The Advertising Business Group (ABG) has unveiled its flagship event, *Marketer of the Future Middle East (MOTF)*, set to take place on November 2025 at the TODA Theatre in Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai. This groundbreaking event aims to bring together global and regional leaders from marketing, media, technology, academia, and government to shape the future of the industry. Designed as the region’s most forward-thinking marketing gathering, MOTF will explore the trends, technologies, and transformations that will define the next decade of marketing. The event will feature a diverse lineup of thought leaders, including Trevor McFarlane, Founder & CEO of EMIR Intelligence, Stephan Loerke, CEO of the World Federation of Advertisers (WFA), and Daniel Floyed, Chief Growth Officer of The Brandtech Group, among others. Key discussions will focus on topics such as AI-driven marketing, sustainability, and the evolving role of Chief Marketing Officers (CMOs). Exclusive roundtables, such as *The Performance Imperative* and *Responsible Advertising in the Gulf*, will offer attendees unique insights into marketing effectiveness and ethical communication. Eleni Kitra, Executive Director of ABG, emphasized that MOTF is not just a conference but a catalyst for progress, empowering the industry to evolve with purpose. The event is supported by leading sponsors, including Digital Media Services (DMS), TikTok, Snapchat, and Publicis Groupe Middle East.
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Court hears case to disqualify Central African Republic’s president from December election
In Bangui, the capital of the Central African Republic (CAR), the nation’s constitutional court commenced hearings on Wednesday regarding a petition seeking to bar President Faustin Archange Touadera from contesting the upcoming December presidential election. The petition, lodged by the Observatory for Democratic Governance, a civil society organization, contends that Touadera fails to meet the constitutional prerequisites for presidential candidacy. Elysée Nguimalé, the group’s president, has raised concerns over the origin of Touadera’s name, asserting that it implies an ambiguous lineage. Nguimalé argued that the name ‘Touadera’ in the president’s native tongue translates to ‘a child abandoned by his maternal uncles,’ suggesting an unknown paternal lineage. This, he claims, violates Article 65 of the country’s Family Code, which mandates clear ancestry for presidential candidates. Territorial Administration Minister Bruno Yapandé dismissed the petition as an attempt to ‘sow confusion among the public.’ The court’s decision remains pending, with no clear timeline for a verdict. The controversy unfolds as Touadera seeks a third term, made possible by the abolition of term limits in 2023. The election is set against a backdrop of a lingering security crisis and Touadera’s efforts to secure Russian support. Meanwhile, opposition leader Anicet Georges Dologuélé faces potential statelessness after the government refused to issue him a passport. The final list of candidates for the December 28 election has yet to be released.
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China’s courier sector posts record-breaking growth during ‘Double 11’ shopping festival
China’s courier industry has set new benchmarks during the annual ‘Double 11’ shopping festival, with daily parcel handling reaching an unprecedented 777 million, as reported by the State Post Bureau of China. From October 21 to November 11, postal and courier companies across the nation managed an astonishing 13.94 billion parcels, averaging 634 million per day—a 117.8 percent increase over the usual daily volume. This remarkable achievement highlights the sector’s enhanced capability to handle the massive surge in demand during major shopping events. The bureau credited this growth to vigorous online consumption, fueled by extensive promotional efforts from e-commerce platforms. The sustained expansion of the express delivery market underscores its crucial role in supporting consumption upgrades and bolstering the real economy. These record figures not only reflect the resilience of China’s consumer market but also the efficiency of its logistics network, which continues to ensure the smooth circulation of goods and drive economic growth.
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OMODA&JAECOO marks 2,000 car sales milestone in UAE with exclusive one-day offer
OMODA&JAECOO, the globally recognized automotive brand, has reached a significant milestone by selling 2,000 vehicles in the UAE within less than a year of its official launch in February 2025. To commemorate this achievement, the brand has announced an exclusive one-day offer, dubbed the ‘Best Offer of the Year,’ available at all six of its UAE showrooms on November 16, 2025. The details of this attractive deal will only be revealed to customers who visit the showrooms on the day. This initiative aims to reward loyal customers and further strengthen the brand’s market presence in the region. The parent company of OMODA&JAECOO has also been recognized for its global success, securing the 233rd position on the 2025 Fortune Global 500 list and surpassing 5 million vehicle exports worldwide. This ‘Dual 500’ achievement highlights the company’s rapid international growth and commitment to innovation in the automotive industry. Additionally, OMODA&JAECOO has enhanced its regional visibility through a high-profile advertising campaign at Dubai International Airport, showcasing its upcoming models, the JAECOO J8 SHS and OMODA C7. This campaign has captured the attention of millions of travelers, further solidifying the brand’s reputation for bold design and advanced hybrid technology. Since its debut, OMODA&JAECOO has gained a strong foothold in the UAE market, appealing to drivers who value sophistication, innovation, and driving excitement. Shawn Xu, CEO of OMODA & JAECOO Automobile International, expressed pride in the brand’s accomplishments and gratitude for the support of UAE customers. The exclusive one-day offer is a gesture of appreciation to the brand’s growing customer base, inviting them to experience its award-winning vehicle lineup at showrooms in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Fujairah, and Ras Al Khaimah.
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‘Pakistan Idol’: Giving back a nation its voice
In a nation often overshadowed by crises, ‘Pakistan Idol’ emerges as a beacon of hope and a testament to the indomitable spirit of its people. This groundbreaking nationwide singing competition, airing every Saturday and Sunday, has become a cultural phenomenon, showcasing the dreams, aspirations, and raw talent of young Pakistanis from cities like Karachi, Lahore, Sukkur, Multan, Islamabad, and Rawalpindi. From students to mothers with infants in tow, contestants from diverse backgrounds are seizing their moment in the spotlight, reviving Pakistan’s rich musical heritage and introducing it to new audiences.
Beyond its captivating performances, ‘Pakistan Idol’ symbolizes a broader societal shift. It reaffirms the belief in meritocracy, challenging the dominance of family clout, financial privilege, and favoritism. Through a flood of cellphone votes, ordinary Pakistanis are reclaiming their voice, demonstrating that talent can indeed triumph over adversity. The show also serves as a powerful reminder of Pakistan’s unparalleled musical legacy, from the timeless ghazals of Mehdi Hassan to the genre-defying innovations of ‘Coke Studio.’ In a country often divided by language and class, music has become a unifying force, bridging gaps and fostering a sense of shared identity.
For the Pakistani diaspora, ‘Pakistan Idol’ offers a nostalgic connection to their roots, while its global streaming potential promises to introduce international audiences to the country’s burgeoning musical talent. The inclusion of female contestants, who defy societal norms by pursuing their passion for music, adds another layer of significance, paving the way for future generations of women artists.
Despite its success, the show has not been without controversy, particularly regarding the selection of its judges—Zeb Bangash, Bilal Maqsood, Fawad Khan, and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan. While their diverse expertise and constructive feedback have been widely praised, the choice has sparked debate, underscoring the challenges of pleasing a diverse audience.
Ultimately, ‘Pakistan Idol’ is more than a reality show; it is a reflection of Pakistan’s zeitgeist, brimming with ambition, resilience, and creativity. As these young artists redefine their reality to match their dreams, they are not only revitalizing Pakistan’s music scene but also inspiring a nation to believe in the power of possibility.
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UAE: Why mixed-use communities are more profitable than standalone buildings
The UAE real estate market is witnessing a significant shift as mixed-use communities emerge as the most profitable investment option, outperforming traditional standalone residential buildings. According to recent data, mixed-use developments have achieved the highest rental yields year-to-date at approximately 8%, compared to 7% for master-planned communities and 5% for standalone residential projects. This trend underscores the growing preference for integrated living spaces that combine residential, retail, and lifestyle amenities. Cherif Sleiman, Chief Revenue Officer at Property Finder, highlighted that such developments attract tenants seeking convenience, community facilities, and proximity to workplaces. The demand for smaller, affordable units like one-bedroom apartments and studios has surged, with apartments constituting 57% of buyer demand and 78% of rental searches. Mixed-use communities also command rental premiums averaging 20–25%, with steady demand throughout 2025. While standalone buildings have seen a 16% price appreciation, slightly higher than mixed-use developments at 15%, the latter offers a balanced combination of rental returns and capital growth. Experts like Ben Crompton of Crompton Partners Estate Agents emphasize that mixed-use projects provide long-term stability, higher ROI, and resilience against market downturns due to their diversified tenant mix. Jamal Lootah, President of MEFMA, noted that integrated communities benefit from shared infrastructure, reducing operational costs and ensuring stable occupancy. This shift aligns with urban strategies like Dubai’s 2040 Urban Master Plan, which promotes walkable, mixed-use neighborhoods. While standalone developments will persist, the future of UAE real estate is increasingly defined by self-sustained, amenity-rich communities.
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Sri Lanka to continue cricket tour of Pakistan despite players raising security concerns
In a decisive move, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has instructed its national team to proceed with their white-ball tour of Pakistan, despite safety concerns raised by several players following a suicide bombing in Islamabad. The attack, which occurred outside a court on Tuesday, resulted in 12 fatalities and cast a shadow over the scheduled one-day international (ODI) match in Rawalpindi. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, who also serves as the country’s interior minister, met with the Sri Lankan High Commissioner on Wednesday to reinforce security assurances. The meeting was attended by team managers and senior security officials. Naqvi personally inspected security measures at the Pindi Cricket Stadium on Tuesday afternoon. SLC issued a statement on Wednesday, emphasizing that player safety concerns are being addressed in collaboration with the PCB and relevant authorities. The board also warned that any player or staff member returning home without authorization would face a formal review, with replacements sent to ensure the tour’s continuity. Naqvi praised SLC’s decision to continue the tour, describing it as a testament to the spirit of sportsmanship. The remaining two ODIs have been rescheduled for Friday and Sunday in Rawalpindi, followed by a T20 tri-series involving Zimbabwe, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, set to begin next week.
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Pakistan tightens Islamabad security after suicide blast
In response to a devastating suicide bombing outside district court buildings in Islamabad, Pakistani authorities have significantly tightened security measures across the capital. The attack, which occurred on Tuesday, was claimed by a faction of the Pakistani Taliban, a militant group responsible for numerous violent incidents in the country. This marks the first such attack in Islamabad in nearly three years, resulting in at least 12 fatalities and 27 injuries. The district court remained closed on Wednesday, with heightened security at other court buildings and long queues forming at checkpoints. Residents expressed concerns over the origins of these attacks and their impact on foreign investment and international trust. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Zardari held urgent security talks, reaffirming their commitment to eradicating terrorism. The Taliban government in Afghanistan, accused of sheltering the Pakistani Taliban, condemned the attack and a separate incident at a military-run college near the Afghan border. The Pakistani Taliban, or Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), has been waging an insurgency primarily in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, with recent cross-border clashes resulting in significant casualties. The TTP has vowed to continue attacks until Islamic law is implemented in Pakistan, raising fears among judges, lawyers, and the general public about future security.
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Women’s 100m final on day one at LA 2028 Olympics
The Los Angeles 2028 Olympics is set to make history with a groundbreaking schedule and unprecedented gender equality initiatives. World Athletics president Lord Coe announced that the Games will commence ‘with a bang,’ featuring the women’s 100m final on the opening day and the men’s 100m final on the second day. The opening ceremony will take place on July 14, with the closing ceremony scheduled for July 30. In a historic swap, athletics will dominate the first week, while swimming will take center stage in the second week. The event will span 18 zones across the Los Angeles region and Oklahoma City, encompassing 36 sports and 51 disciplines across 49 venues. A highlight of the Games will be ‘Super Saturday’ on July 29, featuring 26 finals across 23 sports. British sprinter Dina Asher-Smith expressed her excitement, stating, ‘It’s such an exciting opportunity—celebrating the enduring legacy, strength, and global power of women’s sprinting, exactly 100 years on from the first time women competed in Olympic track and field.’ The LA28 Olympic Games will also mark a milestone in gender equality, with 50.5% of the total athlete quota allocated to women, ensuring every team sport features an equal or greater number of women’s teams compared to men’s teams. The athletics events will be held at the LA Memorial Coliseum, while the first medal event will be the women’s triathlon, and the last will be in swimming. Swimming has been moved to the second week to coincide with the opening ceremony venue, SoFi Stadium. The first official day of the Olympics will also feature the most women’s finals in a single day. Details for the Olympic football tournament and the Los Angeles Paralympics, scheduled for August 15-27, are yet to be announced.
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China, Brazil conclude seminar on bamboo as a plastic substitute
A landmark 20-day seminar on bamboo as a sustainable alternative to plastic has concluded in Beijing, marking a significant milestone in China-Brazil bilateral cooperation in the forestry and grassland sector. Organized by China’s Ministry of Commerce and the International Centre for Bamboo and Rattan under the National Forestry and Grassland Administration, the event brought together 25 Brazilian government officials and experts for an intensive exchange of knowledge and technical expertise. The seminar underscored the shared commitment of both nations to advancing green development and fostering sustainable practices. Luiz Keppe, representative of the Brazilian embassy in China, lauded the initiative as a testament to the deepening ecological collaboration between the two countries. He emphasized the dual benefits of technical exchange and strengthened mutual trust, expressing hope for future collaborations. The Bamboo as a Substitute for Plastic Initiative, launched in 2022 by the International Bamboo and Rattan Organization in partnership with the Chinese government, aligns with China’s vision of ‘lucid waters and lush mountains as invaluable assets.’ Brazil, a member of INBAR and a pilot country for related projects, is poised to leverage its abundant bamboo resources to enhance regional capacities. This seminar is part of China’s broader commitment to international training programs, with 176 initiatives conducted during the 14th Five-Year Plan period, benefiting nearly 9,000 participants worldwide. The event not only strengthens China-Brazil ties but also sets the stage for a new ‘Golden 50 Years’ of bilateral cooperation.