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Showing posts from April, 2025
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Dubai’s Free Zones Set for Major Boost as Companies Seek Neutral Base Amid U.S. Tariff Surge Dubai, April 26, 2025 — Dubai’s strategically positioned free zones are emerging as major beneficiaries of the shifting tides in global trade, as businesses worldwide respond to renewed U.S. tariff policies. With Washington reinstating higher tariffs on imports from China, Vietnam, South Korea, and other major manufacturing hubs, a growing number of companies are turning their focus to Dubai and the wider UAE as neutral, business-friendly destinations for restructuring their supply chains. Industry experts highlight that Dubai’s extensive logistics infrastructure, political neutrality, and progressive regulatory framework offer companies a unique environment to safeguard against the uncertainties of ongoing trade tensions. Many firms are exploring ways to use Dubai’s free zones to relocate final assembly operations or light manufacturing activities. By doing so, they aim to change the countr...
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  ADNOC Drilling Secures $1.63 Billion Offshore Contract to Boost Energy Services Abu Dhabi – April 17, 2025 — ADNOC Drilling has secured a major $1.63 billion contract from ADNOC Offshore for integrated drilling services (IDS), marking a significant step in strengthening the UAE’s offshore energy operations. The five-year agreement will support the delivery of complex, extended-reach, and maximum-reservoir contact wells. As part of the contract, ADNOC Drilling will provide a full suite of IDS services including directional drilling, drilling fluids, cementing, wireline logging, and tubular running. Tayba Al Hashemi, CEO of ADNOC Offshore, emphasized the importance of the deal: “This contract provides us with continued access to ADNOC Drilling’s high-performing capabilities and market-leading services. It will enable us to deliver wells more efficiently while creating long-term value for ADNOC and the UAE.” Abdulrahman Abdulla Al Seiari, CEO of ADNOC Drilling, expressed confi...

"European Startups Soar with Record Investments and Strategic Support in 2025"

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  In 2025, European startups are experiencing remarkable growth, fueled by increased investments and strategic initiatives aimed at fostering innovation across various sectors. European Innovation Council's €1.4 Billion Investment: The European Innovation Council (EIC) has allocated €1.4 billion for 2025 to support deep-tech research and high-potential startups, marking an increase of nearly €200 million compared to 2024. This funding aims to bolster advancements in sectors such as artificial intelligence (AI) and climate resilience. A significant addition to the 2025 work programme is the EIC Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP) scale-up scheme, designed to enhance access to scale-up equity funding for startups developing strategic technologies.  Notable Funding Rounds: Cera Care: In early 2025, Cera Care, a UK-based home healthcare provider, raised $150 million in funding. The investment aims to expand its AI-driven home healthcare services, enhancing patient...

Middle Eastern Nations Accelerate Economic Diversification in 2025 to Reduce Oil Dependency

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  Government Initiatives for Diversification  :  Many Middle Eastern governments are actively pursuing economic diversification in 2025, aiming to lessen their reliance on oil. Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 continues to drive growth in non-oil sectors like tourism and technology, with the non-oil economy projected to expand significantly. The UAE is also advancing its diversification agenda, focusing on knowledge-based industries and attracting foreign investment, building upon the foundations of its Vision 2021. These initiatives involve substantial investments in new sectors, regulatory reforms, and efforts to enhance the private sector's role, all geared towards creating more sustainable and resilient economies in the region.