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DUBAI BASKETBALL PARTNERS WITH BAUERFEIND TO ELEVATE HIGH-PERFORMANCE ATHLETE CARE IN THE UAE

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Sahfy Sahfy
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DUBAI BASKETBALL PARTNERS WITH BAUERFEIND TO ELEVATE HIGH-PERFORMANCE ATHLETE CARE IN THE UAE
DUBAI BASKETBALL PARTNERS WITH BAUERFEIND TO ELEVATE HIGH-PERFORMANCE ATHLETE CARE IN THE UAE

Dubai Basketball has announced a new strategic partnership for the 2025/26 season with Bauerfeind, the global leader in sports medicine and orthopaedic support, bringing world-class performance, protection and recovery expertise into the UAE’s high-performance professional basketball ecosystem.

Bauerfeind is an internationally recognised healthcare brand specialising in innovative medical and sports solutions, with decades of expertise in movement science. Designing and manufacturing high-quality braces, supports and compression products trusted by elite-level athletes worldwide, the company is a long-standing partner of high-performance sport. Bauerfeind is also an official medical support partner of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games, continuing a twenty-year association with the Olympic movement and supporting athletes competing at the highest level of international competition.

Through this partnership, Bauerfeind brings its global expertise into Dubai Basketball’s high-performance environment, supporting the club’s continued rise as the city’s first professional sports team competing in two international leagues – the EuroLeague and ABA League. Bauerfeind will provide professional trauma items and start-up kits containing performance and recovery products tailored to the physical demands of professional basketball. The partnership also places a strong emphasis on recovery and injury prevention, with all solutions guided by evidence-based sports medicine principles and adapted to the individual athlete.

As Dubai Basketball rapidly establishes itself among the leading teams in the region, the collaboration reinforces the club’s ambition to operate at the highest international standards and reflect the region’s broader ambition to develop a world-class sports ecosystem underpinned by excellence in athlete care, sports science and performance infrastructure.

Established in the Middle East in 2008, Bauerfeind Middle East serves the UAE, GCC and North African markets, working closely with healthcare professionals, athletes and institutions to deliver German-engineered, evidence-based medical solutions. The partnership with Dubai Basketball further reinforces Bauerfeind’s long-standing commitment to advancing professional sport and athlete care across the region.

Karl Schmidt, Regional Director, Bauerfeind Middle East and Africa, said “Basketball is one of the most physically demanding sports, where performance, resilience, and long-term health must work in balance. This partnership with Dubai Basketball is not just about support on game day; it’s about standing with athletes through every training session, every recovery, and every return to the court. We are proud to partner with Dubai Basketball and to contribute to Dubai’s vision of developing a high-performance professional sports ecosystem. Through this collaboration, we are bringing decades of medical and sports science expertise, reinforcing our commitment to protecting movement and supporting elite-level performance at the highest standards.”

Nick Oakley, Co-Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Basketball, said “Partnering with Bauerfeind brings together two organisations that share a deep commitment to performance and long-term excellence. Bauerfeind’s global leadership in sports medicine strengthens our high-performance environment and reflects Dubai Basketball’s ambition to align with the very best in international sport.”

The partnership is being activated throughout the 2025/26 season, with Bauerfeind integrated into the club’s performance and recovery programmes, alongside targeted arena and digital activations designed to support athlete care and brand visibility.

GOURMET EGYPT.COM FOR FOOD PRODUCTS GOURMET ANNOUNCES ITS INTENTION TO FLOAT ON THE EGYPTIAN EXCHANGE EGX

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Sahfy Sahfy
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GOURMET EGYPT.COM FOR FOOD PRODUCTS GOURMET ANNOUNCES ITS INTENTION TO FLOAT ON THE EGYPTIAN EXCHANGE EGX
GOURMET EGYPT.COM FOR FOOD PRODUCTS GOURMET ANNOUNCES ITS INTENTION TO FLOAT ON THE EGYPTIAN EXCHANGE EGX

Gourmet Egypt.Com for Food Products (“Gourmet” or “GE” or the “Company”), a leading premium grocery retailer, today announced its intention to proceed with an initial public offering (the “IPO” or the “Offering”) of its ordinary shares on the Egyptian Exchange (“EGX”).

The Offering is expected to consist of a secondary sale of up to 190,516,824 existing ordinary shares, representing 47.6% of the Company’s issued share capital, by B Investments Holding S.A.E (“B Investments”), Basem Abu Ghazaleh, Jalal Abu Ghazaleh, Deema Abu Ghazaleh and Amgad Sultan (together with B Investments, the “Selling Shareholders”), while B Investments will remain invested in the Company with a 40% stake, demonstrating confidence in the business moving forward.

The Offering will include (i) a private tranche to qualified investors in Egypt (“Private Tranche”) and (ii) a public tranche open for public subscription in Egypt (“Public Tranche”) (collectively the “Combined Offering”). Details of the Combined Offering are outlined in the Offering Highlights section, below.

Both the Private Tranche and Public Tranche will be offered at the same price per share (the “Offer Price”). The Offer Price will be determined through a book building process.

Gourmet is currently in the process of obtaining the required approvals with regards to the Offering, including approval of the public subscription notice (the “PSN”) and any other approvals from the Financial Regulatory Authority (“FRA”) and the Egyptian Exchange. Completion of the Combined Offering and commencement of trading is expected to take place in February 2026, subject to market conditions and the timely receipt of the relevant regulatory approvals.

Commenting on the Offering, the Company’s Chairman, Michael Wright, said: “The IPO of Gourmet marks a major milestone in the Company’s journey and sets the stage for the next phase of our growth. We remain committed to strengthening Gourmet’s brand equity by consistently delivering on our promise of excellence and quality. As we look to the future, we are focused on scaling the business while staying true to the core principles that define the Gourmet brand — innovation, authenticity, and dedication to our customers.”

The UAE FoodTech Challenge 2026 Winners to Join National Agri-Tech Ecosystem and Support Global Food Security

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Sahfy Sahfy
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The third edition of the UAE FoodTech Challenge, a global competition that identifies and scales the world’s most promising agri-tech innovations, concluded at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week with the announcement of four winning startups:

Permia Sensing uses AI, bioacoustic sensors and drone imaging to monitor tree health. Already covering over 15,000 hectares of palm plantations in Sri Lanka, the technology offers early detection of stress factors, such as dehydration and pest infestations, enabling farmers to boost yields and reduce waste. They now plan to work with local partners to finesse and localize their solution for the UAE and scale its application across the Middle East.

HyveGeo turns agricultural waste into a carbon-rich biochar, then enriches it with microbes to create a high-performance soil enhancer. This circular, nature-based approach is already being used by farmers and landscape managers across the UAE, transforming arid, desert soil into fertile, arable land. As winners, they plan to expand their research and launch pilots in markets across the Global South.

Akorn Technology produces a natural, edible coating for fruit and vegetables, including a vegetable protein to slow ripening, a wax to reduce moisture loss, and a vegetable oil to maintain color. Their solution is already being used in Egypt and Ghana to extend the shelf life of produce and cut post-harvest losses, and will now be optimized for use in the UAE and arid environments across the region.

Flybox uses black soldier fly larvae to convert agricultural byproducts into high-quality protein and  fertilizer, whilereducing waste sent to landfill. Housed in shipping containers, their off-grid, low-cost solution is currently being used in Uganda, Kenya and Nigeria, and will now launch in the UAE, with plans for working with local waste management partners to deploy at scale.

From an initial pool of 1,215 submissions from 113 countries, ten finalists advanced to the final stage of the competition, presenting their solutions in live pitches to an international judging panel comprising senior leaders and experts in food systems, sustainability, investment, and international development. Following evaluation, the four winning startups were announced during an awards ceremony on the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week main stage.

Rima Al Mokarrab, Chair of Tamkeen and Co-Chair of the FoodTech Challenge, remarked:

“Building resilient and secure food systems is central to the UAE’s long-term vision for a prosperous future. The latest winners of the UAE FoodTech Challenge now join a growing community of past awardees, who have since raised over USD 48 million in follow-on funding and launched more than 50 pilot projects across the UAE and other markets. As they begin this next phase of their journey, support from our network of partners and UAE’s world-class innovation ecosystem will serve as a launchpad for their solutions, enabling them to contribute to more resilient and sustainable food systems in the UAE, the global south, and worldwide.”

The four teams will share a USD 2 million prize and will be invited to scale their solutions in the UAE, where they will receive tailored in-kind support, including pilot opportunities, access to research facilities, market-entry guidance, mentorship, and investor introductions through an extensive network of local and international partners. From this base, the winners will work to deploy and scale their solutions across key markets in the Global South, supporting more resilient and sustainable food systems.

Fatema Almulla, Senior Specialist Development, International Affairs Office at the UAE Presidential Court, said:

“The UAE plays a leading role in international development, with agricultural innovation central to its global engagement. Through the UAE FoodTech Challenge, winning startups are embedded within a proven development ecosystem; where advanced technologies, policy leadership, and global expertise come together to accelerate solutions from pilot to scale. This is how innovation is translated into measurable impact, from the UAE to climate-vulnerable regions worldwide.” 

This year’s FoodTech Challenge is organized by the International Affairs Office at the UAE Presidential Court and Tamkeen, in partnership with the Gates Foundation, ne’ma (The National Food Loss and Waste Initiative), and Silal. The finalist cohort represents a diverse range of approaches to food system innovation, including advanced technologies for post-harvest preservation, waste-to-value conversion, precision agriculture, and resource-efficient food production.

Shelly Sundberg, Deputy Director of Adaptive and Equitable Food Systems at the Gates Foundation, said:

“The UAE FoodTech Challenge plays an important role in advancing practical, scalable, and accessible solutions that can strengthen food security across underserved and climate-vulnerable populations. At the Gates Foundation, we are proud to support initiatives that translate innovation into real-world impact, helping food systems reduce loss, improve sustainability, and expand access to safe, affordable and nutritious food. These are essential to building more resilient food systems in the face of climate and economic pressures.”

Khuloud Nowais, Chief Sustainability Officer at Emirates Foundation and Secretary General of the ne’ma Steering Committee, said:

“Seeing the caliber of this year’s winners and the diversity of their solutions has been truly inspiring. As a judge, it has been encouraging to witness the growing sophistication of solutions that address food loss and waste challenges. At ne’ma, we are proud to support initiatives that turn ideas into actionable, lasting impact for food systems.”

The UAE FoodTech Challenge identifies and accelerates agri-food technology solutions that boost food production and reduce food loss and waste in arid and increasingly climate-stressed environments. Attracting technology-driven innovations that can be refined in the UAE and scaled internationally, the competition directly supports the UAE’s long-term food security ambitions and contributes to global food system resilience.

To learn more about the FoodTech Challenge, visit: www.foodtechchallenge.com

Zayed Award for Human Fraternity Announces 2026 Honorees

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Sahfy Sahfy
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Zayed Award for Human Fraternity Announces 2026 Honorees
Zayed Award for Human Fraternity Announces 2026 Honorees

The Zayed Award for Human Fraternity announced today the honorees of the prize’s 2026 edition: the historic peace agreement between the Republic of Armenia and the Republic of Azerbaijan, and Afghan girls’ education advocate Zarqa Yaftali – marking the first award recipients from the Caucasus and Afghanistan, respectively.

A landmark decision guided by visionary leadership toward ending decades of conflict and humanitarian suffering in the Caucasus, the Agreement on Establishment of Peace and Inter-State Relations between the Republic of Armenia and the Republic of Azerbaijan is being honored as a process of peace, dialogue, normalization, and conflict resolution undertaken by the two states, which underscores that reconciliation is not a single act, but a sustained journey.

A woman of courage with a lifelong dedication to protecting the right to education for women and children, Ms. Zarqa Yaftali is being honored for providing educational resources, psychosocial support, and community-based services to over 100,000 people in Afghanistan and beyond – providing hope and knowledge to girls living in restrictive environments.

H.E. Nikol Pashinyan, Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia, called the award a “great honor” in recognition of the efforts undertaken to help establish peace in the Caucasus region, and a sincere acknowledgement of everyone who contributed to bringing this historic agreement to fruition.

H.E. Pashinyan expressed confidence that this recognition will have a tangible impact both within Armenia and beyond, and will contribute to strengthening trust between Armenia and Azerbaijan, emphasizing that this historic shared moment of recognition is of great significance and will support the path to peace.

He stressed that this achievement is not the result of an individual effort, but rather the outcome of collective work involving many inside and outside Armenia, adding that the essence of this achievement is due, first and foremost, to Armenia’s political team, government, parliament, and the society that supports the peace agreement. “That we [Armenia and Azerbaijan] are sharing this award reflects a mutual and collective achievement,” H.E. Pashinyan added.

H.E. Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, expressed his appreciation for the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity’s recognition of the peace agreement and extended his gratitude to the 2026 award judging committee for honoring efforts to establish peace in the South Caucasus region and the world.

H.E. Aliyev noted that the recognition holds special significance as the award bears the name of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, founder of the United Arab Emirates, in addition to the support of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, head of the Catholic Church, and His Eminence Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, making the recognition by this global award a “double honor.”

For her part, Zarqa Yaftali said she felt “deeply excited and overwhelmed with emotion,” expressing sincere gratitude to the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity judging committee.

Ms. Yaftali said that being selected as a 2026 honoree represents “a powerful and meaningful message” for women in Afghanistan, bringing hope and encouragement to many Afghan women—especially students in online schools and young women enrolled in peace, security, and leadership courses.

The 2026 honorees were selected by an independent global judging committee composed of distinguished figures and experts in dialogue and coexistence, namely: former President of the European Council and former Prime Minister of Belgium His Excellency Charles Michel, former Chairperson of the African Union Commission and former Prime Minister of Chad His Excellency Moussa Faki Mahamat, UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell, Head of the Administration of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Her Excellency Saida Mirziyoyeva, Prefect of the Dicastery for Culture and Education at the Holy See His Eminence Cardinal José Tolentino de Mendonça, and Secretary-General of the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity His Excellency Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam.

H.E. Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, judging committee member and Secretary-General of the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity, said: “This year, the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity committee selected the historic peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan, which embody the award’s mission and objectives in promoting and fostering a culture of dialogue and coexistence, marking a pivotal milestone in advancing global peace and a major diplomatic achievement – turning the page on nearly four decades of tension and conflict in the Caucasus and laying a strong foundation for a safer, shared future for both peoples.”

For her part, UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell said: “The committee was honored to recognize Ms. Zarqa Yaftali for her tireless efforts and leadership to protecting Afghan girls’ right to education and advancing women’s empowerment, despite facing tremendous challenges.”

H.E. Saida Mirziyoyeva affirmed that the announcement of the 2026 honorees embodies a global moral commitment to the principles of peace and human dignity. She emphasized that this recognition conveys a renewed message of hope to the international community and reaffirms the capacity of human fraternity to foster meaningful and enduring change.

The 2026 recipients will be honored on February 4, 2026 – coinciding with UN-recognized International Day of Human Fraternity – at the annual award ceremony, to be held at the Founder’s Memorial in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, at 7 p.m. UAE time. The ceremony will be livestreamed on the award’s social media channels: Zayed Award for Human Fraternity – YouTube

 

Inspired by the signing of the Document on Human Fraternity by the late His Holiness Pope Francis, 266th head of the Catholic Church, and His Eminence Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, in Abu Dhabi in 2019 and the humanitarian legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, founder of the United Arab Emirates, the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity recognizes individuals and organizations for outstanding contributions to building a more peaceful, harmonious, and compassionate world based on the values of human fraternity.

Since 2019, the award has honored 19 recipients from 19 countries:  His Holiness Pope Francis (honorary recipient); Grand Imam of Al-Azhar Ahmed Al-Tayeb (honorary recipient); UN Secretary-General António Guterres; French-Moroccan activist against extremism Latifa Ibn Ziaten; Their Majesties King Abdullah II bin Al Hussein and Queen Rania Al Abdullah of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan; Haitian humanitarian organization the Foundation for Knowledge and Liberty (FOKAL); Italian organization the Community of Sant’Egidio; Kenyan peacebuilder Shamsa Abubakar Fadhil; Indonesian charitable organizations Nahdlatul Ulama and Muhammadiyah; Egyptian world-renowned cardiac surgeon Professor Sir Magdi Yacoub; Chilean NGO founder Sister Nelly León Correa; Prime Minister of Barbados the Honorable Mia Amor Mottley; American food relief organization World Central Kitchen; and Ethiopian-American teenage health innovator Heman Bekele.

Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Autism Program And Arthur D. Little Publish Landmark Study On Autism Prevalence Among Children In Saudi Arabia

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Sahfy Sahfy
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Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Autism Program And Arthur D. Little Publish Landmark Study On Autism Prevalence Among Children In Saudi Arabia
Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Autism Program And Arthur D. Little Publish Landmark Study On Autism Prevalence Among Children In Saudi Arabia

The Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Autism Program, Ministry of Defense,  of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, in collaboration with global consultancy Arthur D. Little (ADL), has published a comprehensive study examining the estimated prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) among children in the Kingdom. The peer-reviewed journal paper published in the Saudi Medical Journal  suggests that prevalence may range between 1.70 percent and 1.75 percent – significantly higher than the currently cited figure of 0.6 percent.

Titled Estimating Autism Prevalence Among Children in KSA: A Comprehensive Multisource Benchmarking Approach, the white paper applies a structured analysis of international and regional data to provide a more realistic estimate of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) prevalence in the Kingdom. It integrates recent peer-reviewed Saudi research, including the largest national meta-analysis to date, and compares findings against global benchmarks from countries with mature healthcare systems and advanced ASD monitoring infrastructure. By adjusting for local factors such as population structure, healthcare access, and diagnostic practices, the study offers a calibrated view of autism prevalence that reflects the unique context of Saudi Arabia. Its goal is to support more accurate policy planning, promote early detection, and help build a more inclusive, equitable framework for autism care aligned with Vision 2030.

Dr. Waleed Alhazzani, director of the Center of Excellence for Health Science Research at the Ministry of Defense
Dr. Waleed Alhazzani, director of the Center of Excellence for Health Science Research at the Ministry of Defense

“Addressing autism through a national lens requires a clear understanding of its prevalence across populations. This study provides valuable baseline estimates and highlights the need for stronger, locally generated data to inform care and policy. The work of our colleagues at the Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Autism Center reflects a commendable effort to consolidate available evidence and bring greater visibility to an important public health issue in the Kingdom.”  said Dr. Waleed Alhazzani, director of the Center of Excellence for Health Science Research at the Ministry of Defense, who was not among the study’s authors

The analysis draws on data from countries with well-established autism surveillance systems – including the United Kingdom, United States, Denmark, South Korea, and Italy – each offering unique insights into how screening intensity, diagnostic thresholds, and health system maturity influence reported prevalence. To ensure regional relevance, the study also incorporates data from the UAE, Qatar, and Jordan. These countries share cultural and demographic similarities with Saudi Arabia and face comparable challenges in terms of underreporting and service accessibility. By adjusting for structural and systemic differences across these markets, the study delivers a tailored estimate grounded in international best practices yet reflective of the Saudi healthcare and social landscape.

“Reliable data is essential for delivering real impact,” said Dr. Patrick Linnenbank, Partner, healthcare practice at Arthur D. Little Middle East. “This study contributes to a clearer understanding of autism prevalence in the Kingdom and offers a constructive foundation for enhancing screening, diagnosis, and support.”

 

The report encourages decision-makers to prioritise continued investment in early detection efforts, expand the reach of national screening programs, and address geographic disparities that limit access to diagnosis and care in areas outside major cities. It also underscores the role of public awareness and community engagement in reducing the social stigma often associated with autism diagnoses. Together, these steps are critical to ensuring that more children receive timely support – and that families, educators, and healthcare professionals are equipped to respond with confidence and compassion.

To view the journal paper click HERE.

To Expand the Beneficiary Base of Innovative Financing Solutions: National Bank of Egypt (NBE) Grants Short-Term Financing to U Consumer Finance ..Valu 

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Sahfy Sahfy
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To Expand the Beneficiary Base of Innovative Financing Solutions: National Bank of Egypt (NBE) Grants Short-Term Financing to U Consumer Finance ..Valu 
To Expand the Beneficiary Base of Innovative Financing Solutions: National Bank of Egypt (NBE) Grants Short-Term Financing to U Consumer Finance ..Valu 

The National Bank of Egypt (NBE) announced the signing of a short-term financing agreement worth up to EGP 3 billion for U Consumer Finance, known under the trademark of “Valu”, Egypt’s universal financial technology powerhouse. This comes as part of NBE’s support for the non-banking financial sector, the promotion of financial inclusion, and the expansion of the beneficiary base for innovative financing solutions.

The signing was attended by Soha El-Turky and Yehia Abou El-Fotouh, Deputy Chief Executive Officers of the National Bank of Egypt and Walid Hassouna, Chief Executive Officer of Valu, along with the teams of both entities.

Following the signing, Soha El-Turky, Deputy CEO of the National Bank of Egypt, stated that this financing reflects NBE’s confidence in Valu’s business model and its pivotal role in developing the consumer finance ecosystem in the Egyptian market. El-Turky emphasized the bank’s commitment to supporting entities capable of providing innovative and responsible financial solutions that stimulate local demand and enhance financial inclusion, aligning with the bank’s strategy for sustainable economic growth. El-Turky added that this credit facility is part of NBE’s orientation toward strengthening partnerships with leading institutions in the non-banking financial sector to ensure financing flexibility and business sustainability. El-Turky noted that supporting companies like Valu helps broaden the scope of modern financing solutions while remaining fully committed to regulatory frameworks and professional standards. El-Turky further pointed out that this funding will finance Valu’s ongoing operations until the completion of new bond issuance procedures, ensuring the company’s business sustainability and enhancing its ability to meet the growing demand for consumer finance services in Egypt.

Walid Hassouna, CEO of Valu, expressed his delight in collaborating with the National Bank of Egypt, describing it as a strategic partner that supports the company’s expansion plans and enhances its ability to meet customer needs. He added that the financing provides the company with the necessary flexibility to manage operations efficiently during the current phase and supports future plans for growth and diversifying funding sources. Hassouna underscored the company’s appreciation for the trust placed in it by NBE, noting that the cooperation between the two parties has spanned since the company’s founding, as NBE is one of the company’s most primary banks and a fundamental partner in its journey.

Founded in 2017 as an Egyptian joint-stock company and a subsidiary of EFG Holding, Valu is one of the leading comprehensive fintech companies in Egypt. It holds a significant market share, supported by its ongoing ability to develop services and provide diverse financing solutions that meet customer needs, in accordance with regulations issued by the Financial Regulatory Authority (FRA).

Golden Compass Announces Thara Future Investments as a Strategic Investor to Support Its Transformation into a National Champion Mining Services Company

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Sahfy Sahfy
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Golden Compass Announces Thara Future Investments as a Strategic Investor to Support Its Transformation into a National Champion Mining Services Company

Golden Compass Announces Thara Future Investments as a Strategic Investor to Support Its Transformation into a National Champion Mining Services Company

Golden Compass for Mining Services, one of Saudi Arabia’s leading providers of mining services and geological consultancy, jointly owned by Naif Alrajhi Investment and Rasi Investment, has announced the signing of a strategic partnership agreement with Thara Future Investments, marking a significant step toward building a fully integrated national mining services champion in the Kingdom. Under the agreement, Thara Future Investments will acquire a strategic equity stake in Golden Compass, supporting the company’s next phase of growth and long-term value creation. 

The partnership was announced during the fifth edition of the Future Minerals Forum, held in Riyadh from January 13 to 15. It reflects the partners’ shared commitment to advancing Saudi Arabia’s mining sector as a core pillar of the national economy and a key contributor to industrial development and diversification.

In light of this strategic partnership, Golden Compass plans to implement an ambitious expansion strategy aimed at strengthening its leadership position in the mining sector. The plan includes investments in infrastructure, the enhancement of human capital, digitalization, and the further development of the company’s service portfolio.

The strategy also encompasses the expansion of drilling rigs, the establishment of a specialized data center, and the development of a state-of-the-art geochemical laboratory in partnership with the world’s leading analytical services provider, in line with the highest international standards.

In addition, the plan includes expanding the heavy equipment fleet and investing in the training of specialized national talent, reinforcing Golden Compass’s position as a national partner contributing to the advancement and alignment of the Kingdom’s mining sector strategy.

Naif bin Saleh Alrajhi, Chairman and CEO of Naif Alrajhi Investment Group, said the agreement represents a strategic step that reflects the Group’s commitment to supporting the national economy through investment in the mining sector. He described mining as the third pillar of the Saudi economy and a key driver for economic diversification and local content development, in line with Vision 2030.

He added: “This partnership will contribute to building a leading national mining entity that strengthens governance and investment frameworks while enables expansion into high-value projects within this promising sector.”

Eng. Meshary Al-Ali, Chairman of Rasi Investment and Founder & CEO of Golden Compass and, said the entry of Thara Future Investments as a strategic partner reflects strong confidence in the company’s expansion plans and long-term strategy.

“This partnership will enhance Golden Compass’ operational capabilities enabling the delivery of fully integrated services across the mining value chain, from exploration, drilling, to operations, while opening new opportunities for innovation and improving operational efficiency in support of sustainable sector development,” he said.

Al-Ali reaffirmed the company’s commitment to advancing its operational ecosystem and building highly qualified national talent capable of delivering world-class services, supporting Saudi Arabia’s ambition to become a regional (super region) and global mining hub.

Hisham Mohammed Attar, Co-founder and managing partner of Thara Future Investments, said: “Golden Compass possesses advanced capabilities that enable the delivery of a wide range of essential support services for mining operations. This partnership forms part of our broader growth and expansion strategy within the mining sector.”

The partnership comes 11 years after the founding of Golden Compass, during which the company has delivered numerous government projects and initiatives under the strategy of the mining sector partnering with the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources and the Saudi Geological Survey.

Since its establishment in 2015 as a specialized drilling and geological mining consultancy, Golden Compass has operated in six countries and secured strategic partnerships that have accelerated its growth and transformation. 

Today, the company is positioned as a fully integrated mining services provider in Saudi Arabia, supported by outstanding operational capabilities and a comprehensive service offering.

Aston Villa Football Club is pleased to announce El Gouna Red Sea as an Official Partner for the remainder of the 2025/26 season.

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Sahfy Sahfy
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Aston Villa Football Club is pleased to announce El Gouna Red Sea as an Official Partner for the remainder of the 2025/26 season.
Aston Villa Football Club is pleased to announce El Gouna Red Sea as an Official Partner for the remainder of the 2025/26 season.

  

The partnership will be activated through a series of branding, storytelling, and experiential touch-points across the season, with El Gouna featured prominently across the training wear range worn by Aston Villa’s men’s first-team players and staff. 

El Gouna, the premium coastal town developed by Orascom Development in Egypt and one of the Middle East’s most prominent Red Sea destinations, is internationally recognised for its world-class facilities and ongoing support of elite sport. Over the past 35 years, it has developed into a fully-integrated, year-round international community that spans over 50 nationalities, a significant portion of which is British. With its strategic positioning and distinct identity in the region, El Gouna is also positioned as an idyllic Red Sea gateway to the rest of Egypt. 

The partnership aligns Aston Villa with a destination known for innovation and quality of life, while expanding El Gouna’s international audience and further strengthening its global sporting profile.

Aston Villa said: “We are delighted to welcome El Gouna Red Sea as our official partner. 

This partnership brings together two brands that share a commitment to high performance, ambition and international growth.

El Gouna’s unique positioning as a premium coastal and world-class sporting destination makes it a natural fit for Aston Villa as we continue to expand our global footprint.”

El Gouna Red Sea said: “El Gouna was conceived as a town built for longevity, where community, performance, and wellbeing shape everyday life. Partnering with Aston Villa reflects a shared belief in long-term thinking, strong identity, and the power of sport to connect people and cultures, creating a platform for meaningful international engagement beyond the pitch.”

Designed for permanent living, El Gouna is 30 minutes from Hurghada International Airport, which is only a five-hour direct flight from the UK and Europe’s major cities. The town’s year-round warm climate and established sporting ecosystem support a lifestyle shaped around wellbeing, performance, and community.

 

Web Summit Qatar startup programme sold out 

By
شمس سيف
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Web Summit Qatar startup programme sold out
Web Summit Qatar startup programme sold out
  • 1,600 startups from around the world to join event 
  • Web Summit Qatar event floor also at full capacity 
  • Event tickets expected to sell out soon 

Web Summit Qatar is delighted to announce that the event’s startup programme is officially sold out, with over 1,600 startups from around the world set to attend. 

The event floor is also at full capacity, with leading global companies including IBM, TikTok, Microsoft, Huawei, Qatar Airways, Snapchat and many more confirmed to partner. 

With demand continuing to rise, Web Summit expects the event to reach full capacity in the coming weeks. 

Returning to Doha for its third edition, Web Summit Qatar showcases Qatar’s leading role in the region’s growth as a global tech hub, driven by smart-city innovation, digital transformation, and diversification beyond oil. 

Thousands of entrepreneurs, investors, and leaders will gather at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC) for Web Summit Qatar 2026 between February 1 and February 4 2026. 

Discussions will explore how technology can tackle financial inequality, healthcare gaps, and climate challenges, reinforcing Web Summit’s mission to unite people and ideas that can deliver real-world impact. 

From Lisbon to Doha, Vancouver, and Rio de Janeiro, Web Summit has evolved into the world’s largest technology and innovation event series and the biggest gathering of entrepreneurs, policymakers, researchers, cultural figures, and global decision-makers.

This year Web Summit Qatar also expects: 

30,000+ attendees 

120+ countries 

700+ investors 

600+ media 

to gather in Doha 

A Web Summit spokesperson said: “We’re delighted to see an unprecedented level of interest in Web Summit Qatar 2026, especially from the startups which represent the future of technology. 

Web Summit has always been the place where you meet the next decade’s most influential people: and with our unique combination of founders, investors and leaders across every sector, it is uniquely placed to help drive technological and economic progress.” 

What to expect at Web Summit Qatar 2026? 

Artificial intelligence is fuelling some of the biggest conversations shaping our world, influencing software, healthcare, sports, energy, creativity, and even space. At Web Summit Qatar 2026, AI will continue to take centre stage, with discussions about who is steering its development, who is funding it, and how executives, innovators, and investors can get real value from the technology. 

With a strong mix of content creators, media executives, and creative leaders attending, the event will also look at how technology is changing the way content is made, shared, and consumed. As AI transforms how we create content, new strategies are required for how to breakthrough the noise. 

Beyond this, Web Summit Qatar will dive into the rise of quantum computing and its growing influence on the tech world, along with breakthroughs in fintech, energy, government, health, and manufacturing that are pushing global innovation forward. 

Learn more about Web Summit’s Qatar 14 tracks here, including: 

■ AI Summit: How do we push the boundaries of innovation while safeguarding against security risks? 

■ Fintech Summit: Will AI-driven fraud prevention shape the next wave of regulation? ■ New Energy Summit: Will AI drive clean power or drain resources? ■ Government Summit: Is tech driving democracy, or dividing it? 

■ Sport Summit: Is the athlete of tomorrow human, digital, or both? 

■ Machine Summit: How are manufacturers of robots, auto and spacetech adapting to the rates of innovation? 

■ Health Summit: Is AI the cure for healthcare, or a new complication? Look out for Web Summit Qatar meetups

Web Summit Qatar Meetups connect attendees with the people that matter to them. After introducing meetups in 2023, in Rio de Janeiro, Web Summit continues its mission to help building meaningful connections through meetups, powered by its proprietary software, Summit Engine. Aiming to create a more intimate and community-driven experience, the objective is to invite attendees to at least one personalised meetup. More information about meetups in Qatar here. 

Top speakers include: 

Discover Web Summit Qatar’s confirmed speakers here, including: 

Cliff Obrecht (Canva Co-founder and COO) 

Cliff Obrecht is the COO and Co-Founder of Canva, the online design and collaboration platform used around the world. Launched in Sydney in 2013, Canva initially faced investor skepticism simply because it was being built far from Silicon Valley. Today, it has grown to more than 260 million users and is used by 95% of Fortune 500 companies. 

John Wren (Omnicom CEO) 

John is the Chairman and CEO of Omnicom Group, a Fortune 500 company and premier global provider of marketing and sales solutions. After a landmark merger with Interpublic Group, Omnicom has created the world’s largest marketing and sales company. At Web Summit Qatar, John Wren will discuss the strategic impact of this historic move and what it means for the future of the industry. 

Sheikh Ali Alwaleed Al-Thani (Invest Qatar CEO) 

Sheikh Ali Alwaleed Al-Thani is the CEO of the Investment Promotion Agency Qatar (Invest Qatar) and a board member of Katara Hospitality, Media City Qatar, Qatari Diar, and the Qatar Free Zones Authority. A leading voice in Qatar’s economic diplomacy, he previously worked at the Prime Minister’s Office on the country’s economic and investment agenda. 

Natasha Jen (Pentagram Partner) 

Natasha Jen is an award-winning designer, educator, and partner at Pentagram. Born in Taipei and based in New York since joining the firm in 2012, she is a six-time National Design Award nominee whose work is known for its bold fusion of graphic, verbal, digital, and spatial experimentation. Her signature approach challenges conventional ideas about media and culture. 

Abir El Saghir Creator, Internet Personality & Chef 

Abir is an award-winning chef with a social media following of more than 60 million across the Middle East, North Africa, and Türkiye, making her one of the region’s most influential digital personalities. Spacetoon, the leading children’s channel in the Middle East, has partnered with Abir to produce an original animated series for kids that draws on the chef’s storytelling talent. 

Amal El Fallah Seghrouchni (Morocco Minister of Digital Transition)

A prominent AI authority, Amal El Fallah Seghrouchni serves as Morocco’s Minister of Digital Transition and Administration Reform while leading Ai Movement, the country’s UNESCO-recognized AI center at Mohammed VI Polytechnic University. 

Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani (Qatar Museums Chairperson) H.E. Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani brings deep sporting, cultural, financial, and organizational expertise to Al Shaqab, where her lifelong commitment to culture, education, and outreach has shaped numerous local and international initiatives. 

Juan Pablo Ortega (Yuno Co-Founder and CEO) 

Juan is Co-Founder and CEO of Yuno, a payment business solving online payments and fraud, starting in Latin America. Before this, he co-founded Rappi, Latin America’s largest and fastest-growing on-demand platform and one of the region’s unicorns. 

Yassine Saidi (Under Armour Chief Product Officer) 

Yassine is the dynamic Chief Product Officer at Under Armour, renowned for revolutionizing the intersection of style, streetwear, and sport. He drives innovative collaborations and global strategies that redefine the fashion industry. 

And many more. Visit the Web Summit Qatar 2026 Speaker page to discover more.

Dubai Future Foundation Backs 26 Research Projects under Dubai RDI Grant Initiative

By
شمس سيف
-
Dubai Future Foundation Backs 26 Research Projects under Dubai RDI Grant Initiative
Dubai Future Foundation Backs 26 Research Projects under Dubai RDI Grant Initiative

Dubai Future Foundation (DFF) has announced its support for 26 research projects led by 14 universities and academic institutions in Dubai, marking the conclusion of the second cycle of Dubai Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Grant Initiative.

The Initiative forms part of Dubai RDI Program under the Dubai RDI Ecosystem, which was formed as per the directives of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Dubai Future Foundation. The Ecosystem is overseen by the Dubai Future Foundation and serves as an integrated platform to advance research, development and innovation across the emirate.

The funded projects were selected from a total of 358 submissions received from universities and research institutions across Dubai. Following a multi-stage evaluation process, 73 projects advanced to the final stage, after which the top projects were awarded funding of up to AED 1.5 million each.

The second cycle saw the participation of 172 researchers from the UAE and around the world, alongside collaborative research efforts involving 44 institutions across the UAE and 12 countries, including Australia, Canada, Egypt, France, Germany, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

Submissions were evaluated against a comprehensive set of criteria, including alignment with Dubai’s priority research, development and innovation areas, the potential for future partnerships, contribution to capacity building, innovation in methodology and outcomes, expected impact across strategic sectors, and overall budget efficiency.

The second cycle of the Dubai RDI Grant Initiative focused on two main focus areas: Future Cities, and Health and Life Sciences. Research under the Future Cities track addressed smart mobility solutions, next-generation built environments and infrastructure, climate-resilient urban systems, and the use of urban health data for enhanced quality of life. The Health and Life Sciences track focused on biological discoveries and systems science, clinical and applied health, health innovation and biomedical engineering, as well as biomanufacturing and synthetic biology.

Khalifa Al Qama, Chief of Research, Development and Innovation at the Dubai Future Foundation, said that the strong participation in the second cycle of the Initiative reflects the accelerating momentum of scientific research and innovation in Dubai, and underscores the emirate’s continued commitment to supporting researchers and innovators. He noted that the Initiative plays a key role in funding high-impact research projects and pioneering ideas that address the needs of vital sectors, contribute to building a diversified and sustainable digital economy grounded in knowledge and advanced technologies, and enhance Dubai’s competitiveness across future strategic sectors.

The funded projects are led by a diverse group of academic institutions in Dubai, including the University of Birmingham Dubai, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, the American University in Dubai, the University of Dubai, Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani – Dubai, Heriot-Watt University Dubai, Zayed University, Emirates Aviation University, the Mohammed Bin Rashid School of Government, the University of Wollongong in Dubai, Middlesex University Dubai, Canadian University Dubai, Amity University Dubai, and the Higher Colleges of Technology.

The Dubai RDI Program is a core pillar of the Dubai RDI Ecosystem which provides a unified framework for all current and future research, development and innovation initiatives in the emirate. The Program aims to develop evidence-based and test-driven solutions to key local and global challenges, enhance productivity across priority sectors, and unlock new pathways that drives economic value. It also supports national efforts to anticipate and respond to major global shifts, build enabling infrastructure for emerging sectors, and reinforce Dubai’s long-term economic resilience and future readiness.

For more information on the Dubai RDI Grant Initiative, please visit www.dubairdi.ae.

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