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ECSSR to Hold Second Mufakiru Al Emarat Forum on January 28

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

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

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

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

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

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.

DAE Announces Full Year 2024 Business and Operational Highlights

DAE Announces Full Year 2024 Business and Operational Highlights
DAE Announces Full Year 2024 Business and Operational Highlights

Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) Ltd (“DAE”), the global aviation services company, today reported its business transactions update for the full year 2024.

DAE Capital:

  • Acquired 83 aircraft (owned: 30; managed: 53)
  • Sold 68 aircraft (owned: 19; managed: 49)
  • Signed 233 lease agreements, extensions and amendments (owned: 190; managed: 43)
  • Placed on long-term lease 17 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft to Turkish Airlines, Eastar Jet, and Hainan Airlines.
  • Signed definitive purchase agreements to acquire 36 aircraft from multiple counterparties for an aggregate consideration of US$1.6 billion.
  • Priced a US$497.2 million two-tranche aircraft ABS for a DAE managed asset client.

DAE Engineering:

  • Booked >1.5 million man-hours
  • Performed >300 aircraft checks
  • Increased hangar capacity by 30% by expanding the number of bays to 22, including one A380 capable bay.
  • Deepened Joramco and Spirit AeroSystems relationship by adding further new shop capabilities in 2024.

Group:

  • Signed an AED 2.75 billion 5-year unsecured term loan with a GCC lender.
  • Upgraded by Fitch Ratings and Moody’s Investors Services to BBB and Baa2, respectively.

Commenting on the results, Firoz Tarapore, Chief Executive Officer of DAE, said: “2024 was another year of exemplary execution of our strategy to continually enhance our global franchise. The metrics we announced today reaffirm DAE’s status as a leading aviation services corporation, supported by two market-leading divisions: DAE Capital, a global top ten aircraft lessor, and DAE Engineering, the region’s independent airframe MRO of choice.

This was recognized during the year by both Fitch Ratings and Moody’s Investors Service, who both upgraded our unsecured credit ratings because of exemplary financial prudence including rock-solid commitments to capital adequacy and maintenance of exceptional liquidity.”

Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center Performs Testicular Cryopreservation for 4 Young Boys Prior to Undergoing Bone Marrow Transplantation

Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center Performs Testicular Cryopreservation for 4 Young Boys Prior to Undergoing Bone Marrow Transplantation
Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center Performs Testicular Cryopreservation for 4 Young Boys Prior to Undergoing Bone Marrow Transplantation

The Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center (ADSCC) has successfully performed four testicular tissue cryopreservation (TTC) procedures on four young patients (2, 7, 4 and 10 years-old respectively) prior to undergoing Bone Marrow Transplantation to treat their diseases. Two of the boys suffered from immunodeficiency diseases, one was diagnosed with leukemia and the other with thalassemia. Launching this innovative medical advancement for the first time in the UAE reflects ADSCC’s commitment to provide comprehensive innovative care for young patients and advanced pediatric bone marrow transplant care. The success of these procedures reinforces the Emirate’s ongoing healthcare achievements, further cementing Abu Dhabi’s status as a global leader in healthcare and life sciences.

Prior to bone marrow transplant, the young boys were required to undergo high-dose chemotherapy and total body irradiation required for the transplant. The parents were fully informed and educated about the potential risks of these treatments for their children’s future fertility. ADSCC physicians explained the benefits of testicular tissue cryopreservation in restoring the children’s future fertility.

The four surgical procedures were performed at ADSCC in 2024 with the consent of each of the children’s parents. Testicular tissues of each child were removed in a one-hour-procedure by ADSCC Pediatric Surgeons with the support of a multidisciplinary team of Urologists, Anesthesiologists and Bone Marrow Transplant physicians, and were transferred to one of Abu Dhabi’s Fertility Centers for processing and preservation.

Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center Performs Testicular Cryopreservation for 4 Young Boys Prior to Undergoing Bone Marrow Transplantation

Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center Performs Testicular Cryopreservation for 4 Young Boys Prior to Undergoing Bone Marrow Transplantation

Dr. Maysoon Al Karam, Chief Medical Officer at Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center said, “At ADSCC, we achieved a groundbreaking milestone earlier this year by performing the first ovarian tissue preservation procedure for a 7-year-old girl. Today, we are proud to announce another remarkable achievement of successfully performing testicular tissue cryopreservation for four young male patients. This achievement was made possible by our dedicated multidisciplinary team and highlights not only the advancements in pediatric care and fertility preservation but also our commitment to pioneering cutting-edge medical practices and delivering patient-centered care through our Abu Dhabi Bone Marrow Transplant Program (AD-BMT©). By offering fertility preservation options, including testicular and ovarian cryopreservation, we empower our pediatric BMT patients—both pre- and post-puberty—with the possibility of future fertility despite treatments that may impact their reproductive potential. Our efforts are derived by the latest scientific advancements, positioning ADSCC as a leader in providing tailored fertility preservation solutions for pre-pubertal male and female patients in the UAE and the region. This progress reinforces our vision to set new standards in medical excellence and compassionate care.”

Dr. Mansi Sachdev, Clinical Lead & Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Bone Marrow Transplant Consultant at ADSCC stated, “A key milestone in ADSCC journey is the successful integration of testicular tissue preservation into the treatment plans of young male patients undergoing bone marrow transplantation. This innovative procedure was seamlessly incorporated into their comprehensive care, which included high-intensity chemotherapy and radiation therapy that are crucial steps in preparing for the life-saving bone marrow transplant to treat their underlying conditions.”

Dr. Sleiman Gebran, Pediatric Surgery Consultant at ADSCC, said, “The surgical procedure involved carefully removing a small portion of the testicular tissue while ensuring minimal disruption to the surrounding anatomy and functionality. It is a meticulous process that requires precision and collaboration with a multidisciplinary team to integrate this into the patient’s overall treatment plan which we offer at ADSCC. This groundbreaking approach allows us to preserve spermatogonial stem cells for potential future use, offering families reassurance amidst challenging circumstances. As a pediatric surgeon, it is both a privilege and a responsibility to be part of a procedure that not only treats current health challenges but also addresses long-term quality of life goals for our patients.”

In 2023, ADSCC has been officially designated as the Center of Excellence for Bone Marrow Transplantation by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi and was the first center in the UAE to be accredited by the Foundation for the Accreditation of Cellular Therapy (FACT) for its comprehensive cellular therapy program in 2024. These recognitions underscore the center’s commitment to excellence in providing advanced bone marrow and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation services. With state-of-the-art infrastructure and a specialized, internationally accredited team, ADSCC adheres to the highest global standards of care, ensuring optimal therapeutic outcomes for patients in Abu Dhabi and beyond.

The advanced technique of TTC involves slicing testicular tissue into thin strips, which are treated with cryoprotective agents to safeguard the cells from damage during the freezing process. The tissue is then gradually cooled and stored at ultra-low temperatures, typically in liquid nitrogen at approximately -196°C (-320.8°F). It can remain preserved for 20 to 25 years or longer, with the potential for future reimplantation to restore fertility. TTC is among the most innovative techniques globally, offering a promising solution for preserving fertility in prepubescent males at risk of infertility due to chemotherapy or radiation therapy during childhood.

This accomplishment highlights ADSCC’s leadership in advancing regional healthcare capabilities, particularly in cellular therapy research and its applications across diverse fields such as oncology, hematology, and reproductive health. By focusing on both immediate treatment and long-term quality of life, the center demonstrates its dedication to providing forward-thinking, patient-centered care that sets new benchmarks for healthcare innovation in the UAE and the region.

HUAWEI FreeClip with Rose Gold Finish and Smart Features Elevates Open-Ear Audio to New Heights

HUAWEI FreeClip with Rose Gold Finish and Smart Features Elevates Open-Ear Audio to New Heights
HUAWEI FreeClip with Rose Gold Finish and Smart Features Elevates Open-Ear Audio to New Heights

The HUAWEI FreeClip has been a refreshing take on earbuds. The unique design and open-ear audio have proved to be a true fusion of style and function. These earbuds combine cutting-edge sound tech with a fashionable, lightweight design that’s as stylish as it is practical. And now they have gotten even better with a brand new Rose Gold colour option and a bunch of thoughtful features. The latest updates also bring new features such as Dynamic Bass Algorithm, Head Motion Controls, and Drop Reminders for even more convenience. The FreeClip promises a listening experience that feels effortless and smooth.

A Dash of Rose Gold, A Whole Lot of Personality

Rose Gold is one of those colours that draws attention without demanding it. Subtle yet captivating, it evokes the quiet glow of a cherished piece of jewellery. Its gentle shifts in hue—sometimes a soft pink, other times a warm gold—capture the light in ways that feel both elegant and unassuming.

This refined shade strikes a perfect balance between soft and assertive, offering a touch of sophistication without feeling stuffy. It has the unique ability to enhance everything it touches, whether it’s your skin tone or your favourite outfit for the day. There’s something reassuring about wearing earbuds that stand out from the crowd—not just for their tech features but for their fashion-forward design. 

Little Touches That Make a Big Difference

The HUAWEI FreeClip comes packed with thoughtful features that, while subtle, enhance your day-to-day experience. Take the new Drop Reminders, for example. If one earbud slips, the other will play a tone, and you’ll receive a notification on your phone—ensuring your earbuds stay exactly where they should.

Then there are the innovative Hands-Free Head Motion Controls, which allow you to answer or reject calls with a simple nod or shake of your head, perfect for when your hands are occupied. With this hands-free functionality, all it takes is a quick motion to accept or reject calls—making life just a bit easier and more convenient. The HUAWEI FreeClip, through the latest OTA update, offers a hands-free solution by allowing users to nod to accept calls and shake their head to reject them.

A Listening Experience That Goes Beyond the Basics

The HUAWEI FreeClip promises an excellent audio experience with its 10.8mm Dual-Magnet High-Sensitivity Driver Unit and large amplitude drive, preserving the clarity of sound. The dual-magnet high-sensitivity driver unit increases the magnetic induction intensity, when pairing with the enhanced dynamic bass algorithm, thus increasing the driving capability of the speakers. The Dynamic Bass Algorithm helps lows feel richer without muddying the rest. This produces a powerful sound quality and brings out the different tones of the music the user is listening to, from the resonant bass to the treble of the song.

The FreeClip are designed to ensure both comfort and stability, adapting to the contours of your ear for a snug yet lightweight fit. It’s as if the earbuds give your ears a gentle hug—never pressing too hard, but always staying in place. These earbuds stay securely in place whether you’re pushing yourself through a tough workout or catching a bus in the rain. And with an IP54 rating, they’re sweat- and water-resistant, ready to withstand whatever your day throws at you.

The open-ear design of the FreeClip lets you stay focused on work while enjoying your favourite tunes, and also stay aware of your surroundings. This makes it easier for spontaneous interactions with coworkers and also makes you seem more approachable. The FreeClip embrace an open-ear design. That means, you never have to choose between staying in your own world and being aware of the one around you. It’s the perfect way to stay connected to both.

Huawei has been making wearables that actually look good. With its earring-like design and stylish colourways, the FreeClip can pass off as a fashion accessory that complements any outfit. No matter if it’s worn to a hike in the mountains or to a usual day at the office, the FreeClip give you the freedom to move in comfort and style.

UAEREP to Host 7th International Rain Enhancement Forum from 28 to 30 January 2025

UAEREP to Host 7th International Rain Enhancement Forum from 28 to 30 January 2025
UAEREP to Host 7th International Rain Enhancement Forum from 28 to 30 January 2025

Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, and in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes’ Affairs, the National Center of Meteorology (NCM), through the UAE Research Program for Rain Enhancement Science (UAEREP), will host the 7th International Rain Enhancement Forum (IREF) from 28 to 30 January 2025 at Conrad Abu Dhabi, Etihad Towers.

The event will convene over 50 high-profile speakers from across the globe, including top global experts, policymakers, and researchers to advance discussions on water security and weather modification. With a strong emphasis on artificial intelligence solutions for weather enhancement, the Forum seeksto serve as a global platform for scientific discussions, fostering collaboration and innovation in rain enhancement science.

The 7th IREF coincides with UAEREP’s 10th anniversary, a milestone that underscores its decade-long commitment to advancing rain enhancement science and technology as a sustainable solution to water scarcity challenges, while contributing to water and food security both locally and globally.

To date, the UAEREP has allocated AED 82.6 million towardsthe successful completion of 14 innovative research projects, resulting in 8 patents, with 3 more pending registration. The Forum will commence with a special ceremony to honor distinguished local and international figures and institutions that have contributed to the program’s journey over the past decade.

His Excellency Dr. Abdulla Al Mandous, Director General of the National Center of Meteorology (NCM) and President of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), stated: “The continuous support of our leadership for the NCM has been instrumental in enhancing the UAEREP’s research outcomes, establishing the program as a global hub that brings together a vast network of researchers and experts in weather modification and water sustainability. We are proud of the program’s journey over the past ten years and remain dedicated to further advancing its research efforts in support of the global quest to achieve water security.”

Al Mandous added: “Since its inception, IREF has exemplifiedthe UAE’s unwavering commitment to addressing the global water security challenge through scientific innovation and international collaboration. As the climate crisis intensifies, platforms like IREF are essential for uniting diverse expertise to create transformative solutions that benefit communities worldwide.”

Set at the forefront of advancing rainfall enhancement, and driving innovative solutions to strengthen global water security, the UAEREP will officially launch its sixth award cycle, which will focus on five research thrust areas, namely, Optimized Seeding Materials, Novel Cloud Formation and/or Rain Enhancement Systems, Autonomous UAS, Limited-Area Climate Interventions, and Advanced Models, Software, and Data. Researchers from around the world – across academia, government and industry – will be invited to submit their research preproposals starting from IREF’s first day on 28 January until 20 March 2025.

Alya Al Mazrouei, Director of UAEREP, said: “The 7th edition of IREF represents a landmark event in the global dialogue on water sustainability and weather enhancement, focusing on key topics that will shape the future of rainfall enhancement applications, particularly the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and other technological breakthroughs. Through knowledge transfer and multi-sector collaboration, IREF will continue to play a crucial role in advancing scientific understanding and technological innovations, ensuring a sustainable water future for all.”

The IREF sessions will address key topics such as regional and global perspectives on water security, advancements in hybrid AI-physics-based models for climate research, and innovations in autonomous unmanned aerial systems for weather modification. Discussions will also cover the development of novel cloud seeding materials, limited-area climate interventions, and new approaches to rainfall enhancement. Students and early-career scientists will have the opportunity to present their research through a dedicated poster session, shaping the next generation of experts in this critical field.