Latest news with #HelalAlmarri
Trade Arabia
20-05-2025
- Business
- Trade Arabia
VFS launches world's largest visa application centre in Dubai
VFS Global, the global leader in trusted technology services, empowering secure global mobility for governments and citizens, has launched its flagship Visa Application Centre in Dubai's Wafi City, marking the opening of the largest visa application facility in the world. The centre was inaugurated by Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General, Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism; Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General, General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs - Dubai; and Zubin Karkaria, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, VFS Global Group. Helal Almarri said: 'This milestone is more than an infrastructure achievement — it reflects the strategic direction Dubai is taking to enhance global mobility, unlock access to opportunity, and accelerate growth across our visitor and business economy. As we advance the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, strengthening seamless access to and from Dubai remains a priority. Visa facilitation is a key enabler of talent attraction, tourism development, and international partnerships — all essential levers of our strategy to position Dubai as the world's most connected and future-ready city.' Mohammed Al Marri said: 'Today, we witnessed the inauguration of a new milestone in the journey of excellence pursued by the UAE in general and Dubai in particular, with the opening of the world's largest Visa Application Centre, located in the heart of Dubai, a city that continuously redefines innovation. This achievement embodies a true reflection of the directives of our wise leadership towards strengthening the nation's position as a global hub for smart services and establishing a unique model for delivering government services with high efficiency and quality. We believe that continuous development is not an option, but rather a commitment to a more prosperous future.' Karkaria added: 'Operating in the UAE since 2004, our journey has been defined by our unwavering commitment and a deep-rooted connection with this dynamic nation and its visionary leadership. In these two decades we have witnessed the spectacular growth and development of the UAE to become a preeminent global hub of business, thought leadership, technology development and innovation. 'In line with the rapid development of Dubai, today we are pleased to launch the world's largest Visa Application Centre, serving over 200 nationalities in this Year of Community. Working closely with Emirati Entrepreneurs and Emirati Artists, the centre captures and reflects the multicultural fabric of the country that we are proud to call our Global Headquarters.' Designed to meet the surge in outbound travel and rising expectations for security, accessibility, and convenience, the state-of-the-art Dubai centre sets a new global benchmark — built not just for today, but for the travel demands of tomorrow. At nearly 150,000 square feet, the centre is equipped to handle up to 10,000 visa applications daily – a capacity that stands as the highest for any single location – and is supported by a skilled and diverse team of over 400 trained professionals from more than 25 nationalities. Key features of the centre include: • Tech-enabled self-service kiosks, secure lockers, photo booths, and photocopy stations for last-minute needs • Touchscreen info kiosks, QR code-based check-ins with automated feedback at each visa desk • More than 400 on-site staff equipped with tablets to assist applicants, supported by trained volunteers for form and kiosk help • Intuitive, airport-style navigation with clear signage, spacious waiting areas, and a buggy service for easy movement • Dedicated prayer rooms, kids' play areas, and various convenience zones ensuring a truly customer-centric experience • ESG-compliant design with energy-efficient systems and fast-track lanes for seniors, families, and persons with disabilities With rising outbound travel from the UAE, personalised services like the Premium Lounge have become the preferred choice for applicants seeking enhanced comfort and convenience. Of the 200+ submission counters at the centre, 79 are exclusively available as Premium Lounges. The centre is one of the few globally, and just two in the UAE, to offer the Platinum Lounge service, which includes a personalised experience with chauffeur service, end-to-end application support, and a calm, modern setting. – TradeArabia News Service
Zawya
07-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
MENA Capital Market Summit kicks off in UAE for 2 days
Dubai: The third MENA Capital Market Summit has launched today, 6 May 2025, at Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai. The 2025 edition, which is taking place for two days until the 7th, will focus on the forces shaping global and regional capital markets among themes be addressed by over 100 senior market leaders, according to a press release. Dubai Financial Market (DFM) earlier announced the agenda and speaker line-up for the 2025 MENA Capital Market Summit which is exploring the impact of technology on market infrastructure, initial public offering (IPO) trends and high-growth company pipelines, cross-border capital flows, the rise of retail investors and the ongoing transformation of private markets. Speakers include the following names: -Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism and Chairman of DFM -Ken Robins, Head of EMEA Equity Capital Markets at Citi -Richard Cormack, Head of ECM and Convertibles in EMEA and Co-Head of UK Investment Banking at Goldman Sachs -Simon Williams, Chief Economist CEEMEA at HSBC -Lord Stephen A. Carter, Group Chief Executive of Informa PLC The summit will also include keynote speeches, panel discussions and sector-specific sessions featuring speakers from across financial institutions, regulatory bodies, and government. It is expected to convene more than 1,500 participants and around 200 industry partners. With a growing IPO pipeline, rising investor participation, and rapid fintech advancements, the Summit plays a strategic role in driving market development and ensuring the future readiness of capital markets. The 2025 Summit will be introducing The Hub, a new dynamic space designed to foster practical engagement and focused dialogue. It will host partner presentations, fireside chats and panel discussions, alongside demonstrations of DFM's investor platforms, including the iVestor App and ARENA. The Hub will also feature sessions led by DFM and its partners, offering insights into the services shaping Dubai's capital markets today as well as the future initiatives designed to drive continued market growth and innovation. Hamed Ali, the CEO of DFM and Nasdaq Dubai, said: 'The Capital Market Summit reinforces Dubai's position as a global financial gateway, where international capital meets regional opportunity. With AED 10.48 billion raised through IPOs in 2024 and an investor base of 1.2 million participants from over 200 nationalities, we're seeing clear evidence of growing global confidence in Dubai's capital markets.' Group Head of Wholesale Banking, Emirates NBD, Ahmed Al Qassim, noted: 'The 2025 edition is another important opportunity to leverage Dubai's evolving position as a major hub for international banking services, diverse investment, and the integration of the latest digital technologies.' Meanwhile, Andree Chakhtoura, Head of Investment Banking MENA at Bank of America, said: 'Dubai's capital markets continue to grow in scale and sophistication, creating new opportunities for both issuers and investors. As a long-standing partner to the region, we're proud to support the Capital Market Summit and engage in forward-looking conversations on market development, innovation, and the future of global investment flows.' Citi's Head of Financing for Investment Banking, Achintya Mangla, said: 'As a trusted partner in key landmark transactions, we are dedicated to supporting the UAE's evolving financial landscape and strengthening investor engagement. This Summit is an important platform to share insights on IPOs, Capital Formation, and the evolution of markets, and we are proud to play a role in driving that dialogue forward.' To conclude, Mohamed Al Marzooqi, CEO of HSBC Bank Middle East and UAE, stated: 'International investors are increasingly looking towards the UAE and the Middle East for long term growth. The country's deepening capital markets, and strong international connectivity are driving expansion and creating new opportunities.' Al Marzooqi added: 'At HSBC we continue to play a key role in the development of the country's equity and debt capital markets. Of the c.$ 26.20 billion raised in IPOs in the UAE's financial markets between 2022–2025, HSBC was involved in 65% of total deal value.' Source: Mubasher
The National
06-02-2025
- Business
- The National
Dubai GDP grows by 3.1% in first nine months last year
Dubai's economy grew by 3.1 per cent in the first nine months of last year, compared to the same period in 2023, reaching Dh339.4 billion, with growth largely driven by strides in several sectors. The wholesale and retail trade sector reached Dh83.12 billion in the first three quarters of last year, a growth rate of 2.9 per cent. The transport and storage sector grew by 5.3 per cent to reach Dh42.135 billion, while the financial and insurance activities sector increased by 4.5 per cent to reach Dh39.439. Among other sectors in Dubai 's economy, information and communications rose by 4.1 per cent while accommodation and food services grew by 3.7 per cent. The manufacturing sector rose by 2.3 per cent. 'Dubai's exceptional economic performance in the first nine months of 2024 reflects the city's resilience and commitment to innovation-driven growth, and the strategic execution of the city's bold vision embodied by the Dubai Economic Agenda D33,' said Helal Almarri, director general of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). As part of D33, which was launched in 2023, Dubai is looking to establish itself as one of the top three global cities over the next decade and double the size of its economy by 2033. To achieve this, Dubai is aiming to create a globally competitive business environment and reduce business costs, while also strengthening its position as an attractive business hub. 'As the D33 Agenda enters its third year, it reinforces Dubai's commitment to creating a future-ready economy through initiatives that advance innovation, prioritise sustainability, and leverage cutting-edge technologies,' Mr Almarri said. 'As we look to the future, we invite global partners, innovators, and business leaders to join us in shaping this extraordinary journey.' Among the other sectors contributing to the emirate's GDP was information and communications, which accounted for 4.7 per cent of Dubai's economy for the first nine months of last year, a 1 per cent increase from the same period in 2023. The sector achieved a growth of 4.1 per cent and reached a value of Dh15.863 billion. Accommodation and food services grew by 3.7 per cent. Electricity, gas, water and waste management grew by 2.9 per cent. Meanwhile, the manufacturing sector recorded a growth of 2.3 per cent and the real estate sector grew by 3.6 per cent during the first nine months of last year.
Emirates 24/7
06-02-2025
- Business
- Emirates 24/7
Dubai's GDP expands by 3.1% in the first nine months of 2024 to reach AED339.4 billion
- Trade, Transportation and Storage, and Finance and Insurance emerge as the leading sectors driving Dubai's GDP growth Helal Almarri: Dubai's exceptional economic performance in the first nine months of 2024 reflects the strategic execution of the city's bold vision embodied by the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 Hamad Obaid Al Mansoori: Dubai's economy is now poised to shape the future, inspiring greater confidence among investors, talents, and innovators Younus Al Nasser: Dubai's growth has been driven by the leadership's vision and the investment-friendly environment that it has fostered over the years Hadi Badri: By fostering strategic investments, enhancing public-private partnerships, and streamlining business processes, Dubai continues to redefine benchmarks for economic progress Dubai's economy continued its strong upward growth trajectory, with GDP in the first nine months of 2024 rising 3.1% from the same period in 2023 to reach AED339.4 billion. The surge highlights significant strides across key sectors. The wholesale and retail trade sector, the largest in terms of value, reached AED83.12 billion in the first three quarters of 2024, recording a growth of 2.9%. The transportation and storage sector saw an impressive growth of 5.3% to reach AED42.135 billion, while the financial and insurance activities sector grew by 4.5% to reach AED39.439 billion. Among other key sectors, Information and Communications grew by 4.1%, while accommodation and food services sector registered a growth of 3.7 and the manufacturing sector grew by 2.3%. His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), stated: 'Dubai's exceptional economic performance in the first nine months of 2024 reflects the city's resilience and commitment to innovation-driven growth, and the strategic execution of the city's bold vision embodied by the Dubai Economic Agenda D33. Guided by the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai and the directives of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, the emirate has achieved significant advancements across a wide breadth of sectors, including bellwether industries such as logistics, technology, and tourism. Logistics has solidified Dubai's role as a global trade hub, while technology is driving unparalleled innovation, and tourism continues to set global benchmarks, collectively fuelling our growth'. 'As the D33 Agenda enters its third year, it reinforces Dubai's commitment to creating a future-ready economy through initiatives that advance innovation, prioritise sustainability, and leverage cutting-edge technologies. This bold strategy strengthens strategic partnerships and positions Dubai to achieve its ambitious goal of doubling the economy by 2033. Dubai's unwavering dedication to sustainable growth has not only enabled it to set a new benchmark for global competitiveness but also established it as the definitive destination for forward-thinking businesses and investors. As we look to the future, we invite global partners, innovators, and business leaders to join us in shaping this extraordinary journey,' His Excellency added. His Excellency Hamad Obaid Al Mansoori, Director General of Digital Dubai, said: "The economic performance in the first nine months of 2024 represents a vital stage in Dubai's growth and development. This progress has been shaped by the leadership's strategic vision and consistent follow-up across all economic sectors, making Dubai one of the world's most distinctive commercial hubs. Dubai's economy has succeeded in creating a growth model that embraces the latest digital technological advancements and global trends, while preserving its unique characteristics built over time. With a blend of local and global elements, Dubai's economy is now poised to shape the future, inspiring greater confidence among investors, talents, and innovators seeking a business environment defined by flexibility, dynamism, and reliability." His Excellency Younus Al Nasser, Chief Executive, Dubai Data and Statistics Establishment, said: "The new data on economic growth in the first nine months of 2024 marks a significant milestone in Dubai's economic journey, opening the door to further successes. This growth has been driven by the leadership's vision and the investment-friendly environment that Dubai has fostered over the years. These figures offer valuable insights for analysis and forecasting, enabling decision-makers to anticipate future changes across all sectors and make informed decisions to maximise success." His Excellency Hadi Badri, CEO of Dubai Economic Development Corporation (DEDC), the economic development arm of DET, said: 'By fostering strategic investments, enhancing public-private partnerships, and streamlining business processes, Dubai continues to redefine benchmarks for economic progress. The exceptional growth across vital sectors—including transportation and storage, ICT, accommodation and food services, and manufacturing—demonstrates the depth and diversity of Dubai's economy.' 'The transportation and storage sector alone represented a fifth of total growth. Similarly, sectors such as ICT, manufacturing, and accommodation have recorded significant gains, reinforcing Dubai's position as a hub for innovation, commerce, and talent. This sustained performance reflects a unified commitment to bolstering economic stability and positioning Dubai as a premier destination for global investors, entrepreneurs, and innovators. As we advance our efforts under the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, we remain dedicated to facilitating ease of business, attracting strategic investments, and creating an environment that inspires growth. Dubai is not just a business hub; it is a platform for innovation and a gateway to global opportunity, enabling businesses and entrepreneurs to thrive in an ever-evolving economic landscape.' Transportation and Storage The transportation and storage sector reached AED42.135 billion during the first nine months of 2024, achieving a growth rate of 5.3%. It represented 12.4% of the emirate's GDP and contributing to the achieved growth by 20.8% of the total growth achievement. This sector encompasses all activities related to land transport of individuals and goods, water transport, handling and storage, mail services, air transport of individuals and goods, and supporting activities. Among these, air transport was the largest contributor to the sector due to the volume of its production. Its performance was driven by the increase in demand for the services of national carriers in 2024. Information and Communications This sector increased its contribution to the emirate's GDP, accounting for 4.7% in the first nine months of 2024, compared to 4.6% in the same period in 2023. It achieved a growth of 4.1%, reaching a value of AED15.863 billion, contributing 6% to overall growth. The sector's exceptional performance reflects the leadership's vision to position Dubai as a global leader in the future economy, supported by emerging technologies. This aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to enhance the emirate's economic productivity through digital solutions. Accommodation and Food Services This sector achieved a growth of 3.7%, reaching a value of AED11.538 billion, while it accounted for 3.4% of the GDP, and drove 4.1% of overall growth. The sector's growth reflects the effective collaboration between public and private sectors, as well as local and international partnerships, which have played a significant role in strengthening Dubai's position as a leading global tourist destination. These efforts have also helped propel the emirate toward its ambitious goal of becoming the most attractive city for international visitors worldwide. Electricity, gas, water, and waste management This sector's value increased to AED11.203 billion in the first three quarters of 2024, compared to AED10.883 billion in the same period last year. It recorded a growth of 2.9%, contributing 3.3% to the GDP and contributing to the achieved growth by 3.1% of the total growth achievement. Manufacturing The manufacturing sector recorded a growth of 2.3%, bringing its total value to AED28.338 billion in the first nine months of 2024 compared to AED27.699 billion during the same period in 2023. The sector contributed 8.4% to the emirate's GDP, and 6.2% to the growth achieved by the emirate. Finance and Insurance The financial and insurance activities sector grew by 4.5% in the first nine months of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023, reaching AED39.439 billion. Its contribution to Dubai's GDP rose to 11.6%, driving 16.6% of overall growth. Wholesale and Retail Trade The wholesale and retail trade sector was the largest in terms of value, reaching AED83.12 billion. This sector achieved a growth of 2.9% in the first nine months of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023, when its value stood at AED80.803 billion. It contributed 24.5% to the GDP, and drove 22.6% of overall growth. Trade plays a significant role across various activities, encompassing some of the largest companies in the country and region. Its scope is broad, covering a wide range of goods, including final consumer goods, intermediate goods, and capital goods. Real Estate The real estate activities sector grew by 3.6% in the first nine months of 2024, with a total value of AED27.288 billion. The sector contributed 8% to the emirate's GDP and drove 9.2% of the total achievement growth. Other sectors experienced varying growth rates, with the construction sector growing by 2.2% and contributing 6.5% to Dubai's GDP, while driving 4.6% of overall economic growth. All other sectors recorded an average growth rate of 1.2%. Follow Emirates 24|7 on Google News.
