This episode dives into the future of Ras Al Khaimah with Raki Philips, CEO of RAKTDA, as he unveils the emirate's transformation plan. From the highly anticipated Wynn Al Marjan resort to mountain-top accommodations on Jebel Jais, discover how RAK aims to triple its tourism by 2030.Philips shares exclusive insights into upcoming luxury hotel brands, innovative attractions, and the restoration of historical treasures like Jazira Al Hamra. Learn how this emerging emirate is strategically positioning itself as a diverse, world-class destination while maintaining its unique cultural heritage. Dive deep into the infrastructure developments, airport expansions, and strategic vision that's set to make RAK one of the world's most livable cities.
In this episode, Arabian Business Senior Reporter Tala Michel Issa sits down with Paolo Petrocelli, Head of Dubai Opera, for a discussion on the transformation of Dubai's cultural scene. A cultural manager with over 20 years of experience in performing arts, Petrocelli shares exclusive insights into Dubai Opera's record-breaking season, its unique approach to programming, and how it's becoming a melting pot for global cultures. From selling 250,000 tickets last year to hosting everything from classical opera to Cuban rhythms, Petrocelli discusses how Dubai Opera is reshaping the emirate's artistic identity and contributing to its vision of becoming a world capital for culture and the arts.
SPONSORED - This episode dives into the evolving landscape of food packaging and sustainability in the Gulf with Tetra Pak, Join us as we explore how one of the world's leading food packaging companies is addressing critical challenges in the F&B industry while advancing regional food security goals.As Gulf Food approaches, we also get an exclusive preview of Tetra Pak's latest technologies and their vision for the future of food packaging in the region.
Join Arabian Business Senior Reporter Tala Michel Issa and Mindvalley founder Vishen Lakhiani for a provocative conversation about why being "delusional" might be your greatest asset. From healing his eyesight through meditation to building a global empire that now trains Dubai government employees, Lakhiani shares why abandoning realism was key to his success. Plus, hear his refreshing take on authentic connection in Dubai's flashy social scene, his ambitious manifesting techniques that go beyond 'The Secret', and why the Middle East is truly leading global progress – despite what the West thinks.
In this episode, Senior Reporter Tala Michel Issa sits down with Dominique Szymura, founder of CityDrinks, to discuss the launch of its AI Sommelier, Genie, earlier this year. They'll explore the origins of this innovative idea and its impact on CityDrinks' rapid growth. The conversation also explores how Genie is revolutionising at-home drink selection, from personalised recommendations to virtual cellar management for collectors. They also tackle the controversial question of AI versus human expertise in the beverage industry, and discuss cultural sensitivity, ethical considerations, and the potential disruption of traditional sommelier and bartender roles. Additionally, they touch on CityDrinks' expansion plans and how Genie is adapting to emerging consumer trends in the UAE's unique market.
In this episode, host Tala Michel Issa, senior reporter at Arabian Business, sits down with Emma Burdett, founder of WILD (Women in Leadership Deliver). Emma shares her inspiring journey from personal adversity to creating one of the Gulf's largest women's networking communities. The conversation delves into practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, the importance of building side hustles, and strategies for monetising passion projects. Emma candidly discusses the challenges of visibility for women leaders, including her recent experience with online hate. The episode also explores the evolution of hustle culture, the power of community building, and Emma's expansion into Saudi Arabia. Listeners will gain valuable insights into overcoming self-doubt, building a powerful personal brand, and the future of female leadership in the region.
In this exclusive interview, host Tala Michel Issa sits down with Carlos Ghosn, the former Chairman of Nissan and one of the most controversial figures in the automotive industry. Breaking years of silence, Ghosn discusses the charges brought against him in Japan, his dramatic escape to Lebanon, and the alleged economic warfare that led to his downfall.Carlos Ghosn, once hailed as the saviour of Nissan and architect of the landmark Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi alliance, found himself at the centre of a global scandal in 2018 when he was arrested in Japan on charges of financial misconduct. In this candid conversation, Ghosn offers his perspective on the events that unfolded, including his unprecedented escape from Japan in 2019.This episode dives into the intricacies of corporate power struggles, the weaponisation of justice, and the cultural clashes between French and Japanese business practices. Ghosn also shares his thoughts on Lebanon's ongoing crisis and the escalating tensions with Israel.This rare and frank discussion with one of the most talked-about business leaders of our time provides listeners with an insider's view of international corporate politics and the personal cost of being at the centre of a global controversy.
In this episode, Muhammad Binghatti, Chairman and Co-founder of Binghatti, sits down with host Tala Michel Issa to discuss Dubai's thriving real estate market. Binghatti shares insights on the company's journey from its inception to becoming a leading force in branded residences. He discusses their innovative collaborations with luxury brands like Bugatti, Mercedes-Benz, and Jacob & Co., explaining how these partnerships are redefining luxury living in Dubai.Listeners will gain exclusive insights into Binghatti's strategy of creating "collectible" residences, with Binghatti revealing record-breaking sales figures and the unique approach behind projects like the Bugatti Residences. The episode also covers the company's ambitious growth plans, including expansion into new markets like Saudi Arabia and the UK.Binghatti addresses concerns about market oversupply, providing a compelling argument for Dubai's continued real estate strength. He also shares valuable entrepreneurial advice, discussing the importance of passion, persistence, and adapting to failure in achieving success.From the evolution of branded residences to the future of Dubai's property sector, this episode offers an in-depth look at one of the most dynamic real estate markets in the world, as told by one of its key players.
In this episode, host Tala Michel Issa, Senior Reporter at Arabian Business, sits down with acclaimed author and personal branding expert, Kelly Lundberg. Drawing insights from her latest book "Deseeding the Lemon," Lundberg unpacks her unique seven-slice framework for creating an authentic and impactful personal brand. From the power of consistency to the nuances of digital presence, this episode offers listeners a masterclass in professional self-presentation. Lundberg shares anecdotes from her two-decade career, including her work with high-profile clients, and provides actionable advice for introverts and extroverts alike.
In this special World Tourism day episode, host Tala Michel Issa engages in an insightful conversation with Hoor Al Khaja, Senior Vice President of International Operations at the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).Throughout the interview, they explore Dubai's current tourism landscape, its preparation for the upcoming busy tourist season, and the emirate's long-term vision for maintaining its status as a global tourism hotspot. Al Khaja also discusses recent trends, upcoming projects, and the unique "Dubai model" that has propelled the city to the forefront of the global tourism industry.
In this episode, Senior Reporter Tala Michel Issa sits down with Rob Devereux, CEO of Brookfield Properties and ICD Brookfield, to discuss Dubai's commercial real estate sector.They explore the evolution of premium office spaces, the iconic ICD Brookfield Place development, and the growing demand for high-quality workspaces in the region. Devereux shares valuable insights on market trends, expansion strategies, and the recent significant stake acquisition by Lunate and Olayan Group. The discussion also addresses concerns about market oversupply and reveals ICD Brookfield's plans to maintain its competitive edge in the coming years.
In this episode, AB Majlis brings you an exclusive interview with Shytoshi Kusama and Kaal Dhairya, the enigmatic figures behind the Shiba Inu cryptocurrency phenomenon, conducted by Arabian Business' very own Editorial Director, Matthew Amlot.For the first time ever, these anonymous leaders break their silence, sharing insights into their vision for decentralization, the power of memes in driving crypto adoption, and the future of the Shiba Inu ecosystem.Discover the human side of these masked innovators as they discuss their unique perspectives on leadership, community, and the potential for digital statehood in the evolving landscape of Web3. This rare glimpse into the minds shaping one of the most talked-about cryptocurrencies is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of finance and technology.
In this episode of AB Majlis with Reporter Nicole Abigael and Rima Semaan from Microsoft, we explore the cutting edge world of artificial intelligence (AI) and it's profound impact on the UAE's technological landscape. Join us to get unique insights into how the UAE has embraced AI as a cornerstone of innovation, growth and more.
SPONSORED - Join Senior Reporter Tala Michel Issa as she interviews Basit Saiyed, Head of Investments & Wealth Solutions at HSBC. This episode breaks down the complexities of investing for young adults and new investors. Learn why starting early is crucial, get practical tips for building long-term wealth, and discover how HSBC's WorldTrader platform can help you begin your investment journey with confidence. Whether you're a financial novice or looking to expand your knowledge, this episode offers valuable insights to make investing more accessible and less intimidating.
In this episode of AB Majlis, with reporter Nicole Abigael and J.K. Khalil Division President for East Arabia at Mastercard, we explore the transformative world of digital payments. Discover insights on financial inclusion, enhancing security measures, and pioneering future payment trends in the region and beyond.
In this episode, host Tala Michel Issa, Senior Reporter at Arabian Business, sits down with David Constable, acclaimed journalist, food writer, and editor of Gault&Millau UAE. They delve into the economics of fine dining in Dubai, exploring whether it's dead, thriving, or evolving. Constable shares his expert insights on the changing definition of fine dining, the challenges faced by high-end restaurants, and the exciting trends shaping the future of Dubai's culinary scene. From the rise of chef's tables to the increasing use of local ingredients, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the economics and innovation driving Dubai's gastronomic landscape.
On this episode we explorer the future of money with Dr. Saeeda Jaffar, discussing emerging financial technologies, evolving payment systems and the changing landscape of global transactions. Listen more for a fascinating glimpse into the financial world of tomorrow.
In this episode, Arabian Business' Senior Reporter Tala Michel Issa sits down with Careem's Managing Director Bassel Al Nahlaoui to dive into the power of partnerships and how they helped propel the "everything app" into a household name in the region and the multi-service platform as we know it today. Al Nahlaoui weighs in on key players such as Amazon Web Services and the integral role it played in helping the company scale to rapidly innovate in the ride-hailing market and add new services like Careem Box, School Rides, Dine Out, and so much more through cloud technology.Throughout the interview, he reveals insights into the company's strategic decisions, challenges faced, and the unique factors that contributed to Careem's success. Listen in to learn how this Dubai-based company leveraged the power of partnerships and it's mission to create social impact to achieve a billion-dollar valuation and become one of the region's most prominent unicorns.
Can Saudi Arabia's massive investments in attracting sports legends like Cristiano Ronaldo revive its economy beyond oil? Senior Reporter Tala Michel Issa discusses this with Jürg Kronenberg of Bain & Company on the latest AB Majlis podcast. Kronenberg analyses Saudi's Vision 2030 diversification goals through the sports lens, From football's surging popularity to opportunities in basketball, tennis, golf, and more. He weighs the economic impact of mega-events like the potential 2034 World Cup versus grassroots participation. As Saudi and the UAE race to build sports powerhouses, Kronenberg explores building sustainable sporting ecosystems for long-term growth beyond economic events.
SPONSORED - The rise of AI brings exciting potential but also raises concerns about responsible use. However, highly advanced countries like the UAE have already laid the groundwork.In this episode of AB Majlis, Arabian Business' Senior Reporter, Tala Michel Issa, sits down with Dr. Fadi Salem, Director of Research and Advisory at the Mohammed bin Rashid School of Government (MBRSG), and Ali Haidar, Corporate Counsel and UAE Lead for Corporate, External and Legal Affairs at Microsoft, to discuss AI's responsible use and what a potential ethical framework could entail in the near future.