Latest news with #SajjadAhmad
Gulf Today
01-05-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
MoF hosts forum to explore future of UAE financial sector
Sajjad Ahmad, Deputy Business Editor The Ministry of Finance (MoF) on Thursday organised the 2nd edition of the Financial Media Forum under the theme 'Shaping the Future of the Financial Sector: The Balance Between Influence and Responsibility'. Held in Dubai, the event brought together high-profile government and media leaders as well as over 100 professionals, students, and financial and economic experts. The forum comes at a time when the world is experiencing rapid transformations in the global economy, highlighting the growing importance of the media in supporting financial transparency and transmitting and analysing economic data. It aimed to enhance financial awareness across all segments of society, in line with the country's vision for sustainable economic development. The event also aimed to strengthen collaboration with media entities, emphasising the importance of developing impactful financial content that promotes awareness and helps achieve the country's financial goals. Mohamed Bin Hadi Al Hussaini, Minister of State for Financial Affairs, said: 'The Ministry of Finance is committed to establishing a strategic financial approach that enhances resource management efficiency, in line with global economic developments, as well as to formulating flexible, sustainable financial policies that support the country's development goals. 'We are also working to build an integrated financial system driven by transparency, digital transformation, and robust partnerships between the public and private sectors to drive economic growth and ensure long-term financial stability,' the Minister added. He stated: 'The second edition of the Financial Media Forum is one of the key strategic initiatives aiming to strengthen the relationship between the financial system and national media. We strongly believe that the media plays an essential role in enhancing financial literacy and effectively communicating government policies to the public.' Al Hussaini went on to say: 'The forum provides an ideal platform for exchanging insights and expertise, foreseeing the future of the financial sector, and building a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities ahead. It operates within a framework of transparency and professionalism that aligns with the UAE's vision for financial and economic leadership. The event also reaffirms our commitment to promoting financial awareness across all segments of society, which has become a foundational pillar for building responsible financial behaviour that can help drive sustainability, and inclusive growth forward.' The gathering was attended by Younis Haji AlKhoori, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Finance; Mohammed Saeed Al Shehhi, Secretary-General of the UAE Media Council; and Mohammed Al Hammadi, Director-General of the Emirates News Agency (WAM), as well as several finance department directors from local governments and senior officials from local universities and media agencies. In his opening speech, Younis Haji AlKhoori emphasised that the Ministry of Finance is committed to promoting financial transparency and strengthening cooperation with various sectors to achieve sustainable economic growth in the UAE. AlKhoori highlighted that hosting the forum amidst rapid global economic transformations reflects the government's keenness to enhance its tools and forecast the financial future based on clear, scientific foundations, in line with the wise leadership's vision and the country's long-term aspirations. He stated, 'The Ministry of Finance is forging ahead based on a comprehensive strategic vision aimed at achieving financial sustainability, enhancing government spending efficiency, promoting financial integration, and developing flexible legislation.' He explained that striking a balance between stimulating growth and ensuring sound financial management is a top priority for the Ministry, which is why the Ministry is adopting modern tools and accelerating digital transformation within the financial sector. He also stressed the importance of collaborating with the private sector and empowering national talents to participate in international financial organisations. He concluded by reaffirming that the Financial Media Forum has become a platform for promoting dialogue on the future of the financial sector, adding, 'The media has evolved into a vital partner in supporting transparency and educating the public on financial policies.' He emphasised that the media plays a pivotal role not only in reinforcing the country's efforts to achieve financial transparency but also in providing the public with objective, professional insights into financial trends and policies. AlKhoori voiced his hopes that the discussions during the forum will help strengthen the stability and growth of the national financial sector and solidify transparency and sustainability as key pillars in the UAE's ambitious journey toward building a prosperous and sustainable economic future.
Gulf Today
30-04-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
Innovation drives regional sustainable tourism growth
Sajjad Ahmad, Deputy Business Editor The global travel landscape is increasingly complex, influenced by climate change, environmental concerns, and changing traveller expectations. In the Middle East, destinations are proactively adapting their tourism strategies to tackle these challenges by focusing on resilience, innovation, and long-term value. The region is addressing issues such as extreme weather, shifting consumer behaviours, and geopolitical pressures with agility and ambition. According to UN Tourism, international tourist arrivals reached 1.4 billion in 2024, marking a 99% recovery to pre-pandemic levels and an 11% increase compared to 2023. The Middle East led this rebound, recording arrivals that were 32% higher than in 2019, making it the fastest-recovering region worldwide. At Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025, panellists at the session on 'Redefining Tourism Products in Uncertain Times', held in partnership with the Global Travel & Tourism Resilience Council, discussed how the Middle East is innovating to ensure traveller safety, preserve cultural and environmental assets, and enhance its appeal as a trusted, forward-thinking destination. Ghada Shalaby, Executive Director, Egyptian Hotel Association, said: 'Over the past decade, Egypt has faced several challenges, and we wanted to tailor make our approach to the tour operators and to the end consumer as well... especially during the COVID-19 pandemic when we communicated our health and safety procedures. By the end of 2023, we had reached our big figures for tourist arrivals, which continued into 2024.' During the high-level session on the ATM 2025 Global Stage, cruise industry experts emphasised the sector's advancements in sustainability. They noted that modern ships now operate under some of the strictest environmental regulations in tourism, especially in sensitive areas like the Red Sea. The discussion also addressed how perceptions, more generally, influenced by media coverage and travel advisories, can misrepresent conditions on the ground and impact travel decisions. Ibrahim Osta, Global Tourism Lead, Chemonics International, commented: 'So we have travel media, but you also have the general media. What the media reports has an implication on the interest in that market and the willingness for [tourists] to come [and visit]; this makes the job of the tourism authorities much more difficult.' During the session, delegates heard how perceptions of instability, which are often amplified by social media and outdated advisories, can impact demand for insurance. They emphasised the importance of collaborative storytelling, investing in green infrastructure, and engaging new source markets by offering diverse experiences and cross-border itineraries. Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, said: 'ATM serves as an essential platform for cross-sector dialogue, particularly on issues that affect the future of travel in complex environments. By bringing together representatives from insurance, hospitality, development, and the cruise industry, we are contributing to creating a more connected and resilient tourism ecosystem in the Middle East and beyond.' SLTPB expands partnership: the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) hosted a press conference on the sidelines of Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025 in Dubai, reaffirming its commitment to expanding tourism partnerships and boosting arrivals from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), the broader Middle East, and international markets. The conference highlighted key developments across Sri Lanka's tourism sector, including infrastructure upgrades, market trends, and evolving traveler experiences. Addressing a packed media room, Sampath Nishshanka, Managing Director of SLTPB, outlined the country's strategic focus on community-based experiences, wellness and nature travel, and premium hospitality. 'Sri Lanka is not just a destination - it is an experience shaped by warmth, culture, and meaningful connections that today's discerning travelers seek,' he said. 'We take pride in our heritage and the genuine hospitality that defines us. As we present a renewed vision for tourism, we invite the world - here at Arabian Travel Market - to rediscover Sri Lanka with fresh eyes and open hearts.' The press conference emphasized SLTPB's collaboration with GCC-based travel agencies and airlines to enhance connectivity and curate personalized experiences for travelers in GCC and the wider region. It also spotlighted efforts to strengthen media and trade engagement through authentic storytelling and by reinforcing confidence in Sri Lanka as the ideal travel destination for GCC and Middle East traveller. The Sri Lanka Pavilion at ATM 2025 features a mix of co-exhibitors - including boutique hotels, wellness retreats, and destination management companies (DMCs) - keen to forge partnerships across the region and beyond. SLTPB also unveiled initiatives targeting families, spiritual travelers, and adventure seekers, aligning with summer travel trends. Visa-free entry for GCC nationals, direct air links, and attractive luxury packages further reinforce Sri Lanka's appeal as a premier holiday destination. Emirates and AEME deal: Emirates and American Express Middle East (AEME) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) that intends to expand their collaboration to explore new offerings for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in select countries across the Middle East and North Africa. Together, Emirates and American Express Middle East will explore ways to reach and engage with SMEs through differentiated offers and value driven initiatives. Mazin Khoury, Chief Executive Officer at AEME, noted, 'SMEs are the pulse of the economy across the region and at American Express Middle East we are deeply committed to their success. Through this MoU, we aim to expand our collaboration with Emirates to create meaningful value for small businesses.' Adnan Kazim, Deputy President & Chief Commercial Officer at Emirates, added, 'Emirates recognises the pivotal role SMEs play in driving innovation, creating jobs, and fostering economic growth, and we're committed to providing them with flexible solutions and a unique value proposition for their travel needs. The MoU between Emirates and American Express Middle East brings together two strong brands committed to delivering support to SMEs, empowering them to scale up and thrive in today's economy. We look forward to a successful collaboration.' Shaza Hotels debuts in Bahrain: Shaza Hotels, a leading hotel management company, has announced its entry into the Kingdom of Bahrain with the signing of a management agreement for Mysk Al Fateh Bahrain with Nuzul Masaken Real Estate Development Co., a prominent Bahraini investment company. The agreement was formalised between Simon Coombs, President & CEO of Shaza Hotels, and Ghazi Abdulla Nass, Chairman, Nuzul Masaken Real Estate Development Co in Bahrain. The partnership was unveiled during an exclusive ceremony held at the Shaza Hotels stand at the Arabian Travel Market by Simon Coombs and Faisal Ali Al Farsi, Board Member of Nuzul Holdings. The event was attended by senior leaders from both organisations, including Shaji Abu Salih, Vice President – Business Development and Growth, and Franck Descat, Vice President – Asset Management at Shaza Hotels; as well as Islam Abdelhakim Abo Alam, Board Member of Nuzul Masaken Real Estate Development Co., and Ms Mona Ahmed Al Musallam, Board Member at Nuzul Masaken Real Estate Development Co. Speaking on the occasion, Simon Coombs, President & CEO of Shaza Hotels, stated: 'We are delighted to mark our entry into the Kingdom of Bahrain with such a special property. Mysk Al Fateh Bahrain is a perfect fit for our growing Mysk portfolio – combining contemporary luxury with a sense of place and purpose. Our partnership with Nuzul Holdings reflects a shared vision to bring meaningful hospitality experiences to the region, and we look forward to delivering exceptional value to our guests and stakeholders alike.' Ghazi Abdulla Nass, Chairman, Nuzul Masaken Real Estate Development Co., commented: 'This partnership with Shaza Hotels – a brand known for its cultural depth and operational excellence – reflects our long-term commitment to developing high-quality hospitality assets that meet Bahrain's evolving tourism demand. Mysk Al Fateh Bahrain is designed to cater to the increasing number of long-stay guests, executives, and families seeking a modern, serviced living environment in one of the most connected and cosmopolitan areas of Manama.' Mysk Al Fateh Bahrain, the 15-storey twin tower development, features 118 contemporary suites, including elegant one, two and three-bedroom residences and four exclusive penthouses – each thoughtfully designed for business and leisure guests. Mysk Al Fateh Bahrain will officially open its doors to guests on 1st May 2025. Digital ads: Malika Kennedy, Chief Business Development Officer from Yango Ads said, 'At Arabian Travel Market, we're contributing to the broader conversation around AI and data's role in shaping the tourism industry's future. Brands today face a critical challenge: cutting through digital noise to reach consumers with messages that matter. In the travel sector, where, according to our 2025 Tourism Industry Guide, nearly half of emerging market travellers are influenced by targeted digital ads, and 60% plan trips two to three months in advance, timing and relevance are everything. This shift demands smarter, context-driven campaigns that align with user intent, whether they're actively searching or simply considering a getaway. Travel businesses can tap into advanced advertising tools designed to reach the right audience at the right time.' Qashio's solutions: Armin Moradi, Co-Founder and CEO of Qashio said, 'The Middle East's travel sector is rapidly expanding, with international visitor spending expected to reach $194 billion in 2025. As businesses in this fast-moving space scale, they face growing pressure to manage costs, increase transparency, and improve operational efficiency. At Arabian Travel Market 2025, Qashio is highlighting how our spend management solutions help companies overcome these challenges by digitising payments and offering granular control over spend. We enable travel businesses to reduce fraud risk, cut unnecessary fees, and automate time-consuming reconciliation processes. As the region's travel ecosystem grows more complex, tools like Qashio play a key role in building a scalable, resilient market without slowing down.' Ascott eyes 20%: The Ascott Limited (Ascott), a leading global hospitality operator, announced plans to achieve a 20% annual growth rate over the next five years in the Middle East, Africa, and Turkey (MEAT) region — setting a bold pace for expansion as the region's hospitality and tourism sectors undergo rapid transformation. Unveiled at the Arabian Travel Market 2025, Ascott's growth ambitions align with the region's mega-development programmes such as Saudi Vision 2030 and the UAE's D33 Economic Agenda. The company aims to steadily grow its regional presence toward 15,000 units in operation or under development by 2030, leveraging its flexible living portfolio and experience-led hospitality models. 'We are targeting sustainable, robust growth of 20% year-on-year, guided by a flexible living philosophy and a focus on future-ready cities,' said Vincent Miccolis, Managing Director, Middle East, Africa, and Türkiye, The Ascott Limited. 'As tourism, urban living, and work patterns evolve, Ascott is uniquely positioned to meet the region's demand for hybrid hospitality solutions that blend living, working, and community experiences.' Ascott's expansion plans are anchored by strategic growth in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. In Saudi Arabia, the company intends scaling operations across Riyadh, Jeddah, Makkah, Madinah, and key secondary cities, supported by upcoming openings such as Ascott Villas Riyadh, an upper-upscale living concept set to launch in Q3 2025 and the recent signing of a The Crest Collection hotel located on King Fahd Road in Riyadh. In the UAE, Ascott is deepening its presence in Dubai and entering Abu Dhabi, targeting both tourism and business demand. New projects include The Crest Collection Ras Al Khaimah on Marjan Island, bringing bespoke, story-driven hospitality to one of the UAE's fastest-growing leisure destinations. Looking ahead, Ascott sees a significant opportunity to introduce its highly successful experience-led social living concept, lyf, to the Middle East for the first time. Currently thriving in global cities like Singapore, Bangkok, London, Tokyo, and soon Paris, lyf properties are purposefully designed to foster organic social interactions through shared spaces, community-driven programming, and a tech-enabled, flexible guest experience. From co-working lounges to communal kitchens and curated local collaborations, lyf creates environments that go beyond traditional accommodation — offering a new way of living, working, and connecting. 'The Middle East is undergoing one of the most dynamic urban transformations globally, with young business travelers, digital nomads, and long-stay residents increasingly looking for more than just a place to stay,' said Miccolis. 'The lyf concept is a perfect fit for the region's future cities — blending social living, flexible design, and operational agility in ways that appeal to next-generation travelers and forward-thinking investors alike. The brand has gained a lot of traction in the co-living space over the past three years. We are targeting to sign 150 lyf properties globally by 2030 and we see great potential for many of these to be in the MEAT region.'
Gulf Today
19-03-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
Report highlights cybersecurity challenges in the Middle East
Sajjad Ahmad, Deputy Business Editor State-sponsored cyber threats, including Advanced Persistent Attacks (APTs) and Hacktivism surged in the Middle East in 2024, with GCC countries emerging as primary targets. These attacks are largely fuelled by geopolitical conflicts, according to a report released by Group-IB, a leading creator of cybersecurity technologies to investigate, prevent, and fight digital crime. Released recently, Group-IB's High-Tech Crime Trends Report 2025 provides a comprehensive analysis on the interconnectivity of cybercrime, and the evolving cyber threat landscape in the Middle East and Africa region. The report offers valuable intelligence on advanced persistent threats, hacktivism, and emerging cyber threats, empowering businesses, cybersecurity professionals, and law enforcement in the Middle East with the insights needed to enhance their cybersecurity strategies. The report said that though APTs in the region saw a 4.27 per cent increase compared to a 58 per cent surge globally, 27.5 per cent of these threats from state-backed espionage groups were actively targeted at GCC countries. Commenting on the release of the report, Ashraf Koheil, Regional Sales Director MEA at Group-IB, said: 'Our report captures the dynamic and complex nature of cyber threats faced by the Middle East today. It shows that cybercrime is not a collection of isolated incidents, but an evolving ecosystem where one attack fuels the next. From sophisticated state-sponsored attacks to rapidly evolving hacktivism and phishing campaigns, the insights presented in this report are essential for organizations seeking to strengthen their cybersecurity defences.' While GCC countries were the most targeted due to their strategic economic and political importance, other significant targets included Egypt (13.2%) and Turkey (9.9%), reflecting their geopolitical roles, while countries like Jordan (7.7%), Iraq (6.6%), as well as Nigeria, South Africa, Morocco, and Ethiopia also face growing cyber threats. In 2024, the Middle East and Africa (MEA) ranked third globally in hacktivist attacks, accounting for 16.54% of incidents, trailing behind Europe (35.98%) and Asia-Pacific (39.19%). According to the report, the primary industries affected included government and military sectors (22.1%), financial services (10.9%), education (8%), and media and entertainment (5.2%) sectors were also targeted, with attacks aimed at disrupting critical infrastructure and essential services. This uptick is driven by ongoing geopolitical tensions, where cyberattacks are used for ideological expression or political retaliation. The report also shed light on other pressing cybersecurity challenges including the persistent threat of phishing and data breaches across the GCC and the wider MEA region. As the region continues its rapid digital transformation, it has become a prime target for increasingly sophisticated scams targeting the energy, oil and gas industry (24.9%), financial services (20.2%) highlighting the economic motives behind cybercrime. Phishing attacks also remain a major threat, with internet services (32.8%), telecommunications (20.7%), and financial services (18.8%) being the top targeted sectors in the META region. 'We must embrace a collective defence strategy that unites financial institutions, telecommunications providers, and law enforcement agencies. By sharing intelligence, coordinating proactive security measures, and executing joint actions, we can disrupt fraudulent activities before they cause harm. This collaborative approach not only enhances our ability to detect and prevent fraud but also strengthens the resilience of our critical infrastructure, protects our national security,' added Ashraf Koheil. The report highlighted that ransomware attacks remained relatively low in the MEA region, with only 184 incidents (the lowest globally). It also highlights ongoing concerns regarding Initial Access Brokers (IABs) and the broader vulnerabilities they exploit. In 2024, IAB activity was significant in the region, with GCC countries (23.2%) and Turkey (20.5%) emerging as the most targeted jurisdictions. Meanwhile, the figures for compromised hosts—which represent credentials and sensitive data from compromised devices, often sold on the dark web—were highest in Egypt (88,951), followed by Turkey (79,789) and Algeria (49,173) exposing significant cybersecurity gaps. Dark web economy: Stolen credentials and sensitive corporate data sold on the dark web served as critical entry points for ransomware operators, state-sponsored attackers, and other cybercriminals. The report disclosed that over 6.5 billion leaked data entries included email addresses, with nearly 2.5 billion being unique. Additionally, 3.3 billion leaked entries contained phone numbers, with approximately 631 million unique numbers. A staggering 460 million passwords were exposed globally in 2024, with 162 million of them being unique. This surge in exposed data continues to fuel cybercriminal activities within the dark web economy, amplifying the risk to organizations and individuals alike. Dmitry Volkov, CEO of Group-IB emphasizes the company's role in global cybercrime prevention: 'Group-IB played an intensified role in its global fight against cybercrime and contributed to eight major law enforcement operations across 60+ countries, leading to 1,221 cybercriminal arrests and the dismantling of over 207,000 malicious infrastructures. These efforts disrupted large-scale cybercriminal networks, highlighting the critical role of collaboration between private cybersecurity firms and international law enforcement.' The report said threat actors employed advanced tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs), including social engineering, ransomware, and credential theft. New techniques such as the Extended Attributes Attack, Facial-Recognition Trojan ( and ClickFix infection chain showcase the evolving sophistication of cyber threats in the region.
Gulf Today
19-02-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
Estonia plans to increase its presence in UAE's F&B sector
Sajjad Ahmad, Deputy Business Editor Estonia is committed to improve cooperation with the UAE in the food and beverages (F&B) sector and increase its exports to the country in the coming years, said Piret Hartman, Estonia's Minister of Regional Affairs and Agriculture at the Gulfood on Wednesday. Speaking at the Estonian Pavilion, she said, 'We want to see more and more Estonian firms to come to the UAE and explore opportunities offered by the private sector and the government entities.' Hartman added, 'This year we have 19 companies participating in the event. We look forward to introduce companies to the UAE which are ready to collaborate locally and internationally. We have a wide range of firms with good potential and resources to work with the local companies.' About the cooperation with the UAE in food sector, She explained, 'We share the aim of sustainability. We have technological advantages in food sector which we aim to share with the local firms in the UAE.' She said,' Our participation is increasing year by year in event offers more connections and possibilities and in future we will have more potential. We want to see more and more Estonian firms to come to the UAE and explore opportunities offered by the private sector and the government entities.' Estonia returns to Gulfood 2025 for the 8th consecutive year, reaffirming its role as a pioneer in natural, high-quality, and innovative food production. From plant-based alternatives and collagen-infused wellness products to organic, clean-label and food tech solutions. Estonia's top F&B brands are ready to meet the UAE's demand for health-driven and sustainable products. Estonia's participation reflects its long-term commitment to fostering trade relations in the region. Hartman concluded, 'Estonia's food and beverages industry is deeply rooted in our connection to nature. We are proud to present a diverse selection of sustainable, innovative, and high-quality food products at Gulfood 2025. Our food industry is driven by a commitment to food innovation stemming into health-conscious, environmentally responsible, and cutting-edge solutions, which align with the UAE and GCC's evolving food preferences. Through this platform, we aim to build lasting trade relationships, drive business growth, and introduce Estonian excellence to new markets.' The Estonian Pavilion (S-G52, Trade Centre Arena) proudly showcasing some of Estonia's most innovative and high-quality food and beverage brands, reinforcing the country's reputation as a hub for excellence in the industry. Several Estonian companies have been recognised at the Gulfood Innovation Awards 2025, underlining their impact on the global F&B landscape. Taking centre stage at Gulfood 2025, Thormi Technology has won the best 'Ready-to-Eat' product award for its Shredded Chickenless in Coconut-Curry Sauce, praised for its taste, convenience, and sustainability. Estonia's influence extends further with award nominees Haage, offering natural soft drinks and premium mineral water; Puljong, known for organic, Halal-certified broths and stocks; Revala, pioneers of lactose-free ice cream powders; and Rosena DK, innovators in Collagen-infused plant-based coffees, booster shots and smoothie powders. Estonia's lineup also includes leading brands such as A. Le Coq, Balsnack, BabyCool, CoffeeCrystal, EBM Group, ICONFIT, Öselwise, Punch Club, Salvest, Saku Brewery, Sume Green, SUNFLY, Valio, and YOOK Production, all driving innovation in beverages, snacks, oils, dairy, plant-based, and functional superfoods. Among the product highlights are clean-label organic baby food, allergen-free sunflower seed butters, premium instant coffee from the finest beans, probiotic functional beverages, ultra-convenient smoothie mixes, mindful mocktails, and next-gen dairy-free oat drinks with exciting taste combinations, all showcasing Estonia's innovative edge in natural and health-driven food solutions. 'Having witnessed the evolution of the world's premier food trade show for nearly a decade, we in Estonia are proud to be part of the UAE's dynamic food ecosystem. Estonian companies bring pioneering food tech innovation and zero-waste production expertise to this thriving regional hub, with food comprising 8% of our GDP. We're seeing remarkable opportunities to collaborate with UAE partners, combining our technological solutions with the region's ambitious food security vision, from the Food Tech Valley to advanced vertical farming initiatives' said Fatoumata Tall, Export Adviser to Enterprise Estonia. With 23% organic farmland, one of the highest in Europe, Estonia blends deep agricultural roots with cutting-edge food tech. As a forward-thinking, tech-driven nation, this Northern European country is a natural partner for the UAE's evolving market. On 21 February at 12:50 PM, at Gulfood Top Table, Abu Dhabi-based Estonian chef Hannes Heinpalu will demonstrate Estonia's expertise in plant-based cuisine, showcasing innovative cooking techniques with meat alternatives.
Gulf Today
05-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
Over 2,800 to attend global summit on justice, love and peace in Dubai on April 12-13
Sajjad Ahmad, Staff Reporter Dubai is set to host the world's largest summit focused on justice, love, and peace, welcoming over 2,800 peacekeepers from across the globe. The Global Justice, Love & Peace Summit, themed 'One Planet, One Voice: Global Justice, Love and Peace,' will take place at the Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC), Expo City, Dubai, on April 12-13, 2025. Organised by the I am Peacekeeper Movement, the landmark event will feature an extraordinary lineup of 72 renowned speakers, including 10 Nobel Laureates, global thought leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs, cultural icons, sports champions, and advocates of peace and justice. The summit will be under the patronage of Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, Cabinet Member, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, who will also be the Chief Guest. Announcing the launch of the Global Justice, Love & Peace Summit on February 3, 2025, Dr Huzaifa Khorakiwala, Chairman of the I am Peacekeeper Movement, emphasised the summit's vision: 'Our goal is to bring together global visionaries on a common platform to cultivate a world driven by justice, love, and peace. Under the powerful theme 'One Planet, One Voice: Global Justice, Love & Peace' and 28 Peace Gems, this epoch-making summit will unite global influencers and leaders with the shared mission of fostering universal harmony.' Dubai was strategically chosen as the host city due to its reputation as an oasis of peace and tolerance. The UAE is one of the few nations to have established government ministries dedicated to tolerance and happiness, making it the perfect venue to nurture initiatives aimed at global harmony. Significantly, the launch of the Summit also coincides with the declaration of 2025 as the Year of Community by the UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan. This annual summit will continue to be hosted in Dubai every year, strengthening its role as a global hub for peacekeeping and equal rights advocacy. Global Impact Makers The summit will also feature the Global Recognitions and Awards honoring 28 distinguished individuals and organisations for their exceptional contributions to justice, equality, compassion, and peace. These honorees are selected from 84 nominated personalities through a rigorous non-biased, merit-based evaluation conducted by an independent 28-member Awards Research Committee representing 28 countries. The awards span three major categories: Justice Awards, Love Awards and Peace Awards. The three main awards are divided into 7 sub-categories. These prestigious awards recognize individuals from various sectors, including politics, law, education, activism, media, healthcare, technology, sports, entertainment, and environmental advocacy. 'I Am Peacekeeper' Movement A key highlight of the summit will be the launch of the 'I Am Peacekeeper' movement, a global initiative aiming to unite 1 million peacekeepers by September 21, 2025. 'Peacekeepers are volunteers committed to world peace, universal harmony, and justice,' said Dr Khorakiwala. The movement will engage individuals, organizations, and communities worldwide to take actionable steps toward peace, reconciliation, and justice. Global Conversation The Global Justice, Love & Peace Summit is more than an event, it is a movement toward a fairer, kinder, and more peaceful world. Global leaders, changemakers, and individuals passionate about justice, love, and peace are encouraged to participate and contribute to this historic initiative. Join in the special networking hall where you can book networking slots with delegates of your choice well before the Summit.
