Lando Norris wins F1 world title in Abu Dhabi despite Verstappen’s GP win

Al Ghurair Mobility has signed an exclusive distribution agreement with Chery Group to introduce Karry, Chery’s global light commercial vehicle brand, to the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

This agreement further strengthens the strategic partnership between Al Ghurair Mobility and Chery Group, building on their earlier collaboration to distribute RELY, Chery’s global pickup brand, in the UAE. Extending the collaboration with Chery Group reflects the deepening relationship and mutual trust between the two companies, and further enhances Al Ghurair Mobility’s ability to support the country’s rapidly growing logistics and transport sectors. Together, Al Ghurair Mobility and Chery Group reaffirm their commitment to developing a diversified, future-ready commercial mobility portfolio aligned with the evolving needs of the regional market.

This agreement also marks a significant milestone as the UAE becomes a key strategic market for Karry’s regional expansion. Specialising in light commercial vehicles including vans, mini trucks and logistics-focused mobility solutions, Karry is designed to support the evolving needs of businesses operating across last-mile delivery, logistics, construction and urban mobility.

“This partnership underscores our long-term commitment to advancing commercial mobility in the UAE,” said John Iossifidis, Group Chief Executive Officer of Al Ghurair. “Expanding our collaboration with Chery Group to include Karry enhances our ability to support the country’s rapidly growing logistics and transport sectors.”

Oscar Rivoli, Chief Executive Officer, Motors, Al Ghurair Mobility, said: “Karry brings a compelling proposition to the UAE’s commercial vehicle landscape. Its product range is purpose-built for real-world business use, with a strong focus on reliability, efficiency and total cost of ownership. Together with RELY, Karry allows us to address a broader spectrum of commercial mobility requirements across fleets, SMEs and specialised operators.”

She Cairong, President of Chery Commercial Vehicle International, said: “The expansion of our partnership with Al Ghurair to include Karry reflects our shared vision for long-term growth in the UAE and wider region. Building on the introduction of RELY, Karry strengthens our commercial vehicle offering with versatile and intelligent solutions designed to meet the evolving demands of modern businesses.”

As part of Chery Group’s commercial vehicle portfolio, Karry integrates proven engineering, intelligent design and flexible configurations to meet a wide range of commercial applications. With the UAE as a strategic entry point, the brand is positioned to support regional demand for efficient, scalable and future-ready commercial mobility solutions.

Coursera Inc., a leading global online learning platform, in partnership with international market research consultancy Censuswide, announced findings from a comprehensive nationwide survey assessing the impact of AI on higher education in Saudi Arabia.

This study, part of a broader five-country analysis including Mexico, India, the USA, and the UK, reveals extensive AI integration into academic routines in the Kingdom’s higher education institutions. A strong majority of students and educators (91%) view AI’s impact positively, with 86% of students reporting that their grades have improved since using AI.

Forty-one percent described AI’s impact as “very positive”. Respondents pointed to clear benefits, including personalized learning (43%) and improved quality and rigor of educational assessment (83%). Among educators, 36% said AI reduces time spent on administrative tasks or planning, allowing for greater one-to-one student interaction. Others highlighted gains included increased productivity and efficiency (33%), and reduced human error in marking and grading, alongside real-time feedback (31%).

The survey shows that students in the Kingdom are using AI across multiple stages of the learning journey, from content creation and research to exam preparation and study planning. Nearly half of students use AI for exam revision (44%) and to generate practice tests or exams (42%), while others rely on it for writing assignments or essays (41%) and supporting research activities (41%). Beyond academic tasks, 38% also use AI for time management, reflecting its growing role in helping students organize and manage their studies more effectively.

Despite this broad adoption and positive outlook, the Coursera study also highlights opportunities for further development and areas needing strategic focus. A substantial 77% of respondents recognize the need for the higher education system to further evolve its frameworks to fully integrate AI. Respondents pointed to specific areas where higher education systems will need to adapt, particularly by strengthening academic integrity (26%), developing clearer approaches to data privacy (33%), and preserving the long-term value of degrees as AI use becomes more widespread (24%).

This presents an interesting dynamic: while 85% acknowledge AI can support exam preparation, a significant 79% also perceive that using AI for university work raises questions of academic integrity. Respondents emphasized key priorities requiring stronger safeguards, including protecting human interaction and interpersonal skills (33%) and maintaining rigorous quality control in marking and grading (33%). They also signaled the importance of establishing guidelines to prevent instances of academic misconduct such as plagiarism (31%), addressing potential bias in marking and grading (27%), and preparing for shifts in future job markets (23%).

The data further reveals a high reliance on AI, with 78% of students reporting that they rely on AI to complete between 21% and 70% of their academic work. This reliance, coupled with 81% believing AI will make many degrees obsolete within a decade, underscores an urgent need for universities to embed AI literacy and ethical frameworks to responsibly harness AI’s potential in higher education institutions.

“AI is already part of how students learn and how educators teach across Saudi Arabia’s higher education system, and the data shows significant gains in learning outcomes and efficiency,” said Kais Zribi, Coursera’s General Manager for the Middle East and Africa. “What this research makes clear is that adoption is moving faster than the frameworks needed to support it. The opportunity now is for institutions to strengthen academic integrity, build AI literacy, and ensure credentials continue to signal real-world readiness. As AI becomes foundational to education and work, collaboration across the education ecosystem is essential to help students and educators develop the skills and judgment needed to use these tools responsibly and effectively.”

Silicon Valley is filled with all sorts of dreams. But one of those wild-eyed ideas, long debated on subreddits and in hacker houses, is becoming a real-life nightmare: Will the AI boom be the last chance to get rich before artificial intelligence makes money essentially worthless?

The argument is that tech companies (and their leaders) will become a class unto their own with infinite wealth. No one else will have the means to generate money for themselves because AI will have taken their jobs and opportunities.

BMW Group Middle East has closed 2025 with another year of robust and sustainable growth across its portfolio (BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad), building on the exceptional results recorded in 2024. The region’s strong demand for innovation and performance has propelled the BMW brand to a 10% year-on-year increase in sales further cementing the Middle East as a key growth market.

In the luxury segment, the BMW 7 Series continued its strong performance, posting a 1.3% year-on-year increase, underscoring sustained demand within the upper premium segment. Meanwhile, BMW M High Performance vehicles experienced a landmark year with a 38% surge in sales, an all-time regional record, driven by growing customer enthusiasm and an expanding M portfolio.

The MINI brand also upheld its upward trajectory, achieving a 16% increase in sales and reaching an all-time high in the Middle East. This growth was powered by strong demand for John Cooper Works (JCW) models and the rising popularity of MINI’s battery electric vehicles (BEVs).

Corporate Sales (BMW and MINI) reached its highest performance ever in 2025, with an impressive 28% year-on-year growth. This achievement reflects the solid and close collaboration between BMW Group Middle East and its importer partners in the region. Having now established a strong foundation for this segment, BMW Group Middle East is committed to maintaining this momentum into 2026.

Electrified vehicles gained notable traction in the fourth quarter of 2025, laying a strong foundation for the upcoming year. The introduction of the “Neue Klasse” BMW iX3 later in 2026 is set to mark a new era in BMW’s electric vehicle strategy in the Middle East.

Beyond vehicle sales, BMW Group Middle East’s Customer Support Services recorded an 8.2% growth compared to 2024, underscoring the enduring trust customers place in BMW’s authorized service network. The Group has further enhanced the ownership experience through innovative initiatives such as the ConnectedDrive platform, BMW and MINI Proactive Care, and the “Relax. We Care” program. Together with multiple digital touchpoints, these initiatives position BMW as a leader in delivering convenient, high-quality aftersales services in the region, offering customers with uncompromising, proactive care.

BMW Motorrad also concluded 2025 on a high note, delivering the highest ever recorded sales result in the Middle East, driven by a 9% increase in private customer sales strengthening its position in the premium motorcycle segment.

This strong performance is supported by the ongoing transformation and expansion of the BMW Group Middle East Retail Network. The rollout of the new Corporate Identity, “Retail.Next” introduces a customer-centric concept that creates an open and flexible environment, delivering the most convenient and engaging customer journey in a welcoming space closely connected to BMW Group products.

In 2025, BMW Group Middle East, in collaboration with its local importer partners, successfully entered new markets and inaugurated several Retail.Next facilities, achieving significant milestones in regional retail expansion and transformation. These state-of-the-art Retail.Next facilities, infused with regional character, have also succeeded in captivating enthusiasts of BMW M and luxury products alike.

Through this expansion, BMW Group Middle East is not only growing its network within the region but also significantly enhancing the customer experience. Beyond infrastructure, these advanced facilities serve as hubs for nurturing local talent, reinforcing the Group’s commitment to developing skilled professionals who uphold BMW’s standards of excellence. This comprehensive approach to sales channel development plays a vital role in sustaining growth and strengthening BMW’s leadership position in the Middle East.

Commenting on the results, Karim-Christian Haririan, Managing Director of BMW Group Middle East, said: “2025 marks another outstanding milestone for BMW Group Middle East, with double-digit growth building on the exceptional performance of the previous year. This achievement is a testament to the strength and resilience of our strategic vision, the breadth of our portfolio, and, most importantly, the invaluable partnership with our importer network across the region. Their dedication and operational excellence have been instrumental in driving sustainable growth and expanding our market presence.

We are deeply grateful to our customers for their continued trust and loyalty, which inspire us to relentlessly pursue excellence across all facets of our business. Together with our partners, we remain committed to advancing innovation and delivering unparalleled premium experiences.”

Looking ahead to 2026, BMW Group Middle East remains confident as it continues to focus strategically on luxury, high-performance, and electrified vehicles, supported by ongoing investments in customer experience and retail development. The Group is also preparing to expand its regional footprint with plans to enter the Syrian market, with official details on importer appointments to be announced in due course.

Electric air taxis developed by Joby Aviation are set to begin commercial operations in Dubai by the end of this year, Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority Chairman Mattar Al Tayer said

Joby Aviation conducted the first test flight of its fully electric air taxi in the emirate in June 2025, a major milestone in Dubai’s efforts to introduce them into its existing transport networks.

The Joby Aerial Taxi, the flagship electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft developed by the California-based company, can fly distances of up to 160 kilometers (100 miles) at speeds reaching 320km/hr (200mph).

With zero operating emissions, Joby’s air taxi is designed to be both eco-friendly and quiet enough for commercial use in dense urban areas.

In early 2024, Joby signed a contract with Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority that awarded the company exclusive rights to operate aerial taxis in the city for the next six years.

Among the primary reasons for establishing a Security Operations Center (SOC) are strengthening cybersecurity posture, enabling faster detection and response and gaining a competitive edge. Interestingly, despite the increasing demand for automated cybersecurity solutions, businesses rely on skilled security professionals to make key decisions, as human expertise remains essential for effective security management.

A Security Operations Center (SOC) is a dedicated organizational unit responsible for continuous monitoring and safeguarding of a company’s IT infrastructure. Its core mission is to proactively detect, analyze and respond to cybersecurity threats. To identify the main drivers, strategic priorities, and potential challenges in SOC planning and implementation, Kaspersky has conducted a comprehensive global study involving senior IT security specialists, managers and directors from companies with 500 or more employees. All participants operate without a SOC but have plans to establish one in the near future. The study spans 16 countries across APAC, META, LATAM, Europe, and Russia, including the Middle East, providing valuable insights into the emerging trends and best practices in SOC development worldwide.

The findings of the research reveal that 48% of companies in the Middle East intend to establish SOCs to strengthen their cybersecurity posture, and 41% are motivated by the need to address increasingly sophisticated and dangerous threats. Other drivers include  budget optimization (45%), the necessity for faster detection and response (40%), and the expansion of software, endpoints and user devices (44%) – factors that demand more comprehensive and layered security measures. Additionally, 38% seek better protection of confidential information, 39% aim to meet regulatory requirements and (34%) expect SOC capabilities to provide a competitive edge. Larger enterprises tend to cite each of these reasons more often, reflecting the broader operational and regulatory pressures they experience.

Continuous monitoring becomes the leading SOC requirement

Among the key functions organizations in the Middle East plan to delegate, 24/7 security monitoring leads at 56%. This around-the-clock vigilance enables early detection of anomalies, prevents escalation and sustains cyber resilience in real time. This demand highlights a strategic requirement for proactive risk management, as organizations aim to defend against persistent threats that can strike at any moment.

Companies intending to fully outsource SOC operations show a stronger interest in applying “lessons learned” methodologies, whereas those developing internal SOCs focus more on access management to maintain tighter control.

Human expertise drives SOC technology choices

While SOCs use advanced technology, the choices made by organizations in the Middle East show that human analysts are very important. Among the solutions that organizations plan to include in SOC are – Threat Intelligence Platforms (49%), Endpoint Detection and Response (30%) and Security Information and Event Management systems (42%) – are sophisticated solutions that automate data collection and reduce operational load, however, they depend heavily on skilled security professionals who provide critical context, interpret complex findings and make final decision when guiding appropriate responses.

Other solutions chosen include Extended Detection and Response (35%), Network Detection and Response (41%) and Managed Detection and Response (35%). Large enterprises tend to adopt more technologies (5.5 per SOC on average), while smaller ones integrate fewer (3.8).

“To successfully build a SOC, companies must prioritize not only the right mix of technology but also the careful planning of processes, clear goal-setting and effective resource distribution. Well-defined workflows and continuous improvement are essential to ensure that human analysts can focus on critical tasks, making the SOC a proactive and adaptable component of their cybersecurity strategy,” comments Roman Nazarov, Head of SOC Consulting at Kaspersky. 

To successfully establish and effectively maintain your SOC, Kaspersky recommends the following:

• Equip your cybersecurity team with in-depth visibility into cyber threats relevant to your organization. The latest Kaspersky Threat Intelligence delivers rich, contextual insights throughout the entire incident management cycle, enabling timely identification of cyber risks.
• Engage with Kaspersky SOC Consulting during the initial setup or when enhancing your existing security operations.
• Boost your security performance with  Kaspersky SIEM, powered by advanced AI capabilities. This solution aggregates, analyzes and stores log data across your entire IT infrastructure, providing contextual enrichment and actionable threat intelligence insights.
• Protect your company against a wide range of threats with solutions such as from the Kaspersky Next product line that provide real-time protection, threat visibility, investigation and response capabilities of EDR and XDR for organizations of any size and industry. 

OMEGA opens 2026 with two new Speedmaster Moonwatch timepieces, each reinterpreting the classic chronograph look with an inverted dial configuration.

The new models are crafted with the Moonwatch’s essential step dial, which is put together with a double plate. The top plate is polished black, with a varnished and lacquered finish for superior sheen, and includes rhodium-plated subdial frames. Meanwhile, the base layer for the subdials is produced in white, also with a varnished and lacquered finish. The minute track is transferred in white on the main dial, while the subdials feature minute tracks transferred in black. A detail consistent across both versions that enhances the reversed aesthetic and legibility.

In combination with the black and white dial, the new watches include black ceramic bezel rings filled with a tachymeter scale in white enamel. The front features a box-form scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective treatment. Around the wrist, the watches are distinguished by their polished-brushed bracelets, created in the standard Moonwatch style with OMEGA’s patented comfort release adjustment system.

The two 42 mm choices within the range include:

• A version in stainless steel. All the hands and hour markers are rhodium-plated with white Super-LumiNova.
• A version in 18K Moonshine™ Gold, OMEGA’s own long-lasting yellow gold alloy. The dial includes hour-minute hands, subdial hands, and hour markers all in 18K Moonshine™ Gold with white Super-LumiNova, as well as a central chronograph hand in PVD Moonshine™ Gold.

These Speedmaster Moonwatch professional timepieces are each powered by the OMEGA Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 3861 – the most advanced evolution of the famous Calibre 321 that NASA astronauts trusted on the Moon. This mechanical quality allows the watches to receive a 5-year warranty, along with Master Chronometer certification which guarantees the Swiss industry’s highest standard of precision, performance, and magnetic resistance.

The Lighting Innovation Summit – Riyadh (2nd Edition) will take place on 02 February 2026 at Radisson Blu Hotel, Riyadh, bringing together the region’s leading lighting designers, architects, developers, consultants, and technology providers to explore the future of lighting in the built environment.

Following a successful inaugural edition, the Summit returns at a critical moment as Saudi Arabia accelerates smart city development, sustainable infrastructure, and human-centric design under Vision 2030. The event will spotlight how lighting innovation is transforming urban spaces, buildings, public realms, and large-scale developments across the Kingdom.

A Platform for Decision-Makers and Solution Providers

The Lighting Innovation Summit is designed as a focused, high-value forum for professionals actively shaping lighting projects across architecture, infrastructure, and urban development. Key discussion areas include:

• Smart and connected lighting systems
• Energy-efficient and sustainable lighting technologies
• Architectural and façade illumination
• Urban and public realm lighting
• Human-centric and wellbeing-focused design

The Summit will feature expert-led sessions, practical case studies, and strategic insights from industry leaders working on some of the region’s most ambitious projects.

Why Attend or Partner

For solution providers, manufacturers, consultants, and technology companies, the Summit offers direct access to decision-makers responsible for specifying, designing, and delivering lighting solutions across Saudi Arabia’s growing pipeline of developments.

Participants will benefit from:

• High-quality networking with senior industry stakeholders
• Exposure to upcoming projects and procurement priorities
• Opportunities to showcase solutions to an engaged, relevant audience
• Brand positioning within the Kingdom’s lighting and smart infrastructure ecosystem

Registration and Partnership Opportunities

Delegate passes are complimentary and subject to eligibility. Exhibition, sponsorship, and speaking opportunities are available in limited numbers.

Join the companies shaping Saudi Arabia’s lighting future. To participate, click here.

Kaspersky analyzed phishing and scam campaigns observed from January through September 2025 and found that 88.5% of attacks sought credentials for various online accounts. Another 9.5% targeted personal data such as names, addresses, and dates of birth, while 2% focused on bank card details.

According to data from Kaspersky, over 47 million phishing links were clicked in the Middle East region in the previous year (from November 2024 to October 2025) – all of which were detected and blocked by Kaspersky solutions. Not everyone uses protective solutions on their devices however, and phishing remains one of the most prevalent cyber threats, with attackers luring users to fake websites where they unwittingly surrender their login credentials, personal information, or bank card details.

Distribution of attacks by type of data being targeted

Kaspersky research shows that most phishing pages transmit stolen information via email, Telegram bots, or attacker-controlled panels, before it enters underground resale channels.

Data stolen through phishing is rarely used only once: credentials from multiple campaigns are consolidated into data dumps and sold on dark web markets, in some cases for as little as $50. Buyers sort and verify the data to check whether accounts remain active and reusable across different services. According to Kaspersky Digital Footprint Intelligence, average 2025 prices ranged from $0.90 for global internet portals to $105 for crypto platforms and $350 for online banking access. Personal documents such as passports or ID cards sold for about $15 on average, with pricing influenced by account age, balance, linked payment methods, and security settings.

As datasets are enriched and combined, attackers can build detailed digital profiles that may later support targeted attacks on executives, finance staff, IT-administrators or individuals with valuable assets or personal documents.

“Our analysis shows that credentials account for nearly 90% of phishing attempts. Once collected, logins, passwords, phone numbers, and personal details are aggregated, checked, and resold, sometimes years after the initial theft. Combined with new information, even old credentials can enable account takeovers and targeted attacks against both individuals and organizations. By leveraging open-source intelligence and old breach data, attackers can craft highly personalized scams, turning one-time victims into long-term targets for identity theft, blackmail, or financial fraud,” said Olga Altukhova, senior web content analyst at Kaspersky.

To reduce the risks associated with phishing, users should follow a few safety recommendations:

• Do not trust links or attachments received by email or messages. Always check the sender carefully before opening anything.
• Double-check websites before entering any personal or financial information. Make sure the URL is correct and watch for spelling errors or visual inconsistencies.
• Even when precautions are in place, review bank and card statements regularly and report any suspicious transactions to your financial institution immediately.
• If account credentials are stolen, change the password for the affected account and for any other services where the same or similar password was used. Use a unique password for each account.
• To stay protected, install a comprehensive cybersecurity solution. Kaspersky Premium protects users from fraudulent activities through advanced detection technology that analyzes website characteristics and URLs to identify suspicious patterns.
• Enable multi-factor authentication for all accounts that support it.
• Check account login history and active sessions regularly and terminate any suspicious activity.
• If a messaging or social media account is compromised, inform contacts that fraudulent messages may be sent in your name.

Polygreen, a leading provider of global circular economy solutions, is launching “Again, Please”, a reusable food ware system aimed at replacing single-use plastics, during the World Future Energy Summit (WFES) at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi, as the UAE accelerates its transition towards a circular economy.

As part of the launch, Again, Please hot and cold reusable cups will be used across participating exhibitors at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi throughout WFES, demonstrating the practical application of reusable food ware at one of the region’s largest sustainability events. The brand is also exhibiting under the Polygreen stand, highlighting the role of circular infrastructure in reducing waste at scale.

The launch coincides with the UAE’s recent legislation to phase out single-use plastic products, reinforcing national efforts to shift towards more sustainable consumption models and circular economy solutions.

Athanasios Polychronopoulos, Chairman and Group Chief Executive Officer at Polygreen, said: “The UAE has taken decisive steps to address plastic waste through regulation and policy. Again, Please demonstrates how policy, infrastructure, and proven reusable packaging solutions which support behavioral change can work together. By replacing single-use cups with a practical, scalable reuse model, we are helping business partners move from intention to direct impact.”

Again, Please is a reverse logistics (closed loop) reusable food ware packaging solution designed for events, exhibitions, entertainment venues, and F&B operators. The system goes beyond cups, offering tailored reusable packaging formats supported by end-to-end infrastructure, including collection points, logistics, industrial washing, and redeployment, ensuring hygiene, convenience, and operational efficiency.

A key component of the system is the Again, Please wash hub located in the Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi. The facility, a first of its kind in the UAE, enables high-volume, food-grade washing and rapid turnaround, ensuring reusable packaging is safely returned to circulation.

“Our goal with Again, Please is to make reuse simple, accessible, and commercially viable. By providing the full infrastructure behind the scenes, from washing and logistics to on-ground deployment, we enable HoReCa operators and venues to move away from single-use food ware while elevating their customer experience”, added Theodossios Kassapantoniou, General Manager of Again, Please.

Prior to its official launch at WFES, Again, Please was piloted across several events in Abu Dhabi, where the system demonstrated high return rates and strong consumer participation, in line with the implemented international best practices.

By replacing disposable food ware with reusable alternatives, the system helps partners reduce waste sent to landfill, lower the carbon footprint associated with single-use production, and generate measurable ESG outcomes.

The launch of Again, Please at WFES reflects the growing role of reusable food ware in supporting the UAE’s sustainability agenda, including waste reduction targets, circular economy frameworks, and public-private collaboration.

London Business School (LBS) has announced three senior appointments to lead its newly opened Executive Education Office in Riyadh as the School deepens its long-term commitment to supporting leadership and human-capability development in Saudi Arabia. 

The new senior hires are:

• Tim Landucci, Head of Office (Saudi Arabia); Director of Corporate Community 
• Roger Attieh, Client Director, Saudi Arabia 
• Monika Radia, Operations Director, Saudi Arabia 

Tim Landucci, Head of Office (Saudi Arabia); Director of Corporate Community

Tim brings 16 years’ experience in the business school sector across senior marketing, operations and business development roles, working with more than 20 global institutions on strategic initiatives. Since joining London Business School in 2023 to lead the creation of LBS Corporate 100, a cross-sector community of brands and institutions united by a commitment to confront the challenges shaping the future of business. Tim has driven the School’s corporate engagement agenda. As Head of Office (Saudi Arabia), Tim will have overall responsibility for the Riyadh office’s business operations, partnerships and service quality and will help shape new services tailored to regional needs. 

“I am delighted to have the opportunity to support the launch of our new office in Saudi Arabia and work with our team to establish a strong presence in the region,” said Tim Landucci. “I am particularly excited about developing partnerships and deepening our understanding of the regional landscape to evolve the services we provide and increase the impact we have for our clients.”

Roger Attieh, Client Director, Saudi Arabia

Roger has over 12 years’ experience in executive education and leadership development across the Gulf, with a strong focus on Saudi Arabia. He will lead LBS’s client relationships in the Kingdom, managing a strategic portfolio to deliver measurable business impact and ensuring world-class delivery aligned with the School’s ambitions in the region.

Commenting on his new role, Roger said, “I’m delighted to serve leaders in Saudi Arabia at a moment of extraordinary change. Contributing to LBS’s mission here in Riyadh, where ambition and transformation are redefining the future, is both an honor and an opportunity to help expand the School’s footprint and impact.”

Monika Radia, Operations Director, Saudi Arabia

Monika is an experienced executive education professional with over 10 years of delivering large-scale leadership initiatives across Saudi Arabia and wider Gulf region. At LBS she has overseen complex program portfolios with a focus on governance, commercial performance and senior stakeholder engagement, while building strong, trusted relationships with clients. In her new role she will lead operational delivery for LBS’s Executive Education portfolio in Saudi Arabia, strengthening national partnerships, deepening client engagement and ensuring seamless execution of high-impact programs that support Vision 2030. “I am honored to take on this role in Saudi Arabia,” said Monika Radia. “Establishing London Business School’s operational presence in Riyadh presents an important opportunity to deepen our engagement, strengthen partnerships and enhance the impact of our work on the ground.”

Wa’ad Alshathly, an experienced office manager from Saudi Arabia also joins the team, providing office administration and day-to-day operational support for the Riyadh office.

Why this expansion matters

LBS opened a regional presence in the Middle East with its Dubai campus in 2007 and has steadily increased engagement with Saudi organizations and leaders. The School’s Executive Education Office is located in Diriyah, Riyadh and was officially opened in November 2025. The Riyadh office will enable LBS to scale local delivery and co-design programs with partners. It will reinforce the School’s role in supporting organizations and people that are playing a key role in realizing the ambitions of Saudi Vision 2030, through the development of their human capability.

LBS has seen substantial growth in participation from Saudi executives across its executive education and degree programs. Through strategic collaborations with organizations such as the Diriyah Company, Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC) and BSF, the School aims to support the development of thousands of leaders in the Kingdom and work with leading public and private sector organizations, to drive long-term people-centered transformation.

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars closed 2025 with a landmark year for its Bespoke division, reaching new creative, technical, and commercial heights. Client commissions reflected deeply personal stories, cultural symbolism, and contemporary collectibles, driving record demand across the brand’s global Private Office network, where Bespoke commissions more than doubled year-on-year.

The year saw major innovations in materials and craftsmanship, including three-dimensional embroidery and marquetry, layered ink printing, 24-carat gold leafing, polished concrete finishes, and fully hand-painted Starlight Headliners. These advances culminated in the Phantom Centenary Private Collection, the most complex and ambitious Bespoke project in the marque’s history, created to mark 100 years of the Phantom nameplate.

Cullinan emerged as the most requested model of 2025, followed closely by the all-electric Spectre, while commissions for luxury lifestyle accessories also rose significantly. To meet growing Bespoke and Coachbuild demand, Rolls-Royce continued work on a £300m+ expansion of its Goodwood site, set to enhance production capacity and creative capabilities in the coming years.

The Middle East & Africa played a central role in this success, hosting major Phantom centenary celebrations and regional debuts, including Black Badge Spectre. Strategic dealer expansions in Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Egypt further strengthened Rolls-Royce’s presence, reinforcing the region’s position as a global benchmark for Bespoke luxury and a key driver of the marque’s future growth.

Kaspersky‘s new research reveals that 64% of online shoppers in the UAE believe they can detect fraud on their own, while only 51% actually use security software to protect their payments and block malicious links. Experts consider this a major risk for online buyers. Over the past year Kaspersky identified nearly 6.7 million phishing attacks impersonating online stores, payment systems, and banks, with 55.6% targeting online shoppers.

As the winter sales season approaches, Kaspersky conducted a survey to examine consumer cybersecurity practices employed during online shopping in the UAE. The findings show that 99% of respondents demonstrate a substantial level of awareness of online security risks and implement at least some measures to safeguard their digital transactions.

However, the survey found that more than half the participants in the UAE (51%) use dedicated security software to block phishing attempts and protect payment transactions. This concerning trend is particularly pronounced among the older generation (55+), with only 32% of respondents in this age group actually using security software when making online purchases.

The most commonly adopted security protocols include being vigilant about potential warning signs, such as suspicious hyperlinks or unusual website design (64%) and verifying seller authenticity (64%). Kaspersky experts emphasize that while these practices are essential protective measures for online shopping, they constitute only foundational protection strategies rather than the comprehensive fraud prevention provided by a security solution. 

Other steps that could protect online shoppers, like using a separate credit card for digital purchases or using a separate email address to register with unfamiliar online shops, were chosen by 37% and 34% of survey participants, respectively. Meanwhile, 39% claimed to consult with friends and relatives before making a purchase. Interestingly, this option is highly popular among the younger generation, with 37% opting for it, while it is less common among older people (21%).

“Throughout the year, we’ve observed that online shoppers have consistently been one of the most desirable targets for scammers. During sales periods, their scams can become even more pervasive. Staying vigilant is crucial, but protecting yourself requires more than just awareness. It is particularly concerning how scammers are now using AI to craft more sophisticated, targeted phishing attempts that are increasingly difficult for regular users to recognize,” comments Olga Altukhova, Senior Web Content Analyst at Kaspersky. 

Sales seasons are peak times for scammers. To protect yourself against emerging threats, implement the following security practices:

• Don’t save your full credit card details on websites unless absolutely necessary.
• Consider using a separate debit card specifically for online purchases and set up transaction alerts on your bank and credit card accounts.
• Be extra cautious of “flash sales” that seem too good to be true. Watch out for websites that pressure you into making quick decisions, and be wary of sellers who refuse returns or exchanges.
• Use different passwords for each online account and enable two-factor authentication wherever possible.
• Apply a security solution with a strong anti-phishing component. For instance, Kaspersky Premium received the annual ‘Approved’ certification from the leading testing lab AV-Comparatives in 2025 for detecting 93% of phishing URLs, demonstrating outstanding anti-phishing capabilities, powered by AI technology.
• Scammers constantly evolve their methods, so staying informed about new phishing techniques can help you recognize and avoid them. Security blog will help you keep your finger on the pulse of emerging cyberthreats.

*The study was conducted by Kaspersky’s market research center in November 2025. A total of 3000 respondents from 15 countries (Argentina, Chile, China, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Malaysia, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Spain, Turkey, the United Kingdom, and the United Arab Emirates) took part in the survey.

The cybersecurity landscape in the UAE is evolving rapidly, with organizations seeking more robust ways to protect their digital assets. A recent global study conducted by Kaspersky reveals a growing shift toward proactive security strategies, particularly the adoption of Secure by Design development and Cyber Immunity – an innovative approach that embeds resilience directly into system architecture.

The study highlights that 94% of cybersecurity professionals in the UAE are familiar with Secure by Design development. This methodology integrates security into the very fabric of a system from its inception, rather than treating it as an afterthought. Such an approach is already employed in high-stakes industries like aerospace, where security cannot be bolted on later – it must be intrinsic. Despite its advantages, however, adoption has been slow due to challenges related to standardization and cost.

Cyber Immunity is the next frontier in cybersecurity

Building on Secure by Design principles, Cyber Immunity takes cybersecurity a step further by creating systems that inherently resist attacks without the need for constant patching or additional security layers. The study reveals that most experts are familiar with Cyber Immunity but interpret it differently. When asked what they associate with the term, 78% linked it to Secure by Design systems that remain resilient under attack, while 64% viewed it as a combination of technology and policy measures that block cybercriminal access. Another 40% connected it to highly skilled cybersecurity teams, indicating that while awareness is high, a unified understanding is still developing.

The growing demand for proactive security

One of the most striking findings is the optimism surrounding inherently secure systems. Over half of respondents (70%) believe it is already possible or definitely achievable to design systems capable of withstanding cyberattacks without relying on additional security solutions. Another 24% think it might be possible, reflecting openness to this idea despite some uncertainty. This shift in mindset aligns with a broader industry trend: traditional reactive security measures are no longer sufficient. With AI-powered threats and increasingly sophisticated attacks, organizations need solutions that do more than just detect breaches—they must prevent them by design.

Integrating Cyber Immunity into security strategies

The study emphasizes that resilience, expertise, and flexibility will define the next generation of cybersecurity. While Secure by Design provides the methodology, Cyber Immunity represents the ultimate goal—systems so robust that they minimize reliance on external defenses.

“For companies looking ahead, Cyber Immunity offers more than just protection — it brings clear business benefits. When systems are built to be secure from the ground up, there’s less need for constant updates, patches, and extra security tools. That means fewer costs, less strain on IT teams, and stronger, more reliable protection over time,” said Dmitry Lukiyan, Head of KasperskyOS Business Unit.

Most importantly in today’s threat landscape, Cyber Immunity offers robust protection against next-generation challenges — including AI-driven attacks capable of outmaneuvering traditional security measures. When security becomes an intrinsic property of system architecture rather than an external addition, businesses gain more than just protection—they secure a competitive market advantage. This proactive approach future-proofs critical infrastructure, enabling organizations to operate confidently even as threats evolve. It transforms cybersecurity from a defensive necessity into a strategic differentiator that accelerates digital transformation while mitigating risk.

As the cybersecurity environment becomes more complex, Cyber Immunity is emerging as a vital strategy. Organizations that adopt it now will not only enhance their protection but also position themselves ahead of the curve in an increasingly volatile digital world.

Huawei Cloud hosted the Saudi Arabia Partner Day, Recruitment & Appreciation Gala at the InterContinental Riyadh, bringing together more than 150 partners from across the Kingdom. The event highlighted Huawei Cloud’s instrumental role in building one of Saudi Arabia’s fastest-growing cloud ecosystems, directly contributing to the Kingdom’s ambitious digital transformation across industries.

The event reaffirmed Huawei Cloud’s long-term commitment to its local partners, focusing on enablement, innovation, and shared growth. Participants reflected on a year of significant ecosystem development and aligned on future opportunities to drive measurable impact for customers in Saudi Arabia.

“Our partners are the cornerstone of Huawei Cloud’s success in Saudi Arabia,” said Lawrence Liu, CEO of Huawei Cloud Saudi Arabia. “By deeply investing in our community, empowering partners with right policies, cutting-edge solutions, and strong incentives, we are jointly building a sustainable cloud future that delivers real value to customers and supports the Kingdom’s transformative journey.”

Discussions throughout the event centered on strengthening the partner network and fostering long-term success. Huawei Cloud shared key updates on its ecosystem strategy in Saudi Arabia, detailing continued investment, partner-focused policies, and scalable cloud solutions designed to enable partners to grow profitably and build sustainable businesses. Yong Hu, Director of Partner Development at Huawei Cloud Saudi Arabia, elaborated on the ecosystem’s evolution over the past year, highlighting how close collaboration with partners drives differentiation, supports innovation, and creates measurable customer impact across industries.

The maturity and success of the ecosystem were reflected in partner success stories. Points Information Technology demonstrated a live avatar empowered by Huawei AI solution unlocked new market opportunities and sustainable growth, while Raqmeyat shared its experience in executing effective digital marketing strategies to accelerate demand generation and business expansion. Ejada Systems Company, MDS for Computer Systems, BTC (Baud Telecom Company) and NAS Solutions also shared their journeys, underscoring the breadth and diversity of Huawei Cloud’s partner landscape in Saudi Arabia.

Partner excellence was a key highlight of the gathering, with Huawei Cloud recognizing more than 15 partners for their exceptional performance and contributions to the ecosystem. Among the recognitions, BTC (Baud Telecom Company) was named Outstanding Growth Partner, while MDS for Computer Systems and Ejada Systems Company received the Outstanding Revenue Partner award, highlighting their significant contributions to development growth and customer success.

With a rapidly expanding partner network and a clear focus on innovation, enablement, and shared success, Huawei Cloud continues to reinforce its role as a trusted cloud partner in Saudi Arabia,