HUB 5

CELEBRATING INTERNATIONAL COFFEE DAY: GCC's GROWING POTENTIAL AS COFFEE HUB FOR GLOBAL EXPANSION As the world celebrates International Coffee Day, it’s the perfect moment to reflect on the deep cultural significance of coffee in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, and why it’s a prime destination for global coffee companies seeking expansion. Coffee, or gahwa, has been an integral part of Arab hospitality and culture for centuries, symbolizing warmth, generosity, and social connection. This rich heritage, combined with modern trends, makes the GCC an ideal market for coffee brands looking to expand. Over the last decade, the region has experienced a surge in demand for premium coffee, artisanal brews, and a flourishing café culture, driven by a young, affluent population and a growing expatriate community. From the bustling coffee shops in Dubai to Riyadh’s thriving café scene, the coffee culture is evolving, blending tradition with modern coffee experiences. With its strategic location as a global trade hub, the GCC offers coffee companies access to both the Middle East and Africa, along with world-class logistics infrastructure. For global coffee companies, the GCC represents more than just a market—it’s an opportunity to engage with a culture that deeply values coffee as part of its identity. Whether through traditional Arabian gahwa or trendy specialty brews, coffee brands can build meaningful connections with consumers eager for high-quality, innovative coffee experiences. #coffee #gcc #sustainability #innovation #foodandbeverage #manufacture #investments

SAUDI ARABIA ESTABLISHES RIYADH NON-PROFIT FOUNDATION TO ADVANCE SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT AND INNOVATION Saudi Arabia has officially announced the establishment of the Riyadh Non-profit Foundation, along with the appointment of its board of directors. The decision to form the board was taken by the Board of Directors of the Royal Commission for Riyadh City. The primary objectives of the foundation are to promote institutional and social work, advance research and studies, and foster greater community participation in non-profit sector initiatives. Additionally, the foundation aims to cultivate a deeper understanding of social work and reinforce its underlying values. His Royal Highness Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, who serves as the Chairman of the Royal Commission for Riyadh City, will chair the board of the newly established foundation. Engineer Ibrahim Al-Sultan, CEO of the Royal Commission for Riyadh City, has been appointed Vice President and Secretary General. The launch of the foundation was described as "a pioneering initiative aimed at promoting social development and fostering innovation within the non-profit sector." The foundation will focus on empowering all segments of society, enhancing social cohesion, and preserving the cultural identity of Riyadh. It seeks to collaborate with government institutions and non-profit organizations to expand employment opportunities in the social sector. The foundation further aspires to become a leading regional and global entity in financing, designing, and implementing innovative social programs. It will provide support to key sectors, including healthcare, education, arts, culture, and environmental sustainability, thereby contributing to an enhanced quality of life and the broader social development of the Kingdom. Additional objectives include the establishment of research centers and incubators for social projects, increasing community involvement, and effectively managing affiliated entities. These efforts will be aligned with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, aimed at comprehensive national development. #innovation #tech #healthcare #smartcities #sustainability #saudivision2030

EMPOWERING INNOVATION: THE DUBAI RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT, AND INNOVATION (RDI) GRANT INITIATIVE The Dubai Research, Development, and Innovation (RDI) Grant Initiative is designed to strengthen Dubai's position as a global leader in scientific research and innovation. Launched by H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Chairman of the Executive Council, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Dubai Future Foundation this initiative is integral to Dubai’s broader vision of becoming a future-ready metropolis, fostering socio-economic growth and business development through advanced research. The RDI Grant Initiative offers vital funding and resources to support pioneering research projects that address global challenges while enhancing Dubai’s economic competitiveness. By encouraging collaborations, the program aims to create innovative solutions that open new avenues for business development across key sectors. Priority Sectors: - Health and Well-being: Focusing on precision medicine, healthcare innovation, and biotechnology. - Environmental Technology: Developing solutions for sustainability, renewable energy, and green innovation. - Smart Built Infrastructure: Advancing smart city technologies, urban planning, and construction innovations. - Space and Human-Machine Intelligence: Promoting research in space technology, robotics, and AI-driven human-machine interactions. This initiative aligns with Dubai’s long-term strategy to establish itself as a global hub for scientific innovation. With the support of the Dubai Future Foundation, the program is focused on attracting top talent and entrepreneurs from around the world, further enhancing Dubai's reputation as a leader in innovation, economic stability, and sustainable growth. #healthcare #ai #smartcities #technologies #sustainability #renewableenergy #innovations #dubai

Exciting News: Promotion Announcement! We are thrilled to announce the promotion of Kristina Voronetskaya to the position of Business Relationship Director at The Private Office. Kristina has been an invaluable member of our team, demonstrating a strategic vision, and a deep commitment to building and nurturing strong client relationships. In her new role as Business Relationship Director, Kristina will continue to enhance our client partnerships and lead our business development initiatives. We look forward to achieving even greater milestones together. #innovation #teamsuccess #sustainability #leadership

HAPPY EMIRATI WOMEN'S DAY August 28th marks the annual Emirati Women’s Day in the UAE, a day dedicated to honoring the strength, accomplishments, and societal contributions of Emirati women. This special occasion also emphasizes their empowerment, individuality, and leadership. Emirati Women’s Day was established in 2015 as an initiative by H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union (GWU), President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, and Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation (FDF), known as the "Mother of the Nation." The date commemorates the founding of the UAE’s General Women’s Union in 1975. This year’s celebration centers on the theme, ‘Women: Ambitions & Inspiration for the Next 50 Years,’ highlighting the pivotal role of Emirati women in shaping the nation’s future. The theme underscores the ongoing efforts to build a future aligned with the aspirations of our visionary leadership for the next five decades. At the HUB 5, we join the nation in celebrating the remarkable achievements of Emirati women across various sectors. Today, many of them occupy key leadership roles, contributing to decision-making processes and driving significant organizational growth and development. From government leaders like H.E. Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi, Minister of State for Tolerance, to business pioneers like Reem Al Hashimi, Director General for Expo 2020, to artists and athletes like Zahra Lari, figure skater, we are proud of the groundbreaking contributions of Emirati women. They stand as role models for women not just in the UAE but around the world. Our celebration of Emirati women is not confined to this single day but continues as an ongoing tribute. #success #uae #innovation #women #leadership

TOKENISATION POISED TO DRIVE DUBAI'S REAL ESTATE SECTOR TO THE NEW HEIGHTS The rapid adoption of tokenisation and blockchain technology is revolutionizing Dubai’s real estate landscape, particularly in the realm of fractional ownership. This innovative approach is allowing investors to own portions of high-value assets, including luxury vacation homes, by purchasing tokens or stablecoins on blockchain platforms. Industry experts estimate that this could lead to investment returns exceeding 8 percent. Tokenisation, which involves converting real-world assets (RWAs) like real estate into digital tokens on a blockchain, is becoming a significant trend in Dubai and across the UAE. These tokens represent fractional ownership of properties, making it easier for investors to trade and earn yields through digital currencies. This trend is not limited to the UAE. The Boston Consulting Group predicts that the global market for real estate tokenisation could surge to $16 trillion by 2030, up from an estimated $2.7 billion in 2022. This growth is expected to democratize investment opportunities, allowing a wider range of investors, including those with limited capital, to enter the real estate market. Tokenised real estate not only increases liquidity and streamlines processes but also enables digital ownership on a global scale. Investors from different parts of the world can now invest in properties in various regions, thereby diversifying their portfolios. Dubai's market is witnessing an influx of players eager to capitalize on these new opportunities. Despite the growing interest in tokenisation among crypto firms, its adoption in traditional industries remains in its early stages. However, the rise of tokenisation has given a significant boost to the concept of fractional ownership in real estate. Fractional ownership allows investors to purchase a percentage of a property—be it an apartment, villa, or commercial asset—managed through legal entities like Limited Liability Companies (LLCs). This model enables shared usage rights and costs that correspond to the ownership share, making luxury assets more accessible to a broader range of investors. As blockchain technology continues to integrate into the real estate sector, fractional ownership is likely to expand, offering diverse and accessible investment opportunities across various asset classes. #blockchain #realestate #digitalassets #crypto #tokenisation #dubai #investments

MENA REGION ON TRACK FOR $50 BILLION MARKET SURGE DESPITE GLOBAL ECONOMIC CONCERNS Despite the recession fears and market volatility in the US and other Western economies, the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is poised for a significant market surge in the next 3 to 5 years. Experts predict that over 60 high-growth startups, known as Rhinos—resilient companies with valuations exceeding $100 million—are set to enter the market. These Rhinos, including fintech leaders, foodtech innovators, and classified giants, are expected to contribute to a combined market capitalization exceeding $50 billion through initial public offerings (IPOs). This marks a significant boost for the region's economy, even as global markets face uncertainty. These Rhinos will account for 30 percent of the region’s IPOs over the next five years. MENA is projected to see over 200 IPOs by 2029, a notable increase from the 182 IPOs recorded between 2018 and 2023. While global attention often focuses on unicorns, MENA has been quietly nurturing its own success stories. Currently, around 100 ventures are in advanced growth stages, with many more expected to mature in the coming years. The region, which had only 6 unicorns in 2023 compared to 1,357 globally, is witnessing a shift as these Rhinos gain momentum. The study also notes that 30 Rhinos are IPO-ready, while another 70 are likely to pursue mergers and acquisitions (M&A) to enhance scale and drive synergies. Sectors such as retail, hospitality, logistics, and foodtech are particularly ripe for consolidation, which will further strengthen their market positions. MENA’s Rhinos are thriving by building strong, sustainable businesses that achieve profitability faster and maintain steady growth. These companies are listing on public markets more quickly than their global counterparts, with an average of 8 years to IPO compared to the global average of 11 years. The digital economy in MENA is expected to play an increasingly vital role in the region's stock markets, with digital Rhinos projected to account for 30 percent of IPOs over the next five years. As the MENA region continues to evolve, consolidation in sectors like foodtech, hospitality, online retail, and logistics will likely serve as a catalyst for future IPOs, driving further growth and solidifying the region's position as a hub for innovation and economic expansion. #innovation #investment #foodtech #fintech #ai #healthtech

GCC SHIFT TOWARD FLEXITARIANISM AND HEALTHY EATING: $ 500 MILLION MARKET BY 2030 The GCC region, particularly the UAE and Saudi Arabia, is experiencing a significant consumer shift toward healthier eating habits, with many non-vegetarians increasingly adopting plant-based diets, according to industry experts. This trend is expected to cause the plant-based meat market to soar eightfold, reaching $500 million by 2030, up from just $60 million in 2023, recent market research indicates. In comparison, the meat market in the region, valued at $17 billion last year, is anticipated to grow to only $26 billion during this period, representing a modest 53% increase. The number of flexitarians is also projected to rise significantly over the next six years. By 2030, 23% of consumers are expected to shift towards plant-based foods, up from 8% in 2023, according to a market study. Additionally, the proportion of consumers regularly trying plant-based and other protein-based foods is expected to increase from 53% in 2023 to 61% by 2030. Consumer loyalty to plant and protein-based products is predicted to grow by 9%, making up 23% of the overall consumer base. The rise of flexitarians is creating a substantial market opportunity for companies which specializes in plant-based products. Health concerns are a major driver for reducing meat consumption, especially in fast-food meals, highlighting the trend of conscious indulgence. This evolving market landscape presents a significant opportunity for businesses to cater to the growing demand for healthy and plant-based food options in the GCC region. #innovation #foodindustry #sustainability #dubai #healthyfood #gcc

ENERGY STARTUPS SECURE OVER AED 110 MILLION IN H1 2024 FUNDING The energy sector has experienced significant growth, with approximately 54 startups operating by the end of 2023. During the first half of 2024, these companies secured over AED 110 million in funding. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), startups focused on energy storage and batteries received the largest share of this financing, accounting for about 33.3 percent. Solar energy companies followed, receiving 25 percent of the total funding. Wind energy startups obtained 8.3 percent, while the remaining 33.3 percent was allocated to other renewable and clean energy ventures. Of the 54 energy startups by the end of 2023, 12 are engaged in energy storage and batteries, 9 in energy efficiency, 21 in various renewable energy fields, and 12 in other energy-related sectors. This substantial investment underscores the growing importance of innovative energy solutions, especially as these startups are gaining significant interest in the GCC region, highlighting the diverse range of companies contributing to this dynamic sector. #RenewableEnergy #Innovation #Investment #Sustainability #Impactinvestment

GREEN HYDROGEN: LEADING THE WAY IN CLEAN ENERGY INVESTMENT As a cornerstone for a cleaner future, green hydrogen is 100% sustainable and versatile, offering potential for broad commercial, industrial, and mobility applications. The Middle East, known for its oil production, is now pivoting towards clean energy leadership. The UAE aims to produce 1.4 million tons of low-carbon hydrogen annually by 2031 as part of its national hydrogen strategy. Dubai’s "Producer & Hub" strategy could add AED 32 billion annually to the GDP by 2050 and create over 120,000 jobs. Masdar, Abu Dhabi’s clean energy company, plans to produce 1 million tons of green hydrogen by 2030, with projects in Abu Dhabi, Egypt, Morocco, and ambitions in Europe and the Americas. Additionally, the UAE has launched a pilot green hydrogen refueling station, "H2GO," operated by ADNOC Distribution, to test hydrogen-powered vehicles. Saudi Arabia is also advancing rapidly with its Neom plant, aiming to become the world’s largest green hydrogen producer with a target of 650 tones daily by 2026. These efforts will undoubtedly have a far-reaching impact, fostering a sustainable and resilient energy landscape for the future. It is an exciting time for the energy sector, and the progress being made is both inspiring and essential for achieving long-term sustainability goals. #sustainability #GreenHydrogen #Decarbonization #innovation #investments