Abu Dhabi Banking Sector Fuels Growth and Investment

Qais bin Mohammed Al Yousef, Minister of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion, stated that Oman’s GDP is expected to grow by 3.4% this year, outperforming many global economies—a testament to the resilience of the national economy and international market confidence.

In his opening speech at the Advantage Oman Forum on April 27 in Muscat, Al Yousef said foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows grew by 16.2% in Q3 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. Additionally, Oman’s credit rating was upgraded with a stable outlook by Standard & Poor’s.

Organized by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion, the event brings together over 250 prominent figures, including senior officials, decision-makers, and regional and international investors, highlighting Oman’s position as a promising investment destination.

He emphasized that this forum marks a first-of-its-kind strategic event for Oman, attracting top decision-makers, business leaders, and investors across key sectors. The forum comes as Oman experiences significant growth in economic and investment fields, supported by rising international indicators.

Saudi Arabia’s non-oil exports reached an all-time high of 515 billion riyals ($137.29 billion) in 2024, the state news agency said on Saturday, as the kingdom continues its push to diversify its economy away from oil dependence.

The world’s leading oil exporter is investing billions of dollars to achieve its Vision 2030 plan, which focuses on reducing its reliance on oil and spending more on infrastructure to boost industries like tourism, sports and manufacturing.

Saudi Arabia is also working to attract more outside investment to ensure its ambitious plans stay on track.

Non-oil exports rose 13% year-on-year, and over 113% since the launch of Saudi vision 2030, state news agency SPA added.

Abdulrahman Althukair, CEO of the Saudi Export Development Authority, was quoted by SPA attributing the jump in non-oil exports to the “kingdom’s sustained efforts in economic diversification”.

On Friday, Saudi Arabia announced its 2024 annual report for the kingdom’s 2030 Vision plan, which saw the kingdom attract foreign direct investment worth 77.6 billion riyals ($20.69 billion).

It has set itself a target to attract $100 billion in annual foreign direct investment by the turn of the decade.

Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi: Non-oil trade between the UAE and the European Union continues to record stable growth rates, with Belgium emerging as a key partner within this framework.

Sharjah, As part of its ongoing efforts to advance economic and trade cooperation with Belgium, the Department of Government Relations (DGR) in Sharjah hosted an official dinner at The Chedi Al Bait Hotel. The event was held in the presence of Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi, Chairman of DGR, and H.E. Antoine Delcourt, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium to the United Arab Emirates, alongside diplomats, investors, and senior officials from both sides.

Sharjah’s strategic commitment to deepening its economic ties with the European Union was reflected in the event, which aimed to identify new avenues for collaboration and investment. It provided a valuable opportunity for exchanging expertise and insights, while also exploring practical steps to expand economic cooperation in alignment with the emirate’s broader development objectives.

The event featured a comprehensive presentation that highlighted Sharjah’s key economic sectors and the promising prospects available to European investors, particularly in technology, logistics, healthcare, education, and culture. Attendees were also briefed on the emirate’s business landscape and the competitive advantages it offers to international stakeholders.

Notable attendees included Joren Selleslaghs, Political Affairs Adviser and Deputy Head of the Belgian Diplomatic Mission; Albert Feytons, Science and Technology Commissioner for Flanders; Laurence Heyblom, Trade Commissioner for Brussels; and Edith Mayeux, Trade Commissioner for the Walloon region. They were joined by senior Sharjah officials, including H.E Hussain Al Mahmoudi, CEO of Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park, SRTI Park; H.E. Mohamed Juma Al Musharrkh, CEO of the Sharjah FDI Office; H.E. Khaled Al Huraimel, CEO of BEEAH Group; and Omar Al Mulla, CEO of Sharjah Asset Management.

Representatives from several major Belgian companies operating in sectors such as infrastructure, energy, finance, technology, industry, and services also took part. Their presence facilitated direct discussions, expert exchange, and exploration of future collaboration opportunities.

A growing partnership with Belgium

Commenting on the event, Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi affirmed that the meeting represented a significant milestone in the steadily advancing partnership between Sharjah and Belgium. He highlighted the emirate’s ongoing commitment to strengthening both economic and cultural ties with member states of the European Union, noting that the EU is the UAE’s second-largest trading partner.

The Chairman said: “Current economic indicators demonstrate the resilience and depth of relations between the UAE and the European Union, with non-oil trade continuing on a consistent upward trajectory. Within this framework, Belgium plays a key role, particularly in re-export and logistical integration. It stands as the UAE’s leading partner in re-exports to EU markets, underscoring the strategic connectivity between our ports and markets.”

He added: “Bilateral economic relations between the UAE and Belgium are increasingly robust, characterized by strong growth in non-oil trade. The UAE accounts for a notable portion of Belgium’s trade with the Arab world, reflecting a foundation of confidence. This trust supports the advancements of partnerships in innovation, technology, and infrastructure. We are confident that today’s meeting will serve as a catalyst for new opportunities, encouraging Belgian investors to explore the unique advantages Sharjah offers as a gateway to the region.”

This meeting is part of a series previously held between the DGR and Belgian counterparts, both in the UAE and in Brussels. It reflects Sharjah’s long-term vision to foster enduring partnerships with European investors and solidify its position as a leading destination for high-value investments in the region.

The Fintech and Innovation Summit, held recently organized by Mawarid Finance at the Palazzo Versace Hotel in Dubai under the theme “Empowering Innovation in Finance,” spotlighted pioneering expertise in the digital transformation of financial services and innovations in core banking solutions. The summit also explored the promising future of Islamic fintech in the UAE.

The event brought together over 300 senior executives and decision-makers from institutions operating in the technology and financial services sectors, specializing in advanced banking solutions and digital transformation, alongside representatives from Al Qasimia University in Sharjah.

Leading organizations including Cedar Management Consulting, Mastercard, BML Technology, Arab Financial Services (AFS), and Al Qasimia University showcased their latest rapidly deployable trends and innovations designed to serve the UAE’s banking sector. These initiatives are set to address the evolving needs of the rapidly expanding fintech industry, and are expected to drive a major leap forward in Islamic fintech. Ultimately, they aim to deliver innovative, high-quality services to Mawarid Finance’s clients and to strengthen the UAE’s position as a hub for modern banking solutions that support the digital economy.

During the summit, His Excellency Rashid Al Qubaisi Chief Executive Officer of Mawarid Finance, announced a series of partnerships the organization has recently established with leading companies both domestically and internationally. He also hinted at upcoming agreements with major institutions, describing them as “partners of success.” Al Qubaisi reaffirmed Mawarid Finance’s commitment to providing customized, innovative solutions tailored to the unique needs of each partner, moving beyond a one-size-fits-all approach — all with the aim of serving and empowering its valued clients.

His Excellency emphasized that Mawarid Finance, through its future-focused vision, is determined to serve as a true enabler for fintech companies, providing them with the tools they need to swiftly and efficiently launch digital financial services. He highlighted the company’s commitment to fostering a fully integrated digital services environment, prioritizing transparency, leveraging data for informed investment decisions, and strategically planning every step to overcome challenges and achieve ambitious goals.

At the conclusion of the summit, His Excellency honored the organization’s success partners and event sponsors, whose contributions have been instrumental in Mawarid Finance’s notable achievements. Among those recognized were BML Technology, Arab Financial Services (AFS), and Falcon Eye Technology.

The Jordanian-Hungarian Joint Committee convened its fourth session in Amman on Thursday to explore avenues for expanding bilateral economic cooperation, with a particular focus on increasing trade volume and leveraging investment opportunities across multiple sectors.

Minister of Industry, Trade and Supply Yarub Qudah said the committee meeting reflects the mutual commitment of Jordan and Hungary to boost collaboration in trade, investment, and other economic domains.

He noted that the relatively short interval since the committee’s last session underscores the “strength and continuity” of bilateral ties at the political, governmental and grassroots levels.

Qudah called for translating these “robust” relations into “concrete” economic outcomes by enhancing trade figures, activating signed memoranda of understanding , and transitioning towards implementation across priority sectors, notably energy, mining and environmental sustainability.

He also stressed the importance of fostering private sector engagement and establishing dynamic linkages between Jordanian and Hungarian businesses, pointing to “untapped” opportunities across regional markets.

He highlighted Jordan’s strategic geographic position, noting that foreign investment in Jordan requires collaborative efforts with capable institutional and private-sector partners an area where Hungary’s experience and capacities are highly valued.

In regards to education, Qudah praised Hungary’s initiative to provide 400 scholarships annually to Jordanian students over the next three years, describing the program as a “vital” tool for cultural exchange and long-term bilateral engagement.

Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Peter Szijjarto stressed his country’s commitment to deepening economic relations with Jordan, calling for regular exchanges between business delegations and institutional stakeholders.

He underlined the importance of maintaining economic cooperation that reflects the high level of political coordination between the two nations.

Szijjarto commended His Majesty King Abdullah for his role in promoting regional stability, highlighting the significance of the Hashemite Custodianship of Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem and Jordan’s efforts in promoting interfaith coexistence.

He also noted Jordan’s unwavering stance against extremism and its commitment to peace and conflict de-escalation, positioning the Kingdom as a “key” partner in advancing shared values.

The Hungarian minister proposed the establishment of a bilateral business forum before the end of the year and extended an invitation for a Jordanian business delegation to visit Hungary for direct talks with Hungarian companies.

Szijjarto reaffirmed Hungary’s “strong” support for the comprehensive strategic partnership between the European Union and Jordan, expressing confidence that such cooperation serves the mutual interests of both sides, despite occasional internal challenges within the EU that delay trade negotiations.

Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB) delivered a double-digit growth in net profit for the first quarter of the year, driven by higher lending and income from fees and commissions.

Net profit after tax for the first three months of 2025 reached AED 1.7 billion ($462.8 million), reflecting an 18% increase over the same period last year.

Revenues for the quarter grew by 14% to AED 2.9 billion, supported by higher income from financing activities and non-funding income.

Funded income reached AED 1.8 billion, up by 4% from a year ago, while non-funded income jumped by 35% to AED 1.1 billion.

The Islamic lender’s total assets rose by a quarter to AED 244 billion, fueled by growth in both retail and corporate banking financing, as well as an expansion in the investment portfolio.

Net profit margin slipped by only 36 bps to 4.31% despite a 100 bps cut in the benchmark rate. Cost to income ratio stood at 28.9%, an improvement from 30.4% 12 months earlier.

“We started the year with a strong performance, continuing the positive trajectory built over previous quarters. Our results are a clear reflection of our ability to grow profitably and execute our strategy with discipline,” Jawaan Awaidah Al Khaili, Chairman of ADIB, said.

Qatar Chamber (QC) hosted a high-level German trade delegation yesterday, led by H E Hendrik Wüst, Minister-President of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia. The delegation was received by Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani, Chairman of Qatar Chamber.

The Chamber organized a joint business meeting between the German delegation and several prominent Qatari businessmen. The meeting explored avenues to strengthen bilateral cooperation and discussed the investment climate in both Qatar and North Rhine-Westphalia, highlighting promising investment opportunities. Discussions also underscored the pivotal role of the private sector in advancing trade and economic relations between the two sides.

Key sectors identified for potential cooperation included information technology, energy, shipping, sports, petrochemicals, ports, engineering, pumping systems, semiconductor solutions, and polymer materials.

In his remarks, Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim emphasized that the meeting aimed to explore new avenues for expanding bilateral trade and economic cooperation, particularly through the private sector, given its vital role in both Qatar and Germany.

He noted that the trade volume between the two countries reached $6bn in 2024, with Qatari imports from Germany amounting to $5.1bn and exports to Germany reaching approximately $900m.

“Germany is a key destination for Qatari investments across various sectors, including the automotive industry, telecommunications, financial services, and real estate,” he added.

He noted that hundreds of German companies are currently operating in Qatar across key sectors, either through full ownership or in partnership with Qatari businesses.

Sheikh Khalifa further stated that, in line with the directives of His Highness the Amir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, to promote foreign direct investment, the Qatari government has proactively accelerated its transition toward a diversified and knowledge-based economy.

He emphasized that Qatar is among the world’s fastest growing and most promising markets, offering vast opportunities in sectors such as renewable energy, education, real estate, tourism, high technology, sports, security, and healthcare.

For his part, H E Hendrik Wüst, Minister-President of the German state of North Rhine-Westphalia, praised the strong relations between Qatar and Germany, noting that Qatar has become a regional hub for business, media, and sports. He also lauded Qatar National Vision 2030, particularly its focus on two key pillars: sustainability and economic diversification.

Wüst emphasized that North Rhine-Westphalia is a leading industrial region in Germany, home to a wide array of major industries. He noted that the region is undergoing a significant transformation—from coal and steel to artificial intelligence and advanced technology—creating vast opportunities for cooperation with the Qatari private sector.

During the meeting, Felix Neugart, CEO of NRW Global Business, delivered a presentation on the investment landscape and opportunities in North Rhine-Westphalia. He highlighted that the state is Germany’s most economically and industrially robust region, home to many of the country’s largest corporations and a thriving startup ecosystem.

He outlined five key sectors where Qatari investors can explore opportunities: artificial intelligence and advanced technologies, high-tech and nanotechnology, hydrogen production and carbon emissions reduction, biotechnology, and aviation.

As part of efforts to promote bilateral economic relations, the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI) hosted a high-level Libyan business delegation within the framework of the Omani-Libyan Business Forum that began in Muscat on Tuesday.

The forum was attended by delegates from seventeen Libyan companies, with the aim of exploring possibilities of cooperation and mutual investment in a range of vital sectors.

Hamoud al Saadi, Second Vice-Chairman of the OCCI Board of Directors, received the delegation and pointed out the forum’s role in developing cross-border commercial relations.

“We are pleased to host a delegation of Libyan businessmen in the context of developing bilateral investment relations,” Al Saadi stated. “Seventeen Libyan companies are participating in the forum, which is being co-organized by the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Libyan counterparts.”

He noted that the forum is showcasing a number of high-potential sectors like food security, infrastructure, medical industries, renewable energy, technology and healthcare services — all of which are Oman’s national priorities and of high interest to Libyan investors.

Issa al Bahlani, Member of the Labor Market Committee at OCCI and Representative of Sarooj Construction Company stressed the strategic significance of such forums. “The importance of these events cannot be overstated,” he said. “They attract international investors who seek promising opportunities in the Sultanate of Oman,” Al Bahlani spoke about how Oman has presented a wide range of opportunities for Libyan companies to invest in, specifically in food, healthcare, and construction.

Dubai Chamber of Commerce, one of the three chambers operating under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers, has announced the establishment of the Slovak Business Council.

The initiative aims to enhance economic ties between the business communities in Dubai and Slovakia and foster stronger trade and investment relations across diverse sectors.

The council was officially launched during its inaugural annual general meeting, which took place today at Dubai Chambers’ headquarters. Participants discussed avenues to expand cooperation, identify promising business opportunities, share expertise and data, and organize bilateral business events.

This strategic step reflects Dubai’s growing importance as a business destination of choice among Slovakian investors. By the end of 2024, the number of Slovakian companies registered as active members of Dubai Chamber of Commerce had reached 134, representing annual growth of 41%.

During the first quarter of this year alone, 10 new Slovakian companies joined the chamber’s membership. Non-oil trade between Dubai and Slovakia reached a value of AED3.4 billion in 2024, marking a 38% increase compared to 2023.

Maha Al Gargawi, Vice President of Business Advocacy at Dubai Chambers, commented, “The establishment of the Slovak Business Council represents a significant step in strengthening economic relations between Dubai and Slovakia. The council will serve as a vital platform to unlock new partnership opportunities and contribute to the growth of bilateral trade and investments.”

The Business Councils operating under the umbrella of Dubai Chamber of Commerce represent the interests of companies and investors from specific markets operating in Dubai. They work in close cooperation with the chamber to enhance bilateral trade and investments between Dubai and the markets represented, with the goal of developing robust long-term economic partnerships.

UAE’s gold prices shatter records as investor appetite in commodities surges:

• Gold prices in the UAE hit a historic high on April 22, 2025, driven by rising geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty.
• According to a survey by eToro, retail investor sentiment is shifting toward commodities, with 77% of UAE retail investors now allocating to gold.

George Naddaf, Managing Director MENA, eToro: “A surge in interest is echoed by eToro market data: approximately 77% of UAE retail investors are currently allocating funds into commodities like gold. The data further shows that 63% of UAE retail investors in the region consider currency fluctuations, and 44% cite geopolitical events as key influences on their investment strategies, both of which have played central roles in gold’s current rally.

“If global economic uncertainty persists, and there are few signs of imminent stability, perhaps gold may continue its upward trajectory. The key will be in navigating the fine line between capitalizing on its momentum and maintaining diversified, risk-managed exposure.”, he continues.

Analysts highlight that gold has traditionally served as a safe haven asset during periods of instability, attracting investors looking to hedge against inflation, currency volatility, and geopolitical risks. The recent escalation in geopolitical tensions, notably in Eastern Europe and the Middle East, has spurred increased demand for gold.

Furthermore, central banks globally, including in the UAE and neighboring Gulf countries, have boosted their gold reserves, reinforcing investor confidence. Market observers suggest this trend of central banks diversifying their reserves away from currencies, particularly the US dollar, underscores broader concerns about prolonged economic instability and inflationary pressures.

Local jewelry retailers and bullion dealers across Dubai and Abu Dhabi have reported increased foot traffic, as both seasoned investors and first-time buyers rush to capitalize on rising prices. Experts predict that if market volatility continues, interest in physical gold and gold-backed financial products could further surge in the coming months, setting additional records in the market.

Investment firms have advised caution, however, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a diversified investment portfolio. While gold can play an integral role in risk mitigation, overexposure can lead to vulnerability should the commodity’s trajectory shift unexpectedly. Financial experts continue to recommend balanced asset allocation, tailored to individual risk tolerance and investment goals.

With growing appetite for high-end coastal real estate in the UAE, Ajmal Makan Real Estate Development is set to host an exclusive showcase of its flagship island developments, underlining Sharjah’s transformation into a luxury waterfront destination. International and regional investors and homebuyers are turning their focus to Sharjah’s coastal real estate market, as hundreds attended a showcase by Ajmal Makan Real Estate Development today, featuring new island-based residential projects within its Dh25 billion master-planned city.

The showcase has presented Al Thuraya Island, The View Island, and Blue Beach Residence, all part of Ajmal Makan City – Sharjah Waterfront. Spanning 60 million square feet and designed to accommodate over 60,000 residents across eight islands, the development is one of the largest
mixed-use waterfront projects in the Northern Emirates.

“The demand for waterfront properties in Sharjah is accelerating, driven by limited supply and a growing interest in lifestyle-led investments,” said Sultan Al Shakrah, CEO of Ajmal Makan Real Estate Development. “Through this event, we’re offering a first-hand look at projects that represent not only architectural excellence but also long-term value and community-building.”

As investors increasingly shift their focus to Sharjah’s emerging premium locations, Ajmal Makan’s integrated island communities offer a unique proposition: private island living, strong rental yields, and a sustainable lifestyle set against expansive beaches and green space. Sharjah’s Real Estate Momentum Sharjah’s real estate sector has seen steady growth, with increasing interest from both domestic and international buyers. With hundreds of investors registered and strong interest from both regional and international buyers, Ajmal Makan’s event is set to spotlight Sharjah’s rising position in the luxury waterfront real estate scene.

From capital appreciation potential to strategic coastal expansion, this is a timely story on how Sharjah is turning global investor heads. Approximately 60% of buyers at the event are end-users, while 40% are investors targeting rental yields and long-term appreciation. Nationalities represented include buyers from the UAE, GCC, India, Pakistan, Russia, China, and Europe.

Meeting UAE’s Rising Demand for Waterfront Living

Across the UAE, coastal properties are in high demand. According to Property Monitor, waterfront residences have seen a 17% year-on-year price increase, while select areas in Sharjah have recorded up to 20% growth.

Sharjah remains one of the few emirates offering freehold beachfront ownership to all nationalities—a key factor attracting global investors seeking both capital growth and lifestyle appeal. Rental yields for waterfront properties in Sharjah are estimated between 5%–8%, according to
Bayut; dubizzle, further positioning Ajmal Makan as a compelling investment. “This is exactly where Ajmal Makan delivers—blending exclusivity, community, and accessibility into a future-ready model for coastal living,” added Al Shakrah.

Repeat Buyer Confidence

A notable share of attendees are expected to be repeat buyers—investors who participated in earlier phases such as Sun Island and Blue Bay Walk. With Phase 1 and 2 of earlier launches sold out, the event underscores rising confidence in Ajmal Makan’s long-term vision and Sharjah’s real estate future.

As waterfront property becomes increasingly scarce, Ajmal Makan City positions itself as a blueprint for sustainable, high-end urban development—blending private island living with economic and lifestyle opportunities.

Oman’s sporting heritage and natural advantages position it to capitalize on the rapidly expanding global sports economy. On April 29, industry leaders will gather at the Civil Aviation Authority Training Centre to explore strategic opportunities in this dynamic sector.

The 70-minute Tejarah Talks, ‘Game On: The Potential of Oman’s Sports Economy,’ session brings together experts who understand both the country’s competitive advantages and emerging trends in the world’s ninth-largest industry, valued at $2.65tn.

Moderated by Jamal al Asmi, Executive Producer, RealityCG, the panelists are Pankaj Khimji, Foreign Trade and International Cooperation Advisor, Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion (MoCIIP); Joe Rafferty, Events Director, Oman Sail; and Ali al Ajmi, CEO of Sabco Sports.

The discussion will highlight market opportunities, including S and the fast-growing eSports sector, now valued at $6.6bn with over 500mn viewers worldwide. The sustainable sports market, worth $26.2bn and projected to grow at 7.9% CAGR through 2032 offers particular promise as Oman pursues its 2050 Net Zero target.

Key topics will include the unique, year-round sports experiences offered by Oman’s diversity of landscapes and favorable climate for sports tourism and events, developing infrastructure through public-private partnerships and creating career pathways in sports management. And with a median age of approximately 29 and internet penetration exceeding 95%, Oman’s demographics align well with emerging sports sectors like eSports.

The panel will examine successful international models, including Barcelona’s Olympic investments that yielded substantial economic returns and Singapore’s innovative Sports Hub PPP structure. These case studies offer valuable insights for Oman’s strategic sports planning.

Beyond economic potential, the session will address the broader societal impact of sports. Research indicates communities with strong sports infrastructure experience enhanced social outcomes while regular physical activity reduces national healthcare costs significantly.

Organized by Oman Business Forum in association with MoCIIP and supported by MHD, Nortal, Invest Oman Lounge and Oman FM, April’s Tejarah Talks aims to provide actionable insights for investors, policymakers and industry stakeholders interested in developing Oman’s sports sector in alignment with Vision 2040 objectives.

Amwaj International, a billion-dollar multi-national conglomerate with over 10,000 employees and a global footprint across 27 cities, has acquired 18% stake in Dubai-based development firm Cledor, founded by industry veteran Omar Gull. The investment marks Amwaj’s entry into the rapidly growing real estate market in the UAE, with Cledor’s post-money valuation hitting USD 100 million.

This investment is a key part of Amwaj’s strategy to expand into one of the world’s most vibrant real estate markets. For over 30 years, Namir El Akabi has successfully directed developments and investments worth more than $60 billion across nearly every sector of the real estate industry.

Under the partnership, Cledor will manage and spearhead Amwaj’s upcoming real estate ventures in the UAE, harnessing its expertise in luxury real estate development. The funds will enable Cledor to attract top talent and manage operational expenses until its projects generate liquidity. Cledor will also leverage Amwaj’s global team of professionals, procurement network, and expertise to accelerate future growth.

Dubai’s real estate sector is witnessing exceptional growth, with record-breaking transactions and rising investor confidence. In 2024, Dubai reached an all-time high in real estate transaction values, totaling over AED 760.7 billion from 226,000 transactions. The boom has been fueled by foreign direct investment, a growing demand for luxury properties, and a pro-business regulatory framework.

As a thriving global business hub, Dubai offers an unparalleled environment for startups, enabling rapid scaling for companies like Cledor. With a tax-free income regime, ease of doing business, and a dynamic investment ecosystem, the city continues to attract ambitious companies ready to disrupt industries.

“Dubai provides the ideal environment for entrepreneurs to dream big and scale quickly,” said Omar Gull, Founder of Cledor. “In just under a year, we secured AED 2.3 billion in Gross Development Value (GDV) and more than 1.3 million square feet in projects. We have also demonstrated our ability to execute, having launched and sold out our first development in just four days, with a GDV of AED 435 million. Our partnership with Amwaj will further fuel our growth, allowing us to capitalize on Dubai’s booming real estate market.”

Omar’s illustrious career path has seen him achieve sales upwards of USD 30 billion. He has previously held key leadership roles including the Chief Sales Officer of Dubai Holding, Head of Sales at Emaar Properties, General Manager of Emaar Saudi Arabia, Head of International Business at DAMAC Properties, as well as prior consulting experience at JLL.

Namir El Akabi, Founder and Chairman of Amwaj Group stated: “We are deeply confident in the vision and leadership of Omar Gull, who brings invaluable experience in the Dubai real estate market. The remarkable speed and scale at which Cledor has grown in under a year is testament to its vast potential. We are excited to support its journey and join hands in redefining the UAE’s real estate sector.”

While Cledor’s primary focus remains Dubai, the firm is also exploring high-growth emerging markets such as Far East Asia and Eastern Europe for potential expansion opportunities.

Through current and upcoming projects spanning approximately 20 million sqm of land, Amwaj aims to provide 50,000 units to accommodate 200,000 residents. To date, the company has invested about $2.4 billion in real estate assets that are either sold or under development in Iraq alone. These assets include residential, retail and office properties in Iraq’s premier property market.

Kuwait has allocated nearly $6 billion towards infrastructure and services projects in its 2025-2026 budget with special focus on rail, roads, water, electricity as well as the construction of the Mubarak Al Khabeer Port, said media reports.

The budget includes capital spending of nearly KD1.7 billion ($5.7 billion) and more than 90 projects.

The government has set a number of goals to be achieved through such projects in the current budget…they include increasing growth rates, expanding the private sector’s role in the economy and boosting non-oil revenues, it stated.

The Kuwaiti government is embarking on 90 new projects in various sectors, including roads, education, health, and infrastructure.

“For example, two new football stadiums are being planned in the new cities in the northern parts of Kuwait, at a total cost of KD1.7 billion,” he stated.

While the budget is ambitious, we need projects that provide long-term benefits, help maintain our competitive edge, and create job opportunities for the estimated 25,000 new graduates entering the workforce each year.

As part of its ongoing efforts to support the private sector and strengthen the sustainability of Qatari businesses, Qatar Development Bank (QDB) has announced the launch of its Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) program. The strategic initiative offers integrated solutions to companies seeking growth, access to new opportunities, strategic partnerships, or structured and efficient exit strategies. The program facilitates both mergers—combining two or more companies to create stronger, more competitive entities—and acquisitions, where one company acquires another in whole or in part. It delivers a suite of specialized services designed to enhance competitiveness and promote a more sustainable business environment across various industries in Qatar.

The M&A Program is one of QDB’s innovative offerings tailored to support SMEs, private enterprises, and Qatari factories at different stages of their business lifecycle. It provides a full range of advisory services backed by a clear methodology, enabling companies to identify and pursue the most suitable merger or acquisition opportunities. Through the program, QDB covers up to 70% of advisory service costs via a dedicated M&A Minha (grant). Companies can list their opportunities on the newly developed M&A portal—an interactive platform that connects businesses and investors with certified experts and advisors. This allows companies to unlock new opportunities for growth, expansion, and sector-specific matchmaking.

QDB CEO Mr. Abdulrahman bin Hesham Al-Sowaidi emphasized that the program addresses the evolving needs of the Qatari market and aligns with the bank’s strategic focus on innovative solutions to boost competitiveness and the growth of Qatari companies. “The program aims to diversify funding sources and attract both individual and corporate investors seeking partial or full acquisitions of businesses looking to offer their shares. It also supports companies in achieving their strategic goals—whether through expansion, improved operational efficiency, or successful exits. At Qatar Development Bank, we are committed to providing comprehensive, integrated solutions that support businesses at every stage of their development.”

The M&A journey is structured into three main steps. The initial evaluation step involves assessing the company’s financial and operational data to determine its market value, business goals, and strategic direction. Next is Company Listing on the M&A Portal, where the company is showcased on the portal to connect with potential investors or buyers. Finally, Negotiating and Completing M&A, which includes entering negotiations, finalizing the merger or acquisition, and agreeing on the deal terms.

Mergers and Acquisitions Portal Benefits

Through the M&A program and its dedicated portal, QDB offers an end-to-end support ecosystem—from initial planning to deal completion—along with accurate business valuations. The portal enables companies to create professional, secure listings with detailed profiles, while maintaining high standards of privacy and confidentiality. Expert guidance is also available to help determine accurate market valuations.

For investors, the portal provides a streamlined path to new acquisition opportunities. It offers access to pre-vetted companies, allows comparison of multiple profiles, speeding up the matching process.