Global Pulse

标签： Africa

非洲

  • Barclays predicts surge in GCC IPOs as UAE strengthens position as global listing hub

    Barclays predicts surge in GCC IPOs as UAE strengthens position as global listing hub

    Barclays projects significant growth in initial public offerings across the Gulf Cooperation Council region as the United Arab Emirates solidifies its position as a premier global listing destination. According to Nikita Turkin, Head of CEEMEA Equity Capital Markets at Barclays, favorable market conditions including declining global interest rates, subdued volatility, and receding inflation are creating an optimal environment for equity capital market activities.

    The GCC region has demonstrated remarkable resilience since its breakthrough year in 2022, maintaining substantial IPO momentum despite periodic market fluctuations. Turkin revealed that more than 50 companies are currently considering public offerings, characterizing this as “one of the strongest IPO pipelines globally.” This robust activity translated to IPOs constituting 45% of total ECM volumes in the previous year, with issuance reaching approximately $12 billion—comparable to 2023 levels.

    Barclays is reinforcing its regional presence through expanded research coverage, enhanced local sales teams, and securing a provisional operating license in Saudi Arabia. This strategic expansion builds upon the bank’s five-decade presence in the Gulf, reflecting long-term commitment to the region’s financial ecosystem.

    The UAE’s exchanges have emerged as particularly dynamic venues, with Turkin praising Dubai Financial Market and Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange for their “commercial and proactive” regulatory approach. He noted that UAE authorities demonstrate exceptional agility in updating regulations to meet market needs, often outperforming major European exchanges in responsiveness.

    This regulatory sophistication is transforming the UAE into a credible alternative to traditional international exchanges, with Turkin predicting that within ten years, companies from beyond the GCC will routinely choose UAE listings. Despite oil price concerns, investors remain focused on fundamental economic factors rather than crude volatility, with the UAE’s non-oil sectors now contributing 70-74% of GDP.

    The region demonstrates growing market maturity through increased utilization of sophisticated financial instruments including accelerated bookbuilds, fully marketed offerings, and rights issues. Cross-border listing activity continues to evolve, with most companies preferring local listings while maintaining flexibility between Saudi and UAE exchanges. For businesses with substantial US growth exposure, American listings remain relevant, but Gulf markets have now firmly established themselves on the global financial landscape.

  • Abu Dhabi talks on Ukraine were ‘constructive, positive’, says UAE

    Abu Dhabi talks on Ukraine were ‘constructive, positive’, says UAE

    Abu Dhabi has emerged as a pivotal diplomatic hub following successful trilateral negotiations between the United States, Russia, and Ukraine. The talks, characterized by participants as constructive and positive, mark a significant advancement in international efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict in Eastern Europe.

    According to Afra Al Hameli, Director of Strategic Communications at the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the discussions facilitated direct engagement between Russian and Ukrainian representatives. The negotiations focused on critical elements of the US-proposed peace framework and confidence-building measures designed to pave the way for a comprehensive agreement.

    The UAE government extended particular recognition to US President Donald Trump for his instrumental role in facilitating the dialogue, noting his contribution to reinforcing regional stability and advancing the political track toward peace. This diplomatic initiative builds upon the UAE’s established record as a neutral mediator, having previously hosted multiple rounds of Russia-Ukraine negotiations that resulted in approximately 17 successful prisoner-of-war exchanges.

    ‘Our approach to diplomacy is guided by the fundamental principle that conflicts cannot be resolved without dialogue, and progress is built through sustained engagement,’ stated Al Hameli in an official communication. ‘The UAE remains committed to supporting all efforts that advance peace across various global crises.’

    The successful hosting of these high-stakes talks reinforces Abu Dhabi’s growing stature as an international diplomacy center capable of bringing conflicting parties to the negotiation table under neutral auspices.

  • Dubai announces temporary closure of Al Qudra cycling track on January 25

    Dubai announces temporary closure of Al Qudra cycling track on January 25

    Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has issued a public notice regarding the temporary closure of the popular Al Qudra cycling track. The closure is scheduled for Sunday, January 25th, 2026, to accommodate the Women’s Race segment of the 10th edition of the Al Salam Cycling Championship 2025-2026.

    The suspension of access will be enforced from 7:00 AM until 6:00 PM, precisely aligning with the scheduled start time and expected duration of the competitive event. The RTA has confirmed that the facility will resume normal operations immediately following the conclusion of the championship activities.

    This infrastructure management decision highlights the city’s ongoing commitment to hosting major international sporting events while balancing the needs of recreational users. The Al Qudra track, a premier destination for cycling enthusiasts in the region, will provide the backdrop for this significant women’s sporting competition, now in its tenth iteration.

    The temporary disruption is implemented to ensure maximum safety for both professional athletes participating in the championship and the general public. Authorities recommend that regular users of the track plan their activities accordingly and seek alternative routes or timing for their cycling exercises during this period.

  • Ras Al Khaimah’s off‑plan real estate market is entering one of its most dynamic phases

    Ras Al Khaimah’s off‑plan real estate market is entering one of its most dynamic phases

    Ras Al Khaimah’s property sector is experiencing unprecedented transformation, with Al Marjan Island positioned as the epicenter of the emirate’s real estate renaissance. Market analytics reveal a remarkable 21% year-on-year surge in average price per square foot as of early 2026, signaling a fundamental restructuring of regional investment patterns.

    The catalytic force behind this economic acceleration is the rapidly progressing Wynn Al Marjan Island resort, a $5.1 billion integrated luxury destination scheduled for its 2027 inauguration. Construction milestones, including the recent topping out of the project’s tower, have generated substantial market confidence, creating what industry specialists term a “pre-opening squeeze” that continues to elevate prices while diminishing available inventory.

    This development surge coincides with Ras Al Khaimah’s record-breaking tourism performance, which welcomed 1.35 million overnight visitors in 2025. The growing hospitality investments are simultaneously reinforcing long-term residential demand, particularly within the off-plan segment that attracts both regional and international investors seeking early market positioning.

    Demonstrating this premium market trend, ELEVATE’s ultra-exclusive Sky Mansion at Mondrian Al Marjan Island Beach Residences recently transacted for Dh38 million shortly after the project’s groundbreaking ceremony. This record-setting sale of the development’s signature residence occurred within hours of its market release, establishing new benchmarks for luxury waterfront properties in the Northern Emirates.

    Concurrently, Source of Fate (SOF) has initiated construction on Miraggio, their flagship luxury waterfront development, following the achievement of Dh1 billion in sales with 50% of units secured through pre-construction bookings. This substantial investor commitment reflects growing confidence in Ras Al Khaimah’s premium real estate offerings.

    Further enhancing the island’s prestige, One Broker Group has been appointed exclusive sales partner for AARK Developers’ $1.4 billion Karl Lagerfeld-branded residential project. This fashion-house-integrated development, featuring over 600 sea-facing residences with direct beach access and proximity to the Wynn Resort, represents another strategic enhancement to Al Marjan Island’s luxury portfolio.

    Market analysts conclude that Ras Al Khaimah is undergoing a strategic transition from secondary market status to becoming a significant investment destination, where early participants stand to gain substantial advantages from continued price appreciation and rental yield growth ahead of the Wynn Resort’s operational debut.

  • Wife of Uganda’s opposition leader recounts how armed men attacked her at her home

    Wife of Uganda’s opposition leader recounts how armed men attacked her at her home

    KAMPALA, Uganda — The residence of Ugandan opposition figure Bobi Wine became the scene of a violent intrusion Friday night as armed men in military attire forcibly entered the property seeking information on his whereabouts. Barbara Kyagulanyi, the politician’s wife commonly known as Barbie, sustained injuries during the confrontation and is currently receiving medical treatment at Nsambya Hospital in Kampala.

    According to eyewitness accounts from Ms. Kyagulanyi, approximately two dozen uniformed personnel breached the security perimeter of the compound while the opposition leader remained in hiding following recent presidential elections. The assailants allegedly subjected her to physical assault and intimidation tactics in an attempt to extract information regarding her husband’s location.

    The incident occurred amidst heightened political tensions following the January 15 electoral process that saw President Yoweri Museveni declared victor with 71.6% of ballots. Wine’s National Unity Platform (NUP) party has formally rejected the official results, citing widespread irregularities and alleging electoral manipulation.

    Digital evidence captured during the raid, subsequently circulated on social media platform X, depicts moments of the altercation that culminated in Ms. Kyagulanyi losing consciousness. Medical reports indicate she received treatment for physical trauma and acute anxiety following the episode.

    Political analysts have raised concerns regarding escalating patterns of intimidation against opposition members. General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, current army chief and presidential son, has previously engaged in inflammatory rhetoric targeting Wine through social media channels, though no direct evidence links him to Friday’s events.

    International observers including United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres have called for restraint and adherence to constitutional principles. The electoral process was previously marred by nationwide internet restrictions and technical failures in biometric voting systems, particularly affecting opposition strongholds.

    President Museveni, who will now commence his seventh term extending his rule toward five decades, maintains support from constituents who credit his administration with maintaining regional stability. Meanwhile, NUP leadership reports numerous party members remain detained or unaccounted for since the election.

  • Woman compensated Dh300,000 after falling victim to online fraud scheme in UAE

    Woman compensated Dh300,000 after falling victim to online fraud scheme in UAE

    In a significant legal ruling addressing cybercrime, Al Ain Civil, Commercial and Administrative Claims Court has mandated a substantial compensation payment of Dh300,000 to a female victim of an elaborate online fraud scheme. The judgment comes as authorities intensify efforts to combat increasingly sophisticated digital financial crimes across the United Arab Emirates.

    The court established that the defendant collaborated with an unidentified accomplice who impersonated a consumer protection official during telephone communications with the victim. The fraudster deceitfully claimed to be addressing a previously submitted complaint and manipulated the woman into believing her banking accounts required immediate security enhancements to prevent potential financial losses.

    Exploiting this fabricated narrative, the scammer persuaded the victim to disclose confidential banking credentials. This breach enabled the criminal network to illicitly withdraw substantial funds from her accounts, apply for unauthorized loans using her identity, and execute clandestine transfers without her knowledge or consent.

    The civil litigation sought both financial restitution for the stolen Dh270,000 and additional compensation for the psychological trauma and reputational damage inflicted by the crime. The court’s deliberation referenced the defendant’s prior conviction in parallel criminal proceedings, which definitively established culpability through evidence demonstrating monetary acquisition via information technology and deceptive practices.

    Judicial authorities emphasized that the criminal conviction provided irrefutable evidence of fault and demonstrated a direct causal relationship between the defendant’s actions and the damages incurred. This precedent strengthened the civil claim, resulting in the comprehensive ruling that includes full financial restoration plus Dh30,000 for material and moral damages.

    This case occurs amidst heightened concerns regarding impersonation scams targeting UAE residents. Fraudsters frequently pose as representatives of consumer protection agencies, financial institutions, or government entities to harvest sensitive information. Official advisories consistently emphasize that legitimate organizations never solicit banking details, one-time passwords, or login credentials via telephone or digital messaging platforms.

    Security experts recommend that residents implement rigorous verification protocols for unsolicited communications, refrain from sharing personal information with unverified parties, and immediately report suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies. The ruling demonstrates the judiciary’s commitment to protecting citizens from evolving digital threats while setting a compensatory standard for future cybercrime cases.

  • Fashion Friday to free prediction contest: How Dubai Racing Carnival draws new crowds

    Fashion Friday to free prediction contest: How Dubai Racing Carnival draws new crowds

    The Dubai Racing Carnival is successfully drawing unprecedented crowds to Meydan racecourse through its innovative Fashion Friday events, creating a vibrant social phenomenon that transcends traditional horse racing audiences. With accessible ticket prices beginning at just Dh10, the carnival has become a popular destination for diverse groups seeking entertainment, dining, and social experiences.

    First-time attendees like French visitors Ophelie and Adrien, accompanied by their seven-month-old Marceau, discovered the event through word-of-mouth rather than racing enthusiasm. ‘We love the ambience and the energy,’ Adrien noted after their second visit. ‘It is clean, there are numerous restaurant stalls to choose from, and conveniently located near our residence.’ The family plans to attend regularly throughout the season.

    A significant attraction proving particularly popular is the free prediction competition, which has inspired participants like Adrien to engage more deeply with the sport. After initially relying on AI assistance from ChatGPT for selections, he now plans to research proper racing analysis techniques to improve his chances of winning.

    The event has demonstrated remarkable success in introducing horse racing to completely new demographics. Kallesh and Savita, attending with their sons Srujan and Satvik, represented many first-time visitors drawn by friends’ recommendations. ‘The horse race was so cool,’ exclaimed young Satvik, capturing the fresh excitement generated among newcomers.

    Beyond the racing action, the carnival offers diverse attractions including a Millinery exhibition featuring creations from top global designers, where Savita enthusiastically tried elaborate headpieces for the first time. The venue also provides pop-up restaurants from leading UAE establishments and dedicated children’s play areas, creating a comprehensive family entertainment experience.

    The social dimension extends to friend reunions, with groups like Karishma Joshi and her college companions selecting Fashion Friday as their preferred meeting venue. ‘We all get to dress up, have great food, watch the horses, and enjoy fantastic fun together,’ Joshi explained, highlighting how the event serves multiple social purposes beyond the actual racing.

    This innovative approach to presenting horse racing has transformed Meydan Racecourse into a multifaceted entertainment destination, successfully attracting and retaining audiences who might otherwise never have engaged with the sport.

  • UAE weather: Rains likely; temperatures to dip to 13°C in Abu Dhabi

    UAE weather: Rains likely; temperatures to dip to 13°C in Abu Dhabi

    Residents across the United Arab Emirates are preparing for a weekend marked by rainfall and cooler temperatures, according to the latest forecast from the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM). Meteorological data indicates fair to partly cloudy conditions will gradually give way to increased cloud cover by nighttime, particularly over maritime zones and northern coastal areas.

    Temperature readings are projected to remain within comfortable ranges, with Abu Dhabi anticipated to experience lows of 13°C while Dubai may see minimum temperatures of 14°C. Maximum temperatures across the emirates are not expected to exceed 26°C, creating pleasantly cool conditions for outdoor activities.

    Wind patterns will feature light to moderate southeasterly to northeasterly flows, maintaining speeds between 10-20 km/h with occasional intensification reaching 35 km/h. Maritime conditions present varying scenarios, with the Arabian Gulf expected to experience slight to moderate waves while the Oman Sea may develop rough waters by Sunday morning.

    The weather shift brings a refreshing change to the region’s typically arid climate, offering residents a reprieve from warmer conditions. The NCM continues to monitor atmospheric developments and advises citizens to stay updated through official channels for any weather advisories.

  • Using DIY lash extensions? UAE experts say ‘not worth the risk’ amid rise in eye issues

    Using DIY lash extensions? UAE experts say ‘not worth the risk’ amid rise in eye issues

    Medical professionals in the United Arab Emirates are issuing urgent warnings against the growing trend of at-home eyelash extension applications, citing a dramatic increase in serious ocular complications. Ophthalmologists report a concerning surge in patients presenting with severe eye conditions directly linked to unprofessional lash procedures.

    According to Dr. Nikulaa Parachuri, Specialist in Ophthalmology and Retinal Surgery at Aster Hospital Qusais, complications range from blepharitis (eyelid margin inflammation) and chronic dry eyes to conjunctivitis, keratitis, and even permanent vision damage. “We’re observing multiple cases weekly stemming from improper lash application techniques and substandard adhesives,” Dr. Parachuri confirmed.

    The accessibility of inexpensive DIY lash kits—available online for as little as Dh30 compared to professional salon services costing Dh200-Dh500—has contributed significantly to the problem. These kits often contain formaldehyde-based adhesives and methyl/ethyl cyanoacrylate compounds that pose severe irritation risks. Many users experience allergic reactions, chemical burns, and toxic responses to these poorly regulated products.

    Olga V., a Ukrainian lash technician practicing in the UAE, reports encountering clients weekly with infections from DIY attempts. “People underestimate the delicacy of the eye area,” she noted. “Without proper training, one contaminated tool or misplaced adhesive can cause significant damage.”

    Particularly hazardous practices include applying excessively heavy extensions, stacking multiple lash layers, using unsterilized tools, and placing adhesive too close to the lid margin. Warning signs of complications include persistent redness, swelling, itching, burning sensations, excessive tearing, crusting, discharge, and abnormal lash loss.

    Dr. Parachuri emphasized that corneal infections can progress to ulceration and scarring—potentially causing permanent blindness if untreated. Eyelid scarring and permanent follicle damage may also occur from repeated irritation and improper extension removal.

    While magnetic lashes present a somewhat safer alternative by eliminating glue-related reactions, medical professionals caution that no lash enhancement method is entirely risk-free. They particularly advise against extensions for individuals with pre-existing conditions including dry eye disease, meibomian gland dysfunction, chronic allergies, sensitive skin, recent eye surgery, or compromised immune systems.

    Consumers are urged to verify product safety data sheets, request medical-grade adhesives, and ensure technicians maintain strict hygiene protocols including single-use application tools and proper disinfection practices. Any salon normalizing post-application irritation should be considered a red flag, experts warn.

  • Africa looks to diversify markets amid uncertainty

    Africa looks to diversify markets amid uncertainty

    Against a backdrop of deepening global geopolitical fractures, African nations are strategically repositioning their international economic alliances. The continent finds itself navigating between tightening Western restrictions and expanding Eastern opportunities, prompting a fundamental reassessment of its global engagement strategy.

    Stephen Nduvi, a Nairobi-based public policy expert, observes that Washington’s shift toward unilateralism—manifested through stricter visa regimes and reduced overseas aid—is significantly constraining African economies and mobility. Simultaneously, China is moving in the opposite direction, offering zero-tariff market access to 53 African nations, creating alternative trade corridors that are reshaping the continent’s external economic options.

    The immediate consequences of US policy changes are already materializing. Declining American assistance is straining health systems, humanitarian programs, and governance reforms that remain dependent on external financing. Furthermore, tightened visa policies are restricting business mobility, academic exchanges, and research collaboration. Nduvi characterizes these restrictions as ‘nontariff barriers’ that subtly undermine innovation, entrepreneurship, and access to global knowledge networks.

    Charles Onunaiju, Director of Nigeria’s Centre for China Studies, interprets Washington’s retreat not as a sudden shock but as the culmination of a long-running trend. He notes that Africa should have anticipated a more inward-looking US, referencing years of limited market access under initiatives like the African Growth and Opportunity Act, which frequently imposed political and ideological conditions.

    African nations have already initiated diversification efforts, particularly toward the Asia-Pacific region, which now accounts for nearly half of global trade. Growing ties with China, Southeast Asia, and emerging blocs like BRICS, coupled with efforts to boost intra-African trade, demonstrate the continent’s proactive approach to building buffers against external shocks.

    Both experts emphasize that China’s zero-tariff policy could prove transformative by not only expanding export earnings but also providing a pathway for structural economic transformation. Access to the Chinese market could incentivize local processing, manufacturing, and job creation, enabling African nations to ascend value chains rather than perpetuating raw material exports.

    However, external opportunities will only yield lasting benefits if matched by internal reforms. Nduvi stresses that reducing dependence on foreign aid requires shifting from consumption-led growth to production-driven development. Strengthening domestic resource mobilization through tax base expansion, digital systems, and reduced financial leakages is critical, alongside industrial policy aligned with infrastructure, finance, and skills development.

    Onunaiju adds that resilience in an increasingly volatile world will depend on state capacity and social consensus, emphasizing that strong institutions, inclusive governance, and regional connectivity are essential for absorbing geopolitical shocks.

    As African representatives engage at international forums like Davos, the continent is projected to demonstrate confidence, coherence, and strategic clarity. The future of Africa’s global partnerships will be defined less by aid and more by reciprocity, value addition, technology transfer, and mutual respect for sovereignty.