分类: business

  • Why are some Iranians boycotting Huda Beauty?

    Why are some Iranians boycotting Huda Beauty?

    A significant consumer backlash has erupted against cosmetics giant Huda Beauty following controversial geopolitical commentary from its founder. Iranian women have launched a coordinated boycott campaign, flooding TikTok and Instagram with videos demonstrating the destruction of Huda Beauty products through burning, crushing, and disposal.

    The controversy originated when Huda Kattan shared content on her Instagram Stories featuring pro-government demonstrators in Tehran burning effigies of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former US President Donald Trump, and Reza Pahlavi, son of Iran’s deposed Shah. This action was widely interpreted as implicit support for Iran’s Islamic Republic regime, particularly during ongoing civil unrest and government crackdowns on protests.

    Kattan responded with a series of video statements attempting to clarify her position: ‘Transparently I am not pro-regime, but I also don’t know enough about the regime. I’ve heard mixed things, and I don’t think I have the right to have an opinion on what’s going on.’ The Iraqi-American entrepreneur drew parallels between Iran’s ‘internal issues’ and the catastrophic consequences of US intervention in her native Iraq, stating unequivocally her opposition to external regime change advocacy.

    The beauty mogul, who has been vocal in her support for Palestinians during the Gaza conflict, rejected comparisons between Iran’s domestic policies and Israel’s military actions, emphasizing the distinction between internal governance issues and international conflicts. Her comments have ignited intense debate across social media platforms, with prominent Iranian creators challenging her characterization of the situation and continuing calls for retailers like Sephora to remove Huda Beauty products.

    While many consumers have condemned Kattan’s statements and endorsed the boycott, others have defended her right to express caution regarding foreign intervention based on her personal experiences with US military action in the Middle East. The incident highlights the complex challenges facing global brands navigating highly charged geopolitical landscapes and the increasing consumer expectation for corporate leaders to adopt informed positions on international human rights issues.

  • Amazon’s Ramadan Sale 2026: From gaming to phones, best tech deals and upgrades

    Amazon’s Ramadan Sale 2026: From gaming to phones, best tech deals and upgrades

    Amazon.ae has officially launched its annual Ramadan Sale, offering substantial discounts across a wide spectrum of technology products until February 14, 2026. The promotional event presents significant opportunities for consumers seeking high-value upgrades on electronics, featuring instant bank discounts, flexible payment plans, and expedited delivery options, with additional benefits available for Prime subscribers.

    Notable technology deals include Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Ultra smartphone, currently available at a 35% discount (Dh3,199), delivering premium camera capabilities and advanced AI functionalities despite the impending release of newer models. For gaming enthusiasts, the PlayStation 5 Slim Digital Edition is offered at Dh1,470, representing an optimal upgrade path from previous-generation consoles.

    The audio category features exceptional value with Sony’s WF-1000XM5 earbuds at 50% reduction (Dh649) and WH-1000XM6 headphones discounted to Dh1,169 from their original Dh1,699 price point. Television offerings include Hisense’s 55-inch UHD 4K Smart TV at Dh799 (43% discount) and a 65-inch variant for Dh1,298, both tailored for regional viewing preferences.

    Complementary creator accessories such as the Boya Mini 2 Wireless Lavalier Microphone (Dh159.20) and TONEOF Magnetic Car Phone Stand (Dh43.99) provide practical solutions for content production and daily use. All listed pricing reflects Prime member exclusivity, with variations anticipated for non-subscribers.

  • Trump picks former Federal Reserve governor Kevin Warsh as next chairman

    Trump picks former Federal Reserve governor Kevin Warsh as next chairman

    In a significant move for US monetary policy leadership, former President Donald Trump has officially nominated Kevin Warsh, a former Federal Reserve governor, to assume the role of Chairman of the US central bank. The announcement was made public on Friday, January 30, 2026, through Trump’s Truth Social platform.

    Trump expressed strong confidence in his nominee, stating: ‘I have maintained a long-standing acquaintance with Kevin and possess absolute certainty that his tenure will be recorded among the most distinguished in Federal Reserve history, potentially even the most exceptional.’ The former president further emphasized Warsh’s qualifications by noting his appropriate demeanor for the position, remarking that he embodies ‘central casting’ and is a reliable choice who ‘will never let you down.’

    This nomination occurs against a backdrop of considerable investor anxiety regarding the future direction of US monetary policy. Financial markets have been closely monitoring the selection process, which analysts have characterized as a ‘no-win scenario’ for the eventual appointee due to complex economic challenges awaiting the next Fed leadership.

    Kevin Warsh, who served as a Federal Reserve governor from 2006 to 2011 during the tumultuous period of the global financial crisis, brings substantial experience in economic policymaking to the position. His previous tenure included hands-on management of the central bank’s response to the 2008 economic collapse, providing him with unique insights into crisis management and financial system stabilization.

    The nomination process now moves to congressional confirmation proceedings, where Warsh’s policy positions and approach to monetary policy will undergo thorough scrutiny from lawmakers and financial experts alike.

  • Trump nominates Kevin Warsh as next Fed chair

    Trump nominates Kevin Warsh as next Fed chair

    WASHINGTON – In a significant move for US monetary policy, President Donald Trump revealed his intention on Friday to nominate Kevin Warsh, a former Federal Reserve governor with extensive financial market experience, to lead the nation’s central bank. The announcement positions Warsh as the potential successor to current Fed Chair Janet Yellen, whose term concludes in early 2018.

    Warsh, who served as a Fed governor from 2006 to 2011 during the tumultuous period of the global financial crisis, brings substantial Wall Street expertise to the role. Prior to his previous tenure at the Federal Reserve, he worked as a special assistant to the president for economic policy and served as a key advisor on strategic planning.

    The nomination comes at a critical juncture for American monetary policy as the Federal Reserve navigates the complex process of unwinding its massive $4.5 trillion balance sheet while continuing to normalize interest rates. Warsh’s background in both governmental financial policy and private sector economics positions him uniquely to address these challenges.

    Market analysts immediately began assessing the potential implications of Warsh’s leadership style, noting his historical tendency toward more hawkish positions on monetary policy compared to the current chair. His nomination signals a potential shift in the Fed’s approach to regulatory matters and monetary normalization pace.

    The selection process involved several prominent candidates, including current Chair Yellen, who Trump praised despite ultimately selecting Warsh. The nomination now moves to the Senate for confirmation, where Warsh’s previous confirmation experience suggests a potentially smoother process than some presidential appointments have faced.

  • Helen & Sons, BBK Partnership form strategic joint venture to expand business support across UAE and GCC

    Helen & Sons, BBK Partnership form strategic joint venture to expand business support across UAE and GCC

    In a strategic move reshaping the business consultancy landscape, Helen & Sons Business Consultancy has entered into a transformative joint venture with BBK Partnership, creating an integrated platform for comprehensive corporate support services throughout the United Arab Emirates and Gulf Cooperation Council region.

    The alliance, effective immediately, merges Helen & Sons’ established business formation expertise with BBK Partnership’s financial advisory capabilities, establishing a unified service ecosystem for enterprises at every development stage. This collaboration addresses the growing demand for seamless business support from initial market entry through operational expansion and financial management.

    Helen & Sons contributes seventeen years of specialized experience in UAE regulatory compliance, offering company incorporation, licensing solutions across free zone and mainland jurisdictions, visa processing, and government liaison services. The firm has facilitated hundreds of international companies in establishing regional footholds with customized market entry strategies.

    Complementing this foundation, BBK Partnership brings over two decades of multinational financial expertise cultivated across UAE, UK, and Australian markets. Their comprehensive portfolio encompasses accounting, auditing, strategic tax planning, CFO advisory services, payroll administration, compliance frameworks, and specialized forensic accounting investigations.

    The partnership’s foundation rests upon shared commitment to long-term, trust-based client relationships and transparent service delivery. Both organizations emphasize fixed-fee pricing structures to eliminate financial uncertainty for clients seeking to navigate the region’s complex regulatory environment.

    Technological integration forms a cornerstone of the collaboration, with both firms implementing cloud-based accounting systems, real-time financial reporting tools, and consolidated documentation platforms. These digital enhancements are supported by dedicated client service teams ensuring responsive support throughout the business lifecycle.

    The joint venture particularly benefits emerging sectors including e-commerce ventures, consulting firms, fintech innovators, and professional service providers requiring simultaneous regulatory compliance and financial transparency. Current and prospective clients can access bundled service packages combining business establishment with ongoing financial management support.

    Beyond core services, the alliance plans to host educational workshops and seminars throughout the UAE, addressing critical topics including company formation best practices, financial planning methodologies, compliance requirements, and scalable growth strategies for regional expansion.

    The partnership is already operational, serving existing clients of both organizations through the newly established integrated platform at www.bbkhns.com.

  • CRYSTAL unveils a new vision for real estate in Dubai

    CRYSTAL unveils a new vision for real estate in Dubai

    DUBAI – A transformative new player has emerged in Dubai’s competitive real estate landscape with the official launch of CRYSTAL, a design-focused development firm built upon principles of cultural integration and generational legacy. The company formally announced its market entry on January 30, 2026, revealing both its distinctive brand identity and preliminary details of an upcoming flagship project in Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC).

    CRYSTAL distinguishes itself through a philosophy that merges Indian heritage with Arabic and Western influences, creating a unique architectural and design approach that prioritizes meaningful spaces over conventional development formulas. Founded on family values and long-term responsibility, the company represents what it terms a ‘second-generation mindset’ – blending respect for tradition with technological innovation and forward-thinking urban design.

    CEO Mustafa B Gandhi articulated the company’s vision: ‘Dubai has consistently demonstrated ambitious growth, but true vision requires more than repetition. CRYSTAL introduces intentionality to real estate development, where every architectural detail serves a purpose and each residential space conveys a narrative.’

    The developer’s methodology emphasizes craftsmanship, material integrity, and spatial design that enhances daily living experiences. Rather than pursuing rapid expansion or maximum scale, CRYSTAL focuses on creating environments that evolve with their inhabitants, prioritizing longevity and cultural relevance over transient market trends.

    While specific details of the JVC flagship project remain confidential, the company confirms it will embody CRYSTAL’s core principles of elevated living standards, cultural equilibrium, and architectural transparency. The development promises to challenge conventional market expectations through its fusion of design excellence and cross-cultural inspiration.

    CRYSTAL’s emergence signals a potential shift in Dubai’s property sector toward more culturally-rooted, design-conscious development approaches that value lasting impact over immediate returns.

  • Free Seminar on U.S. Investment Visa

    Free Seminar on U.S. Investment Visa

    A complimentary seminar addressing the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program will provide comprehensive guidance on navigating imminent regulatory changes and securing U.S. residency pathways. Scheduled with expert U.S. immigration attorneys, this event offers investors and families critical insights into one of America’s most direct green card acquisition methods.

    The educational session comes at a pivotal juncture as the EB-5 program faces significant modifications. Participants will receive detailed analysis of the September 30, 2026 filing deadline—a crucial timeframe offering legal protection against potential program restructuring. Legal experts will explain how meeting this deadline safeguards applicants from future regulatory shifts that might otherwise compromise their immigration status.

    Furthermore, the seminar will address the anticipated investment threshold increase scheduled for January 1, 2027. The current $800,000 minimum investment requirement is expected to rise substantially, making strategic action before this deadline financially imperative for prospective applicants.

    Attendees will gain updated information on visa processing timelines and administrative procedures affecting various nationalities. The presentation aims to provide families with comprehensive understanding of the entire process from initial application to potential citizenship acquisition, including rights and benefits for spouses and children.

    The event features interactive Q&A sessions with legal professionals specializing in U.S. investment immigration. While attendance is offered without charge, registration is required due to limited seating capacity. Interested parties can reserve positions through digital registration platforms or via telephone at +971 52 446 6095.

  • Al Habtoor Motors launches Mitsubishi Destinator 7-seater SUV in the UAE

    Al Habtoor Motors launches Mitsubishi Destinator 7-seater SUV in the UAE

    Al Habtoor Motors, the exclusive UAE distributor for Mitsubishi Motors, has officially launched the all-new Mitsubishi Destinator SUV in the Emirates. The vehicle made its inaugural appearance at a dedicated launch event held at the Al Joud Ballroom within Dubai’s Hilton Al Habtoor City.

    Positioned as a mid-size seven-seater SUV, the Destinator represents a strategic expansion within Mitsubishi’s vehicle lineup. It is engineered specifically to address the growing consumer shift in the UAE automotive market toward vehicles that seamlessly blend urban sophistication with weekend adventure capability.

    Design and Engineering
    The Destinator’s exterior is built upon a design philosophy termed “Gravitas & Dynamism,” aiming to project both a stable, commanding presence and an energetic profile. Its front fascia is dominated by the evolved “Dynamic Shield” grille, which integrates strong horizontal and vertical elements. This is complemented by an innovative honeycomb-patterned inner grille set beneath a transparent acrylic surface. The rear design draws from Mitsubishi’s heritage, featuring the “Hexaguard Horizon” concept. Rugged styling cues are emphasized by pronounced front and rear skid plates, 18-inch wheels, and distinctive T-shaped LED lighting.

    Performance and Capability
    Under the hood, the SUV is powered by a high-efficiency 1.5-litre MIVEC Turbo engine, designed to deliver responsive performance and robust torque. This is paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) tuned for smooth power delivery across diverse driving conditions. A key feature for regional adaptability is the inclusion of five selectable drive modes: NORMAL, GRAVEL, TARMAC, WET, and MUD. With a class-leading ground clearance of 214 millimeters and optimized approach, break-over, and departure angles, the Destinator is positioned as a confident performer on both city roads and varied terrain.

    Interior and Technology
    The cabin is crafted as a spacious, high-quality environment focused on family comfort and shared experiences. It is equipped with a monolithic display integrating a 12.3-inch Smartphone-link Display Audio (SDA) system and an 8-inch Digital Driver Display, offering standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. A notable first for Mitsubishi is the inclusion of a 64-colour ambient lighting system, controllable via the central screen. Premium comfort is further enhanced by a panoramic sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a bespoke console tray with wireless charging.
    For acoustic excellence, the vehicle features a Dynamic Sound Yamaha Premium audio system with an eight-speaker setup, fine-tuned by a Yamaha “sound meister” and offering four optimized sound modes. Practicality is addressed with generous storage solutions, including seatback tables, multiple USB ports (Type A and C) for all three rows, and significant cargo capacity that remains functional even with all seven seats in use.

    Market Positioning and Availability
    Ahmed Khalaf Al Habtoor, CEO of Al Habtoor Motors, stated that the Destinator’s launch responds to a clear market evolution. He highlighted increasing customer demand for mid-size SUVs that deliver advanced technology, genuine space, and everyday versatility without the compromises of larger vehicles. The Destinator is now available at Al Habtoor Motors showrooms across the UAE, offered in a palette of six monotone exterior colours including Quartz White Pearl, Blade Silver Metallic, and Lunar Blue Mica.

  • YRD demonstration zone seeks to advance concerted institutional reform and innovation

    YRD demonstration zone seeks to advance concerted institutional reform and innovation

    The Yangtze River Delta Ecological Green Integration Demonstration Zone is poised to intensify its institutional reform agenda throughout China’s 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026-2030), according to official statements from a Thursday government press conference. This strategic initiative aims to foster cross-regional collaboration through innovative policy frameworks and sustainable development practices.

    Gu Jun, Director of Shanghai Municipal Development and Reform Commission and head of the zone’s executive committee, outlined the comprehensive roadmap emphasizing low-carbon transformation of traditional industries. The strategy includes establishing green industrial clusters and implementing carbon emission budgeting systems across key sectors. The zone will prioritize substantial development in next-generation information technology and green新材料 while actively planning for artificial intelligence and future energy advancements.

    A significant milestone was achieved on January 23 with official approval of a high-tech industrial development area within the demonstration zone. This designated area will concentrate on three strategic emerging industries: digital technologies, intelligent manufacturing, and green新材料, featuring corporate headquarters and green sci-tech innovation services.

    Major infrastructure projects are scheduled for deployment during the 15th Five-Year Plan period to support industrial transformation. These include Alibaba’s Yangtze River Delta intelligent computing base, China Mobile’s 5G data center for the region, and China Telecom’s computing center in Wujiang district.

    Established in 2019 across Qingpu district (Shanghai), Wujiang district (Suzhou, Jiangsu), and Jiashan county (Zhejiang), the demonstration zone has demonstrated remarkable economic performance. During the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025), the zone achieved an annual nominal GDP growth rate of 7.3%, reaching 571.6 billion yuan ($82.3 billion) in 2025.

    The zone’s innovation ecosystem has yielded significant results, with 161 institutional innovation measures developed over five years, including 61 replicated nationwide. In 2025 alone, nine new institutional innovations were released for national adoption while 15 innovative measures were promoted across the Yangtze River Delta region.

    High-tech enterprises have multiplied dramatically, growing to 3,713 by end-2025—a 2.4-fold increase since the zone’s inception. Cross-regional integration has deepened substantially, with over half of service contracts at Xiangfu Laboratory’s Jiashan facilities serving projects in Shanghai and Jiangsu.

    Complementing these efforts, a dedicated investment fund launched in October 2025 with an initial capitalization of 500 million yuan. According to Qu Wei, Deputy Head of Shanghai Municipal Commission of Science and Technology, this fund specifically targets green-low-carbon development and technological innovation projects.

  • AES Visionary Entrepreneurs’ Forum Season 2 to inspire UAE’s businessmen

    AES Visionary Entrepreneurs’ Forum Season 2 to inspire UAE’s businessmen

    The UAE’s business community is preparing for the highly anticipated AES Visionary Entrepreneurs’ Forum Season 2, scheduled for February 6, 2026, at the Khaleej Times headquarters in Dubai. This exclusive gathering will unite entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and innovative changemakers from across the Emirates for a morning of strategic networking and knowledge sharing from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM.

    Organized by AES Edu Marketing & Events Network with Khaleej Times as exclusive media partner, the event underscores a shared commitment to strengthening the nation’s entrepreneurial infrastructure through meaningful collaboration and story amplification. The forum’s carefully designed program features curated panel discussions, recognition ceremonies, and networking sessions specifically tailored for AES community members.

    Central to the event’s agenda is the celebration of entrepreneurial success stories, leadership insights, and the growing importance of community-driven business models in today’s dynamic economic environment. The forum aims to transcend conventional business networking by fostering genuine connections that extend beyond transactional relationships.

    Leading this initiative is Ayesha Shaik, founder of AES Edu Marketing Events Networks FZE, recognized as one of the UAE’s most influential voices in education and entrepreneurship. As a serial entrepreneur, educator, and podcaster, Shaik conceived the platform to honor authentic business journeys while empowering emerging leaders.

    ‘Our vision centers on creating inclusive, value-driven environments where entrepreneurs can learn, grow, and collaborate with purpose,’ Shaik explained regarding the forum’s underlying philosophy. The AES network continues to focus on building supportive ecosystems that facilitate meaningful professional development and strategic partnership opportunities within the UAE’s vibrant business landscape.