Dubai is solidifying its position as a leading global hub for digital innovation, with the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy supporting the establishment and expansion of 582 digital startups in the first nine months of 2025. This remarkable growth underscores the emirate’s rising influence in technology entrepreneurship and its strategic efforts to attract the next generation of global digital pioneers. Notably, 70% of these startups are international companies, reflecting Dubai’s growing appeal as a gateway to Middle Eastern, African, and Asian markets. Artificial intelligence (AI) leads the charge, accounting for 21% of supported firms, while HealthTech, Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), and FinTech collectively represent another 17%. This momentum aligns with Dubai’s D33 Economic Agenda, which aims to double the emirate’s economy by 2033 and position it among the world’s top three cities for business and innovation. Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, emphasized Dubai’s commitment to fostering a dynamic business environment that enables digital companies to scale globally. Nearly half of the supported firms benefited from establishment assistance, accelerator programs, and incubator services, while 32% utilized the chamber’s “Business in Dubai” platform, a one-stop service model connecting startups with investors and regulatory support. Beyond direct assistance, the chamber has invested in knowledge creation and global outreach, releasing four research reports and organizing 15 sector-specific events and 16 international roadshows across 17 cities in 10 countries. These efforts have positioned Dubai as a “launchpad city” for global startups, bridging East and West with its policy support, funding access, and fast-moving regulatory environment. The UAE’s progressive visa reforms and digital infrastructure have further attracted record levels of talent, with digital startups now contributing over 11% of the UAE’s non-oil GDP. As 2025 progresses, Dubai’s innovation engine shows no signs of slowing, redefining what it means to build, scale, and succeed on a global stage.
标签： Africa
非洲
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Romain Gerardin-Fresse receives the “Top 50 UAE Personality” distinction
The Khatoon Entrepreneurs Summit & Awards 2025, held in the UAE, celebrated visionary leaders who are reshaping innovation and leadership across the Emirates. Among the notable honorees was Romain Gerardin-Fresse, an internationally acclaimed lawyer and strategic advisor, who was awarded the prestigious ‘Top 50 UAE Personality’ distinction. He also received the Lawyer of Influence & Corporate Legal Visionary Award, presented by Sheikha Aisha Humaid Al Mulla. The event, themed ‘Innovation, Leadership, and Legacy,’ highlighted the UAE’s commitment to fostering excellence and entrepreneurship. Attendees included prominent figures such as Sheikh Zayed Bin Jamal Al Qassimi, Sheikha Aysha Bint Saud Al Qasimi, and Aarefa Al Fahali, among other royal dignitaries and business leaders. Gerardin-Fresse’s recognition underscores his unique blend of legal expertise and strategic entrepreneurship, which has significantly contributed to global partnerships and cross-border corporate transformations. His work exemplifies the values of integrity, foresight, and excellence that drive the UAE’s entrepreneurial spirit. The award not only honors his professional achievements but also acknowledges his holistic approach to leadership, where legal acumen serves as a catalyst for innovation and sustainable growth.
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Wearing two watches, making time for family: Abhishek Bachchan on his priorities
Bollywood star Abhishek Bachchan, known for his wit and charm, recently shared insights into his life, career, and passions in an exclusive interview with City Times. With his sports drama ‘Ghoomer’ re-released in theaters following the Indian women’s cricket team’s World Cup victory, Bachchan reflected on the enduring allure of big cinema and his personal priorities.
Bachchan emphasized the influence of directors on his acting career, stating, ‘Every director is influential to an actor. It’s not fair to single out one.’ He also discussed his approach to selecting projects, noting that he chooses films that resonate with audiences and inspire him as an artist.
The re-release of ‘Ghoomer’ was a tribute to the perseverance of the Indian women’s cricket team, a decision made by director R. Balki. Bachchan expressed pride in the film’s renewed success.
Addressing the rise of OTT platforms, Bachchan welcomed the shift, highlighting the opportunities it provides for emerging talent. However, he remains confident in the timeless charm of theatrical experiences, asserting, ‘The magic of going to the movies will never go away.’
Family remains a cornerstone of Bachchan’s life. He cherishes rare moments spent with loved ones, describing a shared meal as the ultimate luxury. Reflecting on his career, he shared valuable life lessons: ‘Never give up. Believe in yourself. Fight the good fight.’
Bachchan’s passion for luxury timepieces, particularly Omega watches, stems from his teenage years in Switzerland. He owns over 40 watches, many of which hold sentimental value. Inspired by his father, Amitabh Bachchan, and his sister’s dual-time-zone watches, he now wears two watches as a nod to his family’s legacy.
Through his words, Bachchan offers a glimpse into his multifaceted life, balancing cinema, family, and personal passions with grace and dedication.
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Meta is earning a fortune on a deluge of fraudulent ads, internal documents show
Internal documents from Meta, reviewed by Reuters, reveal that the tech giant projected 10% of its 2024 revenue—approximately $16 billion—would come from advertisements promoting scams and banned goods. These documents, spanning from 2021 to 2025, highlight Meta’s struggle to curb a flood of fraudulent ads on its platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp. Despite internal warnings, Meta’s automated systems only banned advertisers if they were 95% likely to be fraudulent, while charging higher rates for those deemed suspicious but not conclusively fraudulent. This approach has allowed Meta to profit significantly from scam ads, with users exposed to an estimated 15 billion high-risk advertisements daily, generating $7 billion annually. The company’s ad-personalization system further exacerbates the issue by showing users more scam ads based on their interests. Meta’s internal assessment acknowledges the scale of abuse on its platforms but reveals a reluctance to implement stricter measures that could harm its revenue. Regulatory bodies worldwide, including the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and UK authorities, are pressuring Meta to address the issue. Meta has pledged to reduce scam ads by 50% in certain markets by 2025 and has already removed over 134 million pieces of scam content in 2025. However, internal documents suggest that Meta’s leadership has prioritized business interests over aggressive enforcement, with concerns that abrupt reductions in scam ad revenue could impact financial projections. The company anticipates regulatory fines of up to $1 billion but continues to earn billions from scam ads, far exceeding potential penalties. Meta’s strategy includes charging suspected fraudsters higher ad rates to deter them, though this approach has had mixed financial results. Critics argue that Meta’s efforts remain insufficient, with user reports of scams often ignored or dismissed. The revelations come as Meta invests heavily in artificial intelligence and other technologies, raising questions about its commitment to user safety and regulatory compliance.
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UAE launches hotline for reporting drug crimes with rewards for informants
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has ramped up its efforts to combat drug-related crimes through a series of strategic initiatives, including the launch of a confidential hotline for reporting drug offenses. During the UAE Government Annual Meetings 2025, Sheikh Zayed bin Hamad Al Nahyan, Chairman of the National Anti-Narcotics Authority (Nana), announced the hotline, which offers financial rewards to informants whose tips lead to the apprehension of traffickers and the prevention of smuggling attempts. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to unify national efforts against narcotics and involve all government entities and the community in this critical fight. Additionally, the UAE has identified and blocked 2,297 websites and social media accounts promoting drugs and mind-altering substances, targeting the digital platforms often exploited by traffickers. To further strengthen drug prevention, the UAE plans to introduce a new school subject, ‘Security and Safety,’ into primary and secondary curricula. This subject will educate students on avoiding harmful behaviors, with a particular focus on the dangers of drugs in secondary schools. The country is also enhancing international cooperation, collaborating with 24 nations to seize large quantities of narcotics abroad. These efforts aim to build an integrated ecosystem for prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation, safeguarding society from the pervasive threat of drugs.
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UAE app economy shifts to profitability as finance installs surge 700%
The UAE’s app economy is undergoing a transformative shift, moving from user acquisition to profitability, driven by loyalty, retention, and innovative engagement strategies. According to recent data from AppsFlyer, presented at the MAMA Dubai event, finance app installs have surged by an astonishing 700% between 2021 and 2024, while ad fraud on Android has dropped by 50%. These trends underscore the market’s growing sophistication and trust in digital ecosystems. Sarah Maina, Regional Manager for France and the Middle East at AppsFlyer, highlighted that the UAE is setting a global benchmark for sustainable app growth, emphasizing the importance of data integrity, user trust, and creative innovation. The finance sector’s remarkable growth is attributed to the UAE’s push toward a cashless economy and the rapid digital transformation of traditional banks. Shopping apps are also thriving, supported by hybrid retail models and buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) solutions. Meanwhile, gaming apps, once dominant, have plateaued, prompting developers to focus on hybrid monetization and immersive experiences. Maina stressed that the focus has shifted from downloads to loyalty and retention, with user acquisition spending increasing by 32% on Android and 36% on iOS. The decline in ad fraud, down 50% on Android and 25% on iOS, reflects improved education and technology. Super apps, which integrate shopping, travel, and payments, are gaining traction as brands leverage data and AI to personalize user experiences. With UAE users spending an average of 4.6 hours daily on their phones, the app economy’s future lies in trust, loyalty, and innovation.
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Kiara Jewellery named best luxury jewellery brand 2025
Kiara Jewellery has been honored with the title of Best Luxury Jewellery Brand 2025 at the esteemed Khatoon Entrepreneur Summit and Luxury Awards in Dubai. This accolade was bestowed following a rigorous evaluation process by the summit’s jury, which meticulously assessed candidates across various industries. Organized by Khatoon Luxury Events Organising LLC, the summit is renowned as a leading business platform in Dubai, celebrating groundbreaking innovations and bringing together accomplished entrepreneurs, investors, and senior professionals from sectors such as fashion, real estate, and hospitality. The awards recognize brands that excel in highly competitive fields. Kiara Jewellery’s recognition stems from its exceptional collections, which showcase advanced artistry and a seamless operational process from design to production. The brand’s co-founder, Ada Panday, also moderated the Wealth and Lifestyle panel, highlighting Kiara’s active role in Dubai’s thriving luxury market. With plans for further expansion, Kiara Jewellery continues to solidify its position as a leader in the luxury jewellery industry.
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‘Incredible week’: Rybakina outguns Sabalenka to win WTA Finals
In a stunning display of skill and determination, Elena Rybakina of Kazakhstan emerged victorious at the WTA Finals in Riyadh, defeating world number one Aryna Sabalenka in a gripping final. The match, which ended 6-3, 7-6 (7/0), marked Rybakina’s most significant triumph since her Wimbledon victory in 2022. This win also etched her name in history as the first player from Kazakhstan and the first representing an Asian country to lift the WTA Finals singles trophy. Rybakina’s performance was a masterclass in serving and returning, showcasing her resilience despite battling a shoulder injury throughout the tournament. Her victory earned her a record $5.235 million and propelled her to a year-end ranking of number five. The match was a testament to the intense rivalry between Rybakina and Sabalenka, who have faced off 14 times since 2019. Despite Sabalenka’s formidable tiebreak record this season, Rybakina dominated the decisive moments, finishing the match with 36 winners and just 22 unforced errors. Sabalenka, though defeated, set a new WTA Tour record for the most prize money earned in a single season, surpassing Serena Williams’ 2013 earnings. The Belarusian graciously acknowledged Rybakina’s superior performance during the trophy ceremony, expressing pride in her team’s efforts throughout the year. Rybakina’s win not only cements her status as one of the top players in women’s tennis but also highlights her ability to rise to the occasion on the sport’s biggest stages.
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Protesters storm Nigeria’s new art museum
A highly anticipated preview event at the newly constructed Museum of West African Art (Mowaa) in Benin City, Nigeria, was abruptly halted on Sunday as protesters stormed the premises, directing their anger at foreign visitors. The $25 million museum, designed by British-Ghanaian architect David Adjaye, was envisioned as a cultural hub and a potential home for the Benin Bronzes—priceless artifacts looted by British soldiers in the 19th century. However, the absence of these artifacts, coupled with disputes over the museum’s governance, fueled the demonstrators’ ire. Videos from the scene captured protesters verbally assaulting guests and demanding their departure. The museum’s management swiftly escorted all visitors to safety and issued a public apology for the disruption. According to a local resident, the protest reflects broader dissatisfaction among Edo State’s traditional rulers and government officials, who feel sidelined in the museum’s operations. The museum’s executive director, Phillip Ihenacho, clarified that Mowaa aims to serve a pan-African purpose, explaining the decision to remove ‘Edo’ from its name. The institution emphasized its independence and non-profit status, distancing itself from political affiliations. In response to the unrest, Mowaa has canceled all preview events leading up to its grand opening on Tuesday and advised visitors to avoid the campus until tensions subside. The incident underscores the complex legacy of colonial-era looted art and the challenges of cultural restitution in modern Africa.
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British man dies after being shot during robbery in Ghana
A tragic incident unfolded in the industrial city of Tema, near Accra, Ghana, where a British national lost his life during a robbery. Ashraf Qarmar Parvez, 68, was fatally shot on Friday after attempting to thwart the theft of his phone at a local drinking spot. According to police reports, Parvez succumbed to his injuries in the hospital. Authorities are actively pursuing the shooter, who is among a group of six suspects believed to have fled the scene on motorbikes. A 9mm bullet shell was recovered from the site, and witnesses have been interviewed as part of the ongoing investigation. The incident has sparked security concerns in Tema, although local police have described it as an isolated event. Efforts are underway to notify the British Embassy of Parvez’s death. The UK Foreign Office has been contacted for further comments.