Dubai Government Launches Major New Publishing Venture

Dubai Media Incorporated (DMI) has unveiled a new cultural publishing venture, ‘Dar Al Bayan Publishing House’, aligned with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, to establish Dubai as a global cultural and media hub.

The launch, which took place during the 17th Emirates Airline Festival of Literature 2025 in Dubai, aims to foster a new era of creativity and innovation in the publishing industry. The publishing house is set to adopt modern methodologies and advanced technologies, enriching the fields of literature and culture with diverse perspectives and new areas of research, writing, and translation.

Hamad bin Karam, Editor-in-Chief of Al Bayan newspaper, presented the vision and strategic objectives of Dar Al Bayan Publishing, explaining that it will enhance the local and Arab publishing landscape.

The publishing house, he said, will adopt innovative and high-quality contemporary methodologies in the realms of publishing, culture, and intellectual thought, reinforcing and reflecting Dubai’s distinctive approach to creativity, openness, and uniqueness.

Dar Al Bayan Publishing House will contribute to the global literary scene by adopting international standards and exploring new frontiers in publishing.The venture is expected to contribute significantly to Dubai’s creative economy and support national initiatives. It will offer a wide range of content, from literature and culture to research and translation.

The initiative is seen as a significant step towards strengthening Dubai’s position as a global cultural and intellectual hub.

Innovator’s Edge: Hera Health Solutions’ Non-Invasive Drug Delivery System Aims to Transform the Future of Healthcare

The Future Investment Initiative (FII) Institute, a global nonprofit foundation established by Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund Public Investment Fund, hosted its inaugural FII8 Investment Day during its 8th annual gathering in Riyadh last November.

The FII8 Investment Day, held under the theme of “Infinite Horizons: Investing Today, Shaping Tomorrow,” showcased startup companies whose tech solutions are tackling world’s most pressing global challenges in artificial intelligence and robotics, sustainability, health and education.

In 2017, a team of biomedical engineers originating from the Georgia Institute of Technology, US, gathered around the idea of providing access to conveniently sustainable medicine to everyone, and soon enough they started up Hera Health Solutions. “We’re tackling the need for long-acting, non-invasive drug delivery platforms, particularly in fields where patient compliance is critical, like contraception, opioid addiction treatments, and hormonal deliveries,” says Idicula Mathew, the co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Memphis-based biotech startup. “Traditional drug delivery methods like oral capsules often lead to issues with adherence and can limit therapeutic efficacy. Our platform uniquely addresses these gaps by using a bioerodible nanotechnology system that enables prolonged, controlled release, allowing patients to benefit from uninterrupted therapeutic effects.”

Hera Health Solutions leverages advanced nanotechnology and bioerodible polymers to create long-acting drug delivery systems. The platform uses FDA-approved materials, reducing regulatory hurdles and ensuring safety. It also utilizes electrospinning, an advanced manufacturing process that allows for the precision layering of drug particles, optimizing both dosage control and therapeutic release profiles. “By integrating scalable, GMP-compliant manufacturing processes early, we’re accelerating our path to market,” Mathew says. “This technology is unique in its ability to deliver a range of therapeutics non-invasively, from small and large molecules, with flexibility for various delivery modes, such as implants and patches. These patented technologies enable Hera to redefine drug delivery, aiming for broader therapeutic access and improved outcomes.”

Unlike existing products that require frequent re-administration, Hera’s technology offers a more patient-friendly alternative designed for maximum efficacy and convenience. “Our focus on bioerodible polymers not only provides reliable, consistent delivery but also eliminates the need for removal, setting us apart in an evolving market and meeting an unmet need for both pharmaceutical companies, patients, and healthcare providers,” Mathew explains.

Going forward, the Hera Health Solutions team aims to expand the platform’s applications beyond contraception and animal health to encompass areas like pain management, cancer therapies, and vaccine delivery. “Scaling will involve increasing our R&D capabilities, pursuing strategic partnerships with pharmaceutical companies, and building out manufacturing to support larger production volumes,” Mathew says. “Additionally, we aim to establish global partnerships, especially in emerging markets where healthcare infrastructure benefits significantly from long-acting, minimally invasive treatments. By investing in our technology pipeline and regulatory strategies, we’re laying the groundwork for rapid, sustainable growth.”

Participating in the FII8 global conference has broadened the team’s perspective on the future of healthcare and the role that innovative startups can play on a global scale. “Through discussions and networking, we’ve gained insights into international healthcare challenges and potential partnerships that can help Hera expand its reach,” Mathew says. “FII8 has also provided a platform for us to showcase our technology to a global audience, validating our mission and sparking interest from investors and industry leaders. Personally, this experience has reaffirmed the importance of pursuing sustainable and accessible healthcare solutions, and it’s inspired new strategies for Hera’s growth and impact.”

In line with that, Mathew points out that Hera Health Solutions measures impact beyond revenue, focusing on outcomes that benefit patients, healthcare systems, and the environment. “For patients, our platform’s efficacy and ease of use reduce the barriers to consistent treatment adherence, which directly impacts public health positively,” he says. “Environmentally, we prioritize the use of biodegradable materials that minimize waste and lower the ecological burden of medical disposables. In addition, by providing long-acting therapeutics, we are indirectly contributing to a reduction in healthcare costs and hospital visits, further easing the societal burden. We assess our societal impact through patient feedback, partnership results, and sustainable practice metrics, ensuring our growth aligns with our values.”

Innovator’s Edge: How Deniz Tekerek’s Archireef Built the World’s First Artificial Reef Structure

Archireef

Marine ecosystems, such as coral reefs, are critical to the survival of our species, but their future seems uncertain. The World Economic Forum and the journal PLOS Climate state that if Earth becomes 1.5°C warmer than its pre-industrial levels (currently, we are at a 1.1°C increase in temperature), 99% of the world’s reefs would experience heatwaves that would be too frequent for them to recover.

However, Deniz Tekerek, co-founder and Chief Commercial Officer, Archireef, a nature tech company with offices in Hong Kong and Abu Dhabi, strongly believes that humanity still has a chance to act and restore corals. “At Archireef, we restore corals and other marine ecosystems via eco-engineered and patented products and use cutting-edge monitoring technologies, such as environmental DNA and computer vision, to track restoration performance,” he says.

The company designed the world’s first artificial reef structure as custom-built, 3D-printed terracotta clay. In March 2023, Archireef completed its first installation by deploying 160 of its proprietary Reef Tiles, in collaboration with the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD). “We sit at the junction of artificial intelligence (AI) and 3D-printing to optimize our solutions for success,” Tekerek explains. “Our products also incorporate elements of biomimicry and allow nature to settle in the most appropriate way. To achieve this, we created custom machinery and each of our products is either patented or has a patent pending. The combination of all of the above gives us an edge in the market. For example, our Reef Tiles are outperforming traditional methods by a factor of at least four.”

Archireef is one of the world’s 320 early adopters of the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD), a market-led, science-based and government-supported global initiative. “It is a framework that goes beyond net zero and empowers us to focus on net-positive outcomes,” Tekerek says. “We help corporations adopt sustainable strategies and deliver ocean literacy to both students and corporations, to give them an edge in the economy of the future.

Starting with a small-scale prototype, Archireef now has a full-scale production facility in the UAE, and Tekerek explains that their ambition is to bring the Archireef solutions to
all relevant parts of the world. “Our goal is to restore 125 hectares of marine ecosystems by 2030, to deliver ocean literacy to one million children, and to extract biodiversity credits from ocean restoration by the end of 2025,” he says. “We believe that all of the above can be achieved through functional and committed public-private partnerships.”

Within this context, Tekerek appreciate the support from FII8. “It was an incredible opportunity to meet key decision-makers in a single location,” he says. “It allowed us to lend a voice to the ocean and to highlight its importance to our economy and our collective future. We expect that our FII membership will enable us to connect with key decision-makers at a deeper level and that these connections will foster partnerships.”

Dubai Youth Forum Unveils Strategies to Empower Young Entrepreneurs

Under the patronage of The Executive Council of Dubai, the Dubai Youth Council hosted the ‘Dubai Youth Forum’ at the Mohammed bin Rashid Library on January 28, 2025.

Bringing together top officials, industry experts, and dynamic young talents from diverse sectors, the forum highlighted the pivotal role of youth in shaping Dubai’s strategic vision.

The Dubai Youth Forum contributes to reinforcing Dubai’s position as a global leader in promoting youth-driven innovation and sustainable development.

Held at the Mohammed bin Rashid Library, the forum unveiled several youth-focused initiatives designed to empower young entrepreneurs and enhance their social contributions. These initiatives are grounded in Dubai’s core values, distinctive identity and the core principles of its community.

The forum was attended by Omar Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications; Abdulla Mohammed Al Basti, Secretary-General of The Executive Council of Dubai; Khaled Al Nuaimi, Director of the Federal Youth Authority; Ayesha Miran, Director-General of the Knowledge and Human Development Authority; Hala Badri, Director-General of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority; Mohammed Rashid Lootah, Director-General of Dubai Chambers; Fahad Al Hassawi, CEO of du; along with several officials from government and private entities.

Coinciding with the announcement of 2025 as the ‘Year of Community’ by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Abdulla Mohammed Al Basti highlighted the importance of youth in shaping the nation’s future. He said, “Youth are pioneers of the future, driving innovation and development. Empowering them is crucial to fostering social cohesion, achieving ambitious goals, and creating opportunities for future generations. Guided by the vision of our leadership, we remain committed to empowering youth to play a critical role in shaping Dubai’s ambitious future plans.”

He also commended the efforts of the Dubai Youth Forum in enhancing youth participation, expressing gratitude to the forum’s strategic partners for their dedication to nurturing youth as drivers of sustainable development.

Khaled Al Nuaimi emphasised the UAE leadership’s commitment to providing an ideal environment for youth empowerment, saying, “The leadership’s vision ensures robust support for youth through strategic initiatives and projects, enabling them to excel across diverse fields. Aligned with the Year of Community, the Dubai Youth Forum highlights the shared responsibility of building a sustainable and thriving nation.”

He further stated that the Dubai Youth Council’s initiatives are a testament to their significant efforts to integrate youth into the fabric of the community while creating opportunities for skill development and growth.

The forum witnessed the announcement of 10 youth-centric initiatives by strategic partners from government and private sectors, designed to enhance capabilities and develop skills across various sectors. These included:

^{Future Readiness Youth Program by Dubai Civil Defense: Trains 1,000 youth annually in safety, innovation, and community security.}
^{Your Digital Accelerator by Dubai Digital Authority: Equips youth entrepreneurs with technical skills for success in the tech sector.}
^{Generation of Entrepreneurs by Dubai Chambers: Empowers Emirati youth through mentorship and training programmes.}
^{Youth as Partners in Leadership by Dubai Municipality: Provides opportunities for emerging entrepreneurs with reduced-cost resources and prime locations for business growth.}
^{Human Potential by Dubai Government Human Resources Department: Focuses on personalised career and educational development.}
^{Du Core Empowerment Program by du: Develops youth skills in media and event coverage for competitive job markets.}
^{Youth Podcast by Dubai Culture: Facilitates innovative dialogue on youth aspirations and sustainability.}
^{Be Aware by the Community Development Authority: Educates youth about social challenges and UAE laws.}
^{Explore Space by Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre: Engages youth in space exploration and satellite development workshops.}
^{Dubai Heroes by Farjan Dubai: Trains youth volunteers to support communities during emergencies.}

A highlight of the forum was the launch of the ‘Dubai Youth Values Charter’, titled ‘My Values, My Future’. The charter establishes a framework of values that empower youth to drive sustainable development while preserving Dubai’s cultural identity.

It highlights five core values: “Dubai’s Youth … The Descendants of Zayed”, “The Family … The Foundation of a Nation”, “Youth as the Pillar of a Strong Society”, “Youth as Renaissance Leaders”, and “Youth as Exemplary Economic Drivers”.

The forum concluded with inspiring success stories from Emirati youth and the recognition of 10 outstanding young individuals for their social contributions. Strategic partners were also honoured for their commitment to youth empowerment.

Attendees praised the forum as a valuable platform for exchanging ideas, engaging with public and private entities, and driving impactful initiatives. The event also featured a dedicated exhibition of youth-focused initiatives and interactive activities at the Youth Hub.

Are White-Collar Jobs No Longer in Demand in the UAE?

The UAE job market has been experiencing a significant surge in demand for both blue-collar and entry-level jobs, although white-collar recruitment continues to show a downward trend, as per a report by UAE-based recruitment and staffing solutions company Innovations Group.

Offering insights on the UAE’s prevailing workforce trends and market insights, the study shows that blue-collar jobs have grown by 69% in 2024, primarily due to the ongoing mega projects in both residential and industrial construction. Overall, however, blue-collar hirings declined by 21% in 2024, despite the rising number of open positions, which indicates challenges in terms of mobilization and skill matching.

While the UAE government’s focus on economic diversification and infrastructure development has led to a considerable influx of new businesses across industry verticals, there has also been a simultaneous decline in the white-collar job market in the country.

Hirings were down by 21% in 2024 although both job categories and the total number of open positions showed a modest increase. The focus of companies in centralizing their support functions, such as customer service and finance, in offshore global hubs outside the UAE are contributing to this downturn.

However, sales and business development positions remain in high demand due to their crucial role in driving growth for startups and new companies entering the UAE market.

Although companies continue to face challenges in sourcing talents for such sales and business development positions, the roles have remained in high demand. Demand for workers at entry-level positions, like receptionists and front-office staff, have also risen, with a specifically increased demand for foundational staff to support new commercial ventures.

“The UAE is a dynamic hub offering a pool of skilled workforce,” said Nikhil Nanda, Director at Innovations Group. “It is important for specialized recruitment agencies to develop strategic approaches to address hiring challenges and skill mismatches. With expertise in global recruitment and associated services, Innovations Group, is well-positioned to help businesses meet these growing needs and tackle challenges through holistic approach to hiring.”

In the upcoming year, a few key trends will shape the future of the job market in the UAE, as per the report. TFor starters, the trend of embracing remote work options is expected to continue in 2025, with more organizations adopting flexible work arrangements, including remote and hybrid work models.

The rapidly advancing AI technologies are also poised to transform the recruitment process. AI tools will continue to be leveraged at work, with 74% of professionals in the MENA region agreeing that AI tools can help them do their job better. As such, AI advancements are expected to speed up the entire recruitment process -by automating tasks like resume screening and interview scheduling, improving candidate sourcing, and reducing bias through data-driven decision. Another trend rapidly gaining momentum is skills-based hiring, with emphasis on the specific skillset and abilities of candidates instead of traditional markers like educational qualifications.

Award-Winning Author Chaker Khazaal Launches AI Scholarships to Digitally Empower Lebanon’s Youth

Acclaimed author and humanitarian Chaker Khazaal has unveiled an initiative aimed at empowering youth in Lebanon with the skills needed to thrive in the digital economy. Offered in partnership with the Lebanese American University (LAU) and Talentdu, 20 fully funded scholarships in artificial intelligence (AI) and digital marketing will be offered to young people from vulnerable communities, equipping them with the tools to shape a tech-driven future for Lebanon.

Khazaal, who serves as the President of the Women’s Humanitarian Organisation (PWHO), an organization founded in 1993 by his late mother, Dr. Olfat Mahmoud, continues her legacy of empowering marginalized communities through education and capacity-building. In the wake of Lebanon’s economic hardships, this initiative seeks to harness the power of AI and digital innovation to contribute to the country’s long-term stability and growth.

“Investing in AI education is not just an opportunity; it’s a necessity for Lebanon’s economic revival,” said Khazaal. “Our goal is to empower youth with the critical digital skills that will enable them to access local and global job markets, contribute to rebuilding Lebanon, and drive innovation within their communities.”

With Lebanon now facing an urgent need to modernize its economic landscape and embrace digital transformation as a key driver for recovery, the PWHO AI and Digital Marketing Training Program directly addresses this by equipping young people with practical knowledge in AI and digital marketing.

The fully funded scholarships will cover an intensive four-month program consisting of:

Comprehensive AI and Digital Marketing Training: Covering key topics such as AI applications, data-driven decision-making, social media strategy, and automation.

Certified Recognition: Participants will receive certification from LAU’s Academy of Continuing Education (ACE), enhancing their employability and professional standing. Page of 1 2

Practical Implementation: Students will apply their newly acquired skills to support PWHO’s operations, helping digitize processes and enhance outreach programs in areas such as healthcare, education, and humanitarian aid.

Internship Opportunities: Top-performing participants will be offered internships with leading digital marketing agencies, gaining hands-on experience and exposure to international markets.

Khazaal’s initiative reflects a broader movement to position Lebanon as a regional hub for digital innovation and entrepreneurship, despite the country’s recent economic and political challenges. By investing in AI education and digital marketing skills, the program hopes to provide a sustainable solution to youth unemployment. “This initiative is just the beginning,” added Khazaal. “Through this beta phase, we aim to showcase the potential of such programs and attract further support to expand the initiative, allowing more youth to participate and contribute to Lebanon’s digital economy.”

Applications for the program are now open to youth aged up to 25. Aspiring candidates can apply at the official PWHO website by February 14, 2025.

Related: Navigating Necessity: How Lebanon’s 2019 Economic Collapse Led Rudy Younes To Build Two Startups That Are Now Hitting Six-Figure Revenueshttps://entm.ag/n24GOD

Alabbar Once Removed All Job Titles at Emaar. Did it Work?

It was an email sent early on July 21, 2020, to thousands of Emaar employees that caught every single one them by surprise. Not even fellow board directors had an inkling of what was coming from the company’s founder Mohamed Alabbar.

“When you reach the end of this email, you will notice something different. I have no job title. And from this moment onwards, nor do you,” he wrote.

In one single email, and in one full swoop, Alabbar had completely restructured the way Emaar was being run.

His email explained: “The recent pandemic has forced us to pause and reflect on every aspect of our business. The products we produce, the systems we use, the people we employ – and most importantly, the culture we create. The challenges we face now will be greater than ever, which is why I now want us to focus on talent, not titles.”

Alabbar said new business cards issued to employees would simply state their name with the department.

“For Emaar to continue to succeed, it is vital that every single one of our employees feels empowered to contribute. I want to ensure that this propulsion to move outside of our comfort zone, is ingrained in our culture. Our values and our DNA reflect our commitment to enrich the lives of people by winning together, by taking bold actions and complete ownership and by displaying speed in execution. Emaar is not a collection of talented individuals, but a team of great pooled talent. Today, I am announcing what is the smallest change that will have the biggest impact for generations to come.”

Although Emaar employees were initially stunned by the decision, it was not unique in the corporate world (though had never been done in the Middle East in any multi-billion-dollar operation).

Related: The 100: Mohamed Alabbar, Founder, Emaar Properties

Many companies are now eliminating job titles to create a more flexible, inclusive, and innovative work environment. This bold shift is not just a trend but a reflection of deeper changes in how organizations operate and adapt in a fast-changing world.

Much of Alabbar’s thinking is thought to have been inspired by Brian Robertson, who created ‘Holacracy’ and founded ‘HolacracyOne’. This was the first attempt at defining a management system that replaces traditional roles with self-organizing teams.

According to Robertson’s book on the subject, “Holacracy distributes authority and decision-making throughout an organization, and defines people not by hierarchy and titles, but by roles. Holacracy creates organizations that are fast, agile, and that succeed by pursuing their purpose, not following a dated and artificial plan.”

The very first concept of removing job titles has its roots in the “flat organization” movement of the 1980s. This approach aimed to decentralize decision-making and empower employees at all levels. However, the idea gained significant traction with Frederic Laloux’s 2014 book Reinventing Organizations.

Laloux introduced the concept of ‘teal organizations’, which prioritize self-management, shared leadership, and purpose-driven work. These organizations challenge the traditional hierarchy, advocating for systems that value contributions over status.

One of the bigger pioneers of the concept was Zappos, the online retailer known for its customer service. It made headlines in 2014 when CEO Tony Hsieh implemented the Robertson modules of Holacracy. The aim was to eliminate bureaucracy and empower employees to take ownership of their work. While the move boosted innovation and collaboration, it also faced resistance. Some employees struggled with the lack of clarity in roles, leading to a turnover rate of 18% in the first year of implementation.

Global insurer AXA introduced a “level system” to replace traditional job titles. This approach emphasizes employees’ skills and contributions rather than their position in a hierarchy. By focusing on roles and responsibilities, AXA aims to create a more dynamic and adaptable workforce.

In its tech and product departments, Spotify has adopted a semi-title-free system. Teams operate with a high degree of autonomy, focusing on delivering results rather than adhering to rigid role definitions. This approach aligns with the company’s emphasis on innovation and creativity, particularly in a competitive industry like music streaming.

This Swiss bank Basellandschaftliche Kantonalbank has gone a step further by removing titles altogether. Employees are hired based on their skills and achievements, not the labels attached to their roles. This strategy has enhanced collaboration and minimized internal competition, fostering a more cohesive work environment.

While title-free structures are still relatively uncommon, many organizations are exploring this approach. Startups, known for their agility, often adopt flatter hierarchies to stay competitive. Consulting firms like Deloitte have also begun experimenting with non-traditional structures, reflecting the preferences of a younger workforce that values purpose and flexibility over status.

But does it work financially? Emaar hasn’t given any numbers to show the impact of the change more than four years ago. But flattening organizational hierarchies can reduce middle management layers, leading to significant cost savings. These savings can be redirected toward innovation, employee development, or other strategic priorities.

Employees in title-free environments often report higher job satisfaction and engagement. The emphasis on collaboration and collective goals can lead to better teamwork and higher productivity.

Millennials and Gen Z workers are particularly drawn to organizations that prioritize impact over hierarchy. Title-free workplaces often appeal to these demographics, improving talent acquisition and retention.

However, the transition comes with risks. Without clear role definitions, decision-making processes can become ambiguous, and accountability may suffer. Zappos, for instance, faced challenges in balancing autonomy with responsibility, leading to mixed reviews of its Holacracy model.

And then there is the oldest problem of all: the ego. Staff who may have spent years working their way up the corporate ladder can be significantly demotivated if their titles are stripped away, especially at executive levels.

The move toward title-free workplaces reflects broader changes in organizational culture. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of remote work and flexible hours, challenging traditional notions of hierarchy. As organizations adapt to these changes, many are rethinking how they define roles, measure success, and motivate employees.

Younger generations are driving this shift. Millennials and Gen Z workers often prioritize purpose, autonomy, and collaboration over traditional markers of success like job titles. By removing titles, companies can create environments that align with these values, fostering innovation and adaptability.

While the benefits of title-free workplaces are significant, the transition is not without challenges: Employees may struggle to understand their responsibilities without clear titles, leading to confusion and potential conflicts.

Long-time employees may resist the move, particularly if they perceive titles as a mark of their achievements. And in flatter organizations, consensus-driven processes can slow down decision-making, impacting efficiency.

Emaar’s move was certainly bold, and could be repeated at other Alabbar-led companies such as the e-commerce giant Noon. But whether other major organizations will join the trend remains to be seen.

ADGM’s New All-in-One Mobile App Set to Enhance Connectivity With the Financial Hub

Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), the UAE capital’s international financial center, has launched its all-in-one mobile app, which aims to redefine how businesses, employees, and residents engage within the financial district. Designed to streamline connectivity, the app provides seamless access to exclusive tools and services, enhancing the overall experience within ADGM’s community.

An all-in-one digital solution for businesses and professionals, the ADGM App offers real-time updates on regulatory developments, compliance calendars, commercial license renewals, and an exclusive professional networking feature to foster collaboration and unlock business opportunities within the community. For residents and visitors, it provides access to lifestyle features, cultural activities, exclusive offers, and a range of services designed to elevate their experience within the financial district.

“As a leading international financial center, ADGM remains committed to driving innovation and operational excellence,” said Salem Mohammed Al Darei, CEO of ADGM Authority. “The launch of the ADGM App is a significant step forward in enhancing connectivity within our ecosystem, reinforcing our dedication to creating a digitally advanced, collaborative environment that fosters growth and progress across all sectors of our community.”

This initiative underscores ADGM’s commitment to fostering collaboration, supporting sustainable development, and enhancing engagement across Abu Dhabi’s ecosystem. Strategic partnerships with key stakeholders such as Hub71, ADIO, Aldar Properties, The Galleria, and Numou have enabled the integration of key services into the ADGM App, ensuring a seamless, efficient, and enriching user experience.

Sharjah Announces New Creative Quarter to Attract Talent in Fashion, Jewellery, Design, and Handicrafts

H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has issued an Emiri Decree establishing and organizing the Sharjah Creative Quarter (SCQ).

The decree establishes the SCQ as a dedicated hub for innovation and creativity, equipped with legal authority and financial and administrative independence to fulfill its objectives. Fully owned by the Sharjah government, the SCQ aims to support creative industries and talents across various design fields.

Headquartered in University City, Sharjah, the SCQ may expand its presence to other regions within the emirate upon the Ruler’s directive. It will also oversee and collaborate with designated government and private entities, as assigned by the Head of SCQ.

Among the key objectives set by the SCQ is to create a hub for talents and professionals in fashion, jewelry, product design, and handicrafts; attract leading regional brands and promote modern design practices; and to provide manufacturing spaces and cultural hubs to support creatives and engage visitors. The SCQ will also showcase and celebrate innovative design brands and contemporary fashion in the region.

The SCQ will thus partner with local, regional, and international organizations in the design sector, and offer facilities and services to attract prominent brands and foster design innovation. It will also develop joint programs among entities under its scope, engage designers, artisans, and manufacturers in relevant fields, and seek technical and administrative assistance from specialized local authorities. Furthermore, the SCQ will organize and participate in exhibitions, workshops, and events, form contracts, agreements, and partnerships with relevant institutions, subject to approval, and also establish committees or task forces to assist in achieving its objectives.

The SCQ will operate under the leadership of a Head, appointed by Emiri Decree. Daily operations will be managed by a Director, appointed by the Head, with sufficient staff support. The Director’s responsibilities will be defined by the Head.

The decree also covers financial resources, fee exemptions, executive decisions, and implementation procedures.

Dr. Jane Goodall’s Eponymous Pollinator Garden in Dubai Brings Back the Spotlight On UAE’s Biodiversity Goals

“This is the first time I’ve worn a beekeeper’s suit, and I think having new experiences when you’re almost 91 years old is always exciting,” tells Dr. Jane Goodall, renowned ethologist and conservationist, to the group of people huddled around her as she unveils the Jane Goodall Pollinator Garden at Terra, the sustainability hub at Dubai’s Expo City.

Launched officially on January 27, 2025, the Garden is an ecological space dedicated to promoting biodiversity and the importance of pollinators, specifically native bees, in modern ecosystems.

Home to two beehives -each housing over 15,000 UAE-native Apis mellifera bees- this latest addition to Terra’s verdant landscape is all set to be a key component of its broader sustainability efforts. Indeed, the Garden’s journey began in 2019 with the discovery of a small hive of 2,000 apis mellifera bees at Terra. Upon careful nurturing, they were then reintroduced to the Garden in October 2024. In a span of three months, the population has grown to over 30,000 bees across two thriving hives.

The Jane Goodall Pollinator Garden. Source: BNC Publishing

The Jane Goodall Pollinator Garden has thus been built with a vision to create a model for ecological resilience in urban environments, while also shedding light on the importance of preserving native species and biodiversity. Dr. Goodall herself, of course, has become a name globally synonymous with environmental conservation- and her involvement with Terra’s pollinator garden is expected to support her already existing initiatives as well.

For starters, there is Roots & Shoots, the global initiative founded by Dr. Goodall in 1991 that till date encourages young people to take action within their communities. Its UAE branch was launched at Terra in January 2024. When asked how the young generations can stay committed to building a sustainable future, Dr. Goodall stresses upon the importance of consistency. “It’s difficult to give blanket advice because young people may move away [from their initial purpose and vision] for different reasons; we don’t really know,” she tells Entrepreneur Middle East in an exclusive interview. “But if you start off understanding the environment, the natural world, and you understand that we’re gradually destroying it, then you won’t leave your original thinking and purpose. You may be doing other things -you may not be spending your entire time working towards conservation or the environment- but as long as you remember it, it’s okay.”

Dr. Jane Goodall. Source: BNC Publishing

With programs jointly hosted by both Terra and Roots & Shoots UAE having collectively reached over 60,000 students in 2024, the Jane Goodall Pollinator Garden is set to continue that impact by offering educational initiatives and school programs in tandem with the Roots & Shoots network.

One such initiative has already been announced by Terra: the 100 Hives, 100 Schools program that aims to install beehives in 100 schools across the UAE, providing students with hands-on learning experiences about the vital role of pollinators in our ecosystems. “It goes back to the mission that Terra has- which is to inspire not just the minds but the hearts of people, and equip them with information that inspires them to take action,” Marjan Faraidooni, Chief of Education and Culture at Expo City Dubai, tells Entrepreneur Middle East. “One of the biggest programs we have here at Terra, is our school program where we have the opportunities and platforms for young people to not only talk about environmental challenges but also seek solutions for them. The 100 Hives, 100 Schools is really part of that mission.”

Marjan Faraidooni, Chief of Education and Culture at Expo City Dubai with Dr. Jane Goodall. Source: BNC Publishing

Faraidooni also shared insights on how Terra hopes this new initiative will create a positive ripple effect across societies in the UAE. “The reason we wanted to do this program through the UAE’s schools is because the young people are basically the hope for the future, and also the voices,” she says. “It’s a process wherein we train them, let them know the ingredients of creating a hive is in their school. So when they learn in school, we hope they go home and speak to their siblings, for example, about the importance of pollinators; that we should respect the flora and fauna no matter what their size is- in this case we’re talking about the bees. We hope they talk to their community members when they go to the playground. So we really believe that they are a great conduit to bridging this knowledge gap that can exist around certain things in the environment. What we want to do here at Terra is get people to the basics; to get people to understand the beauty and wonder of nature, and respect it, and we believe the solutions to protect the environment come from there.”

As for those interested in learning more about Terra, the Jane Goodall Pollinator Garden, and biodiversity conservation in general, Faraidooni offers some words of reassurance. “There is no judgement here; everybody is a learner,” she says. “At Terra, we’re here to transfer knowledge and show you live examples; and in this particular one, how a pollinator garden exists in an urban environment.”

The Jane Goodall Pollinator Garden is a permanent exhibit and a part of Terra; ticketing information is available at Terra’s official website.

Related: Building Momentum: One Year Since the COP28 Concluded, Here’s How the Event Has Impacted the UAE’s Private Sector