Dr Matthew Marson, Managing Director Technology Advisory EMA & APAC at JLL, joins AB Majlis to explain why smart city technology could add $6.9 billion to Dubai’s economy and almost $16bn to Riyadh’s. He also explains why AI-powered energy systems, connected transport and smarter construction could become a new infrastructure asset class.

Hakan Ozdemir, CEO of Siemens Smart Infrastructure in the Middle East and Siemens Qatar, joins Tala Michel Issa on AB Majlis to discuss what that transformation looks like in practice.

They explore the rise of industrial AI, the growing strain on electricity grids, the extraordinary energy requirements of AI and data centres, and how digital technology could make buildings and critical infrastructure more autonomous, efficient and resilient.

Ozdemir also explains why the next stage of the Middle East’s infrastructure boom will depend not only on investment, but on cybersecurity, skills, public-private partnerships and transferring technological know-how to local teams.

The Siemens Infrastructure Transition Monitor: Middle East 2026 found that 66% of regional executives want the global energy transition to accelerate significantly, while 62% expect AI to reshape infrastructure operations within the next three years.

Download the full Siemens report: https://www.siemens.com/itm2026-me

This episode of AB Majlis was produced in partnership with Siemens.

Managing Editor Tala Michel Issa sits down with Fahad Al Mheiri, Boeing’s Vice President for the Middle East, Gulf and North Africa, to discuss why the region could need another 3,000 aircraft over the next 20 years, why delivery slots are “like gold” and how parts built in Al Ain are ending up on Boeing 787s.

They also explore what recent conflict revealed about the Gulf’s aviation and defence systems, why military spending is a form of “expensive insurance” and how autonomous aircraft could change the future of warfare.

This episode is sponsored by Visa.

In this episode of AB Majlis, Arabian Business reporter Nicole Abigael sits down with Flawith to discuss why Gulf-born restaurant brands are increasingly becoming exporters rather than importers, the $10 million Yolk Brands has invested in building its international operation and what it takes to make a homegrown concept travel.

They also discuss Saudi Arabia, delivery economics, social media, choosing franchise partners, why Yolk has rejected more than 1,000 prospective partners and whether an IPO could eventually be on the table.

In this episode of AB Majlis, Reporter Nicole Abigael speaks with Rajeev Chalisgaonkar, Head of Business Banking and NEO BIZ at Mashreq, about the changing demands of SME banking in the UAE.

The conversation looks at why speed-to-market has become critical for founders, how digital onboarding and eKYC are changing business account opening and why cashflow, resilience and operational efficiency are now central to SME survival.

They also discuss Mashreq NEO BIZ’s One-Day Service Promise for eligible business customers, the role of banks beyond lending and payments, and what entrepreneurs should expect from their financial partners as they build and scale.

In this episode, Reporter Nicole Abigael sits down with Anuratna Chadha, Group Chief Risk Officer at Mashreq to explore how banks can move beyond checkbox compliance and turn risk intelligence into a strategic advantage.

The conversation looks at what operational resilience really means for banks today, why cyber security and fraud prevention have become boardroom issues, how technology is reshaping risk management, and why the institutions that recover fastest from disruption may also be the ones best placed to compete.

At its core, this is a conversation about the new business of resilience: how banks prepare for the unexpected, protect trust, and build systems that can keep moving even when the world around them becomes more volatile.

In this special episode, in partnership with Spartan Middle East, Justin Harper, Senior Contributor at Arabian Business and Editor of CEO Middle East, speaks to Najib Yaacoub, Chief Operating Officer of Lavoya Restaurants Group, about why Joe & The Juice has teamed up with Spartan in the UAE.

The episode comes ahead of Spartan City at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi on Saturday, June 13, 2026, featuring a 3K Open Race and a 1-3K Kids Race.

The conversation looks at the rise of the UAE’s fitness and wellness economy, the power of community-led brands, and why businesses are increasingly expected to do more than simply sell a product. From active lifestyles and healthier choices to resilience, discipline and scaling a fast-growing hospitality business, this episode explores how Spartan’s obstacle-course mindset is finding its way into boardrooms, brands and everyday life.

For anyone who has ever wondered whether fitness is becoming a business strategy, this one is for you.

Yousuf discusses how Dubai’s property sector continues to show resilience amid regional uncertainty, supported by the UAE’s infrastructure, safety, regulation and long-term planning. He also examines how buyer behaviour is changing as investors and residents become more selective in a maturing market.

The conversation explores the rise of wellness as a real estate driver, moving beyond traditional amenities such as gyms and pools toward homes and communities built around healthier everyday living, energy efficiency, smart systems, green spaces, air quality and long-term wellbeing.

Yousuf also discusses why sustainability must become measurable for developers, how technology is changing buyer expectations and whether Dubai’s next real estate cycle will be led by scale, quality or a deeper focus on liveability.

Diego unpacks what biological resilience and antifragility really mean in a high-pressure corporate world, why modern offices often work against our biology, and how small environmental and behavioral changes — from circadian lighting and posture to setting boundaries — can dramatically improve performance and longevity.

They discuss the hidden costs of hustle culture and 90,000 work hours, the power of grip strength and VO2 max as longevity predictors, the pitfalls of over-relying on wearables, and why companies that truly invest in human capital will gain a massive competitive edge.

A thought-provoking conversation packed with practical insights for anyone feeling the strain of modern work life. Whether you’re an employee, leader, or simply interested in optimizing health and performance, this episode will shift how you think about wellness at work.

On this episode of AB Majlis, host Tala Michel Issa sits down with real estate veterans and reality TV stars Ben Bandari and Rami Wahood to talk candidly about what really changed this season - on screen and off.

From bigger properties and larger deals to heightened drama and personal risk, the pair reveal how the pressure intensified, why season two felt different, and what it’s actually like watching yourself on TV. Rami opens up about showing a more vulnerable side this time around, while Ben reflects on the personal stakes behind the scenes.

With Dubai’s identity deeply tied to real estate, the conversation goes beyond reality TV to explore ambition, nerves, reputation, personal branding, and what it takes to survive in one of the world’s fastest-growing and most competitive property markets.

The new season of Million Dollar Listing UAE can be watched on STARZPLAY.

The episode explores how Binance approaches communication without overwhelming newcomers, what crypto stories resonate most in the region and how public perception has shifted over the past few years.

From engaging with regulators in the UAE to correcting common misconceptions, we discuss the strategies shaping long-term trust between platforms and users. We also look ahead to 2026, exploring the trends and conversations that excite the crypto community.

Asprey discusses why he believes Dubai and the UAE are becoming a global hotspot for longevity clinics and “biohacked” environments, and explains how data and AI-driven health protocols are shaping the next wave of wellness. The conversation spans the most debated topics in modern health: biological age, diet and protein, GLP-1 drugs (e.g. Ozempic, Mounjaro and Wegovy), circadian rhythm, sleep and light exposure, sauna and cold plunges, creatine, vitamin D, electrolytes and salt, and the difference between what’s science-based versus what’s simply wellness marketing.

You’ll also hear Asprey’s most controversial positions – including his critique of vegan diets, his view on endurance cardio, and his argument that many people underperform because of nutrient gaps, toxins, and disrupted sleep cycles, not lack of willpower.

As banking becomes increasingly digital, the way institutions manage trust and accountability must evolve. AB Majlis host Tala Michel Issa sits down with Hassan Ali, Group Chief of Internal Audit at Mashreq, to explore the next frontier of internal audit.

From transforming traditional risk frameworks to adopting AI-powered analytics, Ali outlines how Mashreq is leading the charge toward proactive, agile, and tech-driven auditing, and why audit leaders must embrace foresight, not fear, when it comes to artificial intelligence.

In this episode of AB Majlis, Chief Reporter Tala Michel Issa sits down with Kim Murphy, Binance’s Head of Global Event Marketing, to unpack what to expect from the 2025 edition. From the strategy behind Binance’s 1,500-plus global events to the speakers shaping the future of digital assets, Kim reveals what makes this week such a defining moment for the industry.

If you want an insider look at the ideas, trends, and conversations that will dominate crypto next year, this episode has it.

CKay breaks down the rock-infused DNA of his latest number-one single Body (Danz) the rise of Afrobeats from Lagos to Bali and the Gulf, his rules for genuine collaboration in the Middle East and the legacy he wants to leave as an innovator of the sound, not just another star on the charts.

In this week’s episode of AB Majlis, Tala Michel Issa sits down Hasan Fardan Al Fardan is the CEO of Al Fardan Exchange. From humble beginnings in the pearl trade 70 years ago to becoming one of the UAE’s most trusted names in financial services, Al Fardan Exchange embodies a story of vision, resilience, and enduring family legacy.

What started as a “full moon party” for 100 friends has evolved into a full-fledged brand spanning events, weddings, retreats, and production houses. Aboudib opens up about building a loyal audience without chasing superstar DJs, how Snoopy Beats survived Covid, and the art of turning a family-run beach resort into a national destination.

From the economics of festivals to the philosophy of hospitality, this conversation is a masterclass in how passion projects evolve into ecosystems.

Listen for insights on:

• The business model behind Snoopy Beats
• The rise of regional festivals across the Gulf
• The creative clash between generations in family enterprises
• Why Fujairah might just be the UAE’s next cultural hotspot

In this AB Majlis episode, host Tala Michel Issa (Chief Reporter, Arabian Business) speaks with Steve Bertamini (ex-CEO, Al Rajhi and KGI; Kearney adviser) and Mukund Bhatnagar (Partner, Kearney; Global Lead for Financial Services) on where AI is already paying off, why mortgages still need humans, and how data quality, privacy and regulators will shape hyper-personalised finance by 2030.

We unpack fintech partnerships, the real threat from Big Tech, and what it will take for GCC banks to become truly AI-native — without losing customer trust.

Why can the UAE and Saudi Arabia adopt cutting-edge tech faster than almost anywhere else? Cisco’s regional chief David Meads joins host Tala Michel Issa to argue it’s not just the money. It’s the decision-making culture: fewer committees, more action.

Together they follow the data trail – from AI-ready networks and “agentic” digital assistants to the hidden plumbing of global internet traffic – to reveal why infrastructure, not just algorithms, decides who wins the AI race. Is the Gulf’s speed a model the rest of the world should copy, or a risky bet on a future built at breakneck pace?

What if the next property boom isn’t about sustainability at all, but regeneration — buildings that give back more than they take? In this episode of AB Majlis, Tala Michel Issa, Chief Reporter at Arabian Business, sits down with Alex Zagrebleny, founder and CEO of R.Evolution, the developer behind Dubai’s ambitious EYWA “Tree of Life” project.

Zagrebleny explains why he believes “sustainability isn’t enough,” outlining his Generation 5.0 vision: homes that purify air and water, shield residents from EMF exposure, and even host hydroponic farms capable of producing up to 20 tonnes of vegetables a year. He also makes the hard-nosed financial case, arguing that a modest 5% construction premium can lift a building’s valuation by around 15%.

From ancient Vedic design principles to 16-tonne crystal energy cores, this conversation explores how wellness, technology and solid economics might reshape the Gulf’s property market.

In this episode, Reporter Nicole Abigael sits down with Fernando Morillo, Group Head of Retail Banking at Mashreq, to unpack the bank’s bold digital banking transformation. As one of the region’s most digitally advanced financial institutions, Mashreq is reimagining what modern banking can look like by placing the customer at the centre of everything, leveraging AI, and rethinking traditional structures. We’ll explore how digital innovation is enabling more agile, inclusive, and scalable banking, and what this means for both individuals and businesses.

Vaccine hesitancy continues to pose a serious public health challenge, particularly when it comes to maternal immunisation. In the latest episode of AB Majlis, Nicole Abigael, Arabian Business journalist sits down with Dr. Nawal Al Kaabi, Pediatrician and Infectious Diseases Consultant, Hayat Biotech to talk about the importance of maternal vaccines, common misconceptions, and the science-backed safety measures in place to protect both mothers and their babies.

In this episode of AB Majlis, Arabian Business chief reporter Tala Michel Issa sits down with Dar Global CEO Ziad El Chaar to unpack Saudi Arabia’s forthcoming freehold law, the $100 billion local property market, and how Vision 2030 is reshaping global capital flows.

From Dubai’s early freehold boom to Riyadh’s next chapter, El Chaar explains why he believes the Gulf is the most exciting real estate destination on earth. The conversation also dives into the rise of branded residences - Versace, Aston Martin, Trump - and why El Chaar says investors aren’t just buying ROI, they’re buying “return on ego.”

A must-listen for anyone tracking Gulf megaprojects, international real estate, and the intersection of luxury, investment, and identity.

From Dubai's luxury spas targeting stressed-out executives to Thailand wellness retreats designed specifically for Middle Eastern clients, they unpack how discomfort became the new luxury. Discover why the cold plunge industry alone is worth $450 million (growing to $820 million by 2032), the dark side of wellness tourism, and the shocking health risks behind the Instagram-perfect ice bath photos.

This episode explores the psychology of why we believe "if it hurts, it must work," the role of social media in driving dangerous wellness trends, and Nicole's firsthand experience working for a cryotherapy company. From 12-year-olds dying from ice baths to record-holders sitting in freezing water for over 2 hours, they examine when wellness becomes genuinely dangerous.

Topics covered: Cold plunge economics, cryotherapy risks, breathwork dangers, sauna science, Dubai's wellness boom, post-COVID health obsessions, and why discomfort has become the ultimate luxury commodity in the Gulf region.

A raw, unfiltered conversation about entrepreneurship, power, imposter syndrome, and what it really takes to turn fame into capital.

Yalcin, who recently led a $135 million investment into iMENA and joined its board, explains why AI has fundamentally killed the traditional marketplace business model and how his "bicycle, car, rocket ship" framework determines when entrepreneurs should fuel their businesses with venture capital.

Most startup founders dream of unicorn status, but Yalcin shares the sobering statistics — only 4 in a million companies in China and 9 in a million in the U.S. ever reach the billion-dollar valuation mark. So what separates the car builders from the rocket scientists? According to Yalcin, it comes down to pain tolerance, delayed gratification, and the understanding that "building a great company should take decades, not years."

Listen as we explore the hidden economics of marketplaces, the biological barriers between humans and AI, and the path to creating the Middle East's next tech IPO.

Khan discusses how Bayut and dubizzle are driving market transparency and enhancing the home search experience in a booming property market. With Dubai’s real estate sector experiencing unprecedented demand, Khan reveals how AI-driven search tools and real-time data are helping users make smarter decisions, while supporting developers and agents in a fast-moving digital economy.

He shares insights into the company’s customer-first approach, the future of property technology in the UAE, and how platforms like Bayut and dubizzle are helping redefine how residents interact with real estate — from browsing to buying.

The conversation also touches on broader regional trends, smart city integration, and how proptech innovation is set to shape the next chapter of growth in the Middle East’s property markets.

Nuseibeh reveals how Hala has captured a significant portion of Dubai's e-hailing market while growing its customer base by 21% year-on-year, even as new competitors like Bolt and Yango enter the scene. He shares insights from his journey from the telecom sector through Careem's landmark Uber acquisition to leading Hala, and explains how the company uses data analytics to stay ahead of Dubai's growing traffic challenges as the city approaches 4 million residents.

The conversation explores Hala's sustainability initiatives with its expanding electric vehicle fleet, innovative customer solutions like WhatsApp booking for tourists, and how "booking a Hala" has become part of Dubai's everyday language. Nuseibeh also offers his perspective on the future of mobility, including autonomous vehicles and the possibility of flying taxis in Dubai's skyline.

A must-listen for anyone interested in transportation technology, urban mobility solutions, and how innovative leadership is transforming one of the world's fastest-growing cities.

Can your bank's AI agent talk to your personal AI agent to handle your finances? Mashreq's technology chief Mohamed Abdel Razek reveals how the UAE's largest private bank is deploying 70-80 AI use cases across fraud detection, credit decisions, and customer experience.

While he envisions a future of conversational banking—imagine talking to an ATM like a person—Razek questions whether you'd trust a computer to approve your 25-year mortgage today. In this candid conversation, discover why "trustworthy AI-infused banking" is Mashreq's strategy, how voice recognition could revolutionize banking, and why the UAE's digital infrastructure gives it a massive advantage in the global AI race. Plus: the surprising reason why even tech experts wouldn't get in a pilotless drone.

In this episode of AB Majlis, host Tala Michel Issa, Chief Reporter at Arabian Business, sits down with Dr. Chaouki Kasmi, Chief Innovation Officer of the Technology Innovation Institute (TII). Dr. Kasmi takes us behind the scenes of the UAE's ambitious AI strategy, exploring how cloud partnerships helped develop the country's first homegrown language model. He discusses the Emirates' early adoption of AI technologies, highlights the critical role AWS played in the Falcon LLM's development and deployment on SageMaker, and hints at upcoming releases that will impress the tech community.

The conversation examines how regional businesses can benefit from these advancements, touches on quantum computing developments, energy considerations in AI, and the UAE's positioning against traditional tech powerhouses like the US and China. A fascinating look at how the Gulf region is transforming its technological landscape and aiming for global leadership in AI innovation.

From his journey watching Dubai's Palm Jumeirah being built on TV to now living there himself, Duncombe shares insights on luxury property trends, wealth migration to the UAE, and how technology is reshaping the industry. The conversation explores opportunities in emerging markets like Ras Al Khaimah and exclusive developments on Dubai's World Islands, offering listeners a glimpse into the future of Gulf real estate from one of the industry's most forward-thinking voices.

Nakache reveals how Google's Gemini AI has already mastered 16 Arabic dialects—an unprecedented achievement—and shares the company's ambitious roadmap for complete Arabic language coverage. The conversation delves into Google's recently announced $15 million AI Opportunity Initiative for the MENA region, aimed at upskilling half a million people in AI over the next two years.

From the unique ways young Arabs are using AI for career advancement to the economic potential of $320 billion in AI-driven growth by 2030, this episode offers rare insights into how Google is approaching one of technology's most complex linguistic challenges. Nakache also discusses the transformative impact AI is already having on education and healthcare across the region, providing a fascinating glimpse into a future where technology speaks every Arabic dialect fluently.

From 17th-century Venetian poison rings to Vatican treasures, we uncover the stories behind these hidden gems and the art of collecting overlooked masterpieces. Join us as we explore the legacy of a collector whose love for discovery turned jewelry into a chronicle of time.

Until April 26th, the collection will be exhibited at the L’ÉCOLE Middle East School of Jewelry Arts in Dubai.

Mahmood reveals how e& navigated the challenging dynamics of rising infrastructure investments and declining consumer prices, transforming from a traditional telco into a digital-first powerhouse. From achieving a 40% drop in customer complaints to launching innovative super apps and fintech solutions, the conversation offers a masterclass in corporate evolution.

From discussing the UAE's pioneering role in AI adoption to addressing workforce concerns in an AI-driven future, Dowidar shares insights on how e& is evolving from a traditional telco to a global tech powerhouse.

From implementing the world's first nationwide e-health system to leveraging blockchain technology since 2007, Minister Sikkut shares insights on Estonia's journey from paper records to AI-assisted healthcare. The conversation delves into the delicate balance between artificial intelligence and human touch in medical care, the future of telemedicine, and Estonia's growing collaboration with the UAE in advancing digital health solutions.

He shares perspectives on the future of electric vehicles (EVs) in the UAE, the evolution of consumer preferences, and the strategic initiatives driving Al Masaood's success. From the significance of the company's Project Falcon initiatives to the challenges of EV adoption in high-rise communities, Tansel offers a blend of historical context and future outlook.

The region’s unique combination of high-net-worth individuals, transient populations, and proximity to sanctioned nations makes it particularly vulnerable to various forms of financial crime, from sophisticated AI-driven fraud to traditional money laundering schemes.

The evolution of financial crime has accelerated dramatically over the past two decades, transforming from simple check fraud in the 1990s to today’s sophisticated cyber threats.

Drawing from her extensive experience in financial services and technology, Ajmal explores critical issues including gender stereotypes, career progression, and the transformative potential of AI. She shares candid insights about workplace biases, the importance of confidence, and strategies for aspiring women professionals.

From personal career-defining moments to her vision for empowering the next generation of leaders, this conversation is a compelling narrative of resilience, strategic thinking, and professional growth in a rapidly evolving global marketplace.

Learn why these sustainable gems are winning over luxury consumers, how they compare to mined diamonds in terms of quality and value, and why Dubai is becoming a global hub for their production. The experts share insights on market trends and reveal why major fashion houses are embracing this ethical alternative.

Philips shares exclusive insights into upcoming luxury hotel brands, innovative attractions, and the restoration of historical treasures like Jazira Al Hamra. Learn how this emerging emirate is strategically positioning itself as a diverse, world-class destination while maintaining its unique cultural heritage.

Dive deep into the infrastructure developments, airport expansions, and strategic vision that's set to make RAK one of the world's most livable cities.

As Gulf Food approaches, we also get an exclusive preview of Tetra Pak's latest technologies and their vision for the future of food packaging in the region.

They also tackle the controversial question of AI versus human expertise in the beverage industry, and discuss cultural sensitivity, ethical considerations, and the potential disruption of traditional sommelier and bartender roles. Additionally, they touch on CityDrinks' expansion plans and how Genie is adapting to emerging consumer trends in the UAE's unique market.

Carlos Ghosn, once hailed as the saviour of Nissan and architect of the landmark Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi alliance, found himself at the centre of a global scandal in 2018 when he was arrested in Japan on charges of financial misconduct. In this candid conversation, Ghosn offers his perspective on the events that unfolded, including his unprecedented escape from Japan in 2019.

This episode dives into the intricacies of corporate power struggles, the weaponisation of justice, and the cultural clashes between French and Japanese business practices. Ghosn also shares his thoughts on Lebanon's ongoing crisis and the escalating tensions with Israel.

This rare and frank discussion with one of the most talked-about business leaders of our time provides listeners with an insider's view of international corporate politics and the personal cost of being at the centre of a global controversy.

Listeners will gain exclusive insights into Binghatti's strategy of creating "collectible" residences, with Binghatti revealing record-breaking sales figures and the unique approach behind projects like the Bugatti Residences. The episode also covers the company's ambitious growth plans, including expansion into new markets like Saudi Arabia and the UK.

Binghatti addresses concerns about market oversupply, providing a compelling argument for Dubai's continued real estate strength. He also shares valuable entrepreneurial advice, discussing the importance of passion, persistence, and adapting to failure in achieving success.

From the evolution of branded residences to the future of Dubai's property sector, this episode offers an in-depth look at one of the most dynamic real estate markets in the world, as told by one of its key players.

From the power of consistency to the nuances of digital presence, this episode offers listeners a masterclass in professional self-presentation. Lundberg shares anecdotes from her two-decade career, including her work with high-profile clients, and provides actionable advice for introverts and extroverts alike.

Throughout the interview, they explore Dubai's current tourism landscape, its preparation for the upcoming busy tourist season, and the emirate's long-term vision for maintaining its status as a global tourism hotspot. Al Khaja also discusses recent trends, upcoming projects, and the unique "Dubai model" that has propelled the city to the forefront of the global tourism industry.

They explore the evolution of premium office spaces, the iconic ICD Brookfield Place development, and the growing demand for high-quality workspaces in the region. Devereux shares valuable insights on market trends, expansion strategies, and the recent significant stake acquisition by Lunate and Olayan Group. The discussion also addresses concerns about market oversupply and reveals ICD Brookfield's plans to maintain its competitive edge in the coming years.

For the first time ever, these anonymous leaders break their silence, sharing insights into their vision for decentralization, the power of memes in driving crypto adoption, and the future of the Shiba Inu ecosystem.

Discover the human side of these masked innovators as they discuss their unique perspectives on leadership, community, and the potential for digital statehood in the evolving landscape of Web3. This rare glimpse into the minds shaping one of the most talked-about cryptocurrencies is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of finance and technology.

Constable shares his expert insights on the changing definition of fine dining, the challenges faced by high-end restaurants, and the exciting trends shaping the future of Dubai's culinary scene.

From the rise of chef's tables to the increasing use of local ingredients, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the economics and innovation driving Dubai's gastronomic landscape.

Al Nahlaoui weighs in on key players such as Amazon Web Services and the integral role it played in helping the company scale to rapidly innovate in the ride-hailing market and add new services like Careem Box, School Rides, Dine Out, and so much more through cloud technology.

Throughout the interview, he reveals insights into the company's strategic decisions, challenges faced, and the unique factors that contributed to Careem's success.

Listen in to learn how this Dubai-based company leveraged the power of partnerships and it's mission to create social impact to achieve a billion-dollar valuation and become one of the region's most prominent unicorns.

Kronenberg analyses Saudi's Vision 2030 diversification goals through the sports lens, From football's surging popularity to opportunities in basketball, tennis, golf, and more. He weighs the economic impact of mega-events like the potential 2034 World Cup versus grassroots participation.

As Saudi and the UAE race to build sports powerhouses, Kronenberg explores building sustainable sporting ecosystems for long-term growth beyond economic events.

In this episode of AB Majlis, Arabian Business' Senior Reporter, Tala Michel Issa, sits down with Dr. Fadi Salem, Director of Research and Advisory at the Mohammed bin Rashid School of Government (MBRSG), and Ali Haidar, Corporate Counsel and UAE Lead for Corporate, External and Legal Affairs at Microsoft, to discuss AI's responsible use and what a potential ethical framework could entail in the near future.

They discuss the alarming rise in romance scams and trends in ransomware attacks, as well as the steady decline of illicit activity on the blockchain. The experts also provide insights into regaining public trust after events like FTX's collapse, regulation's role in combating crypto crime, and how blockchain analytics help identify and disrupt illicit activity. They highlight that while crypto remains a small portion of overall economic activity, the industry must continue educating and building guardrails as adoption grows.

Arabian Business Editorial Director Matthew Amlot sits down with Ashish Koshy, Group Chief Operating Officer at M42, and Elena Bonfiglioli, Global Business Leader for Healthcare and Life Sciences at Microsoft, to get an exclusive look into the work the two companies are doing together in the UAE and how it fits in the country's wider AI strategy.

Through examples like healthcare advances saving lives and sustainable battery discoveries, they illustrate AI's potential to solve humanity's greatest challenges. As entrepreneurs launch startups applying these technologies, the experts emphasise the need for widespread digital skills and lifelong learning.

Most inspiring is their work ensuring all citizens can navigate the AI-driven future, from pioneering graduate programs to partnerships spreading AI education nationwide. Under their guidance, the UAE is realising its full potential to establish a knowledge economy and digital society through innovative applications of artificial intelligence.

In this episode, Senior Reporter Tala Michel Issa goes in depth with Mihai Florescu, co-founder of Truffle House Dubai, to uncover the fascinating world of truffles. We learn how Truffle House got its start as a specialty retail store before expanding into supplying high-end restaurants across the UAE.

Florescu gives us a peek behind the curtain into the global truffle trade, explaining why certain truffles like the elusive white Alba truffle from Italy can cost thousands of dollars per pound. He shares insider tips on how to spot high-quality truffles and avoid inferior products.

The truffle industry is also shrouded in secrecy, and Mihai opens up about the ethical issues like dog poisonings that have given it a bad name. With demand for truffles only increasing globally, he discusses the future of the supply chain and where Truffle House is looking to expand next.

Zagrebleny unveils his revolutionary concept for the world's most health-conscious building, which will act as a 'building mother' harnessing ancient knowledge and modern tech to safeguard residents' well-being in Dubai's first development of its kind.

Bandari, a producer and cast member on the hit reality show Million Dollar Listing UAE, shares why he sees EYWA as a "no-brainer" for his high-net-worth clientele as the project addresses shifting priorities around wellness and longevity amid the billionaire migration to Dubai in a post-pandemic world. The interview explores how EYWA aims to set a new standard for sustainable, biophilic design supporting residents' overall health and quality of life.

Join us for an insightful conversation about the company's impact on the crypto landscape, the future of digital assets, and more exclusive insights from one of the industry's leading experts.

In this episode, Senior Reporter Tala Michel Issa speaks with geopolitical risk expert Nicolas Michelon, Partner at strategic advisory firm Confluence Consultants, about the expansion's strategic implications and potential impacts on reshaping global trade in the coming years.

At the same time, remote arrangements may pose challenges for those early in their careers who need face-time and networking opportunities within their organizations to advance. As companies transition to hybrid or office-centric models, Justin offers insights on balancing professional demands with personal well-being as professionals re-integrate into the new world of work.

Join us as we explore the challenges and triumphs of navigating woman leadership in a male-dominated space, uncovering the strategies and insights that have propelled Rima to success in her career.