分类： business

In a transformative shift, UAE banks are leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics to foster long-term customer relationships, moving beyond transactional interactions to support customers through key life milestones. This strategic pivot was highlighted by Luis Rodriguez, Product Evangelist at Crif-Strands, during the 4th Banking Innovation and Technology Summit 2025 in Dubai. Rodriguez emphasized that modern customers seek more than financial products; they desire a trusted partner to guide them through significant decisions such as saving, career advancements, or purchasing a home. He noted that while digital channels have streamlined banking processes, they have also diminished the human element. To bridge this gap, banks are now analyzing customer behavior, preferences, and lifestyle patterns to offer personalized services. Rodriguez underscored the importance of engaging customers early in their financial journeys, stating that loyalty is built by being present from the outset, not just at the point of sale. The summit, attended by senior leaders from banks, fintech firms, and regulatory bodies, served as a platform to discuss how technology is reshaping the UAE’s financial landscape. Rodriguez also highlighted the growing importance of transparency in data usage, particularly with the rise of open banking. He stressed that customers must understand the value of their data and how it is utilized to build trust. Crif-Strands is aiding banks in optimizing lending processes and developing customer-centric digital operations, enabling them to cater to individuals with limited credit history and the region’s mass affluent segment. The summit reinforced the UAE’s position as a leading financial and technology hub, with industry leaders collaborating to drive the next phase of digital growth.

In a landmark development for Pakistan’s maritime industry, global energy trading giant Vitol and Pakistan’s largest oil refiner, Cnergyico, have successfully executed the country’s largest single delivery of very low sulphur fuel oil (VLSFO) for ship refuelling. This significant shipment, announced in a statement late Monday, marks a pivotal step in enhancing Pakistan’s role in the global shipping sector. The VLSFO, compliant with International Maritime Organization (IMO) regulations, was produced by Cnergyico following its import of U.S. crude oil cargoes in August and September. The fuel was delivered to a vessel owned by shipping major MSC at Port Qasim using the Singapore-flagged bunker barge Marine Ista, capable of supplying 6,800 metric tons of marine fuel in a single delivery. Notably, this delivery was the first to load fuel directly from the Karachi Port Trust’s Oil Pier, bypassing traditional truck deliveries. The initiative not only enables large vessels refuelling in Pakistan to undertake longer east-to-west routes without additional stops but also strengthens Pakistan’s local supply of environmentally compliant marine fuel. Vitol and Cnergyico plan to continue this collaboration, with Vitol expanding its bunker locations to include Karachi Port, Port Qasim, and Karachi Anchorage. Aumar Abbassciy, director at Cnergyico Pk Limited, emphasized that this effort underscores Pakistan’s growing capacity to provide sustainable fuel solutions to the global shipping industry.

Since 2024, the Beijing Bankruptcy Tribunal has successfully rescued 27 small and medium-sized high-tech enterprises, safeguarding over 2,000 jobs and injecting 2.4 billion yuan ($337 million) in investments. These companies, operating in cutting-edge sectors such as artificial intelligence, big data, intelligent healthcare, digital culture, and computing power infrastructure, faced operational challenges due to rapid market changes and short technology lifecycles. The tribunal, under the Beijing No. 1 Intermediate People’s Court, employed judicial measures like restructuring and settlements to resolve over 10 billion yuan in debts. Vice-President Li Zhongyong highlighted the tribunal’s streamlined case-handling procedures and tailored debt settlement plans, which ensured the continuity of technological research during restructuring. The tribunal also relaxed legal standards for case reviews, enabling swift bankruptcy protection for distressed firms. Moving forward, the tribunal plans to refine rules for assisting high-tech enterprises and enhance legal talent education to professionalize case handling.

Dubai has emerged as a magnet for global entrepreneurs, with French founders, professionals, and investors increasingly choosing the UAE as their base. Over 40,000 French citizens now reside in Dubai, forming one of the most robust Francophone business networks outside Europe and significantly contributing to the city’s economic vitality. This trend is driven not only by lifestyle and tax advantages but also by Dubai’s efficient business ecosystem, characterized by swift decision-making, transparent administrative processes, and supportive frameworks for ambitious ventures. The city’s strategic connectivity to Europe, Africa, and Asia further enhances its appeal. French entrepreneurship in Dubai has diversified beyond hospitality and retail to encompass e-commerce, consulting, real estate, logistics, and digital platforms. Entrepreneurs are drawn to Dubai’s streamlined business setup, manageable banking processes, and straightforward corporate tax rules. However, navigating the complexities of free zones, visas, and compliance can be daunting. Enter the Clemenceau Group, founded by Nouria Mamèche in 2018, which has become a pivotal advisor for French-speaking entrepreneurs. The group supports over 500 companies, offering expertise in business formation, visas, banking, and compliance. Its unique strength lies in its deep understanding of both the UAE’s administrative systems and cultural nuances, facilitated by its multilingual team. The Clemenceau Group’s step-by-step guidance helps entrepreneurs avoid costly mistakes and integrate smoothly into Dubai’s business environment. As the French community in Dubai matures, it has developed robust networks and collaborations, creating a structured ecosystem for sustained growth. With clearer regulations, stronger community ties, and a maturing advisory landscape, Dubai is now a natural extension of France’s global business footprint, offering speed, access, and stability for French entrepreneurs.