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Alpha Data to become first IPO of the year?

1

WHAT WE’RE TRACKING TODAY

THIS MORNING: Adnoc Gas formalizes LNG agreement with Indian Oil + EGA eyes more US acquisition following US tariffs

Good morning, friends, and happy Valentine’s Day. Our gift this year from the business world? A flood of earnings from the likes of Talabat, Emaar, Dubai Taxi, and much, much more. Plus: We have news of our first IPO of the year, courtesy of Alpha Data; as well as a new tax on Sharjah’s natural resource firms; a new Vegas-like “loop” in Dubai; and eased business setup regulations in Abu Dhabi. Let’s dive in.

WEATHER- Expect another warm yet cloudy day, with a chance of rain, the National Center of Meteorology forecasts (pdf). Temperatures in Dubai hit 29°C during the day, with an overnight low of 20°C, while Abu Dhabi is expected to see highs of 24°C and an overnight low of 19°C.

WATCH THIS SPACE-

#1- Adnoc Gas signed a 14-year liquefied natural gas (LNG) supply agreement with Indian Oil Corporation, valued between USD 7-9 bn, the company said in a statement. As part of the agreement, Adnoc Gas will supply up to 1.2 mn tonnes per annum (mtpa) of LNG from its Das Island liquefaction facility, with deliveries set to begin in 2026. This agreement formalizes a previously signed Heads of Agreement into a binding sales and purchase agreement.

ICYMI: Earlier this week, Bloomberg reported that this is one of two major LNG purchase agreements Adnoc is signing to secure long-term buyers for its exports. The other agreement, with Bharat Petroleum, covers 2.5 mn tons over five years starting in April, with an option to extend. This follows forecasts that the UAE stands to benefit from India’s rising LNG demand, as the world’s fourth-largest LNG buyer plans to more than double its imports to 64 bn cubic meters annually by 2030.


#2- Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) is eyeing more US acquisitions, following its acquisition of 80% of Minnesota’s Spectro Alloys in August 2024, Bloomberg reports. The acquisition is already bearing fruit for the firm by providing it with zero-tariff supply as US metal prices rise, CEO Abdulnasser Bin Kalban said.

The company had already been evaluating two additional US agreements before the US’ introduction of 25% tariffs on aluminum and steel imports, and is now also eyeing potential European investments. EGA’s US-produced aluminum avoids tariffs, but UAE exports to the US remain subject to levies.

What's next? A 170k-ton annual capacity recycled aluminum smelter in Dubai will launch in December, ahead of schedule. The company plans to increase sustainable production by investing in recycling plants and powering facilities with renewable energy.

PLUS: FACT CHECK- No EGA power plant in Indonesia: Industrials giant Emirates GlobalAluminium (EGA) denied claims that it is building a 5 GW nuclear power plant in West Java, calling the Indonesian government's statement “inaccurate,” Reuters reports. However, EGA has expressed interest in other sectors in Indonesia.


#3- The UAE is inching ever closer to the introduction of autonomous transport:

  • Chinese technology company Baidu is in talks with UAE authorities to launch its driverless ride-hailing service Apollo Go in the country, The Wall Street Journal reports, citing sources familiar with the matter. Testing in Dubai is expected to begin as early as 1H 2025.
  • Also, the UAE has started mapping air corridors and developing regulations for piloted and autonomous flying taxis and cargo drones, a process that will take 20 months to complete, state news agency Wam reports.

#4- US investment manager GQG Partners plans to expand its investment portfolio in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, founder Rajiv Jain told Zawya. The company invested about USD 3 bn in the UAE so far, including USD 500 mn in investment platform Alpha Dhabi and other investments in Aldar and the International Holding Company. Jain highlighted the UAE’s strong liquidity, improving capital market, stable currency, and commitment to attracting capital as key factors driving their investment interest.

REMEMBER- GQG received a license last year to set up GQG Partners in the ADGM, marking its first office outside the US. GQG has also expressed interest in Abu Dhabi-based assets, expecting the emirate’s market to grow in value.


#5- EWEC invites bids for Al Sila wind plant: Emirates Water & Electricity Company (EWEC) has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the 140 MW Al Sila Wind independent power project to 16 pre-qualified companies and consortiums, according to a press release. The project, located near the existing wind farm in Al Sila, will be developed under a public-private partnership model, with the successful bidder owning up to 40% of the facility, while the Abu Dhabi government retains the rest. The project scope includes the development, financing, construction, operation, maintenance, and ownership of the wind farm, with the selected developer entering a long-term power purchase agreement with EWEC. Proposals are due by 2Q 2025.

This has been in the works: The RFP follows an Expression of Interest call last October, during which interested firms submitted statements of qualifications. Once operational, the project is expected to generate up to 140 MW of renewable energy, displace 190k tonnes of CO2, and boost Abu Dhabi’s total wind capacity to nearly 240 MW.


#6- Timor-Leste looks to Emirati investment: Timor-Leste anticipates increased investment from the UAE once key legislative procedures, such as double taxation and investment agreements, are finalized, Deputy Prime Minister Francisco Kalbuadi Lay told Wam on the sidelines of the World Government Summit. The oil-and-gas-dependent nation is looking to expand its economic ties following its accession to the World Trade Organization last year. Last year, Adnoc was reviewing bids to acquire Australian oil and gas firm Santos, which has LNG projects in Timor-Leste and other countries.

DATA POINTS-

#1-The UAE ranked among the top 10 countries for AI companies per capita, coming in at ninth place, Al Khaleej reports, citing data from Deep Knowledge Group and International Finance Forum ’s Global AI Competitiveness Index, which evaluated 55k AI firms globally. The UAE, which is home to 49.5 companies per 1 mn of the population, was the only regional country to make the top 10. Singapore topped the leaderboard with 162.8 per mn. The UAE had ranked 19th in the previous year’s rankings (pdf).

#2-UAE leads GCC diversified economies list: The UAE had the most diversified economy out of the GCC countries for the 2020-2023 period , according to the Global Economic Diversification Index 2025 (pdf). The Emirates scored highly in the trade and output sub-indexes, while digitalization through fintech growth also boosted its score. The report identified factors like investment in data centres and the new corporate tax as indicators for increased diversification. Globally, Germany, China, and the US led the rankings.

PSA-

The holy month of Ramadan is expected to begin on 1 March, Khaleej Times reports, citing the UAE’s International Astronomical Centre. Confirmation through the sighting of the crescent is expected on 28 February.

HAPPENING THIS WEEK-

#1- US State Secretary Marco Rubio is set to make a stop in the UAE as part of a wider Middle East tour starting tomorrow, according to a statement. Rubio will also make stops in Israel and Saudi Arabia, with the focus of the tour being advancing the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire discussing Iran and Hamas’ US hostages.

#2- Dubai Rising: Building Tomorrow’s Global Business Capital will take place today at the Museum of the Future. The event — which is a collaboration between the Dubai Media Office and Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business — features discussions on Dubai's vision for global commerce and economic growth with officials, policymakers, business leaders, media, and scholars from the US and UAE.

THE BIG STORY ABROAD-

It’s all about geopolitics in the foreign press this morning, as the Gaza ceasefire seems back on track, a Russia-Ukraine rapprochement closer in reach, and US President Donald Trump unveils plans for reciprocal tariffs in his latest tariff salvo in the brewing trade war.

#1- Reciprocal tariffs? In Trump’s latest executive order, he unveiled plans to customize import tariffs according to a host of factors, including its trading partners’ subsidies, exchange rates, and taxes. This is in addition to new charges on cars, semiconductors, and pharma — with more details set to be announced after 1 April. (Bloomberg | Reuters | FT | CNBC)

#2- Trump also said he and Russian President Vladimir Putin are now in talks over an end to Russia’s war in Ukraine, teasing a possible end to the war in several posts on his social media platform Truth Social. Trump also said he will meet Putin in Saudi Arabia for the first round of talks.

The UAE could also play host to a potential peace summit that could see the attendance of both Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, with the country eager to play a big role in mediating between the two countries, sources reportedly told Reuters. A source close to Trump also said the UAE is a top candidate for a meeting between Putin and Trump.

#3- Hamas said it plans to release Israeli hostages on Saturday as previously planned, backtracking from threats earlier this week that threatened to put the six-week ceasefire in Gaza in jeopardy. Hamas had cited truce violations, including Israeli military preventing humanitarian aid from reaching Gaza, as reasons for a potential delay, but later re-committed to the release of hostages after talks with mediators in Qatar and Egypt. (Bloomberg | AP | Guardian)

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2

IPO WATCH

Alpha Data plans to list 40% stake on ADX as early as next month

IT services firm Alpha Data is looking to float a 40% stake in a secondary share sale on the ADX, whereby selling shareholders will take home all of the IPO proceeds, according to its prospectus (pdf). The company — which operates in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar — initially announced plans to go public in July 2024, with an eye on raising USD 200 mn through the IPO.

Who’s selling? Bin Hamoodah Company — one of Alpha Data’s only two shareholders — is selling a 26.67% stake in the company, while Ibbini Investment is selling a 13.3% stake, bringing their combined ownership down to a 60% stake post-IPO.

The breakdown: Some 95% of the offering — comprising 380 mn shares — will be limited to institutional investors, including a 5% share allocated to the Emirates Investment Authority. The remaining 5% is reserved for retail investors (including non-residents and minors).

What’s next? The subscription period for both the retail and institutional tranches is due to kick off on Thursday, 20 February with the closing date set for Tuesday, 25 February. The final price of the offering will be announced on Wednesday, 26 February, with the final allocation slated for Tuesday, 5 March. Trading is expected to begin around Tuesday, 11 March.

REMEMBER- Selling shareholders retain the right to amend the size of the offering at any point until subscription ends. This includes last-minute downsizing or upsizing of either tranches. Several listed firms, including TalabatLulu Retail, and Alef Education, decided to boost the size of their offerings last year due to high demand.  

A snapshot of Alpha Data’s performance: In 2023, Alpha Data held a 6% market share within the UAE’s total addressable market. The company logged AED 127 mn in net income during FY 2024 (down 5.3% y-o-y) while its revenues came in at AED 2.32 bn (up 15% y-o-y), according to the prospectus.

A sweetener for investors: Alpha Data plans to distribute AED 130 mn (USD 35 mn) in dividends for FY 2025, payable in two equal installments. The company has maintained a healthy dividend payout averaging 75% from 2021 to 2024, excluding a special pre-IPO dividend of AED 161 mn paid-out last year.

About Alpha Data: Founded in 1981, Alpha Data is an Abu-Dhabi based digital and IT services provider. The company offers a comprehensive suite of tech solutions, including IT infrastructure, AI, cybersecurity, big data, and cloud services. Its operations across the UAE, Qatar and Saudi Arabia are supported by a network of subsidiaries including Alpha Data Recruitment, Tuqnia, and Alpha Data Technology, among others.

ADVISORS- EFG Hermes, Emirates NBD and Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank are acting as joint lead managers for the transaction, with Ashurst and Latham & Watkins providing legal counsel. Deloitte & Touche are serving as auditors.

The UAE has a strong pipeline of IPOs for 2025:

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M&A WATCH

Mubadala inches closer to a full takeover of Canada-based CI Financial

Mubadala to fully takeover CI Financial: The shareholders of Canada-based asset and wealth management firm CI Financial approved a plan that will take the company private in a CAD 4.7 bn (USD 3.4 bn) transaction, backed by Mubadala’s asset management unit, Mubadala Capital, it said in a statement to the Toronto Stock Exchange. The transaction, which received approval from 99.9% of shareholders, is expected to close in 2Q 2025, pending regulatory approvals. The total agreement, including debt, values CI at CAD 12.1 bn.

What’s next? CI Financial will remain headquartered in Canada, with CEO Kurt MacAlpine continuing to lead the firm under Mubadala’s long-term investment philosophy. Other senior management members will also roll some of their shares into the private entity.

ADVISORS- INFOR Financial is the financial advisor to CI’s special committee of independent members of the board, while Wildeboer Dellelce is serving as legal advisor. Stikeman Elliott and Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom are serving as legal advisors to CI, while RBC Capital Markets is also an advisor to CI. Jefferies Securities is Mubadala Capital’s lead financial advisor, with Blake, Cassels & Graydon and Latham & Watkins serving as legal advisors, FGS Longview acting as strategic communications and public affairs advisor, and BMO Capital Markets also acting as advisor.

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REGULATION WATCH

Abu Dhabi allows firms registered in other emirates to operate without physical premises for first year

Abu Dhabi eases business expansion rules: The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) introduced new regulations allowing firms registered in other emirates and their respective freezones to open branches in Abu Dhabi without requiring physical premises for the first year, according to the Abu Dhabi Media Office. The regulation applies to 1.2k economic activities (pdf) across various sectors. The goal of the exemption is to boost the emirate’s non-oil economy.

How it works: Companies with licenced establishments in other emirates can apply for new branch licenses through the unified Abu Dhabi Government Services digital platform, TAMM, by submitting the necessary documents, obtaining approvals, and paying fees to receive the economic license for the new branch upon receipt of an acceptance notification. For one year from the date of the issuance of their license, they are allowed to operate out of their regular offices in the other emirate but proceed with operations in the capital.

IN OTHER REGULATION NEWS-

The Abu Dhabi Environment Agency (EAD) has issued new regulations to strengthen environmental protection by imposing stricter administrative penalties on environmental valuations, according to the Abu Dhabi Media Office. The new penalties apply to individuals, establishments, and projects. Penalties include fines, warnings, activity suspensions, license cancelations, and closures.

Violators can appeal penalties within 60 days, with appeals automatically accepted if unresolved in 90 days. EAD considers factors like environmental damage and compliance history when imposing penalties.

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TRANSPORT

Dubai could get an underground Dubai Loop, courtesy of Elon Musk

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority and Elon Musk’s construction firm The Boring Company are exploring the development of the Dubai Loop, an underground high-speed transport system aimed at easing congestion in the city’s most populated areas, according to a statement.

The details: The two entities signed an MoU to explore the development of a 17-kilometer underground transport system with 11 stations and a capacity to move over 20k passengers per hour in an initial phase. The plan is to later accommodate some 100k passengers through the underground transport network.

What we know: AI Minister Omar Sultan Al Olama first revealed the partnership during a plenary session with Musk at the World Governments Summit, saying the project will provide seamless, point-to-point travel, Gulf News reports.

Musk described the Loop as a “wormhole” that will revolutionize urban mobility. “You’re going to wormhole from one part of the city, boom, and you're out in another spot,” he said. The project’s safety and resilience were key discussion points, with Musk noting that underground tunnels offer protection from earthquakes, extreme weather, and even global catastrophes.

Musk’s tunneling firm, the Boring Company, has developed a similar Loop project in Las Vegas, using autonomous electric vehicles to transport passengers through underground tunnels. The first phase of the Loop — involving three stations and spanning 1.7 miles — was built in a year with some USD 47 mn in investments poured into developing the stations, according to The Boring Company’s website.

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TAX

Sharjah introduces 20% corporate tax for natural resource firms

Sharjah introduces 20% corporate tax: Sharjah Ruler Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi issued a law imposing a 20% tax on companies in extractive and non-extractive natural resource sectors, state news agency Wam reports.

What are extractive and non-extractive firms? Extractive natural resource firms are those involved in the extraction of natural resources like oil and gas, minerals, metals, and other aggregates, while non-extractive firms are those involved in the processing, refinement, and storage and distribution of those resources.

The details: Extractive firms will be taxed on their share of produced oil and gas value, as defined in agreements with the Sharjah Oil Department. Non-extractive firms will pay 20% annually on net taxable profits, with deductions allowed for asset depreciation and tax losses carried forward indefinitely.

How it works: Extractive companies pay taxes per Oil Department agreements. Non-extractive firms must declare and pay taxes within nine months after the financial year ends. Late payments incur 1% monthly penalties. Companies retain financial records for seven years and grant audit access, with liquidation requiring a final tax declaration within 90 days.

Audits and penalties: Sharjah’s finance department reserves the right to audit company records, and firms must settle tax discrepancies within 15 days of audit findings or face a 2% monthly penalty. Intentional tax evasion triggers a 5% fine on owed amounts.

Appeals process: Companies can challenge tax decisions within 20 days via the Oil Department for extractive firms or finance department for non-extractive firms. Unresolved disputes go to a tax committee, whose rulings are final, and tax payments are required before renewing licenses or commercial registrations.

Refresher: Sharjah’s Consultative Council (SCC) greenlit the draft law imposing corporate tax on extractive and non-extractive natural resource sectors last month, after the SCC reviewed the proposal in December 2024

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EARNINGS WATCH

A sea of earnings

ADNOC DRILLING-

Adnoc Drilling’s net income rose 21.3% y-o-y to USD 399 mn in 4Q 2024, according to its earnings release (pdf). The company’s revenue increased 41.1% y-o-y to USD 1.2 bn during the quarter, on the back of a higher level of activity and the expansion of onshore and offshore fleets and oilfield services.

On an annual basis, the company’s net income rose by 26.2% y-o-y to USD 1.3 bn in 2024, while revenue climbed by 32% y-o-y to USD 4 bn.

Dividends: Adnoc Drilling approved a USD 394 mn final dividend for 2024, pending shareholder approval, raising total 2024 dividends to USD 788 mn, up 10% y-o-y. The company plans to increase dividends to USD 867 mn in 2025 as part of its strategy to grow dividends by 10% annually.

Looking ahead, the firm expects its revenue to grow to around USD 5 bn in FY 2026. It also plans to expand its fleet from 142 owned rigs in 4Q 2024 to over 148 rigs by next year and to exceed 151 rigs by 2028.

MODON HOLDING-

ADQ-owned developer Modon Holding’s net income rose to AED 9.4 bn for FY 2024, according to an earnings release. The company’s revenue climbed to AED 6.5 bn, marking a 637% y-o-y increase.

SOUND SMART- In real estate, sales ≠ revenues. With off-plan sales dominating the industry, most real estate companies book a sale when you sign a contract to buy a home. But they only record (some or all) of the value of the unit it sold you when it (a) delivers the unit to you or (b) hits a percentage completion on a total project. So, in most cases, revenues are composed of sales from past periods, while sales in a given quarter will be recognized as revenues in the future when units are completed or delivered.

Driving growth: The company credited its revenue and net income growth to acquisitions, strong real estate sales, and portfolio expansion. Subsidiaries Adnec and Modon Properties ’s acquisitions contributed to revenue gains, while the launch of five new real estate projects on Hudayriyat Island and Reem Island generated AED 13 bn in sales.

TALABAT-

Delivery Hero’s Middle East unit Talabat saw its net income jump 54% y-o-y to USD 138 mn in 4Q 2024, while management revenues rose 32% y-o-y to USD 824 mn, according to its earnings release (pdf). Growth was driven by higher gross merchandise volume (GMV), fueled by strong consumer demand, new customer acquisitions, and increased order frequency, alongside margin expansion across both GCC and non-GCC markets, the company said. Improved monetization in non-commission revenue, delivery and service fees, and the tMart business, along with operating efficiencies, also contributed.

On a full-year basis, net income surged 64% y-o-y to USD 346 mn in 2024, while revenues climbed 32% y-o-y to USD 3 bn, exceeding the top end of guidance. GMV hit a record USD 7.4 bn, up 23% y-o-y, with monthly active customers up 25% y-o-y and average order frequency rising 8% y-o-y.

REMEMBER- Talabat raised AED 7.5 bn (c. USD 2 bn) in its IPO on the DFM during the year, pricing the offering at the top of the range. The IPO, which saw double-digit oversubscription, marked the largest tech listing globally and the biggest IPO in the GCC in 2024. It is also the DFM's first-ever tech IPO.

Looking ahead, the company forecasts GMV growth of 17-18% y-o-y, revenue growth of 18-20% y-o-y, and net income margin expansion to 5-5.5%. “We remain focused on expanding our market leadership, enhancing our technology platform, and strengthening our partnerships across the ecosystem,” CEO Tomaso Rodriguez said.

Dividends: Talabat plans to pay USD 110 mn in dividends, up from the previously announced USD 100 mn, pending shareholder approval.

ALSO- Delivery Hero plans to buy back approximately EUR 1 bn in bonds using proceeds from Talabat’s IPO, the company said in its earnings release. The buyback includes paying off convertible bonds due in 2025 and 2026, with up to EUR 350 mn allocated for 2027 bonds. CEO Niklas Östberg previously told the business information service that the proceeds would help reduce Delivery Hero’s USD 3.8 bn convertible bond burden.

AGTHIA-

Agthia sees 7.4% uptick in bottom line: ADX-listed food and beverages giant AgthiaGroup saw its bottom line climb 7.4% to AED 321.8 mn in FY 2024, according to its preliminary financial results (pdf). Revenues were up 7.8% from the previous year to AED 4.9 bn.

The firm’s water and food, agri-business, and snacking segments fuelled top line growth, despite operational headwinds in the dates business and Egypt’s currency devaluation weighing on overall performance, Agthia said.. The ADQ-owned group highlighted its diversified portfolio, strong fundamentals, and the expansion of Abu Auf — in which it holds a 70% stake — in Egypt as key factors mitigating short-term challenges.

Going forward: Egypt will continue to be pushed as a strategic export hub, Agthia said. Last autumn, they also earmarked AED 403 mn for mergers and acquisitions to fuel further regional expansion.

AL ANSARI FINANCIAL SERVICES-

Al Ansari Financial Services’ net income declined by 9.4% y-o-y to AED 97.3 mn in 4Q 2024 due to the impact of the corporate tax, according to the company’s earnings release (pdf). The firm’s total operating income rose by 9.3% y-o-y to AED 294 mn during the quarter, driven by the recovery of remittance operations and the robust performance of the wage protection system.

The company’s net income decreased by 18% y-o-y to AED 405.8 mn in FY 2024, impacted by higher manpower costs, rising operational expenses, and the implementation of corporate tax. Total operating income increased by 1.5% y-o-y to AED 1.1 bn during the year.

Dividends: Al Ansari’s board of directors proposed an AED 157.5 mn final dividend payment for 2H 2024, pending the approval of the shareholders during its upcoming general annual meeting. This final payment brings the total dividend for 2024 to AED 315 mn, accounting for nearly 78% of the year's net income after tax.

REMEMBER- Al Ansari plans to open a total of 300 branches in the midterm. The company is set to finalize its acquisition of Al Ansari Exchange in Kuwait in 1Q 2025, and is also expected to finalize its acquisition of Bahrain-based foreign exchange and remittance company BFC Group for AED 735 mn in 1Q 2025, pending the Central Bank of the UAE’s approval, with synergies set to be realized between 1Q and 3Q 2026. The firm also plans to roll out its digital wallet service in 1Q 2025.

ALPHA DHABI-

Alpha Dhabi reports record revenues: Investment holding company Alpha Dhabi posted a 1.5% y-o-y rise in net income to AED 13.5 bn in 2024, according to its earnings release (pdf). Net income attributable to shareholders dropped 17% y-o-y to AED 8.9 bn due to the derecognition of a subsidiary, the impact of one-offs in 2023, and a 75.5% surge in financing costs to AED 676 mn, according to its financials (pdf). Revenues surged 40% y-o-y to a record AED 63.4 bn for the year, driven by robust performance across key segments and strategic acquisitions and investments.

Breakdown: The firm’s industrial sector led contributions with AED 26.3 in revenue, followed by real estate at AED 18.1 bn and construction at AED 11.8 bn. Services and other sectors accounted for AED 7.2 bn. The conglomerate’s total assets rose 26% y-o-y to AED 177.5 bn.

REMEMBER- Alpha Dhabi had an active year, completing four acquisitions through Enersol, its joint venture with Adnoc Drilling. The company also divested three hotel businesses in exchange for 1.25 bn new shares in the National Corporation for Tourism and Hotels, and launched a global lifestyle vertical with Admo Lifestyle Holding via its luxury lifestyle subsidiary Admo. Alpha Dhabi also took its subsidiary NMDC Energy public on the ADX, raising AED 3.2 bn, and sold a 49% stake in its construction unit Alpha Dhabi Construction Holding to ADQ.

Dividends: Alpha Dhabi’s board approved its first-ever dividend payout of AED 2 bn for 2024, equivalent to AED 2 fils per share.

TAQA-

Abu Dhabi National Energy Company (Taqa) reported a 46.8% y-o-y decline in 4Q 2024 net income to AED 750 mn, according to its management discussion and analysis report (pdf). Revenues grew 8.9% y-o-y to AED 13.4 bn, driven by the acquisition of Sustainable Water Solutions Holding, which was later consolidated with Taqa Water Solutions and strong contributions from its transmission and distribution segment, according to a separate earnings release (pdf).

Taqa’s net income edged up 1.5% y-o-y to AED 7.1 bn in 2024, excluding one-off items. These included AED 10.8 bn tied to the acquisition (pdf) of a 5% stake in Adnoc Gas and an AED 1.1 bn deferred tax charge due to UAE’s new corporate tax. Annual revenues climbed 6.7% y-o-y to AED 55.2 bn. Taqa invested AED 9.2 bn during the year, up 63.8% y-o-y, covering construction progress on the Mirfa 2 Reverse Osmosis and Shuweihat 4 Reverse Osmosis RO desalination projects.

Looking ahead, “Taqa remains focused on delivering its 2030 strategy by investing in critical infrastructure, driving innovation, and expanding internationally,” CEO and Managing Director Jasim Husain Thabet said.

Dividends: The board proposed a final cash dividend of 2.1 fils per share, bringing the full-year payout to 4.2 fils per share.

EMAAR PROPERTIES-

Emaar properties saw its net income before tax rise 25% y-o-y to AED 18.9 bn in 2024, its highest ever net income, according to an earnings release (pdf). The company also recorded its highest ever revenue with a 33% y-o-y increase to AED 35.5 bn, and its highest sales at AED 70 bn, up 72% y-o-y.

The breakdown: Emaar Development saw a 61% y-o-y increase in revenues to AED 19.1 bn, with net income before tax climbing 20% y-o-y to AED 10.2 bn. Meanwhile, its shopping mall and retail operations saw revenues hit AED 5.6 bn, with tenant sales rising 7% y-o-y and mall occupancy reaching 98.4%. Its international segment also had a good year, with a 40% y-o-y increase in property sales to AED 40 bn.

ICYMI- Emaar Properties announced a new dividend policy in December 2024 and proposed its largest dividend to date, set at 100% of its share capital for 2024, totaling AED 8.8 bn, double the dividend from AED 4.4 bn in 2023.

DRAKE AND SCULL-

Drake and Scull in the black: Dubai-based contractor Drake and Scull reported a net income of AED 3.7 bn in 2024, compared to the AED 368.1 mn net loss the company posted the year prior, according to the company’s preliminary financials (pdf). The DFM-listed company’s revenues expanded 10.5% y-o-y to AED 103.7 mn during the period.

REFRESHER- The company successfully completed its DFM-approved restructuring plan last year, which saw it write off AED 4.1 bn in debt and rake in AED 450 mn in fresh capital to re-list on the Dubai bourse. The construction company had been suspended from trading in November 2018 due to excessive financial losses and reporting violations.

GULF MEDICAL PROJECTS CO.-

Gulf Medical Projects reported a 33% y-o-y increase in net income in FY 2024, reaching AED 100.1 mn, according to its financials (pdf). The company’s revenues rose 19% y-o-y to AED 677.3 mn. The company proposed a 15% dividend payout for the year, subject to approval from the Securities and Commodities Authority and the annual general meeting, it said in a separate disclosure (pdf).

RAK CERAMICS-

RAK Ceramics saw a 21.5% decline in net income to AED 64.2 mn in 4Q 2024, according to its financials (pdf). The company’s revenues increased by 0.5% during the quarter, reaching AED 870.9 mn.

On an annual basis, RAK Ceramics reported a 27% drop in net income to AED 234.1 mn, while revenues declined by 6.5% to AED 3.2 bn, impacted by “macro-economic factors including ongoing geopolitical tensions, inflationary pressures and supply chain disruptions, which particularly impacted export reliant divisions,” it said in an earnings release (pdf). The firm’s board of directors proposed a dividend of 10 fils per share (AED 99.4 mn) for 2H 2024.

UNION PROPERTIES-

Dubai-based Union Properties’ net income declined by 67.1% y-o-y to AED 275.6 mn in 2024, according to the company’s financials (pdf). The firm’s revenue increased by 4.1% y-o-y to AED 528.8 mn last year. Union’s debt restructuring strategies resulted in total repayments of AED 723 mn in 2024, with its financial costs amounting to AED 31.7 mn during the same period, down from AED 114 mn in 2023, according to its earnings release (pdf). The company plans to invest in two new projects soon, worth AED 4 bn, CEO Amer Khansaheb said.

REMEMBER- Union Properties reduced its legacy debt to AED 575 mn by the end of 2024, aiming to further lower its debt by AED 150 mn in 1Q 2025. The company divested some AED 1.3 bn assets, which funded debt settlements and new real estate projects, alongside an AED 82 mn decline in financing costs in 2024. Union Properties also secured AED 150 mn in new bank loans to support strategic investments over the next 18 months, with a projected annual recurring income of AED 40 mn.

ORIENT INS.-

Orient Ins. reported a net income growth of 15% y-o-y to AED 731.2 mn in 2024, according to an earnings release (pdf). The company saw its topline increase by 19.2% y-o-y to AED 7.6 bn.

DUBAI INS.-

Dubai Ins. saw its net income decline 6.8% y-o-y to AED 132.3 mn in 2024, according to an earnings release (pdf). The company also reported a 39.1% rise y-o-y in revenue to AED 3 bn.

BURJEEL HOLDINGS-

Burjeel Holdings reported a net income decline of 33.3% to AED 360 mn in 2024, according to an earnings release (pdf). The group saw its revenues rise 10.5% to AED 5 bn, driven by an expansion in the market, advancements in clinical capabilities, and a 7.5% increase in patient footfall.

In the pipeline: Burjeel plans to open 60 new physiotherapy centers in Saudi Arabia in 2025, and to launch the UAE’s largest fertility center. The company expects revenue growth this year to come in the mid-teens on the back of the conversion of deployed investments and operational efficiencies.

DUBAI TAXI-

Dubai Taxi reported a net income decline of 4.1% y-o-y to AED 331.3 in 2024, due to the introduction of corporate tax in the UAE and increased interest costs, according to an earnings release (pdf). The company saw its revenues rise 12.4% y-o-y to AED 2.2 bn.

E7 GROUP-

E7 Group turned to the black this year, logging a net income of AED 233 mn in 2024 from a loss of AED 51 mn, according to an earnings release (pdf). The group reported a 10.9% y-o-y rise in revenues to AED 700.7 mn, driven by growth in the group's security solutions and packaging segments.

ALEF EDUCATION-

Alef Education reported a 23.7% y-o-y decline in its net income to AED 447.5 mn in 2024, according to the company's financial statements (pdf). The company saw its topline rise 1.3% y-o-y to AED 759 mn, largely driven by the long-term investment-grade contract with the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge, extended in November 2024, according to a separate earnings release (pdf).

Expectations for this year: Revenue is expected to witness a substantial boost from three newly secured government contracts in the UAE, with a total value of around AED 40 mn.

AMANAT HOLDINGS-

Amanat Holdings reported an increase in net income to AED 133.8 mn in 2024, up from a loss of 43.8 mn, according to the company's financial statements (pdf). The company saw its revenues rise 17.1% y-oy to AED 796.1 mn, driven by “robust performance in [the Education business],” according to a separate earnings release (pdf).

The board recommended a dividend of AED 40 mn, bringing total dividends for the year to AED 115 mn.

8

ALSO ON OUR RADAR

MBRSG and UNDP partner on AI policy

TECH-

MBRSG + UNDP to boost AI governance research and capacity-building: The Mohammed Bin Rashid School of Government (MBRSG) signed an MoU with the UN Development Program to enhance research and capacity-building efforts in AI governance, digital transformation, and public policy innovation in the Arab world, state news agency Wam reports. The agreement was signed on the sidelines of the World Governments Summit.

The partnership aims to develop AI ethics evaluation frameworks, explore AI’s impact on sustainability, and promote ethical AI adoption. It also aims to strengthen digital governance through innovative policies and strategies that improve government services and efficiency.

BUSINESS-

Pimco to open Dubai office: Investment management firm Pacific Investment ManagementCompany (Pimco) has secured a license (pdf) from the Dubai Financial Services Authority to open a Dubai office. This will be the first regional office for the firm, which has almostUSD 2 tnin assets under management. The new office “underlines [Pimco’s] commitment to clients in this important region, including the growing wealth sector in the UAE,” Head of Pimco’s Middle East business Robert English told EnterpriseAM UAE

This is the latest in a slew of investment and asset managers setting up shop in Dubai — last month alone saw firms including ASK Private Wealth and Hamilton Lane paving the way for operations in the emirate. Not one to miss out, the ADGM has also attracted an increasing number of global asset managers and hedge funds to the financial center in recent months.

MANUFACTURING-

#1- Dubai Investment’s subsidiaries GlobalPharma and Emirates Float Glass inked agreements to boost regional production capabilities, in collaboration with the Industry and Advanced Technology Ministry, according to a press release (pdf).

The details: Pharma company GlobalPharma partnered with Morocco’s Zenith Pharma on a USD 50 mn investment for technology transfer, licensing, and local manufacturing of essential medications, including biologics and treatments for cholesterol and diabetes. Emirates Float Glass signed an agreement to supply high-quality float glass to a regional glass and silver mirror manufacturer to increase supply chain efficiency.


#2- Jafza gets a new production facility: Dubai’s Jebel Ali Freezone (Jafza) inked an agreement with German technology company Allied Heat Exchange AG (A-Heat) to establish a heat exchanger production facility at DP World’s flagship freezone, according to a statement released on Thursday. The investment ticket and the project timeline have not been disclosed.

Details: The production and distribution facility — said to be the largest in the GCC — covers an area spanning 1.2 mn sq ft. The facility will be developed by Jafza and operated by cooling systems manufacturer Güntner — A-Heat’s flagship brand — in a bid to produce high-performance heat exchangers to optimize efficiency and reduce energy consumption.

Boosting exports: The hub will be used by the German firm as a production and distribution center in a bid to export the heat exchangers to several markets, including GCC countries, Africa, Asia, and other global markets.

CONSTRUCTION-

Dubai launches AI-driven data platform for smarter urban planning: Dubai Municipality launched the Building Intelligence Platform at the World Governments Summit, an AI-powered digital tool that provides real-time data and analytics on buildings across Dubai, state news agency Wam reports. The platform provides building information including floor count, building height, gross floor area, and unit classifications. It also incorporates major economic metrics including a rental index, commercial activity trends, demographic insights, maintenance expenses, and base price assessments.

9

PLANET FINANCE

Rising US inflation in January reduces chance of Fed rate cut

The odds of a US Federal Reserve rate cut took another hit after inflation came in hotter than expected in January, with the consumer price index rising 3% y-o-y, the highest increase since June, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data. While only marginally higher than December’s 2.9%, the uptick was enough for traders to dial back projections of a 2025 rate cut, pushing Treasury yields above 4.6%, CNBC reports.

What’s driving inflation? Shelter costs accounted for nearly 30% of January’s price increase, rising 0.4%. Gasoline jumped 1.8%, contributing to a 1.1% increase in overall energy costs. Food prices also ticked up 0.4%, with grocery costs rising 0.5%. Meanwhile, used car prices climbed 2.2%, and motor vehicle insurance surged 2%. Excluding food and energy, core CPI rose 3.3% y-o-y.

REMEMBER- Donald Trump’s tariffs are expected to stoke inflation further. The US president reiterated earlier this week that rates “should be lowered, something which would go hand in hand with upcoming tariffs,” CNBC reports. Some 90% of the economists in Reuters’ October 2024 and February 2025 polls raised their inflation estimates for 2025 following Trump’s election victory.

ICYMI- Trump has already imposed a 10% tariff on USD 450 bn worth of Chinese goods and 25% tariffs on steel aluminum imports and vowed to impose reciprocal tariffs matching those imposed by other US trade partners. The president has also threatened to impose 25% tariffs on US imports from Mexico and Canada, with the measures on hold until 1 March as the neighboring countries continue to negotiate over border security. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt also signaled more trade actions could be announced soon, CNBC reports.

Market reax: Markets struggled to process the mixed signals, with the S&P 500 falling 0.27% and the Dow dropping 0.5%, while the Nasdaq remained near flat.

Are cuts still possible? A Reuters poll of 101 analysts suggests that Fed officials will adopt a wait-and-see approach as they assess how tariffs and other policy changes could affect the economy before making any further rate cuts.

MARKETS THIS MORNING-

Most Asian markets are in the green, tracking gains on Wall Street, save for Japan’s Nikkei, which is down 0.6%, and Topix, down 0.2%. Meanwhile, Wall Street futures are little changed after Trump’s announcement of reciprocal tariffs.

ADX

9,659

0.0% (YTD: +2.6%)

DFM

5,319

+0.3% (YTD: +3.1%)

Nasdaq Dubai UAE20

4,446

-0.3% (YTD: +6.8%)

USD : AED CBUAE

Buy 3.67

Sell 3.67

EIBOR

4.1% o/n

4.3% 1 yr

TASI

12,385

0.0% (YTD: +2.9%)

EGX30

29,997

+1.1% (YTD: +0.9%)

S&P 500

6,115

+1.0% (YTD: +4.0%)

FTSE 100

8,765

-0.5% (YTD: 7.2%)

Euro Stoxx 50

5,501

+1.8% (YTD: +12.4%)

Brent crude

USD 75.13

+0.2%

Natural gas (Nymex)

USD 3.65

+0.6%

Gold

USD 2,962.6

+0.6%

BTC

USD 96,514

-1.3% (YTD: +2.2%)

THE CLOSING BELL-

The ADX stayed flat yesterday on turnover of AED 1.4 bn. The index is up 2.6% YTD.

In the green: Abu Dhabi National Takaful (+15.0%), Commercial Bank International (+14.1%) and Al Khaleej Investment (+7.3%).

In the red: Agthia Group (-9.9%), Al Wathba National Ins. (-6.3%) and Phoenix Group (-3.7%).

Over on the DFM, the index rose 0.3% on turnover of AED 996.3 mn. Meanwhile, Nasdaq Dubai closed down 0.3%.

10

MY MORNING ROUTINE

My Morning Routine: Hiba Al Masoud, co-founder of Sauce Capital and founder of Scope

Hiba Al Masoud, co-founder of Sauce Capital and founder of Scope: Each week, My Morning Routine looks at how a successful member of the community starts their day — and then throws in a couple of random business questions just for fun. Speaking to us this week is Hiba Al Masoud (LinkedIn), co-founder of Sauce Capital and founder of Scope. Edited excerpts from our conversation:

My name is Hiba Al Masoud; I’m the founder of Scope, a PR and media agency focused on tech firms, and the co-founder of Sauce Capital. I started my career at Etihad Airways in commercial sales, but when covid-19 hit and aviation was at a standstill, I decided it was time for a new adventure, and I co-founded a food tech startup — Sauce Capital.

We wanted to disrupt the outdated food delivery model and connect the food ecosystem, which was previously fragmented. We started with the launch of a few brands and several kitchens in Abu Dhabi and today they are spread over three cities with over 40 virtual food brands.

The secret to the success of Sauce Capital was, I think, timing. The sector was getting attention due to the growth of the food delivery market and a shift in overall consumer behavior from minority ordering to ordering sometimes up to three times a day. That was compounded by the pandemic, which digitized the food sector even further.

Three years into my venture, I also established Scope, a boutique PR/Communications Advisory that focuses on building brand narratives and strategy. I have always been passionate about communications and having had a Master’s and some work experience in PR, I felt it was a calling that I had to attend to.

At the same time, Sauce Capital was gaining a lot of traction and growing. I was included in Forbes 30 under 30, and also completed a Women in Innovation Fellowship with the Atlantic Council & Georgetown University.

We have a very cool day-to-day routine at Scope. Some days, we’re stuck in lots of meetings with clients, but a lot of the time I’m going out to meet a client, or I’m driving to an event, so it's very dynamic and on-the-go. It’s fast-paced, which I love.

My morning routine starts with an early wake-up, and 30 minutes of meditation. I don’t look at my phone for the first 30 minutes. That helps me start my day right with a clearer mind . If I have some time, I'll go play some upbeat music on my mixers for 20 mins — I DJ as a hobby — and that really helps me start my day right.

I have a team meeting almost everyday to align and regroup, because things are always moving fast in PR and a lot can change overnight.

My goal right now for Scope is to grow the team. We're currently in the process of fundraising. My goal is to have a 360° agency, covering everything from events to social media and PR. This is where I found the gap in the market here, because a lot of companies in the sector just focus on one vertical, but not a lot of people do what we do as a boutique agency.

Personally, I’d like to go back to traveling. I’ve been to 64 countries, and I want to finish them all before I’m 40. I want to expand the team [at Scope] and take some steps back.

The best piece of advice that I ever got was to build trust and give as much as I take. My dad always used to tell me, before you ask someone for something, think of what you can offer them.


FEBRUARY

7 February-29 April (Friday-Tuesday): The Abu Dhabi Festival, Abu Dhabi.

8-20 February (Saturday-Thursday): Dubai Games 2025, Dubai.

14 February (Friday): The deadline for the consultation period for the Securities and Commodities Authority's draft regulation on security tokens and commodity tokens.

14 February (Friday): The Dubai Rising: Building Tomorrow’s Global Business Capital, Museum of the Future, Dubai.

14-16 February (Friday-Sunday): The UAE Muay Thai Championship, Space 42 Arena, Abu Dhabi.

14-16 February (Friday-Sunday): Taste of Dubai, Dubai Media City Amphitheatre.

16 February-1 March (Sunday-Saturday): Dubai Dutyfree Tennis Championships, Dubai Dutyfree Tennis Stadium in Al Garhoud.

16 February (Sunday): The International Defence Conference,The Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi.

17-21 February (Monday-Friday): International Defence Exhibition (IDEX) in Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Center.

17-21 February (Monday-Friday): Naval Defence Exhibition (NAVDEX) in Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Center.

17-21 February (Monday-Friday): Artificial Intelligence Week, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi

17-22 February (Monday-Saturday): Gulfood, Dubai World Trade Center.

19 February (Wednesday): Invest UAE seminar, V Hotel Dubai.

19-20 February (Wednesday-Thuraday): The International Conference on Reprographic Rights, Sharjah.

19-20 February (Wednesday-Thuraday): Meetings Arabia & Luxury Travel (MALT) Congress, Abu Dhabi Convention & Exhibition Bureau.

19-20 February (Wednesday-Thuraday): TheIDC Middle East CIO Summit, the Grand Hyatt Dubai.

19-21 February (Wednesday-Friday): International Dialogue of Civilizations & Tolerance Conference, Abu Dhabi Energy Centre.

19-23 February (Wednesday- Sunday): Dubai International Boat Show, Dubai Harbour.

20-25 February (Thursday-Tuesday): Subscription period for retail and institutional investors for Alpha Data’s IPO.

24-25 February (Monday-Tuesday): World Passenger Experience Forum, Dubai.

24-26 February (Monday-Wednesday): Connecting Hydrogen MENA, Dubai.

26-27 February (Wednesday-Thursday): Affiliate World Dubai 2025, Dubai World Trade Center.

26 February (Wednesday): Final price announcement for Alpha Data’s IPO.

28-29 February (Friday-Saturday): Investopia 2024, the St. Regis, Abu Dhabi.

8 March (Saturday): Future Women Leaders Forum 2025, Taj Exotica, The Palm, Dubai

27-29 October (Monday-Wednesday): Future Hospitality Summit, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai.

17-21 November (Monday-Friday): Dubai Airshow 2025, Al Maktoum International Airport, Dubai.

Signposted to happen sometime in 1Q 2025:

  • The first eight fronds of the Palm Jebel Ali will be site-ready, allowing for the commencement of villa infrastructure and civil works.

MARCH

1 March (Saturday): Start of Ramadan.

5 March (Wednesday): Final share allocation for Alpha Data’s IPO.

11 March (Tuesday): Alpha Data shares begin trading.

18-19 March (Tuesday-Wednesday): US Federal Reserve’s Federal Open Market Committee meeting.

29 March (Saturday): New traffic regulations and minimum driving age to take effect.

31 March-2 April (Monday-Wednesday): Eid Al Fitr, national holiday.

APRIL

1 April (Tuesday): New ADGM employment regulations come into effect.

1 April (Tuesday): New personal status law comes into effect.

6-11 April (Sunday-Friday): Geo-Spatial Week, Dubai.

7-10 April (Monday-Thursday) : EFG Hermes One on One conference, Dubai.

7-9 April (Monday-Wednesday): AIM Investment Summit, Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Center

7-9 April (Monday-Wednesday): Middle East Energy, Dubai World Trade Center.

7-9 April (Monday-Wednesday): World Local Production Forum's 3rd edition, Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Center.

11-13 April (Friday-Sunday): I-Film Festival, Yas Creative Hub, Abu Dhabi.

12-13 April (Saturday-Sunday): Global Justice, Love & Peace Summit, Dubai Exhibition Centre, Expo City Dubai.

14-16 April (Monday-Wednesday): Dubai Woodshow’s 21st Edition, Dubai World Trade Center

14-16 April (Monday-Wednesday): IPS congress, Dubai World Trade Center.

14-26 April (Monday-Saturday): Solana Economic Zone, Dubai.

15-17 April (Tuesday-Thursday): The Abu Dhabi Global Health Week, Adnec center, Abu Dhabi.

16-18 April (Wednesday-Friday): World Future Energy Summit,Abu Dhabi National Exhibition, Abu Dhabi.

21-25 April (Monday-Friday): The Dubai AI Week, Museum of the Future and Area 2071, Emirates Towers, Dubai.

22-24 April (Tuesday-Thursday): DOMOTEX Middle East, Dubai World Trade Center, Dubai.

25 April-11 May (Friday-Sunday): Dubai Esports and Games Festival, Dubai World Trade Center.

28 April-1 May (Monday-Thursday): The Arabian Travel Market, Dubai World Trade Center

28 April-2 May (Monday-Friday): The 64th Annual Conference of the International Federation of Ait Traffic Controllers’ Associations (IFATCA)

Signposted to happen sometime in April:

MAY

6-7 May (Tuesday-Wednesday): Global Ports Forum, Dubai.

6-7 May (Tuesday-Wednesday): US Federal Reserve’s Federal Open Market Committee meeting.

13-16 May (Tuesday-Friday): International Union for Health Promotion and Education Conference, Abu Dhabi.

13-15 May (Tuesday-Thursday): Cabsat Middle East and Satellite Middle East, Dubai World Trade Center.

15 May (Thursday-Sunday): The Economy Middle East Summit, ADGM, Abu Dhabi.

15-18 May (Thursday-Sunday): The GLA Global Logistics Conference, Grand Hyatt Dubai.

16-18 May (Friday-Sunday): GISEC, Dubai World Trade Center.

19-22 May (Monday-Thursday): Make it in the Emirates, Adnec, Abu Dhabi.

20-22 May (Tuesday-Thursday): Seamless Middle East 2025, Dubai World Trade Center.

23-25 May (Friday-Sunday): EuroLeague Final Four, Etihad Arena, Abu Dhabi.

26-28 May (Monday-Wednesday): Arab Media Summit, World Trade Center, Dubai.

30 May (Friday): Arafat Day.

31 May-2 June (Saturday-Monday): Eid Al Adha.

Signposted to happen sometime in May:

  • Asean and summit, Malaysia.

JUNE

17-18 June (Tuesday-Wednesday): US Federal Reserve’s Federal Open Market Committee meeting.

24-25 June (Tuesday-Wednesday): Middle East Rail, Dubai World Trade Center.

27 June (Friday): Islamic New Year.

Signposted to happen sometime in 2H 2025:

  • Closing of XRG's acquisition of Covestro

JULY

29-30 July (Tuesday-Wednesday): US Federal Reserve’s Federal Open Market Committee meeting.

SEPTEMBER

8-10 September (Monday-Wednesday): DigiHealth exhibition, World Trade Center, Dubai.

16-17 September (Tuesday-Wednesday): US Federal Reserve’s Federal Open Market Committee meeting.

24-25 September (Wednesday-Thursday): Mohammed Bin Rashid Leadership Forum, Mohammed Bin Rashid Center for Leadership Development, Dubai.

OCTOBER

3-16 October (Friday-Thursday): Dubai Home Festival.

7-9 October (Tuesday-Thursday): The 8th International Symposium on the System of Radiological Protection, the Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal.

9-15 October (Thursday-Wednesday): IUCN World Conservation Congress, Abu Dhabi.

17-19 October (Friday-Sunday): The International Real Estate and Investment Show, Abu Dhabi.

27-29 October (Monday-Wednesday): Asia Pacific Cities Summit, Dubai Exhibition Center.

28-29 October (Tuesday-Wednesday): US Federal Reserve’s Federal Open Market Committee meeting.

NOVEMBER

18-19 November (Tuesday-Wednesday): Dubai Future Forum, Museum of the Future, Dubai.

DECEMBER

1-3 December (Monday-Wednesday): Eid Al Etihad (UAE National Day).

1-5 December (Monday-Friday): The World Congress of Neurosurgery, Dubai World Trade Center.

9-10 December (Tuesday-Wednesday): US Federal Reserve’s Federal Open Market Committee meeting.

Signposted to happen sometime in 2025:

  • The Middle East Electric Vehicle Show, Expo Center Sharjah.
  • e& will complete Adnoc’s private 5G network.
  • Executive Committee Meeting (EXCOM 2025) conference of the World Smart Sustainable Cities Organisation (WeGO)
  • The International Civil Aviation Organization’s Global Implementation Support Symposium, Abu Dhabi.
  • Universal Postal Congress 2025, Dubai.

Signposted to happen sometime in the fall of 2025:

  • 2025 Games of the Future, Dubai.
  • ICOM General Conference 2025, Dubai

Signposted to happen sometime in 2026:

  • 11-13 May (Monday-Wednesday): AI Everything Global, Adnec Center.
  • The UAE to host the Arab Competition Forum
  • Dubai to host the Arab Actuarial Conference
  • United Nations Water Conference 2026, UAE
  • 9-11 January (Friday-Sunday): 1 Bn Followers Summit’s fourth edition, UAE
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