The Engineering Contracting Company (ECC) commemorated its 50th anniversary with a grand celebration at the Arabian Court, One&Only Royal Mirage in Dubai. The event, hosted by Chairman Hatem Farah and General Director Khodr Aldah, alongside senior executives, gathered government officials, industry leaders, financial service providers, and long-standing partners to honor ECC’s significant contributions to the UAE’s architectural and infrastructural development. Since its inception in 1975, ECC has successfully completed over 380 projects spanning residential, commercial, institutional, educational, healthcare, retail, industrial, and heritage sectors. Notable projects include Zabeel Park, Zayed University, and the world’s first 3D-printed office building. The company has expanded into eight specialized sister companies under the ECC Group, offering comprehensive construction solutions that emphasize innovation, sustainability, and quality. The celebration also featured the launch of a commemorative book, ‘A Story of Innovation, Quality and Legacy: 50 Years of ECC Contracting,’ authored by Myrna Ayad, which highlights ECC’s lasting impact on the UAE’s built environment.
分类： business
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New UAE-Oman freight trains: Abu Dhabi firm, Hafeet Rail to launch daily service
In a landmark move to enhance regional trade connectivity, Abu Dhabi’s Noatum Logistics and Hafeet Rail have inked a preliminary agreement to launch a daily freight rail service between Sohar, Oman, and Abu Dhabi, UAE. The announcement was made at the Global Rail 2025 exhibition in Abu Dhabi, signaling a major advancement in cross-border logistics infrastructure. The service will operate seven container trains weekly, each with a capacity of 276 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units), translating to an annual throughput of 193,200 TEUs. Dedicated trains will accommodate 20-foot, 40-foot, and 45-foot containers, catering to a diverse range of goods, including general cargo, manufactured products, food items, pharmaceuticals, and agrifoods. Samir Chaturvedi, CEO of Noatum Logistics, emphasized the strategic significance of the initiative, stating, ‘By linking two of the region’s most vital hubs via rail for the first time, we are offering a cost-effective, scalable, and sustainable transport solution.’ Rail transport is recognized for its predictability, efficiency, and lower carbon emissions compared to road transport, making it an ideal choice for bulk cargo over medium to long distances. This new service builds on Noatum Logistics’ existing rail shuttle between Khalifa Port and Fujairah Terminals, launched in 2024. The collaboration underscores the UAE and Oman’s commitment to fostering economic integration and sustainable development in the region.
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UAE launches Retail Sukuk, allows residents, citizens to invest in govt-backed Treasury bonds
The United Arab Emirates has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative titled ‘Retail Sukuk,’ designed to open doors for both citizens and residents to invest in government-backed Treasury Sukuk (T-Sukuk). This innovative program, launched by the UAE’s Ministry of Finance, marks a significant step in democratizing access to government financial instruments, traditionally reserved for institutional investors. The initiative will be rolled out in collaboration with national banks, with the first participating bank set to be revealed on November 3, 2025. By enabling individuals to invest in T-Sukuk through these banks, the UAE aims to foster a culture of saving, encourage personal involvement in economic growth, and provide a direct pathway for citizens to contribute to the nation’s development. This move underscores the UAE’s commitment to financial inclusivity and its vision of empowering its people to play an active role in shaping the country’s economic future.
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Galadari Brothers Motors Division wins big at Arabia CSR & Sustainability Awards
The Motors Division of Galadari Brothers has been celebrated as the winner in the Automotive Industry Category at the prestigious Arabia CSR & Sustainability Awards 2025. This accolade highlights the company’s leadership in responsible business practices and its impactful social initiatives across the UAE. The award ceremony, attended by Sheikh Salem bin Sultan bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Ras Al Khaimah Civil Aviation Department, recognized outstanding organizations for their sustainability achievements. This year marked the 18th cycle of the awards, which received 141 applications from 10 Arab countries, solidifying its reputation as the region’s most trusted platform for advancing sustainability and ESG excellence.
Since its inception in 1965, the Motors Division of Galadari Brothers has been a cornerstone of the UAE’s automotive industry, representing globally renowned brands such as Mazda, Lynk & Co, OMODA & JAECOO, Kawasaki, Triumph, and Moto Morini. Rooted in the conglomerate’s commitment to integrity and governance, the company has consistently demonstrated excellence in transparency and ethical operations. Its high standards are maintained through ISO-certified systems, customer health and safety initiatives, and robust governance practices that promote accountability.
Environmental innovation has been a key driver of Galadari’s progress. The company has invested in initiatives like solar rooftop installations, energy-efficient systems, and dry-wash water-saving technology, significantly reducing carbon emissions and water consumption. Additionally, through responsible battery recycling and sustainable waste management, Galadari has championed circular economy practices, strengthening the resilience of the UAE’s local supply chain.
Galadari Brothers has also demonstrated its commitment to community welfare and environmental stewardship. This year, the company contributed Dh10 million to the Fathers’ Endowment Campaign and planted 10,000 mangrove trees, furthering its dual focus on social impact and environmental sustainability.
Mohammed Galadari, Co-Chairman and Group CEO of Galadari Brothers, remarked, “This recognition reinforces our dedication to creating lasting value for people, planet, and performance. At Galadari, sustainability is embedded in every decision we make. From sustainable operations to social partnerships, we remain committed to leading with integrity and contributing meaningfully to the UAE’s sustainable future.”
This award underscores Galadari Brothers’ broader ESG vision, integrating sustainability across all its divisions. Through strong leadership and a focus on innovation, the company continues to drive sustainable progress and set new benchmarks for corporate excellence in the Middle East.
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Target to slash 1,800 office jobs in bid for turnaround
Target, the prominent US retail giant, has unveiled plans to eliminate 1,800 corporate positions in a bid to revitalize its business after four consecutive years of stagnant sales. The layoffs, scheduled to commence next week, represent the company’s first significant workforce reduction in a decade and will impact approximately 8% of its global corporate staff. Incoming CEO Michael Fiddelke attributed the decision to organizational inefficiencies, stating in a memo that ‘too many layers and overlapping work have slowed decisions, making it harder to bring ideas to life.’ The move comes as Target grapples with weak sales, a declining stock price, and increasing competition from rivals like Walmart. Consumer spending on non-essential items, which constitute nearly half of Target’s revenue, has dwindled amid economic pressures and backlash over the company’s diversity policies. Fiddelke, a 20-year veteran of the company, described the layoffs as a ‘necessary step in building the future of Target.’ The restructuring will see 1,000 employees laid off, while 800 vacant roles will remain unfilled. Notably, the cuts will not affect retail staff at Target’s nearly 2,000 stores nationwide. The company, historically known for its affordable clothing, groceries, and home goods, has faced challenges from macroeconomic headwinds, inventory issues, and the fallout from its decision to scale back diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Target’s share price has plummeted 30% this year, contrasting sharply with Walmart’s 18% gain. Fiddelke, who assumed the CEO role in August, has pledged to accelerate innovation, enhance product quality, and integrate more technology into the business. Further details on the restructuring are expected to be announced next Tuesday.
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Core Nutritionals and Unmatched strengthen UAE presence with Vivandi distribution partnership
Two leading U.S. sports nutrition brands, Core Nutritionals and Unmatched, are poised to make a significant impact at the Dubai Muscle Show 2025, scheduled for October 24-26 at the Dubai Exhibition Centre, Expo City. This event marks a strategic milestone for both brands as they strengthen their presence in the UAE through an exclusive distribution partnership with Vivandi Distribution, a move aimed at capitalizing on the region’s booming health and fitness industry.
Core Nutritionals, founded by natural bodybuilding champion Doug Miller and professional figure competitor Stephanie Miller, has gained global acclaim for its commitment to transparency and integrity in performance nutrition. The brand’s philosophy of ‘no shortcuts’ emphasizes scientifically validated ingredients, ensuring effective and flavorful products tailored for athletes. Its product lineup has become a staple for those seeking research-backed formulations that deliver both performance and taste.
Unmatched, created by fitness authority Kris Gethin, focuses on bridging the gap between sports performance and long-term wellness. Its advanced nutrient technology supports recovery, endurance, and cellular health, offering clean and naturally flavored products that cater to athletes and biohackers alike.
The Dubai Muscle Show, the Middle East’s premier fitness exhibition, will serve as a platform for both brands to engage directly with fitness professionals and consumers. Doug Miller highlighted the UAE’s role as a hub for athletic excellence, stating, ‘Core Nutritionals and Unmatched embody the same spirit of performance and passion that defines the country’s growing fitness community. This partnership reflects our shared commitment to quality and long-term growth in the region.’
Attendees can look forward to the CORE Nutritionals x Transformers Flavor Series, an officially licensed collaboration with Hasbro, featuring products like Energon Pre-Workout, Allspark Hydration + EAA, and Proton Protein Blend. Additionally, IFBB Pro Farouk Al Ketbi, a prominent UAE Men’s Physique athlete, will make appearances at the Vivandi Distribution booth, offering fans insights into his training and nutrition strategies.
With Vivandi Distribution spearheading brand visibility and market expansion, the Dubai Muscle Show represents a pivotal moment for Core Nutritionals and Unmatched as they solidify their foothold in the Middle East, bringing science-driven, athlete-approved formulations to one of the world’s most dynamic fitness markets.
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Amari Capital eyes UAE with global launch of advanced forex trading platform
Amari Capital has unveiled its state-of-the-art trading platform globally, marking a strategic entry into the UAE’s dynamic financial market. Powered by MetaTrader 5 (MT5), the platform offers traders seamless access to forex, indices, commodities, cryptocurrencies, and metals. Designed to cater to all experience levels, it features ultra-fast execution, tight spreads starting from 0.0 pips, and round-the-clock multilingual support. The integration with MT5 ensures advanced charting tools, customizable interfaces, and deep liquidity across desktop, web, and mobile devices. The UAE’s crypto-friendly environment, bolstered by progressive regulations and zero-tax policies, makes it an ideal hub for Amari Capital’s expansion. Varun Bafna, co-founder of Amari Capital, emphasized the UAE’s role as a leader in financial innovation, stating, ‘Our goal is to empower traders with a transparent and technologically advanced platform.’ The company’s commitment to the region was further demonstrated by its Titanium Sponsorship at the Forex Expo in Dubai, where Bafna was honored as the ‘Best Global Deal Maker.’
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Elite Group expands Soueast UAE footprint with 3rd outlet opening
Soueast UAE, a leading Chinese automotive brand celebrated for its innovation, safety, and modern design, has unveiled its third showroom in Abu Dhabi, marking a significant milestone in its regional expansion under Elite Group Holding. The new 520-square-metre facility, which opened on September 15, 2025, showcases the brand’s full range of vehicles, including the S06, S06 DM (PHEV), S07, and S09. The showroom also features customer-centric amenities such as a café, a kids’ play area, an accessories zone, and dedicated parking. As part of the launch celebrations, Soueast UAE offered a preview of its upcoming plug-in hybrid SUV, the Soueast S08DM, set for an official release in early 2026. This seven-seater PHEV SUV boasts dual-mode technology, delivering 355 horsepower and 530NM torque. To commemorate the opening, Soueast UAE is rolling out exclusive offers and giveaways across its models, emphasizing its commitment to accessibility and value. Since its UAE debut in early 2025 under Elite Group Holding, Soueast UAE has gained momentum with its “Ease Your Life” philosophy, blending practicality, advanced technology, and modern design. The Abu Dhabi showroom serves as both a retail hub and a strategic base to expand its customer-centric approach. With plans for additional showrooms across other emirates, Soueast UAE’s growth underscores Elite Group’s dedication to reshaping the regional automotive landscape. Elie Nehme, Senior General Manager of Soueast UAE, highlighted the strategic significance of the Abu Dhabi expansion, stating, ‘This showroom reinforces our commitment to customer experience, innovation, and sustainability.’ Soueast UAE’s expansion aligns with the UAE’s broader goals of fostering innovation, environmental responsibility, and mobility transformation. With plug-in hybrid models already available and new launches planned for 2026, the brand continues to lead in delivering smart, sustainable, and accessible automotive solutions.
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My Perfumes Group: The scent of success
The Middle East, particularly Dubai, has long been a beacon of luxury, opulence, and enchanting scents. In recent years, perfume brands from the region have captivated the global fragrance industry, blending traditional oriental richness with modern sophistication. Leading this transformative wave is My Perfumes Group, one of the UAE’s most prominent and influential perfume houses. With a legacy spanning three decades, the group has consistently redefined excellence in perfumery and packaging, earning a reputation for quality, creativity, and customer satisfaction. In an exclusive interview, Mustafa Firoz, Managing Director of My Perfumes Group, shared insights into the brand’s global expansion, its upcoming launches at Beautyworld Middle East 2025, and his vision for the future of the UAE fragrance industry. The success of Middle Eastern perfumes is rooted in the UAE’s visionary ecosystem, which fosters innovation and excellence. Stringent production laws ensure that ‘Made in UAE’ is synonymous with quality and trust. My Perfumes Group has capitalized on this foundation, offering fragrances that combine oriental mystique, premium ingredients, and competitive pricing. The group’s expertise spans the entire value chain, from manufacturing and global distribution to luxury retail, franchise operations, private labeling, and international licensing. Its portfolio includes renowned brands like Arabiyat, Otoori, and My Perfumes Select, alongside licensing partnerships with global icons such as FC Barcelona, Juventus, and Chupa Chups. With products sold in over 90 countries, the group is scaling production to meet rising demand, aiming to produce 30 million bottles by 2026. The year 2025 has been exceptional for My Perfumes, with six fragrances from its Arabiyat Prestige line going viral globally. Looking ahead, the group plans to unveil 15 new references at Beautyworld Middle East, including the highly anticipated Arabiyat Sugar collection. By 2030, My Perfumes Group aims to expand its global footprint, driven by innovation, quality, and customer trust.
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Canada’s lumber sector reels from Washington’s tariffs
Canada’s lumber sector is grappling with significant challenges following the imposition of new tariffs by the United States on timber and furniture imports. On October 14, Washington introduced a 10% tariff on imported timber and lumber, alongside a 25% duty on kitchen cabinets, in addition to the existing 35% levy on Canadian lumber. Experts warn that these measures could exacerbate price disparities and strain the already fragile trade relationship between the two nations. Harry Nelson, an associate professor of forestry at the University of British Columbia, described the combined 45% tariff on Canadian softwood as ‘unprecedented,’ predicting it could persist for at least six months. The tariffs are expected to widen the gap between domestic and export prices, with Canadian lumber prices likely to fall relative to the US market. Beyond the immediate impact on lumber, the broader North American economy could also suffer, with potential declines in housing starts and increased economic uncertainty. Industry groups, including the British Columbia Lumber Trade Council (BCLTC), have expressed deep disappointment, arguing that the tariffs will drive up costs, threaten jobs, and exacerbate the US housing supply crisis. The Canadian government has pledged C$1.2 billion in aid to softwood producers, but experts warn this may be insufficient to address the widespread effects across the interconnected sector. With the US threatening to raise tariffs further in January, pressure is mounting on Canada to negotiate a resolution. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney hinted at the possibility of a trade deal ahead of the upcoming APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting, but uncertainties remain.