With reference to the letter of the Ministry of Finance on 18/05/2026 regarding the Treasury Bonds 19 May 2028 Variable Return,according to the prospectus, a Quarterly coupon is due on these bonds, which is determined at the beginning of the period and is disbursed and recalculated every Three Months , according to the change in the average corridor rate of the central bank, since The Fifth Coupon for this bond is due on 19/08/2026,the price of The Fifth Coupon Is 23.8357%

Company Name : Aspire Capital Holding for Financial Investments
ISIN Code : EGS691L1C018
Reuters Code : ASPI.CA
Subscription Price : 0.2 EGP
Entitled to Rights Issue till : 25/05/2026
Beginning Date Of Subscription to Rights Issue : 02/06/2026
Ending Date of Subscription to Rights Issue : 28/06/2026
Number of Shares Prior to Right Offering : 2,000,000,000 shares
Number of Shares Pursuant to Rights Offering : 3,900,000,000 shares
Number of Shares Increased : 1,900,000,000 shares

Release from FRA (2,892 KB)

Youm7-

The Egyptian Exchange closed trading on Monday with a general decline across its indices, pressured by selling from Arab and foreign investors, while Egyptian investors were net buyers. Trading volume reached EGP 10.4 billion, and market capitalization fell by EGP 31 billion to close at EGP 3.730 trillion.

The EGX 30 index dropped by 0.68% to close at 52,007 points, the EGX 30 Equal Weight index fell by 0.57% to close at 64,096 points, the EGX 30 Total Return index declined by 0.69% to close at 24,174 points, and the EGX 35-LV index, which tracks low-volatility stocks, fell by 1.32% to close at 5,859 points.

The EGX 70 Equal Weight Index for small and medium-sized companies fell by 1.51% to close at 14,668 points, the EGX 100 Equal Weight Index fell by 1.37% to close at 20,431 points, and the Sharia Index fell by 0.17% to close at 5,720 points.

(ONA)-


The activities of Oman Sustainability Week (OSW) and the Oman Petroleum & Energy Show (OPES) 2026 commenced today at Oman Convention and Exhibition Center.

The events underscore the Sultanate of Oman’s strategic direction toward energy transition and sustainability, featuring extensive local and international participation.

The opening ceremony was held under the auspices of HH Sayyid Harib Thuwaini Al Said, Assistant Secretary-General of the Council of Ministers for Conferences at the Diwan of Royal Court.

This year, Oman Sustainability Week 2026 is held under the theme "Sustainability in Action: Innovation, Investment, Impact," highlighting the vital importance of turning sustainability ambitions into measurable outcomes through cooperation, technology, and strategic investment.

Meanwhile, Oman Petroleum & Energy Show 2026 is organized under the theme "Winning Through Collaboration: Achieving a Sustainable Energy Future," emphasizing the pivotal role of partnerships, innovation, and integrated industrial efforts in keeping pace with global transitions within the energy sector.

Eng. Salim Nasser Al Aufi, Minister of Energy and Minerals, affirmed that the Sultanate of Oman continues to consolidate its sustainability approach across various developmental sectors by implementing strategic projects and initiatives that support the energy transition and balance economic growth with environmental preservation.

In his speech, he pointed out that electricity generation from renewable energy sources reached approximately 9 percent of total electricity production last year. This coincided with the launch of the "Manah 1" and "Manah 2" solar energy projects, which possess a total production capacity of 1 gigawatt.



He explained that the Sultanate of Oman has launched the National Net-Zero Strategy and the regulatory framework for carbon markets, while completing the National Energy Transition Plan. These milestones reflect its commitment to building a low-carbon economy based on innovation and sustainability, alongside supporting green mobility plans, expanding electric vehicle usage, and enhancing waste management and utilization projects.

Furthermore, he added that Oman is pressing ahead with its efforts to develop and boost investments in the oil and gas sector, while simultaneously adopting modern technologies that contribute to reducing emissions and achieving environmental sustainability.

Moreover, he noted that the Sultanate of Oman is committed to achieving the "Zero Routine Flaring" target by 2030, noting that the sector has successfully reduced flaring operations by 50 percent to date. Renewable energy projects, water management, and green areas have also been integrated into oil and gas concession areas, thereby accelerating climate action and preserving the environment for future generations.

The opening ceremony witnessed the launch of the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Developmental Foundation for the Energy Sector, named "Rekan." It will serve as a national umbrella to integrate efforts and unify community initiatives within the energy and minerals sector, maximizing developmental and social impacts while establishing a sustainable partnership between the sector and the community.

Mohsin Hamad Al Hadrami, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Energy and Minerals and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Energy Sector CSR Developmental Foundation, emphasized that launching the institutional identity "Rekan" represents a significant milestone in the energy sector's community work. It reflects a national direction aimed at enhancing integration among sector companies to achieve a sustainable developmental impact that places people at the core of development.

He explained that the initiative originally began in 2018 through an alliance of eight companies in the oil and gas sectors, driven by a shared belief that social responsibility represents a long-term national commitment. He noted that the ministerial decision to officially establish the Energy Sector CSR Developmental Foundation has laid the groundwork for a more organized and sustainable phase grounded in governance and maximized developmental impact, aligning with the goals of Oman Vision 2040.

He revealed that over the past ten years, the foundation has executed 11 social projects with a total expenditure exceeding RO 15.5 million, covering health, education, youth empowerment, and community infrastructure. He stressed that the true value of these initiatives lies in their direct impact on improving the community's quality of life and promoting sustainable development opportunities.

He noted that "Rekan" seeks to shift from traditional support models to sustainable empowerment by executing developmental projects that address the actual needs of society. This approach strengthens the partnership and integration among energy sector institutions to achieve a broader and more sustainable impact across all governorates of the Sultanate of Oman.

For his part, Eng. Mohammed Ali Al Aghbari, Manager of External Affairs, Government Relations, and Communication at Petroleum Development Oman (PDO), stated that the wide participation of industry leaders, decision-makers, and technology pioneers in this event reflects a collective eagerness to develop practical solutions that match current requirements, balancing energy security, economic growth, and sustainability targets. He pointed out that this event serves as an effective platform to boost cooperation, exchange expertise, and attract investments, thereby shaping the future of the energy sector both in the Sultanate of Oman and the wider region.

Regarding Italian participation, Pierluigi D'Elia, Ambassador of the Republic of Italy to the Sultanate of Oman, stated that the Oman Petroleum & Energy Show and Oman Sustainability Week 2026 embody Oman’s growing role as a regional hub for strategic dialogue, innovation, and international cooperation in the energy and sustainability sectors. He noted that Italy's participation in these prominent platforms offers genuine opportunities for cooperation between Italian and Omani institutions and companies in renewable energy, circular economy solutions, sustainable infrastructure, advanced engineering, and industrial technologies.

Together, Oman Petroleum & Energy Show and Oman Sustainability Week serve as an integrated platform reflecting Oman’s strategies to enhance energy security, support sustainability, stimulate industrial growth, and solidify its position as a regional hub for dialogue, cooperation, and investment in energy and future technologies.

The event attracts widespread participation from regional and international institutions and companies operating in the energy, sustainability, infrastructure, technology, and mobility sectors, alongside the organization of field programs, technical visits, and working sessions.

The dual events feature more than 500 speakers and international experts and are expected to attract over 50,000 visitors and professionals from around the world, confirming the Sultanate of Oman's rising status as a regional platform for dialogue and decision-making in energy and sustainability.

Oman Petroleum & Energy Show and Oman Sustainability Week 2026 present a comprehensive program encompassing exhibitions, conferences, Continuing Professional Development (CPD) certified sessions, C-suite roundtables, technical workshops, investor networking forums, and field visits, creating a dynamic environment for knowledge exchange, strategic partnerships, and regional and international business development.

Oman Petroleum & Energy Show 2026 offers an advanced schedule of panel and technical sessions discussing the future of energy transition, the role of oil and gas in the global energy mix, carbon reduction strategies, and the integration of conventional and clean energy, alongside the expansion of green hydrogen and renewable energy projects in the Sultanate of Oman.

The sessions also cover advanced topics including artificial intelligence, big data analytics, industrial automation, and digital transformation in exploration and production operations, as well as predictive maintenance technologies aimed at increasing operational efficiency, reducing operational risks, and cutting emissions.

Among the prominent sessions included in the program is a panel titled "Energy Transition, Renewable Energy, and ESG Criteria," which discusses the accelerating shift toward a low-carbon economy and the requirements for building a balanced energy system that preserves energy security while supporting net-zero targets. This is accompanied by specialized sessions on power grid integration, carbon management, Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS), and the future of hybrid energy systems.

The event also hosts specialized technical presentations in cooperation with the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE), showcasing the latest innovations in upstream activities, enhanced oil recovery (EOR) technologies, well management, and industrial equipment reliability optimization, alongside sessions reviewing successful technical projects and experiences within Oman’s oil and gas sector.

The accompanying strategic sessions discuss the future of natural gas as a primary element in the global energy transition, the role of liquefied natural gas (LNG) in bolstering global energy security, and the challenges associated with market volatility, supply chains, and long-term investments in energy projects.

Additionally, the sessions touch upon the Sultanate of Oman's role in developing an integrated energy ecosystem that spans oil, gas, renewable energy, and green hydrogen, which enhances its position as a regional hub for low-carbon energy.

Highlighting the conference agenda is a core focus on CCUS projects, recognized as one of the leading technical solutions supporting the achievement of net-zero emissions. International companies are showcasing the latest innovations in carbon management, industrial emissions reduction technologies, and solutions linked to decarbonizing heavy industries and the energy sector. Discussions also cover investment opportunities in clean energy technologies alongside regulatory and legislative challenges facing global carbon markets.

Oman Sustainability Week 2026 presents a diverse program of conferences and specialized sessions discussing the future of sustainable development and the transition toward a green economy, focusing heavily on turning visions and strategies into practical projects with tangible economic and environmental impacts.

The sessions include key topics such as renewable energy, green hydrogen, water security, water desalination, the circular economy, waste management, biodiversity, climate resilience, smart infrastructure, sustainable mobility, and green finance, in addition to developing smart cities and linking technology to urban sustainability.

The program features specialized sessions discussing the future smart city, while reviewing modern urban projects such as Sultan Haitham City, and examining the role of digital infrastructure, data, and smart connectivity in building more sustainable and efficient cities.

Other sessions address the integration of energy, water, and climate change as an interconnected system requiring unified planning to ensure resource security and enhance the resilience of national infrastructure.

Oman Sustainability Week dedicates extensive sessions to the future of sustainable mobility, covering electric vehicles, charging station infrastructure, smart transport solutions, and hydrogen technologies in the transport sector. This is accompanied by a review of international experiences in reducing transport-related emissions and enhancing urban mobility system efficiency.

The events also feature exhibitions of electric vehicles and low-emission mobility solutions, alongside specialized pavilions for environmental technology, smart solutions, clean energy, and waste management and recycling technologies.

The program further tackles water security issues and natural resource management as critical future challenges. Sessions discuss low-energy-consumption desalination technologies, water reuse, and smart solutions for water network management. They also highlight the integrated relationship between water, energy, food, and climate change, and the importance of adopting resilient solutions that support resource sustainability in arid environments.

Additionally, the program includes panel discussions investigating the role of financial institutions, banks, and investment funds in financing clean energy and sustainability projects, the mechanisms of issuing green bonds, and the development of economic incentives that support the transition toward a low-carbon economy, while reviewing global market trends in sustainable investment.

Other sessions deal with the importance of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria and their growing role in enhancing corporate competitiveness and attracting international investments. These sessions outline how to integrate these criteria into the strategies of industrial and energy companies, measure the environmental and social impacts of projects, and strike a balance between economic growth and environmental sustainability.

Among the standout events of Oman Sustainability Week 2026 is the International Sustainability Resources and Technology Conference (ISRTC), organized by Oman Environmental Services Holding Company "be'ah." The conference brings together stakeholders from across the world to discuss renewable energy, hydrogen, water security, biodiversity, circular economy strategies, sustainable investment paths, and the role of innovation in fostering climate resilience and achieving sustainable development goals.

Strategic discussions during the week are led by C-suite meetings featuring a select group of leaders and decision-makers. These sessions focus on innovation, digital transformation, production growth, carbon competitiveness, cost optimization, green capital mobilization, and the commercialization of clean technologies, alongside developing policies that support industrial transition and sustainable energy.

The activities also include the organization of specialized field visits, allowing participants firsthand insight into renewable energy projects, smart infrastructure, and circular economy initiatives in the Sultanate of Oman, thereby enhancing the exchange of expertise and applied knowledge between local and international institutions.

The pavilion of the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology participating in the event witnessed the signing of two memoranda of understanding in the fields of unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) and logistics, supporting the shift toward green mobility and the reduction of carbon emissions.

(ONA)-


Khazaen Economic City signed an agreement today with Sohar Food and Beverage to expand its food and beverage factory project, with an additional investment of RO 2 million.

This step reflects the growth of industrial and food investments in the city and enhances its position as an integrated hub for food industries.

The expansion includes adding a new area estimated at 10,000 square meters, bringing the total area of the project to 25,000 square meters, while the total investment volume in the project after the expansion will reach RO 10 million.

Eng. Salim Sulaiman Al Duhli, CEO of Khazaen Economic City, stated that the food and beverage factory project is one of the investments within the Food City in Khazaen Economic City.

He noted that it specializes in establishing a factory for food and beverage production, thereby contributing to the support of national industries, strengthening the food security system, and raising the efficiency of supply chains and food manufacturing in the Sultanate of Oman.

He added that the Food City in Khazaen continues to attract qualitative projects in the food industries sector by providing an integrated investment environment and advanced infrastructure that supports the growth of local and regional investments in this vital sector.

(ONA)-


The total issuance of Government Treasury Bills amounted to RO 43.65 million. The value of the allotted Treasury bills amounted to RO 0.15 million, for a maturity period of 28 days. The average accepted price reached RO 99.750 for every RO 100, and the minimum accepted price arrived at RO 99.750 per RO 100. The average discount rate and the average yield reached 3.25893% and 3.26710%, respectively.

The value of the allotted Treasury bills amounted to RO 38 million, for a maturity period of 91 days. The average accepted price reached RO 99.042 for every RO 100, and the minimum accepted price arrived at RO 99.040 per RO 100. The average discount rate and the average yield reached 3.84422% and 3.88142%, respectively.

Meanwhile, the value of the allotted Treasury bills amounted to RO 1.5 million, for a maturity period of 182 days. The average accepted price reached RO 98.067 for every RO 100, and the minimum accepted price arrived at RO 98.065 per RO 100. The average discount rate and the average yield reached 3.87729% and 3.95373%, respectively.

Moreover, the value of the allotted Treasury bills amounted to RO 4 million, for a maturity period of 364 days. The average accepted price reached RO 96.210 for every RO 100, and the minimum accepted price arrived at RO 96.210 per RO 100. The average discount rate and the average yield reached 3.80041% and 3.95012%, respectively.

Treasury Bills are short-term highly secured financial instruments issued by the Ministry of Finance, and they provide licensed commercial banks the opportunity to invest their surplus funds. The Central Bank of Oman (CBO) acts as the Issue Manager and provides the added advantage of ready liquidity through discounting and repurchase facilities (Repo).

It may be noted that the interest rate on the Repo operations with CBO is 4.25% while the discount rate on the Treasury Bills Discounting Facility with CBO is 4.75%.

Furthermore, Treasury Bills promote the local money market by creating a benchmark yield curve for short-term interest rates. Additionally, the Government may also resort to this instrument whenever felt necessary for financing its recurrent expenditures.

(BNA)-


This week’s BD 70 million issue of Government Treasury Bills has been oversubscribed by 179%.



The bills, carrying a maturity of 91 days, are issued by the Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB), on behalf of the Government of the Kingdom of Bahrain.



The issue date of the bills is May 20, and the maturity date is August 19.



The weighted average rate of interest is 5.28% compared to 5.32% for the previous issue on May 6.



The approximate average price for the issue was 98.684% with the lowest accepted price being 98.678%.

​

This is issue No.2121 (ISIN BH00082QU198) of Government Treasury Bills. With this, the total outstanding value of Government Treasury Bills is BD 2.110 billion.

(BNA)-


Bahrain Bourse, a licensed exchange by the Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB) announced that it has appointed Arqaam Capital, a top‑tier institutionally focused financial services firm in the Middle East, with a direct presence across key MENA markets. Through a highly experienced team and scalable platform, Arqaam Capital delivers independent, in‑depth equity research grounded in global best practice and deep regional market knowledge.

Under the agreement, Arqaam Capital will produce comprehensive equity research coverage on seven selected listed companies on Bahrain Bourse, alongside a Bahrain flagship country report. Company reports will be issued on a quarterly basis and will include detailed financial analysis, valuation and investment insights, investment rationale, and analyst recommendations, while the flagship report will provide a high‑level assessment of Bahrain’s equity market, key sectors, and macroeconomic outlook.

Shaikh Khalifa bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa, Chief Executive Officer of Bahrain Bourse, commented, “This collaboration marks an important step in advancing the depth and quality of Bahrain’s capital market ecosystem. By partnering with a leading institutional research provider, we aim to strengthen market transparency, enhance investor awareness, and elevate the visibility of Bahrain-listed companies among regional and international investors. This initiative is closely aligned with our strategic objective to expand market research coverage and further supports the development of a more dynamic, accessible, and well-informed investment landscape.”

Riad Meliti, Chief Executive Officer of Arqaam Capital said: “Independent research is the foundation of credible capital markets. Bahrain Bourse’s decision to commission institutional-grade coverage sends a clear signal to the global allocator base: this is a market committed to transparency, disciplined disclosure, and the standards international capital expects. Arqaam Capital will deliver coverage that meets those standards without exception. Our objective is straightforward — to ensure that Bahrain’s listed companies are evaluated on their fundamentals by the investors best positioned to deploy capital behind them.”

Arqaam Capital will leverage its strong institutional research capabilities to deliver high‑quality, independent equity analysis, supported by deep expertise and disciplined valuation methodologies. The research will be distributed via Bahrain Bourse’s website, Arqaam Capital research platform and key global platforms to enhance market visibility and investor engagement.

Arqaam Capital research is a leading institutionally focused platform in the Middle East, recognized for its rigorous, objective, and insightful analysis. Backed by an experienced regional team and international best practices, Arqaam Capital provides in‑depth coverage for institutional investors across major regional sectors.

Company Name : Orascom Construction PLC
ISIN Code : EGS95001C011
Reuters Code : ORAS.CA
Content :
Release from the company indicates that Trojan Holdings for Construction and Orascom Construction are establishing Afrowater to develop water infrastructure projects in the region.


Release from the Company (655 KB)

Company Name : Arab Valves Company
ISIN Code : EGS3E1E1C013
Reuters Code : ARVA.CA
Content :
Release regarding the post-execution disclosure form in accordance with the provisions of Article 29 of EGX Listing Rues

The Release (351 KB)

Company Name : Orascom Construction PLC
ISIN Code : EGS95001C011
Reuters Code : ORAS.CA
Content :
Release from the company regarding the shareholding percentage of the Sustainable Capital Africa Alpha Fund.

Release from the Company in Arabic (225 KB)
Release from the Company in English (165 KB)

Company Name : Alexandria Pharmaceuticals
ISIN Code : EGS38341C011
Currency : EGP
F/S Period : From 01/07/2025 To 31/03/2026
Net Profit : 431,240,870
F/S Period: From 01/07/2024 To 31/03/2025
Net Comparative Profit : 323,414,212
Audit Status : Reviewed
Source : Alexandria Pharmaceuticals

Company Name : Alexandria Pharmaceuticals
ISIN Code : EGS38341C011
Currency : EGP
F/S Period : From 01/07/2025 To 31/03/2026
Net Profit : 431,240,870
F/S Period: From 01/07/2024 To 31/03/2025
Net Comparative Profit : 323,414,212
Audit Status : Reviewed
Source : Alexandria Pharmaceuticals

The Financial Statements in Arabic & English (6,002 KB)

Company Name : Premium Healthcare Group
ISIN Code : EGS72XL1C014
Reuters Code : PHGC.CA
Content :
The company sent its Disclosure Form for the BoD & the shareholders' structure for the period ended 31/03/2026 according to Article 30 of the Listing Rules

The Disclosure Form (1,272 KB)

(ONA)-


Acting in cooperation with the SMEs Development Authority “Riyada”, Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI) took part in the activities of the 22nd International Franchise and Retail Show held in the Republic of India on 16 and 17 May 2026. The event saw the signing of 3 franchise agreements and the opening of two branches for the Omani brand “Seven Fries” in the city of New Delhi.

Haitham bin Saif Al Habsi, owner of the brand "Bomba Burrito", signed a franchise agreement (for investment in the Republic of India) with businessman Gaurav Marya, Chairman and founder of Franchise India Group.

Saif bin Mohammed Al Riyami, owner of the brands "Shawarma & Musahab" and “Joaan”, also signed two franchise agreements for opening outlets both in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Arab Republic of Egypt. The agreements were signed with Abeer Julaih, CEO of National Franchise and Franchise International.

Meanwhile, Issa Saleh Al Aghbari, Omani entrepreneur and founder of the highly successful fast-food brand “Seven Fries”, opened two branches of the Omani brand “Seven Fries” in New Delhi, India, one for the Indian businessman Javid, and the other for brothers and businessmen Farouk and Shahrukh.

The step was the outcome of efforts on a franchise programme overseen by Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The programme aims to promote the international expansion of Omani brands.

The franchise programme supported companies in signing franchise agreements and enhancing their ability to compete in various markets. This positively influenced the growth of the businesses locally and internationally.

The Omani brands now boast an ability to expand in foreign markets, thanks to their high quality, efficiency and competitive business models. The firms also got impetus from the confidence of regional and international investors in Omani products and services.

(ONA)-


Nama Power and Water Procurement and O-Green today celebrated the signing of the award of the Power Purchase Agreement for the Continuous Renewable Energy Project, combining wind, solar and battery energy storage systems in the wilayats of Mahout and Duqm. The project has a total installed generation capacity of 2.7 gigawatts.

The signing ceremony was held under the auspices of Sultan Salim Al Habsi, Minister of Finance.



The award letter was signed on behalf of Nama Power and Water Procurement by Ahmed Salim Al Abri, Chief Executive Officer, and on behalf of O-Green by Mustafa Mohammed Al Hinai, Chief Executive Officer.

The project marks a pivotal step in the evolution of the Sultanate of Oman’s renewable energy strategy, moving from standalone solar and wind projects towards integrated clean-energy systems capable of delivering stable and reliable electricity around the clock. It also establishes a strategic platform to support the growth of energy-intensive sectors, including data centres, advanced computing, advanced industries and green fuels.



The project is considered one of the world’s largest hybrid continuous renewable energy projects, combining wind, solar and battery energy storage systems. By integrating renewable resources with advanced storage technologies, the project is designed to provide stable and reliable electricity supply on a round-the-clock basis.

The project has been designed to integrate solar photovoltaic generation, wind power and battery energy storage systems, and is expected to provide a firm supply capacity of nearly 770 megawatts. This level of reliability will pave the way for greater integration of renewable energy sources, supporting Oman’s carbon-emission reduction targets under Oman Vision 2040.

The project is also expected to strengthen the Sultanate of Oman’s position among the leading countries developing large-scale integrated renewable energy systems capable of delivering stable, clean and dispatchable power. By combining Oman’s rich renewable energy resources with advanced storage technologies, the project will help address intermittency challenges associated with solar and wind energy, while supporting wider integration of clean power into the national grid.

Mustafa Mohammed Al Hinai, Chief Executive Officer of O-Green, said:“We are pleased to sign the award of this agreement, which represents an important milestone in accelerating the implementation of continuous renewable energy projects in the Sultanate of Oman, in line with the objectives of Oman Vision 2040, which is accorded the Royal care of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik.”

He added: “This project embodies national efforts to optimise the use of Oman’s abundant renewable energy resources and transform them into practical projects that support a low-carbon economy. The agreement also reflects growing confidence in O-Green’s ability to develop integrated clean-energy solutions that combine solar power, wind power and battery energy storage systems.”



Ahmed Salim Al Abri, Chief Executive Officer of Nama Power and Water Procurement, said: “The Continuous Renewable Energy Project represents an important step in the transformation journey of Oman’s energy sector. The award of the project to a local developer also presents an integrated model that combines solar power, wind power and battery energy storage technologies to provide stable and renewable electricity supply around the clock.”

He added: “The project will contribute to enhancing the capacity of the electricity grid to accommodate more clean-energy sources, while supporting Oman’s sustainability and carbon-neutrality targets. Nama Power and Water Procurement will continue its role in enabling reliable and economically efficient power and water procurement solutions that meet the Sultanate of Oman’s growing demand.”

O-Green is a national renewable energy platform established as a strategic partnership between OQ Alternative Energy and Naqaa Sustainable Energy. The company focuses on accelerating clean-energy project delivery, enhancing energy security, maximising in-country value and building national capabilities across the renewable energy value chain.

O-Green’s scope includes the development of solar and wind energy projects, as well as the localisation of renewable energy technologies and related industries, including wind turbines and their components. The development and operation of data centres powered by clean energy also represents one of the key pillars of the company’s portfolio.

O-Green’s project portfolio exceeds 11 gigawatts of solar and wind generation projects, in addition to 4.5 gigawatt-hours of battery energy storage capacity. To date, the company has secured more than 3.3 gigawatts of generation capacity and 2.4 gigawatt-hours of storage capacity, reflecting its growing role in supporting net-zero targets and strengthening the Sultanate of Oman’s position as a clean-energy hub and catalyst for future industries across continents.

Nama Power and Water Procurement is the sole procurer of power and water capacity and output in the Sultanate of Oman. The company is responsible for ensuring the economic provision of power and water production capacity to meet the Oman’s growing demand, while supporting the development of renewable energy projects and a more sustainable power system.

(ONA)-


The official price of Oman oil for July delivery stood at USD 107.37 per barrel today.

The price recorded a rise of 62 cents, compared to USD 106.75 per barrel last Friday.

The monthly average price of Oman crude for May delivery reached USD 124.05 per barrel. This marks an increase of USD 55.90 from the April delivery price.

(ONA)-


State public revenues till the end of the first quarter of 2026 witnessed an increase of 13 percent, reaching RO 2.985 billion compared to RO 2.635 billion during the same period last year. This increase is primarily attributed to the rise in net oil revenues.

The Fiscal Performance Bulletin issued by the Ministry of Finance indicated that net oil revenues increased by 5 percent up to the end of the first quarter of 2026, recording RO 1.535 billion compared to the collection of RO 1.468 billion up to the end of the first quarter of 2025.

The average realized oil price stood at approximately USD 64 per barrel, and average daily oil production reached about 1,025,000 barrels. This is attributed to Energy Development Oman's (EDO) methodology for oil revenue collection and cash liquidity management.

The bulletin further explained that net gas revenues rose by 36 percent by the end of the first quarter of 2026, recording approximately RO 593 million compared to RO 436 million in the same period of 2025.

Moreover, the bulletin revealed that public spending up to the end of the first quarter of 2026 amounted to approximately RO 3.010 billion, an increase of RO 239 million, or 9 percent, compared to the actual spending of RO 2.771 billion during the same period in 2025.

Current revenues collected up to the end of the first quarter of 2026 decreased by 13 percent, or by approximately RO 92 million, amounting to RO 817 million compared to the collection of RO 725 million during the same period in 2025.

Meanwhile, current expenditures reached RO 2.119 billion, an increase of approximately RO 152 million compared to RO 1.967 billion at the end of the first quarter of 2025.

Furthermore, development expenditures for ministries and government civil units amounted to RO 334 million, representing a spending rate of approximately 26 percent of the total development liquidity allocated for 2026, which amounts to RO 1.300 billion.

Total contributions and other expenditures recorded approximately RO 417 million by the end of the first quarter of the current year, compared to RO 490 million during the same period in 2025.

Subsidies for the social protection system, the electricity sector, and petroleum products up to the end of the first quarter of 2026 amounted to approximately RO 154 million, RO 80 million, and RO 17 million, respectively. Additionally, transfers to the debt repayment provision item reached RO 75 million.

The bulletin showed that, by the end of the first quarter of the current year, the Ministry of Finance had paid over RO 362 million in dues to the private sector for payment vouchers received through the financial system that had completed their documentary cycles.

The bulletin also indicated that the total public debt stood at approximately RO 14.5 billion at the end of the first quarter of 2026, remaining stable at the same level recorded at the end of 2025, and reflecting a 2 percent increase compared to the RO 14.3 billion recorded at the end of the corresponding quarter in 2025.

(ONA)-


China’s domestic crude oil production increased 1.2 percent year‑on‑year in April to 17.94 million tonnes, data from the National Bureau of Statistics showed today.

Total output for the first four months of the year reached 72.74 million tonnes, up 1.3 percent from the same period in 2025.

Refinery crude throughput fell 5.8 percent in April from a year earlier to 54.65 million tonnes. Cumulative throughput from January to April 2026 stood at 238.95 million tonnes, a decline of 0.5 percent.

Natural gas production rose 1.9 percent in April year‑on‑year to 21.9 billion cubic metres. Total output from January to April 2026 reached 90 billion cubic metres, an increase of 2.7 percent.

(QNA)-


Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) has joined the Gulf Capital Market Association (GCMA) as an associate member, marking an important step towards building a more structured and competitive financial ecosystem in Qatar.
The membership was announced on the sidelines of the Asset Management Roundtable hosted by QFC, which brought together senior leaders from the asset management community to discuss key industry trends, evolving market dynamics, regional and global outlooks, and the regulatory landscape.
QFC's membership with the GCMA reinforces its commitment to advancing the investment management sector by facilitating collaboration among global and regional firms, key market actors, and regulators. The move aligns with broader national priorities to further develop and diversify the financial services sector.
Chief Executive Officer of QFC Mansoor Rashid Al Khater commented on the significance of the membership, saying: "The membership of QFC in GCMA reflects our focus on strengthening Qatar's investment landscape by collaborating closely with key local industry stakeholders and global organizations. As this sector evolves, initiatives such as this play an important role in supporting a competitive business environment and ensuring firms can operate within a more connected and forward-looking ecosystem."
GCMA President Michael Grifferty noted the strategic importance of QFC's membership, saying: "GCMA is pleased to welcome QFC as its newest member, reinforcing QFC's position as a regional hub for market innovation in line with its goal of further developing Qatar's financial industry ecosystem. We look forward to working closely with QFC and industry stakeholders to advance the asset management industry in Qatar."
This development builds on the Memorandum of Understanding signed between QFC and GCMA in February 2025 to enhance collaboration and explore the potential of establishing a Qatar-branch of the GCMA Asset Management Chapter. It also supports the development of a local investment management association, which is expected to provide a platform to represent industry perspectives, promote best practices, strengthen sector awareness, and engage with regulators on matters of shared interest.

(QNA)-


Oil prices rose in early trading on Monday, by more than 1 percent, amid developments in the Middle East conflict.

Brent crude futures climbed $1.36, or 1.24 percent, to $110.62 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate crude futures reached $107.26 a barrel, up $1.84, or 1.75 percent.

(QNA)-


The South Korean stock exchange activated a sell-side sidecar for the benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) for a second consecutive session, following its sharp decline driven by global markets, escalating inflation, and geopolitical concerns.
The KOSPI fell sharply as investors tracked declines on Wall Street last week amid rising woes over inflation caused by the deadlocked situation in the Middle East.
Opening at 0.67 percent lower, the KOSPI fell as low as 7,142.71 at one point, or more than 5 percent. Tech stocks and other major market heavyweights suffered sharp declines as investors cashed out following record-breaking rallies.
On Friday, the key stock index plunged by more than 6 percent after topping the unprecedented 8,000-point level.

According to the letter received from the CBE & ECSD on 18/05/2026, including their request to increase the issue size of Treasury Bills 16 February 2027 issued on 17/02/2026 with an additional EGP 41,970,025,000 representing the increase of the issue size, to reach 142,172,450,000 EGP (distributed over 5,686,898 bills at a par value of 25,000 EGP).
The above-mentioned increase will be added to EGX database & available for trading effective 19/05/2026 trading session.
ISIN Code: EGT9980G2R11

(QNA)-


China's retail sales of consumer goods, a major indicator of the country's consumption strength, expanded 1.9 percent year on year in the first four months of 2026.
آ During the January-April period, the total retail sales of consumer goods reached about 16.49 trillion yuan (about 2.41 trillion US dollars), according to data released by China's National Bureau of Statistics.
Excluding automobiles, retail sales grew by 3.1 percent to 15.2 trillion yuan, reflecting continued growth in domestic demand in the Chinese market.
آ Retail sales of services grew by 5.6 percent year on year in the first four months, accelerating by 0.1 percentage points from the first quarter.
Fast growth was recorded in telecommunications and information services, tourism and rental services, cultural and recreational services, as well as transportation and travel services, the data showed.
During the same period, total online retail sales of goods and services reached 6.53 trillion yuan, up 6.6 percent year on year.
Retail sales performance is a key indicator of the strength of domestic consumption in China, a major driver of growth in the world's second-largest economy.

According to the letter received from the CBE & ECSD on 18/05/2026, including their request to increase the issue size of Treasury Bills 18 August 2026 issued on 19/08/2025 with an additional EGP 29,851,850,000 representing the increase of the issue size, to reach 167,390,500,000 EGP (distributed over 6,695,620 bills at a par value of 25,000 EGP).
The above-mentioned increase will be added to EGX database & available for trading effective 19/05/2026 trading session.
ISIN Code: EGT9980I8Q12

Company Name : Premium Healthcare Group
ISIN Code : EGS72XL1C014
Reuters Code : PHGC.CA
Content :
The company sent its Disclosure Form for the BoD & the shareholders' structure for the period ended 31/03/2026 according to Article 30 of the Listing Rules.


The Disclosure Form (1,131 KB)

According to the letter received from the CBE & ECSD on 18/05/2026, including their request to increase the issue size of Treasury Bills 17 November 2026 issued on 18/11/2025 with an additional EGP 45,097,675,000 representing the increase of the issue size, to reach 145,308,550,000 EGP (distributed over 5,812,342 bills at a par value of 25,000 EGP).
The above-mentioned increase will be added to EGX database & available for trading effective 19/05/2026 trading session.
ISIN Code: EGT9980HBQ14

According to the letter received from the CBE & ECSD on '18'/05'/2026, including their request to add this issue of Treasury Bills 18 May 2027 issued on 19/05/2026 amounted to EGP 52,441,950,000 distributed over 2,097,678 bills at a par value of 25,000 EGP To The EGX trading system with a discount rate of 24.459%
The above-mentioned issue will be added to EGX database & available for trading effective 19/05/2026 trading session.
ISIN Code:EGT9980I5R14

(QNA)-


The State of Qatar, represented by the National Anti-Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing Committee (NAMLC) and the Qatar Financial Information Unit (QFIU), participated in the 42nd Plenary of the Middle East and North Africa Financial Action Task Force (MENAFATF), which was held in the capital, Rabat, the Kingdom of Morocco, with the participation of delegations from member countries and relevant regional and international organizations.

The delegation of the State of Qatar included the Head of QFIU and member of NAMLC Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad bin Mubarak Al-Thani and NAMLC Secretary Mohammed Sareea Rashid Al Kaabi, in addition to a number of experts and participants.

The Plenary discussed a number of technical and strategic topics related to enhancing the Anti-Money Laundering (AML), Combating the Financing of Terrorism (CFT), and Countering Proliferation Financing (CPF) system, most notably enhanced follow-up reports, preparations for the third round of mutual evaluations, as well as exchanging experiences and expertise among member countries, discussing MENAFATF’s action plans, and cooperating with relevant regional and international organizations and centers.

A number of decisions and recommendations adopted at the Plenary aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of national systems in member countries and supporting regional efforts to address emerging threats and risks related to money laundering (ML), terrorist financing (TF), and proliferation financing (PF) crimes, in accordance with international standards and relevant best practices.

Prior to the Plenary, remote meetings of the working groups, committees, and forums affiliated with MENAFATF were held to discuss the technical topics listed on the agenda of the Plenary and to raise the relevant recommendations.

The State of Qatar's participation lies within the framework of its continuous keenness to support the efforts of the MENAFATF and to enhance regional and international cooperation, contributing to the development of the national system and its alignment with international standards issued by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), in addition to enhancing the effectiveness of national measures in combating ML, TF, and PF crimes.

(QNA)-


Gold prices steadied on Monday, as investors ‌bought the metal after it slipped to a more than 1-1/2-month low following inflation fears that triggered a rout in the global bond market.
Spot gold was steady at $4,536.45 per ounce, after hitting its lowest level since March 30 earlier in ​the session.
US gold futures for June delivery lost 0.5% to $4,539.90.
Spot silver fell 1.3% to $74.98 per ounce, platinum lost 0.5% to $1,963.88, and palladium dropped 1.2% at $1,396.14.

(QNA)-


Qatar's Consumer Price Index (CPI) for April 2026 stood at 110.61 points, recording a decline of 0.74% compared to March 2026, while rising by 2.62% year-on-year compared to April 2025.

The index, which measures inflation, comprises 12 main groups covering 737 goods and services. It is calculated based on the 2018 base year, using data derived from the 2017-2018 Household Income and Expenditure Survey.

Data released by the National Planning Council attributed the monthly decline to decreases in "recreation and culture" group by 6.19%, "transport" group by 0.88%, "clothing and footwear" group by 0.61%, "miscellaneous goods and services" group by 0.18%, and "health" group by 0.10%.

On the other hand, some groups recorded increases, including "food and beverages" by 1.48%, "housing, water, electricity, gas and other fuels" by 0.13%, "furniture and household equipment" by 0.12%, and "restaurants and hotels" by 0.07%. No change was recorded in "tobacco", "communications", and "education".

On a yearly basis, the data showed increases in eight groups: "miscellaneous goods and services" by 13.82%, "food and beverages" by 10.41%, "clothing and footwear" by 4.71%, "education" by 2.09%, "housing, water, electricity, gas and other fuels" by 1.62%, "restaurants and hotels" by 0.90%, "furniture and household equipment" by 0.81%, and "communications" by 0.75%.

In contrast, the index recorded declines in "recreation and culture" group by 3.18%, "transport group by 0.55%, and "health" group by 0.09%, while "tobacco" group remained unchanged.

When calculating the CPI for April 2026 excluding the "housing, water, electricity, gas and other fuels" group, the index stood at 115.39 points, down 0.92% compared to March 2026, and up 2.84% compared to April 2025.

(QNA)-


Qatar Tourism, in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior (MOI) and Hamad International Airport (HIA), has launched a service excellence training program for immigration officers working across Qatar's key entry points, reinforcing ongoing efforts to deliver a seamless and welcoming arrival experience for visitors.
In a statement on Monday, Qatar Tourism said the program, with sessions continuing through to the end of October 2026, focuses on enhancing customer service capabilities and communication skills among frontline immigration officers, helping to ensure visitors receive a positive first impression that reflects Qatar's hospitality values.
The initiative forms part of Qatar Tourism's broader strategy to enhance service excellence across visitor touchpoints and strengthen Qatar's position as a leading global tourism destination.
Building on the collaboration established with the Ministry of Interior Training Institute in 2023, the program expands ongoing service excellence training efforts for immigration and police personnel, including additional sessions delivered in early 2025 for 66 police officers across both male and female institutes.
Chief of the Tourism Development Sector at Qatar Tourism, Omar Al Jaber, said: "The visitor journey begins at the country's entry points, making these interactions an important part of the overall destination experience."
"Through this collaboration with the Ministry of Interior and Hamad International Airport, we are continuing to build on Qatar's service excellence standards by further enhancing the capabilities of frontline personnel and reinforcing the welcoming spirit that reflects Qatar's hospitality values," Al Jaber added.
The Service Excellence Training program complements Qatar Tourism's wider portfolio of capability-building initiatives, including the Qatar Host Training Program, the Spirit of Hospitality in-person training program, the Qatar Specialist e-learning platform, and the Service Excellence Academy initiatives.
The Service Excellence Academy also delivers a range of specialized initiatives, including the Tour Guide Training Program and the Desert Safari Tour Guide Program, both of which have witnessed strong participation. Additional initiatives include the Summer Camp for children, which offers engaging educational experience during the holiday period, as well as The Art of Front Office Hospitality program, designed to further elevate guest engagement and service standards across the sector.
Through the Service Excellence Academy, Qatar Tourism continues to develop specialized training programs aimed at enhancing service standards across the tourism and hospitality sector, while equipping frontline personnel with the skills required to deliver high-quality visitor experiences. (

(QNA)-


Kuwait Bourse closed trading on Monday as the All Share Index lost 17.68آ points to reach 8,681.09آ points, a decrease of 0.20آ percent.آ
As many as 419.6آ million shares valued at KWD 94.2آ million (roughly USD 306.9آ million) were traded via 22,523آ transactions.آ
The Main Market Index went up by 54.20آ points to reach 8,541.47آ points, up by 0.64آ percent, through 246.3آ million shares done via 12,358آ transactions valued at KWD 36 million (roughly USD 117.5 million).آ
The Premier Market Index lost 33.88آ points to reach 9,161.30آ points, down by 0.37آ percent, through 173.3آ million shares done via 10,165آ transactions valued at KWD 58.2آ million (roughly USD 190آ million).آ
Meanwhile, the Bourse Main 50 Index gained 143.23آ points to reach 9,526.04آ points, up by 1.53آ percent, through stock volume of 177آ million shares done in 8,706آ deals at a value of KWD 26.9آ million (roughly USD 87.8آ million).

(QNA)-


Qatar Airways and Philippine Airlines have expanded their strategic partnership to enhance connectivity across both carriers' networks and offer travelers access to more than 40 destinations.
In a statement on Monday, Qatar Airways said that starting June 1, 2026, Philippine Airlines will place its (PR) code on Qatar Airways flights from Manila, Cebu, Clark, and Davao to Doha, and connect to over 20 major European cities, including Paris, Rome, and Frankfurt via Hamad International Airport.
Qatar Airways will place its (QR) code on Philippine Airlines' domestic flights, enabling travelers arriving in Manila and Cebu to enjoy a seamless connectivity to popular leisure destinations including Caticlan and Puerto Princesa.
Complementing the codeshare expansion, Qatar Airways' loyalty program, Privilege Club, has partnered with Philippine Airlines' Mabuhay Miles to extend loyalty benefits to members of both programs.
This marks Privilege Club's 26th airline partnership and increases the loyalty program's footprint in South East Asia.
Qatar Airways, named the World's Best Airline by Skytrax in 2025, also received the Platinum performance recognition this year by Cirium, the leading aviation analytics organization, for its reliability and operational performance. The recognition is a testament to Qatar Airways' unwavering commitment to providing seamless and proven operations as part of its award-winning passenger experience.
Philippine Airlines has been recognized by Cirium as Asia-Pacific's Most Punctual Airline for 2025, underscoring its focus on operational reliability. Philippine Airlines continues to strengthen its capabilities through sustained investments in network efficiency and fleet readiness to deliver consistent and reliable service.

(QNA)-


The Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE) index closed Monday's trading session down by 112.07 points, or 1.07%, to settle at 10,372.10 points.
A total of 164,627,830 shares were traded during the session, with a total value of QR 409,767,541.358 through 26,730 transactions across all sectors.
Shares of six companies advanced during the session, while shares of 44 companies declined and three companies closed unchanged.
Market capitalization at the close of trading stood at QR 619,536,567,726.968, compared to QR 626,090,291,623.320 in the previous session.

(QNA)-


Business leaders from Qatar and Pakistan have called for closer economic cooperation and expanded investment partnerships during the first meeting of the Qatar-Pakistan Joint Business Council, held virtually on Monday.
The meeting brought together Mohammed bin Ahmed Al Obaidly, board member of Qatar Chamber and head of the Qatari side of the council, alongside Zaki Aijaz, Vice-President of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry, and Mehmood Arshad, head of the Pakistani side of the council.
Speaking during the session, Al Obaidly described the joint council as an important platform for identifying new investment opportunities and strengthening partnerships between private sector companies in both countries.
He said Qatar Chamber was committed to supporting broader trade and investment cooperation between the two business communities, highlighting the strength of economic ties and growing trade exchange between Qatar and Pakistan.
Al Obaidly added that Pakistan represented an important strategic economic partner for Qatar because of its promising market, skilled workforce and diverse investment opportunities, while Qatar offered an attractive environment for investors.
For his part, Aijaz said the joint council would play a significant role in enhancing cooperation between Pakistani and Qatari businesses. He praised the ongoing collaboration between the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry and Qatar Chamber, which he said had helped activate the council.
He also highlighted investment opportunities in Pakistan across sectors including agriculture, food security, tourism, logistics, manufacturing and infrastructure, encouraging Qatari investors to explore opportunities in the country.
Meanwhile, Arshad stressed the importance of the private sector in advancing economic and trade relations between the two countries.
He said the council would help strengthen communication between business leaders on both sides, while showcasing opportunities for investment and partnership that could increase bilateral trade and support new commercial alliances serving mutual interests.

(WAM)-


As part of efforts to complete major water projects in record time across Sharjah, Sharjah Electricity, Water and Gas Authority (SEWA) is intensifying work on a major water network extension project in Al Shnouf 2 and 3, covering a total length of 29 kilometres at a cost exceeding AED12 million.

SEWA has achieved advanced progress in the project, with the completion rate reaching 40 % so far.

The project forms part of SEWA’s strategic plan to strengthen infrastructure and provide water services to new residential areas across the emirate, as the full completion is scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2026.

Engineer Faisal Al Sarkal, Director of the Water Department at SEWA, confirmed that the authority is continuing to implement water network development projects and extend main water lines across various areas of the Emirate of Sharjah. He said the projects are being carried out to provide all essential services to citizens and residents.

Al Sarkal explained that the Al Shnouf project is considered one of SEWA’s priority projects and includes the extension of main and sub-water pipelines of various sizes to serve all residential plots in the area, in addition to the installation of valves and advanced control systems.

He added that the new water networks and pipelines are being implemented according to the highest technical standards and specifications, using materials compliant with drinking water standards to ensure service continuity, efficiency, and high-quality performance.

He also noted that the projects are being supervised by engineers from the emirate.

(WAM)-


Etihad Credit Bureau, the UAE’s federal entity for credit information, has launched a new Tenant Screening solution which enables private landlords to securely request the credit score of prospective tenants. The information is only shared once tenants accept through their UAE PASS.

Etihad Credit Bureau is among the first entities to use the UAE PASS as a secure consent channel and this service was initially announced and previewed by the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) and Digital Dubai at GITEX 2025 before launching via the Etihad Bureau mobile app in April 2026. The launch represents a key milestone in the ongoing collaboration between Etihad Credit Bureau, the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) and Digital Dubai to deliver integrated digital solutions that support market needs and are aligned to national objectives for zero-bureaucracy and digital transformation.

In introducing Tenant Screening to the UAE, Etihad Bureau complements its existing Cheque Clearance Indicator feature, which has also been enhanced with AI to allow any cheque recipient to scan and assess its likelihood to be cleared – linked to the issuer’s credit registry records. Together, these solutions will further boost confidence across real estate transactions.

Commenting on the launch, Marwan Ahmad Lutfi, Director General of Etihad Credit Bureau, said, “Tenant Screening is an excellent example of the positive outcomes that result from close collaboration with our strategic partners in government and the private sector to deliver digital services that are practical, easy to use, and aligned with market needs. By integrating the sharing of trusted credit data through the well-established UAE PASS platform, along with enhancing cheque scanning with AI, we continue to boost transparency and confidence with new use cases in key sectors.”

Hamad Obaid Al Mansoori, Director-General of Digital Dubai, said, “UAE PASS has evolved into a cornerstone of the UAE’s digital trust infrastructure, extending beyond digital identity to enable secure consent management and trusted data exchange.

"Our collaboration with Etihad Credit Bureau reflects a strategic step toward activating a responsible data economy, empowering individuals with control over their data while enabling its use to deliver more transparent, efficient, and user-centric services.

"This integration demonstrates how unified digital infrastructure can unlock new service models that connect key sectors, enhance confidence in digital transactions, and reinforce a seamlessly integrated government ecosystem. It is particularly impactful in vital sectors such as real estate, where trust, speed, and transparency are essential.”

Eng. Majed Sultan Al Mesmar, Director-General of the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA), said, "This initiative reflects the critical role of integrating national digital infrastructure with financial and credit services to develop advanced digital solutions that drive transaction efficiency and strengthen trust and transparency in the real estate sector. Leveraging UAE PASS as a secure consent management platform is in line with the UAE's vision of building an interconnected digital ecosystem that enables trusted data exchange and empowers individuals and institutions to access seamless, efficient services. This collaboration between government entities and the financial sector further underscores the UAE's commitment to advancing innovative digital business models that support the digital economy and advance the goals of digital transformation, digital governance, and the UAE’s future vision."

Etihad Credit Bureau will now continue to evolve the Tenant Screening service in collaboration with the real estate sector and also launch new use cases that leverage the UAE PASS consent-based data sharing capability.

(WAM)-


Exemplifying Dubai’s remarkable readiness and agility in responding to developments impacting regional and global trade flows, Dubai Customs announced exceptional results and highlighted notable successes achieved by its ‘Green Corridor’ initiative since its activation last March in cooperation with Oman Customs.

Since its launch, the initiative has helped ensure uninterrupted trade flows, bolstering supply chain resilience, and supporting business continuity, while also supporting market stability and safeguarding local food security.

Developed in close collaboration with customers and strategic partners, the initiative introduced a package of proactive customs solutions and trade facilitation measures designed to sustain the flow of goods via land routes between the UAE and Oman, thus enabling safe alternative channels for regional and international commerce.

Dubai Customs released key metrics for the Green Corridor for the period between March and April 2026, reflecting the immediate success of the initiative and the significant growth in shipment volumes and cargo value moving through alternative routes since its activation. The number of customs declarations processed through the corridor increased sharply during the period, while the total value of goods, including insurance and freight costs, rose substantially, demonstrating the effectiveness of Dubai’s rapid-response trade solutions.

Customs declarations processed through the corridor rose from 12,000 in March 2026 to nearly 100,000 in April 2026. Meanwhile, the value of goods transported rose from AED1 billion to more than AED8 billion.

These figures underscore Dubai Customs’ ability to deploy proactive and highly efficient solutions that stabilise supply chains, support business continuity, strengthen market resilience, and safeguard food security — further cementing Dubai’s position as a globally connected trade and logistics hub with exceptional operational flexibility.

Operationalised barely 72 hours after the regional disruptions started impacting key shipping routes, the Green Corridor was launched at a time when global supply chains came under intense pressure due to regional developments that directly impacted shipping and traditional trade routes, the initiative played a pivotal role in sustaining regional and international trade flows, easing operational pressures on companies and supporting market stability.

The ‘Green Corridor’ quickly emerged as a vital trade artery, redirecting global shipments arriving through Oman and transporting them overland to Dubai via the Hatta Border Crossing under streamlined and accelerated customs procedures.

The corridor allows for expeditious clearance of containers destined for Jebel Ali Port, goods entering the local market, and re-export shipments moving from Dubai to international destinations.

Unified customs procedures and advanced monitoring systems using customs seals enabled businesses to operate with greater flexibility while maintaining the highest standards of security and efficiency.

The initiative underscores Dubai’s ability to transform challenges into opportunities, further reinforcing its position as one of the world’s leading trade and logistics hubs capable of sustaining uninterrupted commercial activity under changing conditions.

It also highlights the emirate’s preparedness and resilience in supporting international markets and global supply chains, strengthening the competitiveness of Dubai’s economy and its strategic role in connecting world trade.

The rapid success of the Green Corridor reflects a comprehensive strategic approach built on flexibility, fast decision-making, and close coordination between government entities and the private sector.

The system relies on transporting containers and shipments in sealed trucks under full customs supervision throughout transit, ensuring both security and operational efficiency.

Advanced digital integration between Dubai Customs’ smart systems — supported by pre-arrival cargo data, manifests, bills of lading, and advanced inspection technologies — enabled customs teams to accelerate clearance and verification procedures without compromising shipment safety or procedural integrity.

The facilitation measures also covered shipments to Jebel Ali Port and the Jebel Ali Free Zone via the ports of Fujairah and Khorfakkan. Containers were permitted to move directly overland to Dubai immediately upon arrival, eliminating the need to complete standard customs clearance procedures at those ports and significantly reducing processing times for companies.

In response to customer feedback and operational requirements, Dubai Customs also extended the transit period for goods from 30 days to 90 days, providing businesses with greater flexibility to reorganise logistics operations and adapt to evolving regional conditions.

The initiative further demonstrates Dubai’s ability to respond with confidence and speed to emerging challenges, transforming exceptional circumstances into opportunities that strengthen supply chain resilience and reinforce the emirate’s role as a global trade and logistics hub connecting regional and international markets.

Dr. Abdulla Busenad, Director-General of Dubai Customs, said the Green Corridor reflects Dubai’s proactive and flexible approach to managing regional and international developments through an integrated framework that supports economic sustainability, strengthens the business community, and ensures the uninterrupted flow of trade under all circumstances. He added that the Green Corridor is a vital trade artery that reflects Dubai’s readiness, speed of response, and ability to transform challenges into opportunities that support economic growth.

Dr. Busenad said that Dubai continues to enhance its government services and procedures in line with global developments and challenges, reinforcing its preparedness and position as a global model for innovation and rapid response. “In line with Dubai’s vision, Dubai Customs worked closely with relevant entities to develop an advanced operational model that enhances efficiency, safeguards trade continuity, and reinforces business confidence in our ability to support companies under all circumstances,” he said.

He added that trade resilience remains a fundamental pillar of economic growth, noting that the corridor was designed to be both secure and efficient while leveraging the expertise of strategic partners to ensure operations are executed to the highest standards of quality and efficiency.

Dr. Busenad said the Green Corridor provides a practical model for future regional integration frameworks by connecting markets and strengthening logistics resilience through alternative trade routes capable of maintaining cargo flows during emergencies affecting traditional shipping lanes.

He noted that the initiative reinforces investor confidence in Dubai’s business environment by demonstrating the ability of government entities to respond rapidly and implement effective solutions that preserve competitiveness and operational continuity.

During the regional disruptions, Dubai Customs also demonstrated a leading model of collaboration with the business community by engaging directly with companies and economic sectors, listening to operational feedback, and translating recommendations into practical solutions within a remarkably short timeframe.

As part of these efforts, Dubai Customs organised a series of interactive workshops that provided an open platform for dialogue and knowledge exchange among government entities, logistics partners, and business representatives. The workshops focused on operational challenges and explored innovative solutions to support trade continuity and improve supply chain efficiency.

Discussions covered the impact of global developments on shipping routes, insurance costs, port congestion, and customs readiness, while also introducing a package of initiatives developed within a short period — including the activation of the Green Corridor, enhancement of alternative routes linking Fujairah, Khorfakkan, and Dubai, extension of transit periods, and strengthened coordination with relevant entities to ensure uninterrupted cargo movement and rapid operational response.

(WAM)-


The United Arab Emirates continues to reinforce its position as one of the world’s most attractive destinations for company formation and entrepreneurship, driven by an advanced legislative and regulatory framework, sophisticated digital and logistics infrastructure, and flexible economic policies that have enhanced its ability to attract talent, investments and startups, enabling it to compete with the world’s largest and most advanced economies.

Specialists and company executives told the Emirates News Agency (WAM) that the UAE’s continued leadership in international indicators related to business formation and entrepreneurship reflects the success of its economic model in building an integrated ecosystem that combines all the requirements for success.

Diana Cichy, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of CICHE International Trade & Investment, specialising in international trade, said the UAE is among the world’s most attractive destinations for business and startups, thanks to its strategic location linking Europe, Asia and Africa, in addition to its advanced infrastructure and flexible regulatory environment that supports growth and international expansion.

She added that the country’s geographic location provides access to billions of consumers within a single flight range, while its expanding air connectivity network strengthens the UAE’s position as a global hub for business and trade.

She noted that free zones, full foreign ownership, ease of company establishment, and golden residency visas for investors, entrepreneurs and talented individuals have enhanced the country’s attractiveness for talent and investment.

Cichy affirmed that the UAE possesses a unique strength as a multicultural environment hosting around 200 nationalities, making it more than just a business hub and transforming it into an integrated platform for global connectivity.

She pointed out that the government’s direction towards transforming 50 percent of government services through artificial intelligence, alongside efforts to make the private sector more prepared in this field, reflects an ongoing forward-looking vision.

For his part, Willem van Wyk, Managing Director of HDI Global's Dubai office, said the UAE has consolidated its position as an attractive destination for startups, entrepreneurs and innovation-driven companies thanks to its advanced regulatory frameworks, sophisticated digital infrastructure and continuous focus on innovation.

He added that this momentum has strengthened the UAE’s status as a leading fintech hub through a model that balances accelerated innovation with strong regulatory frameworks, supported by an advanced ecosystem led by entities such as the Central Bank of the UAE, Dubai International Financial Centre and Abu Dhabi Global Market.

Van Wyk explained that growth in the sector is no longer measured solely by new technologies or investment volumes, but by the ability of ecosystems to scale securely and sustainably, especially amid the rapid rise of embedded finance, artificial intelligence and open finance models.

He stressed that the UAE possesses the capabilities that qualify it to lead the growth of this sector and contribute to shaping the resilience of digital ecosystems globally.

Meanwhile, Aaqib Gadit, Founding Partner at Disrupt.com, which specialises in building ventures and technology companies, said the UAE today represents one of the world’s leading hubs for launching startups into international markets thanks to a comprehensive business environment that combines advanced infrastructure, flexible policies, capital availability and access to global markets.

He added that the decision to establish operations in the UAE rather than global hubs such as San Francisco or London was based on clear practical foundations, noting that the country has successfully removed barriers related to the core pillars of company building, namely infrastructure, policies, capital and market access.

He pointed out that the UAE was among only four countries globally to achieve or exceed the required threshold across all conditions of the entrepreneurship ecosystem index.

Gadit affirmed that the UAE has provided startups with an enabling environment to transform ambitions into tangible international achievements by removing numerous barriers, particularly through allowing full foreign ownership in most sectors, offering tax exemptions for eligible small businesses, and ensuring free movement of capital.

International reports have shown that the UAE has succeeded in building a comprehensive business environment that supports the establishment of new ventures and accelerates their growth and global expansion.

Government institutions across all sectors, including ministries and departments, also support entrepreneurs and innovators through a range of initiatives aimed at promoting innovation and entrepreneurship.

In this context, the Emirates Growth Fund was designed to enable Emirati companies to expand across four main sectors: manufacturing, food and agriculture, healthcare and advanced technology.

The Khalifa Fund also contributes to enhancing the capabilities of entrepreneurs and small and medium-sized enterprises through capacity-building, financing and services, facilitating communication between relevant entities and business owners, and promoting the culture of entrepreneurship.

Hub71 supports promising startups in accelerating their growth journeys by connecting them with investors and partners to facilitate investments and business deals, while offering a range of programmes and incentives that enable startups to grow across different stages of development.

The Mohammed bin Rashid Innovation Fund was also designed to support entrepreneurs and innovators in overcoming challenges by offering programmes tailored to meet the diverse needs of innovators.

At the end of April, Dubai Entrepreneurs Campus, the joint initiative between Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism and Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, announced the successful completion of the first phase of its business accelerator programmes, which contributed to presenting a new practical model that accelerates the transformation of innovative ideas into successful and implementable projects.

The UAE topped the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor Report 2025-2026 for the fifth consecutive year, outperforming many advanced economies, and was ranked among the top five countries globally for the ability of its startups to access international markets.

In the same context, the StartupBlink Global Startup Ecosystem Index ranked the UAE among the top five global business environments and first regionally

(WAM)-


Ajman Chamber has launched the Industrial Facilities Visitation Programme to empower national industry and strengthen effective cooperation between the public and private sectors, in cooperation with the Ajman Department of Finance and the Ajman Transport Authority.

The initiative aims to enhance integration between government entities and national factories by providing government bodies with direct insight into the advanced quality, efficiency and innovation of Ajman’s industrial products.

The initiative also seeks to highlight the advanced production capabilities of national factories to enhance their competitiveness and increase their inclusion within the government procurement system. It additionally offers procurement specialists a direct opportunity to review the standards of quality and excellence adopted by industrial facilities and assess their alignment with government requirements.

The chamber launched the programme with a visit to Al Rahi Foodstuff Factory. The delegation included Jamila Al Nuaimi, Director of Relations and Members Support Department, and Abdullah Abdul Mohsen Al Nuaimi, Director of Government Communication at Ajman Chamber, alongside procurement officials from various government entities in Ajman.

During the visit, the delegation toured the production lines, reviewed the technologies used and assessed product quality. Discussions also covered opportunities for direct cooperation and ways to strengthen the presence of the factory’s products within the government procurement framework.

Jamila Al Nuaimi said the programme aims to organise a series of direct field visits to leading national factories in Ajman to support them, enhance their competitiveness in the local market and enable them to secure a greater share of government procurement contracts.

Abdullah Al Nuaimi said the visitation programme aligns with the objectives of the Make it in the Emirates initiative, a national strategic initiative aimed at strengthening the industrial sector and increasing its contribution to the national economy.

He added that the programme provides a dynamic platform for national factories to showcase their production capabilities and establish direct partnerships that strengthen their position in the local market.

(WAM)-


China's value-added industrial output increased by 5.6 percent year-on-year in the first four months of 2026, official data showed on Monday.

In April alone, industrial output grew 4.1 percent year-on-year, and rose 0.05 percent compared to the previous month, according to data released by the National Bureau of Statistics.

The industrial output is used to measure the activity of large enterprises each with an annual main business turnover of at least 20 million yuan ($2.92 million).

In terms of sectors, the value added output of the mining sector increased by 5.5 percent year-on-year in the first four months of the year, while that of the manufacturing sector grew by 5.8 percent. The value-added output of the electricity, heat, gas and water production and supply sectors went up by 4.5 percent, the data showed.

(WAM)-


Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) Free Zone has announced its full-year results for 2025, reflecting continued growth across its business ecosystem and reinforcing its position as one of the UAE’s leading Free Zones.

Driven by strong growth in new licence issuance, high renewal rate, and an increasingly diverse business community, the Free Zone delivered robust performance across all key indicators during the year.

The number of new licences issued reached 850 in 2025, representing a 41 percent year-on-year increase and reflecting continued confidence in DWTC Free Zone as a destination for business set-up and growth.

Licence renewals remained strong at 1,822, supported by a 96 percent renewal rate that underscores sustained confidence among existing tenants. As of December 2025, the total number of active companies within the Free Zone exceeded 2,500.

The Free Zone's workforce continued to expand in 2025, with the number of active employee visas increasing 20 percent year-on-year to over 8,000.

The diversity of the business community also strengthened significantly with nationalities represented across Free Zone companies increasing from 107 to 148 - a 38 percent increase - reflecting the growing appeal of DWTC Free Zone among internationally-focused businesses seeking to establish and scale from Dubai's Central Business District.

Abdalla Al Banna, VP of Free Zone Regulatory Operations at DWTC, said, "The 2025 results reflect the continued growth and diversity of the business community choosing DWTC Free Zone as its base in Dubai. From global brands to emerging technology and virtual assets companies, the breadth of businesses operating within the Free Zone highlights the strength of our ecosystem.

"Supported by Dubai’s resilient and forward-looking business environment, we remain focused on enabling companies to establish and scale within a globally connected and future-focused destination."

Growth in 2025 was driven by three key sectors: sports and entertainment, virtual assets, and AI-focused professional services, reflecting the continued evolution of Dubai’s innovation and technology ecosystem. The sports and entertainment sector saw particular growth momentum following DWTC Free Zone becoming home to the International Sports and Entertainment Free Zone cluster (ISEZA) alongside the presence of the Sport Integrity Global Alliance (SIGA).

Notable companies establishing a presence within the Free Zone during 2025 included Louis Vuitton, KPMG, Baker Tilly, Deutsche Messe, and the Sport Integrity Global Alliance (SIGA).

The Free Zone also expanded its flexible workspace offering during the year with the addition of Sentinel Business Centre and BizElite, complementing its existing premium commercial ecosystem across One Central, Sheikh Rashid Tower, Convention Tower and One Za'abeel.

DWTC Free Zone continues to differentiate itself through its integration with the region's leading events and business ecosystem, alongside a progressive regulatory environment, designed to support growth-oriented companies. Its offering spans over 1,200 licensed business activities, with key benefits including 100 percent foreign ownership, 0 percent personal income tax, 100 percent capital and profit repatriation, and dual licensing options.

Additionally, the Free Zone introduced the innovative Multiple Share Class Framework to support next-generation enterprises and enhance corporate structuring flexibility.

The Free Zone’s strong 2025 performance also aligns with the ambitions of Dubai’s Economic Agenda (D33), which aims to further strengthen the emirate’s position as a leading global business destination.

(WAM)-


BHM Capital announced its financial results for the first quarter ended 31st March 2026, delivering strong double-digit growth across key financial and operational indicators, reinforcing its position as a leading institution in the UAE capital markets sector.

The company reported total revenue of AED61.9 million, representing a 38 percent increase year-on-year, while net profit reached AED13.8 million, marking a 22 percent increase year-on-year.

Shareholders’ equity stood at AED523 million, reflecting a 3 percent increase compared to year-end 2025.

Operationally, BHM Capital continued to strengthen its market leadership, opening 18,484 new accounts across the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) and Dubai Financial Market (DFM) during the quarter. This performance translates to a 42 percent share of all new accounts opened across both markets.

Sheikh Dr. Ammar bin Nasser Almualla, Chairman of BHM Capital, said that BHM Capital’s performance in the first quarter of 2026 reflects both the strength of its strategic direction and the resilience of the UAE’s capital markets.

"Despite regional challenges, the UAE continues to demonstrate economic stability and institutional maturity, reinforcing its position as one of the world’s most dynamic and resilient financial hubs. We remain committed to supporting the continued advancement of UAE capital markets, enhancing investor accessibility, and contributing to sustainable economic growth," he said.

Abdelhadi Al Sa’di, Chief Executive Officer of BHM Capital, stated, “Our Q1 results demonstrate continued momentum across our core business lines, with consistent growth in both revenue and profitability. Capturing 42 percent of all new accounts across ADX and DFM reflects the trust placed in BHM Capital by investors and our ability to deliver a seamless and highly scalable digital onboarding experience.”

(WAM)-


Investcorp Capital (ICAP), an Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) listed alternative investment company founded by the Investcorp Holdings B.S.C. (c ) group (Investcorp), today announced the acquisition of a diversified US industrial real estate portfolio with an aggregate value of more than $200 million, comprised of 19 industrial properties totaling approximately 1.4 million square feet across Dallas–Fort Worth, Chicago, Indianapolis and Cincinnati.

The portfolio is approximately 97 percent occupied and leased to a diversified tenant base spanning light manufacturing, logistics, wholesale distribution, industrial services and consumer-related businesses.

The assets include: 13 buildings spanning approximately 1 million square feet in Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas; four properties totaling approximately 286,000 square feet in Chicago, Illinois; one property comprising approximately 130,000 square feet in Indianapolis, Indiana; and one fully occupied 44,000-square-foot property in Cincinnati, Ohio.

(WAM)-


AD Ports Group has awarded three major contracts for the design and construction of marine and landside infrastructure, and the sourcing of crane equipment, for the Noatum Ports Pointe-Noire Terminal in the Republic of the Congo.

The container terminal is being developed under AD Ports Group’s majority-owned joint venture with the CMA CGM Group, through its subsidiary CMA Terminals, following an agreement signed between the two parties in February 2025.

The contract awards, with a combined value of approximately AED735 million (US$200 million), mark a milestone in the development of the new container terminal, which is being delivered under AD Ports Group’s 30-year concession agreement with the Government of the Republic of the Congo, extendable by a further 20 years.

The awards include two contracts for marine works and topside works valued at approximately AED551 million ($150 million) to MAR CONTRACTING SARLU and MBTP SA JV, in addition to an AED184 million ($50 million) contract for three ship-to-shore (STS) cranes and nine rubber-tyred gantry (RTG) cranes awarded to Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industries Co. Ltd. (ZPMC).

The container terminal will initially include a quay wall of approximately 420 metres in length and 16 metres in depth, capable of accommodating Patagonia-class vessels, alongside a 100,000 sqm logistics area.

Under its concession agreement with the Congolese government, the Group has the right to develop additional multipurpose cargo capabilities, to be evaluated in line with evolving business demand.

Mohamed Eidha AlMenhali, Regional CEO of AD Ports Group, said that these contract awards mark a significant step towards delivering a modern and future-ready container terminal at the Port of Pointe-Noire, in partnership with CMA Terminals. This development reflects AD Ports Group’s long-term commitment to investing in high-growth markets and developing integrated maritime and logistics infrastructure that strengthens regional trade connectivity.

"This strategic investment will not only enhance port capacity, but also to create lasting value for Congolese communities through job creation, skills development, and stronger integration into global trade," he said.

AlMenhali added that this development will also support economic diversification, attract leading global shipping lines, and deliver sustainable value for the Republic of the Congo and the wider region, in line with the vision of our wise leadership in the UAE.

The foundational contracts advance the development of the new container terminal at the Port of Pointe-Noire, enhancing its capacity to handle larger vessels and higher annual throughput, which further reinforces its role as a regional trade gateway serving Central and West Africa. Construction is expected to be completed in approximately two years.

Based on comparable port developments, Noatum Ports’ Pointe-Noire Terminal is estimated to create up to 9,000 jobs, both directly and indirectly, from the initial phase of construction and through the start of operations.

Construction activities are projected to create up to 800 jobs, whilst direct terminal operations are expected to support a further 400 roles. In addition, up to 7,000 indirect jobs are anticipated through new business opportunities enabled by the terminal.

The development of the Noatum Ports Pointe Noire Terminal is closely aligned with the Government of the Republic of the Congo’s vision and the National Development Plan for Congo Brazzaville, which prioritises economic diversification, reduced dependence on hydrocarbons, and inclusive growth.

By modernising port infrastructure, enhancing trade competitiveness, and strengthening logistics capabilities, AD Ports Group supports the Government’s ambition to position Pointe Noire as a leading maritime and logistics hub for Central and West Africa, whilst generating sustainable economic and social benefits.

The marine works contract includes the full design and construction of the quay wall, marine structures, crane foundations, quay infrastructure, and associated waterside works.

The topside works contract covers the development of a concession area, including container yard infrastructure, operational and administrative facilities, utilities networks, substations, and supporting terminal infrastructure.

The crane supply contract covers the manufacture and delivery of Super Post-Panamax STS cranes, which are amongst the largest and most advanced in container ports. The hybrid RTG cranes are expected to reduce diesel consumption by up to 60 percent compared to conventional diesel-powered RTGs, equivalent to savings of approximately 1 million litres of fuel per year, and a reduction of around 5,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions.

AD Ports Group continues to expand across Africa, with port terminals and logistics businesses in Egypt, Tanzania, Angola, Cameroon, and the Republic of the Congo, supporting regional trade integration and long-term economic development.

In addition, the Group provides maritime shipping services in West and East Africa and is building a 20km² industrial and logistics park in East Port Said, Egypt, at the Mediterranean entrance to the Suez Canal.

(WAM)-


Dubai Holding Real Estate has entered into a strategic partnership with Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB) to expand access to Sharia-compliant home financing solutions for eligible customers across Nakheel, Meraas and Dubai Properties.

The partnership introduces a comprehensive Sharia-compliant dual-track financing framework for both off-plan and completed (handover) properties, offering customers a seamless, end-to-end homeownership journey. Tailored home finances are available for qualifying off-plan properties and for completed units.

The agreement builds on Dubai Holding Real Estate’s expanding suite of customer financing solutions across its consumer-facing brands, including Nakheel, Meraas and Dubai Properties.

“Our partnership with ADIB is another important step in expanding access to structured home financing across our residential portfolio," said Khalid Al Malik, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Holding Real Estate. "By enabling eligible customers to access Sharia-compliant solutions across both off-plan and completed properties, we are creating clearer pathways to ownership and strengthening confidence at each stage of the customer journey."

It also reflects the important role that developer-bank partnerships can play in supporting Dubai’s continued growth as one of the world’s most attractive cities to live, invest and own a home," he added.

Mohamed Abdelbary, Group Chief Executive Officer of ADIB, said, “By supporting both off-plan and completed home purchases, we are helping more customers access structured and flexible home financing solutions, while contributing to the continued development of the UAE’s dynamic real estate sector.”

(WAM)-


Dubai Holding has announced a collaboration with Microsoft to embed artificial intelligence (AI) at the core of its operations, positioning the Group at the forefront of enterprise AI adoption in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region.

The collaboration establishes the first deployment of its kind at enterprise scale in the region and reflects Dubai Holding’s strategic direction to integrate advanced technologies as core operational capabilities, to drive a more consistent, performance-led operating model across its portfolio, aligned with the UAE’s broader ambition to lead in the adoption of artificial intelligence.

Through this collaboration, Dubai Holding will embed AI into its core processes and decision-making frameworks, enabling greater operational efficiency across the organisation and its operations spanning real estate, hospitality, retail, entertainment, investments and community management, among others.

Employees across the Group will be equipped with access through a unified interface, allowing them to apply these tools directly within their day-to-day responsibilities. This includes the development and deployment of AI agents to automate routine tasks, streamline workflows, marking a fundamental shift in how the organisation approaches productivity and decision-making.

This will be supported by a structured programme of training and enablement, including targeted workshops and practical use-case development, ensuring consistent adoption across the organisation and enabling employees to apply these capabilities effectively in their roles.

By embedding AI at scale, Dubai Holding is contributing to Dubai’s broader digital transformation ambitions, in alignment with national strategies such as the UAE National AI Strategy 2031 and the Dubai AI Roadmap, reinforcing the emirate’s position as a global hub for applied innovation and the responsible adoption of advanced technologies.

This reflects Dubai Holding’s broader approach to advancing artificial intelligence through strategic collaborations with leading global technology partners, including its existing joint venture Aither with Palantir Technologies.

Commenting on the partnership, Amit Kaushal, Group Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Holding, said, “Technology is central to how we operate and create value across the organisation. Our collaboration with Microsoft reflects a deliberate step in embedding artificial intelligence into our core operations, in line with Dubai’s broader digital transformation ambitions.”

Brad Smith, Vice Chair and President of Microsoft, stated, “The next phase of artificial intelligence is defined by how organisations apply it at scale to drive productivity and long-term value. Our role is to support customers like Dubai Holding with the platforms and capabilities needed to integrate AI securely into their operations, while advancing responsible innovation that benefits employees, businesses and the broader economy.”

(WAM)-


Modon Holding and Montage Hotels & Resorts have announced Montage Ras El Hekma, which will introduce the first branded residences for purchase at Ras El Hekma on Egypt’s Mediterranean coast. This is the first Montage resort in Egypt – supporting the emerging city’s growth as a global hub for leisure, business and tourism.

Montage Ras El Hekma will feature 200 guestrooms and suites, in addition to 96 Montage Residences, and will offer a curated mix of wellness and leisure amenities, including beachfront swimmable lagoons, a Spa Montage with 13 treatment rooms, and six dining venues, alongside retail and family-oriented experiences.

Designed as the experiential core of the wider community, the resort will also feature event spaces, expansive outdoor lawns and terraces, and a dedicated Owners’ Clubhouse that complements the private residential setting.

The residences represent a rare and highly exclusive ownership opportunity within a layered coastal setting that brings together 2.25 kilometres of shoreline, rolling fairways, an integrated marina and world-class hospitality experiences.

Bill O’Regan, Group CEO of Modon Holding, said, “Montage Hotels & Resorts are renowned for serving affluent travellers and homeowners, delivering an elevated guest experience and a commitment to refined living while remaining authentic to their surroundings. This ethos aligns closely with Modon’s vision for Ras El Hekma, where we are creating a distinctive Mediterranean destination defined by quality, experience and long-term value.”

Montage Residences Ras El Hekma comprise of a private collection of 96 branded villas positioned in Wadi Yemm, Ras El Hekma’s first precinct, designed to maximise space, light, privacy and seamless indoor-outdoor living. The three- to six-bedroom villas are oriented towards the sea, reinforcing a strong connection to the surrounding land and natural environment, with select homes offering dual views across the Mediterranean and a championship golf course.

Alan J. Fuerstman, Founder, Chairman and CEO of Montage International, said, “Bringing the Montage brand to Egypt with Modon is a truly exciting milestone in our global journey. Ras El Hekma is a remarkable destination, where rich heritage and thoughtful design come together in a way that is redefining luxury along the Mediterranean coast.

"We are honoured to collaborate with Modon to bring this vision to life and to build on their outstanding reputation for creating vibrant communities and delivering world-class sporting and lifestyle experiences.”

Montage Ras El Hekma forms part of the US$35 billion Ras El Hekma masterplan, a 170.8 million square metre development transforming Egypt’s Northern Coast into a next-generation city expected to attract investment of US$110 billion by 2045.

The resort and residences will be set within Wadi Yemm, the first of Ras El Hekma’s 17 planned precincts to move into active delivery. As the city’s first fully integrated coastal community, it represents the opening chapter of the broader masterplan vision.

Wadi Yemm will also feature a series of cultural landmarks that will help shape the identity of the wider city, including the Ras El Hekma Lighthouse and an amphitheatre designed to host up to 10,000 guests across an annual programme of cultural and entertainment events.

Ras El Hekma is designed for seamless access by road, sea, and air, placing it within four hours’ flight time of nearly half the world’s population. The destination will include a new international airport integrated with high-speed rail networks, major highways, and marinas, alongside a dedicated cruise terminal.

Spanning 44 kilometres of Mediterranean coastline, Ras El Hekma will deliver a mix of leisure, hospitality and cultural offerings. At its core, the destination will feature a central business and financial district, supported by education, residential and mixed-use districts designed to sustain a vibrant year-round community.

Upon completion, Ras El Hekma is expected to contribute approximately US$25 billion annually to Egypt’s GDP and create around 750,000 jobs, establishing it as one of the region’s largest urban development and investment projects.

(WAM)-


Gulf Mercantile Exchange (GME) on Monday announced the highest weekly trading volume in the history of the exchange, with more than 69,052 contracts traded during the week of 11 May 2026, equivalent to 69 million barrels of Oman crude oil.

The milestone marks the strongest trading week recorded on the exchange in two decades. It underscores the growing importance of GME Oman Crude Oil Futures as a leading benchmark for Middle East crude pricing and risk management.

“This reflects the market’s growing confidence in GME Oman as a trusted benchmark and risk management tool for global energy participants,” said Raid Al-Salami, Managing Director of GME.

Since its inception, GME has traded more than 23 billion barrels of Oman crude oil and facilitated the physical delivery of more than 3 billion barrels.