Parmigiani Fleurier Launches New Ladies Timepiece: Tonda PF Automatic, Deep Ruby Dial

Day 4 of GITEX GLOBAL 2025 set another benchmark for digital collaboration as policymakers, cybersecurity leaders, and innovators convened to address the most pressing question of the intelligent age – how to secure a world powered by AI and data. While cybersecurity and resilience dominated the day’s discourse, the show floor remained a convergence of cutting-edge innovation across AI, cloud, data centres, robotics, and quantum computing, underlining GITEX’s unrivalled breadth and impact.

As digital transformation accelerates, speakers called for a unified global response that firmly plants security, ethics, and trust at the core of AI-driven progress. The 45th edition of GITEX GLOBAL continues driving business transformation and investments until tomorrow, 17 October 2025, converging more than 6,800 exhibitors, 2,000 startups, 1,200 investors, and delegations from over 180 countries at Dubai World Trade Centre.

Cyber Resilience: Building Trust in the Age of Intelligence

Opening the day’s program, H.E. Omar Sultan Al Olama, UAE Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications, highlighted the significance of the gathering: “As a platform, nothing really represents the UAE’s vision when it comes to technology, and the UAE’s position as a convener of the world than GITEX.” His Excellency then urged governments and enterprises to prioritize AI capacity-building and risk management as key national imperatives, sharing, “We’re all for proactive regulation, yet proactive regulation needs to be well-informed. We need to have agile policymaking to try to deal with the impact of AI as it evolves and manage it effectively every step of the way.”

In a defining address titled Cyber Resilience 2030: People, Policy & AI at the Core of National Security, H.E. Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Head of Cybersecurity for the UAE Government, outlined how the nation is advancing an integrated framework that combines governance, AI threat detection, and citizen awareness. His Excellency stressed, “The main message is to have a strong Cyber Culture across nations and society. Our people, is and will always be our first line of defense.” At the main stage, the UAE Cyber Security Council also launched the UAE’s Cybersecurity Vision 2025 report. At the unveiling, His Excellency shared, “Resiliency is very important for us in the UAE, and this is reflected in the report. The focus is on capacity-building, technology exchange, partnerships, and shared innovation.”

Dr. Neal Jetton, Director of Cybercrime at INTERPOL, offered insights into the global authority’s coordinated strategy against transnational cybercrime. Dr. Jetton commented, “Criminals are using AI to increase their efficiency scope and effectiveness of their operations. At INTERPOL, we bring countries together, with relevant private sector representatives, to work together on the steps needed to be effective against cybercrimes.”

Energy storage tech entrepreneur, Taavi Madiberk, CEO and Co-Founder of Skeleton Technologies, raised thought-provoking questions on the economics of AI. He said: “It’s very important to bring down the cost of AI. If for the same money, you can have 40% more computing power, you can enable new applications in cancer research, climate research, new battery technologies.”

Shedding light on cyber strategies from global governments, Her Excellency Liisa-Ly Pakosta, Estonia’s Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs, inspired audiences on how digital nations are fortifying themselves against AI-driven threats through collaborative frameworks and strong governance. H.E. shared: “Every cyberattack has an overspill; that’s why international cooperation between researchers, cyber specialists, companies, and government is truly essential.”

Exhibitors Showcase the Future of Secure Digital Transformation

Across the exhibition halls, the momentum continued as cybersecurity leaders demonstrated how innovation and protection now go hand in hand.

Huawei commanded attention with a comprehensive showcase of 80+ solutions themed under ‘All Intelligence,’ which unites five transformative pillars shaping the intelligent economy – Accelerate Industrial Intelligence, Partner Park, Huawei Cloud, Intelligent Data Center, and Intelligent Campus. The company unveiled end-to-end industry solutions designed to accelerate national digital transformation for sovereign and hybrid deployments. With a view to enhancing knowledge exchange, Huawei also unveiled the ICT Skills Development Insights Report 2025 in partnership with UNESCO IITE at GITEX GLOBAL.

Demonstrations of AI-driven network automation, energy-efficient digital power systems, and advanced cybersecurity frameworks reinforced Huawei’s leadership in building the digital foundations of smarter cities, resilient enterprises, and connected societies.

Critical infrastructure cybersecurity leader, OPSWAT presented its MetaDefender Optical Diode ensuring highly secure data transfer between OT/IT and the next-generation MetaDefender Kiosks, including Stand, Tower & Kiosks that offer advanced protection for critical assets.

Fortinet, a global leader in integrated AI-powered security solutions across networks, endpoints, and clouds, showcased its FortiGuard Incident Response & Readiness – a set of services that provide expert-led, intelligence-driven, and fully tailored support combining readiness, response, and continuous improvement under a predictable subscription model.

Crowdstrike presented Falcon platform, their flagship security solution. The cloud-native innovation has yielded a 98% reduction in critical vulnerabilities covering endpoint, cloud workloads, identity, data, and applications.

MoUs Strengthen Dubai’s Cyber Infrastructure

On the MoU Stage, Dubai Municipality and Fortinet International signed a strategic agreement to advance the emirate’s AI-enabled cybersecurity infrastructure, supporting the development of secure digital systems and public sector transformation.

Day 5 Preview: Closing a Landmark 45th Edition

GITEX GLOBAL 2025 enters its final day tomorrow, capping a week of shaping the future of AI, cybersecurity, cloud, quantum, data centers, mobility, biotech, digital health, and future energy.

With record crowds, groundbreaking product launches, and milestone business partnerships, GITEX GLOBAL is ready to conclude on a high note, before its milestone move to Dubai Exhibition Centre, Expo City Dubai in 2026, running from 7-11 December.

Amazon Web Services (AWS) and global technology group e& are bringing to life their digital transformation vision with the launch of the nationwide initiative “AI Nation – Afaaq” program to train 30,000 individuals in machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. The program, announced at GITEX Global in Dubai, is part of the strategic US$1 billion alliance between e& and AWS, which was announced in 2024.

e&, which serves more than 198 million subscribers in 38 countries, will work with AWS, the world’s most comprehensive cloud provider, to deliver this training through e& Academy, marking a significant milestone in the UAE’s digital leadership and talent development journey.

This initiative aligns with growing regional workforce challenges and requirements highlighted in IDC’s 2024 report. According to the study, an estimated 88% of United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) organizations recognize AI’s business impact. However, although 78% of UAE organizations prioritize AI investment, nearly half (46%) identify the shortage of AI skills and expertise as a critical barrier to large-scale implementation.

By addressing the AI skills gap head-on, the program reinforces e& and AWS’s commitment to directly support the UAE’s ambitious national goals including the UAE Centennial 2071 plan, which aims to build a future-focused government and a diversified, knowledge-based economy.

The program will be delivered through the e& Academy, ensuring trainees across the UAE have access to world-class training and localized support. AWS will provide 30,000 sponsored vouchers for industry-recognized certifications including 25,000 for the foundational AWS Certified AI Practitioner and 5,000 for the more advanced AWS Certified Machine Learning Engineer – Associate. Learners will also have free access to digital, self-paced training content on AWS Skill Builder, one of the most comprehensive online learning centers for cloud skills.

To further support learners on their journey, the program will be complemented by live, interactive ‘Cloud Coach’ sessions for exam readiness, empowering them with in-demand technical skills that contribute to the UAE’s digital-first ambitions.

Harrison Lung, Group Chief Strategy Officer, e&, said: “As AWS’s strategic partner, e& is proud to enable this nationwide digital skills program through our e& Academy. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to developing the next generation of talents that will drive the UAE’s innovation and leadership in the global digital economy. By combining AWS’s global training excellence with our local expertise and established presence, we are ensuring that learners across the country have access to the tools and support needed to succeed in the era of cloud and AI. This is about building the nation’s talent base at scale so employers can hire with confidence and people can step into AI-enabled roles across every sector.”

Madhavi Reddy, Managing Director, Middle East North Africa and Turkey, AWS, said: “This initiative represents AWS’s deep commitment to making world-class digital skills training accessible across the UAE. By providing 30,000 learners with industry-recognized certifications in cloud and AI, we are helping to build the robust talent base required for the nation’s digital transformation journey.”

“Our collaboration with e& Academy as an AWS Training Partner is crucial, enabling us to combine AWS’s global training expertise with strong local delivery. Together, we are empowering a new generation of builders to turn knowledge into tangible impact for businesses and communities alike.”

By developing a large-scale pipeline of talent equipped with advanced skills in cloud computing and AI, AWS and e& are investing in people that will drive innovation, attract investment, and secure the UAE’s position as a leading global technology powerhouse for generations to come.

Genesys, a global cloud leader in AI-Powered Experience Orchestration, has released its latest research report, “The State of Customer Experience: Middle East and Africa”, revealing critical insights into consumer expectations and the evolving priorities of customer experience (CX) leaders in the region. Notably, nearly two-thirds (64%) of consumers surveyed globally believe AI will improve the quality and speed of customer experience over the next two to three years. The good news is that organizations are focusing on the integration of AI into their CX strategies to close the gaps between the experiences they’re delivering today, and the services consumers want.

For today’s CX leaders, the potential for AI to transform how their organizations engage with customers is front and center, demonstrated by the 42% of global respondents who cited increasing the use of AI to improve experiences as a top priority in the survey. In MEA, AI has become so important for CX leaders, they’re planning to invest a whopping 43% of their CX-related spend toward the technology in the coming year. More than half (51%) of CX leaders surveyed in MEA are planning to invest over the next two years in AI solutions that can help improve the employee experience. 

“Consumers across the Middle East and Africa (MEA) are increasingly optimistic about the role of AI in delivering faster, more personalized and efficient service experiences,” said Sebastian Ballerini, vice president of EMEA Growth Markets at Genesys. “As organizations across the region accelerate their digital transformation efforts, it’s critical they maintain a human touch. Customers value speed, but also empathy. This report highlights how AI can help organizations not just streamline operations but build deeper trust and stronger relationships through more intelligent, connected experiences.” 

Failing to deliver on what consumers believe to be a good experience can have significant impact on an organization’s bottom line: More than half (51%) of consumers surveyed in MEA said they will abandon a favorite brand after experiencing as few as two poor interactions. In fact, 34% of those surveyed admitted that they stopped doing business with a company in the last year after a bad experience. With 46% of CX leaders surveyed in MEA citing keeping pace with consumers’ rising expectations as their greatest challenge, harnessing AI to improve customer experiences is a business imperative.

Key Insights from the Middle East & Africa Report: 

Personalization and Channel Choice Define Modern CX

• 61% percent of consumers value being connected directly to the right person who can solve their problem, and 55% prefer to engage via their channel of choice. 
• 98% of MEA consumers also said it’s important to move between channels without having to repeat information.

Consumers Demand Speed, Empathy and Seamless Interactions

• 58% of consumers in MEA say quick response is a top attribute they value in a customer service interaction, compared with 48% globally .
• More than two-thirds (69%) of consumers value brands that listen and understand their needs, and over half (58%) appreciate companies that recognize their account history and activity. 

Confidence High Among CX Leaders

• CX leaders in MEA report higher confidence than their global counterparts in delivering satisfaction and personalization. In fact, 57% say their organizations are “extremely effective” at delivering customer satisfaction, while 52% believe they’re delivering highly personalized experiences, versus 46% and 42% globally, respectively.
• 52% of leaders in the region also have a stronger focus on customer retention ahead of the 38% who cited this globally.

Methodology: Genesys worked with an independent research firm to survey 5,232 consumers and 1,181 CX decision-makers in more than 16 countries. Included among the respondents were 1,067 consumers and 180 CX decision-makers from the Middle East and Africa. The survey was conducted in September and October of 2024. Among the business respondents globally, the industries represented were airlines, automotive, banking, government, healthcare, insurance, manufacturing, media and entertainment, professional services, retail, travel and hospitality, technology, telecommunications, and utilities.

Amazon Web Services (AWS), the world’s most comprehensive cloud provider, and Aramex, the leading global provider of logistics and transportation solutions, today announced a collaboration to modernize and transform Aramex’s global IT infrastructure. Starting in Australia with the successful migration of Oceania Data Center (DC) to AWS cloud, this milestone lays the groundwork for Aramex’s extensive global modernization journey with AWS.

In its digital transformation journey, Aramex is harnessing AWS’s cloud-native capabilities to boost operational agility, resilience, and performance while ensuring seamless customer experiences. By strategically migrating key workloads to AWS cloud, Aramex is building a scalable, future-ready infrastructure that accelerates its digital evolution, advances sustainability goals, and establishes new benchmarks for IT modernization in the global logistics sector.

“Our collaboration with AWS is a foundation pillar of our global innovation and modernization strategy,” said Francoise Russo, Chief Digital and Technology Officer at Aramex.

“By migrating our infrastructure to AWS, the world’s leading cloud provider, we are not just optimizing costs and enhancing security; we are building a more agile, scalable, and resilient foundation for our future of logistics. This move allows us to accelerate our digital transformation mission, harness the power of data, and deliver a superior and more reliable experience for our customers across the globe.”

Tanuja Randery, Vice President of AWS, Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) added: “Logistics is an industry transforming at pace. Data and AI are enabling both efficiency and growth, and AWS is delighted to support a global leader like Aramex in its transformation.”

“By leveraging AWS’s world-leading cloud capabilities, Aramex can enhance its operational efficiency, strengthen security, and unlock new opportunities for innovation. We look forward to helping Aramex set a new standard for digital excellence in the global logistics industry”.

A roadmap to AI-fueled cloud imperative

As global AI spending grows faster than overall digital investments globally, according to IDC research, organizations are realizing the importance of robust cloud infrastructure in powering their AI initiatives. In line with this industry-wide transformation, Aramex’s successful migration to AWS cloud showcases the scale and sophistication of modern cloud adoption.

The project encompassed the transfer of 88 Virtual Machines (VMs) – including 18 for databases and 70 for applications – from Aramex’s Oceania DC. This comprehensive migration serves as a blueprint for future data center exits, featuring an advanced solution architecture that leverages AWS’s disaster recovery services and identity management to meet rigorous security, reliability, and performance requirements.

The successful migration of Aramex’s Oceania DC to AWS cloud demonstrates the power of cloud technology in revolutionizing logistics operations. By combining AWS’s extensive cloud infrastructure with Aramex’s logistics expertise, this collaboration creates a foundation for next-generation AI-driven logistics solutions that will enhance operational efficiency, elevate customer experiences, and advance sustainability goals.

As Aramex continues its modernization journey with AWS, both organizations are geared to reshape the future of the digital logistics landscape and set new industry standards for innovation worldwide.

The Saudi Health Information Management Association (SHIMA) has announced the SHIMA Annual Conference & Expo 2025, a landmark event set to become the leading platform for digital health transformation in the Kingdom.

As Saudi Arabia continues to place healthcare at the heart of its Vision 2030 agenda, this year’s conference will highlight how innovation, technology, and data are driving a smarter, more efficient healthcare ecosystem. From AI-powered analytics to secure data governance and virtual care systems, the event will showcase the tools and ideas reshaping healthcare delivery in the Kingdom and beyond.

A Unified Platform for Collaboration

The SHIMA Annual Conference & Expo 2025 will bring together the entire healthcare ecosystem — from policymakers and government officials to hospital executives, IT professionals, innovators, and investors — to align on strategies and solutions that accelerate digital transformation.

Over two days of keynote addresses, panel discussions, and workshops, the conference will address critical topics such as cybersecurity, data management, workforce development, and AI integration, offering attendees actionable insights to navigate the evolving digital health landscape.

Innovation Takes Center Stage

At the heart of the event lies the Exhibition & Innovation Showcase, the region’s most comprehensive display of healthcare information management technologies.

The exhibition will feature live demonstrations, pilot projects, and interactive showcases, allowing participants to experience firsthand how emerging digital tools are transforming patient care and operational performance.

For solution providers, the platform offers direct access to decision-makers across Saudi Arabia’s healthcare ecosystem. For healthcare leaders, it’s the go-to marketplace to discover innovations that are redefining care delivery.

What to Expect at the Exhibition

• Next-generation Health Information Systems (HIS) and Electronic Medical Records (EMR) platforms enabling seamless data integration.
• Coding, documentation, and reimbursement solutions designed to enhance accuracy and efficiency.
• Revenue Cycle Management (RCM) systems powered by AI and automation.
• Population health and analytics tools supporting preventive, outcome-based care.
• Cybersecurity and compliance solutions aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Personal Data Protection Law (PDPL) and international standards.
• Emerging digital health innovations, from telehealth and cloud-based systems to AI-driven applications.

Beyond the Conference Hall

In addition to the exhibition and sessions, SHIMA 2025 will feature exclusive networking opportunities, investor forums, and cultural excursions in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, enabling attendees to connect, collaborate, and experience Saudi Arabia’s vibrant transformation firsthand.

With more than $65 billion invested in healthcare IT under Vision 2030, SHIMA Annual Conference & Expo 2025 is positioned as the definitive forum for advancing digital health excellence — turning national ambition into actionable progress.

Make sure to visit the SHIMA 2025 website, and register here. 

Dubai Healthcare City Authority (DHCA), the governing body of Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC), has announced an AED1.3 billion development plan for DHCC Phase 1, reinforcing its position as an attractive destination for global healthcare investment. The first stage of this comprehensive plan will see the launch of a LEED platinum-certified office building, a purpose-built medical complex, and supporting infrastructure facilities designed to drive robust ecosystem growth and deliver future-ready facilities.

Issam Galadari, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Healthcare City Authority, said: “Our upcoming development plan, starting with these flagship projects, reflects our commitment to contribute to the advancement of Dubai’s healthcare infrastructure. By creating an ecosystem that attracts investments, including FDI, and fosters innovation, while integrating sustainability with world-class design, we are aligning with the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, and the UAE Net Zero Strategy 2050. Through the ongoing development, we will continue to cement DHCC’s position as the enabling healthcare and wellness destination for the region and beyond.”

The LEED platinum-certified office building, the first of its kind in DHCC, is designed by award-winning firm P&T Architects and Engineers Ltd. Spanning 13,000 square metres across three basement levels and nine floors, it offers a flexible mix of office units and ground-floor commercial spaces, setting a new standard for sustainable urban development while achieving the highest international certification.

Alongside this, the purpose-built medical complex, designed by Dubai-based Design and Architecture Bureau (DAR), is an anchor project covering 5,800 square metres. With two basement levels and five floors, it provides adaptable spaces for surgical facilities, laboratories, diagnostics, outpatient facilities, medical offices, and support services. Its shell-and-core design, optimised layouts, and smart parking integration ensure long-term flexibility to meet the evolving needs of both healthcare providers and patients.

To complement these projects and enhance community access, DHCA is also delivering multi-storey car parks equipped with electric vehicle charging stations, Salik-integrated smart parking, and full accessibility features.

Allae Almanini, Chief Operating Officer at Dubai Healthcare City Authority, added: “Our priority is to deliver infrastructure that enables growth and creates confidence for healthcare providers and investors. These projects will enhance accessibility, sustainability, and efficiency across the community, ensuring that DHCC remains the most attractive healthcare investment destination in the region.”

Bright Pattern, a global leader in omnichannel contact center technology, and Voxtron Middle East LLC, a premier provider of communication solutions based in Dubai, today announced the expansion of their strategic partnership to accelerate AI-driven customer experience in the UAE.

Through this collaboration, Voxtron’s flagship cloud contact center platform, Voxvantage, is now powered by Bright Pattern’s advanced AI capabilities. The integration brings intelligent automation, real-time analytics, and smarter customer engagement tools to enterprises across the region.

“This partnership reflects Voxtron’s commitment to offering scalable, AI-enabled solutions that meet the rising expectations of today’s digital-first customers,” said Padickapparambil Thomas, CEO of Voxtron Middle East LLC. “Bright Pattern’s AI-powered omnichannel platform is the perfect fit for our vision of delivering top-tier customer experience solutions. With these capabilities embedded in Voxvantage, our enterprise customers can scale efficiently while providing truly personalized service.”

Michael McCloskey, CEO of Bright Pattern, added: “Partnering with Voxtron gives us a strong presence in the UAE, supported by their deep market expertise. Together, we aim to empower enterprises with intelligent cloud-native solutions that transform customer engagement.”

Headquartered in Dubai, Voxtron Middle East has been at the forefront of digital transformation in enterprise communications for over a decade. The company specializes in delivering cloud contact centers, unified communications, and collaboration tools tailored for multiple industries. Its solutions are hosted on Moro Hub, a Digital DEWA company, ensuring secure, compliant, and sustainable data hosting within the UAE—an essential advantage for regulated sectors.

Bright Pattern is recognized for its simple yet powerful AI-native omnichannel platform, combining automatic call distribution (ACD), AI-driven analytics, workforce management (WFM), and fast deployment. Serving more than 500 customers in 30 countries, the company is known for its flexibility, offering both cloud and on-premises options with high ROI.

The partnership between Voxtron and Bright Pattern represents a unique convergence of global innovation and regional expertise, aligned with the UAE’s national vision for digital excellence. Together, the companies will enable organizations to enhance customer journeys, optimize operations, and embrace the future of intelligent engagement.

As part of this strengthened alliance, Voxtron and Bright Pattern will jointly showcase their innovations at GITEX Global 2025 in Dubai. Visitors will experience live demonstrations of AI-powered contact center solutions, highlighting omnichannel orchestration, predictive engagement, and real-time analytics in action.

Kyndryl, a leading provider of mission-critical enterprise technology services, and Auj, a trusted aviation strategy and operations advisory firm, announced a strategic collaboration at the World Aviation Festival in Lisbon, Portugal, aimed at accelerating digital transformation across Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector.

Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector is undergoing accelerated growth, driven by Vision 2030. According to the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA)’s State of Aviation report, the industry contributed $53 billion (≈ SAR 198.8 billion) to the national economy in 2023. Under GACA’s Saudi Aviation Strategy, the sector is also on track to handle 330 million passengers annually by 2030.

Auj brings extensive experience across the Kingdom’s aviation landscape, working with national carriers, airport operators and authorities to redesign core platforms and operations, delivering robust, protected and scalable performance across critical functions.

Under the agreement, Kyndryl and Auj will work closely to help aviation customers in the Kingdom, including airlines, airports and regulators, adopt new technologies and operating models that drive efficiency, resilience and innovation. The collaboration will combine Kyndryl’s expertise in IT consulting, cloud, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning and managed services, along with its ecosystem of strategic alliances and partners, with Auj’s deep industry knowledge in airport strategy, operating models, and regulatory engagement. Together, they aim to deliver solutions and services tailored to the challenges of the aviation industry in the Kingdom.

“Kyndryl brings its expertise and experience in digital modernization for some of the world’s leading airports and airlines to the aviation sector in Saudi Arabia,” said Pieter Bil, Senior Vice President and Managing Director, Kyndryl Middle East and Africa. “Together with Auj, we will help aviation stakeholders deliver more personalized and seamless customer experiences, meet rising traveler expectations, and build resilient, future-ready operations that support the Kingdom’s ambitious growth and sustainability goals.”

“At Auj, our purpose is to reimagine the future of aviation in Saudi Arabia by combining global best practices with deep local expertise,” said Mohammed Al Moaither, Chief Operating Officer of Auj. “This collaboration with Kyndryl allows us to accelerate the digital transformation of the aviation ecosystem, enabling smarter operations, seamless and personalized passenger journeys, and stronger resilience across the sector. By aligning with Vision 2030, we aim not only to modernize aviation infrastructure, but to help shape a connected, sustainable ecosystem that positions the Kingdom as a global leader in aviation and smart city innovation.”

Kyndryl has a global track record in the aviation sector, partnering with leading airlines and airports to modernize mission-critical systems and deliver resilient, secure, and scalable IT environments, including Singapore Airlines, Japan Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Etihad Airways, and Bangalore International Airport. 

A HOROLOGICAL METAMORPHOSIS

Ceramic, carbon fiber, and now Cermet: Parmigiani Fleurier eschews the mainstream by introducing a groundbreaking material in luxury watchmaking. This year’s Tonda PF Chronograph Sport is entirely crafted in avant-garde material – CER for ceramic and MET for metal. Its development took three years, and it represents a world first: no watchmaking brand to date has used Cermet entirely to shape a timepiece – case, fluted bezel, crown, pushers, and bracelet buckle. It features the high-frequency, COSC-certified, PF070 movement (36,000 vph), with an integrated chronograph and automatic winding.

Cermet is a composite and scratch-resistant material combining the hardness and high-temperature resistant properties of ceramic with the lightness of metal. These exceptional qualities make it a mainstay alloy in aerospace and many cutting-edge technologies.

Available in two captivating shades, Milano Blue and London Grey, this COSC-certified, high-frequency chronograph is a futuristic vision of sophisticated and sporty elegance, performance, and technological boldness.

A WORLD FIRST: A CASE ENTIRELY MACHINED IN CERMET

Parmigiani Fleurier is the first watchmaker to craft a complete case in Cermet. From the case middle to the pushers, every detail has been designed with extreme precision, requiring a full day of assembly and 72 distinct components.

Its satin-polished anthracite case subtly captures light, enhancing its modern aesthetic. Cermet’s properties allow it to reflect light uniquely, providing metallic reflections while maintaining minimalist elegance.

The dial, treated in Blackor (9-carat gold-nickel deposit), sports a distinctive grey-black hue, enhancing the metallic elegance of the timepiece.

EXCEPTIONAL PERFORMANCE: THE PF070 MOVEMENT

At the heart of this watch beats the PF070 caliber, a COSC-certified, high-frequency integrated chronograph movement (36,000 Vph). Its extreme precision and optimised power reserve meet Parmigiani Fleurier’s standards of excellence.

WATCHMAKING AVANT-GARDE AT THE SERVICE OF CONTEMPORARY AESTHETES

The Tonda PF Sport Ultra-Cermet is crafted for discerning watch enthusiasts seeking a bold declaration of style and innovation. Parmigiani Fleurier masterfully blends artisanal excellence with radical innovation, presenting a compelling alternative to mainstream watchmaking. It embodies a modern vision of haute horlogerie, where material innovation becomes a hallmark of cultural distinction.

This timepiece reflects functional elegance for those who push boundaries, not simply for the challenge, but in pursuit of excellence.

CERMET: PIONEERING A NEW ERA IN MATERIALS SCIENCE

Neither pure ceramic nor metal, Cermet (CER for ceramic, MET for metal) offers exceptional scratch resistance while remaining light.

The Cermet of the Tonda PF Sport Chronograph results from a precise alloy of titanium and ceramic. Its manufacture involves an extreme selection of fine powders, comparable to refining the purest sake. With a hardness of 1450 HV (Vickers), it has a cold touch and a unique ability to reflect light, enhancing its luxurious appearance.

This cool sensation to the touch, characteristic of Cermet, adds an unprecedented sensory dimension to the watchmaking experience. The fine structure of the material accentuates its interaction with light, offering subtle visual depth that changes according to the angle and intensity of lighting.

The Tonda PF Sport Chronograph Cermet marks a break in the perception of luxury. Transcending mere ornamentation, the Tonda PF Sport Ultra-Cermet redefines luxury through material innovation, seamlessly fusing horological heritage with a bold vision of the future.

The United Arab Emirates’ non-oil private sector recorded its strongest expansion in seven months at the end of September – beginning of October, driven by a sharp rise in new business inflows, according to a survey released.

The seasonally adjusted S&P Global UAE Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) rose to 54.2 in September from 53.3 in August, reflecting a robust recovery in demand.

Although the headline index remains below the survey’s long-run average, the latest reading suggests that non-oil business performance has rebounded well since its low point in July, said David Owen, Senior Economist at S&P Global Market Intelligence.

“Over 30% of surveyed firms reported an increase in new order intakes during the month, which drove a sharp improvement in sales growth from its over four-year low in August. The uplift pointed to some positive momentum in the domestic market as export sales growth remained relatively muted,” he said.

The improvement in sales volumes was largely supported by domestic demand, though new orders from foreign clients also saw an uptick.

Purchasing activity increased in September after declining for the first time in over four years in August. However, the report noted that the rise was relatively subdued compared to recent trends, as businesses cited sufficient stock levels, competitive pressures, and pricing concerns as factors limiting buying activity.

Employment levels rose at the fastest pace since May, though the increase remained modest.

Looking ahead, firms remained optimistic about the year ahead, albeit slightly less so than in August, which marked a ten-month high in sentiment.

Dubai keeps pace 

Non-oil companies in Dubai also saw a notable boost in sales at the end of the third quarter. The Dubai PMI climbed to 54.2 in September from 53.6 in August, mirroring the broader UAE trend.

Firms reported a sharper increase in new work compared to August, with the pace of sales growth accelerating to an eight-month high, following only a modest upturn the previous month.

Object 1, the award-winning developer shaping the UAE’s real estate landscape with design-led projects, has signed an official global partnership with the Nottingham Forest Football Club, marking the start of an exciting collaboration that brings together world-class football and Dubai’s rapidly growing real estate sector. Running throughout the 2025–26 season, the partnership positions Object 1 on the international stage while highlighting its local achievements in Dubai, creating opportunities to engage ardent football fans across the UAE and the Gulf region.

The two join forces during an exciting period for both organizations, with Forest currently competing in the Europa League for the first time in 30 years, and Object 1 winning multiple awards and seeing record growth into one of the top ten developers in Dubai. With the shared commitment of building a future together, Object 1 and Forest will collaborate on exciting content campaigns showcasing their developments and aimed at engaging supporters worldwide throughout the upcoming season and beyond.

Object 1, part of the international TSZ Group, is carving its own space with premium, high-quality developments that deliver lasting value at accessible price points. Known for its conceptual design, smart functionality, wellness features, and sustainability, the company has launched projects of lasting value across nine districts in Dubai, spanning from mass-market housing to premium, high-demand locations. Object 1 has a clear vision for long-term growth, with plans to expand into Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s capital.

Egor Maslennikov, Chairman and Founder of Object 1, added: “We are super excited to team up with Nottingham Forest, a club of such high caliber. We look at this partnership with great optimism and believe it’s just the beginning. Together, we aim to set new benchmarks, drive innovation, and create lasting value for people. For Object 1, this collaboration reflects our vision of aligning with global icons that share our passion for excellence and our commitment to building vibrant, forward-looking communities.”

Lina Souloukou, Nottingham Forest Chief Executive Officer, said: “Object 1 is an exciting challenger brand within the real estate sector in Dubai, which is growing rapidly and is deeply passionate about delivering high-quality, sustainable and affordable developments for its communities. Our values align strongly, and we’re very excited to welcome another internationally renowned brand to the Forest family for years to come.”

Football is the most popular sport in the Middle East, with many considering it a way of life, with millions of fans following local, European, and international tournaments. The UAE are making huge investments in their domestic leagues and international events. Through this partnership, Object 1 aligns itself with the excitement, ambition, and global reach that football represents, bringing these values closer to its communities in Dubai and across the UAE.

Object 1 and Nottingham Forest are committed to leveraging their shared values to create a meaningful impact both on and off the pitch. This partnership marks the beginning of a long-term collaboration that unites sporting excellence with Object 1’s vision for building vibrant, sustainable, and forward-looking communities in the UAE.

Kuwait is targeting 14.05 GW of power generation and 228 million imperial gallons of fresh water per day by 2031, said Sabeeh Al-Mukhaizeem, Minister of Electricity, Water, and Renewable Energy, in order to build strong future capacity to meet rising demand and secure supplies.

The ministry has made significant strides in this direction, signing a commitment document to implement the second and third phases of the Al-Zour North Power Plant project, which has a capacity of 2.7 GW, last month, reported KUNA.

This was done in cooperation with the Kuwait Authority for Partnership Projects (KAPP) and a consortium comprising ACWA Power and the Gulf Investment Corporation, he elaborated.

Regarding the Shagaya Renewable Energy Project, the minister stated that it is one of the country’s most important projects.

The first phase, with a capacity of 1.1 GW, was launched by the Public-Private Partnership Projects Authority last June.

He stressed that the ministry seeks to guarantee Kuwait’s electrical and water future through several major upcoming projects, including the 7,200-capacity Al-Nuwaiseeb project.

The Kuwait Ministry of Electricity, Water, and Renewable Energy has made an unprecedented accomplishment in managing energy demand, as the maximum load hit 17,610 MW, according to figures registered on the electrify website during this summer, said Al-Mukhaizeem.

This summer registered a decline of 30 MW in demand compared to the summer of 2024, while the annual load rise was expected to hit 4 per cent, Al-Mukhaizeem, who is also Acting Finance Minister and Minister of State for Economic and Investment Affairs, added in a press release.

The decline in electricity consumption is an important indicator of successful national efforts, despite temperatures in the country hitting 51 deg C and a growing population, he noted.

This achievement was made possible through strategic planning in the ministry’s load department and strict campaigns against overconsumption, he stated.

The initiative was implemented according to high technical and engineering standards, using the latest techniques in monitoring and follow-up to ensure sustainable efficiency of the electricity network and enhance its capacity, according to the release.

The minister praised the collaboration among ministries, all state agencies, and the political leadership, as well as the government’s significant support.

QatarEnergy agreed with Shell to acquire a 27% participating interest in a block offshore Egypt from the oil and gas major, it said in a statement on Sunday.

QatarEnergy has in recent years acquired stakes in oil and gas basins including in Guyana, Lebanon, Namibia and South Africa as part of a strategy to expand its global presence.

It recently also acquired several exploration blocks offshore Egypt.

The agreement, still subject to Egypt’s approval, stipulated that Shell will retain a 36% participating interest as operator of the North Cleopatra block. Chevron also holds a 27% participating interest and Egyptian oil and gas firm Tharwa Petroleum Company holds 10%.

The North Cleopatra block is located in the frontier Herodotus basin in the eastern Mediterranean Sea. It covers an area of over 3,400 square km (1,313 square miles) in water depths of up to 2,600 m (8,530 ft), QatarEnergy said.

In a significant step toward supporting the digital transformation of Saudi Arabia’s labor market, SBR—a fast-growing Saudi startup specializing in AI-powered HR technologies—has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Jisr, one of the Kingdom’s leading platforms for human resources and financial management.

This strategic partnership aims to redefine recruitment processes by developing advanced solutions that enable companies to leverage accurate data and identify top talent more efficiently. The collaboration is set to reduce hiring time and costs, streamline procedures, and deliver more impactful outcomes.

Founded by entrepreneurs Saleh Baarmah and Hamzah Bawazir, SBR was established to simplify recruitment using artificial intelligence. The platform shortens candidate selection and interview timelines, applies standardised criteria to minimise human bias, and promotes fairness in hiring. With a blend of commercial insight and technical expertise in data science, the founders chose to focus on recruitment—one of the most influential sectors in Saudi Arabia, where nearly two million people enter the job market annually, including 250,000 new graduates.

Through in-depth interviews and research, the founders uncovered major challenges facing employers’ resumes that fail to reflect true competencies, ineffective interviews with mismatched candidates, and wasted time and resources. This led to the creation of the “Know Your Candidate” concept—modelled after the financial sector’s “Know Your Customer”—through a smart recruitment engine that objectively analyses skills and experience, offering a deeper and more accurate view of each candidate beyond the traditional CV. 

A spokesperson from SBR described the MoU with Jisr as a strategic milestone in enhancing the recruitment journey through AI, stating: “This agreement will help companies reduce wasted time and costs, and rely on precise data to select the right talent.”

The spokesperson also noted that SBR launched its prototype in mid-August in collaboration with over 20 companies. The signing with Jisr marks a new chapter—delivering more accurate hiring for businesses, broader opportunities for youth, and contributing to a smart ecosystem aligned with Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation and Vision 2030.

He added: “Behind SBR is a diverse team of analysts, data scientists, growth managers, developers, and marketers, all driven by a shared passion to transform the recruitment experience in Saudi Arabia and the Gulf and take it to a global level. For us, SBR is more than a startup; it’s a national mission to prove that a Saudi tech product, built by young Saudi innovators, can compete globally and make a real impact on the hiring landscape.”

Flying to more countries than any other airline worldwide, Turkish Airlines is taking another significant step forward in line with its strategic growth plans.

The national flag carrier has reached an agreement with Boeing, and will add a total of 75 wide-body Boeing 787-9 and 787-10 aircraft to its fleet between 2029 and 2034, consisting of 50 firm and 25 option orders within this scope.

In terms of engine procurement, Turkish Airlines is continuing negotiations with manufacturers Rolls-Royce and GE Aerospace. Within the scope of this strategic acquisition, negotiations between Turkish Airlines and Boeing regarding the purchase of a total of 150 aircraft, consisting of 100 firm and 50 option orders for the 737-8/10 MAX models have been completed. Subject to the successful conclusion of ongoing discussions with engine manufacturer CFM International, orders for the 737-8/10 MAX aircraft will be placed.

This agreement stands as a strong indicator of both the strategic partnership between Türkiye and the United States, as well as the long-standing cooperation between Turkish Airlines and Boeing. It also underscores the airline’s determination to maintain industry leadership and enhance operational efficiency.

As part of its “Vision 2033” which underscores airline’s 100th anniversary, Turkish Airlines aims to expand its fleet beyond 800 aircraft, while increasing the proportion of next-generation aircraft to 90% by 2033 and to 100% by 2035. This will further strengthen operational efficiency while sustaining an average annual growth rate of 6%.

On this new order, Turkish Airlines Chairman of the Board and the Executive Committee, Prof. Ahmet Bolat stated: “This landmark agreement represents much more than a fleet growth. It is a reflection of our leadership in the industry as well as our dedication to innovation and operational excellence. The addition of these advanced Boeing aircraft to our fleet will not only enhance our operational capabilities but also become a significant element supporting Turkish Airlines’ 2033 Vision of expanding our fleet to 800 aircraft.

With this agreement, while advancing our close collaboration with the world’s leading aircraft manufacturers, we will continue to support the development of Türkiye’s aviation ecosystem. Moreover, by offering greater connectivity and more long-haul destinations, these aircraft will help attract more visitors to discover our country’s unique cultural heritage and natural beauty, thereby further strengthening Türkiye’s tourism sector. Turkish Airlines, with its unparalleled service approach and unrivalled flight network, will also continue to set the global benchmark in both efficiency and environmental responsibility.”

Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Stephanie Pope stated: “We are honored that Turkish Airlines has once again chosen the 787 Dreamliner and 737 MAX to power its future growth. As a proud partner to Türkiye and the Turkish aviation industry for 80 years, we look forward to continuing our support of Turkish Airlines as they expand operations and deliver exceptional experiences to their passengers.”

Turkish Airlines operates more than 200 Boeing aircraft, among them 787-9, 777, 737 MAX, Next-Generation 737 and 777 Freighters. With this agreement, the carrier will soon introduce the largest member of the 787 family, the 787-10. Addition of these new Dreamliners will reduce operating costs with their 25% fuel efficiency advantage while increasing both passenger and cargo capacity, thus supporting high-demand routes particularly across the United States, Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East.

While the expansion of the 787 Dreamliner fleet will strengthen Turkish Airlines’ long-haul capabilities, the 737 MAX aircraft will enhance efficiency and flexibility on short- and medium-haul routes. At the same time, their advanced cargo capacity and operational versatility will further reinforce Istanbul’s role as a strategic hub for both passenger and cargo transport.

Turkish Airlines continues to lead the way in the aviation industry, consistently delivering unparalleled service and unforgettable experiences above the clouds to its guests. This acquisition reinforces the airline’s commitment to offering travelers the most comfortable travel options available.