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“Columna Media Consultancy” Launches Strategic Communications Operations in the UAE

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شمس سيف
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“Columna Media Consultancy” Launches Strategic Communications Operations in the UAE
Columna Media Consultancy has officially commenced its operations in the United Arab Emirates, offering strategic advisory and digital communications services across the Middle East region.
With a focus on establishing a diverse portfolio of clients across various industries within government, corporate and private sectors, the company’s mission is to provide innovative, digital services that contribute to strengthening the profile and reputation of leading brands in the UAE and the wider region.
Columna offers a comprehensive range of services designed to meet client needs, through execution of creative campaigns and implementation of social and online media strategies in line with the highest global standards and practices. The company’s services span strategy development, crisis communications planning, spokespersons coaching and training, content creation as well as digital, creative and social media management.
Additionally, Columna provides technical services, including design and production, event support, thought leadership programme development and issues monitoring.
Samir Hammad, Founder and CEO of Columna Media Consultancy, stated, “The UAE’s rapid growth and development provides an ideal opportunity to establish a new, independent communications consultancy, headquartered in the UAE’s capital. At Columna, we aim to provide a new customised, tailored approach to strategic communications, with the capabilities to support a wide range of organisations across many industries and verticals. We will be a partner that understands the evolving needs of our clients and provide services that create positive business impact, whilst strengthening reputation.”
Columna’s leadership brings more than 20 years of experience in managing strategies and integrated communications campaigns across many sectors including energy, infrastructure, healthcare, technology, aerospace, business and financial services. In addition, Columna’s leadership is actively supporting industry associations and contributing to initiatives aimed at creating a better future and addressing the challenges faced by professionals. Samir Hammad holds the position of MEPRA Executive Board Member and has been named one of the region’s most influential PR and communications professionals in PRWeek’s Middle East Power Book 2024.
included in PR Week’s Middle East Power Book 2024 as one of the region’s most influential PR and communications professionals
The company’s corporate identity is inspired by the Latin word Columna, meaning “pillar,” symbolising the strategic pillars upon which the agency’s specialised communications and strategic plans are built and developed.

Saudi Unemployment Rate Drops Amid Economic Expansion

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شمس سيف
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Saudi Unemployment Rate Drops Amid Economic Expansion: Jadwa Investment Report
Saudi Arabia’s labor market continues to demonstrate significant improvements, with unemployment rates hitting new lows, according to the latest report by Jadwa Investment. The Saudi Labor Market Update, based on data from the General Authority for Statistics (GaStat), highlights robust growth in employment and labor force participation during the first half of 2024 (H1 2024).
The unemployment rate fell to 7.1 percent at the end of H1 2024, down from 8.5 percent a year earlier. This improvement is largely attributed to a notable drop in female unemployment, which declined to 12.8 percent from almost 16 percent in Q2 2023. Male unemployment also saw a reduction, falling to 4 percent from 4.6 percent.
The number of Saudi workers in the private sector grew by 4.1 percent, increasing from 2.2 million in Q2 2023 to 2.3 million in Q2 2024. This marks a continued trend of Saudization in various industries.
Overall labor force participation rose from 50.4 percent at the end of 2023 to 50.8 percent at the end of H1 2024. This increase reflects higher engagement among both men and women.
The largest increases in Saudi employment were recorded in the ‘manufacturing’ and ‘construction’ sectors, showcasing the Kingdom’s focus on diversifying its economy and expanding non-oil industries.
The number of expatriates in the Saudi labor market surged to nearly 9 million in H1 2024, up from 8.1 million at the end of 2023. A significant portion of these workers joined the construction sector, accounting for around one-third of the new additions.
Employment in Saudi Arabia has expanded consistently, with 1.4 million new jobs added in 2022, 0.9 million in 2023, and 0.8 million in H1 2024 alone.
Jadwa Investment anticipates continued growth in job opportunities for Saudi nationals, driven by robust economic expansion and the Kingdom’s ongoing localization efforts. Sectors such as manufacturing, construction, and other non-oil industries are expected to lead this progress.
Saudi Arabia’s labor market reforms are part of its Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to diversify the economy away from oil dependence and increase Saudi participation in the workforce. Key measures include the Nitaqat program, which incentivizes private sector companies to hire more Saudis, and investments in education and training programs tailored to align with market demands.
The Kingdom’s non-oil economy has grown rapidly in recent years, bolstered by investments in infrastructure, technology, and green energy projects. These efforts have not only created new jobs but also enhanced the quality and diversity of employment opportunities for Saudi nationals.
As these reforms continue to take shape, Saudi Arabia’s labor market is expected to remain a key driver of its broader economic transformation.

Dubai Investments reports net profit after tax of AED 650.51 million for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2024

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شمس سيف
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Dubai Investments reports net profit after tax of AED 650.51 million for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2024

Dubai Investments PJSC, the leading diversified investment company listed on the Dubai Financial Market (DFM), announced net profit after tax attributable to shareholders of AED 241.31 million for the three-month period ended 30 September 2024 compared to AED 236.54 million during the corresponding period in previous year. 

Further, the Group reported a net profit after tax attributable to shareholders of AED 650.51 million for the nine-month period ending September 30, 2024. 

The net profit attributable to the shareholders after tax for the current period is significantly higher by 80% and 78% respectively for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2024 and for the three-month period ended September 30, 2024, if adjusted for the one-off gain on the fair valuation of investment properties.

The Group’s total assets grew to AED 21.81 billion as at 30 September 2024 compared to AED 21.44 billion as at 31 December 2023. The equity attributable to the shareholders of the company is recorded at AED 13.58 billion compared to AED 13.46 billion as at 31 December 2023.

Khalid Bin Kalban, Vice Chairman and CEO of Dubai Investments, commented: “Dubai Investments’ financial performance for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2024, reflects the Group’s strategic commitment to sustainable growth and thoughtful portfolio diversification. This achievement showcases the enduring strength and resilience of the Group’s core business operations. The Group is encouraged by the dynamic momentum in the real estate sector, complemented by the improved performance of its investment portfolio. Dubai Investments will continue to monetize its real estate assets as part of the Group’s strategic objectives. By strategically capitalizing on emerging opportunities and implementing forward-looking investment strategies, the Group remains well-positioned to drive long-term value for the shareholders.”

Key business highlights

The off-plan sales for Violet Tower at Jumeirah Village Circle have been robust, with construction progressing on track for completion by Q4 2026. Meanwhile, the Danah Bay project is making significant headway, with villas slated for completion in Q1 2025, followed by the Beachfront Villas in Q3 2025 and the Danah Bay Residential Tower in Q4 2026. Additionally, the Group, exemplified by Al Mal Capital REIT, now holds five income-generating assets. These key developments play a pivotal role in reinforcing the Group’s real estate portfolio and enhancing its contribution to sustainable income streams.

The Group’ geographical expansion efforts are also gaining momentum, marked by the commencement of construction for DIP Angola, the Group’s ambitious mixed-use economic zone in Africa. This project demonstrates Dubai Investments vision of establishing integrated hubs that catalyze economic and social progress.

Dubai Investments is dedicated to creating long-term value for its shareholders and this strategic diversification across different emirates and market segments underscores the Group’s commitment to risk mitigation and portfolio resilience.

Sony launches Alpha Femme in Kuwait to engage and empower female content creators

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شمس سيف
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Sony launches Alpha Femme in Kuwait to engage and empower female content creators

Sony has launched Alpha Femme in Kuwait, in collaboration with AAB World, marking a significant step in empowering female content creators to fulfil their creative ambitions. The workshops were held in Kuwait from 27 October to 1 November, featuring over 50 prominent female content creators from across the region and beyond, discussing their craft – from food photography to film-making and fine arts at Symphony Mall, Salmiya, AAB World Academy, in Kuwait City.

True to its legacy of celebrating creativity, inspiration, and the incredible talent of women in photography and cinematography, Alpha Femme hosted celebrated female content creators, including Zainab Alkhayat and Meera Fathima to name a few. Zainab, a Saudi specialist in capturing the essence of weddings and creating breathtaking wedding films, conducted a workshop on mastering beauty shots for wedding cinematography. Renowned food stylist and photographer based in Dubai, Meera, conducted a workshop on the basics of food styling providing a comprehensive overview of layering, arranging and styling to build a delicious culinary presentation. Other topics of discussion also included filmmaking and how to translate one’s ideas into tangible and artistic vision. 

Jobin Joejoe, Managing Director at Sony Middle East & Africa, said, “The Alpha Femme series in Kuwait was a platform that brought together leading female content creators to share their knowledge and expertise with aspiring creators. This initiative highlights Sony’s ongoing commitment to empowering female content creators and providing opportunities for them to grow. We recognized the growing need for female-centric workshops in the region, and the overwhelming response we received demonstrates how much support there is for women pursuing creative careers. Alpha Femme is just the beginning, and we plan to host more initiatives like this to help women hone their craft, connect with industry leaders, and pursue their creative passions.”

Following the success of the workshops, Sony plans to conduct at least one workshop each month to support women on their creative journeys fueling creativity, inspiration and talent. 

DHL Express appoints Abdulaziz Busbate as CEO for MENA Region

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شمس سيف
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DHL Express appoints Abdulaziz Busbate as CEO for MENA Region

DHL Express has appointed Abdulaziz Busbate as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of DHL Express MENA (Middle East and North Africa), effective January 1, 2025. He will succeed Nour Suliman, who recently stepped into a non-executive advisory role within DHL Group as President MENA. Abdulaziz Busbate will be based in Bahrain and will report directly to John Pearson, CEO of DHL Express.

Bringing 24 years of management experience at DHL Express to the role, Busbate began his journey in Saudi Arabia, leading various commercial teams and contributing significantly to the organization’s profitable growth. In 2014, he transferred to Bahrain as Country Manager, where he focused on service improvement and commercial development. In 2021, Busbate returned to Saudi Arabia as Managing Director, successfully driving forward the company’s strategy, including significant enhancements to service quality, investments in infrastructure and capacity, and development of the local workforce.

“We are excited to welcome Abdulaziz Busbate to this pivotal role,” said John Pearson, CEO of DHL Express. “His extensive experience, proven track record, and deep understanding of the region will be invaluable as we continue to drive growth and innovation in the Middle East and North Africa market, which continues to be a strategically important market for our customers and a source of talented, motivated employees for our global organization.”

“I’m honored to lead this great team and build upon our strong foundations in this diverse, dynamic, and entrepreneurial region,” said Abdulaziz Busbate. “My focus will remain on expanding DHL’s leadership position in the Middle East and North Africa, enabling growth and delivering exceptional service to our customers. We will continue to invest in making DHL a Great Place to Work for our people and a pioneer of sustainable logistics, delivering a positive contribution to the communities we serve.”

British Council announces the launch of the ELTons Festival of Innovation: a global celebration of English language teaching and learning

By
شمس سيف
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British Council announces the launch of the ELTons Festival of Innovation: a global celebration of English language teaching and learning

The British Council’s prestigious awards recognising excellence and innovation in English language teaching, the ELTons, has announced an exciting new chapter for this year’s programme with the launch of the ELTons Festival of Innovation.

Once primarily focused on recognising achievements from sector innovators and ed-tech companies, a new two-day festival around the ELTons Innovation Awards will open its doors to teachers, learners and businesses, welcoming new audiences and sparking vibrant new discussions across the entire English language education community.

The festival, scheduled for 19 – 20 November 2024, aims to bring together around 10,000 innovators, business and education leaders, researchers, educators, and students from 100 countries worldwide, making it a major event in the field of English language education. 

The first day of the festival will take place online, spanning global time zones, taking place on Tuesday 19 November, and is free to join from anywhere in the world. The festival provides an inclusive opportunity for everyone to be a part of this unique experience. Interested attendees can register now using this link here. 

The festival will feature a comprehensive programme with a total of 20 sessions, including headliner presentations, interactive debates and roundtables, lightning talks, and workshops. Key topics to be addressed include:

  • Will technological advances reduce the need to learn languages in the future?
  • How can we best prepare students for a complex and ever-changing world?
  • Is virtual learning now better than learning in real life?

In a special guest speaker session, the British Council will also present ‘The evolution of English: exploring innovation through language’. This session marks the organisation’s 90th anniversary with a unique exploration of the English language and its development over the past nine decades, with a focus on the ‘Future of English’ and how the language we use will define the next generation.

On the following day, Wednesday 20 November, the ELTons 2024 winners will be revealed on the festival website and a celebration of the finalists will take place at the British Council’s headquarters in Stratford, London  

For the first time, a set of eight Outstanding Achievement Award winners will be revealed from across regions and continents worldwide.

Mark Walker, Director English & Exams at the British Council said:

“For over 20 years, the ELT sector has led the way in global innovation in education. I am excited to see our ELTons programme expand and engage a broader audience of English language learners, teachers and organisations worldwide. We will be offering a series of thought-provoking sessions that are accessible across all time zones, enabling more people to participate.

“We are also pleased to continue celebrating the remarkable achievements of this vibrant global community of innovators through the ELTons Innovation Awards. Congratulations to all the finalists, and I look forward to meeting many of you during the festival this November.”

The British Council ELTons Awards for Innovation in English language education is now in their 22nd year.

This year the British Council received a record number of over 200 ELTons awards entries from 60 countries around the world.

Communications Powerhouses TRACCS and Accordience Announce Strategic Global Affiliate Partnership

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شمس سيف
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Communications Powerhouses TRACCS and Accordience Announce Strategic Global Affiliate Partnership

TRACCS, the largest independent and homegrown communications consultancy in the MENA region, and Accordience, the parent company of global agency brands Grayling, Citigate Dewe Rogerson, Cirkle, Red Consultancy, and movement, announced a strategic global partnership bringing together decades of proven expertise and experience.

This affiliation enables access to integrated, reputation-building communications services and solutions for leading organizations, with a worldwide network of more than 100 offices.

This unique partnership addresses the growing demand from corporates and organizations for seamless local, regional, and global communications delivered through a single, integrated team.

By combining TRACCS’ unrivalled MENA presence and expertise with Accordience’s extensive international network, the alliance enables clients to reach and influence diverse audiences across multiple markets with cohesive, culturally resonant messaging.

Mohamed Al Ayed, CEO of TRACCS, said, “Communications is a game-changing industry, and for the past 27 years, TRACCS has had the privilege of playing a major role in inspiring, driving, and leading the evolution of the industry in the Middle East and North Africa. With the aspirations of all major global markets and businesses transcending borders, strategic communications plays a mission-critical role in ensuring unified messaging, positive brand reputation, and successful business outcomes. This partnership with Accordience is more than just a business affiliation; it is a three-way commitment that positively impacts our combined portfolio of clients, our teams, and the communications ecosystem as a whole. Together, we have the passion, dedication, and know-how to deliver multi-stakeholder and multi-market communications programs that hit the mark.”

Sarah Scholefield, Group CEO of Accordience, said, “In today’s connected world, businesses need communications partners who can think globally and act locally. This partnership with TRACCS addresses the critical need for organizations to maintain brand consistency across borders while adapting their messages to resonate in local markets. By combining Accordience’s global reach and diverse sector expertise with TRACCS’ breadth and depth across MENA, we’re creating a powerful alliance that will enable our clients to navigate complex international landscapes with confidence. Whether it’s a global brand looking to make an impact in the Middle East or a MENA-based company seeking to expand internationally, our partnership offers a unique, integrated approach to strategic communications.”

The joint offer to clients and new business targets will combine a comprehensive suite of services including brand communications, corporate and public affairs, financial communications, and digital and social media strategies.

It will serve clients across various sectors, including financial services, retail, FMCG, real estate, sport, energy, technology, infrastructure, and many more.

The TRACCS-Accordience affiliate partnership has already led to the successful delivery of multiple international client projects, showcasing the immediate value and seamless integration of the collaboration.

About TRACCS:

TRACCS has been at the forefront of the game-changing communications industry in MENA for over 25 years and remains the largest independent regional communications consultancy with over 200 professionals working across 11 countries and 12 offices.

TRACCS offers the full scope of integrated communications solutions delivered through the three main service streams of Advisory, Content, and Training to government, corporate and multinational clients.

TRACCS has the largest pool of Arabic-speaking communications professionals globally, with 85% of its team comprising native Arabic speakers. A multiple award-winning practice and member of PRCA, TRACCS is the only MENA-based agency to be featured in PRovoke Media’s Global Top 250 PR Agency Ranking (#155 in 2024).

About Accordience:

Accordience is a global strategic communications group with expertise in corporate affairs, crisis management, and brand communications.

With over 800 experts across 37 owned offices and 54 affiliate locations worldwide, Accordience delivers impactful communications solutions for the world’s leading brands through its agency brands Grayling, Citigate Dewe Rogerson, Cirkle, Red Consultancy, and movement.

WAM Saudi to bring deep knowledge and broad perspectives from international experts across diverse industrial sectors

By
شمس سيف
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Inaugural World Advanced Manufacturing & Logistics Summit (WAM) Saudi to bring deep knowledge and broad perspectives from international experts across diverse industrial sectors

The World Advanced Manufacturing & Logistics Summit (WAM), the premier gathering for advanced manufacturing and logistics in the Middle East, will take place at the Fairmont Hotel in Riyadh on 11 November 2024. Organised by KAOUN International, WAM Saudi Summit will take place in strategic partnership with MODON (the Saudi Authority for Industrial Cities and Technology Zones).

The WAM Saudi Summit provides Saudi policymakers, investors, and industry leaders with practical tools to navigate the challenges, threats, and opportunities central to Vision 2030’s industrial goals. It will also act as a preview of next November’s WAM Saudi Expo, the most advanced and dynamic presentation of disruptive tech, and chance to gain insight from world-leading industry experts and build new partnerships that cross borders.

Saudi Arabia is rapidly emerging as a global leader in advanced manufacturing and logistics, driven by its ambitious Vision 2030 strategic initiative. The nation already hosts 40 industrial cities, and 59 new logistics zones.

Trixie LohMirmand, CEO of KAOUN International, the organiser of the WAM Saudi Summit, commented: “At the World Advanced Manufacturing & Logistics Summit (WAM) we are setting the stage for a transformative dialogue that unites global industry leaders and Saudi stakeholders to drive advanced manufacturing and logistics forward in the Kingdom. We are excited to facilitate an exchange of ideas, and foster the talent development, capacity building, knowledge exchange, and innovation that will support Saudi Arabia’s ambitions as a global hub of technological and economic progress.”

One of the key forces driving Saudi Arabia’s industrial transformation, and creating an attractive environment for inward investment and innovation, is the Saudi Authority for Industrial Cities and Technology Zones (MODON). Reflecting the importance of the WAM Saudi Summit in achieving the nation’s goals, MODON will be the Strategic Partner for the preview edition.

Ali Alomeir, VP of Business Development at MODON explained: “MODON’s strategic partnership with the World Advanced Manufacturing & Logistics Summit (WAM) underscores our dedication to fostering an ecosystem of innovation and investment aligned with Saudi Vision 2030. This summit is a pivotal opportunity for industry leaders to collaborate, share knowledge, and build partnerships that will shape Saudi Arabia’s industrial future. We are proud to support Saudi Arabia’s emergence as a leader in sustainable and tech-driven manufacturing.”

Under the theme “Access to the future of manufacturing”, the WAM Saudi Summit will feature speakers from global leaders in advanced manufacturing and logistics – many speaking in Saudi for the first time.

In Blueprints of 2030, experts including Faisal Sultan, Vice President and Managing Director at Lucid Motors, USA and Jens Greiner, Enterprise Technologist at Amazon Web Services will address the challenge of building tech-enabled, sustainable factories equipped to handle resource constraints and rising global competition, presenting opportunities for enhanced productivity through digital integration.

The Industrial Alchemy session will focus on the transformative potential of Industry 4.0, exploring advanced technologies like AI, robotics, and IoT that are redefining manufacturing, while speakers tackle threats such as cybersecurity risks and operational complexities in implementing these innovations.

The Transforming Industrial Finance roundtable will confront capital access barriers, offering structured investment solutions to fund large-scale projects with managed risk. Demi Stefanova, Interim CEO of Quickstep Holdings, Australia will discuss the main financial challenges and opportunities in aerospace manufacturing, and Halil Bedevi, Head of Advanced Manufacturing Sectors at Santander, UK will explore how global manufacturing potential can be unlocked through advanced financial solutions.

In Hyperports & Megahubs, meanwhile logistics experts including Sung Moon, Director of Investment Promotion Division at Busan Jinhae Free Economic Zone, South Korea will discuss the infrastructure demands of a rapidly evolving supply chain landscape, addressing issues like demand fluctuations and security vulnerabilities, while presenting scalable logistics models to solidify Saudi Arabia’s position as a global logistics hub. Each session provides clear strategies for attendees to overcome obstacles, leverage new growth avenues, and secure their role in the Kingdom’s industrial future.

“This summit is a pivotal moment for the oil and gas sector to redefine its future. The convergence of advanced technologies, like AI and machine learning, offers unprecedented opportunities to elevate pipeline integrity, boost operational efficiency, and achieve lasting sustainability. I’m excited to join this platform to drive forward-thinking strategies that will shape our industry’s next chapter”, commented Ahmed Farouk, General Manager – Centre of Excellence, at the Egyptian Natural Gas Company GASCO.

Vanessa Xu, Executive Chairwoman and CIO of VS Partners, Hong Kong SAR added: “This summit is a vital gathering for aligning capital and innovation to drive the future of industrialisation. I’m honoured to share insights on navigating emerging markets and unlocking strategic industrial finance opportunities.”

The WAM Saudi Summit is sponsored by multinational software house and systems integrator Comarch, Singapore-based sustainable tech solutions provider Hiverlab, and eco-friendly transportation technology pioneer Vego.

The WAM Saudi Summit builds on the success of KAOUN’s existing portfolio of shows, including the Kingdom’s largest food show, the Saudi Food Show, and is affiliated with GITEX GLOBAL, the largest tech and AI events across the world – as well as the flourishing Saudi Food Manufacturing show – and strengthens the strategic partnership built with MODON.

The WAM Saudi Summit will be followed by the WAM Saudi Expo, which will take place from 24 – 26 November 2025 at the Riyadh Front Convention & Exhibition Centre.

For more information on both events, please visit: https://www.wamsaudi.com/

150 Global Visionaries to Explore Transformative Futures at Dubai Future Forum 2024

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شمس سيف
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150 Global Visionaries to Explore Transformative Futures at Dubai Future Forum 2024

The third edition of the Dubai Future Forum, hosted by Dubai Future Foundation on 19-20 November at the Museum of the Future, will gather 150 prominent speakers, including government officials, CEOs, academics, policymakers, thought leaders, and futurists from the UAE and around the globe.

This global event, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Dubai Future Foundation, will feature around 70 sessions, including panel discussions, keynote addresses, and workshops. Over 2,500 experts from around 100 countries are expected to attend, alongside representatives from 100 international organisations specialising in future design.

The list of the speakers includes Sarah Sabry, the first Arab and African astronaut; Dr Makoto Suzuki from Okinawa Institute of Longevity; Laila Abdullatif from Emirates Nature–WWF; Amy Webb from Future Today Institute; His Excellency Omran Sharaf, Assistant Foreign Minister of Advanced Sciences and Technology, MoTF, UAE; and Jay Ogilvy, co-founder of Global Business Network, among others.

Prof. Pattie Maes (MIT), commenting on her participation, stated, “Dubai Future Forum is taking place at a pivotal moment as we stand ready to maximise the benefits of future technology and AI, which promise significant opportunities for global development and societal benefit.”

Bo Viktor Nylund (UNICEF Innocenti) posed a thought-provoking question, “What will the world look like in 2050 for future generations? This is directly depending on us. Through collective action, we can design a better future for children, centring the future of generations to come in all strategic plans and initiatives.”

Anne Beate Hovind (Library of the Future) highlighted the role of cultural exchange, saying, “The Forum brings together influential figures to share ideas, strengthening global cultural connections and shared values.”

Glenn Gainor (Amazon Studios) spoke on storytelling’s transformative potential, noting, “With advancing technology, more people can share their stories widely, shaping perceptions, inspiring change, and bridging cultures and generations.”

Paul Saffo, a renowned futurist and adjunct professor at Stanford, highlighted the significance of the event, stating, “The Dubai Future Forum is an essential annual gathering for exploring the latest research, studies, and methodologies in foresight. It offers an unparalleled platform to address major global challenges and is a must-attend for foresight specialists aiming to amplify their impact.”

Dr Jordan Nguyen, inventor, author, speaker, and biomedical engineer at Psykinetic, expressed his excitement for the event, stating, “I look forward to attending the Dubai Future Forum and connecting with influential leaders from around the world to exchange ideas that can benefit humanity. This gathering allows us to collectively capitalise on our ever-evolving tools in science and technology to focus on a better future—for our people, our planet, and life on Earth.”

Prof. Angela Maas, a cardiologist specialised in heart disease in women at Radboud University Medical Center in Nijmegen, Netherlands, emphasised the importance of inclusive healthcare, noting, “Participating in the Dubai Future Forum will provide an invaluable opportunity to discuss the importance of gender-sensitive cardiology, which prioritises cardiovascular health for women, ultimately improving healthcare quality for society as a whole.”

5 Key Themes

Speakers at the Dubai Future Forum will address five key themes: Futuring Nature, which focuses on our deep connection to nature and calls for urgent environmental actions; Transforming Humanity, exploring the power to radically reshape ways of life by moving beyond the legacy models; Optimising Health, highlighting transformations in healthcare sector; Empowering Generations, offering solutions to humanity’s most complex and universal needs; and Foresight Insights, providing a comprehensive overview of the foresight field, and emphasising the need for innovative tools to navigate our changing world.

Future-Focused Sectors

Sessions and activities at this forum will delve into future trends in key sectors, including space, sustainability, environment, energy, food, health, education, technology, AI, digital economy, government operations, and more.

100 Innovative Projects

The Forum will also feature a showcase of the top 100 pilot projects and innovative solutions under the “Dubai Future Solutions – Prototypes for Humanity” initiative. This programme, held under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, is a collaboration between the Dubai Future Foundation and the Hussain Sajwani – DAMAC Foundation, the strategic partner recently pledged AED 100 million to support innovation and technology.

Activations

This year’s Forum edition will include new activations before, during, and after the main event to foster connections through interactive, cultural, and artistic gatherings, throughout Dubai. These activities are designed to empower participants with the knowledge and skills needed to anticipate emerging trends, share insights on future planning methodologies, scenario development, and innovative problem-solving approaches.

For more information about the Dubai Future Forum 2024, please visit: https://www.dubaifuture.ae/dubai-future-forum-2024

Dubai’s Office Market Sees Unprecedented Uptake and Rental Surge Across Top Business Areas in Q3 2024

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شمس سيف
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Dubai’s Office Market Sees Unprecedented Uptake and Rental Surge Across Top Business Areas in Q3 2024

Dubai’s commercial office market is reaching new heights, with unprecedented demand driving occupancy rates and rental growth across prime business districts, as detailed in Savills Q3 2024 Dubai Office Market report. Driven by a substantial rise in new business registrations and expansion activities by existing firms, including those in finance and technology sectors, the city’s real estate landscape is more competitive than ever, positioning Dubai as a top global business destination.

According to the report, over 24,000 new businesses were registered in the first half of 2024, marking a 5% year-on-year growth. This surge underscores the strong economic momentum fuelled by the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33) and highlights the emirate’s reputation as a hub for international trade and innovation. Key business areas such as DIFC, Downtown, and Business Bay now boast occupancy rates between 95% and 97% reflecting robust demand for high quality office spaces. 

Average Grade A rental values surged by 25% year-on-year, with specific locations like Business Bay and Downtown experiencing jumps of 44% and 36%, respectively. DIFC’s premier properties lead the market, reporting rent increases as high as 25% while new developments such as DIFC Square and Immersive Tower are set to add over 10 million square feet of premium office space by 2028. 

“Dubai’s office market growth underscores its appeal as a global business hub, bolstered by ease of setup, favourable tax conditions, and a strategic location,” said Toby Hall, Head of Commercial Agency at Savills Middle East. “Businesses are establishing or expanding their presence here, recognising the value of high-quality office spaces that support talent attraction and growth. This demand signals further market evolution in the years ahead.”

Paula Walshe, Director of Transactional Services at Savills Middle East, added, “The unprecedented rental increases and high occupancy rates demonstrate Dubai’s standing as a premier destination for global business expansion. We’re seeing strong interest from international firms, especially in finance and technology, prioritising flexible office spaces to meet their ambitious growth targets and align with Dubai’s strategic vision.”

In addition, the rise of hybrid working models has led to a growing demand for flexible workspaces, with companies opting for open-plan layouts and co-working solutions like those offered by Executive Centre and Cloud Spaces. These spaces are particularly attractive for startups and new entrants seeking flexible lease terms and a rapid operational setup. 

Demand for office space is concentrated in areas with prime offerings, yet more affordable options are also experiencing significant rental increases, as seen in Dubai Science Park and Dubai Investments Park, which recorded a 37% year-on-year rise. Expo City is emerging as a competitive option, offering high-quality facilities with strong transport links at a lower price point than the central business districts. 

The report projects that this demand will continue through the year as more businesses set up in Dubai to take advantage of its strategic location, supportive business environment, and high-quality infrastructure. 

For further insights and detailed analysis, download the full Q3 2024 Dubai Office Market report here.

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