Latest news with #Strategy&
Hi Dubai
6 days ago
- Business
- Hi Dubai
Dubai Press Club Unveils Arab Media Outlook Report as Regional Media Sector Transforms
The Dubai Press Club has launched the Arab Media Outlook – Future Vision, a landmark report that charts the shifting dynamics of the Middle East and North Africa's media industry. Released at the Arab Media Summit in Dubai, the report offers a data-driven roadmap for policymakers, investors, and innovators navigating a sector reshaped by digital disruption and changing audience behavior. Developed in collaboration with Dubai Media City and Strategy&, the report spans five key segments—video, audio, publishing, advertising, and gaming—and forecasts MENA's media market to grow from $17 billion in 2024 to $20.6 billion by 2028. Advertising remains the region's largest media subsegment, but digital-first formats are gaining ground. Internet advertising is projected to grow at 7.2% annually, with gaming close behind at 4.4%. OTT video and music streaming continue to scale, while podcasting and esports are emerging as new growth engines. 'The Arab media industry is entering a new phase, shaped by rapid technological change and evolving consumption patterns,' said Mona Ghanem Al Marri, President of the Dubai Press Club. 'Our goal is to build a globally competitive ecosystem that supports development across the region.' The report highlights AI as a key enabler across the media value chain and underscores the role of updated regulation, talent development, and access to funding in driving sustainable growth. With Dubai positioning itself as a global creative hub, the report aligns with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and the Dubai Creative Economy Strategy, reinforcing the UAE's commitment to a future-ready media landscape. News Source: Emirates News Agency
Broadcast Pro
12-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Broadcast Pro
Unlock future of media at CABSAT 2025 Content Congress
Bringing together key players from across the media, entertainment and technology ecosystem, the congress will explore the forces reshaping the industry and provide valuable insights into the future of television, video and content distribution. Dubai is set to become the global hub for media and entertainment innovation as the CABSAT Content Congress returns to the Dubai World Trade Centre from May 13 to 14, 2025. Against the backdrop of a rapidly evolving industry, this two-day conference will bring together global experts, policymakers and innovators to explore how artificial intelligence, personalised streaming, virtual production and cross-border co-productions are transforming the way content is created, distributed and consumed. As part of the wider CABSAT 2025 event, the Content Congress will serve as a key forum for examining the transformation sweeping across the media and entertainment landscape. With themes centred on digital disruption, new content formats and emerging technologies, the conference promises attendees access to vital insights and strategies to stay ahead of industry trends. Day one, themed Trends, Technology & Transformation, will open with an exploration of how MENA's media sector is being reshaped by government initiatives and innovation. This includes an in-depth look at the region's Ramadan drama boom, which continues to dominate seasonal viewership. The agenda will also dive into the world of virtual production and cinema, focusing on the use of LED walls, real-time rendering, and AI to streamline and elevate the filmmaking process. On the second day, Digital Disruption & New Formats takes centre stage. Panels will delve into MENA's burgeoning $38bn connected TV market, dissect the content strategies of major digital players such as TikTok and YouTube, and explore how regional platforms are carving out their space. One of the most anticipated sessions will spotlight the rise of vertical micro-dramas—short-form content of just one to three minutes—which has grown into a $5bn global trend and presents a major opportunity in the Arab world. Next-generation sports broadcasting will also be a focus, with discussion on how AI, virtual reality and over-the-top (OTT) platforms are revolutionising fan engagement in a sports rights market valued at $6.5bn. Other sessions will tackle the challenges and opportunities in children's programming, highlighting the fact that 80% of MENA's kids' content is currently imported and exploring how local creators can take a leading role. Additional insights will be provided into film commission incentives, including Abu Dhabi's 50% rebate and Dubai's expanding production infrastructure, both of which are helping to position the UAE as a major global production destination. A lineup of speakers will bring diverse expertise to the stage. Among them are Karim Sarkis from Strategy&, who will address AI's growing role in MENA media; Dan Hu of Tencent Cloud, who will explore the future of streaming; and Anuj Samtani of STEREOVISION, who will present on AI applications in cinematography. Actor and comedian Danish Sait will share insights on brand storytelling in the digital age, while Manoj Abraham Mathew from Dubai Studios will speak on co-productions and regional content distribution strategies. Following the main sessions, a third day of bonus programming on May 15 will offer an Emerging Tech Showcase, where startups shaping the media industry's future will present their innovations. Workshops will also provide hands-on learning in content creation, monetisation, and digital strategy.
Arabian Business
08-05-2025
- Health
- Arabian Business
GCC healthcare sector urged to unlock $2.5bn by investing in staff wellbeing
Investing in workforce wellbeing could generate $2.5bn in savings in the GCC healthcare sector, according to research by Strategy& Middle East, part of the PwC network. Long hours, high-intensity work environments, and physically demanding tasks contribute to chronic fatigue and other health problems, the research shows. According to reports, almost 50 per cent of healthcare professionals worldwide are affected by burnout, while nearly 48 per cent globally suffer from musculoskeletal issues each year. GCC healthcare staff wellbeing With the GCC healthcare sector workforce comprising more than 800,000 workers in 2025, investment in strengthening workplace wellbeing has the potential to create significant impact across the sector. Recent studies indicate that healthcare burnout contributes to a fourfold decrease in job satisfaction, while doctors experiencing burnout are 2.2 times more likely to have made a medical error in the past three months. Additionally, the emotional toll of patient suffering, navigating difficult diagnoses, and making life-or-death decisions take an emotional toll. As these challenges mount, healthcare systems become increasingly stretched, with workforce shortages compounding existing pressures. Irfan Merali, Partner at Strategy& Middle East, said: 'With the GCC healthcare sector undergoing rapid transformation and a sizable workforce already employed in the industry, prioritizing workforce wellbeing is more critical than ever. 'Beyond benefiting employees, efforts in this area could deliver clear financial gains and drive broader improvements across the sector, enhancing overall system performance'. The impact on personal wellbeing also extends to financial and systemic repercussions, with poor wellbeing driving absenteeism, staff turnover, and declining job satisfaction, creating a vicious cycle that harms both healthcare workers and patients. Research shows that prioritising workforce wellbeing leads to an increase of up to 25 per cent in productivity, a 17 per cent reduction in absenteeism and an 11 per cent decrease in staff turnover. This also includes an overall impact on the sector including higher job satisfaction, fewer medical errors, and enhanced patient outcomes – and a system-wide potential saving of $2.5bn in the GCC. The research suggests healthcare providers adopt a structured approach that combines preventative and intervention strategies to help drive improvements: Primary interventions, which aim to eliminate or mitigate workplace stressors at their source, could help to foster long-term improvements over temporary morale boosts. By assessing the work environment, organisational practices, and job roles, healthcare institutions can tackle issues such as excessive workloads, rigid shifts, and role ambiguity Secondary interventions, focus on empowering healthcare workers with the skills and strategies to cope with stressors that cannot be avoided or eliminated, such as high patient volumes, ethical dilemmas, and emotional strain. This can be achieved through resilience training, stress management workshops, mindfulness programs, and peer support networks to help employees navigate high-pressure situations effectively Tertiary interventions, designed to assist healthcare professionals already experiencing significant stress-related symptoms can ensure they receive the support needed to recover and reintegrate effectively. Access to counselling, physiotherapy and employee assistance programs can help professionals recover, reduce the risk of physical strain and chronic musculoskeletal conditions, as well as return to optimal functioning. Given that health organisations already provide similar services to patients, there is an opportunity to extend these resources to employees in a cost-effective and sustainable manner Dr. Christelle Abou Nader, Manager at Strategy& Middle East, said: 'A resilient healthcare system depends on healthy, supported professionals who can meet evolving demands. Investing in workforce wellbeing isn't just the right thing to do; it is essential to create a resilient system that enables better outcomes for all. 'By prioritising their wellbeing, the sector ensures long-term quality, efficiency, and sustainability of the entire healthcare system'.
Zawya
07-05-2025
- Health
- Zawya
Strategy& Middle East: GCC healthcare sector could save $2.5bln by investing in workforce wellbeing
Prioritizing healthcare workforce wellbeing results in 17% reduction in absenteeism, 11% decrease in staff turnover, 25% increase in productivity Dubai, UAE: New research by Strategy& Middle East, part of the PwC network, estimates that investing in workforce wellbeing could generate savings of as much as US$2.5 billion in the GCC healthcare sector. The findings highlight the unique set of challenges affecting healthcare workers' physical and mental wellbeing and illustrates how investment in workforce wellbeing could have a significant impact. Long hours, high-intensity work environments, and physically demanding tasks contribute to chronic fatigue and other health problems. According to reports, almost 50% of healthcare professionals worldwide are affected by burnout, while nearly 48% globally suffer from musculoskeletal issues each year. With the GCC healthcare sector workforce comprising more than 800,000 workers in 2025, investment in strengthening workplace wellbeing has the potential to create significant impact across the sector. The human cost Recent studies indicate that healthcare burnout contributes to a fourfold decrease in job satisfaction, while doctors experiencing burnout are 2.2 times more likely to have made a medical error in the past three months. Additionally, the emotional toll of patient suffering, navigating difficult diagnoses, and making life-or-death decisions take an emotional toll. As these challenges mount, healthcare systems become increasingly stretched, with workforce shortages compounding existing pressures. 'With the GCC healthcare sector undergoing rapid transformation and a sizable workforce already employed in the industry, prioritizing workforce wellbeing is more critical than ever. Beyond benefiting employees, efforts in this area could deliver clear financial gains and drive broader improvements across the sector, enhancing overall system performance,' said Irfan Merali, Partner at Strategy& Middle East. The business impact The impact on personal wellbeing also extends to financial and systemic repercussions, with poor wellbeing driving absenteeism, staff turnover, and declining job satisfaction, creating a vicious cycle that harms both healthcare workers and patients. Research shows that prioritizing workforce wellbeing leads to an increase of up to 25% in productivity, a 17% reduction in absenteeism and an 11% decrease in staff turnover. This also includes an overall impact on the sector including higher job satisfaction, fewer medical errors, and enhanced patient outcomes – and a system-wide potential saving of US$ 2.5 billion in the GCC. Adopting a pro-active approach The research suggests healthcare providers adopt a structured approach that combines preventative and intervention strategies to help drive improvements: Primary interventions, which aim to eliminate or mitigate workplace stressors at their source, could help to foster long-term improvements over temporary morale boosts. By assessing the work environment, organizational practices, and job roles, healthcare institutions can tackle issues such as excessive workloads, rigid shifts, and role ambiguity. Secondary interventions, focus on empowering healthcare workers with the skills and strategies to cope with stressors that cannot be avoided or eliminated, such as high patient volumes, ethical dilemmas, and emotional strain. This can be achieved through resilience training, stress management workshops, mindfulness programs, and peer support networks to help employees navigate high-pressure situations effectively. Tertiary interventions, designed to assist healthcare professionals already experiencing significant stress-related symptoms can ensure they receive the support needed to recover and reintegrate effectively. Access to counseling, physiotherapy and employee assistance programs can help professionals recover, reduce the risk of physical strain and chronic musculoskeletal conditions, as well as return to optimal functioning. Given that healthcare organizations already provide similar services to patients, there is an opportunity to extend these resources to employees in a cost-effective and sustainable manner. 'A resilient healthcare system depends on healthy, supported professionals who can meet evolving demands. Investing in workforce wellbeing isn't just the right thing to do; it is essential to create a resilient system that enables better outcomes for all. By prioritizing their wellbeing, the sector ensures long-term quality, efficiency, and sustainability of the entire healthcare system," said Dr. Christelle Abou Nader, Manager at Strategy& Middle East. About Strategy& Strategy& is a global strategy consulting business uniquely positioned to help deliver your best future: one that is built on differentiation from the inside out and tailored exactly to you. As part of PwC, we're building the winning systems that are at the heart of growth every day. We combine our powerful foresight with this tangible know-how, technology, and scale to help you create a better, more transformative strategy from day one. As the only at-scale strategy business that's part of a global professional services network, we embed our strategy capabilities with frontline teams across PwC to show you where you need to go, the choices you'll need to make to get there, and how to get it right. The result is an authentic strategy process powerful enough to capture possibility while pragmatic enough to ensure effective delivery. It's the strategy that gets an organization through today's changes and drives results that redefine tomorrow. It's the strategy that turns vision into reality. It's strategy, made real.
Mid East Info
10-04-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
The Art of Business Diplomacy: How to Thrive in the Relationship-Driven GCC Market
Global entrepreneur Roman Ziemian shares his insights on navigating the relationship-centric business culture of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). Drawing from over a decade of experience, he explores why mastering business diplomacy is the key to long-term success in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and the wider Middle East. Why Relationships Matter More Than Transactions in the GCC In the heart of the Middle East, business still runs on trust, personal connection, and mutual rromanespect. The GCC—which includes the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, and Kuwait—is one of the world's fastest-growing and most promising economic regions. However, succeeding here requires more than a polished pitch deck. It demands business diplomacy, an often-overlooked skill set that combines cultural intelligence, emotional awareness, and strategic patience. Having spent over ten years building business partnerships across the region, I can confidently say: what you sell matters less than who trusts you. In the GCC, business is not transactional—it's deeply personal. Business Comes After the Bond In Western markets, a single meeting can lead to a signed contract. In the GCC, it's not uncommon for initial meetings to revolve entirely around getting to know you—not your business. Deals are made over coffee rituals, evening gatherings, and shared meals, not boardroom pitches. Take Saudi Arabia, for example. It's typical for early discussions to focus on your values, your background, and even your family. This may seem inefficient from a Western perspective—but here, it's essential. Trust is the foundation of long-term business success in Saudi Arabia and the broader Gulf. Find a Local Partner with Government Ties A proven strategy for entering the GCC market is partnering with someone who already has strong relationships—particularly with government entities or national programs like Saudi Vision 2030. This can help streamline processes, open doors to tenders, and align your business with national development goals. Additionally, working with regional consultants such as Strategy&, Oliver Wyman, Roland Berger Middle East, or Delta Partners can accelerate your market understanding and help you avoid cultural pitfalls. Cultural Intelligence Is a Core Business Skill In the GCC, knowing the rules of etiquette and respecting traditions is not optional—it's expected. Cultural intelligence goes beyond superficial greetings or proper dress. It's about understanding the rhythm of the culture and adapting your business behavior accordingly. For example, during Ramadan, meeting schedules shift later into the evening. Business conversations often happen after Iftar, and patience is key. Misreading these nuances can unintentionally signal disrespect or a lack of commitment to the relationship. Use Arabic Greetings & Show Respect Even though English is widely used in business settings, using Arabic phrases like 'Salam Alaikum' or 'Shukran' creates a sense of familiarity and goodwill. Listening carefully, speaking humbly, and showing respect for traditions will take you further than aggressive deal-making tactics. Reputation Is Your Most Valuable Asset In the West, a failed venture or mistake can be left behind. In the GCC, your reputation is your legacy. Business circles are tightly connected, and word travels fast. A missed commitment or short-sighted move can impact your ability to do business for years. On the flip side, consistency, reliability, and integrity are rewarded with long-term loyalty. My advice to new entrants in the GCC market is always this: play the long game. Show up, deliver, and let your character speak louder than your credentials. Vision 2030: A Case Study in Modern Business Culture Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 is the perfect example of how traditional values are being fused with modern economic ambition. The Kingdom is investing heavily in sectors like tourism, renewable energy, infrastructure, and technology—inviting foreign expertise to support its transformation. But make no mistake: while global companies are welcomed, success belongs to those who approach the market with cultural sensitivity and respect for local stakeholders. Companies that assume a 'we know better' stance quickly find themselves on the sidelines. This principle applies across the GCC—from Qatar's post-World Cup development to Oman's push for green energy innovation. The region offers enormous opportunity, but on one condition: build trust first—then talk business. Practical Tips for Doing Business in the GCC If you're a business leader or entrepreneur planning to enter the Middle East market, here are some proven tips: Invest time, not just money : Don't rush. Prioritize informal meetings and genuine conversation. Hire local or regional advisors : A cultural expert or local liaison can help you avoid costly mistakes. Be present—but stay humble : Your presence matters, but let your work speak louder than your words. Be patient with decision-making : Deliberation can take time, but decisions, once made, are often swift and final. Follow up with authenticity : Send a thank-you note, remember personal details, and maintain communication with sincerity. Final Thoughts: Business in the GCC Is About Human Connection I've sat in high-level boardrooms and on traditional majlis carpets, and I can tell you this: doing business in the GCC is a masterclass in relationship-building. It challenges you to listen more, slow down, and grow—not just as a businessperson but as a communicator. In a world where speed and scale often dominate, the Gulf reminds us that trust and depth are the true currency of success. Master the art of business diplomacy, and you won't just thrive in the region—you'll belong.
