Smart cities lead GCC’s IoT boom: NEOM and Smart Dubai in focus
IoT applications are transforming critical sectors such as transportation, where connected vehicles improve traffic management, utilities where smart grids enhance...
Economy
‘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
Economy
MENA’s $2trn construction boom boosts sustainability
With innovative technologies and a focus on reducing emissions, this transformation could position the region as a global leader in...
- With innovative technologies and a focus on reducing emissions, this transformation could position the region as a global leader in sustainable urban development.
- The region sees a unique chance to pioneer sustainable technologies, potentially reducing lifecycle emissions by 50-60%, highlights Strategy& Middle East and Dar.
Economy
Gaza conflict casts shadow on Israel’s gas industry
War with Palestinians disrupts Israel's gas exports, causing economic losses and altering energy strategies.
- The accounting and consulting firm BDO Israel estimated the economic losses of the closure of the Tamar field at about US$ 201 million a month
- The gas field supplied 8.7 billion cubic meters of gas to the Israeli market in 2022 while exporting another 1.57 billion cubic meters to Egypt and Jordan
Economy
GCC sovereigns eye fiscal rejuvenation
A report by S&P Global Ratings forecasts improved fiscal positions due to higher oil prices, fiscal consolidation and a robust...
- The report projects a nearly $11 billion deficit on average over 2023-2026 which is 0.5 percent of average GCC GDP over this period
- Prudent fiscal policy and the relatively higher oil price environment have resulted in some governments repaying part of their debt stock
Economy
GCC maintains stable inflation rates despite crises
Pausing of rate hikes by global central banks amid fluctuating inflation rates influences global markets, with specific impacts in the...
- Pausing of rate hikes by global central banks amid fluctuating inflation rates influences global markets, with specific impacts in the MENA region, says a new report.
- The latest Kamco report offers an insightful analysis of economic trends in key Gulf countries, shedding light on their unique inflationary challenges and strategies.
Business
Technological advances propel UAE’s payments industry
The sector's growth, driven by the transition to digital transactions and tech innovations, positions UAE as a leader in the...
- The sector's growth, driven by the transition to digital transactions and tech innovations, positions UAE as a leader in the evolving global payments landscape, says a report.
- Moreover, the Gulf country's economic expansion and changing consumer preferences towards digital payments are also leading to continuous growth of the payment industry.
Analysis
Saudi pioneering solutions for water scarcity
The kingdom is forging partnerships with major corporations to revolutionize water technologies and achieve water self-sufficiency.
- Water scarcity is 500 cubic meters per capita, while Saudi Arabia's annual per capita share of water does not exceed 89.5 cubic meters.
- The Saline Water Conversion Corporation has signed agreements with several major corporations to tackle water scarcity.
Business
Sustainability in style: UAE’s couture goes green
The UAE is shifting from Western influences to eco-friendly practices in its apparel market. 2023 marks the nation's commitment to...
- In the UAE, environmentally friendly, competitively priced, stylish, and high-quality products are increasingly being offered by brands
- They use organic cotton and other environmentally friendly materials like bamboo, hemp, and recycled polyester
Business
Blockchain enhances efficiency, security in aviation
Despite facing challenges like regulatory compliance and interoperability, blockchain promises to revolutionize airline operations, offering improved passenger experiences.
- Despite facing challenges like regulatory compliance and interoperability, blockchain promises to revolutionize airline operations, offering improved passenger experiences.
- Blockchain technology is revolutionizing aviation with enhanced transparency, security, and operational efficiency, promising significant cost savings, says Aerobloc's founder.
Sustainably yours: Redefining travel for green future
The future of travel is expected to see greater use of renewable energy in transportation and advancements in technology, driving...
- The tourism industry grapples with several environmental challenges, with notable concerns being the carbon emissions associated with air travel
- Travelers can help reduce the negative impacts of tourism and support the long-term sustainability of the industry, by choosing sustainable tourism options
Business
Dubai witnesses green transit revolution
Dubai is actively implementing climate adaptation strategies and technologies in transportation and infrastructure to mitigate climate change effects and enhance...
- By the end of the decade, the emirate aims to have 10% of public buses run on hydrogen or electric powered, ramping up to 20% by 2035, 40% by 2040, 80% by 2045
- According to Sandalkhan, of BCG, Dubai aims to set a global standard in eco-friendly transportation and RTA's 2050 Zero-Emissions plan reflects that ambition
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Smart cities lead GCC’s IoT boom: NEOM and Smart Dubai in focus
IoT applications are transforming critical sectors such as transportation, where connected vehicles improve traffic management, utilities where smart grids enhance...
Economy
Company News
Latest News
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...
Interview
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...
Business
Tech revolutionizes professional landscape for women
Women First Jobs offers tailored solutions for women in the UAE, overcoming societal norms and unequal access to opportunities, says...
Business
Most Read
Economy
Diversification helps GCC surge in global markets
Gulf economies are witnessing transformative growth and resilience with the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar leading the way in global...
- Gulf economies are witnessing transformative growth and resilience with the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar leading the way in global competitiveness, says a report.
- The bloc's shift from oil, through huge investments in logistics infrastructure and a business-friendly environment, positions them as prime locations for foreign investment.
Economy
Female founders flourish in UAE’s startup ecosystem
Over the past decade, the UAE has become a global hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, attracting significant interest from international...
- Over the past decade, the UAE has become a global hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, attracting significant interest from international and female-led startups.
- Supported by visionary leadership and progressive policies, this surge ushers in a transformative era for the UAE, highlighting diversity, creativity, and sustainable development.
Business
Consumer products sector grows amid rising prices
The consumer products sector enjoys tremendous growth, with retail sales value for the industry globally rising by close to 10...
- The consumer products sector enjoys tremendous growth, with retail sales value for the industry globally rising by close to 10 percent year on year in 2023, says a report.
- However, the sector remain at a crossroads, with inflation, digital transformation, and sustainability shaping the future, adds the latest report by Bain & Company.