Global Pulse

标签： Africa

非洲

  • CellSave Arabia qualified by Gilead and Kite to support advanced cell therapy for lymphoma patients

    CellSave Arabia qualified by Gilead and Kite to support advanced cell therapy for lymphoma patients

    In a significant advancement for cancer care in the Middle East, CellSave Arabia has achieved qualification from biotechnology leaders Gilead and Kite to deliver specialized cell storage services for lymphoma treatments across the United Arab Emirates. This strategic collaboration establishes new pathways for patients requiring advanced cellular therapies, particularly CAR T-cell treatments that represent a breakthrough in oncology care.

    As the region’s premier private stem cell laboratory operating under CSG.BIO, CellSave Arabia brings state-of-the-art biobanking capabilities to this partnership. The company maintains internationally recognized accreditations including AABB, FDA, and ISO 2038 certifications, ensuring compliance with global standards for cellular preservation. This infrastructure positions the organization as a critical component in the CAR T-cell treatment process, where secure handling and storage of biological material is paramount.

    Kite, a Gilead subsidiary acquired in 2017, stands as a global pioneer in cell therapy innovation. The company has developed transformative treatments including YESCARTA and TECARTUS, which have demonstrated remarkable efficacy against certain lymphoma variants. To date, more than 32,000 patients worldwide have received Kite’s CAR T-cell therapies through over 555 authorized treatment centers. Within the UAE, the company currently maintains two approved CAR T-cell therapies across four medical indications.

    Alia Abdel-Razeq, Chief Operating Officer of CellSave Arabia, emphasized the patient-centric nature of this collaboration. “Our fundamental mission revolves around placing patients at the core of every innovation we pursue,” she stated. “This partnership enables us to support lymphoma patients with unprecedented levels of precision, safety, and care while maintaining the highest preservation standards for cellular materials.”

    Eslam Khedr, Head of Oncology Regional Headquarters for Gilead and Kite Middle East, highlighted the individualized nature of CAR T therapy. “This approach represents a truly personalized treatment modality with curative intent for patients confronting difficult-to-treat blood cancers,” Khedr explained. “Meeting patient and healthcare professional needs requires robust treatment delivery infrastructure, which we’ve developed through one of the world’s most extensive in-house manufacturing networks.”

    This collaboration underscores the UAE’s emerging role as a regional hub for next-generation biomedical innovation and scientific collaboration. By combining CellSave Arabia’s specialized biobanking expertise with Gilead and Kite’s therapeutic leadership, the partnership aims to streamline treatment pathways, enhance accessibility to advanced cancer therapies, and ultimately improve outcomes for patients battling hematological malignancies across the Middle East.

  • Sri Lanka’s Hasaranga ruled out of T20 World Cup due to injury

    Sri Lanka’s Hasaranga ruled out of T20 World Cup due to injury

    Sri Lanka’s T20 World Cup aspirations have been dealt a devastating blow with the tournament’s organizing body confirming the withdrawal of premier spinner Wanindu Hasaranga due to a significant hamstring injury. The announcement came Tuesday following Sri Lanka’s opening match victory against Ireland, where Hasaranga had demonstrated his crucial value to the team by capturing three wickets in their 20-run triumph.

    The injury represents particularly cruel timing for the co-hosts, occurring just as Hasaranga appeared to be hitting his strategic peak in the global tournament. Bowling all-rounder Dushan Hemantha has been designated as the official replacement in Sri Lanka’s squad roster.

    Hasaranga’s absence creates an immense void in Sri Lanka’s bowling attack, depriving them of one of international cricket’s most formidable T20 spinners. The 28-year-old phenomenon currently ranks fifth globally in all-time T20 international wickets with 154 dismissals to his credit. This development compounds Sri Lanka’s existing injury concerns, following fast bowler Eshan Malinga’s earlier tournament exit due to shoulder dislocation, with Pramod Madushan having already joined as his substitute.

    The co-hosting nation now faces mounting pressure as they prepare for their critical second Group B encounter against Oman scheduled for Thursday. Team management must rapidly reconfigure their bowling strategy without their primary spin weapon in a tournament where marginal advantages often determine outcomes.

  • Man City’s Guardiola shrugs off title speculation, calls for more consistency

    Man City’s Guardiola shrugs off title speculation, calls for more consistency

    Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has emphatically dismissed the growing speculation surrounding the Premier League title race, redirecting focus toward immediate challenges ahead of Wednesday’s crucial encounter with Fulham. Despite trailing league leaders Arsenal by six points, Guardiola maintains that external narratives about championship implications hold no value in his tactical preparations.

    The Catalan coach expressed frustration with media fixation on title implications, stating, “Every time I conduct pre-match interviews, the narrative suggests that a single loss would mean disappearing from planet earth. My sole concern is determining how to defeat Fulham.” This perspective comes amid a concerning run of form that has seen City secure only two victories in their last seven league matches, while Arsenal capitalized with four wins during the same period.

    Guardiola acknowledged the significant challenge posed by Marco Silva’s Fulham, recalling their dramatic 5-4 victory in December that required exceptional resilience. He lavished praise on Fulham’s development under Silva’s leadership, noting: “Their tactical patterns, quality, and composure in possession have improved remarkably. Marco is undoubtedly among the top managers I’ve faced and is destined for elite recognition.”

    On the injury front, Guardiola confirmed the return of defensive midfielder John Stones from a thigh injury sustained during the previous Fulham encounter. Additionally, defender Abdukodir Khusanov has been cleared despite suffering a concussion during Sunday’s 2-1 victory at Liverpool. Regarding the Uzbekistan international, Guardiola remarked: “While he doesn’t speak like Shakespeare, his intelligence and decision-making continue to develop impressively.”

    The manager emphasized that consistency remains City’s primary objective, stating: “We’ve demonstrated excellent qualities for many months, but maintaining consistent performance levels is our current challenge. Securing three points requires executing our tactical philosophy effectively rather than worrying about external standings.”

  • Sulaiman and Maqsood lead the charge as Sharjah hosts action-packed golf double bill

    Sulaiman and Maqsood lead the charge as Sharjah hosts action-packed golf double bill

    The historic Sharjah Golf & Shooting Club served as the epicenter of UAE’s golfing excitement this past weekend, hosting consecutive tournaments that showcased both social and competitive play. The prestigious venue, which has been a cornerstone for Northern Emirates golf enthusiasts for over twenty years, demonstrated why it remains a vital hub for grassroots golf development in the region.

    The weekend’s action commenced with the BMW Open Social tournament, generously supported by AGMC. Ideal course conditions and favorable weather set the stage for exceptional performances across all categories. Dominating the event were Ramli Sulaiman and Syed Maqsood, whose spectacular 12-under-par betterball round featured nine net birdies and two net eagles, securing them a commanding victory.

    Parallel competitions on the Front and Back Nine courses produced equally impressive results. Aleksandra and Jacek Hanusik carded a remarkable seven-under-par 28 on the Front Nine, while Grant Bowen and Zac Van Zyl captured Back Nine honors with a six-under-par 30.

    As evening approached, the focus shifted to the fourth round of the Golf Society League, sponsored by Golf Away. The match-play format intensified as teams across three divisions battled for crucial points ahead of the upcoming knockout stage.

    League 1 witnessed The Grass Holes delivering a masterclass performance, sweeping both matches against The Dubai Exputts to claim maximum points. Defending champions Nepalese Golf Society maintained their strong form with dual victories over The Hole Seekers, while The All Stars and Al Puza divided their matches, each earning three points.

    In League 2, Sharjah Bunker Boyz strengthened their qualification prospects with a comprehensive clean sweep against Social Society 1. Kegs 1 narrowly prevailed over Dubai Dragons 1 in a tightly contested encounter, securing one win and one draw for four valuable points.

    League 3 saw Spartans Golf Society dominate with two victories against Social Golf 2, while GolfLinx 2 and Dragons 2 split their matches, each collecting three points.

    The accompanying Betterball Stableford competition provided additional drama as Fernando Cabero and Imad Alhamad of The Grass Holes claimed top honors with 45 points, edging out Sami Butt and Ye Liu of Sharjah Bunker Boyz on countback after both pairs finished level.

    With the fourth round completed, attention now turns to the March 8 fixtures, where societies will continue their pursuit of qualification for the ultimate prize—a Golf Away sponsored trip to Thailand.

  • This Dubai-based designer is building a sustainable fashion label between Italy, India, and the UAE

    This Dubai-based designer is building a sustainable fashion label between Italy, India, and the UAE

    Dubai-based fashion innovator Shivin Singh is redefining sustainable luxury through his transnational label Absent Findings, which seamlessly merges Italian craftsmanship with Indian cultural heritage while maintaining its operational base in the United Arab Emirates. The brand has rapidly gained international recognition for its distinctive approach to contemporary fashion that prioritizes environmental consciousness without compromising aesthetic excellence.

    Singh’s creative journey began with formal training at Florence’s prestigious Polimoda institute, followed by professional experience in Gucci’s Women’s Handbags merchandising department. This European foundation profoundly shaped his design sensibilities before he returned to Dubai to establish his own venture. Absent Findings distinguishes itself through its commitment to circular fashion principles, utilizing exclusively deadstock fabrics from European luxury houses and repurposing heirloom saris from his family archive.

    The designer’s multicultural background plays a pivotal role in the brand’s identity. His Bengali and Punjabi heritage informs the brand’s distinctive draping techniques and structural elements, particularly inspired by Chandigarh’s architectural legacy. Meanwhile, Dubai’s cosmopolitan environment provides the perfect incubator for his global perspective, allowing him to develop what he describes as a ‘cohesive visual language’ that resonates across international markets.

    Recent milestones include successful presentations at Dubai Fashion Week and upcoming digital showcases at Milan Fashion Week FW26/27. The brand has earned recognition from established institutions including Lineapelle and the Black Carpet Awards, while maintaining strong connections to Middle Eastern platforms like BRED Abu Dhabi and Sole DXB.

    Singh emphasizes that his production remains entirely UAE-based, with all design, pattern making, and sampling conducted in-house at his Dubai studio. This local commitment reflects his confidence in the region’s emerging fashion ecosystem and its growing community of creative talent. Looking forward, the designer maintains that his primary objective remains staying true to his distinctive vision rather than pursuing mass appeal, focusing on creating meaningful work that resonates with ‘creatives and obsessives’ who share his values.

  • Why are most of Dubai’s off-plan property owners holding onto their assets?

    Why are most of Dubai’s off-plan property owners holding onto their assets?

    Dubai’s real estate market is experiencing a significant behavioral shift as the majority of off-plan property investors are choosing to retain their assets rather than pursue immediate resale opportunities. This trend emerges despite the market showing signs of normalization following five years of unprecedented growth.

    According to Cavendish Maxwell’s comprehensive 2025 Dubai Residential Market Performance Report, the emirate’s property sector achieved historic milestones with over 200,000 transactions totaling Dh541.5 billion. Sales volume increased by 19% compared to 2024, while transaction values surged by 27%. The off-plan segment continued to dominate, accounting for 73% of all sales activity and generating Dh395.7 billion in value—a 32% year-on-year increase.

    Market experts identify multiple factors influencing investor behavior. Zacky Sajjad, Director and Head of Business Development at Cavendish Maxwell, notes that only 10-20% of off-plan unit owners are currently pursuing resales. This retention strategy appears driven by investors awaiting optimal returns that continue to outperform many global markets, despite recent modest price adjustments.

    The market’s underlying fundamentals remain robust. Geopolitical stability continues to attract international buyers, while record tourism numbers and population growth sustain demand. The Property Monitor Index, tracking 41 freehold communities, indicates three consecutive months of marginal decline, suggesting a controlled cooling period rather than a sharp correction.

    Supply dynamics also play a crucial role. While 110,500 new units are forecast for delivery in 2026, historical completion rates suggest actual deliveries may range between 33,000-50,000 units—a significant reduction from initial projections that could support property values.

    Ronan Arthur, Head of Residential Valuation at Cavendish Maxwell, characterizes the current phase as a transition toward market normalization. ‘After another record-breaking year, rising supply and slowing price growth indicate more balanced conditions emerging in 2026,’ Arthur observed. ‘Future performance will increasingly depend on absorption rates, buyer sentiment, and the market’s ability to digest upcoming completions.’

    This holding pattern among investors reflects a maturation of Dubai’s property market, with participants demonstrating increased sophistication and long-term perspective compared to previous market cycles.

  • Al Zahra Hospital Dubai introduces advanced photon-counting CT technology

    Al Zahra Hospital Dubai introduces advanced photon-counting CT technology

    Al Zahra Hospital Dubai has achieved a groundbreaking milestone in medical imaging by deploying the NAEOTOM Alpha photon-counting computed tomography system from Siemens Healthineers. This state-of-the-art installation represents the first implementation of this revolutionary technology in the United Arab Emirates, significantly advancing the hospital’s diagnostic capabilities.

    Unlike conventional CT systems that utilize energy-integrating detectors, photon-counting technology operates by detecting and quantifying individual X-ray photons. This innovative approach generates exceptionally high-resolution images with substantially reduced noise interference while simultaneously enabling spectral imaging during every scan. The system’s sophisticated architecture permits superior differentiation between various biological materials including iodine, calcium, and soft tissues within a single imaging session, eliminating the necessity for additional specialized protocols.

    A particularly noteworthy advantage of this cutting-edge technology is its ability to deliver superior image quality while reducing radiation exposure by up to 30% compared to traditional CT systems. This radiation reduction proves especially beneficial for pediatric patients, cardiac imaging cases, and individuals requiring recurrent follow-up examinations. Furthermore, the system incorporates contrast dose optimization features that provide significant advantages for patients with renal impairments or other contraindications to contrast agents.

    In cardiovascular applications, the photon-counting CT demonstrates exceptional capability in imaging challenging coronary cases that previously posed diagnostic difficulties. Patients with extensive coronary calcification, elevated body mass indices, or higher heart rates can now be evaluated with unprecedented clarity. The technology’s enhanced spatial resolution enables more accurate assessment of coronary artery disease and facilitates improved treatment planning strategies.

    The system’s rapid acquisition speed and artificial intelligence-integrated software support make it particularly valuable in neurovascular emergencies. For stroke patients, the technology enables comprehensive evaluation of cerebral vasculature and perfusion within critical timeframes, potentially accelerating life-saving clinical decisions.

    Beyond cardiology and neurology, the technology offers substantial benefits across multiple medical specialties including orthopedics, oncology, and abdominal imaging. The system provides exceptional visualization of complex fractures, orthopedic implants, malignant tumors, and intricate lesions, often accomplishing comprehensive assessment through a single scanning procedure.

    Dr. Amr Aly, Chief Medical Officer at Al Zahra Hospital Dubai, emphasized the strategic importance of this advancement: ‘This technology deployment exemplifies our commitment to integrating world-class diagnostic solutions that enhance both clinical accuracy and patient safety. The photon-counting CT system represents a paradigm shift in medical imaging that will benefit numerous patient populations across our healthcare ecosystem.’

    This technological implementation aligns with Dubai’s broader vision to establish itself as a preeminent global healthcare destination, reinforcing the emirate’s position as a regional center for specialized medical care and cutting-edge technological innovation in the healthcare sector.

  • JIFU expands physical presence in the UAE amid rising regional wellness demand

    JIFU expands physical presence in the UAE amid rising regional wellness demand

    In a strategic response to growing regional demand for wellness products, international direct-selling enterprise JIFU has officially launched physical operations within the United Arab Emirates. This expansion establishes a critical regional headquarters that will serve the entire Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, signaling a shift from remote operational models to localized infrastructure development.

    The newly established UAE facility will function as a comprehensive support center, providing logistical coordination, regulatory compliance oversight, and field support for independent distributors operating throughout Gulf markets. Company executives emphasized that this physical presence reflects a deliberate strategy to align with specific regulatory requirements governing direct-selling businesses in the region while enhancing operational accountability.

    Market analysts observe that JIFU’s expansion coincides with accelerating growth in the Middle East wellness sector, driven by increasing consumer health consciousness and receptiveness to alternative retail distribution methods. Industry observers note that successful market penetration in the GCC increasingly demands tangible physical presence, transparent supply chains, and rigorous regulatory compliance to build long-term market credibility.

    The UAE was specifically selected for its advanced logistics infrastructure, business-friendly regulatory environment, and established role as a regional commercial gateway. According to company statements, physical operations enable deeper engagement with local stakeholders and more responsive market support systems.

    In an official statement, JIFU’s Chief Executive Officer outlined the strategic rationale: ‘Establishing physical operations in the UAE enables us to operate within a clear regulatory framework while providing structured support to our independent business owners. Our focus remains on sustainable development and responsible market expansion rather than pursuing rapid but potentially unstable market entry.’

    The UAE headquarters will additionally serve as a training center and compliance hub, ensuring distributor activities align with local business standards and regulatory expectations. While the company has not revealed specific timelines for further GCC expansion, it confirmed that the UAE operation constitutes the foundational element of its comprehensive regional strategy.

    JIFU, which markets wellness and lifestyle products through direct-selling channels across multiple international markets, exemplifies a broader trend of global consumer brands strengthening local operational presence in the Gulf region to address specific regulatory, logistical, and market dynamics.

  • Bid launched to extend Zimbabwe president’s term in office

    Bid launched to extend Zimbabwe president’s term in office

    Zimbabwe’s government has initiated a controversial constitutional overhaul that could permit President Emmerson Mnangagwa to remain in power until 2030. The cabinet-approved draft legislation proposes fundamental changes to presidential elections, shifting from direct public voting to parliamentary selection while extending term limits from five to seven years.

    The proposed constitutional amendments would establish a two-term maximum for presidents, potentially allowing the 83-year-old leader to extend his tenure beyond the scheduled 2028 expiration. Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi confirmed that public consultations will precede parliamentary debate, though the ruling Zanu-PF party dominates both legislative chambers.

    Legal scholars anticipate challenges to the proposed changes, noting that constitutional modifications affecting term limits require national referendums under existing law. Additionally, legal provisions explicitly prohibit amendments that benefit incumbent officials.

    Mnangagwa, nicknamed “The Crocodile” for his political shrewdness, initially assumed power following the 2017 military coup that deposed long-time leader Robert Mugabe. His subsequent electoral victories in 2018 and 2023 faced substantial dispute from opposition groups and international observers.

    The current push for extended governance echoes historical patterns in Zimbabwean politics. In 2013, citizens overwhelmingly supported term limits through a national referendum during Mugabe’s prolonged rule, which began at independence in 1980.

    Mnangagwa’s political maneuvers have faced internal resistance, most notably from Blessed Geza, a respected independence war veteran and Zanu-PF central committee member. Before his recent death in South Africa, Geza had become a prominent critic, accusing Mnangagwa of nepotism and corruption while mobilizing social media followers against presidential extension efforts.

    The government maintains that the proposed changes aim to strengthen governance structures and ensure political stability, particularly for implementing Mnangagwa’s “Agenda 2030” development program. Despite public rejection of extension proposals, presidential supporters have increasingly championed the “2030 he will still be the leader” slogan at party rallies.

  • This Week in Golf: LIV heads to Adelaide, Australia as LET returns to the Middle East

    This Week in Golf: LIV heads to Adelaide, Australia as LET returns to the Middle East

    The global golf landscape enters a dynamic phase this week with premier tournaments spanning three continents, featuring massive purses and elite competitors. All eyes are on Australia where LIV Golf makes its highly anticipated return to Adelaide for what many consider the breakaway tour’s premier event. The Grange Golf Club prepares to host an electrifying atmosphere as passionate Australian fans welcome home their national heroes.

    This homecoming carries special significance following last week’s Saudi Arabian triumph where 23-year-old sensation Elvis Smylie captured the individual title while Cam Smith’s all-Australian Ripper GC secured team honors. The dual victory sets the stage for an emotional celebration as LIV Golf showcases its global appeal with a $30 million purse at stake.

    Meanwhile, the PGA Tour launches its first Signature Event of the season at the legendary Pebble Beach Golf Links. The AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am features a stacked $20 million competition headlined by defending champion Rory McIlroy. The Northern Irishman leads a formidable European contingent including Tommy Fleetwood, Matt Fitzpatrick, and rising star Ludvig Åberg. World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler arrives with momentum after demonstrating remarkable resilience at the WM Phoenix Open, where he rebounded from an opening 73 with three consecutive sub-67 rounds to finish tied third.

    The Ladies European Tour returns to Riyadh Golf Club just days after it hosted LIV Golf’s Saudi event. The PIF Ladies International presents a $5 million purse, attracting the LET’s finest alongside several LPGA standouts in a 72-hole championship format.

    While the DP World Tour and Korn Ferry Tour observe brief pauses, Dubai-born professional Rayhan Thomas utilizes the break to regroup after missing last week’s cut. The 88th-ranked Korn Ferry competitor prepares for the tour’s upcoming South American swing through Argentina and Chile.

    Additional competition continues in South Africa where the HotelPlanner Tour stages the NTT DATA Pro-Am at Fancourt Golf Estate with ZAR 7 million in prize money.