< PreviousTHE LARGEST TECH & AI SHOW IN THE WORLD Global Collaboration to Forge a Future AI Economy Exhibitors 6,500+ Countries 180+ Tech Executives 200,000+ Connecting you to new business opportunities The ONLY event uniting the full tech ecosystem, governments, enterprises, investors, startups, academiadriving cross-sector innovations. Build partnerships with rising Digital Nations with 40% growth in international participation.#GITEXGLOBAL gitex.com ORGANISED BY Scan the QR code to SECURE YOUR PASS # G IT E XGXGGX LOLOLOOO ABAABAABA L g it e x . c o m OOOOORGRGGGGRGRGAAANISNNINISN EEEEDDDEDEE BYBYYBYBY Scan the QQRR cocococodedede tttooo SECURE YOUR PASS 14 - 18 OCT 2024 DUBAI WORLD TRADE CENTRE MON 11 AM - 5 PM TUE - FRI 10 AM - 5 PM12 Vol. 25/11, October 2024 Partner Content Drawing inspiration from Baccarat’s crystal heritage, the architectural marvel will accentuate the city’s existing skyline Baccarat’s first Dubai Hotel & Residences unveiled Baccarat Hotel Dubai marks a new chapter in the brand’s legacy, bringing its unparalleled craftsmanship and artistry to a remarkable city design draws inspiration from Bacca- rat’s crystal heritage, and aims to accen- tuate the city’s existing skyline. The Baccarat Hotel & Residences Dubai stands out as an architectural marvel, meticulously curated by a team of world-renowned exper ts. The project’s design is led by Studio Libeskind, the architectural firm respon- sible for the beautiful unique structure, whilst design studio 1508 London will ensure the opulent interiors match the grandeur of the exterior. The project is a result of a strategic collaboration between Shamal Holding, SH Hotels & Resorts, and H&H Devel- opment, a Dubai-based real estate inves- tor, developer, and asset manager. “This remarkable and industry-de- fining project will set a new standard of ultra-luxury hospitality in the city, unit- ing the heritage of Baccarat with the contemporary spirit, energy and dyna- I n the heart of Downtown Dubai, a new icon is set to redefine luxury living and hospitality. Launched by Shamal Holding, Baccarat Hotel & Residences aims to transform the city’s ultra-luxury hospitality sector. Projected to open in 2027, this development marks the first Baccarat Hotel & Residences in the UAE, bring- ing the 260-year-old French luxury brand to Dubai. “We believe in deliver ing the extraordinary in everything we do,” says Abdulla Binhabtoor, CEO of Shamal Holding in an exclusive interview with Arabian Business. This ethos aligns perfectly with the Baccarat brand, which has been synonymous with luxury and craftsmanship for over 260 years. A crystalline addition to Dubai's skyline The Baccarat Hotel & Residences, part of a new ultra-luxury, mixed-use devel- opment in Downtown Dubai, consists of two crystal-inspired towers; one will house both the 145-key hotel and branded residences, and the second exclusively residential. With uninter- rupted views of the Burj Khalifa, the ABE_2511_12-13_Baccarat_13402464.indd 1229/09/2024 09:23arabianbusiness.com 13 Partner Content day Baccarat’ experience through the same inspirational design as the hotel. Offer ing tw o-to-four-bedroom furnished apartments alongside four penthouses, including a five-bedroom palatial residence complete with a private gym, pool and wine cellar, each dwelling has impressive Burj Khalifa views. Residents will have access to all of the hotel’s amenities. The Grand Salon at Baccarat Hotel & Residences Dubai will feature high ceilings and soft drapery, illumi- nated by Baccarat crystal chandeliers. The signature red accents provide a bold touch whilst the Baccarat bar will attract guests with its mir rored surfaces and velvet decor, centered around a grand piano. For ultimate relaxation, the luxur ious spa is designed for a tranquil experience with The Sanctuary providing views of the Burj Khalifa. “This development represents our commitment to offering extraordinary, elevated, and bespoke experiences,” Binhabtoor adds. The Baccarat Hotel & Residences Dubai is part of Shamal Holding’s port- folio. The diversified investment firm has ambitious plans and has recently launched Dubai Harbour Residences, a limited collection of beachfront apart- ments and penthouses. mism of Dubai,” says Miltos Bossinis, CEO of H&H Development LLC. Binhabtoor is particularly proud that Shamal is bringing the first Bacca- rat Hotel & Residences to the UAE. “The property draws inspiration from Baccarat’s iconic crystal heritage, while the breathtaking setting in Downtown Dubai will complement its regal elegance,” he states. The project’s stra- tegic location offers easy access to Dubai Mall and DIFC, allowing visitors to quickly connect to renowned institu- tions from the worlds of fashion, art, food, and entertainment. A curated experience Shamal Holding’s approach to this development is one of meticulous cura- tion. “When we think about real estate development and mixed-use develop- ment, we view it as a curation, and we always seek to partner with the right brands and the right people who share that vision with us,” Binhabtoor explains. This attention to detail extends to every aspect of the project, “We’re paying very close attention to what’s important, and putting a lot of energy into the details,” Binhabtoor adds. Unparalleled luxury and amenities Guests and residents alike will have access to high-end, world-class food and beverage outlets within the complex including a street level promenade and plaza. While specific details about these establishments are yet to be revealed, they are expected to add to Dubai’s already rich culinary scene, offering dining experiences that match the luxury of their surroundings. Raul Leal, CEO, SH Hotels and Resorts, which will manage the property says: “Baccarat Hotel Dubai marks a new chapter in the brand’s legacy, bring- ing its unparalleled craftsmanship and artistry to a remarkable city. The metic- ulously crafted spaces embody the Baccarat spirit, where comfort meets sophistication, offering guests and resi- dents access to unforgettable opulence, with every detail designed to reimagine the art of living.” Occupying the floors above the hotel are ultra-exclusive branded residences, intended to give occupants the ‘Every- The project is a result of a strategic collaboration between Shamal Holding, SH Hotels & Resorts, and H&H Development ABE_2511_12-13_Baccarat_13402464.indd 1329/09/2024 09:2414 Vol. 25/11, October 2024 As demand grows, the UK-based tech company has set its sights on new phone models and vibrant colours, taking its BlackBerry-style keyboard cases to the next level Clicks Technology expands its viral keyboard case line In a world where touchscreens reign supreme, the tactile keyboard seemed all but forgotten – a relic of a bygone era when BlackBerrys were king, and typing was an experience, not a chore. Yet, in a surprising twist of tech fate, Clicks Technology is bringing it back with a vengeance. The company's BlackBerry-inspired keyboard cases are merging the nostalgia of physical keys with the sleek modernity of smart- phones, giving users a unique typing solution that has quickly become the talk of the tech world. BY TALA MICHEL ISSA Trending ABE_2511_14-18_Trending_13377456.indd 1427/09/2024 17:47arabianbusiness.com 15 While the tactile keyboard might have seemed destined for the tech graveyard, Clicks Technology is prov- ing there’s still room for the old-school way of doing things – only better. The company, founded by a trio of mobile industry veterans, has captured the imagination of those who still long for the precision and feel of buttons beneath their fingers. Since its initial launch earlier this year, Clicks’ keyboard cases have gained a loyal following, providing an answer to a question many thought had been settled: Can we go back to the days of physical typing without sacrificing the modern features of today’s smartphones? Since the release of Clicks’ first keyboard case in Januar y 2024, demand has surged, par ticularly among former BlackBerry devotees and professionals who need to type on the go. Clicks Technology has capitalised on the nostalgic appeal of physical keyboards while adding its own modern twist – combining the precision of tactile typing with the convenience of Bluetooth connectiv- ity. The result? A product that brings the best of both worlds to today’s tech-savvy consumers. But Clicks Technology isn't just riding the wave of nostalgia. In an exclusive inter view with Arabian Business, Adrian Li, CEO of Clicks Technology, details the company’s ambitious plans for the future. The success of their initial product line has spurred a rapid expansion, with Clicks setting its sights on new phone models and enhanced customisation options. According to Li, 2024 will be a pivotal year for the company as it aims to cater to a broader audience by offering its signature keyboard cases for a variety of smartphones beyond Apple’s ecosystem. Clicks Technology’s upcoming product expansion is more than just a move to capture additional market share – it’s a calculated strategy to offer users more choices. “Next year, we’ll be releasing more colours and expanding our support to different phone models,” Li reveals. While the CEO stopped short of disclosing which brands the company will target, his remarks suggest that major Android devices could soon be compatible with Clicks' keyboard cases. The company’s latest iPhone 16 cases, available for pre-order starting October 7, showcase its dedication to both aesthetics and functionality. Priced at $139 for the iPhone 16 and 16 Pro, and $159 for the iPhone 16 Plus and 16 Pro Max models, these cases are offered in three stylish colours: surf, spice, and onyx. Each case is designed to seamlessly snap onto the phone, providing users with a full keyboard that enhances typing accu- racy while preserving the smartphone’s sleek design. For Clicks Technology, colour isn’t just an afterthought – it’s part of their ethos of personalisation. “We believe that smartphones are personal devices, and people should have the option to express themselves, not just with wall- papers or cases, but with the very tools they use daily,” says Li. This push towards greater variety reflects Clicks' commitment to meeting the diverse needs and tastes of its users. Clicks Technology’s success story is far from a fluke. Founded by indus- try veterans Michael Fisher, Adrian Li, and Kevin Michaluk, the company’s DNA is rooted in decades of mobile technology expertise. Fisher, a former BlackBerry executive, brings a wealth of knowledge from the physical keyboard era, while Michaluk, a tech influencer, provides insight into the moder n-day consumer market. Together with Li, they’ve created a product that seamlessly merges the old and the new – redefining what a smartphone accessory can be. “Our goal has always been to deliver a product that feels intuitive,” explains Li. “It needed to integrate with modern smartphones while offering the tactile experience many people still crave.” The result is a sleek, innovative solution that appeals to both tech enthusiasts and professionals who prioritise productivity on their smart- phones. Since its debut, Clicks’ keyboard case has earned glowing reviews from users, many of whom praise its ability to boost typing accu- racy without compromising the smart- phone’s modern aesthetics. Despite its rapid global growth, Clicks Technology’s products have yet to make a significant splash in the UAE – though that’s about to change. The company had initially planned to enter the Dubai market earlier this year to coincide with the iPhone 16 launch. However, logistical chal- lenges delayed the rollout. “We are planning to bring Clicks to Dubai in the summer, closer to when the iPhone 16 comes out,” Li tells Arabian Business during the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona. Although the timeline has shifted, the company remains committed to its UAE expansion. According to Li, Clicks is working hard to establish local distribution partnerships to ensure that customers in the region have access to its products as soon as possible. The UAE, with its thriving tech scene and large smartphone user base, represents a significant market for the company. With its iPhone 16 cases set to launch soon, Clicks Technology is already looking ahead. The company’s focus on broadening phone model compatibility is likely to open up new opportunities in a competitive market. The promise of more customisation options, including an expanded colour palette, shows that Clicks is keeping a close eye on trends, ensuring its prod- ucts remain both practical and stylish. As Clicks continues to grow, the demand for tactile typing doesn’t seem to be going anywhere. With an innova- tive approach that merges nostalgia with cutting-edge tech, Clicks Technology is proving that sometimes the best way to move forward is by looking back. ABE_2511_14-18_Trending_13377456.indd 1527/09/2024 17:4716 Vol. 25/11, October 2024 Arcapita and Dgpays consortium acquires stake in UAE’s leading payment solutions provider In a deal worth $385m, Mashreq has sold a major ity stake in NEOPAY, one of the UAE’s fast- est-growing digital payment solutions providers, to a consortium led by Arcapita Group Holdings and Dgpays. The sale, which is subject to regula- tory approval, marks a key milestone in NEOPAY’s journey towards becom- ing a reg ional leader in dig ital payments. NEOPAY has rapidly gained trac- tion among merchants and ecom- merce players, positioning itself as a dominant force in the Middle East’s digital payments landscape. The acquisition by Arcapita and Dgpays comes at a time of significant growth in the digital payments sector, with card transactions in the UAE expected to see double-digit growth over the next five years. This new ownership structure, which sees Mashreq retaining a minority stake, is poised to accelerate NEOPAY’s expansion plans, both within the UAE and across the broader Middle East region. With Dgpays’ advanced fintech solutions and Arcap- ita’s investment exper tise, the company is well-positioned to capital- ise on the UAE’s shift towards a cash- less economy. Founded as a strategic division within Mashreq, NEOPAY has grown to serve key sectors such as retail, hospitality, and government. The UAE’s digitally savvy population, coupled with government-led initia- tives for digital transformation, has made NEOPAY a crucial player in the region’s fintech sector. According to Arcapita CEO Atif Abdulmalik, the acquisition aligns perfectly with the firm’s strategy of investing in market leaders with strong growth potential. With this partnership, NEOPAY is expected to expand into new markets and offer an array of value-added ser vices, driving fur ther innovation in the payments industry. Mashreq Sells majority stake in NEOPAY for $385m Trending ABE_2511_14-18_Trending_13377456.indd 1627/09/2024 17:4718 Vol. 25/11, October 2024 Trending New developer Source of Fate launches with $2.7bn pipeline in Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah Independent developer plans to transform residential communities with five luxury projects across two emirates Dubai’s luxury property market is about to welcome a new heavyweight. Source of Fate, an independent developer backed by Dubai-based conglomerate Wheel of Fate, is set to launch with a staggering $2.7bn pipeline of residential projects across Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah. The new venture will focus on craft- ing premium, sustainable living commu- nities, aiming to redefine luxury living in the UAE. With full funding already secured, the developer is guaranteeing project delivery across five distinct devel- opments over the next 12 months. Two of Source of Fate’s flagship projects will be located in prime areas of Dubai, while three others will take shape on Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah. The latter location has seen a surge in interest following the announcement of the UAE’s first gaming resort by Wynn Resorts, making it a hotspot for investors. Leading the charge is Dr Majid Jack Hsiung, a seasoned property expert with over 20 years of experience in residential, retail, and office developments across the Middle East and Asia. With Hsiung at the helm, Source of Fate aims to deliver a new standard of luxury, sustain- ability, and wellness in real estate. Off-plan sales for Source of Fate’s projects will begin over the coming months, with global real estate consul- tancy Savills advising on the develop- ments. The firm’s entry into the market marks a significant step for Dubai’s ever-growing property sector, adding to the region’s vibrant portfolio of high- end developments. ABE_2511_14-18_Trending_13377456.indd 1827/09/2024 17:47Next >