Home Blog Page 71

Historic Agreement: Visa-Free Travel Between Republic of Armenia and United Arab Emirates

By
Sahfy Sahfy
-
About Armenia Armenia, a country nestled in the Caucasus region, is a land of captivating landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality. This hidden gem offers a diverse array of experiences, from natural splendor to ancient treasures, modern adventures, and culinary delights. For more information about Armenia, please visit https://armenia.travel/ Historic Agreement: Visa-Free Travel Between Republic of Armenia and United Arab Emirates
Historic Agreement: Visa-Free Travel Between Republic of Armenia and United Arab Emirates

In a groundbreaking move, the United Arab Emirates announced the elimination of entry visa requirements for citizens of the Republic of Armenia, effective February 1, 2024. Starting from this date, citizens of the Republic of Armenia can seamlessly enter, exit, and transit through the United Arab Emirates without the need for an entry visa or associated fees. Armenia continues to offer a streamlined visa protocol for UAE passport holders, who can enjoy visa-free travel to Armenia for up to 180 days within a year. 

These protocols help to foster stronger ties and make exploration and cultural exchange between the two dynamic countries more accessible and enjoyable. It marks a new era of cooperation between Armenia and the United Arab Emirates, and will continue to create opportunities for tourism, and growth.

Sisian Boghossian, the Head of the Tourism Committee of Armenia, states “We are thrilled with the announcement of visa-free travel between Armenia and the United Arab Emirates, and we are optimistic that other countries will follow, unlocking a world of opportunities for tourism. We look forward to continuing to welcome our friends from the United Arab Emirates to Armenia, and to build stronger tourism ties with this wonderful country.”

Key Highlights:

  • Commencement Date: February 1, 2024
  • Visa Exemption: Republic of Armenia citizens can travel to the United Arab Emirates without entry visa requirements. 
  • Passport Validity: Ensure passport is valid for at least 6 months from arrival.
  • Stay Duration: maximum stay of 90 days is permitted within each 180-day period.

المحكمة الجنائية الدولية تعلن عن فتح رابط لتلقي معلومات عن جرائم الاحتلال

By
شمس سيف
-

وفقاً لمصدر صحفي أعلنت المحكمة الجنائية الدولية اليوم عن فتح رابط إلكتروني لتلقي معلومات عن جرائم الحرب المزعومة التي ارتكبت في الأراضي الفلسطينية منذ السابع من أكتوبر 2023.

ويشمل الرابط، الذي يمكن الوصول إليه من خلال الموقع الإلكتروني للمحكمة
https://www.justiceforall.org/icc-submissions/ مجموعة من الأسئلة التي تُطلب فيها من المشاركين تقديم معلومات حول الجرائم التي شهدوها أو سمعوا عنها. وتشمل هذه الأسئلة المعلومات حول هوية المشتبه بهم والضحايا، وطبيعة الجرائم المرتكبة، والظروف المحيطة بها.

وقالت المدعية العامة للمحكمة الجنائية الدولية، فاتو بنسودا، في بيان صدر اليوم: “تدعو المحكمة الجنائية الدولية جميع الأشخاص الذين لديهم معلومات عن جرائم الحرب في فلسطين إلى تقديمها من خلال هذا الرابط. فهذه المعلومات مهمة للغاية للتحقيق الذي تجريه المحكمة.”

وأضافت بنسودا: “تلتزم المحكمة الجنائية الدولية بملاحقة مرتكبي جرائم الحرب بغض النظر عن انتمائهم أو وضعهم. ونحن ندعو جميع الأطراف المعنية إلى التعاون مع التحقيق الذي تجريه المحكمة.”

ويُذكر أن المحكمة الجنائية الدولية بدأت تحقيقاً في جرائم الحرب في الأراضي الفلسطينية في مارس 2021. ويشمل التحقيق الجرائم التي ارتكبت منذ 13 يونيو 2014. كما رحب الفلسطينيون بقرار المحكمة الجنائية الدولية فتح رابط لتلقي معلومات عن جرائم الحرب في فلسطين. وقال رئيس الوزراء الفلسطيني، محمد اشتية، في بيان صدر اليوم: “هذا القرار هو خطوة مهمة في طريق تحقيق العدالة لضحايا الاحتلال الإسرائيلي

وقد اعربت إسرائيل عن رفضها للقرار. وقال وزير الخارجية الإسرائيلي، يائير لابيد، في بيان صدر اليوم: “إن قرار المحكمة الجنائية الدولية هو قرار سياسي وغير قانوني. ونحن لن نتعاون مع المحكمة في هذا التحقيق.”
وللمشاركة يمكن إرسال الشهادات سواء كانت صور أو فيديوهات أو وثائق وغيرها مما يوثق جرائم الإبادة الجماعية والتطهير العرقي التي يتعرض لها الشعب الفلسطيني في رسائل بالبريد الإلكتروني للقضاة العاملين في محكمة العدل الدولية:

1.البريد الإلكتروني للقاضي عبد القوي أحمد:
‏a.yusuf@icj-cij.org

2.البريد الإلكتروني للقاضي محمد بنونة :
‏M.bennona@icj-cij.org

3.البريد الإلكتروني للقاضي روني أبراهام:
‏r.abraham@icj-cij.org

4.البريد الإلكتروني للقاضي ب. تومكا:
‏P.tomka@icj-cij.org

5. البريد الإلكتروني للقاضي ليوناردو نمر كالديرا برانت:
‏Brant@icj-cij.org

6. البريد الإلكتروني للقاضية هيلاري تشارلزوورث:
‏h.charlesworth@icj-cij.org

7.البريد الإلكتروني للقاضي جورج نورتي:
‏g.nolte@icj-cij.org

8. البريد الإلكتروني للقاضي إيواساوا يوجي:
‏y.iwasawa@icj-cij.org

9.البريد الإلكتروني للقاضي نواف سلام:
‏n.salam@icj-cij.org

10.البريد الإلكتروني للقاضي باتريك ليبتون روبنسون:
‏p.robinson@icj-cij.org

11. البريد الإلكتروني للقاضي دالفير بهانداري:
‏d.bhandari@icj-cij.org

12.البريد الإلكتروني للقاضية جوليا سيبوتيندي:
‏j.sebutinde@icj-cij.org

13. البريد الإلكتروني للقاضي شيويه هانكين:
‏h.xue@icj-cij.org

14.البريد الإلكتروني للقاضي نائب الرئيس كيريل جيفورجيان:
‏k.gevorgian@icj-cij.org

15.البريد الإلكتروني للرئيس القاضي جوان دونوغو:
‏ j.donoghue@icj-cij.org

MAJID AL FUTTAIM BREAKS GROUND ACROSS TWO KEY PROJECTS AT ITS FLAGSHIP DESTINATION, TILAL AL GHAF

By
شمس سيف
-

Total contract value: AED 3 Billion

– Innovo Build LLC Secures Elysian Contract, Unec Leads Alaya Project

Dubai, UAE, 22 January 2024: Majid Al Futtaim Development, part of Majid Al Futtaim, has today announced the breaking of ground across two upcoming residential features in its flagship lifestyle destination, Tilal Al Ghaf. The contracts, totaling AED 3 Billion, have been awarded for Alaya and Elysian Mansions, with both neighbourhoods anticipated to be completed by mid-2026.

Majid Al Futtaim Development has named Innovo Build LLC, a part of the ASGC group, as the primary contractor for the development of Elysian Mansions. Elysian Mansions boasts a distinctive collection of customisable five-to-six-bedroom waterfront villas inspired by the Elysian Fields of Greek mythology. Designed by globally renowned architects and interior designers, Elysian stands as a bespoke community featuring 94 exclusive mansions that epitomize luxury. The essence of Elysian Mansions lies in the harmonious convergence of Art, Culture, Architecture, and Nature, all contributing to an enriched living experience. This unique development serves as a testament to the belief that these elements not only elevate the aesthetic appeal of homes but also profoundly enhance the quality of life for its residents. With living areas starting at 11,000 square feet, the technology-enabled homes are marked by luxurious design and sophisticated architecture, setting the community apart as a hallmark development with some of the most distinctive and thoughtful residences to date. Groundworks for the project have already concluded, and the contractor is actively working towards the targeted completion date of mid-2026.

The contract for Alaya, has been successfully awarded to Unec, a leading construction entity in the region. The project will span 26 months for a handover date of early 2026. Comprising 130 grand villas, the neighbourhood stretches across 200.000 sqm. Surrounded by spacious landscaped grounds, the premium grand villas, allow for additional privacy while still remaining connected to the community and its facilities. With customisable façade selections – including the Modernist or the bright Mediterranean – and extended Zen Suites, which can be tailored to accommodate for residents’ preferences, Alaya is set to further enhance Tilal Al Ghaf’s appeal as an exclusive resort-style community.

Hawazen Esber, Chief Executive Officer, Majid Al Futtaim Development, said: “Tilal Al Ghaf is a representation of our commitment to deliver human-centric lifestyle destinations that redefine the standards of residential living, and the construction of Elysian Mansions, Alaya, and Lagoon Al Ghaf will continue to pave the way towards delivering a holistic and high-end neighbourhood experience.

The two contractors have been uniquely awarded to suit the requirements of the individual projects, and we’re thrilled to be partnering with Innovo Build LLC and Unec, who share the capacity, expertise, and reputation to bring our vision to life, maintaining our rigorous sustainability standards and operational processes throughout every construction phase,” he added.

With over three million square metres of walkable neighbourhoods connected by a network of pathways, cycling tracks, jogging trails, and green spaces, Tilal Al Ghaf is Majid Al Futtaim Developments’ flagship mixed-use community, providing a contemporary resort-like living experience in the heart of new Dubai. Each neighbourhood features exceptional amenities to bring residents a healthy and exciting environment inspired by nature. With a dedicated customer-centric approach, Majid Al Futtaim Developments continues to deliver destinations that foster a sense of belonging, which, when paired with robust sustainability targets – such as being Dubai’s first BREEAM interim certified project – continues to set Tilal Al Ghaf apart as a leading lifestyle hub in the city.

FORMULA E STILL SETTING THE PACE IN GLOBAL SUSTAINABILITY RANKINGS‏

By
Sahfy Sahfy
-
FORMULA E STILL SETTING THE PACE IN GLOBAL SUSTAINABILITY RANKINGS
FORMULA E STILL SETTING THE PACE IN GLOBAL SUSTAINABILITY RANKINGS

Formula E has maintained its position as global leader for sustainability in sport, topping the Global Sustainability Benchmark in Sport (GSBS) report, the Sustainable Championships Index (SChI™), and the Sustainable Motorsport Index (SMI) once again.

GSBS, the independent sustainability rating organisation, named Formula E top in four of the five award categories for sustainable performance from amongst the world’s leading elite sporting organisations, published in its annual report this week.

The report included a comprehensive analysis of 55 of the most influential organisations in the sports industry, including: FC Barcelona, Manchester City FC, Real Madrid, the Premier League, Formula 1, NFL, WWE, Chicago Bulls, Boston Celtics, NY Yankees, Los Angeles Lakers, and UFC.

The GSBS assessment drew from nearly 500 organisations worldwide invited to participate in the initial assessment – including motorsport, football, tennis, American football, baseball, basketball, ice hockey, handball, and contact sports – representing the highest levels of Corporate, Environmental, Social and Governance (CESG) activity across professional sports. For the full report, visit GSBS Report.

Formula E was awarded Best Total Performance 2023 (jointly with Borussia Dortmund) for the second year running and was ranked highest in Best Corporate Performance, Best Social Performance, and Best Governance Performance.

Formula E also built on further success in the third edition of the SChI™, being crowned the most sustainable global motorsport for the third consecutive year.

The SChI™, an initiative run by Enovation Consulting, supported by University College London, assesses the sustainable performance of 106 motorsport championships. Assessments are carried out against six key markers of sustainability: Certifications, accreditations and awards, environmental criteria, social criteria, engagement and partnerships, and approaches to sustainability.

The ABB FIA Formula E World Championship significantly outperformed its competitors, securing four prestigious cups and clinching the leading position in the Index, surpassing the FIA Formula One World Championship.

The SMI is presently the only global performance system that measures publicly disclosed sustainability practices against the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals and the ESG framework in motorsports.

Julia Pallé, Vice President, Sustainability, Formula E said:

“We are proud to keep raising the bar in the global standard for sustainability in sport. Sustainability has been at the core of our championship since its inception, and we are determined to build on our commitment and capabilities year after year.

“Topping the charts once again reinforces that entertainment and sustainability can coexist without compromise. We urge the sports industry to continue working towards the highest level of sustainable operations and to use their influence to engage fans on the collective mission to combat climate change and social progress in line with the UN Sport 4 Climate action framework.”

Saudi Arabia to Host World Economic Forum Special Meeting in April 2024

By
Sahfy Sahfy
-
Saudi Arabia to Host World Economic Forum Special Meeting in April 2024
Saudi Arabia to Host World Economic Forum Special Meeting in April 2024

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will host a high-level World Economic Forum (WEF) Special Meeting that will focus on global cooperation, growth and energy, on 28-29 April 2024, in Riyadh.

Announced by His Excellency Faisal F. Alibrahim, Minister of Economy and Planning, and Børge Brende, World Economic Forum President, at the 54th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, the new event is part of a landmark agreement between Saudi Arabia and the Forum.

The gathering will convene more than 700 global leaders from the public and private sector, international organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), academia and civil society to foster dialogues between countries to revive international cooperation and address current challenges to growth and development.

Announcing the event, His Excellency Alibrahim said: “The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Riyadh is becoming a global capital for progress and thought leadership on the critical topics of our time.

“The World Economic Forum Special Meeting in Riyadh will focus on global collaboration, growth, and energy. We believe this new platform will enable the World Economic Forum, the Kingdom, and our global partners to further engage in cooperative dialogues and find the right answers to the challenges we have at hand.”

Børge Brende, President of the World Economic Forum, remarked, “At a time of growing divides between developed and emerging economies, there is a pressing need to not only identify areas of shared interests but foster new, impactful partnerships.

“As a critical player at the intersection of many of the world’s economies, Saudi Arabia is uniquely positioned to work alongside both developed and developing markets to foster cooperation between the two, and help them reach their long-term commerce, energy, and finance goals.”

Being hosted in Riyadh, the capital of the largest economy in the Middle East, a world-leading hub between Asia, Africa and Europe, and a midway point between the Global South and the Global North, the WEF Special Meeting will provide a platform for global leaders to assess current challenges and propose transformative ideas to create a positive global impact.

Following Saudi Arabia’s presidency of the G20 in 2020, and building on the long-standing partnership between Saudi Arabia and the World Economic Forum, this latest collaboration underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to continue shaping the future agenda, fostering international cooperation, and addressing global challenges.

Turki Alalshikh Spearheads Innovative ‘Boulevard Runway’ Project: A Fusion of Aviation and Entertainment in Riyadh

By
Sahfy Sahfy
-
Turki Alalshikh Spearheads Innovative 'Boulevard Runway' Project: A Fusion of Aviation and Entertainment in Riyadh
Turki Alalshikh Spearheads Innovative 'Boulevard Runway' Project: A Fusion of Aviation and Entertainment in Riyadh

Turki Alalshikh, the visionary Chairman of the General Entertainment Authority’s (GeA) Board of Directors, recently heralded the groundbreaking of the “Boulevard Runway” in Al Jadida, a key location in the Riyadh calendar. This innovative project underscores the synergy between the “Riyadh Season” and Saudi Airlines, introducing groundbreaking experiences centered around aviation.

This exciting development under Turki Alalshikh’s leadership was officially initiated following a Memorandum of Understanding. Key figures in this strategic alliance include Faisal Bafarat, CEO of the General Entertainment Authority, and Khaled Tash, Chief Marketing Officer of the Saudia Group. The ceremony was graced by the presence of Ibrahim bin Abdul Rahman Al-Omar, Director General of the Saudia Group. The “Boulevard Runway” is a unique blend of aviation and gastronomy, featuring diverse international culinary offerings. Additionally, it will encompass a variety of activities, including an extraordinary horror experience aboard an aircraft and an area dedicated to various games.

Turki Alalshikh and the Boulevard Runway

Under the guidance of Turki Alalshikh, the “Boulevard Runway” is set to offer an exceptional experience aboard stationary aircraft, elevating visitor enjoyment with a multitude of diverse activities. These aircraft are being specially outfitted to create a novel entertainment experience. Further details about this ambitious project, a testament to Turki Alalshikh’s innovative approach to entertainment in Saudi Arabia, are eagerly anticipated.

Turki Alalshikh’s vision for the “Boulevard Runway” extends beyond just entertainment; it represents a significant step in transforming Riyadh into a global entertainment hub. The project aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, an initiative aimed at diversifying the economy and enhancing the quality of life for its citizens. Under Turki Alalshikh’s stewardship, the GeA is not only boosting the entertainment sector but also contributing to the economic and cultural development of the country. The “Boulevard Runway,” with its unique fusion of aviation and entertainment, is poised to become a landmark attraction, drawing both local and international visitors. This project further cements Turki Alalshikh’s reputation as a dynamic leader in the realm of entertainment and cultural innovation.

Open Banking Market in Arab Countries Can Reach $1.17 bn according to Recent Fintech Report 2024

By
Sahfy Sahfy
-
Open Banking Market in Arab Countries Can Reach $1.17 bn according to Recent Fintech Report 2024
Open Banking Market in Arab Countries Can Reach $1.17 bn according to Recent Fintech Report 2024

The latest report by red_mad_robot paints a compelling picture of the future exploring fintech trends shaping the Middle East in 2024. Based on the comprehensive research, it predicts a remarkable 25% annual growth in the Open Banking market across Arab countries over the next five years, with the potential to soar to a staggering $1.17 billion.

Furthermore, the banking industry in the UAE has boldly committed to mobilizing over 1 trillion AED in sustainable financing by 2030, showcasing a dedication to driving financial practices toward a more environmentally and socially responsible future. The report also delves into the transformative impact of cutting-edge technologies such as blockchain and AI on the region’s fintech landscape.

The review serves as an invaluable resource for business enthusiasts, investors, and anyone keen on staying abreast of the evolving economic agenda in the Middle East.

Adoption of CBDC

According to the report, CBDCs are gaining global momentum as more countries research and develop projects, with integration into financial systems enabling cross- border transactions, retail payments, and innovative applications, while also improving financial inclusion and cross-border payments through smartphone access and reduced production costs for central banks.

Green Fintech and Sustainable Finance

Inspired by sustainability commitments during COP28, the review predicted an evolution towards green blockchains and eco-features in banks’ apps as a marketing solution. Additionally, fintech companies and banks are expected to incorporate Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices into their products and operations.

AI-Driven business and services

Governments in the Middle East are taking measures to support the growth of fintech payment ecosystems: the CBUAE has launched a regulatory framework for digital payment service providers, the UAE is promoting the adoption of AI through policies and initiatives such as the UAE AI & Robotics Award for Good. The market is anticipating AI-driven businesses and services, including AI regulation, the use of Generative AI, and the integration of AI capabilities into digital products.

Development of DeFi and Crypto

In 2024, the region is expected to focus on the tokenization of real estate, financial tools, and various asset classes. — this aims to expand export potential and attract new users and investments, and also to make the adaptation of stablecoins as payment methods both online and offline

The other key fintech trends mentioned in red_mad_robot’s report are:

  • Niche Fintech (focuses on serving products on targeted categories of consumers)
  • Upgraded security (the spread of biometric authentication)

To download the full report and gain insights, please visit:

https://www.redmadrobot.com/expertise/fintech-trends-in-2024

Intersec 2024: ChatGPT AI App Security and Safety in the Spotlight

By
Sahfy Sahfy
-
Intersec 2024: ChatGPT AI App Security and Safety in the Spotlight
Intersec 2024: ChatGPT AI App Security and Safety in the Spotlight

The complex security risks and governance challenges associated with the widespread adoption of Generative AI, such as ChatGPT, by organisations operating in the UAE and the Middle East

were discussed during the Intersec 2024 Cyber Security Conference, hosted by the UAE Cyber Security Council, which continued today at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC).

According to Gartner, the primary ChatGPT risks related to the security landscape data are privacy & confidentiality and cyber fraud risks. Garner highlighted that any information entered into ChatGPT, if chat history is not disabled, may become a part of its training dataset, for example.

The session sheds light on the existing landscape of governance and regulations within the UAE and the Middle East. Emphasis was placed on UAE’s National Strategy for AI 2031, particularly its governance objectives to enhance cybersecurity in AI deployment. Specific policies and initiatives pertinent to the region were thoroughly addressed.

During the conference, Faheem Siddiqui, Group Director – Information Security, Majid Al Futtaim, said: “It is imperative for organisations to not only understand the security risks inherent in adopting Generative AI but also proactively establish robust compliance frameworks. The convergence of technical innovation, ethical considerations, and regulatory alignment is pivotal in cultivating an accountable and transparent AI landscape in the Middle East.”

As hosts of the Cyber Security Conference, His Excellency Dr Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Head of the UAE Cyber Security Council, said: “Intersec celebrates a major milestone in 2024 and the UAE Cyber Security Council is proud to support efforts to develop and further grow cyber awareness across the global security sectors at the 25th edition of the show. Hosting the 3rd annual Cyber Security Conference, The UAE Cyber Security Council works closely with the show team to deliver new and innovative content areas, awareness sessions, and workshops, along with encouraging start-ups to flourish in cyberspace. We look forward to our continued growth and strategic partnership with Messe Frankfurt Middle East and Intersec.’

Aside from the conference, Intersec 2024 welcomes 34 cyber security exhibitors, a 10% increase from the 2023 edition of the show, each showcasing industry-specific solutions, including the Cyber Security Council, Fortinet, Alpha Data, Cisco, Morohub, Dell, Malcrove and Manage Engine.

A notable feature of Intersec 2024, In{cyber}, is dedicated exclusively to cybersecurity, presenting cutting-edge solutions and fostering connections among global experts and innovators.

Grant Tuchten, Portfolio Director at Intersec organiser Messe Frankfurt Middle East, said: “in{:cyber} 2024 is an extraordinary initiative at Intersec 2024, supported by the esteemed UAE Cyber Security Council. This groundbreaking event is a convergence point for top cybersecurity companies, CISOs, and cyber professionals, fostering collaborations and sparking discussions on cutting-edge trends. 

“Our unwavering commitment to fortifying digital security propels us towards transformative opportunities, safeguarding the UAE’s digital landscape and extending our impact globally.”

Also at in{:cyber} 2024, the purpose-built Future Defenders Hack Arena,  hosted by Malcrove CTF.ae, caters to various groups, from school students to CISOs, allowing participants to showcase their expertise across diverse cybersecurity domains, including web exploitation, digital forensics, cryptography, exploit development, and reverse engineering. 

Powered by Unipreneur Inc, the Intersec Innovators Arena (IIA) provides a space for SMEs to showcase products to potential investors and offers a rich conference programme covering topics such as the role of startups in cyber security development and enhancing employment and emaratisation in the cyber security industry.

Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor Bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, this milestone edition of Intersec celebrates a quarter-century of innovation in security technology with an estimated 45,000 visitors and 1,050 local and international exhibiting companies. The event focuses on tailored solutions for various sectors, including Commercial & Perimeter Security, Homeland Security & Policing, Fire & Rescue, Safety & Health, and Cyber Security, promoting innovation and connectivity across industries.

The latest Intersec 2024 news stories are available https://intersec.ae.messefrankfurt.com/dubai/en/press.html. 

Forbes Middle East’s Under 30 Summit Inspires The Leaders Of The Future

By
Sahfy Sahfy
-
Forbes Middle East’s Under 30 Summit Inspires The Leaders Of The Future
Forbes Middle East’s Under 30 Summit Inspires The Leaders Of The Future

 Forbes Middle East has concluded its sold-out second annual Under 30 Summit, which was held on January 11-14 in the beautiful community of El Gouna, Egypt. With over 1,500 VIP attendees, expert speakers, young entrepreneurs, policy-makers, celebrities, and business leaders in attendance, the summit explored building the leaders of tomorrow, investing in innovation, the art of design thinking and storytelling, building sustainable startups for a better world, the technologies supercharging product development, and nurturing mental health, diversity, and inclusion.

Khuloud Al Omian, CEO and Editor-in-Chief of Forbes Middle East, emphasized the values at the heart of the summit. “It has been an incredible couple of days celebrating the young professionals and entrepreneurs developing ideas to change the world for the better. It is so inspiring to see so many people come together and create such impactful bonds,” she added. “El Gouna has been a wonderful host, and I’m so proud of our Under 30 community. I look forward to witnessing their future successes.”

The summit’s packed agenda featured panel discussions, interviews, and presentations. These included insights from: Anas Bukhash, entrepreneur and interviewer; Rascha Ragheb, Executive Director of the National Training Academy of Egypt; Leila Serhan, Senior Vice President & Group Country Manager for North Africa, the Levant, and Pakistan at Visa; Al Walid Hallani, singer; Menna ElKiey, lyricist, writer, and Creative Director; Aladdin ElAfifi, CEO of EFG Finance; Ramy Radwan, TV presenter; Ahmed Tarek, Co-CEO and Partner at the Tarek Nour Group; Kareem Hassan, Executive Director at the UN-ESCWA Technology Center for Development; and Mohamed Shelbaya, CEO of PepsiCo Egypt & North Africa.

Mohamed Amer, CEO of El Gouna, commented: “We are proud of the success that the second edition of the Forbes Middle East Under 30 Summit has achieved.  This year saw special workshops and discussions that contributed to creating a collaborative environment and providing inspiring models. Continuing to organize such events is a testament to our commitment to providing the opportunity and platform for innovative young minds in the region to exchange experiences.”

As the summit came to a close, attendees gathered to network and enjoy live entertainment, as well as a stunning recognition ceremony that celebrated the innovators from Forbes Middle East’s 30 Under 30 list 2023.

Forbes Middle East worked with a number of esteemed partners to bring this event to life: host partner El Gouna Red Sea by Orascom Development; support partners EFG Holding and Meta; event partners Vi Markets, She’s Next by Visa, Prypco, and Zouni Beach Mangroovy El Gouna; official transportation partner Abou Ghaly Motors; communication & PR partners Influence Communications and NABD; connectivity partner Orange; gift partner Parkville Pharmaceuticals; and official beverage partner PepsiCo.

More details on the discussions held can be found on the Forbes Middle East website:

 

Forbes Middle East Unveils the Middle East’s Top 100 CEOs 2023

By
Sahfy Sahfy
-
Forbes Middle East Unveils the Middle East’s Top 100 CEOs 2023
Forbes Middle East Unveils the Middle East’s Top 100 CEOs 2023

Forbes Middle East has released its third annual list of the Top 100 CEOs in the Middle East, spotlighting the business heads that are running the region’s biggest and most influential homegrown companies. Combined, the 100 CEOs managed revenues of over $1 trillion in 2022. Their firms are collectively worth more than $5 trillion.

Amin H. Nasser, President and CEO of the world’s largest crude oil producer Saudi Aramco, topped the ranking. ADNOC Group’s Sultan Al Jaber and Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group rounded up the top three spots. These three executives have retained their ranking for the third consecutive year.

The 2023 cohort represents leaders from 22 nationalities. Emiratis dominated with 23 entries, followed by Egyptians with 19 and Saudis with 18. These three groups comprise 60% of the ranking, signaling positive momentum for localization. With 17 CEOs, the banking sector claimed the most entries, followed closely by real estate and construction with 14 and telecommunications with nine. Among the top 10 alone, six different industries are represented, illustrating the sector diversity in top leadership.

Against the recurring priority of sustainability this year, the leaders on this ranking have accelerated their corporate sustainability measures to align with global commitments. Majid Al Futtaim – Holding’s Ahmed Galal Ismail led the group to achieve an 82% reduction in single-use plastic consumption in the first half of 2023. At the COP28 held in Dubai, ADNOC Group’s Sultan Al Jaber served as the president-designate of this year’s climate change conference for global transformative climate action. Meanwhile, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority’s (DEWA) Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer intends to increase its water desalination capacity to 730 million imperial gallons per day by 2030, up from 490 million in 2023.

To construct this ranking, Forbes Middle East assessed the CEOs using various metrics, including the individual’s accomplishments and implemented innovations over the past year, size of their company, and their impact on their firm and the wider industry. Only CEOs of companies headquartered in MENA were considered. 

Top 10 CEOs In The Middle East 2023

1- Amin H. Nasser

Nationality: Saudi

President & CEO, Saudi Aramco

2- Sultan Al Jaber

Nationality: Emirati

Group CEO & Managing Director, ADNOC Group

3- Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum

Nationality: Emirati

Chairman & Chief Executive, Emirates Airline & Group

4- Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi

Nationality: Qatari

Deputy Chairman, President & CEO, QatarEnergy

5- Isam Jasem Al-Sager

Nationality: Kuwaiti

Vice Chairman & Group CEO, National Bank of Kuwait (NBK Group)

6- Nawaf S. Al-Sabah

Nationality: Kuwaiti

Deputy Chairman & CEO, Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC)

7- Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem

Nationality: Emirati

Group Chairman & CEO, DP World 

8- Olayan Alwetaid

Nationality: Saudi

Group CEO, stc Group

9- Syed Basar Shueb

Nationality: Emirati

CEO & Managing Director, International Holding Company (IHC)

10- Hatem Dowidar

Nationality: Egyptian

Group CEO, e&

1...707172...90Page 71 of 90

EVEN MORE NEWS

POPULAR CATEGORY

©