support at the SFA Expo.

For the Riyadh Marathon, partners also included Ford, who provided support cars, with KAFD offering pre-event activations, and MDL bringing DJs to help build the energy. Calo, JP Morgan, and Centrum also gave their support, with Joe & the Juice even creating a Riyadh Marathon drink as supporting partner, with branded staff merchandise. Kudu joined as an official partner to promote the Riyadh Marathon across its 300 branches, and BAE Systems was also an official partner.

Other sponsors and supporting partners for both events included Kayanee, while official partners Huawei provided awards. ASICS outfitted race participants, and JAX District served as venue partner for the SFA Expo. SPIMACO was an official partner for both events, with Delta Sports supporting the SFA Expo specifically.

The SFA looks forward to building on this success in future editions, continuing to inspire the Kingdom’s residents and visitors to lead healthier, more active lives.

AI will dominate Saudi Arabia’s smart city ambitions, says FM technology expert

By
Sahfy Sahfy
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AI will dominate Saudi Arabia’s smart city ambitions, says FM technology expert
AI will dominate Saudi Arabia’s smart city ambitions, says FM technology expert

 With Saudi Arabia’s iconic and innovative giga projects becoming a reality, the kingdom’s real estate landscape is expanding at a phenomenal pace, creating an issue for building managers and an unrivalled opportunity for progressive and technically astute FM companies and professionals. 

Employing advanced technology to operate these futuristic structures will be absolutely essential and as a consequence, facility managers will need to be conversant with how these hi-tech buildings function, in order to optimise efficiency, sustainability and safety.  

In that respect, AI can no longer be considered a far-fetched dream but a necessity to manage expectations and facilitate excellence for these smart projects and indeed the impending rollout of Saudi’s smart cities.

“AI is revolutionising building maintenance by optimising operations, reducing costs, and enhancing the safety and comfort of tenants. With the integration of IoT, machine learning, predictive analytics, and automation, AI can offer a wide range of benefits, that improve the efficiency and effectiveness of building management systems,” said Javeria Aijaz, Managing Director of Middle East-based HITEK, part of the Farnek group of companies.

Her top five tech trends for the Saudi Arabian FM market in 2025, include AI-driven predictive maintenance and operations, the increased demand for smart and green buildings, the rise of digitalisation and smart HSEQ management, the need for connected workforces with IoT and digital tools, as well as the requirement for smart AI-driven sustainability reporting. 

AI-powered systems analyse real-time data from IoT sensors or Building Management Systems (BMS) to predict equipment failures and optimise operations. AI can integrate with building automation systems to control lighting, HVAC, security, and other essential services based on real-time data from sensors, weather forecasts, and occupancy patterns.

“Adopting AI minimises downtime, extends asset life, and reduces operational costs. AI-integrated systems can monitor HVAC systems to predict failures and schedule proactive maintenance. AI-powered sensors can detect drops in indoor air quality, triggering HVAC systems to increase ventilation and ensure that air quality is within a predetermined healthy range, which is particularly important in hospitals and office buildings,” said Aijaz.

Sustainability is integral to the Saudi Vision 2030. Smart technologies optimise energy usage, water consumption, and waste management to align not only with green building standards but also helps to achieve Net Zero targets.

“AI can help to reduce carbon footprints and promotes energy efficiency. Automated lighting and HVAC systems are routinely adjusting based on occupancy levels and real-time environmental conditions,” added Aijaz.

During the construction of Saudi’s giga projects, health and safety issues need AI-based digital tools to revolutionise HSEQ processes by automating compliance tracking, audits, and incident reporting. AI can analyse historical data (e.g., workplace accidents, employee health records, and environmental factors) to predict potential hazards before they occur. By identifying patterns and the associated risk factors, AI can help organisations take preventative action.

“This will enhance safety, environmental monitoring, and regulatory compliance. AI-powered dashboards can monitor workplace safety, environmental metrics, and real-time hazard alerts. AI systems can forecast when and where accidents are most likely to occur based on historical data, environmental conditions, and employee behaviour, enabling proactive measures such as safety training and or equipment inspection,” commented Aijaz.

IoT-enabled devices and digital platforms enhance workforce productivity and safety. Wearables and mobile apps ensure seamless task allocation and real-time communication. Wearable devices embedded with AI can monitor employees’ health and fatigue levels, plus environmental conditions all in real time. These devices can track physiological parameters such as heart rate, temperature, and stress levels to prevent accidents caused by worker fatigue or health issues.

“This increases efficiency, safety, and response times. Mobile workforce management apps can assign tasks dynamically based on location and skill. In high-risk industries like construction or mining, AI-powered wearables can detect signs of heatstroke, excessive fatigue, or abnormal vitals, and trigger alerts to supervisors or medics for immediate intervention,” said Aijaz.

AI-powered analytical tools track energy consumption, water usage, waste management, and carbon emissions in real-time, generating detailed sustainability reports.

“This helps FM companies meet green building standards, reduce their impact on the environment and comply with Saudi regulations. AI systems can provide practical insights to optimise energy consumption and achieve sustainability targets.

“With the rate of growth in smart buildings, added to the rapid advances in technology, it is blatantly clear that AI will revolutionise the Saudi FM market. It is no longer an option for FM professionals, they will need to embrace these trends quickly, otherwise they are going to be left behind,” concluded Aijaz.

With the global events market set to pass $2.5 trillion by 2035, IBTM@ATM offers a brand-new gateway to the business events sector

By
شمس سيف
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With the global events market set to pass $2.5 trillion by 2035, IBTM@ATM offers a brand-new gateway to the business events sector
With the global events market set to pass $2.5 trillion by 2035, IBTM@ATM offers a brand-new gateway to the business events sector
  • The IBTM@ATM Zone at Arabian Travel Market 2025 to address the sustained growth in the business events sector amid significant demand from visitors and exhibitors
  • Bringing together suppliers and buyers, this dedicated zone is designed to empower attendees to unlock strategic connections and data-driven insights
  • The Business Events Stage will host sessions on the future of business travel and events in the Middle East region, cementing ATM as a global hub for networking and collaboration

With the global events industry projected to register a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.8% during the period 2024-35, IBTM@ATM will provide a gateway to the lucrative business events sector throughout the 32nd edition of Arabian Travel Market (ATM), which will take place at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from 28 April to 1 May 2025.

IBTM@ATM has been created in response to stellar growth in the business events industry and significant demand among ATM visitors – more than 7,000 attendees, 1,500 buyers and 400 exhibitors expressed interest in this lucrative sector at last year’s show. Debuting at ATM 2025, this dedicated zone is designed to unlock strategic connections, impactful collaboration and data-driven insights.

In keeping with ATM 2025’s theme, ‘Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity’, IBTM@ATM will bring together suppliers and buyers through scheduled appointments and business exchange sessions. The brand-new Business Events Stage will host a broad range of sessions on the future of business travel, technological innovation, socioeconomic growth and more, cementing ATM’s position as a global hub for networking and collaboration.

Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, said: “This year’s theme of enhanced connectivity is particularly relevant to the evolving business events sector, which thrives on strategic partnerships, knowledge exchange, and innovation. Through IBTM@ATM, we are strengthening our commitment to adding value to our exhibitors and attendees by creating a dynamic community where suppliers and buyers can engage in meaningful networking, business exchange sessions, and a high-impact content programme. By leveraging our unique insights, we aim to facilitate connections and unlock new opportunities that drive long-term growth within this thriving market segment.”

IBTM@ATM will bring together suppliers and buyers from across the business events sector, connecting meeting planners, association buyers, professional conference organisers, incentive buyers, destination management companies (DMCs), corporate event planners, event technology providers, travel agencies and tour operators with a diverse range of convention bureaus, unique venues and hotels, conference facilities, and airline and transport solution providers, amongst others. 

The new zone will also feature the brand-new Business Events Stage, which will host a comprehensive programme focused on the latest trends and developments in the business events field. This year’s sessions will include: How Global Events and Festivals Drive Socio-Economic Growth in partnership with the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA); The State of the Nation: Navigating the Future of Business Travel in the Middle East in partnership with the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA); and Demystifying Technology in Events – The Human Connection vs AI in partnership with Multilem.

According to Allied Market Research, the global events industry looks set to register impressive growth over the coming decade, with the total market value on course to pass $2.5 trillion by 2035. Conferences, trade shows and exhibitions are indispensable for many businesses, offering a vital opportunity to increase their visibility and meet clients and partners face-to-face.

Research shows that corporate events, in particular, continue to support millions of jobs worldwide, delivering a staggering $1.6 trillion in global GDP annually. In Dubai alone, the meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) segment grew by 25% in 2023, making ATM 2025 the ideal launchpad for IBTM@ATM.

Claudia Hall, Exhibition Director, IBTM World, said: “Dubai has firmly established itself as an international hub for business events, in line with the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda, and it’s a pleasure to be joining DWTC’s incredible line-up of industry-leading events through our collaboration with ATM. Together, I believe we can make a significant contribution to the sector by fostering further trade and innovation.”

IBTM@ATM will also welcome an exclusive group of senior-level events industry buyers, as part of its Hosted Buyer Programme, including 50 hosted and 10 association buyers, ensuring high-value meetings and strategic business connections.  

The introduction of IBTM@ATM also follows the recent announcement of the ICCA as the official Business Events Partner for ATM 2025. The ICCA will lead sessions on the evolving landscape of global business events at this year’s show, facilitate the attendance of key international association buyers, and launch an exclusive government meeting ranking report.

The 32nd edition of ATM will bring together professionals and industry leaders from the leisure, MICE, luxury and corporate travel sectors, providing a gateway to networking, knowledge sharing and unlocking business opportunities. In addition to the exhibition, international and regional experts will take to ATM’s Global and Future stages to deliver an extensive conference programme. 

Held in conjunction with DWTC, ATM 2025’s strategic partners include Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), Destination Partner; Emirates, Official Airline Partner; IHG Hotels & Resorts, Official Hotel Partner; and Al Rais Travel, Official DMC Partner.

The latest ATM news stories are available at https://hub.wtm.com/category/press/atm-press-releases/.

DP WORLD ADVANCES FIRST PHASE OF $80 MILLION SOKHNA LOGISTICS PARK

By
Sahfy Sahfy
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DP WORLD ADVANCES FIRST PHASE OF $80 MILLION SOKHNA LOGISTICS PARK
DP WORLD ADVANCES FIRST PHASE OF $80 MILLION SOKHNA LOGISTICS PARK

DP World has reached a major milestone in the development of the Sokhna Logistics Park, with 65% of the first phase now complete. The $80 million, state-of-the-art logistics hub, strategically located in the Suez Canal Economic Zone (SCZONE), is set to enhance Egypt’s logistics infrastructure and position the country as a key regional trade hub.

Spanning 300,000 square meters, the facility is designed to provide cost-effective, integrated supply chain solutions, leveraging DP World’s extensive global network. Scheduled for completion in June 2025, the park will drive efficiency, reduce logistics costs, and strengthen connectivity between Egypt, the Middle East, Africa, and beyond.

Situated just ten kilometres from Sokhna Port, the park offers direct access to Greater Cairo’s key markets and major industrial zones. Its strategic location will enable businesses to reduce operational costs and improve efficiency with streamlined cargo movements.

Built to the highest international standards, the park is designed to support a range of industries, such as agriculture, pharmaceuticals, retail, automotive and textiles. It will feature bonded and non-bonded warehouses, office space and open cargo and container yards, with logistics activities including warehousing, freight forwarding, customs clearing, and value-added services like labelling, coding, sorting, packing and inspection.

Ranjit Ray, Senior Vice President, Economic Zones, MENA region, DP World, says: “We are pleased with the progress made so far and remain focused on completing the first phase within the next few months. The facility will support a wide range of cargo across imports, exports, and transit, and will be integrated with DP World’s operations at Sokhna Port, offering a full range of multi-modal supply chain services, including freight forwarding and logistics solutions. Coupled with access to DP World’s global trade infrastructure network, this will provide cost-effective supply chain solutions for both local and international businesses”.

The new facility has already drawn interest from both local and international markets, including businesses already established in Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) in Dubai, who are looking to expand regionally.

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