Latest news with #SheikhMohammed
Khaleej Times
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
Sheikh Mohammed walks inside Dubai Metro station, greets guests at Atlantis the Royal
Commuters on the Dubai Metro were in for a royal surprise when none other than Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Ruler of Dubai, was spotted casually passing through a station. The UAE Royal was recently seen across the emirate—his latest appearance at Mall of the Emirates, where he strolled alongside staff along the mall's aisles. Sheikh Mohammed's latest appearance at the Dubai Metro station gave public transport commuters an up-close encounter with the UAE Ruler. Earlier this month, he visited a Dubai Tram station and waited patiently like any other passenger then rode the train. In a video posted online, Sheikh Mohammed, who also serves as UAE Vice-President and Prime Minister, is seen walking on travellators which metro riders take to reach the station. Later on, the Ruler takes the electric escalator to go to the platform and wait for the train. View this post on Instagram A post shared by خاÙ�د اÙ�برÙ�طاÙ�Ù� (@khaliduk.32) Sheikh Mohammed then reaches the Sobha Realty Metro station on the metro red line. As with his other appearances this week, he was without armed guards, moving casually which is a striking contrast to many global leaders. View this post on Instagram A post shared by خاÙ�د اÙ�برÙ�طاÙ�Ù� (@khaliduk.32) During another visit to one of Dubai's many landmarks, Sheikh Mohammed walked inside Atlantis the Royal, cane in hand while greeting guests of the ultra luxury hotel.
Emirates 24/7
2 days ago
- Business
- Emirates 24/7
DIFC records best ever performance for the first half of a year
Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), the leading global financial centre in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA), today announced its best-ever performance for the first half of a year, reinforcing its pivotal role in driving the future of finance and contributing to the Dubai Economic Agenda D33. In the first six months of 2025, DIFC saw a record number of new firms establishing operations in the Centre, bringing the total number of active registered companies to 7,700, up from 6,153 in H1 2024 - a 25% year-on-year increase. 1,081 new active registered companies joined DIFC between January and June 2025, a 32% increase on the same period in 2024. The number of professionals working in DIFC rose to 47,901, marking a significant 9% increase from 43,787 a year earlier. His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of the UAE, and President of DIFC said: 'The unprecedented results that DIFC continues to achieve across all fronts are a direct reflection of the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai - a vision focused on positioning Dubai at the forefront of the world's most advanced financial centres. Dubai has entered a new and greater phase of growth, and these results highlight the competitiveness, attractiveness, and global confidence it enjoys. We firmly believe the future holds even more opportunities, and we will continue to strengthen DIFC's capabilities and its ecosystems that foster innovation, agility, and business growth.' A global leader in financial services Driven by DIFC's strategic initiatives and unmatched scale in the region across all sectors, Dubai has been categorised as one of only eight cities globally to possess 'broad and deep' capabilities across all parts of the finance industry in the Global Financial Centres Index (GFCI), standing alongside cities like London, New York, and Paris. Dubai is currently the sole centre in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia to be listed among the top GFCI ranked financial cities globally in several sectors: FinTech (5th), professional services (6th), investment management (8th), infrastructure (9th) and business environment (10th). DIFC continues to advance its position as the region's largest regulated financial services ecosystem. A total of 980 entities are now regulated by the DFSA, the independent regulator for business undertaken from or within DIFC, up 17% year-on-year from 2024. Total Financial services authorisations grew 28% year-on-year, reaching 78 in H1 2025 compared to 61 in H1 2024. DIFC's banking and capital markets cluster is unrivalled in the region, and growth aligns with the demand for broad and deep financial services capabilities to support the region's economic development aspirations. A total of 289 companies operate in this sector, up from 247 a year ago, a substantial 17% growth rate. Dubai is home to the highest concentration of private wealth in any Middle Eastern city, according to Henley & Partners. This has supported growth in DIFC's wealth and asset management cluster, which is the biggest in the region. The number of firms in the sector increased to 440, up from 370 in H1 2024, growing 19% year-on-year. The Centre is now home to more than 85 hedge funds, soaring 72% over the last 12 months and includes 69 billion-dollar funds. Over 10,000 funds are being managed or marketed from DIFC. DIFC's approach to supporting family businesses, including providing access to alternative investments through its wealth and asset management clients, and structures to support growth, continues to ensure the Centre is their preferred location. The number of entities associated with family businesses operating in DIFC has risen to 1,035, up from 600 a year ago, marking a 73% increase. The number of foundations in DIFC have accelerated to 842, up from 548 in H1 2024, a 54% year-on-year increase. The insurance and reinsurance sector also experienced robust growth, with 135 related firms now operating in the ecosystem, increasing 8% from 125 in H1 2024. During the first half of 2025, it was announced that Gross written premiums reached USD 3.5bn for 2024, compared to USD 2.6bn a year earlier – a significant 35% increase. New entrants to DIFC's expanding client base during H1 2025 include ABK Capital, Avaloq, Baron Capital, Bluecrest Capital, Bridge Investment Group, Cambridge Associates, China International Capital Corporation, dLocal, Manulife, National Bank of Kuwait, Pearl Diver Capital, PIMCO, RV Capital, Silver Point Capital, Tourmaline, TransAmerica Life Bermuda, Welwing Capital Management and many others. H.E. Essa Kazim, Governor of DIFC said: 'DIFC remains the driving force behind Dubai's economic growth, as a key enabler of the financial services sector's expansion and diversification. Our consistent performance across all key sectors and rising global standing are evidence of our commitment to supporting innovation, attracting global capital, and reinforcing Dubai's status as one of the world's most competitive and diversified economies.' Arif Amiri, Chief Executive Officer of DIFC Authority commented: 'In the first half of 2025, DIFC has exceeded expectations across every metric. Our strong performance demonstrates the power of our ecosystem, the scale of our platform, and the depth of expertise we bring to the industry. We remain committed to transforming the future of finance from Dubai and advancing our position as the region's number one global financial centre.' A global leader in AI, FinTech and innovation DIFC's innovation ecosystem continued to attract a growing number of technology-led firms. The number of FinTech and Innovation companies reached 1,388, up from 1,081 in H1 2024 a surge of 28%, securing Dubai's position a one of the world's top five hubs for FinTech in the latest Global Financial Centres Index. During H1 2025, this contributed to an overall 28% growth in total active non-financial entities, increasing to 6,335, up from 4,935 a year earlier. The Centre's flagship events, the Dubai AI Festival and Dubai FinTech Summit, collectively attracted over 20,000 participants from 120+ countries. During these events and in support of DIFC's innovation agenda, the Dubai AI Academy was launched, and Dubai Future Finance Week was announced. Being held in May 2026, the week will bring together six major events, including the FinTech Summit, Future Sustainability Forum, and the Dubai Future District Fund AGM. Having launched Ignyte at the end of 2024, a growth platform targeting 100,000 founders, start-ups, and investors subscribers have already redeemed benefits exceeding AED 182mn. This reflects Ignyte's real economic benefit and demonstrates how the platform is an enabler for growth. A global hub for talent Supporting the objectives of Dubai's Education Strategy 2033 and the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, the DIFC Academy has become a preferred choice for world-class universities. Amongst DIFC's partners, renowned universities including American University of Cairo, ESCP Business School, ESSEC Business School, Georgetown University, London Business School, Pantheon Assas University and SKEMA Business School offer 12 masters degree programmes. Through 32 active partners, 46,103 learners have completed programmes at the DIFC Academy since inception, including 4,947 during H1 2025 – the highest ever number in a six month period. To drive long-term impact, DIFC has launched the '1 Million Learners' initiative with the support of 30 founding partners, under the Sustainable Finance Catalyst, which aims to equip one million individuals with sustainability knowledge by 2030. The initiative builds on the demand for sustainability related training at the DIFC Academy which has delivered 6,075 hours of related learning in H1 2025, taking the total programming to 22,241 hours from 42 courses. A global leader in legislation, regulation and governance DIFC's legal and regulatory frameworks continued to evolve to keep pace with global developments. DIFC's legal framework features bespoke, best-in-class legislation, developed from leading international sources and standards to most effectively meet the needs of an international financial centre. This is complemented by a robust system of DIFC common law, with its substantial body of developed jurisprudence. This combination delivers an optimal balance of legal certainty, commercial flexibility, and judicial sophistication - positioning DIFC as the jurisdiction of choice for businesses across the region and globally. During the first half of 2025, the Centre proposed to enact new Variable Capital Company Regulations. The proposed regulations seek to significantly enhance investment structuring and asset management options for proprietary investment in DIFC. Additionally, legal updates were proposed through the DIFC Laws Amendment Law, including refinements to the Law of Security, Insolvency Law and Employment Law, ensuring alignment with international standards. In a milestone achievement underscoring Dubai's growing influence in global governance, DIFC was selected to host the upcoming Global Privacy Assembly 2026, the premier global forum for data protection and privacy authorities. A global leader in real estate and urban development DIFC's real estate portfolio continues to support Dubai's urban development ambitions. Inventory that was provided to the market for the recently launched DIFC Heights, sold out in three days, underscoring strong demand for premium living in the financial district. Over 1.6mn sq. ft. of commercial space is currently under development and construction being accelerated to meet demand. The new space will be ready for occupancy starting from Q1 next year. DIFC also launched a new data platform enabling third-party access to real estate information, aligning with the Dubai Real Estate Strategy 2033.
Khaleej Times
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
Watch: Sheikh Mohammed visits Mall of the Emirates, spotted in Dubai supermarket
Hitting the mall this weekend? You might just spot the Ruler of Dubai, just like these residents. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has been visiting different parts of the emirate all week, surprising residents who catch a glimpse of him. Earlier, he was seen taking photographs with children and having warm conversations with residents while stepping out of a cafe in Dubai Mall. Not just that, the Ruler was also seen walking down the streets of the souk in Deira, despite the sweltering heat. This time, however, residents saw the leader walking past them in the aisles of Mall of the Emirates. On seeing him, one woman even shouted, "We love you!", a clear sign of how cherished he is by those who live here. Dressed sharply as always, the Ruler of Dubai walked with staff, a cane in hand. As with his other appearances this week, he was without armed guards, moving casually which is a striking contrast to many global leaders. Watch the video of him in the mall, below: Later, during the same mall visit, he was seen walking inside a supermarket, which appears to be a Carrefour. People could be seen stepping aside and taking photographs as they saw him pass by. Watch the video of him in the supermarket below: Earlier this week, he also travelled by the Dubai Tram, taking commuters by surprise. Many even pulled out their phones to capture the memorable moment. From malls and souks to trams and supermarkets, Sheikh Mohammed's presence this week has been a reminder of his deep connection with the people of Dubai. His spontaneous outings continue to inspire admiration, not just for his leadership, but for the humility and humanity he brings to it.
Arab News
6 days ago
- Business
- Arab News
Sheikh Mohammed bin Maktoum bin Juma Al-Maktoum joins PFL ownership group
DUBAI: The Professional Fighters League (PFL) today announced that Sheikh Mohammed Bin Maktoum Bin Juma Al Maktoum has joined the PFL's global ownership group. For the latest updates, follow us @ArabNewsSport This strategic addition strengthens PFL's commitment to expanding its presence in the Middle East and supporting the growth of mixed martial arts across the UAE and the region. 'I am delighted to join the PFL's ownership group as I believe in PFL's global vision to grow the sport of MMA, and I am excited by PFL's momentum in staging world-class fight events in Dubai and the UAE region,' said Sheikh Mohammed. Sheikh Mohammed is the founding Chairman of Alpha MBM Investments, a diversified investment company based in Dubai with strategic interests across real estate, technology, energy, and sports. Under his leadership, Alpha MBM has become a key player in driving economic innovation and global partnerships across sectors aligned with the UAE's long-term vision. The PFL has already made a significant impact in the region, having become the first global MMA organization to stage a major event in Dubai earlier this year. The event, held in partnership with Dubai Economy & Tourism and the Dubai Sports Council, featured what many called the most exciting title fight of the year: a clash between undefeated Russian star Usman Magomedov and rising Irish sensation Paul Hughes. 'PFL is excited to welcome Sheikh Mohammed and his expertise to our ownership group,' said Peter Murray, CEO of PFL International. 'This marks another major milestone in our global expansion strategy and reinforces our long-term commitment to expanding our presence in the Middle East. With the addition of Sheikh Mohammed to the PFL ownership group, the league is further poised to deliver premium MMA experiences in the UAE and across the broader MENA region, while also building pathways for regional fighters to compete on the global stage. The PFL is continuously elevating the sport of MMA in the Middle East through the widely-successful PFL MENA franchise, which is currently in its second season. The regional tournament has successfully created stars from the MENA region including the likes of PFL MENA Champions Abdullah Al Qahtani and Omar El Dafrawy, and Middle Eastern women's MMA pioneer Hattan Alsaif. The third event of the ongoing PFL MENA season is expected to take place in September.
Khaleej Times
6 days ago
- Politics
- Khaleej Times
'I spoke with him 40 years ago': Trader recalls meeting Dubai Ruler in Deira
'I spoke with him 40 years ago,' said Abdullah Asad, a spices and dry fruits trader at Dubai's old souk. 'He asked me about the products in my shop. I still remember explaining a few herbal items to him. Since then, I see him once a year, but I never got a chance to speak to him again.' On Tuesday, Abdullah once again saw Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, walk through the narrow lanes of Old Souk Deira. The moment brought back old memories. 'I still cherish that conversation, and it will stay with me for life,' said Abdullah. 'When the Ruler entered the souk, I just said Masha Allah. Everyone around me said the same,' he added. 'He walked through the old market as if he was remembering the past. He also looked around to make sure everything in the souk was working well, just like a leader who truly cares about his people and his city.' The Deira Souk is more than a market, it's a place full of history, rich aromas of spices, and voices from all over the world. For many traders and shoppers, the visit came as a complete surprise. As Sheikh Mohammed passed through, crowds began to gather, hoping to get a glimpse of their beloved leader. 'I froze when I saw him' Some people couldn't believe the Ruler was actually in the market. 'My salesman came running and told me the Ruler is here. I didn't believe him, I have been pranked before,' said Mukhtar Abdullah, a dry fruits and nuts trader. 'But when Sheikh Mohammed came near my shop, I froze. I had to pinch myself to believe it was real. My grandfather and father used to tell me stories of his visits in the old days. Now, I saw him with my own eyes.' Some missed the moment But not everyone was lucky enough to see him. Abdul Badi, a businessman at the souk, missed the glimpse of the Ruler by just a few minutes. 'I saw a few luxury cars arrive around 6pm, but I was busy with some work. Its normal to spot luxury cars in the city. When I returned 20 minutes later, I saw a crowd gathered near my shop. I asked what happened, and someone told me, Sheikh Mohammed was here. My heart sank,' said Abdul Badi. 'This isn't the first time I missed him. It feels like I am never in the right place when he visits.' Cart puller's moment of joy Mohammed Khaliq, a cart puller at the souk, mentioned how he quickly rushed to see the Ruler. 'I was passing by with my cart. I parked it and ran to see him. When Sheikh Mohammed entered the mattress souk, I stood quietly in the crowd,' said Khaliq. 'You can not explain it, but you feel something special when he's near. He has leadership, but also peace and calm. His eyes are kind. His presence is strong, but gentle. His aura is majestic.' Khaliq also noticed how Sheikh Mohammed didn't need bodyguards to push people away. 'There were no loud announcements or barriers. People stepped back on their own, out of love and respect,' he said. 'Greatness begins with humility' Back in his shop, Abdullah Asad reflected on what the visit meant. 'I'm 72 now. I have seen this market change, and I have seen this city grow into something amazing. But when you see Sheikh Mohammed walking these same streets, it reminds you that true greatness comes from being humble."
