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Arab Health to host record international participation as the global consumer healthcare market to reach US$780 billion by 2030

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Sahfy Sahfy
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Arab Health to host record international participation as the global consumer healthcare market to reach US$780 billion by 2030
Arab Health to host record international participation as the global consumer healthcare market to reach US$780 billion by 2030

Arab Health 2025, the Middle East’s largest and most influential healthcare event and congress, will welcome a record-breaking international audience this year, as the latest statistics reveal the global healthcare market will be worth US$780 billion by 2030.

According to insights from Verified Market Research, the research and consulting specialists, the consumer healthcare market size was valued at US$ 360 Billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 780 Billion By 2030, growing at a CAGR of 8.8% during the forecast period 2024 to 2030.

Ross Williams, Group Event Director, Informa Markets, commented: “In the last five decades, Arab Health has grown alongside the incredible expansion of the global healthcare market, evolving from a regional exhibition to a pivotal event on the international stage. With the anticipated market growth, Arab Health, more than ever, has an integral role in facilitating global business and addressing the latest healthcare trends worldwide.

“With participants from over 180 countries expected, the 2025 edition underscores how Arab Health remains at the heart of this dynamic industry, fostering collaboration and innovation that drives healthcare advancement globally. As the sector continues to evolve, Arab Health stands as a vital platform for connecting ideas, technologies, and people shaping the future of healthcare.”

This year, Arab Health, which takes place at the Dubai World Trade Centre from 27 – 30 January, will host over 40 country pavilions, and more than 180 countries will participate. Making their country pavilion debut in 2025, Morocco and Latvia will be joined by long-standing participants, the United Kingdom and Saudi Arabia, which will increase their presence significantly with additional floor space. Other country pavilions for the 2025 edition include the USA, China, India, Singapore and Taiwan, amongst others.

This year will also see a range of first-time international exhibitors, including Daigo, Fapomed, Global Medical Technology, Global Pharma Healthcare, Levity Products, Mark Ortho Care and more, who will take up residence in the Al Mustaqbal Hall, which is being utilised for the time as part of the new exhibitor zone.

In contrast, and celebrating more than 20 years of attending Arab Health, The Association of British HealthTech Industries (ABHI) will once again participate in the event with a delegation of UK HealthTech businesses, hospital groups, regional accelerators, government partners, and healthcare leaders.

Michelle Michelucci, Head of International Events for ABHI, said: “ABHI runs a portfolio of UK Pavilions at over 15 key global trade shows, but none match the scale and significance of Arab Health.

“During our 20-year tenure at Arab Health, we’ve witnessed a significant evolution in the healthcare industry, driven by technological integration and international collaboration fostered at the event. The UAE and the wider Middle East region have grown significantly, with the healthcare sector expanding to meet the demands of a burgeoning population and increasing healthcare needs. 

“Arab Health has played a crucial role in driving this transformation by facilitating extensive knowledge exchange among global healthcare leaders and showcasing cutting-edge technologies shaping the future of healthcare delivery in the region and beyond.”

The Arab Health Congress, held under the patronage of the Ministry of Health and Prevention, also returns this year, featuring nine continuing medical education (CME) conferences and three Healthcare Business Forums, which will be led by an international roster of over 250 healthcare professionals addressing the latest industry trends via more than 110 sessions over four days. 

The main features of Arab Health’s 50th-anniversary edition include the debut of the World of Wellness and the Healthcare ESG conferences, The Smart Hospital and Interoperability Zone, powered by Cityscape, which will offer visitors an immersive experience of the future of healthcare. The Transformation Zone will feature talks, product showcases, and the popular Innov8 Start-up competition. The Future Health Summit will return, bringing together global experts to address the topic of AI in action: Transforming Healthcare Delivery.

Arab Health 2025 will be supported by various government entities, including the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention, the Dubai Health Authority, the Department of Health, and the Dubai Healthcare City Authority. 

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

Dr Rania Al-Mashat Discusses with Counselor Amal Ammar Joint Efforts to Implement the National Strategy for Women’s Empowerment 2030

By
شمس سيف
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Dr. Rania Al-Mashat DISCUSSES WITH HEAD OF THE NATIONAL COUNCIL FOR WOMEN JOINT EFFORTS TO IMPLEMENT THE NATIONAL STRATEGY FOR WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT 2030 AND THE "CLOSING THE GENDER GAP ACCELERATOR"
Dr. Rania Al-Mashat DISCUSSES WITH HEAD OF THE NATIONAL COUNCIL FOR WOMEN JOINT EFFORTS TO IMPLEMENT THE NATIONAL STRATEGY FOR WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT 2030 AND THE "CLOSING THE GENDER GAP ACCELERATOR"
  • Dr. Rania Al-Mashat: Economic Empowerment of Women is a Fundamental Pillar for Achieving Economic Development and Employment
  • Presidential Directives to Enhance and Create a Favorable Work Environment for Women in Government Institutions
  • Counselor Amal Ammar: The State is Keen on Launching Strategies, Initiatives, and Community Programs Supporting Women

H.E. Dr. Rania A. Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation, met with Counselor Amal Ammar, Head of the National Council for Women, to discuss efforts to empower Egyptian women.

At the beginning of the meeting, H.E. Dr. Al-Mashat congratulated Counselor Amal Ammar on her appointment as the Head of the National Council for Women, emphasizing that the issue of empowering women economically, socially, and politically is a core aspect of all of Egypt’s vision’s axes and programs. This is in line with the directives of H.E. President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and the implementation of the objectives of the National Strategy for the Empowerment of Egyptian Women 2030.

H.E. Dr. Al-Mashat pointed out the state’s support for women through various initiatives, including the “Hayah Karima” initiative, which plays a vital role in improving the living conditions of rural women by providing services such as education, healthcare, sanitation, adequate housing, job opportunities, and others. She noted that this initiative is one of the most humanitarian projects globally, aiming to reduce multidimensional poverty and address developmental gaps between governorates.

Governorates in Upper Egypt account for 68% of the allocations in the first phase, with beneficiaries from these areas making up 61% of the total beneficiaries.

The project aligns with all goals of the National Human Rights Strategy, with more than 70% of investments directed toward human development in the first phase.

The Minister of Planning and International Cooperation explained that the national project for developing the Egyptian family enhances efforts to improve the status of women and elevate the quality of life for Egyptian families through its comprehensive axes.

The project aims to economically empower women by providing financial and non-financial services for women-led projects and training programs for employment.

H.E. Minister Al-Mashat emphasized that the merger of the Ministry of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation has contributed to strengthening efforts for the successful implementation of this project at the national level, in coordination with international partnerships and multilateral cooperation, all of which are essential for the continued optimal implementation of the project and preserving the gains made over the past three years.

The Ministry allocated around 2 billion EGP for the project, collaborating with implementing agencies and partners, including the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Social Solidarity, and the National Council for Women.

The project has achieved significant progress, particularly in controlling population growth rates and empowering women economically.

H.E. Dr. Al-Mashat noted that initiatives addressing climate change have not overlooked women’s roles. She mentioned the allocation of a category for women’s development projects within the National Initiative for Green Smart Projects.

The Minister also highlighted the establishment of a category for government excellence awards under the title “Equality of Opportunities and Women’s Empowerment,” in line with the directives of H.E. President El-Sisi, aimed at enhancing and creating a favorable work environment for women in government institutions.

Minister Al-Mashat also affirmed that women’s empowerment is a key focus in cooperation with multilateral and bilateral development partners. Many programs are being implemented to directly achieve women’s empowerment, and gender equality is incorporated as a subgoal in various development projects, including water, agricultural, and rural development. Several partnerships, such as the Economic and Social Empowerment Program for Women with USAID and the Closing the Gender Gap Accelerator with the World Economic Forum, are pivotal in this regard.

For her part, Counselor Amal Ammar commended the efforts of the Ministry of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation in empowering women. She mentioned the cooperation between the Council and the Ministry on several successful programs aimed at empowering Egyptian women within the framework of achieving sustainable development goals.
She explained that the Council is continuing its diligent efforts to make tangible progress in women’s empowerment across its various dimensions.

Counselor Amal Ammar emphasized that women are now experiencing their golden era under political leadership that supports and believes in the importance of women’s empowerment. She highlighted the state’s ongoing efforts to enhance equality and citizenship rights within the framework of the new republic, with Egyptian women having gained unprecedented and unique accomplishments over the past years. The Egyptian government is committed to launching strategies, initiatives, and community programs that support women, contributing to the development of their skills and integrating them as active and leading figures in sustainable development plans, as well as ensuring the preservation of these gains through supportive legislative and institutional frameworks that enhance their role in all sectors.

She also pointed to the “Tamkeen” program launched by the National Council for Women in partnership with the UN, the European Union, the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation, the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation, and the Ministry of Planning. The program aims to strengthen institutional and individual capacities for women and girls, raise awareness of issues related to women’s empowerment, and highlight the state’s protection services for women. She also noted financial inclusion initiatives, service automation, digital transformation, and various training programs to build capacity.

Counselor Ammar expressed her appreciation for the continued inclusion of a component dedicated to women’s and girls’ empowerment in the United Nations Partnership Strategy for 2023-2027. She stressed the importance of supporting national strategies and plans for women and girls’ empowerment, particularly economic empowerment. She emphasized the need to focus on this area in the coming period, alongside addressing the impacts of climate change, which would support sustainable development and increase women’s contributions to the Egyptian economy.

Counselor Ammar also discussed the importance of working on state-specific indicators related to women to reflect the progress of women’s empowerment on the ground, expressing her interest in collaborating with all ministries to further empower women in all sectors in the upcoming period.

The two sides also discussed the developments of the Closing the Gender Gap Accelerator launched by the Ministry of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation, the National Council for Women, in partnership with the World Economic Forum, the private sector, and international organizations. The initiative aims to create a model of partnership between the government, private sector, international organizations, civil society, and academia to strengthen efforts for women’s economic empowerment. They discussed how to enhance the program in the upcoming period by involving more companies and creating incentives for them to join the initiative, as well as progressively grading companies based on their policies that serve the empowerment and development of women.

Al-Zeyoudi meets with the Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Economy during an official visit to Mexico City

By
شمس سيف
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Al-Zeyoudi meets with the Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Economy during an official visit to Mexico City
Al-Zeyoudi meets with the Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Economy during an official visit to Mexico City
  • The UAE and Mexico continue to strengthen trade and investment ties, exploring new opportunities for private-sector collaboration
  • HE Al Zeyoudi: “The UAE and Mexico are committed to elevating bilateral relations to new heights, aligned with the ambitious development goals of both nations.”
  • Non-oil trade between the UAE and Mexico continues its upward trajectory, reaching US$2.2 billion in the first ten months of 2024, a 1% increase compared to the same period in 2023.

The United Arab Emirates and Mexico are advancing their trade and investment relations, focusing on fostering partnerships between their private sectors and business communities. During an official visit to the capital, Mexico City, His Excellency Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade, discussed with senior Mexican officials and business leaders opportunities to increase collaboration and build new partnerships between the two countries.

In the presence of His Excellency Salem Rashid Al Owais, the UAE Ambassador to Mexico, HE Al Zeyoudi held bilateral meetings with His Excellency Juan Ramon de Lafuente, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and His Excellency Marcelo Ebrard Casaubon, Minister of Economy.

During the meetings, prospects for increased cooperation in sectors of mutual interest were discussed, along with strategies to further increase non-oil trade, which has seen sustained growth between the two countries in recent years. In 2023, non-oil trade between the UAE and Mexico increased by 20.8% to US$2.6 billion, compared to US$2.1 billion in 2022. The positive trajectory continued in the first ten months of 2024, rising to US$2.2 billion, a 1% increase compared to the same period in 2023.

In his meeting with the Mexican Minister of Economy, HE Al Zeyoudi discussed how to encourage and support private-sector partnerships between the two countries in sectors such as agriculture, industry, services, infrastructure, and tourism. They also discussed strengthening supply chains to serve their mutual interests and support joint economic growth.

HE Al Zeyoudi emphasized the shared commitment between the UAE and Mexico to continue strengthening trade and investment flows in line with the ambitious economic goals of both nations and highlighted the potential for economic integration through the establishment of a trade and investment corridor. HE Al Zeyoudi said: “The continuous growth in non-oil trade between the UAE and Mexico in recent years underscores the vast potential for new partnerships between our business communities, opening the door to further opportunities for collaboration across numerous sectors that will drive mutual prosperity.”

During the visit, HE Al-Zeyoudi met with a group of senior officials in Mexico, including Francisco Cervantes, President of the Confederation of Industrial Chambers of Mexico (CONCAMIN). The two sides explored opportunities to strengthen private sector relations and partnerships that would further enhance the growing trade and investment ties between the two countries.

HE Al Zeyoudi also met with José de Jesús Rodríguez Cárdenas, President of the National Chamber of Commerce, Services, and Tourism, to discuss potential areas of collaboration, attractive investment opportunities in each country, and ways to support and facilitate businesses seeking to expand into both markets.

Additionally, HE Al Zeyoudi held meetings with numerous businessmen and representatives from leading Mexican companies to identify avenues for deeper economic cooperation.

ADGM Publishes New Employment Regulations

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شمس سيف
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ADGM Publishes New Employment Regulations
ADGM Publishes New Employment Regulations

The Registration Authority (RA) of the international financial centre of Abu Dhabi – ADGM, has published the Employment Regulations 2024 (the “New Employment Regulations”), which reflect global changes in workplace practices, and provide greater clarity to employers and employees with respect to their rights and obligations. Such changes aim to promote and foster best employment practices in ADGM.

Some of the key changes in the New Employment Regulations are as follows:

  • Amending the definition of ‘employee’ to enable employers to hire remote employees and to allow for more flexible working arrangements.
  • Clarifying ambiguities related to employee entitlements, including part-time employees.
  • Clarifying certain requirements regarding obtaining and cancelling an employee’s work permit and visa.
  • Expanding obligations and responsibilities related to discrimination and victimisation in the workplace.

Repealing the existing Employment Regulations 2019, the New Employment Regulations will become effective on 1st April 2025, thereby granting employers sufficient time to align their internal policies, employment contracts and other employment-related matters with the requirements provided under the New Employment Regulations.

Commenting on the New Employment Regulations, Hamad Sayah Al Mazrouei, CEO of ADGM Registration Authority said, “We are pleased to announce the publication of the New Employment Regulations, which reflect our strong commitment to enhancing our ecosystem and ensuring the best regulatory frameworks and favourable conditions for both companies and employees alike. These new regulations come as we continue to expand, grow, and promote innovation in work systems. They will provide the necessary information to the business community while ensuring the protection and stability required for all parties. At ADGM, we are dedicated to strengthening our regulatory frameworks and providing the necessary support and guidance to our community to ensure the sustainability of success and excellence.”

The enacted version of the New Employment Regulations issued by ADGM is publicly available and can be viewed here: Employment Regulations 2024.

ECSSR to Hold Second Mufakiru Al Emarat Forum on January 28

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شمس سيف
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The Emirates Center for Strategic Studies and Research (ECSSR) is preparing to hold the second Mufakiru Al Emarat Forum on January 28, 2025. This year’s theme, ‘Creative National Insights’, convenes thought leaders, academics and experts from a diverse array of disciplines to explore national priorities and provide recommendations aligned with the UAE’s strategic goals.

Taking place at The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort – Abu Dhabi, the Forum is a key intellectual platform within the Mufakiru Al Emarat project, initiated by the ECSSR in January 2022 with the endorsement of His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs. The Forum aims to invest in Emirati minds, harness their knowledge to shape the future and support the UAE’s comprehensive development. It also seeks to strengthen scientific research endeavors, while promoting Emirati experts, academics and innovators nationally and globally, optimizing their contribution to growth and sustainable development, while enhancing the UAE’s soft power.

This year’s theme reflects the UAE leadership’s drive to promote innovation and creativity in all areas, transforming creative ideas into policies and programs that offer practical solutions to current and future challenges. The overall aim is to ensure the UAE retains its leading position among countries pro-actively shaping the future, rather than simply being affected by it.

A press conference will be held to introduce the Forum’s main topics, speakers, dialogues and interactive sessions. An overview of the Forum will also be provided, highlighting its key role in developing creative insights to serve the UAE’s future ambitions.

The Forum’s successful inaugural edition was held last February under the theme ‘Contributing and Engaging’, which brought together UAE ministers, officials, decision-makers and intellectuals, exploring vital issues, including education, AI, advanced technology, national identity, sustainability and the future economy.

LDC backs fast-growing AdTech firm Precise TV for US expansion with £21m minority investment

By
Sahfy Sahfy
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LDC backs fast-growing AdTech firm Precise TV for US expansion with £21m minority investment
LDC backs fast-growing AdTech firm Precise TV for US expansion with £21m minority investment

LDC, the private equity investor which is part of Lloyds Banking Group, has made a £21m minority investment in Precise TV, the contextual video AdTech platform driving business outcomes for brands, to support its international expansion.

Precise TV was founded in 2015 and operates globally through its teams in London, Los Angeles and New York, as well as its offices in Sydney, Australia and Salzburg, Austria. The award-winning contextual intelligence platform leverages a combination of proprietary machine learning models to connect brands and agencies to the video moments that matter across YouTube, Shorts, Facebook, TikTok, Connected TV and Mobile Gaming, driving lower funnel conversions for advertisers looking to limit media wastage.

Its proprietary tech platform uses AI to analyse millions of online videos, licensed data sources and its own proprietary panel data to build contextualised advertising campaigns for its clients, which includes global business and consumer brands such as LEGO, Moose Toys, Warner Bros, Paramount, Breville, Salesforce and ASICS.

Precise TV is Trustworthy Accountability Group (TAG) certified, and was named a 2024 Google Premier Partner after meeting the rigorous requirements of the recently revamped Google Partners program. Precise TV is also the world’s first and leading KidSafe COPPA certified YouTube advertising platform.

Following LDC’s investment, the business plans to continue to build its AI capabilities and scale its presence in the US, which currently accounts for over half of revenues, as well as diversifying further into other markets, such as gaming.

LDC is backing Precise TV’s existing management team, led by co-founders and co-CEOs Nadav Shmuel and Christian Dankl, Chief Commercial Officer Denis Crushell and Chief Technology Officer Peter Stöckl.

The transaction was led by David Andrews, Dan Gluckman and Eliza Tracey in LDC’s London office. David and Dan will both join the board as Non-Executive Directors, alongside former Google executive Jen Thompson who joins as a board advisor and brings more than 18 years’ experience.

Nadav Shmuel, co-CEO of Precise TV, said: “This is an important milestone for the business. Since we founded the company almost a decade ago, we’ve focused on building the best contextualised advertising tech stack in the market for our clients. With LDC’s support, we can continue investing to stay ahead of the curve whilst taking our proposition to a wider market, with a particular focus on the US where we see a significant growth opportunity.”

Shmuel added: “LDC’s track record in backing technology and media businesses really stood out for us, and we’ve already built an excellent relationship with David, Dan, Eliza and the team at LDC. They clearly understand the scale of the opportunity available to us and we can’t wait to get started.”

Christian Dankl, co-CEO of Precise TV, said: “Demand for our proprietary offering has increased rapidly in recent years with the widespread decline of cookie-based advertising and the growth of video streaming platforms led by YouTube. We now have more resources to invest and bolster our leading role driving bottom-line business outcomes for brands through contextual video advertising.”

David Andrews, Partner at LDC, said: “In under 10 years, Nadav, Christian and the entire management team at Precise TV have built a highly distinctive and scalable proposition in the AdTech market which has underpinned the firm’s strong growth to date. Their entrepreneurialism and ambition is impressive and just the type of management team we love to back. With demand for contextualised advertising solutions set to continue growing, this is the perfect time to invest for scale.”

LDC has a successful track record in the media sector. In the last decade, the firm has invested £405m into fast-growing businesses across sub-sectors from film, TV and broadcast to advertising, PR, marketing, events and gaming. This includes backing full-service digital marketing company Croud in 2019 to help fund its US expansion, helping the firm grow its US business to a third of revenues within its five-year partnership.

LDC was advised by JEGI CLARITY (corporate finance), Squire Patton Boggs (legal), BDO (financial and tax due diligence), PwC Strategy& (commercial due diligence) and EY (tax).

Precise TV was advised by SI Partners (corporate finance) and Keystone Law (legal).

International Defence Conference 2025 to Kick Off on 16 February Alongside IDEX and NAVDEX

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Sahfy Sahfy
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International Defence Conference 2025 to Kick Off on 16 February Alongside IDEX and NAVDEX
International Defence Conference 2025 to Kick Off on 16 February Alongside IDEX and NAVDEX

The International Defence Conference (IDC) 2025 will take place on 16 February under the theme “Defence Reimagined: Innovation, Integration and Resilience”, coinciding with the International Defence Exhibition and Conference (IDEX) and Naval Defence & Maritime Security Exhibition (NAVDEX) 2025, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE President and Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces.

Organized by ADNEC Group in strategic partnership with the Ministry of Defense and in collaboration with the Tawazun Council, IDC serves as a global platform bringing together key decision makers, experts, and leaders from around the world. The event aims to promote collaboration among nations, institutions, and defence companies by discussing key global issues and threats and presenting innovative solutions to overcome future challenges.

The conference will feature three key sessions including “Global Disruptions and Defence Preparedness: Mitigating Threats to Critical Supply Chains,” “Disinformation and Influence Operations: The Weaponization of Information in Modern Conflicts,” and “Space: The New Arena for Defense and Security.”

The first session will begin with an opening address that discusses the importance of fostering international collaboration and developing innovative defense solutions to address global challenges. It will explore the unprecedented challenges posed by global disruptions, including geopolitical tensions, natural disasters, cyberattacks, and pandemics.

Furthermore, the speech will focus on enhancing the resilience of critical supply chains for defense and national security through collaboration between governments and various sectors. The role of technological innovations introduced by startups in strengthening the stability of the supply chains will also be discussed.

The first session will examine the current challenges facing global supply chains and the proactive measures required to anticipate and manage disruptions effectively. It will also highlight the role of the defense sector in safeguarding critical supply chains, the importance of technological innovation and startups in strengthening defense and national security, strategies for building collaborative international networks to reduce risks, and lessons learned from recent global supply chain crises.

Titled “Disinformation and Influence Operations: The Weaponization of Information in Modern Conflicts,” the second session will explore tactics of misinformation, the role of artificial intelligence in developing disinformation campaigns, and their impact on the stability of societies and political systems in an era where technology intersects with politics, making information a powerful tool of conflict.

The session will also review various methods of misinformation used by states and non-governmental entities, the impact of artificial intelligence and deepfakes on disinformation campaigns, the ethical dimensions of using information as a weapon, the role of social media platforms in spreading misinformation, and strategies for detecting and countering disinformation. It will also examine the importance of collaboration between governments, the private sector, and civil society organizations to build a resilient information environment.

The third session, titled “Space: The New Arena for Defense and Security”, will address the growing importance of space in defense and modern warfare. The session will focus on the increasing attention given to the threats and opportunities in this crowded, competitive, and contested domain, as the world is currently experiencing rapid changes in the strategic space environment, marked by a significant rise in satellite launches and the use of commercial satellites in actual combat operations.

The session will outline the importance of developing new technologies for Space Situational Awareness (SSA), missile defense, secure satellite communications, and enhancing resilient space assets. In contrast, counter-space capabilities, designed to disrupt and penetrate the use of space services, pose significant threats to military operations. The session will also delve into the importance of nations establishing space forces, leadership, strategies, policies, and alliances.

The International Defense Conference will discuss key current issues related to space and defense, focusing on emerging threats to space systems, opportunities to enhance resilience, developments in new technologies, the crucial role of the private sector, and the need for space alliances.

Featuring high-level international participation, IDC will host prominent international figures in defense, economics, and technology, including Dr. Yossi Sheffi, Director of the MIT Center for Transportation and Logistics, along with senior military leaders from various nations. The event will conclude with a dedicated session presenting strategic recommendations to shape the framework for future defense programs.

Diriyah Company Launches Key Substations with Saudi Electricity Company (SEC) to Power Future Development

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Sahfy Sahfy
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Diriyah Company Launches Key Substations with Saudi Electricity Company (SEC) to Power Future Development
Diriyah Company Launches Key Substations with Saudi Electricity Company (SEC) to Power Future Development

In a significant milestone for Diriyah’s infrastructure development, the Diriyah Company has opened two major electricity substations, the 1707 MVA-capacity Bulk Substation and 200 MVA-capacity Primary Substation. Operated by the Saudi Electricity Company, they will accelerate the growth and development of major assets now being developed across The City of Earth in Diriyah and Wadi Safar.  The two substations are the first of the major urban infrastructure projects to feature a design inspired by Najdi architecture.

The 1707 MVA 380/132/13.8 kV Bulk Substation, with a contract value of SAR 605 million ($161 million), will support the development of assets in the first phase of Diriyah’s development and will be implemented by the Saudi Electricity Company through Saudi Services for Electro Mechanic Works (SSEM).  It will help enable a diverse range of cultural, educational, retail, offices, residential and hotel developments, including areas such as Diriyah Square, the Qurain Cultural District and Northern District areas.

To enable the energization of the substation, a major cabling contract valued at SAR 316 million ($84 million) will be implemented by the Saudi Electricity Company through the Civil and Electrical Projects Contracting Company (CEPCO).

The 200 MVA 132/33 kV Primary Substation, with a contract value amounting to SAR 77 million ($20 million), and will be implemented by the Saudi Electricity Company through (MAETEL) contracting company, Which will serve as one of the primary power sources for Wadi Safar, the prestigious development blending natural beauty with world-class amenities. This vibrant destination will feature hospitality assets and sports and recreation venues, including the Royal Diriyah Equestrian & Polo Club and the Greg Norman-designed Wadi Safar Golf Course.

To enable the energization of the substation, a major cabling contract valued at SAR 168 million ($45 million) will be implemented by the Saudi Electricity Company through the (DELTA) contracting company.

Both substations are designed to reflect Diriyah’s traditional Najdi architectural style, seamlessly blending with the surrounding development to preserve Diriyah’s cultural identity. By integrating Saudi Arabia’s rich historical heritage with state-of-the-art infrastructure, these substations stand as a testament to the region’s dedication to honoring its past while building a sustainable future.

Jerry Inzerillo, Group CEO of Diriyah Company, said: “The completion of the two substations represents a significant milestone in our journey toward delivering key assets in Diriyah, The City of Earth, including global hotel brands, branded residences, and cultural landmarks. Together with the two large scale cabling contracts to operate alongside the new substations, they represent further confirmation that we are progressing on time and within budget as we create one of the world’s greatest gathering places.”

Khalid bin Salim AlGhamdi, Acting CEO of Saudi Electricity Company, said: “The completion of the Bulk Substation  and the Primary Substation marks a new era for Diriyah, one that combines advanced infrastructure with our shared vision of creating a sustainable, world-class city. We are honored to work with Diriyah Company to bring power solutions that are both reliable and in harmony with Diriyah’s architectural heritage.”

The opening of the substations follows several other recent milestones, including the November 2024 groundbreaking for seven additional hotels and the announcement of two multi-billion-dollar districts – the Northern District and the Qurain Cultural District.

Diriyah is one of Saudi Arabia’s five giga-projects backed by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), and is building homes for 100,000 people, creating 178,000 jobs, will host 50 million visits a year by 2030, contributing $18.6 billion directly to Saudi Arabia’s GDP.

ADDED launches Abu Dhabi Registration and Licensing Authority to develop and regulate business sector

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شمس سيف
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ADDED launches Abu Dhabi Registration and Licensing Authority to develop and regulate business sector
ADDED launches Abu Dhabi Registration and Licensing Authority to develop and regulate business sector

The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) has launched Abu Dhabi Registration and Licensing Authority (ADRA) to further enhance and regulate the business sector across the emirate. 

The launch follows the Abu Dhabi Executive Council’s resolution to establish ADRA to oversee the registration of businesses in the emirate and its non-financial economic free zones and coordinate with relevant entities to streamline licensing procedures. ADRA will ensure full compliance with laws and regulations applicable in the emirate and its non-financial economic free zones, including those related to anti-money laundering (AML), combating the financing of suspicious activities, and addressing illicit organisations

ADRA will also develop a unified database consolidating data on economic establishments across the emirate’s mainland and its non-financial economic free zones. This initiative aims to facilitate the management of the commercial registry, streamline licensing procedures for economic establishments, manage regulatory affairs, and ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

Leveraging cutting-edge digital solutions, ADRA will facilitate business establishment, operations and growth to encourage investment and foster a robust ecosystem for the business sector. It will also introduce new types of licences, creating opportunities to attract talents, investors, and entrepreneurs, enabling them to benefit from the emirate’s diverse and robust economy.

His Excellency Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), said: “The establishment of ADRA marks a new milestone in                           Abu Dhabi’s remarkable economic journey. As an arm of ADDED, ADRA supports our initiatives to accelerate the emirate’s economic growth and diversification by offering streamlined procedures, expert guidance, and access to a thriving business ecosystem.”

H.E. Al Zaabi added: “ADRA embodies the emirate’s vision to strengthen its position as a leading destination for talent, investment, and business, empowering businesses to expand locally and globally, and access new markets. ADRA also plays a pivotal role in attracting new investments across key sectors, contributing to the realisation of Abu Dhabi’s economic vision. It ensures compliance with international standards and global regulations by all economic establishments in the emirate’s mainland and non-financial economic free zones, reflecting our commitment to further enhance transparency and provide accurate data for policymakers, researchers, and businesses to support informed, data-driven decision-making”.

Moreover, ADRA ensures compliance with local, federal, and international standards and regulations across all businesses in the emirate’s mainland and its non-financial economic free zones. The authority will also add to the unique attributes of Abu Dhabi’s soaring Falcon Economy, cementing its position as the preferred destination for talent, investors, and businesses.

Turki Alalshikh announces UFC fights scheduled for February 1 as part of Riyadh Season

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شمس سيف
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Turki Alalshikh announces UFC fights scheduled for February 1 as part of Riyadh Season
Turki Alalshikh announces UFC fights scheduled for February 1 as part of Riyadh Season

HE Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of the General Entertainment Authority (GEA), announced the lineup of fights for the global event organized as part of Riyadh Season in collaboration with UFC the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization.

The event, with tickets now available on the webook platform, will be held at the anb Arena in Riyadh on February 1, 2025, and is expected to feature exciting matchups between some of the world’s top fighters.

In the bouts, Dagestani Said Nurmagomedov (18-3-0) will face Brazilian Vinicius “Lok Dog” Oliveira (21-3-0), while Tajikistani Muhammad Naimov (11-3-0) will take on Australian Kain Ofli (12-3-1).

In another bout, American Terrance McKinney (15-7-0) will meet Danish Damir Hadzovic (14-7-0), and Austrian Bogdan Grad (14-2-0) will clash with Brazilian Lucas Alexander (8-4-0).

The French fighter Fares Ziam (16-4-0) faces the American Mike Davis (11-2-0) in a lightweight bout.

In a standout bout, Egyptian Hamdy Abdelwahab (5-0-0) will face American Jamal Pogues (11-4-0), while Bahraini Shamil Gaziev (13-1-0) will go up against American Thomas Petersen (9-2-0) in a tough fight.

The excitement continues as Americans Jordan Leavitt (11-3-0) and Abdul Kareem Al-Silwadi (15-4-0) face off, and Russian Sergei Pavlovich (18-3-0) takes on Surinamese Jairzinho “Bigi Boy” Rozenstruik (15-5-0).

Dagestani Ikram Aliskerov (15-2-0) will also meet Brazilian Andre Muniz (24-6-0) in a decisive battle.

Previously, HE Turki Alalshikh announced the main event, featuring former middleweight world champion Israel Adesanya (24-4-0), known as “The Last Stylebender,” against rising star Nassourdine Imavov (15-4-0), ranked fourth globally.

Israel Adesanya, the Nigerian-born New Zealander, is one of the biggest names in UFC history, returning to the ring after his loss to current middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis earlier this year. He aims to regain his form with a decisive victory over Imavov.

Meanwhile, Nassourdine Imavov, the French fighter of Dagestani origin, seeks to maintain his momentum following a significant win over Brendan Allen. Known for his well-rounded skills and powerful knockouts, Imavov hopes to topple a legend like Adesanya in a spectacular night.

The co-main event will feature another thrilling middleweight clash between undefeated Shara Magomedov (15-0-0), a Dagestani fighter ranked 14th globally, and Michael “Venom” Page (22-3-0), the English fighter known for his kickboxing prowess. Magomedov seeks to strengthen his ranking, while Page aims to return to his winning ways.

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