43 minute read
Sajwani: Now is a very good time for SMEs ot play a leadership role in the further development of mobile health solutions in the
Ali Sajwani - General Manager Operations - DAMAC Properties
ALI SAJWANI ... SUPER APPS
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PROVIDES A COMPREHENSIVE DIGITAL PLATFORM FOR HEALTHCARE SERVICES
According to Dubai Health Authority, 30 percent of the UAE’s population is either diabetic or pre-diabetic and 27.8 percent of the adult population is overweight. Healthcare super apps have the potential to empower patients to make better lifestyle choices and offer better access to healthcare professionals tapping into a global mHealth market expected to reach US$166.2 billion by 2028
According to Emirati entrepreneur and general manager of operations for global real estate development company DAMAC Properties, Ali Sajwani, the COVID-19 pandemic is driving demand for healthcare ‘super apps’ in the UAE. Sajwani, who has led the digital transformation within DAMAC, is calling for entrepreneurs and SMEs throughout the UAE to channel their creativity and innovation into accelerating the development of a healthcare super app to enhance the wellbeing and health of the nation.
Super apps offer online messaging, social media, marketplaces, and other services under one umbrella. In emerging markets, super apps such as China’s WeChat and India’s Paytm and PhonePe are already transforming the services ecosystem. WeChat, for example, is one of the leading social networks, with 1.25 billion monthly active users worldwide in Q2 2021, according to Statista.
In healthcare, although super apps are still in their embryonic stage, medical devices are getting smarter by the day with iWatch, Fitbit, BLE heart rate monitors, pulse rate monitors, diabetes checkers and many more devices providing a detailed insight when paired with mobile apps. Medical health records are also easier to manage online and accessible to the doctors as well as the patients, up and down the country.
Sajwani: Now is a very good time for SMEs and entrepreneurs to play a leadership role in the further development of mobile health solutions in the UAE
The global mobile health services market is expected to reach $166.2 billion by 2028
Increasing healthcare costs and the need for on-demand solutions point to the need to develop superior healthcare applications
According to Dubai Health Authority (DHA), 30% of the Emirate’s population is either diabetic or pre-diabetic and 27.8% of the adult population is overweight. Healthcare super apps have the potential to empower patients to make better lifestyle choices and offer better access to healthcare professionals.
IMPROVING HEALTH AND WELLNESS:
By encouraging daily self-management and providing routine follow up care, super apps can offer a holistic approach to health and wellness where healthy behaviour is incentivised, and communication with practitioners is streamlined.
“Super apps have the potential to revolutionise the healthcare sector by adopting an approach that offers convenience and simplicity to patients. There is an increasing need for on-demand healthcare solutions that goes hand in hand with the increasing awareness and health consciousness among consumers,” said Sajwani.
“As super apps are slowly finding their way into Western markets, the time is right for the UAE to engage its entrepreneurial spirit and accelerate the development of one single mobile app solution.
One that provides a high level of convenience for patients, allows for data sharing across platforms and service providers, and eliminates the complex processes and procedures involved in managing healthcare,” he added.
UAE SUPPORT FOR INNOVATION:
The UAE ranked first regionally in the 2020 Global Innovation Index and has taken several
steps to promote and encourage innovation, in line with the ‘United in Knowledge’ pillar under the country’s Vision 2021. For example, the recently announced Emirates Development Bank Strategy provides AED 30 million in support for the UAE’s startups and SMEs, which form the backbone of the country’s business ecosystem.
Incubators such as the Dubai Future Accelerators initiative were created specifically to enable rapid deployment of transformative technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, biotechnology and 3D printing.
Meanwhile, Smart Dubai, which plays host to many emerging technology-backed applications is working with the Dubai Health Authority on a smart inventory app that allows users to process warehousing transactions and track the supply chain for medicines from anywhere using a smartphone, tablet, or any portable device.
PROMISING OPPORTUNITIES:
Having inherited an entrepreneurial mindset from his father Hussain Sajwani, the founder of DAMAC Properties, Ali Sajwani is also the founding board member of Emirates Angels Investors Association.
This non-profit organisation aims to positively contribute to the early-stage investment ecosystem, through its investor network and works side by side with start-ups and the relevant authorities, to create the best investment environment possible.
“With the global mHealth market size estimated to reach US$166.2 billion by 2028 (*), it is too big to ignore. Therefore, start-ups and entrepreneurs in the UAE should consider channelling their energies into playing a more prominent role in this market, by becoming invaluable players in the super app space,” Sajwani concluded.
Ali Hussain Sajwani oversees day-today operations at global property developer, DAMAC Properties.
He has set up several private business ventures, including a luxury transport business, which he exited in 2020
Ali went on to establish a specialised facilities management company with 1,500 staff members that provides services to the high-end hospitality segment
Ali also sits on the board of the family office for investments, with a focus on US equities and venture capital funds.
He is also the founding board member of Emirates Angels Investors Association, a non-profit aiming to positively contribute to the early-stage investment ecosystem through their investor network.
B
BUSINESS SECTOR POSITIVE PERFORMANCE IN RAKDURING THE PANDEMIC
PREPARED BY RAK CENTER FOR STATISTICS AND STUDIES
The coronavirus, COVID-19, pandemic has completely paralyzed the economies globally and regionally upon announcing it in March 2020, although it was announced in China in December 2019. The pandemic has internationally disrupted supply and production chains and has restricted the flow of goods, services and capital, causing enormous losses to international trade and tourism, aviation, oil and other businesses. The performance of global and regional economies has also declined, resulting in different negative growth rates, most notably the significant decline in oil prices to (- 36%) and the market capitalization of stock markets in the world, the Middle East, and North Africa. The UAE economy has been affected as well. However, some economic activities and sectors, including the business sector, have outperformed in 2020, compared to 2019, in Ras Al Khaimah and the other emirates. Knowing that there were strict sterilization and closure measures, especially during the second and the third quarters. In this report, we will try to monitor the most salient changes occurred in some of business activities, based on the available records for the period 2016-2020:
A) BUSINESS MOVEMENT IN TERM OF COMMERCIAL LICENSES: 1. Licenses issued by the Department of Economic Development (RAK DED):
The new Al-Ghad licenses issued by RAK DED increased in 2020 to 224 licenses, compared to 160 licenses in 2019, an increase of 40%. The number of licenses in 2020 are considered the largest during the years 2016-2020, distributed between 73% for commercial licenses, 26% for professional licenses, and 1% for industrial licenses. See Table (1-1). • The number of new commercial licenses issued in 2020 increased by 4% over the average of licenses for the years 2016-2018, although it decreased by (15%) compared to 2019. As for the industrial licenses, 16 licenses were issued, compared to 18 in the previous year, despite the pandemic measures. Commercial licenses came first with a percentage of 56%, followed by professional licenses (43%), and finally industrial licenses (1%). See Table (1-2).
Table1-1: New Al Ghad licenses issued by the Department of Economic Development by type 2016-2020
Year / Type of License 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020
Commercial 59 40 84 103 162
Professional 41 27 17 54 59
Industrial 0 0 0 3 3
Total
100 67 101 160 224
Source: Department of Economic Development
Table2 -1: New licenses issued by the Department of Economic Development by type 2020-2016
ةنسلا 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020
Commercial 720 583 729 831 703
Professional 983 772 761 951 539
Industrial 35 40 36 18 16
Total 1,738 1,395 1,526 1,800 1,258
Source: Department of Economic Development
Economic activities and sectors in Ras Al Khaimah, as in other emirates, including the business sector, in 2020, outperformed compared to the year before
2. Business movement in Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zones (RAKEZ):
Number of new licenses issued by the Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zones Authority (RAKEZ) reached 3,053 licenses in 2020 increasing by 26% compared to 2018, 75% compared to 2017 and 135% compared to 2016. The number decreased by 12% compared to 2019 following the pandemic that impeded the movement of economic activities during the second quarter of 2020, in addition to the severity of protection and closure measures. The 2020 licenses were distributed between 47% of commercial licenses, 36% of service licenses, and 11% of media licenses. The remaining 6% was distributed among free permits and education, industry, individual, professional and business investment licenses. See Table (2-1).
3053
3967
Million dollars Total real estate transactions in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah
Table 2-1: New licenses issued by the Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) by type2020-2016
Year 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020
Industrial 28 42 34 33 31
Commercial 549 663 884 1,344 1,119
E-commerce 0 14 67 105 206
General 132 262 296 307 110
trading
Individual / Professional 0 33 77 51 16
Media 4 8 94 256 330
Service 582 703 855 1,199 1,104 Educational 2 14 20 27 49
Tourism 0 0 0 - 0
Professional 1 4 3 7 1
Freelancer
permit Business
invests 0 0 85 136 80
- - - 9 7
Total 1,298 1,743 2,415 3,474 3,053
1. The total real estate transactions in Ras Al Khaimah amounted to AED 3,967 million in 2020, an increase of 24% compared to 2019. The value of real estate sales was AED 1,001 million in that year, a decrease of (15%) compared to the previous year. See Table (3-3). 2. As for the mortgage in 2020, it was significantly higher, 186% compared to 2019 and 58% compared to 2018. While the market value of assignment decreased by (56%) compared to 2019 and by (21%) compared to 2018. See the table (3-3). 3. Real estate sales in 2020 focused on built residential lands, vacant residential plots, apartments and freehold villas, with 76% of the total sales. In contrast, sales in 2019 focused on built residential lands, freehold apartments, vacant residential lands, and freehold villas, with a rate of 74%. In general, built residential land sales took the largest portion of sales, at an annual rate of AED 342 million during the period 2016-2020, followed by freehold apartments at a rate of AED 288 million. See Table (3-4).
Table 3-3: Real Estate Transactions 2016-2020 (In thousands Dhs)
Year 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020
Real estate sales value 1,687,924 1,859,062 1,751,218 1,171,700 1,001,412
Mortgage’s value 1,115,604 2,536,671 1,617,800 892,701 2,551,291
Waiver market value 2,723,055 666,865 526,394 952,136 414,699
Total real 5,526,583 5,062,598 3,895,413 3,016,536 3,967,402
Source: Ras Al Khaimah Municipality
Table 3-4: Sales value of land villa and free hold apartment 2016- 2020 In thousands Dhs
Year 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020
Free residential land 241,041 226,458 160,616 182,006 187,082
Built residential land 340,146 365,926 356,301 330,836 316,123
Commercial residential land 334,607 312,573 125,972 75,549 49,040
Commercial land 28,964 41,800 39,451 25,835 12,902
Agricultural land 62,409 99,840 91,726 73,722 79,752
Freehold villas 220,896 332,423 220,873 123,479 120,144
Freehold
apartments 174,506 303,307 596,813 230,435 133,403
Popular houses 16,190 15,810 10,943 8,703 6,660
Tourist lands 206,105 77,369 88,151 - 33,183
Industrial lands 23,672 5,850 3,400 80,400 4,000
Investment lands 39,387 77,705 56,973 38,466 55,385
Government lands - - - - 739,
Commercial unit - - - 2,269
Others - - - -
Total 1,687,923 1,859,061 1,751,219 1,171,700 1,001,412
C) CERTIFICATES OF ORIGIN ISSUED BY RAK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY:
1. The number of certificates of origin issued by Ras Al Khaimah Chamber of Commerce and Industry amounted to 20,114 certificates in 2020, a decrease of (18%) compared to 2019. The total value of certificates decreased by 25%. This drop is natural due to the pandemic conditions mentioned previously, and it differs from the decline that occurred over the previous years. This calls for taking stimulus measures that would restore the activity to what it was before 2017. See Table (4-1). 2. The average value of a single certificate decreased to AED 244 in 2020, compared to AED 269 in 2019, at a rate of (9%).
Table 4-1: Value of exported goods and the number of certificates of origin by RAK Chamber
Year 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 Certificates of origin number 33,910 30,351 26,708 24,406 20,114 Value of exported goods 9,042 7,118 7,903 6,577 4,901 Source: RAK Chamber
D) TELECOMMUNICATION:
1. Number of fixed phone lines for the two telecom companies Etisalat and Du increased between 2020 and 2019 by 0.9%, while the number of effective mobile subscriptions decreased between the two years by (1%), see Table (1-5). 2. The internet broadband subscriptions of the two companies included the standalone internet broadband (internet only), the double play- internet broadband (internet + fixed line) and triple play- internet broadband (internet + fixed line + TV), all increased by 3% in 2020 compared to 2019. See Table (1-5).
Table 5-1: Total subscribers in telecommunication services in Ras Al Khaimah *
Services 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020
Total number of fixed telephone (**) subscriptions 55,410 55,757 60,394 59,598 60,142
Total number of active mobile subscriptions 310,583 578,815 599,204 634,486 628,179
Total number of standalone internet
broadband subscriptions
Total number of double play- internet broadband subscriptions
Total number of triple play- internet broadband subscriptions 11,126 20,062 15,796 13,609 12,318
8,949 28,057 34,867 34,695 33,784
22,696 30,355 34,195 35,765 40,219
Total internet broadband
subscriptions 42,771 78,474 84,858 84,069 86,321
Source: Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (Data on UAE Level) * Aggregated data of both Etisalat & Du ** Total fixed telephony lines include public payphone units
CONCLUSION:
The business sector, thanks to the cooperation and support of government authorities in Ras Al Khaimah and the awareness of investors, was able to exploit the conditions of the Coronavirus pandemic and turn them into elements of force. That jump-started the economy towards a rapid return and further increases in most of the activities, compared to 2019. Knowing that there was almost complete paralysis in the business movement in the second quarter of 2020, as shown below: 1. Investors headed toward issuing AL-Ghad licenses from RAK DED. The new issued licenses of which increased by 47% in 2020 compared to 2019. The number of 2020 licenses is the largest since 2016. The number of new business licenses issued by type increased by 4% in 2020 compared to the average for the years 2016-2018, despite the decrease in their number in the year of the pandemic by 15% compared to 2019. The number of new licenses issued by (RAKEZ) also increased in 2020 to 3,050 licenses, which is the largest number during the period 2016-2018 as well, despite its decrease by 12% compared to 2019. 2. The total real estate transactions in Ras Al Khaimah increased to AED 3,967 million in 2020 compared to AED 3,017 million in 2019, an increase of 24%. The share of real estate sales of which is AED 1,001 million, a drop of 15% compared to the previous year. 3. Number of fixed phone lines for the two telecom companies Etisalat and Du increased between 2020 and 2019 by 0.9%. The internet broadband subscriptions of the two companies included the standalone internet broadband (internet only), the double play- internet broadband (internet + fixed line) and triple play- internet broadband (internet + fixed line + TV), all increased by 3% in 2020 compared to 2019. 4. Due to the closure of borders, number of certificates of origin issued by Ras Al Khaimah Chamber of Commerce and Industry amounted to 20,114 certificates in 2020, a decrease of (18%) compared to 2019
OVER THE TOP
Entrepreneurs DEVELOPMENT SELF-GROWTH
NOURA AL KHATIRI
THE VALLEY” IS AN INNOVATIVE PLATFORM THAT PROVIDES OWNERS OF SMALL AND HOME BUSINESSES THE OPPORTUNITY TO REDUCE THE COSTS OF ESTABLISHING AND OPERATING PROJECTS
NOURA AL KHATIRI... The Valley...Where ambitious business meets promising opportunities
A pioneering idea flashed, efforts of young women paid, and so the Valley platform was launched in Ras Al Khaimah.
Interviewd by: Maryam Haji Mohamed
The Valley supports youth enterprises by giving the opportunity for budding entrepreneurs to make their businesses come on stream and reduce the burden of project establishment costs.
With attractive decorations, elegant designs and distinguished staff, the Valley showroom opens its doors for entrepreneurs looking for shop windows to display their products, taking advantage of the distinguished location in the commercial front of Ras Al Khaimah Emirates Sports and Cultural Club.
“The Valley platform is the first and largest of its kind in Ras Al Khaimah, through which we work to create a pioneering community where entrepreneurs gather to exchange experiences and knowledge. The Valley is an innovative platform for ambitious businesses to meet with promising opportunities. We provide owners of small and home enterprises with the chance to lessen the establishment costs, including shops or commercial facilities, recruiting labor, creating marketing plans, providing accounting systems...etc. We also offer a special place to display their products with sales and marketing services that help developing their business. Today, ‘The Valley’ embraces more than 75 small and medium enterprises of different commercial activities (selling perfumes, clothes and cosmetics). Our platform, therefore, provides shoppers with a distinctive experience of wide options under one roof,” Noura Al Khatiri, founder of the Valley, said. The pioneering project has been a marked success. Thus, Noura Al Khatri and her work team seek to expand in all the UAE to provide more exhibition spaces for youth projects. In parallel, they also seek to start social activities, temporary exhibitions and external events to reach
The Valley hosts more than 75 the largest number of customsmall and medium enterprises to ers, including exhibitors and display their various products, shoppers. including perfumes, clothing, cosmetics and other products Noura confirms that the broad prospects opened up by the UAE government for all creative ideas were a direct reason for starting up ‘the Valley’, and she calls on all young people not to hesitate to launch their own enterprises. She said, “Today, we are in a country that welcomes entrepreneurs and provides them with all kinds of moral, logistical and material support. My message to everyone is to take their ideas to a broader level and start implementing them with all their details. We are in an ambitious country that welcomes ambitious ideas”
FATIMA ALSUWAIDI New Director of Abu Dhabi and the Northern Emirates Transguard Group
Leading business solutions provider Transguard Group is pleased to announce that it is further strengthening its presence in Abu Dhabi and the Northern Emirates by adding Fatima Alsuwaidi to its senior management team as Director of Abu Dhabi and the Northern Emirates. A UAE national, Fatima will be responsible for continuing to grow Transguard’s relationships in these emirates, as well as identifying and developing new business prospects.
With a background as a diplomat, a small business owner, a legal advisor for the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department and a head of department for Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank, Fatima brings a wealth of experience to her new role. MATTHEW TRIBE Managing Director for Atkins planning, design, and engineering business in the Middle East
Atkins, a member of the SNC-Lavalin Group, is pleased to announce the appointment of Matthew Tribe as Managing Director for its planning, design, and engineering business in the Middle East, effective November 2021. Matthew also leads the company’s global technical network in master planning, urbanization & cities, driving a virtual network of professionals to deliver value to its clients around the world.
ADEEB AHAMED Advisor of Al Maryah Community Bank
UAE’s first licensed digital-only bank – Al Maryah Community Bank LLC, has appointed Mr. Adeeb Ahamed, Managing Director of Abu Dhabi based LuLu Financial Holdings to the position of Advisor to the Board Members.
Mr. Adeeb, whose investments in financial services and digital payments span 11 countries in the GCC, Indian sub-continent and APAC regions, is an established and recognized industry name, known for his far-reaching contributions to the development of the global payments ecosystem. A member of the prestigious World Economic Forum’s South Asian Regional Strategy Group, Adeeb additionally sits at the helm of companies in retail, F&B and luxury hospitality.
4 BOOKS FOR A BETTER LIFE
THE 7 HABITS OF HIGHLY EFFECTIVE PEOPLE
By: Stephen R. Covey
Stephen R. Covey’s book, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, continues to be a bestseller for the simple reason that it ignores trends and pop psychology and focuses on timeless principles of fairness, integrity, honesty, and human dignity. One of the most compelling books ever written, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, has empowered and inspired readers for over 25 years. It’s also played a part in the transformation of millions of lives across all age groups and professions. No matter how competent a person is, they will not have sustained and lasting success unless they can effectively lead themselves, influence, engage and collaborate with others and continuously improve and renew their capabilities. These elements are at the heart of personal, team, and organizational effectiveness.
DESIGNING YOUR LIFE
By: Bill Burnett, Dave Evans
Designers create worlds and solve problems using design thinking. Look around your office or home–at the tablet or smartphone you may be holding or the chair you are sitting in. Everything in our lives was designed by someone. And every design starts with a problem that a designer or team of designers seeks to solve. In this book, Bill Burnett and Dave Evans show us how design thinking can help us create a life that is both meaningful and fulfilling, regardless of who or where we are, what we do or have done for a living, or how young or old we are. The same design thinking responsible for amazing technology, products, and spaces can be used to design and build your career and your life, a life of fulfillment and joy. ESSENTIALISM
By: Greg McKeown
Being an Essentialist is about a disciplined way of thinking. It means challenging the core assumption of ‘We can have it all’ and ‘I have to do everything’ and replacing it with the pursuit of ‘the right thing, in the right way, at the right time’. By applying a more selective criteria for what is essential, the pursuit of less allows us to regain control of our own choices so we can channel our time, energy and effort into making the highest possible contribution toward the goals and activities that matter. Using the experience and insight of working with the leaders of the most innovative companies and organisations in the world, McKeown shows you how to put Essentialism into practice in your own life, so you too can achieve something great. HOW DOCTORS THINK
By: Jerome Groopman
This book is the first to describe in detail the warning signs of erroneous medical thinking and reveal how new technologies may actually hinder accurate diagnoses. How Doctors Think offers direct, intelligent questions patients can ask their doctors to help them get back on track. Groopman draws on a wealth of research, extensive interviews with some of the country’s best doctors, and his own experiences as a doctor and as a patient. He has learned many of the lessons in this book the hard way, from his own mistakes and from errors his doctors made in treating his own debilitating medical problems. How Doctors Think reveals a profound new view of twenty-first-century medical practice, giving doctors and patients the vital information they need to make better judgments together.
W
WORLD LEADERS PRAISE EXPO 2020 DUBAI AS A BEACON OF HOPE
In the three months since opening its doors to the world in October 2021, Expo 2020 Dubai has been attended and praised by leaders and dignitaries from across the planet.
A key moment will see Expo host the first Global Goals Week to be held outside of the United Nations in New York from January 15 to 22 – bringing to life the Sustainable Development Goals, as the push continues apace to create a better, fairer and more just world by 2030.
It will be the seventh Theme Week held under Expo’s flagship Programme for People and Planet, helping to drive positive action and crucial collaboration between nations from across the world, and embodying Expo’s theme and purpose of ‘Connecting Minds, Creating the Future’.
Amina Mohammed, Deputy Secretary-General, United Nations, said: “At a time when there is a dark cloud, you have presented a real vision for what we can do to recover better, for how the world can look beyond the UAE – beyond your neighbourhood – into this global community. You’ve given hope and a sense of dignity to everyone that has participated in this Expo.”
Wavel Ramkalawan, President of the Republic of Seychelles, said: “[Expo] is a beacon for global optimism, for responsible and sustainable world development, for nations standing together against adversity, for personal and collaborative creativity, for the unique beauty of human harmony and – most importantly – friendship, communication and recognition that – when it comes to determining a healthy future for planet Earth – we are all in this together, from the largest nation to the smallest.”
His Majesty King Carl XVI Gustaf, King of Sweden, said: “Expo gives us the possibility to develop innovative solutions not just for the good of our own country but for the global market and global good. It is a true opportunity for co-creation, for innovation. I’m confident that the partnership created here at the Expo will strengthen cooperation between Sweden and the UAE and the countries of the world, and that we will be able to generate new ideas and solutions together.”
His Majesty King Letsie III, King of Lesotho, said: “Expo 2020 Dubai will succeed in its noble mission of ‘Connecting Minds’, and as a result of that achievement, an incubator
THE LARGEST INTERNATIONAL EVENT, “EXPO 2020”, ATTRACTED LEADERS AND EMINENT PERSONALITIES FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD, AND THEIR PRAISE EMERGED AS A “BEACON OF HOPE, RESILIENCE AND INTERNATIONAL SOLIDARIT
will be created that will hatch sustainable solutions to our common problems – solutions that will hopefully create a more prosperous and peaceful future for us all.”
Hosting the most significant global gathering – during a pandemic – has not been easy, but world leaders praised Expo for welcoming the world in a safe and responsible manner.
Emmanuel Macron, President of France, said: “We’re very happy to be here, and I want to congratulate the UAE for this Expo, because at a time when we see COVID-19, and so many threats and issues, organising the Expo here and making it a success – because it’s already a success – is good for your country. It’s good for everybody.”
Dato Lim Jock Hoi, Secretary-General, ASEAN, said: “I congratulate the United Arab Emirates for successfully convening the global community together here in Dubai. By bringing the world together during this most challenging of times, the UAE demonstrates its leadership as a driving force for global cooperation and unity which is true to the theme of the World Expo 2020 of ‘Connecting Minds, Creating the Future’.”
Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin, President of the Swiss Confederation, said: “Pulling off the organisation of such a major event would be a major feat at any moment in time. But doing so in a period of uncertainty, such as the last 18 months, is an incredible accomplishment.”
Cooperation, resilience and solidarity will continue be of paramount importance in the second half of Expo, which runs until March 31, with visitors invited to join the making of a new world in a celebration of human creativity, innovation, progress and culture.
Macky Sall, President of Senegal, said: “Our world, plunged into a deep economic gloom, certainly needs this ray of light to bring back some colour and help rebuild hope for a better future. In this sense, the universal Expo is both a showcase for nations and a factor for peace and dialogue between cultures and civilisations. This is what Expo 2020 is all about”
Imad Eddine Oubiri
Business Development Executive 2/2
BUSINESS TRANSFORMATION AN INEVITABLE CHOICE!
In our article on the previous RAK Business Issue, we raised the question of the necessity and scope of the transformation, and discussed with our dear readers its scope, and we considered in this issue to provide answers to most important questions raised, based on data dictated to us by the fait accompli.
WHAT’S CHANGED?
We have stated that in the face of the pandemic that has afflicted the world over the past three years, it has become extremely difficult to plan for the future even in the short term in the light of uncertainty, blurred vision and constant and sudden change that is difficult to predict. With all this, it has been shown that we must live with a reality that requires flexibility and speed in decision-making, requiring new institutional and individual skills that are not necessarily based on purely rational analysis and the use of traditional tools in planning, because of the instability of data that enables a decision based on a firm and clearly defined vision; but on intuition, speculation and the development of immediate alternative scenarios and plans, so as we are ready to counteract the course in the event of any emergency change. The most important advent that has emerged and that is imposed by the new reality is the inability to enforce “unilateral” resolutions at all levels, which may pose a significant threat due to the potential lack of objectivity and full knowledge of all present and future issues. Let us corroborate and expand with examples from today’s reality so that we can clarify in more detail and accuracy the subject matter. What are the highest priorities that have imposed themselves, and what is the inevitable?
SCIENCE AND SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH...
This pandemic has ravaged the world’s economy, took millions of lives, disrupted the interests of States, businesses and individuals, and all mankind found no refuge in escaping this pandemic in the quest for a way out, but through knowledge, scientists and researchers who have done everything they can to save what can be saved in “lives and property”. Science and scientific research are once again at the forefront of the list of priorities for the world’s economy, with scientific research making unprecedented progress in terms of number of publications, speed of publication, comprehensiveness and participation of research. Ironically, businesses, both in the government and private sectors - despite the large gap between academia and the business world in the years leading up to the pandemic -- have undergone a radical shift in their approach by relying on science and knowledge to ensure their continuity through lessons and skills
learned in crisis management and alternative planning through scientific research output and “briefings”, whether it is speculation or proven scientific facts. This has restored science and scientific research to its true significance in the global economy. In the midst of a frantic race for business to survive, it is self-evident that survival is no longer for the strongest, the largest, the richest or the most widespread, but for the more knowledgeable, the more flexible and the fastest to adapt to emerging variables. If we are to be more precise here, it is impossible to work independently of science and scientific research, not only in planning or predicting the future, but in shaping up our future and business core efficiently, in terms of performance, continuity, as well as sustainability.
INDEPENDENCE, SUBSIDY, OR COOPERATION?
One of the most important advents is issue of the extent to which entities are independent and self-reliant, be they economies, states, businesses or individuals. The pandemic irradicated the myth of “absolute ego”, the illusion of absolute self-reliance and desperateness to dispense with the other. On the other hand, it has established the principle that there is no “one exists without the other”! The world has witnessed a strange convergence of all the opposing poles and unprecedented alliances, whether at the geopolitical-economic level, at the humanitarian level, and particularly at the business level. However, a radical change in the pattern of relations between the parties in the scope and limits of responsibilities, thus leading to a new global economic order that has imposed itself with force majeure. Governments and States can no longer engage in development and sustainability on their own, and it is necessary for all parties to consult and cooperate in order to revive dilapidated economies and prevent crises threats and counter dangers. Internally, governments can no longer drive economic development on their own without significant private sector contribution and shared responsibility in driving the economy. At the business level, rules of the game have radically changed, as it is necessary for all businesses and companies to move beyond with a new system of progress that will enable them to adapt quickly to developments and changes, with a focus on learning, consultation, cooperation and creating new opportunities through the establishment of renewed partnerships at all levels, whether with the public or private sector; and not relying on recovery plans that will not be successful without contribution, cooperation and participation.
LIVING WITH THE FAIT ACCOMPLI
Whether at the beginning of the crisis or recently, many nations have adapted the de facto approach and option of coexistence with emergencies and constant abrupt developments and changes. The bitter and inevitable experience of “total lock-down” has exhausted economies, caused countless of job losses and cut off the lifeline. An expensive tax paid by economies, governments, businesses and individuals alike. The decision to live with the fait accompli is not as easy as it seems at first glance, as it is not acquiescence or subservience, but a courageous decision that calls for full responsibility on the part of individuals and groups, concerted efforts, cooperation and participation, each according to its scope and limits of responsibility. To be more positive about the future, it may be worth saying here that “crisis brings endurance “, and to be more equitable to the pandemic, despite its ravages, it has brought seeds for change for the better.
ANY RECOMMENDATIONS?
- Creating new business opportunities through public-private partnership projects. - Bridging the gap between higher education, scientific research and business by supporting the business sector, particularly the industrial sector, with scientific research (applied sciences), and seeking to increase efficiency and productivity by improving production lines, rationalizing energy consumption and using alternative energy. - Maintaining resources and implementing sustainability programmes at all levels. We are pleased to receive your suggestions, ideas and questions about this topic through Ras Al Khaimah Business Magazine on email ngmedia.ae@gmail.com
DESPITE THE MASSIVE DAMAGE CAUSED TO THE WHOLE WORLD BY THE CORONA PANDEMIC, IT HAS BROUGHT SEEDS FOR CHANGE FOR THE BETTER.
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TWO GUINNESS RECORDS AT RAK NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATIONS
Welcoming hundreds of thousands of spectators from around the world, the Ras Al Khaimah New Year’s Eve Celebrations (#RAKNYE 2022) dazzled all with a never-before-seen fireworks display that smashed two GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ titles.
Rising majestically from the Arabian Gulf, the fireworks display featured innovative pyrotechnic performances spanning an area of over 4.7 kilometres. The 12-minute spectacle was specially choreographed to reflect the joy of reunion with six themes set to epic orchestral music. A spokesperson of the organising committee said: “#RAKNYE2022 is our tribute to the leadership and people of Ras Al Khaimah and the UAE not only as we celebrate the 50th Anniversary of our nation but also in preparation for the Next 50 Years. With this event, we once again underlined the reputation of Ras Al Khaimah as the leading tourism destination welcoming visitors from across the world.” Setting the first GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for the ‘Highest Altitude Multirotor/Drone Fireworks Display’ was the tower of fireworks 1,055.8 metres high, taller than any skyscraper in the world. The second GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title was for the ‘Most Remote Operated Multirotors/Drones Launching Fireworks Simultaneously’, when more than 452 drones launched fireworks simultaneously to create the ‘Happy New Year’ visual in the sky. RAKNYE 2020 fireworks display was conducted in a six-act sequence starting with the countdown just before midnight setting the stage for an ephemeral theatre of wonder. Ushering in the New Year with a spectacular tower of lights at a height of 1,055.8 meters (over 1 km) taller than any building in the world
Radisson Hotel Group opened the Middle East’s first Radisson Resort, Radisson Resort Ras Al Khaimah Marjan Island - a perfect beach getaway just a 45-minute drive from Dubai, offering direct beach access and panoramic views of the surrounding waters. Tim Cordon, Area Senior Vice President, Middle East, and Africa at Radisson Hotel Group, says, “We are honored to end the year with the opening of the Middle East’s first Radisson Resort right here in the UAE, and our first hotel in Ras Al Khaimah. The opening of Radisson Resort Ras Al Khaimah Marjan Island means that we are now present in six of seven Emirates and the new resortperfectly complements our existing hotel portfolio of 15 hotels across the UAE. Ras Al Khaimah Tourism has been doing a fantastic job promoting the destination and we look forward to contributing to the destination’s attraction with our new resort.” Radisson Resort Ras Al Khaimah Marjan Island’s leisure facilities include a private beach, two swimming pools, a designated kids pool, an indoor fitness center with a fully-equipped gym, and a spa, as well as two meeting rooms and a ballroom perfect for larger corporate events and private events like weddings. The resort also offers a diverse selection of dining options across its six restaurants; RBG Restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner serving a selection of international dishes. The beach-facing sports bar, RBG Bar, is the perfect place to relax with its retro-inspired décor, and serves signature comfort foods. For fresh seafood dishes, a raw bar, and live-fire barbecue, The Seafood Shack is the perfect place to enjoy sunset drinks on the terrace. La Med serves up a wide array of dishes from around the Mediterranean on its sunlit terrace. David Allan, Cluster General Manager of Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Waterfront, Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Canal View, and Radisson Resort Ras Al Khaimah Marjan Island, comments: “ We are excited to be launching the first Radisson Resort in the UAE. Our new Radisson Resort is designed to be a place to relax, recharge and reconnect while delivering memorable moments - the perfect choice for staycations, couples and families alike. We are looking forward to taking care of every guest with the style of friendly service for which we are renowned
THE RESORT FEATURES 388 ROOMS AND SUITES WITH SEA VIEWS OR BALCONIES TO ENJOY THE FRESH SEA AIR AND SPECTACULAR VISTAS OF THE PICTURESQUE MARJAN ISLAND
EMIRATES
THE MOST BEAUTIFUL WINTER IN THE WORLD
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of the State The Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai launched the campaign (the most beautiful winter in the world) for the second year, with the cooperation of the federal authorities and local tourism departments as one team, to consolidate the UAE as a single tourist destination, as confirmed by the fifty principles.
INTEGRATED TOURISM EXPERIENCES FROM EVERY EMIRATE
This is what contributes to achieving it by shedding light on the most prominent attractions in the seven emirates of the country and enhancing awareness and knowledge of them, making them an attractive tourist destination for visitors both internally and in the countries of the world at large. The distinguished character, while presenting a more comprehensive, clearer and more complete picture of the most important natural, heritage and historical landmarks and the modern and modern urban edifices for which it is famous, and highlighting the recreational activities and the cultural and community activities that it offers. This supports the crystallization of the local tourist identities for each emirate, and achieves their integration in the formulation of the unified tourism identity of the country that was announced in December 2020.
Tourism has a fundamental and growing role in the economy and society of the UAE, where more than 200 nationalities from different parts of the world live. Most of them came initially as a visit to the country. When they saw a society of safety, tolerance and respect for pluralism, they chose to build their dreams in it and live, work and live in it.
SAFETY IN THE UAE HAS A GLOBAL REPUTATION
UAE ranked first in the world in terms of people feeling safe roaming the streets at night alone, according to the “Law and Global Order 2021” index issued by the global research institute Gallup, which monitors levels of public order and law in various countries of the world, as well as the levels of feelings of residents. In every country, it is safe, and it ranked second in the ranking of the safest countries in the world in the same index.
The UAE also ranked second globally in the “The Safest Countries in the World in 2021” index, which was published by the British magazine “Global Finance” in July 2021.
Thus, the safe and peaceful environment of the Emirates is a main attraction for millions of tourists around the world who seek to live an exceptional experience in a country where the comfort and personal safety of the individual is a top priority, and it is also an essential component of the unified tourism identity of the country, and a key element in consolidating the UAE’s global reputation. TOLERANCE IN ALL ITS DESTINATIONS
Tolerance, inclusion, pluralism and coexistence are also essential components of the unified tourist identity of the state, because the tourist and visitor finds it everywhere in the seven emirates, so he always feels welcome from any cultural or ethnic background, which is what he feels wherever he goes from the far north of the country to the far south, and from east to west.This is also one of the practical translations of the concept of the UAE as a single tourist destination.
EXPERIENCES THAT CONSTITUTE A GLOBAL STANDARD
Distinguished tourism services, unprecedented experiences in all parts of the country, respect for the law, transparency and standards of customer happiness, which constitute a global model in tourism and recreational facilities in the country, are also unique components that distinguish the UAE as a single tourist destination, and make it a global center of attraction for foreign and domestic tourism as well.
INITIATIVES TO UPCOMING ANNUAL FESTIVALS
In addition to all these components affecting the enhancement of the country’s global reputation as a desired, reliable and attractive tourist destination for all, comes the institutionalization of local tourism initiatives at the level of each emirate and transforming them into anticipated annual events, turning them into festivals that internal and external tourists look forward to every year. These initiatives, in turn, contribute to Supporting the domestic product and creating sustainable opportunities for talents, competencies, entrepreneurs and emerging entrepreneurs in the sector for the next five decades. WORK AS ONE TEAM:
Among the meanings that indicate that the UAE is one tourist destination is also that everyone in it works as a team to achieve all the ingredients for success and excellence for a new development phase that includes all economic sectors, including tourism, for the next 50 years, in order to achieve the goals of the UAE Centennial 2071.
An outstanding example of the effectiveness of the cooperation of various bodies and departments concerned with tourism, culture, heritage and events at the state level is the achievement of the first version of the “The Most Beautiful Winter in the World” campaign, which succeeded in achieving direct revenues equivalent to one billion dirhams, and attracted 950,000 internal tourists, and recorded 500 million views. from around the world.
TOURISM IDENTITY IS A GLOBAL MARK
The fruits of working as a team to highlight the most beautiful of the seven emirates of the country, will not be limited to more success that is expected from the “The Most Beautiful Winter in the World” campaign in its second edition, which will continue until the end of January 2022, but will go beyond it to establish a well-established success equation for integrative tourism work between All the authorities and institutions concerned with the sector at the local and federal levels to consolidate the reputation of the UAE globally, and to establish its unified tourism identity as a distinctive distinguishing mark that tells its inspiring story to the world, and attracts tourists and visitors from the four sides of the earth to explore its hidden gems and unspoken details.
BRANDS FOR LESS GROUP MARKS SEVERAL BRAND MILESTONES IN 2021
Brands For Less (BFL) Group, one of the leading off-price and multi-brand retailers, announced that it achieved exponential growth in 2021 and marked several milestones amidst the challenges posed by the pandemic. The brand, which closely follows changing consumer behavior has also attained a consistent growth in sales and revenue, following its shift to e-commerce in the first half of the fiscal year. Toufic Kreidieh, Chief Executive Officer, BFL Group, said: “This year has been equally challenging and rewarding for us. Now, since we are nearing the end of the year, it is time to set goals for the upcoming year In the days of unprecedented crisis, we handled the situation as a team, and it was the hard work, dedication and customer loyalty that helped us to revive immediately”. AL ANSARI EXCHANGE WINS DUBAI CHAMBER’S MRM CUSTOMER EXCELLENCE AWARD
In recognition of its commitment to deliver outstanding customer experiences, Al Ansari Exchange, the UAE-based foreign exchange and worldwide money transfer company, has won the “Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum (MRM) Customer Excellence Award” in the finance category in its 1st cycle. Given by the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the niche award was presented to the company by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President, Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, and Chairman of the Expo 2020 Dubai Higher Committee at a prestigious ceremony held at Expo 2020 Dubai. Mr. Rashed A. Al Ansari, CEO of Al Ansari Exchange, received the honor on behalf of the organization. The accolade is the result of the company’s adoption of a customer-centric approach to business and move to optimize its customer-oriented practices and strategies to enhance retention and loyalty.
RAK ICC AND RAK SME SIGN MOU TO BOOST INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN RAS AL KHAIMAH
RAK International Corporate Centre (RAK ICC), a world-class corporate registry and Saud bin Saqr Establishment for Small and Medium Enterprises (RAK SME) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to provide opportunities for entrepreneurs and SMEs to create a solid and viable corporate structure for their businesses. The MOU aims to promote RAK ICC and its services to SMEs by providing them with guidance on the advantages of structuring investments through RAK ICC companies and offering a fast, easy and a cost-effective registration process with minimal requirements.
Gulf Pharmaceutical Industries PSC (Julphar), one of the largest pharmaceutical manufacturers in the Middle East and Africa, announced the signing of an exclusive license and production agreement with Quantum Genomics, a leading biopharmaceutical company specializing in the development of first-in-class cardiovascular drugs, to market and produce firibastat in the Middle East, all African countries, CIS and Turkey. The new partnership comes in line with Julphar vision to form robust strategic alliances on the global level, that will help enhance patients’ access to innovative healthcare solutions.
FIRST GLOBAL HALAL BRAZIL BUSINESS FORUM CONCLUDES ON HIGH NOTE WITH 3,000 PARTICIPANTS
The first and biggest business forum on halal, Global Halal Brazil (GHB), organized by the Arab Brazilian Chamber of Commerce (ABCC) in partnership with the Federation of Muslim Associations in Brazil (FAMBRAS Halal) and supported by the Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency (Apex-Brasil), BRF, Iceport and Portonave concluded recently on a high note in Sao Paulo. A total of 3,000 people, including high-officials, business and religious leaders, and experts, attended the event either in-person or virtually as experts shared insights on global halal trade and its potentials. In the opening ceremony of the business forum, Tereza Cristina, Brazilian Minister of Agriculture, emphasized the potential of her country as a supplier of certified products to the global market while Osmar Chohfi, President of ABCC, presented a lecture on the innovative prospects for Brazil’s halal market. ESAAL, THE NEW REGION AMBASSADOR FOR THE EMPLOYEE WELLNESS
As part of promoting positive workplace culture to enhance employee engagement and performance, online consultancy platform “Esaal”, a subsidiary of A15, has launched Esaal Employee Wellness Program (EEWP). The program offers personalized and certified consultancy services such as medical consultations, psychotherapy, life coaching, parenting, nutrition, and fitness consultancy for companies that have signed up for EEWP to help employees cope with the challenges in their workplace. As part of the program, Esaal is also working to facilitate collaborations with healthcare and fitness facilities and psychotherapy clinics to enable Esaal’s extensive network of consultants to provide in-person services. Esaal will also implement social media campaigns to support the healthcare brands collaborating with Esaal in EEWP to promote a positive work culture. Also, employees will be receiving a special discount rate for online consultations for an entire year starting from the date of agreement. Employees and their family members can benefit from it multiple times during the offer period.
