2019 GCC Enterprise Awards • www.mea-markets.com
2
2
0
0
1
1
9
9
GCC GCCEnterprise Enterprise Awards Awards
Best Bridal Jewellery Retailer 2019 – UAE & Award for Innovation in Social Media Marketing - UAE
Most Innovative Content Marketing Agency - Dubai
Fête Events Events Company of the Year 2019 - UAE A team of artists, dreamers and designers, Fête Events in the heart of Dubai is a powerhouse of creative excellence. Delivering emotionally-impactful weddings, or laugh-out-loud birthday parties, Mallika Singh and her team create multi-sensory experiences like no other. See why they are one of the best events companies of the year across the United Arab Emirates in 2019.
Editor’s Note
, Welcome to the 2019 GCC Enterprise Awards Returning for the third year, the GCC Enterprise Awards celebrates the accomplishments made by the most talented, innovative, and dedicated firms and individuals across this diverse and vibrant market. Despite a challenging economic climate in the region, business performance in the GCC remains stronger than ever and we want to acknowledge the efforts which have made this so. Our award winners will become part of an exclusive and illustrious group, comprising of some of the most influential and promising names in the market today. Hannah Stevenson, Editor Phone: +44 (0) 203 725 6842 Email: h.stevenson@aiglobalmedialtd.com Website: www.mea-markets.com AI Global Media, Ltd. (AI) takes reasonable measures to ensure the quality of the information on this web site. However, AI will not assume any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, correctness or completeness of any information that is available through this web site. If errors are brought to our attention, we will try to correct them. The information available through the website and our partner publications is for your general information and use and is not intended to address any particular finance or investment requirements. In particular, the information does not constitute any form of advice or recommendation by us or any of our partner publications and is not intended to be relied upon by users in making or refraining from making any investment or financial decisions. Appropriate independent advice should be obtained before making any such decision. Any arrangement made between you and any third party named in the site is at your sole risk and responsibility.
Contents
, 4. 6. 7.
8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14.
15. 16.
Fête Events: Events Company of the Year 2019 - UAE GORE Consultants DMCC: Risk Management Consultancy of the Year 2019 Madenat Al Nokhba Recycling Services L.L.C: Best One-Stop Environmental Services Company – Dubai & Leading Providers of Business Recycling Solutions - Dubai Al-Ajaleen Legal Consultants & Intellectual Property: Most Trusted IP Law Experts 2019 Brazen MENA: Most Innovative Content Marketing Agency - Dubai Kukri Sports Middle East DMCC: Best Bespoke Sportswear Manufacturer - MEA Romai: Best Sportswear Brand 2019 Emirates Pallet Factory LLC: Best Pallet Manufacturer & Distributor - UAE MAGAS International: Best Emerging Business Platform 2019 - Middle East La Marquise Diamonds & Watches LLC: Best Bridal Jewellery Retailer 2019 – UAE & Award for Innovation in Social Media Marketing - UAE New Horizons Kuwait: Best IT Training Provider 2019 UAE Sector Development Gets A Helping Hand
Jul19146 Jul19466
,
Events Company of the Year 2019 - UAE
Fête Events A team of artists, dreamers and designers, Fête Events in the heart of Dubai is a powerhouse of creative excellence. Delivering emotionally-impactful weddings, or laugh-out-loud birthday parties, Mallika Singh and her team create multi-sensory experiences like no other. See why they are one of the best events companies of the year across the United Arab Emirates in 2019. Carefully designed and meticulously arranged, Fête Events specialise in conceptualising, designing and perfectly executing weddings and corporate events. The company take pride in organising highly customised events that are tailored to meet the clients every need, from the oddest quirk, to the most eclectic eccentricity. Formed in 2012, Fête Events is the realised dream of part-musician, part-designer, Mallika Singh. An undeniable leader of avant-garde events in Dubai, Singh is famed for skilfully crafting event masterpieces that change perceptions and create multisensory experiences for her clients. Prior to the formation of the company, mounting social appreciation of her solo work resulted in Singh utilizing her passion in an entrepreneurial capacity, which brought about the birth of Fête Events.
4 MEA MARKETS / 2019 GCC Enterprise Awards
Events Company of the Year 2019 - UAE
“From the most obscure song in an equally obscure movie to the most hard-to-find unique decorations, this company are slaves to detail and will settle for nothing less than what the client desires.” Determined to meet every challenge headon, Fête Events demand that their clients demand the very best from them, and nothing less will do for this high-quality firm. For those fond memories that are to be preserved forever, this company are dedicated to ensuring that everything is absolutely perfect. From the most obscure song in an equally obscure movie to the most hard-to-find unique decorations, this company are slaves to detail and will settle for nothing less than what the client desires. Masters of emotional engagement, the team at Fête Events work tirelessly towards creating the atmosphere of client’s dreams. Ensuring that there isn’t a dry eye at a wedding, or that guests are clutching their stomachs in laughter at a birthday party, the team will not rest until that perfect moment is achieved and captured for all eternity to be enjoyed long after the event has ended. Carefully designed and meticulously arranged to stimulate all five senses, guests are sure to be taken on a journey at an event created by this talented team. Pouring their hearts and souls into every event, the successes of Fête Events lie in creating truly unforgettable experiences for their clients. Mindful of all budget sizes, this tremendously talented team of designers can ensure that no matter the event, every single detail is perfect.
Contact Details: Contact: Mallika Singh Website: http://www.fetedubai.com/ Instagram: @feteeventsdubai
MEA MARKETS / 2019 GCC Enterprise Awards 5
Jun19148
, Risk Management Consultancy of the Year 2019
GORE Consultants DMCC With over 20 years combined experience in marketing, risk management and accountancy for companies based around the world, GORE Consultants is able to provide expert support and services to a wide range of clients from its base in Dubai. Having recognised the firm in this year’s GCC Enterprise Awards we profile it to learn more. Supporting HNWI individuals, companies and family offices, GORE Consultants is able to provide a wide range of services. There are two segments to the company: oil price risk management, which includes hedging loss with regards to price movements and volatile oil and distillate prices, in order to enhance profitability. Hedging is done via trading desks using swaps, collars and options in Singapore and Middlefart in Denmark through GRM , which is the risk management arm of Bunker Holdings. The firm also offers structured products to de-risk financial portfolios in equity indices, equities and bond markets, and as such is able to provide its clients with all the support and solutions they need. Structures are provided using major issuers like Leonteq,UBS,BNP and Citi, to name a few. Combining high quality support and service with expert knowledge of the global financial markets, GORE Consultants is able to ensure that every client receives the support they expect that will ensure their portfolios are always as risk averse as they require them to be. Efficient pricing, quick service and complete price transparency are central to the firm’s service offering, and as such clients know that they are in safe hands when they work with this experienced and dedicated consultancy company. Internally, GORE Consultants boasts an opendoor policy and a flat management structure. The team believes in providing first class in-house training and one-to-one mentorship to ensure that staff are able to offer clients the very highest possible standards of service. Looking to the future, GORE Consultants aims to increase its footprint by stepping into the American market. This international expansion will drive the company to even greater heights and brand recognition over the coming years.
Contact Details: Gore Consultants DMCC Almas Towers 1st Floor Business Centre Unit 916 Jewellery and Gemplex 3 Dubai P.O. Box 5785, United Arab Emirates Tel +9714 2426499, +97150 3892121
6 MEA MARKETS / 2019 GCC Enterprise Awards
Jun19212
, Best One-Stop Environmental Services Company – Dubai & Leading Providers of Business Recycling Solutions - Dubai
Madenat Al Nokhba Recycling Services L.L.C Located in the of heart of Jebel Ali, Dubai, Madenat Al Nokhba Recycling Services L.L.C is one of the region’s leading recycling firms. We profile the firm to find out more about how it came to win not one but two of this year’s coveted GCC Enterprise Awards.
With over 30 years’ experience and expertise in e-waste and universal waste management, Madenat is able to provide tailor-made solutions for e-waste management which are effective and efficient. Additionally, the firm is committed to creating a safe and Eco-friendly atmosphere at its plant, and therefore ensuring that clients feel supported throughout the recycling process. As a Dubai Municipality approved company Madenat is able to guarantee safe disposal of waste materials. As part of this guarantee, the firm provides all customers with a Destruction/
Recycling Certificate. Therefore, clients can rest assured that when they work with this dynamic company they will receive the exceptional standard of service they expect.
communities. In addition, Madenat offers Rebate Programs to assist offset company’s cost incurred during the life cycle of product.
With safety such a focus, at Madenat the team’s recycling process guarantees safe disposal of Waste Electrical & Electronic Equipment (WEEE), all kinds of lamps, all mercury bearing devices and universal waste.
Looking to the future, Madenat will remain dedicated to driving excellence in recycling and supporting a wide range of clients across the UAE and offering them the award-winning services they have come to rely on over the past three decades.
Seeking to offer a hassle-free approach, the firm constantly aims to make provisions for the collection and responsible recycling of some waste streams free of cost to promote and encourage recycling within the UAE
Contact Details: Company: Madenat Al Nokhba Recycling Services L.L.C Contact: Joseph Nforbin Website: https://madenatrecycling.ae
MEA MARKETS / 2019 GCC Enterprise Awards 7
Jun19295
, Most Trusted IP Law Experts 2019
Al-Ajaleen Legal Consultants & Intellectual Property Seeking to offer award-winning IP Law services, Al-Ajaleen Legal Consultants & Intellectual Property was founded by a group of experienced legal and IP practitioners who have in-depth experience in the Middle East and Gulf region in the field of legal and intellectual property. We profile the firm to find out how these experts have driven the firm to the success it enjoys today. Established in 2007, Ajaleen works tirelessly to achieve long term representation of corporate clients to form a close working knowledge of its client’s business, long-term goals and competitive position. Striving towards excellence for every client, the firm is focused on client satisfaction, providing high quality representation in a very timely manner. As part of this focus, Ajaleen’s dedicated staff are committed to high ethical and professional standards, as well as state-of-theart technology, so as to provide a comprehensive range of Legal and IP services tailored to meet their clients’ needs. All of the firm’s expert team work hard to ensure that clients receive the support they need that is tailored to meet their exact requirements. Supporting clients from throughout the corporate landscape, the practice can provide a wide range of services, including trademarks, copyright protection, patents, IP watch services and renewal support. As a result, clients know that they are
in safe and experienced hands when they work with Ajaleen. Overall, moving forward Ajaleen’s goal is to build a better future by adopting technology to the legal industry and providing quality services to clients. This will remain the firm’s core focus as it looks towards a bright and exciting future.
Contact Details: Company: Al-Ajaleen Legal Consultants & Intellectual Property Name: Abdullah Al Ajaleen Address: Akrash Center, Office No.1, Ground Floor, Prince Abdulaziz Bin Musaid, Al Jalawi, Street (Dabab Street), Beside Saudi Hollandi bank, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Telephone Number: +966-50-58-987-08 Web Address: http://www.ajaleen.com/
8 MEA MARKETS / 2019 GCC Enterprise Awards
Jun19313
, Most Innovative Content Marketing Agency - Dubai
Multi-award-winning Brazen MENA provides a fresh, cutting-edge approach to communications coupled with extensive local experience to ensure clients across the region receive the content marketing solutions they need to get their brand recognised. Louise Jacobson provides us with a riveting insight into the firm’s work and how this benefits a vast array of clients across the Middle East and North Africa.
Since its launch in 2015, Brazen has been shortlisted for 32 industry awards including Small Agency of the Year 2018 and 2019 for MEPRA and PRCA MENA. It offers a full suite of PR and social media services across consumer and corporate sectors across the region. Based in the heart of Dubai’s Media City, the firm also offers social media and influencer engagement ensuring it engages with clients through its storytelling, whether the client require exposure in a business publication or social media content to enhance their profile.
IMAGE
No matter what service they require or industry they operate in, what unites Brazen’s clientele is the exceptional standard of service they receive from this dynamic and dedicated company, as Louise is keen to emphasise. “At Brazen, we have a very clear philosophy on client service that revolves around client satisfaction: we go the extra mile to achieve results and we never settle for good enough. Our creative and strategic approach means that our ideas cut through the clutter but always relate to a business objective which we clearly agree at the beginning of a campaign. We always have an open and honest dialogue with clients to ensure we get the best results for the brand, this is why we have worked with renowned clients such as Disney and Atlantis, The Palm for many years. “We have an uncompromising and passionate approach when it comes and the results we garner for them. We conceptualise and deliver ideas that impact beyond the traditional means. We have a multi-cultural team comprised of former journalists, influencers and other industry expertise which means we’re highly skilled at our practice and we are largely made up of senior personnel, so clients can be assured they will have experienced counsel and a very high standard of work.” This talented team is at the centre of the firm’s success, and as such Brazen is constantly looking to provide them with a
supportive internal culture. Louise discusses this in detail and speaks with pride about the atmosphere she and her team cultivate in the Brazen offices. “Internally, the Brazen culture has a family feel, with trust and respect at the core. We invest a lot in training and development and all team members have bespoke career plans meaning we have a high retention rate. Employee wellbeing is very important to us, which is why we declared 2019 a year of wellbeing having been inspired by the UAE Government’s annual initiatives. As part of the wellbeing commitment, the team receive a number of benefits including duvet days, mindfulness sessions, wellbeing hours and monthly team socials.”
“Thanks to our success, Brazen now contributes a lot to the PR and communications industry here as well as just our business which will continue to be key for us. I’m a member of the MEPRA Strategy Board and one of our account directors is Vice-Chair of ‘Next-Gen’ which is run by PRCA MENA. We help our industry bodies ensure standards are as high as possible and we also collaborate with local universities to help train the new PR stars of tomorrow. This will remain our core focus over the coming years as we look to enhance our current reputation for excellence even further and drive the region’s PR and communications markets to even greater heights.”
Contact Details: As she reflects on how far her firm has come over the past four years, Louise is proud of all the hard work of her team and excited for an opportunity filled future, as she concludes. “Overall, the future is very bright for Brazen. We have a strong brand with a fantastic reputation that we have built based on our award-winning results since we launched in 2015.
Company: Brazen MENA Name: Louise Jacobson Address: 2001, Al Thuraya 1, Dubai Media City, Dubai, United Arab Emirates Telephone Number: +971 4 240 8395 Web Address: uae.wearebrazenpr.com
MEA MARKETS / 2019 GCC Enterprise Awards 9
Jun19315
, Best Bespoke Sportswear Manufacturer - MEA
Kukri Sports Middle East DMCC Kukri Sports Middle East aims to empower peak performance through the provision of industry leading sportswear. As part of our showcase of some of this year’s GCC Enterprise Awards winners we profile the firm to learn more about the innovative products it has to offer.
“...the team take great pride in their attention to detail, passion, quality and constantly being innovative to assist our clients in their goals in the sporting arena.” Offering bespoke modern sportswear for schools, clubs and companies across the Middle East region, Kukri Sports is focused on quality in order to drive its clients towards the sporting prowess they deserve. From conception to delivery, the team take great pride in their attention to detail, passion, quality and constantly being innovative to assist our clients in their goals in the sporting arena. For both on and off field wear, clients need look no further than Kukri Sports. With solutions for a variety of sports including rugby, football, hockey and cricket that include everything from hoodies and jackets through to safety wear and accessories, there is something for everyone from this dedicated sportswear supplier. Offering only its own branded products, Kukri Sports provides the highest possible quality solutions so that clients know they will only receive the best when they buy from this innovative firm. All of its products can be
customised with team names, logos and other amendments so that clients can receive exactly the product they want. Throughout the process the Kukri Sports team aim to make it fun and enjoyable for clients so that they keep coming back to buy their quality sportswear from this dynamic and growing brand. Ultimately, Kukri Sports aims to become the go-to market player for all sportswear, and as such over the coming years the firm will grow at a steady pace to work towards achieving this ambitious goal.
Contact Details: Company: Kukri Sports Middle East Name: Gwillym Poole Address: Mazaya Business Avenue, JLT Telephone Number: 0561998104 Web Address: www.kukrisports.ae
10 MEA MARKETS / 2019 GCC Enterprise Awards
Jun19330
, Best Sportswear Brand 2019
Romai Unique to the market, Romai is the first and only Emirati Sportswear brand that develops and manufactures its own range of products. In celebration of its win in this year’s GCC Enterprise Awards we profile the company and share an insight into how far it has come since it first began. Founded in 2012, Romai is a UAE based sports brand that designs and manufactures sports clothing and accessories. From humble beginnings sponsoring a local club, after a mere seven years Romai has risen to the top of its market. The brand now participates in the biggest tournaments through big teams such as Senegal national team that participate in the African cup, as well as sponsoring the UAE special Olympic team in the special Olympics games that were hosted in Abu Dhabi. Collectively, the brand’s expert team boast over 20 years of experience in the regional sportswear industry, as well as having supported and been part of the growth of various international sportswear brands. Behind the brand’s design philosophy is the belief that speed and agility are the cornerstones of athletic performance, and this influences every product that Romai produces and provides to its valued clients. The brand’s creations are meticulously designed to offer the best in mobility and comfort. Currently, the brand currently sponsors some major names in Football, which include the national teams of Jamaica and Bahrain, along first division football clubs found in the Bahrain and Saudi leagues.
Moving forward, Romai will continue to provide its awardwinning sportswear to a wide variety of professional and private clients to drive greater recognition for its brand. As part of this drive for greater
renown the brand intends to open its first flagship store this year and sponsor a club in the English premier league so that it can appeal to an international clientele in the future.
Contact Details: Company: Romai Contact: Khamis Al Rumaithy Email: khamis@alrumaithy.com Website: https://www.romaiworld.com/
MEA MARKETS / 2019 GCC Enterprise Awards 11
Jun19356
, Best Pallet Manufacturer & Distributor - UAE
Emirates Pallet Factory LLC Emirates Pallet Factory L.L.C is an innovative pallet company that can manufacturer and distribute products for a variety of uses. We profile the firm to find out more about how it came to win one of our coveted GCC Enterprise Awards for 2019. Since its inception in 2003 Emirates Pallet Factory has risen to become one of the largest Wooden Pallet Manufacturer in the United Arab Emirates. From the very beginning the company quickly established a reputation for quality, services and reliability, driven by the needs of our customers. Today, Emirates Pallet Factory is a well-established and successful company offering comprehensive wooden pallet manufacturing and recycling solution. The firm now has the capacity for supplying wood pallets as per its customer requirements. As a well-established and successful company offering comprehensive wooden pallet manufacturing and recycling solution, Emirates Pallet Factory is able to meet the needs of a variety of clients based throughout the UAE and beyond. Alongside its provision of a wide variety of pallets for various uses, the firm also offers the heat treatment of all timber products, cable drums, pallets and crate boxes as well as the repair of wooden pallets. As such, clients know they can come to this dynamic and dedicated company for any of their wooden packaging needs and that
“...Emirates Pallet Factory’s mission is to ensure the highest level of customer satisfaction by providing best quality of pallets and continuously improving business processes with dedication.” they will be met to the highest possible standard. Overall, Emirates Pallet Factory’s mission is to ensure the highest level of customer satisfaction by providing best quality of pallets
12 MEA MARKETS / 2019 GCC Enterprise Awards
and continuously improving business processes with dedication. This will remain the firm’s ongoing focus as it looks to open a branch in Oman and expand its international reach.
Contact Details: Company: Emirates Pallet Factory Name: Amro Almasri Address: Dubai Industrial Park Telephone Number: 04 442 8981 Web Address: http://epfllc.ae/
Jun19374
, Best Emerging Business Platform 2019 - Middle East
MAGAS International For almost a decade MAGAS has enabled entrepreneurial energy and gives new entrants to build their businesses with the support of this unique professional services platform. As part of our showcase of a selection of this year’s deserving GCC Enterprise Awards winners we provide an in-depth overview of the firm and its unique solution. Initially founded in India in 2010 as a tertiary services company, over the years MAGAS has culminated into professional services destination for crowd sourcing and delivery of professional services in India and Arabian Gulf.
needs of businesses and then connects them with service providers that can provide them with the solutions they require to grow and prosper. The firm’s expert team will work with businesses until they have achieved their objectives to ensure success for everyone it supports.
When the firm first began the team developed a concept whereby they could bring Lead Generation and Service Delivery together under one roof to help businesses find ease and make professional help more affordable. They tested this concept in India by launching a Professional Services Company.
The firm’s unique platform creates an online destination and facilitates trade and commerce between parties not just monetarily but also through other synergies. It creates a channel for cross border connect whereby end users can use the platform for their service needs from any location. All listed services can be procured, managed and delivered through the firm’s platform. The value to end users will be that all their service needs will be fulfilled through crowd sourcing under a single window platform thus saving energy, time and money.
Later the team wanted to push the boundaries in this segment and wanted to create and online platform, so the team used Media to create a new dimension to use it for qualified Lead Generation and Service Delivery. They filed for copyrights calling it “Service Media”. Today MAGAS is still 100% founder owned, headquartered in the UAE and holds the global copyrights for the concept of Service Media. Thanks to its innovative solution, MAGAS connects with small and medium sized enterprises, professionals, innovators, entrepreneurs and freelancers across various geographies and industries which can fulfil their business needs with cost effective solutions arising from shared economy and idle resource capacity. It delivers services at an affordable price to empower entrepreneurs, start-ups, SMEs and more. Working closely with clients and service provides, MAGAS works to understand the
Seeking to enhance its already impressive success, MAGAS invites investors who are willing to invest in great ideas at an early stage. The team firmly believe that a good investor support can foster bright ideas, and as such they are always keen to work with new investors who will help drive their unique idea forward and support both MAGAS and the companies it works alongside.
offering. Moving forward the company will remain driven towards providing the exemplary solutions and support it has become renowned for.
Ultimately, MAGAS’s mission is to support businesses when they need support. As part of this focus, the firm provides handholding support until businesses stand on their own. The firm’s team believe small ideas can make big difference if they get the right support at the right time, and as such they work hard to create an ecosystem to help businesses sustain and benefit through MAGAS’s service
Contact Details: Company: MAGAS International Contact: Alan Gomes Website: www.magasinternational.com & www.magas.services
MEA MARKETS / 2019 GCC Enterprise Awards 13
Jul19068
, La Marquise: Best Bridal Jewellery Retailer 2019 – UAE & Award for Innovation in Social Media Marketing - UAE
La Marquise: Best Bridal Jewellery Retailer 2019 With over three decades of experience in the luxury jewellery industry, La Marquise Diamonds & Watches is able to provide truly exquisite pieces that will make anyone feel like royalty. Having recognised the firm in this year’s GCC Enterprise Awards we profile it and showcase the truly spectacular jewellery it provides to its esteemed clientele. Thanks to a legacy of excellence in jewellery manufacturing and retail, over the years La Marquise has risen to become a multi-award-winning creator of timeless and exclusively designed diamond and gemstone jewellery. Boasting high precision detailing and handcrafted finesse, their jewellery is synonymous with art. The La Marquise story commenced with the transformation of precious stones into spectacular pieces of fine jewellery, which are unique and splendid in its formation. Over the years the brand has evolved and adapted its service offering to meet the needs of its discerning clientele. La Marquise has now grown into a global chain of retail boutiques located in major shopping malls, luxury hotels and select airport retail. With a ‘mines-to-market’ philosophy, the company showcases its commitment to sourcing only the finest minerals, gemstones and metals for its jewellery and crafting them into pieces of art that clients can be proud of and cherish forever. Spanning across classic and contemporary design sensibilities, La Marquise appeals to all tastes. La Marquise’s customised approach and inclusive portfolio has attracted the attention of fashionable socialites and is
graced by women belonging to almost every segment of society. Every article of jewellery sold by the firm is backed with a certificate of authenticity, providing clear information of stones to assure complete transparency. Creating bespoke jewellery that clients will adore is the brands core focus, and as a result it has become revered by brides, couples and jewellery connoisseurs from around the world. Designed to meet even the highest expectations, La Marquise’s service offering includes providing clients with design inspiration and working with them to understand the occasion for wearing the item, exploring budgets and allowing customers to select their own gemstones. The award-winning design team visualise and creatively map their inspiration onto paper and then showcase these designs for client approval. As part of this focus on client satisfaction and providing a truly luxury jewellery design experience, La Marquise allows clients to view the design in the sketch phase, 3D wax stage and prior to stone setting. Working from their state-of-the-art manufacturing facility, located in Dubai, a team of experienced craftsmen blow life into pencil sketches to create a sparkling trance of jewellery. For those brides and individuals that want every detail to be taken care of, this is the place as La Marquise
14 MEA MARKETS / 2019 GCC Enterprise Awards
ensures nothing is left to chance and that clients are involved throughout the product creation process. Ultimately, La Marquise’s vision is to adorn the world with timeless designs, unmatched craftsmanship and exclusive jewellery that redefines luxury.
Contact Details: Contact: Sasha Saadat Website: http://lamarquisejewellery.com/
Jul19366
, Best IT Training Provider 2019
New Horizons Kuwait Based in the heart of Kuwait, New Horizons Computer Learning Centre is an innovative entity committed to providing award-winning IT training and support to a wide range of clients. In celebration of the firm’s attained status winner award in this year’s GCC Enterprise Awards, we profile the firm to find out more. Part of the New Horizons Computer Group which became operational in 1997.New Horizons Kuwait draws on this legacy of excellence to provide its clients with top quality computer support and training. Thanks to the expertise of its team, New Horizons Kuwait City offers an extensive selection of vendor-authorized training for top technology providers, not limited to Microsoft, CISCO, Huawei, CompTIA, Adobe, Oracle, PMI, IBTA, and VMware. The firm’s team understand that not everyone’s learning needs or preferred methods are the same. Therefore, New Horizons Kuwait flexible training approach gives the firm the ability to customize specific classes to satisfy the identified needs.
Over the years, New Horizons Kuwait has adopted a futuristic learning methodology to suit the needs of modern trainees and provide knowledge in best ways, like Online LIVE, Online ANYTIME, On-Site Training, Private Classes and the most on-trend methodology, which it is Mentored Learning. The firm’s courses are taught by experienced, vendor-certified instructors. As a result, students receive cutting-edge insight and knowledge, delivered by the best trainers on the market currently. All staff at New Horizons Kuwait, from admin staff through the teachers who are committed to providing the highest possible standard of client service and ensuring that all trainees learn and thrive.
“The firm’s team understand that not everyone’s learning needs or preferred methods are the same. Therefore, New Horizons Kuwait flexible training approach gives the firm the ability to customize specific classes to satisfy the identified needs.” Overall, New Horizons Kuwait aims to remain an on-going concern and a pioneering leader in the training industry, and this will be the firm’s core focus throughout the remainder of 2019 and further into the future.
Contact Details: Address: The state of Kuwait, Sharq, Ahmad Al Jaber Street, Dasman Complex, Floor 1, Block 1 PO Box 304, Postal code 15454 Telephone Number: 0096522240190 Web Address: http://www.newhorizons.com.kw
MEA MARKETS / 2019 GCC Enterprise Awards 15
,
UAE Sector Development Gets A Helping Hand Dubai International Financial Centre boosts UAE financial sector development and reports significant growth during first half of 2019. Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), the leading international financial hub in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA) region, reinforced its contribution to the UAE’s economy and its commitment to driving the future of finance, following strong performance during the first half of 2019. The Centre saw sustained growth in the first half of 2019, welcoming more than 250 new companies, and bringing the total number of active registered firms to 2,289, demonstrating a 14 percent increase yearon-year. This has fuelled the creation of over 660 jobs, boosting the Centre’s combined workforce to more than 24,000 individuals, and has resulted in the occupancy of 99 percent of DIFC-owned buildings. The DIFC now boasts more than 671 financial related firms, an 11 percent increase from the same period last year. The financial services firms that joined in 2019 include Maybank Islamic Berhad from Malaysia, Cantor Fitzgerald from the United States of America, Atlas Wealth Management from Australia and Mauritius Commercial Bank. In addition, leading non-financial firms including Guidepoint MEA, Medtronic Finance Hungary Kft. and Network International, have also joined the Centre in the first six months of 2019. His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and President of the DIFC, said: “Dubai continues to gain recognition on the global stage as the destination where business meets innovation, and the DIFC has been a significant driver of this. The strong performance that the Centre has delivered during the first half of 2019 highlights the confidence and trust that international financial
institutions have in Dubai. Aligning with the 50-year charter announced by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the planned expansion of the DIFC will solidify Dubai’s role as a pivotal hub for companies from around the world to access regional opportunities.” His Excellency Essa Kazim, Governor of DIFC, commented: “The DIFC has been a pioneer in the financial services sector since its inception in 2004, as the first purposebuilt financial centre in the MEASA region. 15 years on, we continue to demonstrate our forward-thinking approach with the enhancement of our legal and regulatory framework, as well as the development of a comprehensive ecosystem. The Centre remains a fundamental driver in leading financial sector transformation, supporting the advancement of the UAE economy, and developing the next generation of financial professionals.” Driving the Future of Financial Services in MEASA In response to the strong demand the DIFC continues to witness from financial institutions across the globe, the Centre embarked upon 2019 with the announcement of new expansion plans, supporting the economic future of Dubai and the UAE. The phased growth plan will triple the scale of the leading financial hub and enable the DIFC to help deliver on Dubai’s ambitious growth agenda, whilst diversifying and transforming the financial services sector within the wider region. The new development will provide an international focal point for FinTech and innovation, enhancing the Centre’s reputation as one of the world’s most advanced financial centres and reinforcing Dubai’s position as
16 MEA MARKETS / 2019 GCC Enterprise Awards
one of the world’s top ten FinTech hubs, as listed by FT’s The Banker. The Centre has already seen a marked increase in the number of firms that make up its dynamic FinTech ecosystem, which more than doubled in size from over 80 to 200 companies in the last six months. Similarly, the number of licensed FinTech firms operating in the DIFC increased from 35 to more than 80 in the first half of 2019. Key international FinTech firms that have made the Centre their MEASA base include Dublinbased software company Fenergo, InsurTech leaders Charles Taylor and Swedish crowdfunding platform, FundedByMe. Arif Amiri, Chief Executive Officer of DIFC Authority, commented: ‘We are continuing to cement our global position as a pivotal business and finance hub, while making significant headway towards meeting our 2024 targets. Our focus on innovation
UAE Sector Development Gets A Helping Hand
and technology is delivering a blueprint for sustainable growth as we continue our journey towards driving the future of finance. DIFC’s emphasis on transforming its lifestyle offering, alongside strategic investments within technology and FinTech means we are confident about reinforcing our position as a leading global financial centre – a great place to live, work, play and do business.” The Centre received 425 applications from start-ups operating in the RegTech, Islamic FinTech, InsurTech and broader FinTech sectors, for the third cohort of its DIFC FinTech Hive accelerator programme, a 42 percent increase from the 2018 programme. This also marked a three-fold increase from its inaugural cycle in 2017, exemplifying the pace of evolution of this fast-growing industry, as well as the preference of Dubai and the DIFC as the home for FinTech firms looking to scale their business across the
region. Approximately half of the applications received for the 2019 programme originated from the Middle East, Africa and South Asia. 33 start-ups have been selected following a series of interviews, conducted in consultation with DIFC FinTech Hive’s network of 21 participating partners, including Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB), Emirates Islamic, Emirates NBD, Finablr, HSBC, National Bank of Fujairah, Noor Bank, Riyad Bank, Standard Chartered, and Visa, as well as the associate financial institution partners Arab Bank and First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB). InsurTech start-ups will work closely with leading insurance players, AXA Gulf, Noor Takaful (Ethical Insurance), Zurich Insurance Company Ltd (DIFC), AIG, Insurance House, Cigna Insurance Middle East S.A.L. and MetLife, to help them develop gamechanging solutions that address the growing requirements of the industry. In addition, this
year’s finalists will be supported by strategic partner Dubai Islamic Economy Development Centre (DIEDC) and digital transformation partner Etisalat. Furthering the Centre’s commitment to supporting FinTech in the region, DIFC hosted the first Demo Day for the inaugural cycle of the Startupbootcamp programme in April 2019, alongside HSBC and Mashreq. The event showcased innovative concepts from ten graduates of the programme, consisting of entrepreneurs from the UAE, Singapore, United Kingdom, Greece, France, Thailand, Ghana, Morocco, Ukraine, and the Czech Republic. The Centre’s thriving FinTech community benefits from the strong relationships the DIFC has continued to build with key international accelerators through ongoing delegations and partnership agreements. The DIFC signed four MoUs during the first half
MEA MARKETS / 2019 GCC Enterprise Awards 17
UAE Sector Development Gets A Helping Hand of 2019, one with Dubai SME to help foster entrepreneurship in the UAE and further the National Innovation Agenda, as well as three additional agreements with FinTech Saudi, Milan’s FinTech District and FinTech Istanbul, expanding the Centre’s network of international FinTech hubs to 14. Furthermore, DIFC has worked to increase access to funding by engaging and building its Venture Capital ecosystem, as well as investing directly into promising FinTech startups. In March 2019, the Centre announced the appointment of Middle East Venture Partners and Wamda Capital to manage USD 10 million of its dedicated USD 100 million FinTech fund. To date, DIFC has received more than 50 applications from a variety of financial technologies, including payments, roboadvisory, blockchain and KYC platforms. The applications received have been in equal parts from early and growth stage firms, signifying interest from firms across the startup business cycle. Supporting Human Capital Development and Delivering Sustainable Impact As part of the DIFC’s efforts to support continued professional development and strengthen the regional talent pool, the DIFC Academy offers world class financial and legal education through strategic partnerships with 26 leading educational institutions and government entities. To date, the DIFC has seen more than 5,500 graduates successfully undertake executive education courses and programmes in finance, business and law, as well as two dedicated Masters of Laws (LLM) programmes. Knowledge sharing and thought leadership remained a core focus for the financial centre in 2019. The third edition of the Dubai World Insurance Congress (DWIC) and the second edition of the Global Financial Forum (GFF) welcomed more than 700 industry leaders to each flagship event. Key speakers at DWIC included James Vickers, Chairman of Willis Re International and David Watson, Chief Executive Officer for Europe, Middle East and Africa and International Casualty at AXA XL, who shared global perspectives on reinsurance growth strategies. Meanwhile, the GFF, which brought together more than double the number of business leaders compared to the inaugural event in 2018, attracted the likes of Sir Gerry Grimstone, Former Chairman of Barclays Bank PLC and emerging markets guru, Mark Mobius. In recognition of DIFC’s efforts towards building one of the world’s leading financial centres over the last 15 years, the Centre was the only free zone in the UAE to receive the Dubai Quality Award in April 2019. The award is a reflection of the DIFC’s hard work and dedication in building a sustainable and progressive business environment. In May 2019, another milestone for sustainable business growth was achieved as Majid Al Futtaim launched the world’s first benchmark corporate Green Sukuk at Nasdaq Dubai, supporting Dubai’s growth as the global capital of Islamic economy. The Green Sukuk investment will be used to finance
and refinance Majid Al Futtaim’s existing and future green projects, including green buildings, renewable energy, sustainable water management, and energy efficiency. Enhancing the Legal & Regulatory Framework to Fuel Growth The Centre has been at the forefront of enhancing its legislative infrastructure to provide the DIFC community with access to opportunities within the MEASA region, whilst providing greater stability and certainty when doing business in the DIFC. The Centre’s robust legal and regulatory framework remains the most sophisticated and business-friendly Common Law jurisdiction in the region, aligned with international best practice. DIFC continues to support the development of the financial services sector and foster the UAE’s economic growth by encouraging the development of the domestic funds market. In May 2019, the DIFC’s independent regulator, the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), announced the a new regime to facilitate the passporting of funds, in collaboration with the UAE’s other financial regulators. The UAE passporting regime is a regulatory mechanism for the promotion and supervision of investment funds that encourages foreign licensed firms in financial free zones based in other countries to enter the local market. With the aim of ensuring businesses and investors can operate across the region with confidence, the DIFC also unveiled the new Insolvency Law in June 2019, enacted by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The new law facilitates a more efficient and effective bankruptcy restructuring regime for stakeholders operating in the DIFC. In addition, the DIFC has continued to create an attractive environment for the 24,000 strong workforce based in the Centre to thrive, whilst protecting and balancing the needs and interests of both employers and employees. To support its vision, the DIFC unveiled its new Employment Law in June 2019 to address key issues such as paternity leave, sick pay, end-of-service settlements and more.
of prospective business from the aviation financing sector, as well as generating substantial interest from family offices looking to utilise these structures in their succession planning. Creating a Vibrant Retail & Lifestyle Experience Today, 91 percent of DIFC’s prime retail space is occupied by 432 leading lifestyle, art, fashion and food & beverage brands, an offering that will be significantly boosted once Gate Avenue is fully open. Upon officially opening its doors to the public, the new development will provide seamless connectivity to the Centre’s comprehensive lifestyle offering, from The Gate building through to Central Park Towers. The new retail experience will feature over 100 days of unique arts, culture and wellness activations, making DIFC the destination where business meets lifestyle. During the first half of 2019, Hilton Hotels & Resorts announced the opening of Waldorf Astoria, Dubai International Financial Centre. The 275-key hotel occupies the 18th to 55th floors of the Burj Daman complex, including 46 suites and 28 residential suites offering unobstructed views of the Downtown Dubai skyline. Combined with the two other world-class hotels based in the Centre, Four Seasons and the Ritz-Carlton DIFC, this brings the total number of hotel rooms available to those visiting the DIFC to 722. In addition, the Centre welcomed a number of new culinary concepts to the DIFC’s gourmet scene including ‘Marea’, the New York fine dining experience led by multiMichelin starred chef, Michael White as well as Grecian inspired ‘Avli by Tasha’. In March 2019, it was announced that renowned chef Nusret Gökçe is set to launch casual dining concept ‘Saltbae’ at the Centre this year. DIFC is also home to one of the UAE’s largest collections of public art with sculptures from internationally renowned artists including Manolo Valdés and is the foundation for initiatives such as the One Mile Gallery in partnership with Brand Dubai which showcases the best of local, regional and international design and promotes art, innovation and entrepreneurship.
As part of the Centre’s blueprint for the transformation of the financial centre and in line with global retirement savings trends the DIFC launched the Employee Workplace Savings (DEWS) scheme, which will see the evolution of end-of-service benefits from a defined benefit scheme to a defined contribution scheme, while offering a voluntary savings component for employees.
The Centre also welcomed its seventh elite art gallery, Sconci Gallery to the DIFC in the first half of 2019. Established in Rome during 1977, the gallery has collaborated with leading artists and international auction houses to showcase collections from masters of modern and contemporary art, as well as emerging artists.
The Centre also unveiled a new unified, simplified and more expansive Prescribed Companies regime that makes structuring and financing in the DIFC faster, flexible and more cost-effective. The new regime encompasses structures previously offered by the Centre, including Intermediate Special Purpose Vehicles (ISPVs) and Special Purpose Companies (SPCs). This has contributed significantly to a robust pipeline
During March 2019, the DIFC hosted the most successful edition of the hugely popular Art Nights in the last five years. The event, which marks the beginning of Dubai’s coveted art season, Art Dubai 2019, saw participation from international and local art galleries and artists, as well as installations accompanied by electric musical performances and light installations from interdisciplinary artists.
18 MEA MARKETS / 2019 GCC Enterprise Awards
Visit to Subscribe: www.mea-markets.com