March 2025

Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi (SUAD) proudly celebrates International Women’s Day with a series of initiatives throughout the month, reaffirming its commitment to gender equality, cultural recognition, and the empowerment of women through education, research, and the arts. Under the theme ‘For ALL Women and Girls: Rights, Equality, and Empowerment’, SUAD has announced the launch of a series of impactful initiatives that honour female trailblazers and support future generations of women leaders.

Advancing Research & Knowledge: Call for Proposals on Celebrating Women’s Voices

SUAD remains at the forefront of championing scientific research and cultural initiatives that highlight women’s achievements and promote gender equality. In honour of International Women’s Day, SUAD has launched a Call for Proposals, inviting scholars, artists, and researchers to explore women’s contributions, rights, and empowerment across academic and creative disciplines. This initiative seeks to honour women’s legacies, highlight their impact in the UAE and beyond, and inspire future generations of female leaders.

Participants are encouraged to submit proposals focusing on advancing women’s rights through research or empowering women through cultural and community-based initiatives. Selected projects will receive funding, mentorship, and institutional support, with expected outcomes including research papers, policy recommendations, digital archives, exhibitions, and performances. The submission deadline is 15 April, with projects set to commence in September 2025.

Honouring an Icon: A Tribute to Umm Kulthum

As a highlight of this year’s celebrations and to follow on its tradition to dedicate campus spaces to iconic influential women, SUAD will dedicate its iconic Oval Room to the legendary Umm Kulthum. Revered as one of the greatest voices of the Arab world, Umm Kulthum’s music transcended borders and generations, standing as a symbol of resilience, artistry, and empowerment. She will be the 5^th women to join the University’s pantheon after Olympe de Gouges, Simone de Beauvoir, Germaine Tillion, and Marie Curie as Sorbonne Abu Dhabi honours trailblazing women whose achievements, contributions, and lasting impact have shaped history. The university actively raises awareness of their legacy to inspire future generations. To honour her legacy and mark the 50th anniversary of her passing, SUAD will host a special tribute concert by renowned artist Ghalia Benali on 16 April at Zayed Theatre, sponsored by Abu Dhabi Mall and patroned by Nadine Kaaki Al Nowais. Known for her soulful interpretations of classical Arabic music, Benali will revive Umm Kulthum’s timeless melodies, celebrating her cultural and societal impact.

 Umm Kulthum was not only an exceptional artist but also a powerful voice for emancipation and dignity. Among her many unforgettable performances, her historic 1967 concert at L’Olympia in Paris stands as a testament to her enduring legacy.

Celebrating Women in the Arts: ‘Lumières de Femmes’ Art Exhibition

Running until 29 March, the ‘Lumières de Femmes’ art exhibition at SUAD’s Atrium showcases the creativity, resilience, and cultural expressions of 23 French and Francophone women artists based in the UAE. This collaboration between Feminin PlurielCollective- an international network empowering women across various professional and artistic fields- and AD’Art Collective, a Francophone community of artists in Abu Dhabi dedicated to cultivating creativity and artistic exchange, highlights the transformative power of artistic expression in advancing gender equality.

Featuring French artists and Emirati artist Khulood Al Jabri, the exhibition is a tribute to women’s contributions to the arts, offering a captivating experience for art enthusiasts, students, and the wider community. The exhibition is proudly supported by esteemed arts patrons and friends of Sorbonne Abu Dhabi Fairouz and Jean-Paul Villain.

Women@Dior & UNESCO: Empowering Future Female Leaders

Reaffirming its dedication to empowering young women, SUAD is proud to announce that five of its outstanding students have been selected for the prestigious Women@Dior & UNESCO Mentoring and Education Programme for 2025-2026. Since 2017, SUAD’s Career Centre has collaborated with Dior to promote gender equality through this transformative mentorship initiative.

This global programme nurtures female leaders by providing mentorship, leadership training, and access to exclusive Dior & UNESCO educational resources on sustainability, self-awareness, and inclusion. Participants will engage in inspiring conversations with women leaders and receive valuable mentorship from Dior professionals.

This year, Lalia Soumare and Ana Nahapeytan, Master’s students in Foreign Languages and International Business Management, Rita Taouaf, a Bachelor’s student in Law, Economics, and Management, and Nicole Weber and Najla Almatrooshi, Bachelor’s students in Philosophy and Sociology, will embark on this remarkable journey.

Additionally, SUAD students will take part in the Dream for Change Project, an initiative designed to drive gender equality and social impact. Through this programme, students will collaborate on projects that empower women and advocate for a more inclusive and sustainable future.

Reaffirming SUAD’s commitment to lasting change, Professor Nathalie Martial-Braz, Chancellor of Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, commented: “At Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, we believe that education & research are a powerful agent of change, capable of breaking barriers and shaping a more equitable society. This month, we honour the voices of the past, celebrate the achievements of today, and invest in the changemakers of tomorrow. Our mission is intrinsically linked to promoting equality and preserving women’s rights. We firmly believe that education & research open infinite horizons, and we are committed to creating an environment where women can thrive, equipped with the right resources and support to drive positive change in our societies.”

Through these initiatives, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi continues to be at the forefront of championing women’s empowerment, fostering a culture where every woman and girl can reach her full potential.

DP World has launched a cutting-edge electric freight solution at Jebel Ali Port in partnership with Einride, marking a major step towards decarbonising terminal operations. Now running around-the-clock, the first wave of the electric fleet is set to move over 204,000 twenty-foot containers annually, supporting DP World’s efforts to accelerate the transition to greener logistics.

The project is part of a groundbreaking partnership between DP World and Einride signed in May 2024 to electrify inter-terminal container flows at Jebel Ali Port, the largest seaport in the Middle East. It aligns with DP World’s broader sustainability agenda which includes electrifying its fleet of internal terminal vehicles (ITVs) and implementing innovative partnerships to reduce emissions.

The initiative will reduce 14,600 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) annually, compared to diesel operations, supporting DP World’s science-based targets (SBTi) and ambition to make global trade smarter and greener.

Abdulla Bin Damithan, CEO and Managing Director, DP World GCC, said: “Decarbonising logistics is a core priority for DP World. We are actively electrifying our operations, integrating AI-powered solutions and working closely with our partners like Einride to support our net zero goals. As the 10^th busiest port globally, Jebel Ali is setting the benchmark for the electrification of transport in high-volume trade hubs.”

Robert Falck, CEO and Founder at Einride, said: “This marks the first of many milestones as we set out to have the largest deployment of electric, autonomous freight mobility in the Middle East. The UAE is uniquely positioned to lead this sustainable transition given its forward-thinking approach to innovation, and we are proud to drive this in partnership with DP World.”

The electric fleet is being deployed as part of a multi-phased rollout, which integrates Einride’s full platform, including electric vehicles, charging infrastructure, and the AI-driven Einride Saga operating system. A second wave will follow later this year, and the full fleet in 2026 – capable of moving 2 million twenty-foot containers annually. This tiered deployment uses Einride’s data-driven analysis to optimise cost and operational efficiency while laying the groundwork for future autonomous deployment.

With today’s announcement, these vehicles are now actively transporting goods within Jebel Ali Port, using Einride’s technology to make container handling more sustainable.

The UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 commitment highlights the growing role of clean mobility in national and regional sustainability agendas. DP World’s leadership in deploying electric freight solutions positions Jebel Ali Port at the forefront of this transition, setting a precedent for regional and global trade hubs.

Finastra today announced that the successful implementation of Finastra Kondor and cloud-based managed services provided by DXC Technology (NYSE: DXC), a leading Fortune 500 global technology services provider, enabled Vision Bank, a Sharia-compliant, digital bank in Saudi Arabia, to launch the pilot phase of its banking operations. Finastra’s best-of-breed treasury trading system allowed the bank to upgrade its capabilities for asset and liability management, liquidity management, trading and investment, foreign exchange, capital adequacy and reserve management. The deployment of the solution on cloud also aligns with the digital bank’s broader strategy of creating better user experiences while keeping pace with new demands.

“Our mission is to be a pioneer in the Saudi banking sector, relying on innovation and technology to provide seamless, Sharia-compliant banking solutions that meet our customers’ needs,” said Abdul Shakeel Aidaroos, CEO at Vision Bank. “To help us achieve this, we needed a robust treasury management system with cloud-based managed services that enable us to grow while mitigating risks. Finastra and DXC ensure that we can comply with current and upcoming regulations, drive business continuity and maximum availability, and scale the rollout of new products as needed. We are also contributing to the goals of the Financial Sector Development Program, one of the programs of Saudi Vision 2030.”

Finastra Kondor is a best-of-breed treasury trading system that meets financial institutions’ needs for sophisticated treasury functionality, while enabling growth and ensuring compliance. Renowned for its robust capabilities in supporting complex trading, risk management and operations, the solution is the backbone of numerous financial institutions, enabling them to navigate the intricate landscape of global markets with precision and agility. The successful implementation of the solution, alongside managed services provided by DXC, played a vital role in Vision Bank, formerly known as the Saudi Digital Bank, recently obtaining no objection from the Saudi Central Bank and launching the pilot phase of its banking operations.

“Vision Bank’s growth ambitions and customer-centric ethos align closely to the values we hold at Finastra,” said Wissam Khoury, EVP, Treasury & Capital Markets at Finastra. “The implementation of Kondor played a significant role in the bank’s launch and digital transformation journey, providing the necessary agility to evolve with new demands and take advantage of the opportunities presented by Saudi Arabia’s financial services sector. Working alongside DXC, it has been a pleasure to help Vision Bank reach this milestone and we look forward to its ongoing success.”

“DXC is proud to have partnered with Finastra and Vision Bank to successfully deliver Kondor as the bank’s fully hosted and managed treasury system,” said Anthony Hammond, Global Finastra Lead at DXC. “This collaboration underscores our commitment to driving innovation in financial technology, providing a secure, scalable and future-ready solution that enhances the bank’s treasury operations.”

Fabtech Engineering, a steel fabrication specialist based at Dubai Industrial City, has entered a strategic agreement with French industrial leader Groupe M to accelerate innovation and sustainable development in the UAE’s nuclear and sustainable energies sectors.

The agreement was signed during a ceremony attended by Nicolas Niemtchinow, Ambassador of the French Republic to the UAE; Anouar Mekkas, Nuclear and Renewable Energy Adviser at the French Ambassy in Saudi Arabia and the UAE; and, on behalf of Dubai Industrial City, Saud Abu Alshawareb, Executive Vice President of Industrial at TECOM Group PJSC. Fabtech Engineering’s Chairman, Dr. Harry Moraes, and Vice President Business Development, Fabien Jeoffroy, signed the agreement with Groupe M’s Chairman, Julien Monteiro, and Deputy CEO Pierre-Laurent Buch. Also in attendance were representatives from the French Nuclear Strategic Committee, Business France, Trouvay Cauvin, and the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in UAE.

Fabtech is active in the heavy manufacturing segment in the GCC and global markets, and will expand its nuclear sector offering through the partnership with Groupe M by offering its ‘Made in UAE’ products to both local and international customers. The companies will develop comprehensive engineering, manufacturing, and on-site products and solutions to support the nuclear and sustainable energies sector, contributing to the long-term goals of UAE Energy Strategy 2050.

Pierre-Laurent Buch, Deputy CEO at Groupe M, said: “This landmark agreement opens doors to exciting new opportunities in the Middle East and builds upon the robust ties between the UAE and France. Fabtech’s strong presence in Dubai Industrial City, coupled with its expertise, aligns with Groupe M’s growth strategy. We anticipate significant expansion in the region, particularly within the nuclear and new energy sectors, and will leverage our combined expertise to deliver high-value solutions to a broader client base.”

Fabien Jeoffroy, Vice President at Fabtech, said: “This milestone partnership with Groupe M represents a pivotal moment in our growth strategy. Dubai Industrial City’s world-class infrastructure, including an excellent road network designed for efficient transport of large-scale components, will be instrumental in our expansion journey. We are focused on innovation, particularly within the burgeoning low-carbon nuclear energy sector and aim to continue supporting environmentally responsible industrial growth through this partnership.”

Fabtech’s collaboration with Groupe M will help address demand for locally sourced solutions and expedite site support operations. As part of the agreement, Fabtech will also upgrade its existing 2.1 million sq.ft. facility at Dubai Industrial City, in line with its commitment to sustainability and innovation.

“Nurturing homegrown knowledge is crucial for creating a vibrant and sustainable industrial sector,” said Saud Abu Alshawareb, Executive Vice President of Industrial at TECOM Group PJSC, on behalf of Dubai Industrial City. “Our ecosystem is geared to support innovators and encourage collaborations such as this partnership between Fabtech and Groupe M. By fostering such strategic alliances, Dubai Industrial City’s ecosystem is contributing towards the visions of Operation 300bn, Make it in the Emirates, UAE Energy Strategy 2050, and Dubai Economic Agenda ‘D33’, reaffirming Dubai’s and the UAE’s leadership in the clean energy sector.”

The agreement builds on strong economic ties between the UAE and France, with bilateral trade exchange between the countries growing 16.8% to reach AED 29.4 billion in 2022. During the 16^th session of the UAE-France Strategic Dialogue held in May 2024, senior officials from both countries reflected on successful partnerships and industrial cooperation in areas including renewables and nuclear energy, and explored ways to further expand their cooperation in areas such as new builds and small nuclear reactors.

Fabtech Engineering was established in 2010 at Dubai Industrial City to serve heavy engineering demand in sectors including energy, utilities, food and beverage, and chemicals. Its strategic alliance with Groupe M is expected to accelerate its growth following successful collaborations with energy sector partners.

Dubai Industrial City is home to more than 1,100 local, regional, and international customers as well as 350 operational factories, including industry leaders such as A.P. Moeller-Maersk, Patchi, and Al Barakah Dates. Strategically located close to Al Maktoum International Airport, Jebel Ali Port, an Etihad Rail freight terminal, and key regional roadways, the district features an intelligent masterplan with six sector-specific zones to nurture the circular economy. 

Dubai Industrial City is part of TECOM Group’s portfolio of business districts that include Dubai Internet City, Dubai Media City, Dubai Studio City, Dubai Production City, Dubai Knowledge Park, Dubai International Academic City, Dubai Design District (d3), and Dubai Science Park.

Saeed Ahmed Lootah Charity Foundation announced its contribution of AED 10 million in support of the Fathers’ Endowment campaign, launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. The campaign honours fathers in the UAE by establishing a sustainable endowment fund to provide treatment and healthcare for the less fortunate.

The Foundation’s contribution is part of a community-wide response to the campaign, an initiative of Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI). The campaign promotes the values of honouring parents, compassion, and solidarity and helps strengthen the UAE’s position as a leader in charitable and humanitarian work, while further establishing the concept of charitable endowments.

The campaign also aims to strengthen the values of generosity and deep human solidarity, for which the UAE is known, and create a community-wide movement that supports its aims.

Noble values

His Excellency Lieutenant General Dhahi Khalfan Tamim, Deputy Chairman of Police and Public Security in Dubai and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Saeed Ahmed Lootah Charity Foundation, stated that the Fathers’ Endowment campaign, launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, exemplifies the UAE’s ongoing commitment to humanitarian and charitable efforts, reflecting the noble values of honouring parents, compassion, and social solidarity. “Sustainable charitable funds represent a pioneering model that ensures continued giving and strengthens the foundation of philanthropic work,” His Excellency noted.

Eng. Yahya Saeed Lootah, Vice Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Foundation, stated: “Supporting the Fathers’ Endowment campaign is essential to the Foundation’s commitment to sustainable good and the values of generosity and giving established by the founder in his charitable projects”.

This contribution builds upon the Saeed Ahmed Lootah Charity Foundation’s history of supporting charitable initiatives and its ongoing work to develop impactful projects that create a more sustainable future.

Donation channels

The Fathers’ Endowment campaign continues to welcome donations and contributions to the endowment fund from institutions and individuals across six main channels including the campaign’s website (Fathersfund.ae), as well as a dedicated call center via the toll-free number (800 4999). Donations are also possible via bank transfers in the UAE dirham to the campaign bank account number with Emirates Islamic Bank (IBAN: AE020340003518492868201). Donations via SMS are possible by sending the word “Father” to the following numbers (1034 to donate AED 10, 1035 to donate AED 50, 1036 to donate AED 100 and 1038 to donate AED 500) for Etisalat by e& and du users. Other possible platforms for donating to the campaign are the DubaiNow app by clicking the “Donations” tab, and Dubai’s community contributions platform Jood (Jood.ae).

Sprinklr, the unified customer experience management (Unified-CXM) platform for modern enterprises, has appointed Amjad Al Sabbah as Group Vice President for Middle East and Africa, to drive strategic growth of Sprinklr’s platform across the regional markets.

Al Sabbah brings over 20 years of experience in customer experience, business development, and driving commercial growth. Al Sabbah joined Sprinklr in 2018 and has been instrumental in establishing the company’s regional footprint and driving digital transformation initiatives in the MEA market. Prior to Sprinklr, Amjad built his foundation at global ad agencies in WPP and Omnicom and then moved to marketing and held leading positions at Sky News Arabia and INTIGRAL (Saudi Telecom’s digital arm), among others.

Sprinklr Chief Customer Officer Scott Harvey said:”Sprinklr is experiencing rapid expansion in key growth markets across the Middle East and Africa, and I believe the next few years will be a period of transformative change and automation that will redefine customer interactions. Amjad has been instrumental in driving our growth in the region, and his expertise and industry insight will be essential as we continue to unlock our full potential.”

“Sprinklr is revolutionizing how companies worldwide connect with, support, and understand their customers through digital channels. I’m excited and honored to be a  part of this transformative journey and to expand my role within the company. I look forward to continuing our success with Sprinklr’s outstanding team and build on the momentum we’ve gained in the region.” said Al Sabbah.