The UAE’s initial public offering (IPO) market is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing investor confidence, regulatory reforms, and a supportive macroeconomic environment. While Saudi Arabia led the region with eight IPOs raising $637 million in the third quarter of 2025, the UAE’s momentum is underpinned by its strengthening ecosystem, including expanding market depth, new sector participation, and enhanced regulatory frameworks. These factors have broadened both issuer and investor bases, solidifying the UAE’s position as a leading IPO destination outside Asia. High-profile listings across sectors such as utilities, real estate, logistics, energy services, and technology have further deepened investor trust. The Dubai Financial Market (DFM) and Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) have benefited from government initiatives encouraging state-linked and family-owned enterprises to go public, while private-sector firms are increasingly exploring listings as part of their expansion strategies. Liquidity in UAE equity markets has also improved, driven by increased institutional investor participation and sovereign fund activity. The ADX, in particular, has attracted strong international inflows due to large-cap issuances and enhanced trading infrastructure, while the DFM has seen renewed retail participation. Compelling valuations, steady dividend policies, and earnings visibility have bolstered market confidence. The third quarter of 2025 saw robust performance across regional indices, with the MSCI Emerging Markets Index rising 25%, Egypt’s EGX30 Index gaining 23.3%, and Kuwait’s Premier Market Index climbing 19.6%. These gains highlight investor resilience amid global macroeconomic uncertainty, with the UAE emerging as a stable and predictable market for long-term regional growth exposure. A diverse range of sectors, including infrastructure contracting, education services, energy logistics, advanced manufacturing, technology, and consumer services, are preparing for public offerings, signaling a broader regional capital formation trend. Regulatory reforms, such as updated corporate governance rules in the UAE and Saudi Arabia’s adjustments to market-making regulations, have enhanced market attractiveness and transparency. The UAE’s IPO narrative aligns with its economic diversification strategy, supporting private-sector growth, deepening liquidity pools, and channeling domestic savings into productive investments. With a healthy IPO pipeline, strong regulatory momentum, and improving liquidity, the UAE’s capital markets are poised to remain a key driver of regional investment activity and corporate growth, solidifying its position as a rising global capital market hub.
标签： Asia
亚洲
-
China Innovation Index up 5.3% in 2024: official data
China’s innovation landscape witnessed significant growth in 2024, as the China Innovation Index surged by 5.3% to reach 174.2, according to data released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) on Wednesday. This upward trajectory underscores the nation’s enhanced innovation capabilities and its pivotal role in reshaping the economic framework. The innovation environment saw marked improvements, driven by increased investment, accelerated innovation output, and stronger economic drivers. Notably, China’s expenditure on basic research soared by 10.7% year-on-year to 250.09 billion yuan ($35.3 billion), maintaining a robust double-digit growth rate. The proportion of basic research in total R&D spending hit a record high of 6.88%. Additionally, the number of invention patents granted in China rose by 13.5% to 1.05 million, reflecting the country’s commitment to fostering intellectual property development. The ‘three new’ economy—encompassing new industries, new business formats, and new models—accounted for 18.01% of China’s GDP, up 0.43 percentage points from 2023, further highlighting the transformative impact of innovation on the economy.
-
It’s APEC time – Global spotlight on Gyeongju
The global spotlight is firmly fixed on Gyeongju, Republic of Korea, as it hosts the 2025 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit. This year’s event brings together 21 economies, not merely to discuss economic growth but to collaboratively shape the future of the region. Key themes dominating the agenda include artificial intelligence, the digital economy, and energy transition, all of which underscore the transformative potential of innovation and sustainability. The summit emphasizes connectivity as a driving force for shared prosperity, marking a pivotal moment in the Asia-Pacific’s journey toward a new era of cooperation. Adding to the excitement, China is set to host APEC in 2026, promising further developments in regional collaboration. The event highlights the region’s commitment to addressing global challenges while fostering economic and technological advancements. As leaders and policymakers convene, the world watches closely to see how these discussions will translate into actionable strategies for a more interconnected and sustainable future.
-
Stranger Things comes to UAE: Opening date, tickets; all you need to know
Fans of the hit Netflix series ‘Stranger Things’ in the UAE are in for a treat as ‘Stranger Things: The Experience’ makes its Middle Eastern debut at Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. Opening on November 14, 2025, this immersive attraction will transport visitors into the eerie yet captivating world of Hawkins, Indiana, just ahead of the release of the show’s fifth and final season in late November. The experience promises to blend cutting-edge technology, live actors, and elaborate sets to create an unforgettable journey through the beloved series. Attendees will step into Hawkins Lab, interact with iconic characters like Eleven and Dustin, and even unlock their own powers to battle Vecna in a unique storyline. The adventure culminates in a vibrant ‘Mix-Tape’ zone, celebrating the show’s ’80s nostalgia with themed food, photo opportunities, and exclusive merchandise. Tickets, starting at Dh75, go on sale on November 4, with the experience running through February 15, 2026. The attraction is open Thursday to Sunday, with recommended timings for families and children aged 5 and above. This event marks a significant milestone for entertainment in the region, offering fans a chance to dive deeper into the ‘Stranger Things’ universe.
-
IAME UAE Series Round 2–3 deliver thrilling weekend at Dubai Kartdrome
The IAME UAE Series 2025/2026 season reached new heights during a thrilling double-header weekend at Dubai Kartdrome, hosting Round 2 on October 18 and Round 3 on October 19. The event, marked by scorching temperatures and intense competition, showcased the burgeoning talent of young drivers across multiple categories. Founded in Italy in 1968, IAME has become a global leader in kart engine manufacturing, with its UAE chapter spearheaded by Sheikh Waleed Al Qassimi. As the owner of RAK Track and president of IAME UAE, Sheikh Waleed has been instrumental in fostering a world-class motorsport ecosystem in the region. The weekend’s races were a testament to the sport’s growing popularity, drawing competitors and fans from across the GCC and beyond. Round 3, in particular, delivered nail-biting action across five categories. In the Bambino Class, Sam Testa secured a hard-fought victory, while Baptiste Augustin triumphed in the Mini Category. Leonidas Peruzzi continued his dominance in the Junior Class, and Youif Busenad clinched a dramatic win in the Senior/170 Category. Maximillian Dexter rounded out the weekend with a victory in the Senior Class. Sheikh Waleed Al Qassimi praised the event, highlighting the remarkable progress of karting in the UAE and the bright future ahead. With the Dubai rounds concluded, the championship now heads to Sharjah Kart Track for the next leg of this fiercely competitive season.
-
African officials visit Ningxia e-commerce poverty relief workshop
A delegation of African grassroots officials recently embarked on a visit to the Hemei e-commerce poverty alleviation workshop in Minning township, Yinchuan city, as part of a poverty reduction exchange program in the Ningxia Hui autonomous region. The workshop, established in 2019, stands as the region’s pioneering e-commerce-based poverty alleviation center and has garnered international recognition as a model for poverty reduction. During their visit, the officials explored the workshop’s innovative approach to leveraging e-commerce to create job opportunities, particularly for local women, and its broader impact on community development. The initiative highlights the potential of digital platforms in addressing poverty and fostering economic empowerment, offering valuable insights for similar efforts in Africa. The exchange program underscores the growing collaboration between China and African nations in sharing best practices for sustainable development.
-
Beijing issues fog alert with visibility dropping below 500 meters
On the morning of October 29, 2025, the Beijing Meteorological Service issued a yellow fog alert for several districts, including Daxing, Tongzhou, Chaoyang, Shunyi, Fangshan, and Fengtai. Visibility in some areas dropped below 500 meters, significantly impacting transportation and public safety. The National Meteorological Center also renewed the yellow fog warning at 6 a.m., indicating that foggy conditions would persist across Beijing and other parts of the country until noon. In southern Beijing, visibility was reported to be as low as 200 meters. Authorities advised the public to stay updated on traffic conditions, use public transportation, and exercise caution on the roads. Outdoor activities, particularly high-altitude work, were suspended for safety. Meteorologists predict that visibility will improve from late night into Thursday morning due to northerly winds. China’s four-tier weather warning system categorizes yellow as the third most severe level, following red and orange.
-
Israel kills 100, including 35 children, in night of heavy Gaza bombardment
In a devastating escalation of violence, Israeli military forces conducted a series of air strikes across the Gaza Strip on Tuesday and Wednesday, resulting in the deaths of more than 100 Palestinians, including 35 children. The attacks targeted key areas such as Gaza City, Khan Younis, and refugee camps in central Gaza, striking homes, tents, and even the courtyard of a hospital. The death toll is anticipated to rise as many of the wounded are in critical condition, and others remain trapped under the rubble. The director of Al-Shifa hospital in Gaza City described the health situation as ‘catastrophic,’ citing a severe shortage of medical supplies and medicines to treat the injured. The Palestinian Civil Defence has urgently called for an ‘immediate and comprehensive ceasefire.’ After nearly 12 hours of intense bombing, the Israeli military announced the reimposition of the ceasefire at 10 am local time. Israel accused Hamas of violating the ceasefire, pointing to an alleged attack on troops in Rafah that resulted in the death of one soldier and delays in the return of dead captives. Hamas denied involvement in the Rafah incident, attributing the delay to logistical challenges known to both Israel and the United States. US President Donald Trump supported Israel’s actions, stating it had ‘the right to retaliate’ and warning that Hamas could be ‘eliminated’ if it fails to comply with the ceasefire. The Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) condemned the strikes, holding the US administration ‘fully responsible’ for the massacre and criticizing Trump’s statements as political cover for Israel’s actions. According to the Gaza-based Government Media Office, Israel has committed at least 125 ceasefire violations since October 11, resulting in over 180 deaths and 300 injuries. Israel has also continued to restrict aid entry and keep the Rafah crossing closed, further violating the ceasefire agreement.
-
Exclusive interview with the designer of the 15th National Games mascots after their viral social media debut
As the 15th National Games draw near, the mascots Xiyangyang and Lerongrong have captured the hearts of millions with their endearing, chicken-like designs. Contrary to their whimsical appearance, these mascots are inspired by the Chinese white dolphins inhabiting the Pearl River Estuary, near the iconic Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge. In an exclusive interview, Liu Pingyun, the lead designer, expressed his delight at the mascots’ viral success on social media. He encouraged the public to use accessible and popular language to describe the mascots, believing it would amplify their reach and message. Liu emphasized the importance of cultural representation in the design, aiming to bridge tradition with modernity. The mascots have not only become symbols of the upcoming games but also a testament to China’s rich biodiversity and cultural heritage.
-
From India to Pakistan and the global diaspora, South Asian sounds make an impact worldwide
The global music scene is witnessing a remarkable rise in South Asian influences, as artists from the region gain international recognition and audiences. Arooj Aftab made history in 2022 as the first Pakistani Grammy winner, securing the Best Global Music Performance award for her song “Mohabbat.” In 2023, Diljit Dosanjh became the first Punjabi artist to perform at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, highlighting the region’s rich musical heritage. Meanwhile, Avara, a first-generation Indian American artist, captivated fans during her debut tour, with her monthly Spotify listeners skyrocketing by over 250% since November 2024. Warner Music Group’s launch of 5 Junction Records in April further underscores the growing demand for South Asian-inspired music in North America. Billboard CEO Mike Van attributes this surge to evolving tastes, technological advancements, and the activation of diaspora audiences. Artists like Nora Fatehi, who transitioned from Bollywood to global stardom, exemplify the power of cross-cultural collaboration. As the U.S. becomes increasingly diverse, younger generations are embracing global sounds, with Gen Z and Gen Alpha leading the charge. Avara’s journey, blending Indian classical and Western influences, reflects the rise of “third culture kids” who navigate multiple cultural identities. Her upcoming album, “MARA,” aims to create a new genre by fusing diverse musical styles. This cultural fusion is reshaping the global music industry, offering fresh perspectives and innovative sounds.