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Applications Open for Second Edition of Goumbook’s Regenerative Agriculture Venture Programme

by rachel 6 months ago

written by rachel

In a bid to empower and up skill researchers, students and innovators with entrepreneurial expertise to tackle challenges in food and water systems, biodiversity loss and climate change, Goumbook, a social enterprise accelerating sustainability in the MENA region, has announced that applications are now open for the second edition of the MENAT Regenerative Agriculture Venture Programme.

The Programme has been opened for its second edition in continued partnership with the Saudi Awl Bank, HSBS Bank Middle East, and the European Institute of Technology (EIT) Food and the Climate Champions Team.

The programme seeks to bridge the gap between academia, research and the business sector, by transforming research, science and nature- based solutions into accessible, scalable, and sustainable outcomes tailored to the needs of small to medium farm holders. This initiative will catalyse a regional regenerative agriculture movement, addressing the unique agricultural challenges posed by the region’s arid climate, saline soils, desert landscapes, and water scarcity.

Innovators, researchers, and students focusing on regenerative agriculture are encouraged to apply by the 6th January 2025 on the programme website. Applicants will be able to present their ideas and receive support to develop their regenerative solutions addressing pressing issues such as food security, water management, and ecosystem restoration.

The programme’s judging committee will select 20 participants for intensive boot camps and mentorship, culminating in a pitch event where three winners will receive $20,000 grants each and additional support to further develop their proof of concepts and scale their projects for environmental and social impact.

History of the Programme

“The programme’s continued support reflects a dedication to empowering regional researchers and innovators to advance impactful solutions that address both local and global environmental priorities”, said Samantha Kayruz, Goumbook’s Strategy and Sustainability Impact Director.

“By welcoming a new cohort of change-makers, we aim to further the journey begun last year, where talented researchers laid the groundwork for agricultural solutions that actively combat food, water and climate issues and improve livelihoods across our region. With the continued support of our partners, we are creating pathways for innovators to move from research concept to impact, shaping a regenerative agricultural future for the MENAT region.”

Last year’s inaugural cohort attracted 158 registrations from 18 countries, representing 19 universities and research institutes across the MENAT region. Highlighting the importance of local solutions to the MENAT region’s unique agricultural challenges, participants achieved significant milestones, transforming their research into actionable solutions that enhance climate resilience and food security.

“This initiative is part of our strategy to build global partnerships and support climate-resilient innovations”, said Sabrin Rahman, Head of Sustainability for HSBC in the Middle East, North Africa and Türkiye region. “Last year’s cohort demonstrated the potential for transformative change in regenerative agriculture, and we are excited about the potential these pioneering ideas bring to the table.”

6 months ago 0 comments

ADGM FSRA Promotes ESG-Focused Investment Vehicle Guidance Initiatives at ADSFF 2024

by rachel 6 months ago

written by rachel

Marking a significant step in reinforcing ADGM’s commitment to fostering sustainable finances and combating greenwashing in the financial sector, the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) of ADGM revealed its sustainability-related initiatives, including guidance for ESG-focused investment vehicles.

ADGM FSRA revealed these initiatives during the Abu Dhabi Sustainable Finance Forum (ADSFF), part of the Abu Dhabi Finance Week (ADFW).

Supporting the FSRA’s claim to be dedicated to aligning with global best practices, the latest guidance ensures transparency, accountability, and the integrity of ESG-focused investment products. It forms a key component of ADGM’s broader sustainable finance vision, aimed at supporting investors, issuers, and market participants in driving positive environmental, social, and governance outcomes.

“The issuance of our guidance for ESG-focused investment vehicles marks an important step in ADGM’s journey to establishing leading sustainable finance practices within its ecosystem. Through initiatives like this, we aim to strengthen the trust that the financial services sector and investors have placed in our robust regulatory framework, while also empowering stakeholders to contribute meaningfully to the global sustainability agenda.”

The FSRA has undertaken a number of initiatives to further ADGM’s leadership in sustainable finance. These include the implementation of a comprehensive Sustainable Finance regulatory framework and the release of the UAE Sustainable Finance Working Group’s Third Public Statement.

Besides guidance to address risks of greenwashing, ADGM’s robust regulatory framework for sustainable finance includes the region’s most comprehensive ESG disclosure requirements for appropriate entities within ADGM, a markets framework that includes Environmental Instruments and designations for green and climate transition funds and portfolios, and green and sustainability-linked bonds.

Through leveraging ADSFF’s platform, which facilitates dialogue by bringing together policymakers, industry leaders, and innovators to explore actionable strategies for addressing pressing environmental and social challenges, the FSRA has heightened ADGM’s collective efforts and proactive role in advancing the UAE’s sustainability agenda.

6 months ago 0 comments

Dan Company and Abdulmohsen Al-Tamimi CC Partner to Build First Luxury Resorts in Al Ahsa

by rachel 6 months ago

written by rachel

As part of its mission to enhance the tourism sector and elevate the quality of services in the hospitality sector in Saudi Arabia, Dan Company, a PIF company specialising in agritourism, ecotourism and adventure tourism, announced the signing of a contract with Abdulmohsen Al-Tamimi Contracting Company to develop Dan’s flagship destination in the Al-Ahsa Governate. This project will be constructed under its local hospitality brand ‘Tuaja Luxury Resorts’.

The signing ceremony was held at the company headquarters in Riyadh in the presence of: Mr. Saad Abdulaziz Al-Kroud, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Dan Company, and Mr. Yousef Abdul Mohsen Al-Tamimi, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Abdulmohsen Al-Tamimi Contracting Company. The contract was signed by Mr. Abdulrahman Abaalkhail, CEO of Dan Company, and Mr. Mohammed Abdul Mohsen Al-Tamimi, CEO of Abdul Mohsen Al-Tamimi Contracting Company.

“We are pleased to announce the new resort”, said Mr. Saad bin Abdulaziz Al-Kroud, “which aligns with the Kingdom’s efforts to enhance its hospitality and tourism offerings locally and internationally, and reaffirms our commitment to contribute to the development of the tourism sector by leveraging the Kingdom’s enchanting natural landscapes and showcasing it’s rich natural diversity through agri, eco, and adventure tourism.”

“It is our pleasure to partner with Abdulmohsen Al-Tamimi Contracting Company, a leading company in the Eastern province to develop our flagship project under the ‘Tuaja Luxury Resorts’ brand. This collaboration reflects our shared vision for the future and commitment to excellence. Together, we look forward to Tuaja Resorts becoming a symbol of sustainability and innovation in the Kingdom.”

The project is an initiative that highlights the Al-Ahsa region’s natural beauty, and cultural and agricultural heritage. It offers three distinctive experiences that cater to different needs: luxury and exploration at the luxury resort of Tuaja Premium Farm Resort, tranquility, and contemplation at the eco-friendly resort of Tuaja Eco Resort, and adventure and excitement at the Tuaja Adventure Resort.

“We are delighted to collaborate with Dan Company on this exceptional project, which underscores our unwavering commitment to shaping a sustainable future and actively contributing to the goals of Saudi Vision 2030”, said Mr. Yousef Abdulmohsen Al-Tamimi.

Spanning 1.8 million square metres, the resort will feature 201 accommodation units, from hotel rooms to high-end villas, some with private pools. Dan Company claims every aspect of the resort is carefully designed to reflect the unique character of Al-Ahsa, offering diverse experiences catering to guests’ needs in agri tourism, ecotourism, and Adventure tourism.

Guests will enjoy a range of facilities and services including a wide variety of dining options, a ‘farm-to-table’ experience, a spa, a central activity area, a community centre supporting local artisans, an event hall, and sports facilities.

Dan Company says it places environmental conservation and sustainability at the heart of the project and seeks LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification out of its keenness to protect the local environment. The resort blends modern sustainability practices with local traditions, with a focus on preserving the region’s rich natural heritage and culture.

The project is expected to boost the local economy, create jobs, and enhance Al-Ahsa’s status as a tourist destination. The contract underscores the shared ambition of both parties to redefine hospitality and tourism in Saudi Arabia as Dan Company’s first project in the Kingdom, leveraging the extensive experience of Abdulmohsen Al-Tamimi Contracting Company as one of the main contractors in a number of leading projects in the Kingdom such as Red Sea Global, NEOM and Qiddiya.

6 months ago 0 comments

Environment Innovation & Education Latest News

ICBA Highlights Key Issues in the Fight Against Desertification at COP16

by rachel 6 months ago

written by rachel

In a bit to seal its role as a global leader in addressing desertification, land degradation and food insecurity, the International Centre for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA) participated in COP16. Members of the organisation hosted and attended sessions, promoting topics such as stress-tolerant crops, climate resilient solutions, women and youth empowerment, and scientific innovation.

“At COP16, ICBA demonstrated the power of inclusive collaboration and science-driven solutions to combat land degradation,” said Dr. Tarifa Alzaabi, Director General of ICBA. “Our focus on empowering women, advancing biosaline agriculture, and building capacity underscores our commitment to creating sustainable and resilient communities. Our contributions to soil health, stress-tolerant crops, and regenerative agriculture reflect ICBA’s role in delivering scalable solutions tailored to arid and saline environments.”

Strategic Dialogues and Innovations

During the Food and Agricultural Systems Day, Dr. Alzaabi participated in the “NENA High-Level Breakfast Dialogue on Investment for Planet and People,” organised by the UNCCD Secretariat and key regional stakeholders. Dr. Tarifa emphasised the need for climate-resilient solutions, capacity development, and nature-based approaches to drive sustainable development and ecosystem restoration in the Near East and North Africa (NENA) region.

In a session organized by ICRISAT and the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), titled “Unlocking Opportunities of Dryland Cereal Food Systems,” Dr. Alzaabi outlined ICBA’s advancements in stress-tolerant crops such as millet and sorghum, efficient water use, and biosaline agriculture. She also highlighted ICBA’s flagship programs, including AWLA and ICBA-YES, which empower women and youth to lead innovation and build resilience in dryland agriculture.

At the UAE Pavilion, Dr. Alzaabi, alongside Ms. Nour El Jundi, Project Development Specialist at ICBA, led a Fireside Chat titled “Biosaline Accelerators for Land Restoration”. Aiming to explore innovative biosaline agriculture practices and their transformative potential in sustainable land restoration and combating land degradation, key discussions revolved around ICBA’s solutions, including the use of salt-tolerant crops and innovative technologies to restore degraded lands and ensure long-term agricultural sustainability in arid regions.

Empowering Communities Through Science and Collaboration

Dr. Charbel Tarraf, Chief Operations and Development at ICBA, contributed to the session ‘Innovative Multi-faceted Approaches to Land Restoration’, organised by the UNCCD and ICBA. He highlighted biosaline agriculture as a transformative tool for rehabilitating degraded lands, and underscored the critical role of women in advancing sustainable land management. The discussion showcased ICBA’s integrative methodologies, combining scientific innovation, technological advancements, and community-based practices.

During the Agri-Food Systems Day, Ms. Nour El Jundi represented ICBA in the session “Regenerative Agriculture as a Solution to Desertification,” organised by SOMA MATER. She showcased ICBA’s expertise in regenerative agricultural practices, detailing approaches that restore degraded lands, enhance soil health, and promote sustainable food systems in arid regions.

ICBA hosted the session “Soil Health to Combat Land Desertification” at the UAE Pavilion, featuring contributions from Dr. Tarraf, Mrs. Ryma Affani, Curator of the Emirates Soil Museum, and Dr. Ahmed El-Naggar, Soil Management Scientist. The session highlighted biosaline techniques for soil restoration and presented the Emirates Soil Museum as a hub for capacity development and knowledge sharing. Advanced research on soil amendments and microbial solutions demonstrated innovative methods for enhancing land resilience.

Stress-tolerant Seeds Showcase

ICBA was featured as part of the UAE Pavilion at COP16, highlighting its role as a centre of excellence for smart resilience and water management technologies. The pavilion showcased ICBA’s innovative approaches to tackling climate challenges, including its portfolio of stress-tolerant seeds, which include UAE-native varieties designed for saline and arid environments.

These seeds enhance biodiversity, combat soil erosion, and improve agricultural resilience. Additionally, ICBA presented land rehabilitation techniques, such as the use of Prosopis juliflora, demonstrating practical solutions for addressing desertification and promoting sustainable agriculture.

6 months ago 0 comments

Environment Latest News

UAE Concludes COP16 Participation, Reinforcing the Role of International Cooperation in Combating Desertification

by rachel 6 months ago

written by rachel

The United Arab Emirates concluded its participation in the 16th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP16) to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) by emphasising the importance of strengthening international cooperation to develop practical solutions for halting desertification and addressing drought. The UAE also underlined the importance of the active involvement of all community groups, with a focus on enhancing the role of women in global sustainable land management.

COP16 was held in Riyadh from December 2 to 13 under the theme “Our Land. Our Future”. The conference aimed to explore strategies for transforming land degradation into renewal. The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) serves as the global advocate for bringing together governments, businesses, and civil society to address challenges and collaboratively shape a sustainable future for land.

“COP16 on combating desertification marked a new chapter in the UAE’s achievements to address the global drought crisis and halting land degradation”, said Her Excellency Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, who led the UAE delegation at the conference.

“Through effective contributions to global efforts, the UAE has strengthened sustainable agriculture and food systems, and leveraged innovation to develop solutions to the global water crisis, particularly through the ‘Mohammed bin Zayed Water Initiative’ and other efforts.”

“The participation of the Emirati work teams, representing relevant authorities in the country, exemplified our collaboration and unity in pursuing shared goals. Our goals include addressing national challenges, expanding innovation-driven agriculture and food systems, promoting sustainable water management, and maximising the benefits derived from natural resources while preventing waste. Additionally, our teams played an active role in rallying global efforts in this regard.”

Interactive Engagements

During his participation in a session titled ‘Strengthening the Environmental Dimension of Food Systems Amid a Polycrisis in the Arab Region’, His Excellency Mohammed Saeed Al Nuaimi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, emphasised that water scarcity is a significant challenge for the Arab region. As one of the most arid places in the world, the Arab region faces immense pressure on its limited freshwater resources especially for agriculture.

“We must invest in climate-smart land solutions to mitigate the impacts of climate change and enhance climate resilience across the Arab region”, said HE Al Nuaimi. “The success of these efforts hinges on cooperation, as the active participation and coordination among the various stakeholders is urgently needed to achieve the shared goals of our Arab nations.”

His Excellency said that tackling the challenges of climate change, water scarcity, land degradation, and desertification calls for concerted regional efforts. These include leveraging advanced technologies, strengthening resource management, and enhancing international cooperation.

His Excellency also highlighted the ‘Plant the Emirates’ National Programme, which aims to empower local communities in achieving sustainable food security in the UAE by encouraging their participation in agricultural practices. HE also referred to the ‘National Agriculture Centre’, which aims to advance research and innovation in agricultural technologies.

Hiba Obaid Al Shehhi, Acting Assistant Undersecretary for Biodiversity and Marine Life Sector at MOCCAE, participated in a session titled ‘High Level Interactive Dialogue of the Gender Caucus: HerLand: Women’s leadership on sustainable land management’. She emphasised the UAE’s commitment to gender equality as part of the nation’s efforts to address the impact of climate change, particularly in sustainable land management.

““The climate crisis does not affect one gender more than the other; both women and men are significantly impacted by climate change”, said Hiba Obaid Al Shehhi. “This presents a unique opportunity to strengthen efforts to combat desertification, land degradation, and drought, while enhancing the leadership role of women and girls by leveraging their expertise, knowledge, and skills.”

“The presence of women in this field globally remains modest, which necessitates the formulation of more effective and inclusive policies and projects. Women constitute nearly 50 per cent of the agricultural workforce worldwide; however, they own less than one-fifth of the total land globally.”

Al Shehhi highlighted the significant role of the UAE in empowering women in agriculture through efforts that included a project to enhance the capabilities of refugees in Uganda, funded by the Sheikha Fatima Fund for Refugee Women, in collaboration with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.

“The call to enhance the role of women in achieving climate resilience and land restoration aligns with our national strategies. Women play a pivotal role in shaping policies and driving innovative solutions to combat land degradation and desertification”, she added.

Hiba Al Shehhi also participated in a session titled ‘Multilateral Environmental Agreements Synergies for Strengthened Environmental Governance: Insights from the Bern III Conference’, where she emphasised that climate change, biodiversity loss, and land degradation represent a link between interconnected environmental crises, reinforcing how addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive response.

Al Shehhi described the launch of the Mangrove Alliance for Climate (MAC) by the UAE in collaboration with the Republic of Indonesia, which aims to globally expand the planting of mangrove trees, which act as natural carbon sinks, and serve as a vital link in preserving the marine environment and biodiversity. The alliance currently includes 45 countries. She also shed light on the groundbreaking ceremony of the Mohamed bin Zayed – Joko Widodo International Mangrove Research Centre in Indonesia, which will lead research and innovation efforts to expand mangrove forests globally.

Furthermore, Al Shehhi emphasised the importance of enhancing international cooperation by aligning actions with global frameworks such as the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, the Convention on Biological Diversity, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to ensure coherent strategies – “Policy tools at national level can help enhance cooperation among diverse sectors”, she said.

6 months ago 0 comments

ADGM FSRA Releases a Series of Regulatory Advancements at ADFW

by rachel 7 months ago

written by rachel

As part of Abu Dhabi Finance Week (ADFW) 2024, ADGM, the international financial centre of Abu Dhabi and its Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) showcased a series of recent regulatory advancements.

The developments include a comprehensive framework for the issuance of Fiat-Referenced Tokens (FRTs) within ADGM, broadening the range of digital assets available in a regulated environment, the release of detailed guidance addressing IT Risk Management and a consultation paper on proposed updates to the Virtual Asset framework, further strengthening ADGM’s position as a leading hub for digital innovation and financial regulation.

The regulatory framework introduced for FRTs supports their issuance, expanding the suite of digital assets offered within a secure and regulated environment. Developed following extensive industry consultations, the framework incorporates key components such as stringent reserve asset requirements, governance measures, transparency in disclosures, prudential safeguards, and clear redemption rights for token holders. By designating FRT issuance as a distinct regulated activity, the framework ensures high standards must be met by those issuing FRTs, reflecting global best practices.

The FSRA’s guidance on IT risk management enhances its regulatory approach by providing insights into what it considers to be critical aspects of sound and robust risk management in that area.

It also highlights the importance of IT risk in business operations, introducing measures such as comprehensive, rules on standardised incident reporting, and the introduction of RegTech solutions. These measures aim to further enhance IT resilience and ensure adaptability to evolving technological and regulatory needs.

“ADGM’s advancement as a progressive international financial centre is underpinned by the various and comprehensive initiatives it takes on the regulatory front”, said Emmanuel Givanakis, CEO of the FSRA of ADGM.

“As a forward-thinking jurisdiction, every new regulatory framework and amendment introduced reflects ADGM’s and the FSRA’s commitment to staying ahead of the curve. We continuously assess and address the evolving risks as well as the needs of the digital asset ecosystem, as we remain committed to fostering responsible innovation within the financial landscape.”

A consultation paper, proposing amendments to the FSRA’s regulatory framework for Virtual Assets (VA) was also announced at ADFW. These changes aim to refine processes for accepting VA within ADGM, further refine capital requirements and fees, and address emerging business models like staking.

The FSRA is seeking stakeholder feedback to ensure the framework aligns with industry developments while maintaining robust regulatory standards. The published paper also invites input on criteria for accepting non-ADGM-issued Fiat-Referenced Tokens and proposes expanding investment opportunities for Venture Capital Funds.

The FSRA, through its regulatory approach, has aimed to balance innovation with strong regulatory oversight. The announcements at Fintech Abu Dhabi during ADFW were well received by the delegates which included financial leaders, experts and executives, investors, entrepreneurs, and start-ups from the global and regional financial services industry.

7 months ago 0 comments

Energy Environment Latest News

Wood Secures Contract for Decarbonisation Project in the Middle East

by rachel 7 months ago

written by rachel

In a bid to improve efficiency and reduce emissions on a process manufacturing plant, Wood, a global leader in consulting and engineering, has secured a contract worth approximately $17 million for a decarbonisation project from a leading petrochemical company in the Middle East.

Under this 18-month contract, Wood is providing consultancy and engineering services, process technology and specialist equipment to enhance operations by adding a new heat recovery unit to an existing process plant. Wood’s solution is estimated to drive a reduction of around 110 kilo-tonnes per annum of CO2 emissions, the equivalent of removing 22,000 cars from the road.

As part of the scope, Wood delivered a series of innovative feasibility studies and an early engineering package, designing a complex system to effectively collect the high-temperature flue gas and deliver it to a waste heat recovery transfer system to generate medium-pressure steam.

“Optimising process technologies and equipment can deliver quick and immediate wins, offering a cost-effective way to significantly reduce emissions in industrial facilities”, said Daniel Carter, President of Technical Consulting at Wood.

“With the Middle East continuing to play a leading role in driving global decarbonisation, we’re focused on identifying the most promising and practical decarbonisation pathways for our clients to achieve their carbon reduction goals without compromising their efficiencies or cost drivers.”

Wood has a long track record of supporting clients through a full range of propriety process technologies and products, including complex heater systems, having installed more than 3,000 fired heaters and 450 heat recovery units worldwide.

7 months ago 0 comments

Innovation & Education Latest News Social

Huawei Launches Product Range to Redefine Foldable, Audio and Design Excellence

by rachel 7 months ago

written by rachel

In a bid to advance foldable and high-quality technology, Huawei Customer Business Group (CBG) unveiled several products as part of the ‘Unfold the Classic’ HUAWEI Flagship product Launch held in Dubai on the 12th December. Among this new range is the new foldable smartphone, HUAWEI Mate X6, which is expected to redefine the foldable experience with its innovative design, durability and advanced features.

In addition to the Mate X6, Huawei introduced a lineup of new devices, including the HUAWEI nova 13 series, HUAWEI FreeBuds Pro 4, HUAWEI FreeClip in rose gold, and the HUAWEI MatePad 11.5. These products highlight a new era of innovation for the Huawei, and reinforce the company’s commitment to continuous advancement and delivering flagship experiences for users across the MENA region.

Features of the HUAWEI Mate X6

HUAWEI Mate X6 is a foldable smartphone that’s extremely thin and light while also being extremely durable. It comes with the 2nd Generation Kunlun Glass, which protects the exterior screen, while a carbon fibre inner screen plate adds strength to the interior display. The phone features an advanced multi-dimensional hinge and a robust aviation-grade aluminium middle frame. The Kunlun Glass offers 25 times better drop resistance.

The HUAWEI Mate X6’s camera system is one of its standout features, designed to capture true-to-life colours. The 50MP Ultra Aperture Camera is equipped with a ten-size adjustable physical aperture, ranging from F1.0 to F4.0, allowing users to control depth of field and light intake with precision. The camera also incorporates the Ultra Chroma technology, which uses 1.50 million spectral channels to boost colour accuracy by 120 per cent. Equipped with an OLED exterior and a large internal OLED display, the Mate X6 supports a 120 Hz adaptive refresh rate.

The HUAWEI Mate X6 is ” A breakthrough technology from the inside out, bringing consumers a truly innovative foldable screen experience”, said Richard Yu, Chairman of Huawei Consumer Business Group.

he HUAWEI Mate X6 will be available in UAE for preorder starting from the 12th December 2024, at a price of AED 7199 through Huawei’s online platforms as well as certified retailers. It will be available in three colours: Nebula Gray, Nebula Red, and Black. Preorder customers will benefit from add-ons worth AED 2698.

Features of the HUAWEI FreeBuds Pro 4

The HUAWEI FreeBuds Pro 4, the first-ever HUAWEI SOUND earbuds, set new benchmarks for wireless audio. Featuring an Ultra-Hearing Dual Driver system, these earbuds deliver a rich and dynamic listening experience across a wide frequency spectrum, from booming bass to sparkling treble. Designed for exceptional clarity during calls, the FreeBuds Pro 4 feature advanced AI noise cancellation and a high-sensitivity bone-conducting microphone.

The earbuds can intelligently distinguish between human voices and environmental noise, isolating your voice while filtering out distractions. Whether you’re at a concert or walking through a busy street, your calls remain uninterrupted, with crystal-clear sound.

HUAWEI FreeBuds Pro 4 will be available in UAE from the 9th January 2025, at a price of AED 749 through Huawei’s online platforms as well as select retailers.

Features of the HUAWEI nova 13 Series

HUAWEI nova 13 Series, introduces the new Dynamic Plaid Texture Design, multi-focal portrait capabilities, and AI-driven innovations. The series debuts in the striking new Loden Green colourway, alongside classic Black and White options.

The HUAWEI nova 13 Series redefines front-camera photography with its 60 MP Ultra-Wide Front Camera and innovative features like the AI Best Expression. The ultra-wide angle allows users to effortlessly capture group selfies with everyone in the frame and showcase breathtaking scenery without the need for a selfie stick. The AI Best Expression feature ensures every group photo is flawless by selecting the best expressions from burst shots. The 5X Selfie Zoom expands the creative possibilities enabling close-up portraits, and delivering detailed and cinematic-quality selfies. With the new 100 W HUAWEI SuperCharge Turbo, the HUAWEI nova 13 Series can charge to 50% in just 10 minutes.

HUAWEI nova 13 Series will be available in UAE before end of January 2025, at a starting price of AED 1699 through Huawei’s online platforms as well as select retailers.

Features of the HUAWEI MatePad 11.5

The HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 features an eye-soothing PaperMatte Display and productivity-boosting upgrades, including an enhanced HUAWEI Notes app. Designed with students and light-duty office workers in mind, this tablet empowers users to embrace a paperless experience while enhancing efficiency, whether at school, home, or on the go.

The HUAWEI MatePad 11.3 will be available in UAE in January 2025, at a price of AED 1299 through Huawei’s online platforms as well as certified retailers. It will be available in Isle Blue and Space Grey.

Features of the HUAWEI FreeClip – now in Rose Gold

The HUAWEI FreeClip combines cutting-edge audio technology with sleek, fashion-forward aesthetics. Now available in a captivating Rose Gold finish, the latest iteration of the HUAWEI FreeClip introduces a soft pink hue with subtle golden undertones. The FreeClip incorporates new features like the Dynamic Bass Algorithm, Head Motion Controls, and Drop Reminders. The Drop Reminders feature provides a gentle alert in the remaining earbud if one slips out during use, accompanied by a notification on your phone.

HUAWEI FreeClip in Rose Gold is available in the UAE, at a price of AED 699 through Huawei’s online platforms as well as select retailers. Preorder customers will get AED 100 off.

7 months ago 0 comments

Innovation & Education Latest News

Abu Dhabi Launches Hub71+ AI to Support Start-Ups Advancing AI Innovation

by rachel 7 months ago

written by rachel

In an effort to support start-ups harnessing cross-sector AI innovation, Hub71, Abu Dhabi’s global tech ecosystem, has launched Hub71+ AI.

The platform was launched during Abu Dhabi Finance Week (ADFW), providing start-ups with the necessary infrastructure and resources to thrive in a rapidly evolving global economy. The Initiative underscore’s Abu Dhabi’s commitment to advancing AI across priority sectors , aligning with the UAE’s capital’s broader economic vision.

Between 2021 and 2023, the number of AI companies in Abu Dhabi increased at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 67 per cent. Furthermore, studies indicate that, on average, one AI company was established every two days in Abu Dhabi during the first half of 2024. Hub71+ AI is set to accelerate this momentum by supporting startups and developing the infrastructure required to drive AI adoption across various sectors.

AI71 joins as an anchor partner of Hub71+ AI and will offer compute power credits for their API Hub, which provides pay-as-you-go access to the globally ranked Falcon series of Large Language Models and other tools. AI71 will also provide access to their team of AI researchers.

In addition, Core42 joins Hub71+ AI as an anchor partner, empowering regional startups with preferential access to Core42’s advanced products and solutions. Core42 will offer startups cloud credits that can leverage the deployments of next-generation digital infrastructure for AI including current deployments of training and inference capacity in the UAE, USA, and a growing global footprint.

Additionally, Core42’s Sovereign Public Cloud offering which leverages Microsoft Azure, can be utilised for startups that are in need to offer a sovereign implementation for regulated industries and the public sector. Core42 will also support startups in accessing relevant facets of the broader G42 ecosystem including Presight, M42, AIQ, CPX, Space42, and others where relevant.

Hub71+ AI is supported by a network of leading partners, including Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google for Startups, Nvidia, Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE), Mohamed Bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI), and 42 Abu Dhabi. Together, these strategic partners aim to support the specialist ecosystem and advance the growth of AI startups, contributing to Abu Dhabi’s economic transformation, underpinned by advanced technology.

Through these partnerships, startups will gain access to technical and industry expertise, digital infrastructure, strategic market entry pathways, and hands-on regulatory guidance. Hub71’s collaborations with global technology leaders will further benefit startups, providing opportunities to pilot new technologies in real-world settings. Additionally, startups will be exposed to a network of investors and corporate partners that can help accelerate their growth from Abu Dhabi. These partnerships will enable Hub71+ AI startups to leverage digital infrastructure and cloud credits to strengthen the AI ecosystem and expand their business from Abu Dhabi to the world.

“AI is transforming industries and rapidly shaping the future of our world”, said Ahmad Ali Alwan, Chief Executive Officer of Hub71. “Abu Dhabi is not just keeping pace but setting the standard as a global leader in advancing AI for meaningful impact.”

“Hub71+AI is our commitment to bold, pioneering founders, providing startups with unparalleled access to resources, mentorship, and collaboration opportunities with tech giants and national champions. We aim to scale and drive AI innovation that resonates globally from Abu Dhabi’s dynamic tech ecosystem.”

7 months ago 0 comments

Food & Water Latest News

House of Pops and Emirates Bustanica Collaborate on Sustainable Sweet Treats

by rachel 7 months ago

written by rachel

In a bid to advance the popularity of sustainable, yet artistic and aesthetically pleasing snacks, House of Pops and Emirates Bustanica have announced a collaboration. This partnership merges the innovative strengths of both brands, culminating in two new collections – the Blooming Collection and the Vitality Collection.

This collaboration highlights House of Pops’ commitment to sustainability, wellness and craftsmanship, while Emirate Bustanica’s premium ingredients, grown using cutting-edge vertical farming techniques, bring quality and freshness to the partnership.

“Leveraging our organisation’s massive capabilities to collaborate and innovate with home-grown businesses and entrepreneurs is one of the more exciting parts of our agenda”, said Shahreyar Nawabi, CEO of Emirates Flight Catering.

“This partnership is a celebration of shared values – a commitment to sustainability, a passion for delivering unparalleled quality, and a dedication to showcasing the best innovations born right here in Dubai. The use of our edible flowers within the ice lollies is a brilliant blend of creativity and innovation – art, taste and aesthetics all delivered using the freshest, locally grown inputs. I can’t wait for everyone to experience the magic of this collaboration and all that it will produce.”

The collaboration also underscores House of Pops’ ongoing commitment to innovation. Known for its focus on natural, plant-based ingredients, House of Pops’ new range prioritises flavour but also champions environmental stewardship.

The Blooming Collection features three flavours that combine fruit-forward tastes with edible flowers: Orange Passion Bloom, Rosey Lemonade and Citrus Sunshine.

The Vitality Collection offers a nutritious twist with two vegetable-fruit fusions designed to boost overall wellbeing: Lemon Apple Boost, a blend of lemon, apple, spinach, kale, and ginger; and Beet It, a mix of beetroot and fruits. These “detox pops” reflect a shared commitment to health and sustainability.

“We are beyond thrilled to see this partnership come to life, and with a company like Emirates Bustanica that provides the freshest premium ingredients from the world’s largest vertical farm here in the UAE”, said Mazen Kanaan, Co-Founder of House of Pops. “It’s a wonderful opportunity for us at House of Pops, and a great sign that when we remain committed to our values of sustainability, wellness, and purity, the business will continue to flourish with partnerships like this.”

The new collections will be available in the first phase at House of Pops outlets and online, with plans for broader distribution across more touch-points in the near future.

7 months ago 0 comments

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