Latest news with #UAEMinistryofEconomy
Hi Dubai
a day ago
- Business
- Hi Dubai
Ministry of Economy Grants Second Music Rights Licence to Music Nation
The UAE Ministry of Economy has officially granted its second collective music management licence to Music Nation, reinforcing the country's commitment to protecting intellectual property and advancing its creative industries. The announcement was made during a ceremony at the Ministry's headquarters in Dubai, attended by senior officials including Under-Secretary Abdullah Ahmed Al Saleh and Assistant Under-Secretary for Intellectual Property Dr. Abdulrahman Hassan Al Muaini. This licence authorises Music Nation to oversee the management and distribution of rights for music creators and performers across the country. It follows the first such licence awarded to the Emirates Music Rights Association in April 2025, under the UAE's Federal Decree-Law No. 38 of 2021 on copyright and related rights. Al Saleh described the move as a strategic milestone that aligns with the National Strategy for Cultural and Creative Industries 2031, aimed at fostering a globally competitive creative economy. He emphasised the importance of public-private partnerships in supporting talent, innovation, and sustainable growth within the sector. Dr. Al Muaini highlighted the music industry's rapid expansion, citing Dubai's 350 live music venues and a national streaming market projected to grow from US$841.9 million in 2024 to US$2.3 billion by 2030. He stressed the Ministry's commitment to establishing strong legal frameworks and promoting best practices to ensure fair compensation for creators. Music Nation Chairwoman Rasha Khalifa Al Mubarak said the organisation is poised to become a leading force in music licensing, protecting rights holders and showcasing the UAE's cultural richness. Strategic partnerships with global entities like BMI and SoundExchange are expected to enhance transparency and revenue distribution. The initiative is a significant step forward in positioning the UAE as a regional hub for music and creative enterprise. News Source: Emirates News Agency
Mid East Info
2 days ago
- Business
- Mid East Info
Nestlé Honors Youth Innovation with First-Ever Sustainability Heroes Award - Middle East Business News and Information
Nestlé's flagship youth initiative celebrates student-led sustainability solutions from over 200 participants — and announces the program's return for a second edition launching in November 2025. Under the auspices of the UAE Ministry of Economy and the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, Nestlé and INJAZ UAE announced the winner of the inaugural Sustainability Heroes Award. This youth-centered initiative has equipped more than 200 university students across the UAE with the skills and mentorship to develop innovative sustainability solutions. Kleva, composed of students from University of Sharjah, took top honors for their project,— a dynamic project-based learning platform providing students and young professionals with real-world experience before formal employment. Their proposal stood out for its originality, viability, and potential to create measurable social impact. The winning team will now begin internships with Nestlé, gaining hands-on experience and access to further mentoring opportunities to help refine and scale their solution. Over six months, students engaged in a 'Learning by Doing' format emphasizing entrepreneurship, business acumen, and real-world impact. At the heart of the program is the INJAZ UAE Company Program, which transforms classrooms into start-ups. Students worked in teams to develop business solutions addressing real sustainability challenges while learning from each other and industry professionals. Emphasizing sustainability-driven entrepreneurship, the program empowered participants to build innovative, purpose-led ventures that respond to pressing environmental and social issues. Throughout the journey, students received dedicated training and hands-on mentorship from Nestlé professionals, gaining exposure to real-world business contexts and sustainability practices. As a result: Nestlé employees mentored the students; 10 internships and 15 mentorship opportunities will be extended to top students, with the winning team securing automatic placements to the internships; Finalists are acquiring critical business skills to serve them in future roles, whether as employees or entrepreneurs. The Sustainability Heroes Award celebrates not only the winning solution but also the broader movement to foster sustainable thinking and practical action among the UAE's emerging talent. A platform with long-term purpose: 'As we look ahead to the next phase of the UAE's economic transformation, programs like Sustainability Heroes will continue to play a vital role in equipping our youth to lead with purpose and contribute to the knowledge economy,' said His Excellency Abdullah Ahmed Al Saleh, Undersecretary of the UAE Ministry of Economy. Ms. Hajar Bakhit Alketbi, Director of the Government Communication Department at the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, added: 'Youth are central to climate action and sustainable development. The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment is committed to developing the young people of our country as the leaders of tomorrow, a premise that underpins the Sustainability Heroes Award. We believe their role is critical to climate action, and we are committed to strategically integrating young people into every aspect of our efforts to combat climate change. Their energy, enthusiasm, and skillset are invaluable assets that can drive real transformation and help us achieve our sustainability goals. I commend Nestlé's efforts in inspiring student-led sustainability projects, demonstrating how the private sector can contribute to our climate initiatives. I also commend all the participants for their remarkable projects and eagerly anticipate the next edition in November.' Ms. Sarah Shaw, CEO of at Majra, said: 'At Majra, we believe in unlocking the potential of youth to lead national progress. Sustainability Heroes is a prime example of how partnerships can equip young people with the skills, mindset, and confidence to turn their ideas into action — not only for their own futures, but for the future of our planet.' Hassan Atia, General Business Manager of Nestlé UAE, commented: 'This award is not just a recognition of student excellence — it's a celebration of bold ideas and a powerful commitment to change. At Nestlé, we're proud to walk alongside young changemakers building a better future for people and the planet. This initiative is a reflection of our global commitment through the Nestlé Needs Youth program, which empowers young talent with the skills, opportunities, and platforms they need to thrive. And this is just the beginning — we look forward to expanding the program's reach and impact in the next edition.' The Sustainability Heroes initiative is designed as a long-term platform to equip youth with the tools and mindset to contribute meaningfully to the UAE's national priorities — from sustainability and climate resilience to entrepreneurship and food security. By embedding sustainability into entrepreneurship education, the program supports the development of job-ready, purpose-driven talent capable of building solutions for a better tomorrow. Following the success of its first edition, Nestlé and its partners will launch the second edition of the program in November 2025, with an expanded mandate to reach more students across the UAE and deepen its impact nationwide. About Nestlé in the UAE: Nestlé's regional office for the Middle East and North Africa is based in Dubai South, and the company operates across the Emirates with offices in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Fujairah, and Ras Al Khaimah. Nestlé works with more than 850 customers in the UAE and more than 1,700 retail outlets in the country, including supermarkets and pharmacies. The company locally produces confectionary, dairy, culinary, and coffee, at two food and beverages factories in Dubai and operates two water manufacturing sites, one in Dubai and one in Abu Dhabi. Nestlé employs more than 1,300 people from different parts of the world, while providing indirect employment to hundreds more.
Web Release
2 days ago
- Business
- Web Release
Rafeeg Unveils Revolutionary AI Interior Design Tool and Franchise Initiative at GITEX Europe 2025
Rafeeg App, a leading UAE-based platform in the home services sector, made a bold statement at GITEX Europe 2025 with the unveiling of its new AI-powered interior design algorithm, allowing homeowners to professionally design their spaces without hiring interior designers or conducting in-person consultations. The announcement signals a major move toward digital transformation in home design while also setting the stage for Rafeeg's global expansion, starting with Europe. The patent-pending algorithm, currently undergoing the registration process with support from the UAE Ministry of Economy and Khalifa Fund, employs AI to instantly generate high-quality and fully customized interior design concepts based on user input. Without the need for costly site visits or manual layout reviews, the technology significantly reduces the time and the cost that is often associated with home redesign. It is expected to launch publicly by the end of 2025. Rafeeg introduced an innovative franchise pilot program at the event, inviting interested European partners to participate in a fully funded, one-month trial with no obligation to continue afterwards. During the opening days of the exhibition, more than 20 European businesses expressed formal interest in the program. Rafeeg will cover all startup costs during the trial, providing partners with a low-risk opportunity to test the platform in their respective markets. 'We believe that the success of a startup depends on cultivating knowledge, trust, and a seamless operation. This vision is what Rafeeg stands for and presents,' said Khamis Alsheryani, Founder and CEO of Rafeeg. 'We're excited to extend that vision to Europe and beyond.' Founded in 2017, Rafeeg was created to bridge the gap between homeowners and vetted service providers in the UAE. The app currently supports over 140,000 users and a network of 4,500 service professionals, including electricians, interior designers, and renovation specialists. The platform has already processed over AED 50 million in transactions and is celebrated for its focus on quality assurance, affordability, and customer satisfaction. What sets Rafeeg apart is its mission to empower local businesses rather than compete with them. Through comprehensive training programs, operational support, and strict quality control, Rafeeg helps small and medium-sized contractors to scale their operations and elevate their service standards. Their collaborative approach has been a key pillar of the brand's success in the UAE and is central to its strategy for future expansion. The company's participation in GITEX Europe represents a strategic initiative to enter new markets. Supported by the UAE's national innovation agenda, Rafeeg is actively seeking like-minded partners across the Northern Emirates, GCC countries, and key European cities to collaboratively develop the next generation of home services. Entrepreneurs and investors interested in joining Rafeeg's international growth journey can apply for the limited-time franchise trial through or by reaching out to the team at [email protected].
Al Etihad
08-05-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
Ministry of Economy introduces geographical indications for national products
ABU DHABI (WAM) The UAE Ministry of Economy announced the launch of the geographical indications (GI) system for national products - a first-of-its-kind federal initiative designed to safeguard local products with unique features and characteristics originating from specific geographical regions in the UAE. The initiative aims to enhance the intellectual property (IP) protection framework for products with national identity, and unlock new opportunities for UAE's industries in global markets. Launch event The launch event was organised by the Ministry in the presence of Lieutenant General Dhahi Khalfan, Deputy Chief of Police in Dubai, and Abdullah Ahmed Al Saleh, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Economy, in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority, Dubai Municipality's Food Safety Department, Ras Al Khaimah Department of Economic Development, the General Women's Union, and the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi. The event was attended by over 200 participants, including senior officials, experts, specialists, and representatives from government and private sector entities, along with the local community and various institutions concerned with IP protection and sustainable development in the country. IP protection The UAE, guided by its wise leadership's vision, has adopted an ambitious vision to solidify its position as a global hub for the new economy, based on knowledge and innovation, in line with the 'We the UAE 2031' vision. The UAE has made IP protection and development of its legislation a national priority, serving as a key enabler for a creative and sustainable economy. The launch of the GI system reflects the country's commitment to protecting the cultural identity of UAE products, promoting them globally, converting them into economic assets that contribute to developing local communities, and enhancing economic diversification. The UAE continues to reinforce its IP legislative framework to enhance the competitiveness of the national economy, in line with global best practices. A special chapter on geographical indications has been added to the trademark law, outlining mechanisms for their registration and protection, thus preserving the national identity of products and enhancing their competitiveness locally and internationally. New, effective tool The launch of national products with geographical indication is a new milestone in offering comprehensive protection for trademarks related to geographic environments and national products that carry cultural and local identity. It unlocks new avenues for their growth and achieves the integration of economic, knowledge-based, and heritage-driven aspects. GI tagging is an effective tool for elevating the value of UAE products in regional and global markets as it sets them apart. It also plays a key role in supporting agricultural and artisanal products, preserving traditional knowledge and boosting consumer confidence. The Ministry of Economy developed this initiative in collaboration with specialised national entities, following a comprehensive approach that enhances flexibility of implementation and ensures the participation of local communities and producers in the development process. The Ministry will continue to expand the scope of GI registrations to cover new categories of eligible artisanal and food products, boosting their value in target markets. Identified products Four national products included in the first phase of GI tagging were announced during the launch event. Efforts are currently underway to register and protect these products within the framework of the new system. These include honey from the Hatta region, known for its superior quality owing to the mountainous environment and traditional production practices, alongside ceramics from the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, known for its long legacy in craftsmanship and handcrafts as one of the emirate's most prominent exports. Dabbas dates from the Al Dhafra region, which carry an authentic agricultural character and distinguished reputation, have also received a unique identity, as have the traditional palm frond products that are crafted across various emirates and reflect the UAE's authentic artisanal heritage. The product registration service will be fully available online through the official website of the Ministry of Economy, which will begin accepting applications for GI registration from both within the country and abroad. The process will adhere to approved guidelines and standards that take into account the geographical, natural, and traditional attributes of each product. Currently, the Ministry is reviewing 25 additional products, including 13 food items and 12 handicraft products, in preparation for their registration. By the end of this year, the total number of products covered by the service is expected to reach six. Economic growth The registration of national products under the new GI system opens up broader export opportunities for them. The initiative aligns with the country's efforts to promote tourism in unique destinations, achieve resource sustainability, and build a global reputation for national products, thereby reinforcing the strength and resilience of the national economy. The event featured two panel discussions: the first highlighted several leading global experiences in GI tagging national products, while the second showcased successful national models that demonstrate the quality of GI tagged products and its positive impact on promotion, export, and national reputation. The Ministry of Economy also honoured the initiative's partners during the event in appreciation of their efforts and active role in the development of the system. The new GI system stands out as an effective tool that advances the country's efforts to foster both individual and institutional innovation, while protecting intellectual property rights in the UAE in line with the nation's broader aspirations to achieve the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In this regard, the protection of national products through GI tagging contributes to achieving Goal 8, which focuses on 'Decent Work and Economic Growth,' by stimulating local production, creating sustainable job opportunities, and increasing the economic value of products. It also supports the achievement of Goal 9 related to 'Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure,' as it enhances the development of value chains in both traditional and modern industries, promotes innovation in production methods, and contributes to building a knowledge-based and quality-driven economy. Global trends in GI tagging The World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) in its World Intellectual Property Indicators report 2024 noted that there are more than 58,600 active geographical indications worldwide as of 2023. Europe led the way, accounting for 52.5 percent of registered geographical indications globally, followed by Asia with 39.5 percent. The UAE's Trademarks Law provides comprehensive protection for geographical indications, recognising them as a form of trademark linked to a specific geographic origin that grants the product unique characteristics and distinctive quality. The law allows the registration of geographical indications as a legal right, ensuring their IP ownership, and preventing their misuse by others in ways that could mislead consumers or tarnish the reputation of original products, provided they are protected in their country of origin. The law protects registered products from imitation, counterfeiting, or any unauthorised use, including any misleading presentation or labelling that suggests a false geographic origin, as such actions negatively impact consumer awareness and the rights of producers. Additionally, the law prohibits the use of geographical indications in contexts deemed as unfair competition, in accordance with the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property and the international agreements applicable in the country, ensuring that national legislations align with global best practices in this field. According to the Trademarks Law, a GI tagged product refers to any product originating from a WTO member country or a specific area or location within that region, where the product's quality, reputation, or other characteristics are primarily attributable to its geographic origin. GI tags serve as a strategic tool to support Emirati products, help protect the nation's identity and cultural heritage, and solidify the UAE's position on the global stage. They represent a link between the past and the present, contributing to economic sustainability by supporting traditional industries and local projects. GI tagging also plays a crucial role in supporting entrepreneurs and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by providing sustainable economic opportunities, distinguishing their products in local and international markets, and contributing to the diversification of the national economy.
Zawya
25-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Empowering UAE Restaurateurs: How cost-effective tech solutions can help UAE F&B startups grow
The UAE has emerged as one of the fastest-growing startup ecosystems in the world. As the UAE's F&B sector continues to thrive, emerging restaurateurs and young entrepreneurs are increasingly seeking innovative yet affordable technology solutions to streamline operations and drive efficiency. Recognizing this demand, Foodics, a leading Saudi-born food tech company, is actively empowering F&B businesses and playing a pivotal role in supporting the growth of F&B startups across the MENA region by providing a comprehensive suite of cost-effective, tech solutions designed to simplify restaurant operations and fuel growth. With F&B startups facing increasing pressure to compete in the market and stay agile while delivering seamless customer experiences, cost-effective technology tools enable these businesses to optimize operations, improve customer engagement and manage resources effectively. Solutions ranging from accessible point-of-sale (POS) systems to inventory management tools to online ordering platforms are providing crucial support for these F&B ventures. By adopting such technologies, startups can easily streamline order processing, gain valuable insights into sales trends in order to make data-driven decisions, automate inventory tracking to minimize waste, manage customer bookings seamlessly, simplify payment processing and enhance overall customer experiences. Foodics, a cloud-based restaurant tech and management company stands out as a key tool that empowers F&B startups in the UAE and beyond. Offering a comprehensive suite of cost-effective technology tools and solutions tailored for restaurants and F&B businesses, Foodics paves the way for restaurateurs to seize business opportunities, streamline operations and bring operational efficiency and increase profitability with innovative, tech-driven solutions. The leading food tech company has also established strategic partnerships with the UAE Ministry of Economy to support and foster the growth of SMEs locally and globally, fostering transformation within the F&B industry, with services and products geared to expedite their inception and growth. Demonstrating its commitment to empowering restaurants and F&B businesses in the region, Foodics has introduced the Super Saver kit - a comprehensive kit designed to equip restaurants with the necessary hardware, software, and delivery app integrations. The kit is currently being offered at a reduced price, providing an affordable solution for entrepreneurs aiming to establish or expand their culinary ventures with tech tools. About Foodics Founded in 2014, Foodics is the leading restaurant operations and payment tech company in the MENA region, powering the operations of more than 30,000 restaurants with an all-in-one software and hardware ecosystem to manage. The Saudi-born company offers cloud-based all-in-one Restaurant Management System (RMS), Point of Sale solution (POS) and payment systems that are developed in-house with hands-on industry intel and caters to F&B establishments. Foodics offers various tools and solutions including Foodics Online, Foodics Pay, Foodics Marketplace, and Foodics Accounting, equipping restaurateurs with innovative technology tools to establish resilience, foster customer connections and sustain growth.
