‘Over 91 percent of travel bookings are now online’
Digitalization is revolutionizing travel, and data analytics is hyper-personalizing the sector, notably in GCC's growing business tourism, says Pallav Singhvi...
Business
Luxury goods boom in Gulf draws global investors
The region's luxury goods market was worth US$ 10.52 billion in 2023, with long-term growth expected, reaching US$ 13.70 billion...
Business
Economy
KSA seeks to lead global sustainability drive with Alat
Led by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Alat is poised to revolutionize the tech sector, aiming for carbon neutrality...
- Led by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Alat is poised to revolutionize the tech sector, aiming for carbon neutrality and creating thousands of jobs.
- Alat, with its seven strategic units like semiconductors and smart devices, aims to innovate in over 30 categories, from robotics to heavy equipment, serving diverse industries.
Business
AI in the Middle East: From potential to profit
The region is making significant strides in integrating AI into various sectors, promising substantial productivity gains and innovation, a latest...
- The region is making significant strides in integrating AI into various sectors, promising substantial productivity gains and innovation, a latest report points out.
- The Boston Consulting Group report reveals that 61% of Middle Eastern executives anticipate over 10 percent productivity gains from AI and GenAI in 2024.
Market Report
Kuwait leads GCC market gains amid regional tensions
Despite challenges from regional tensions and fluctuating oil prices, sectors like F&B and pharma see notable increases, showcasing the diverse...
- Despite challenges from regional tensions and fluctuating oil prices, sectors like F&B and pharma see notable increases, showcasing the diverse impacts on regional markets.
- Kuwait led with a 6.6% gain, while declines in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Abu Dhabi were balanced by other markets, amid notable drops in energy, materials, and real estate.
Business
Gulf realty navigates opportunities and challenges
The GCC real estate sector enters 2024 amidst a complex interplay of global economic challenges and regional opportunities, says a...
- The GCC real estate sector enters 2024 amidst a complex interplay of global economic challenges and regional opportunities, says a latest report.
- With Dubai defying global trends and Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 spurring growth, the landscape is ripe with potential. Qatar, however, faces correction.
Business
Saudi Arabia leads GCC in project awards this year
The 2024 outlook for the MENA region's project market is exceptional, with an anticipated surpassing of $270 billion in value,...
- The 2024 outlook for the MENA region's project market is exceptional, with an anticipated surpassing of $270 billion in value, according to a latest report.
- The surge in the GCC project awards, especially in gas and construction sectors, reflects a robust economic recovery and strategic investments driving growth.
Interview
WEF24: Creative leap diversifies Nigerian economy
Nigeria is diversifying its economy, moving beyond oil to embrace the blue and digital economies, Minister of Art, Culture, and...
- Nigeria is diversifying its economy, moving beyond oil to embrace the blue and digital economies, Minister of Art, Culture, and Creative Economy Hannatu Musa Musawa tells TRENDS.
- The African country is leading initiatives for global recognition, with Destination 2030 showcasing the country's rich cultural heritage and creative prowess, adds Musawa.
Business
Oil sees fluctuating prices, shifting output trends
The crude oil market experienced significant volatility in the year 2023, with prices swinging dramatically, influenced by various global factors.
- The crude oil market experienced significant volatility in the year 2023, with prices swinging dramatically, influenced by various global factors.
- OPEC+ continues to dynamically adjust production, with US output reaching a record high and global demand growth led by non-OECD regions.
Market Report
UAE, KSA lead as tech and energy drive IPOs in GCC
The 2024 outlook for GCC IPO markets shows strong potential with diversified sector participation, bolstered by government support for both...
- The 2024 outlook for GCC IPO markets shows strong potential with diversified sector participation, bolstered by government support for both state-owned and private offerings.
- ADNOC Gas' large IPO underscores the region's market robustness, while the technology sector reclaims the lead in IPO proceeds, showcasing dynamic market strength.
Economy
Global HQs help Saudi youth boost skills, get jobs
The presence of multinationals promises a transfer of expertise and skills, enhancing opportunities for Saudi youth and contributing to the...
- The presence of multinationals promises a transfer of expertise and skills, enhancing opportunities for Saudi youth and contributing to the Kingdom's diversification.
- Riyadh aims to become a global economic hub, drawing international experts and fostering knowledge transfer, with potential economic benefits estimated at $45 billion.
Market Report
GCC at the forefront of 2024 sukuk market expansion
This year, emerging markets, led by the UAE, issued record bonds against declining yields and expected rate cuts by major...
- This year, emerging markets, led by the UAE, issued record bonds against declining yields and expected rate cuts by major central banks.
- According to Kamco Invest, this surge is driven by a combination of factors including geopolitical tensions and evolving economic challenges.
‘Over 91 percent of travel bookings are now online’
Digitalization is revolutionizing travel, and data analytics is hyper-personalizing the sector, notably in GCC's growing business tourism, says Pallav Singhvi...
Business
Company News
Latest News
Ramadan influences consumer habits, retail strategy
The ongoing fasting month brings traditional practices and modern shopping habits together, impacting market trends significantly in the Gulf region.
Business
Supply chain challenges hit Ramadan retail rush
Logistical adaptations, strategic planning, and forecasting essential for addressing the unique demands of increased consumption during Ramadan, says Aramex's Tarek...
Business
Shifting dietary trends boost MEA’s protein market
Rise of flexitarian and vegan diets in the region is driving demand for alternative proteins, with the market expected to...
Business
Most Read
Interview
Empowering Arab women Sheikha Bodour’s key focus
Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi, from the American University of Sharjah, advocates for diversity, inclusion, and continuous learning in leadership roles...
- Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi, from the American University of Sharjah, advocates for diversity, inclusion, and continuous learning in leadership roles for women.
- She highlights the strengths Arab women bring to leadership and the hurdles they face, proposing mentorship and gender diversity programs as solutions.
Interview
Women playing key role in educational innovations
Arab women have significant impact in shaping educational practices by embracing technology and student-centered learning, says Aziza Ellozy of The...
- Arab women have significant impact in shaping educational practices by embracing technology and student-centered learning, says Aziza Ellozy of The American University in Cairo.
- Embracing innovative pedagogies and technology, while strategizing success in leadership roles helps in overcoming challenges within the education sector, Ellozy adds.
Business
Digital innovation spurs gender parity in Middle East
Technology, from digital platforms to AI, offers a transformative avenue for empowering women, says Isabel Neiva of Kearney Middle East...
- Technology, from digital platforms to AI, offers a transformative avenue for empowering women, says Isabel Neiva of Kearney Middle East & Africa.
- She adds that technology is enhancing access to education, employment, and entrepreneurship opportunities beside health and well-being for women.