The Executive Selection: Tory Burch Presents Spring/Summer 2025 Collection

Founded in New York City in 2004, Tory Burch has redefined American luxury with a global point of view, with a purpose to empower women and women entrepreneurs.

In 2009, its founder, American designer Tory Burch, established the Tory Burch Foundation to advance women’s empowerment and entrepreneurship by providing access to capital, education and digital resources, and tackling stereotypes that hold women back.

Image courtesy: Tory Burch

The brand recently launched its e-commerce platform for the GCC region.

Related: The Executive Selection: The Versace Tag Bag

Work It Out: Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE+

Galaxy Tab S10 FE+ provides a fun, immersive viewing experience for work, entertainment, day-to-day tasks and everything in between.

Its 13.1-inch display is almost 12% larger than the previous FE+. The tablet renders smooth visuals enabled by a 90Hz refresh rate and new levels of visibility up to 800 nits HBM.
A newly upgraded 13MP high resolution rear camera produces clear and vivid photos. Now more than 4% lighter than its predecessor, Galaxy Tab S10 FE is even easier to carry around, offering hassle-free storage and mobility at home, on campus, in the workplace and elsewhere with its slim design.
Engineered for resilience and durability to withstand the elements, the FE Series also comes with the same IP68 rating as the newest Galaxy Tab S10 Series.
Samsung’s intelligent features empower you to get more done with ease, while a slimmer design helps you to be creative and productive on the go.

From Curiosity to Commitment: Steering the UAE’s Electric Vehicle Revolution

When I opened an electric vehicle (EV) centers in Rome and bologna, visitors asked whether electric cars could ever feel “real.” Today, and in Dubai, the most common question has become how rapidly we can electrify an entire region.

The Middle East electric vehicle market was valued at approximately US$ 2.8 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach US$ 10.9 billion by 2032. This highlights the strong potential and growth trajectory for EVs in the region, driven by factors such as government incentives and increased environmental awareness.

Accross the UAE, it is estimated that by 2030, EVs will have a market share of more than 15% (around 58,000 vehicles) of new passenger car (PC) and light commercial vehicle (LCV) sales, while by 2035, the share will have increased to 25%, or around 110,500 vehicles. The UAE’s EV market also witnessed exponential growth in 2024 with a revenue of US$ 2.2, and is expected to continue expanding at a compound annual growth rate of 24.2% between 2022 and 2028.
Given the existing market factors and enablers already present in the country, the EV market in UAE is considered an emergent one where the pace of expansion emphasizes the sector’s rapid growth.

Fast forward to the current day, the UAE is no longer flirting with electrification; it is at the helm of scaling it.

Infrastructure and Adoption: Converting Momentum into Mileage
This momentum, however, can only go so far without the backbone of charging infrastructure, policies, gauging the market readiness and dispelling the misconceptions surrounding adoption.For instance, most citizens in UAE believe that charging stations are rare in the UAE. In reality, the country is making significant strides in developing a comprehensive and accessible EV charging infrastructure. In fact, the UAE is investing in charging infrastructure and green transportation initiatives, further supporting the adoption of electric vehicles. Satellite data revealed that by the end of 2023, approximately 950 charging stations with 2,470 charge points were available in the UAE. Plans for growing the number of charging stations to as many as 70,000 charging points might be required in the country by 2030 to meet the evolving EV demand.
Additionally, government-led initiatives in the UAE have played a key role in expanding EV charging infrastructure, encouraging more consumers to consider purchasing an EV as their next vehicle and facilitating EV adoption.Public perception still needs attention. Many drivers in the UAE continue to believe EV batteries need replacement within five years myth that must be addressed. Bridging these knowledge gaps is as essential as expanding the infrastructure itself.
According to the 2023 Global Electric Mobility Readiness Index, the UAE ranks 7th globally, signaling notable readiness across infrastructure, policy, and market development.
Cross-Market Strategy: Lessons from Europe, Tailored for the Gulf
To overcome remaining barriers, lessons from more mature EV markets can be adapted to the regional context. One key takeaway is that retail in this space isn’t just about sales it’s about education and advocacy. And hardware alone isn’t enough interoperability is the real differentiator.
Europe’s decade-long evolution offers a blueprint that can be adapted and compressed for the Gulf. A few priorities are critical: mandating a unified plug and roaming protocol, prioritizing charger density in urban centers before highway networks, and electrifying corporate and government fleets to seed a robust resale market.
This level of acceleration doesn’t happen organically. It demands coordination. Vehicle manufacturers, energy providers, tech platforms, and regulators must all collaborate. In short, EV adoption is a team sport, and this region is uniquely positioned to lead with the infrastructure, influence, and ambition required.

The Next Five Years
Sustaining momentum requires clarity of purpose. Technology may solve problems at machine speed, but leadership must operate at the speed of policy and consensus.
What’s needed now is the translation of international experience into tailored local action. Every stakeholder—from regulators and planners to drivers and educators—must feel ownership of the journey.
The road ahead won’t be linear, but it may be faster than most anticipate. With strategic alignment across infrastructure, policy, and public awareness, the UAE has the opportunity to not just keep pace, but to define the future of electric mobility on its own terms.
The next three years are critical. We must partner boldly, invest ahead of demand, and remember: in this era, true leadership is not about who gets there first—it’s about who brings the entire ecosystem along.

UAE-Based Shurooq Marks 15 Years Of Growth With AED7.2 Billion In Investments And Partnerships Across 52 Projects

In the midst of commemorating 15 years since its inception, the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) announced that it has invested AED7.2 billion in investments across 52 projects and experiences, transforming over 60 million square feet throughout the emirate over the years.

From real estate developments to immersive experiences, its projects have been pivotal in shaping Sharjah as a thriving, future-ready destination. Among its achievements are 7.7 kilometres of developed beachfront, offering unique coastal escapes that celebrate the emirate’s natural beauty. Shurooq’s projects have also directly and indirectly generated 5,000 jobs, with 1,095 of those created through joint ventures. In addition, the authority has driven major collaborations with 10 local and international partners, highlighting the breadth of Shurooq’s influence across multiple sectors.

From real estate, tourism, and entertainment developments to integrated experiences, these initiatives have played a vital role in reinforcing Sharjah’s status as a dynamic and attractive destination. They include three major real estate projects with investments and partnerships totalling AED5 billion, and 10 distinctive projects in the hospitality sector with investments and partnerships amounting to AED 850 million. The retail and entertainment sectors saw 18 projects, with total investments exceeding AED870 million, while the arts and culture sector recorded five projects with investments reaching AED447 million. In the F&B sector, Shurooq and its partners delivered 10 projects ranging from small to medium-sized ventures. Additionally, Shurooq took part in six joint ventures with strategic partners across various sectors, reflecting its vision to diversify its investment portfolio and promote sustainable growth across all fields.

Anchored by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah; the leadership of H.E. Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of Shurooq; Shurooq has consistently prioritised sustainable economic growth and diversification. Its innovative approach, global partnerships, and focus on strategic investments has aimed to position Sharjah as a competitive destination for high-value projects and long-term growth.

Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi. Image source: Shurooq

“Shurooq’s journey over the past 15 years has been one of ambition and execution, driven by the total commitment to creating sustainable value for Sharjah,” said Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi. “The diversity and scale of our investments have transformed landscapes and lives, underpinning economic resilience and enriching cultural vibrancy. Guided by the visionary strategy of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, each project we have implemented has strengthened Sharjah’s appeal as a global destination for business, tourism, and innovation. Our success has always been rooted in strategic foresight, meaningful partnerships, and an unwavering dedication to shaping a prosperous and inclusive future.”

H.E. Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, CEO of the Shurooq. Image source: Shurooq

On his part, H.E. Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, CEO of the Shurooq, stated: “Since its inception, Shurooq has strived to be more than just a development entity — it has aimed to be a true partner in shaping Sharjah’s economic, social, and cultural future. Every project we have undertaken is rooted in a clear vision inspired by the directives of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah. With the continued support of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Authority, we have worked to bring this vision to life through integrated development projects that place people and place at the heart of growth. Shurooq’s strategy has always centred on diversity, sustainability, and impactful partnerships. Today, we are witnessing the results of this approach through projects that have delivered tangible economic and social impact and strengthened Sharjah’s regional and global competitiveness and investment appeal.”

Real estate as the bedrock of growth

The UAE’s non-oil GDP has seen substantial contributions from the real estate sector, which accounted for 7.6% of the nation’s non-oil GDP as per the UAE Ministry of Economy. Shurooq has recorded 48.9% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) in real estate sales between 2018 and 2024, showcasing strong market growth. The authority’s real estate projects include a total of 4,516 units across three world-class developments: Maryam Island, Sharjah Sustainable City, and Ajwan Khorfakkan. Of these, over 4,187 units have been sold. These projects have attracted buyers from more than 98 nationalities, contributing to Shurooq’s total real estate investments and partnerships of AED5 billion.

World-class hospitality to bring the world to Sharjah

As the UAE’s tourism and hospitality industry continues to grow, the restaurants and hotels sector secured the fifth spot in the UAE’s non-oil GDP, achieving a growth rate of 5.1% in the first half of 2024, driven by exceptional tourism activity across the country. Shurooq has played an instrumental role, developed 10 hospitality projects (seven operational, and three in the pipeline), with investments totalling AED850 million.

The seven “Sharjah Collection” properties, which are bespoke stays at heritage sites, eco-retreats, and desert escapes across the emirate, are leading sustainability practices and have been designed to focus on caring for their natural and cultural environment. To meet the growing demand of guests at these properties, Shurooq recently added 35 new rooms and simultaneously made a strategic foray into full in-house management and operation of these seven assets.

Image source: Shurooq

Image source: Shurooq

Image source: Shurooq

Shurooq’s investment in The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah, has transformed heritage houses into a cultural gem. Located in the Heart of Sharjah, this 53-key luxury hotel, managed by GHM, spanning 10,069 sq.m. combines Emirati heritage with modern indulgence, and has contributed significantly to the emirate’s tourism landscape. Its recently added Serai Wing, Bait Khalid Bin Ibrahim, introduces 12 additional rooms split between two houses within restored heritage compounds, with each house featuring private pools.

The authority’s dedication extends beyond accommodations to include world-class F&B unit spaces developed across its destinations. Nine of these units are owned and operated by Shurooq, featuring curated culinary concepts led by renowned international chefs, while the remaining outlets have been strategically leased to a selection of local and international vendors. At their Kalba Beach destination, eight new units are currently underway. These distinctive dining experiences enhance the lifestyle appeal of Shurooq’s luxury retreats, retail, and leisure destinations, enriching the overall journey for every guest.

Leisure and entertainment for an exceptional visitor experience

According to the market research firm MarkNtel Advisors, the UAE’s leisure and entertainment sector is set to expand by a 9.7% CAGR through 2027. This forecast is attributed to the increased number of attractions set up in recent years and upcoming developments. Shurooq has been at the forefront of this growth, investing AED 870 million across 18 leisure and entertainment offerings, including five unique experiences. From bustling waterfront malls to serene island escapes and adrenaline-fueled adventures, these destinations cater to diverse visitor interests while enhancing the emirate’s appeal as a premier lifestyle hub.

Image source: Shurooq

Image source: Shurooq

Image source: Shurooq

Image source: Shurooq

Al Montazah Parks (126,000 sqm); Al Hafiya Park (135,500 sqm); The Flag Island (35,963 sqm); the three Flag Squares – 8,967 sqm in Kalba, 7,063 sqm in Khorfakkan, and 1,590 sqm in Dibba Al Hisn; Sharjah Boats and City Sightseeing projects; and Sky Adventures – a joint venture project and is the first officially licensed paragliding centre in the UAE – are other notable Shurooq projects in this vertical that continue to reinforce Sharjah’s status as a hub of adventure, leisure and tourism in the UAE and the region.

As the UAE continues to prioritise investments in arts and culture, contributing to the diversification of its economy, Shurooq has made significant strides in enhancing Sharjah’s position as a cultural hub. The UAE’s cultural activities are an integral part of the nation’s economic landscape, and Shurooq has contributed AED447 million to arts and cultural initiatives. These investments have showcased the emirate’s rich heritage and its commitment to promoting cultural understanding, solidifying Sharjah’s role as a beacon of cultural excellence in the region.

Image source: Shurooq

Through visionary projects that combine eco-tourism, adventure tourism, and cultural appreciation, Shurooq has led the way in sustainability.

Image source: Shurooq

Sharjah FDI Office (Invest in Sharjah) attracting capital from all over the world

Since its establishment in 2016, the Sharjah FDI Office (Invest in Sharjah), Shurooq’s flagship initiative, has been at the forefront of promoting Sharjah as a premier investment destination. Through a total of 373 strategic initiatives and collaborations, including 57 country visits, 89 delegations, 70 global participations, and hosting 42 events, the agency has played a pivotal role in boosting investor confidence and improving business access to Sharjah. Since its inception, Invest in Sharjah has successfully attracted 617 projects, contributing to the creation of 46,761 new jobs and generating a capital investment of AED 96.75 billion in key sectors that are crucial for Sharjah’s economic diversification and future growth. These include advanced manufacturing, agri-food technology, mobility and logistics, health and wellbeing, GreenTech, human capital and innovation (education), as well as culture and tourism.

The Sharjah Investment Forum hosted annually by Invest in Sharjah – the largest event of its kind in the region – has been a cornerstone achievement, welcoming a significant number of guests, speakers, and attendees over the years. This platform has been instrumental in fostering dialogue, partnerships, and investment opportunities across various sectors.

Image source: Shurooq

Entrepreneurs at the forefront of Shurooq’s investment vision

A key component of Shurooq’s future vision is to create the maximum possible opportunity for the SME sector, particularly for local and homegrown entrepreneurs. Currently, the authority offers extremely affordable spaces between 40-500 sqm in Heart of Sharjah, alongside retail opportunities across Al Heera Beach, Khorfakkan Beach, Kalba Flagpole, amongst others.

Sharjah stands out as a prime destination for manufacturing, real estate, tourism, sustainability, culture and education. Its economy is nearly 96% non-oil based, and the emirate is playing a crucial role in the UAE’s drive to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, leveraging its strategic location. In 2022 Sharjah’s population reached 1.8 million, with a focus on a young, urban demographic. The emirate’s commitment to economic diversification is evident through initiatives supporting small businesses and investment in tourism. In 2024, the Global Startup Ecosystem Report (GSER) ranked the emirate fourth in the GCC and seventh in the MENA region in its startup ecosystem rankings.

Saudi AI-Powered Startup Jadwalna Wins Arab Open University’s Startup Competition 2025 in Riyadh

Arab Open University (AOU) concluded its inaugural Startup Competition 2025 at its Riyadh campus, celebrating the innovative achievements of student-led projects with awards presented by HRH Prince Khaled bin Alwaleed bin Talal. The event reinforced AOU’s mission to empower young entrepreneurs while supporting Vision 2030’s shift toward a knowledge-based, innovation-driven economy in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Winning startup Jadwalna is an AI-powered tourism platform that offers personalized experiences across Saudi Arabia, while providing service providers with smart marketing and payment tools. Second-place winner Sakina addresses mental health needs through culturally grounded AI tools, delivering round-the-clock support and wellness resources. Taking both third place and the most-voted award, Eco Bin is a smart waste-sorting solution that promotes sustainability through automated material detection and recycling.

Speaking at the ceremony, Prince Khaled noted that his visit to AOU felt like a return to a second home – recalling the foundational role played by the late His Royal Highness Prince Talal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud in establishing the university.

Source: Arab Open University

Prince Talal announced the AOU initiative in 1996 with a vision to create a non-traditional academic institution that would drive development in scientific, social and cultural fields. That vision became a reality in 2002 with the establishment of AOU, in cooperation with the Open University in the United Kingdom.

Source: Arab Open University

Additional finalist projects spanned a range of impactful themes – from AI-based queue management systems and non-invasive drug detection devices to emergency communication tools for non-verbal users. The cohort also included solutions focused on afforestation mapping, virtual reality communities, assistive technology for the visually impaired, and platforms connecting innovators with investors.

Source: Arab Open University

With initiatives like the AOU Startup Competition, the Arab Open University continues to position itself as a launchpad for ambitious talent and a driver of entrepreneurial progress in the region.

Related: What Investors Look For When Evaluating Your Pitch: HRH Prince Khaled Bin Alwaleed Bin Talal

Reclaiming Your Audience: When and How to Refresh Your Brand

A regular brand review is just as important for your business as a financial health check, but when is the right time to take on the task? When business is buoyant, there seems little logic in disrupting a winning formula, and when times are tougher, budgets are tight.

A rebrand is often a catalyst for injecting some much-needed fuel into business performance. Refining your positioning, narrative, and visual identity helps you to remain relevant, engaging, and future-proof.

What’s more, it doesn’t necessarily mean a complete brand overhaul, it might simply be a case of exploring a fresh perspective, reigniting your brand identity and unlocking its untapped potential.

When should you refresh your brand?

Engaging and retaining your audience is a constant challenge in a crowded marketplace. Brands sometimes find themselves in a state of inertia, held back by outdated perceptions, inconsistent messaging, or a lack of modern appeal. It’s likely that, at some point, you’ll need to recapture attention with a new look or tone. Here are some indicators that your brand needs a refresh.

How to refresh your brand

A brand refresh doesn’t just mean changing your logo; in fact, that’s often the last thing you should do. Nor does it mean a dramatic overhaul of your entire identity. Small or subtle adjustments based on your current business strategy could be all it takes to deliver the modernisation needed. There are four key steps to revamping your brand in a systematic way.

Discover To understand what you might need to change, you need to establish where you stand in the market. Benchmarking against your competitors enables you to explore what you can do differently to stand out. Speaking to your customers helps you to understand how you are perceived in the market and whether this truly reflects your values. Brand audits are often overlooked because of the enthusiasm to move straight to the visual identity, but this deep dive into your brand’s history, market position, and audience perception helps you to identify your strengths, weaknesses, and untapped opportunities.

Define Your brand is the material representation of your organisation’s vision, mission, and values and so it is essential that these are clearly defined from the outset. The company culture and values should underpin everything from your colour palate to your strategic messaging, to ensure that the essence of who you are and what you stand for is evident. A clear, compelling, and cohesive brand narrative will enable you to resonate with internal and external audiences.

Develop Conducting the discover and define stages in partnership with all relevant stakeholders will help the development phase be more efficient. A shared understanding of the marketplace and a clear vision of your unique place within it helps to streamline decision-making and steer away from passing trends that will not stand out. This means that, rather than working up several different options for your core messaging and visual identity, you can use these shared foundations to modernise or refine existing assets while maintaining brand recognition.

Deploy When you’re ready to deploy your new brand identity, you can run a playback of the discover and define stages, to validate that the persona and assets created fully align with the vision and values they represent. Revamping digital and print assets should involve internal alignment sessions and an update to brand guidelines ,to ensure a consistent, impactful presence across all channels.

A brand should never stand still, it should evolve with purpose, staying relevant and engaging without losing its soul. Liberating your brand through a structured approach will enable it to remain fresh, relevant, and impactful in an ever-evolving landscape.

Related: Rebuilding Brand Trust in a Distracted Economy

Ohana Development Launches AED4.7 Billion Project “Jacob & Co. Beachfront Living by Ohana”

UAE-headquartered real estate developer Ohana Development has officially launched ‘Jacob & Co. Beachfront Living by Ohana’ in partnership with global luxury timepiece and jewelry brand Jacob & Co. Located in Al Jurf -between Dubai and Abu Dhabi- the AED 4.7 billion project has successfully blended its natural surroundings with professional artistry and craftsmanship.

Revealed at an exclusive event held at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental in Abu Dhabi, on May 12, 2025, the announcement was made in the presence of Husein Salem, CEO of Ohana Development, and Jacob Arabo, Chairman and Creative Director of Jacob & Co.

Jacob & Co. Beachfront Living by Ohana has a collection of 457 residential units comprising seaview apartments, villas, penthouses, Sky Mansions and beachfront mansions —each designed to embody refined coastal living. The penthouses, which feature 180-degree views and spacious interiors, start from AED22 million. Meanwhile, the Sky Mansions -spacious rooftop residences offering 360-degree views and dedicated private elevators for ultimate exclusivity- start from a base price of AED77 million. Additionally, fully customizable three to six-bedroom villas and mansions—each featuring a private pool—are available with natural reserve views or as canal-front locations, while the Beachfront Mansions offer panoramic sea views.

With direct access to Dubai’s Sheikh Zayed Road, the development offers seamless connectivity to the UAE’s key destinations, including Abu Dhabi International Airport, Palm Jebel Ali, and Al Maktoum International Airport.

Ohana Development’s CEO Salem noted that the entire project was built with an aim to set a new benchmark for refined design and luxury living. “Our vision for Jacob & Co. Beachfront Living by Ohana is to elevate the beachfront living experience by developing an exclusive sanctuary along the coast,” he added. “Through this collaboration with Jacob & Co., we are setting a new benchmark for what beachfront residences can embody in the UAE. More than just a residential community, we are crafting a destination—a seaside haven where curated experiences, timeless elegance, and natural tranquillity converge to offer a lifestyle of distinction.”

On the other hand, Jacob & Co.’s Arabo, added: “Working closely with Ohana Development, we have woven our legacy of artistic excellence and ultra-luxury lifestyle into every aspect of this endeavour. Jacob & Co. Beachfront Living by Ohana is our tribute to coastal artistry, where visionary design, craftsmanship, and the allure of the sea merge to create unparalleled homes.”

At the heart of the development is the Jacob & Co. Social Club, a world-first concept in exclusive living. The club features the first branded Seafront Cigar Lounge by Jacob & Co., an executive business centre with private meeting suites, and the world’s first members-only Jacob & Co. Residents Club, showcasing a curated watch gallery alongside rotating art exhibitions.

Upon arrival, residents are welcomed into a grand entrance and lobby atrium where a striking 10-meter-wide Jacob & Co. ceiling art timepiece—the largest of its kind globally—reimagines the traditional chandelier, setting the tone for an environment where art, innovation, and luxury harmoniously coexist. The development also unveils the world’s first Jacob & Co. Beach Club, a seaside destination offering an array of fine-dining concepts and beachside restaurants.

Nestled amidst a protected natural reserve and diverse wildlife, Jacob & Co. Beachfront Living by Ohana offers the opportunity to “embrace a lifestyle deeply connected to nature.” The architecture features flowing, curved façades inspired by the movement of the sea, while the buildings’ forms subtly reflect the initials ‘J’ and ‘C’ in homage to Jacob & Co.

Scheduled for completion by the second quarter of 2028, Jacob & Co. Beachfront Living by Ohana is expected to become a global benchmark in luxury beachfront living.

Related: The 100: Husein Salem, CEO, Ohana Development

The Final Pitch Dubai Unveils Investor-Judges; Entrepreneurs Can Apply by May 27, 2025

Four of Dubai’s industry leaders have been named as investor-judges on the upcoming business reality TV show The Final Pitch Dubai, the UAE edition of Asia’s longest-running business reality TV show.

The lineup features Cypher Capital Founding Partner and Phoenix Group PLC co-founder Bijan Alizadeh, “The Wolf of Real Estate” CEO and Managing Partner of Harbor Real Estate Dr. Mohanad Alwadiya, Founding Partner of Incubayt Investments Ltd. Sami Khoreibi, and founder and Managing Partner of Triliv Holdings Jigar Sagar.

The series introduces a proven format that empowers ambitious founders through targeted mentorship by domain experts, an all-access personal tour of the investor-judges’ businesses, and funding and collaboration opportunities.

Tasked with evaluating high-potential pitches, the investor-judge panel will challenge founders to refine their ideas, while offering access to markets, strategic resources, and smart capital.

UAE-based and non-UAE based international entrepreneurs looking to pitch their business to the panel of investor-judges can apply by May 27, 2025, on TheFinalPitch.world.

The show is produced by production company Dragon’s Nest, and supported in the UAE by its local production partner Ti22 Films.

It will be filmed entirely in Dubai and is set to go into production in June 2025 across key locations in the city. It will exclusively air on OSN and OSN+ in Q4.

“Dubai is one of the most exciting places in the world to build and grow a business right now,” said John Aguilar, creator and host of The Final Pitch and Founder of Dragon’s Nest, LLC FZ, the business and media investment firm bringing the show to the region. “Our mission has always been to spotlight visionary founders and connect them with real opportunities for investment and mentorship. With this first UAE edition in Dubai, we aim to contribute meaningfully to the country’s vision of fostering entrepreneurship, innovation and a knowledge-based economy – by helping build the next generation of business leaders.”

UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment, H.E. Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Sheds a Spotlight on the UAE’s Climate Financing Strides at DFS 2025

During a fireside chat on day one of the Dubai Fintech Summit 2025 -the third edition of an annual event by DIFC that convenes regional and global fintech stakeholders, which was held from May 12-13 this year- H.E. Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment, noted that the UAE “has always been a supporter for countries to achieve their climate action and climate agenda.”

Moderated by Lenah Hassaballah, editor and presenter at CNN Business Arabic, the conversation put a spotlight on the intersection of sustainability, policy, and economic growth.

The UAE’s Loss and Damage Fund -an initiative launched during 2023’s COP28 which is aimed at assisting developing countries most vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change- was the opening point of discussion. “I would like to start by reminding everyone that the operationalization of the Loss and Damage Fund happened on the very first day of COP28, where we witnessed the pledge from the UAE of US$100 million to support this fund,” Dr. Al Dahak noted. “And from there, we have seen the ball rolling and the momentum being gained. Up until today -as of March 2025- we have US$766 million pledged into the Loss and Damage Fund from 25 countries.”

Dr. Al Dahak then emphasized that the UAE has been deeply committed to aiding the communities that have been the first to be affected by the ongoing climate crisis- a pivotal reason behind the formation of the Fund in the first place. “It was essential to make sure that this fund is moving forward because, well, the UAE…we’re always about impactful action, and we have seen the need for this,” Dr. Al Dahak added. “And the operationalization of this fund shows the global commitment toward achieving or supporting those countries and their climate agendas. Now, since then, we have seen the progress in this fund as per the third board meeting in September 2024, which took place in Baku…So we can see now that all the groundwork has been laid for this fund to operationalize and become into action. Now, we need to make sure through all international conversations and through multilateral platforms that are focused on climate action, that those countries who have committed and pledged to support this fund -which was announced in COP29 in Baku to be currently fully operationalized- continue to translate those pledges into actions to make sure that resources are available and accessible for those countries and the most vulnerable communities at the moment.”

These opening remarks from Dr. Al Dahak eventually steered the fireside chat towards the urgency surrounding, and opportunities presented by, aligning financial systems with climate goals. At the crux of this conversation was the ALTÉRRA Fund- said to be the world’s largest climate investment fund with a goal to mobilize US$250 billion globally by 2030 towards climate-related investments and initiative that supports the global transition to a low-carbon economy. Launched in the midst of 2023’s COP28 in the UAE, it aims to not only mobilize capital for climate initiatives, particularly in developing countries, but also seeks to bridge the climate finance gap.

But Dr. Al Dahak noted that even before addressing the aforementioned issues, the ALTÉRRA Fund sought to, first and foremost, “change the people’s perception about investment.”

“We want people to know that investment, the return on investment and the return on the environment with respect to climate action and climate agenda can go hand in hand,” she said. “Two words we have been hearing from Dr. Sultan Al Jaber [the COP28 President] is that we have to be practical and pragmatic. So we have to always ensure that we’re translating action in a way that is providing more innovative solutions but also making the investment where it matters. The ALTÉRRA Fund started, or rather was announced, in COP 28 with a commitment of $30 billion [from the UAE]. And it is designed, from the very beginning, to mobilize up to $250 billion by 2030 and with a completely different paradigm than what is understood to be, or what is looked at, as investment funds.”

Ultimately, these efforts by the UAE are to, quite simply, make climate action “affordable, accessible and at scale to the most vulnerable communities,” reiterated Dr. Al Dahak- a strategy that moderator Hassaballah noted as a “win-win situation.” “The most important thing is that it’s designed with the right return on investment model but at the same time the right return on environment as well,” Dr. Al Dahak declared.

As the conversation then moved into the realms of climate change challenges, the growing significance of clean energy models and the need to create more innovative models of climate financing. Dr. Al Dahak further stressed upon the UAE’s role in “green transition” and in helping businesses efficiently reach their net zero goals.

Watch the full video to gather more insights from this DFS 2025 fireside chat!

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

Dubai To Enable Cryptocurrency Payments for Government Fees

The Department of Finance in Dubai Government (DOF) has partnered with cryptocurrency trading platform Crypto.com to enable the payment of government service fees using cryptocurrencies.

The signing took place on the sidelines of DOF and Crypto.com’s participation in the Dubai FinTech Summit at the Dubai International Financial Centre.


The partnership supports the implementation of the Dubai Cashless Strategy by enabling secure, efficient and inclusive financial transactions through cryptocurrencies. It also paves the way for Dubai’s transition to a fully digital, cashless society by empowering the Government of Dubai to introduce a new digital payment channel across its official platforms.

The Dubai Cashless Strategy is expected to drive economic growth by adding at least AED8 billion annually to the economy, fuelled by the development of a wide range of innovative financial technology services and the accelerated expansion of Dubai’s fintech sector.

Once the necessary technical arrangements for the agreement’s activation are finalized, individuals and businesses customers of government entities will be able to pay service fees seamlessly through Crypto.com’s digital wallets.

The platform will securely convert these payments into Emirati dirhams (AED) and transfer them to Dubai Finance accounts, ensuring a streamlined, secure, and innovative payment framework.

His Excellency Abdulla Mohammed Al Basti, Secretary General of The Executive Council of Dubai, said that adopting secure cryptocurrency solutions within the Government of Dubai’s payment system reflects a proactive approach to anticipating future needs and responding to global economic and financial developments.

“Dubai continues to advance through coordinated efforts across government entities and key sectors to meet and exceed the expectations of individuals, businesses, and the wider community. As a global leader in digital transformation, the emirate is further strengthening its position by deploying the latest secure financial technology solutions that support its cashless strategy, streamline government transactions, and foster innovation in financial services. I extend my sincere appreciation to the Department of Finance for enabling new global partnerships that support the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and reinforce Dubai’s status as a global hub for innovation,” Al Basti said.

His Excellency Abdulrahman Saleh Al Saleh, Director General of DOF, said, “We take great pride in Dubai Finance’s key role in driving the Dubai Cashless Strategy and shaping a distinctive digital financial future. As we stand at the forefront of a transformative financial revolution, we underscore the significance of the MoU with Crypto.com in accelerating the strategy’s objectives—aligning with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to enhance Dubai’s global standing in digital payments. We remain committed to collaborating with our partners across government entities and leading financial service providers to advance the digital payment ecosystem and develop innovative solutions that support the rapidly evolving digital economy.”

Eric Anziani, President and COO of Crypto.com, said, “The Government of Dubai has been a true global visionary with its plans for a cashless society. We are proud to be selected to support Dubai’s Department of Finance as part of this initiative, which will see Crypto.com enable the delivery of the first comprehensive and holistic Government-wide implementation of payment digitisation. We are excited to bring our capabilities and innovative thinking to catalyse this progress and we recognise the exceptional vision of Dubai’s leadership in shaping the future of economic growth with ambitious programmes such as these.”