16–31 MAY 2024 #209 UAE AED 20 KSA SAR 20 BAHRAIN BHD 2 KUWAIT KWD 2 OMAN OMR 2 QATAR QAR 20 THE SET-UP MASTER Dyuti Parruck, CEO and founder of Decisive Zone is streamlining business set-up in DubaiChampion Your Health with Elite Healthcare Leadership BMC BURJEEL MEDICAL CITY By Burjeel Holdings In the pursuit of excellence, your health is your strongest foundation. At BMC — Burjeel Medical City, we help you lead your health journey with ensures you stay ahead, with a dedicated team ready to provide advanced diagnostics and tailored wellness programs. This approach keeps you in peak Lead in health with BMC. Book your appointment now. Call +971 800 23 or Visit burjeel.com Safeguarding Your Health at the World's Safest City16–31 MAY 2024 CEO MIDDLE EAST 3 08 COMMENT Good design has the power to create a better world, says Tim Martin, Principal and Managing Director at Gensler Middle East 10 EDUCATION Better education levels contribute to healthier and more agile labour markets, believes Laura Frigenti, CEO of the Global Partnership for Education 16 COVER STORY Dyuti Parruck, CEO and founder of Decisive Zone, shares his insights on what makes his company the ultimate one-stop-shop for seamless business setup in Dubai 48 TIMEPIECES Jaeger-LeCoultre Presents the Duometre Chronograph Moon 50 FINAL THOUGHTS Dubai is advancing with ambitious projects that position it as a leader in sustainable development, says Khalifa Al Zaffin, Executive Chairman of Dubai Aviation City and Corporation and Dubai South 16 08 10 16–31 MAY 2024 #209 CONTENTSTHE BIG PICTURE 4 CEO MIDDLE EAST 16–31 MAY 2024 uilding on its remarkable craftsmanship and unmatched performance, the 2024 INFINITI QX60 arrives with advance safety and connected technologies, a sleeker appearance, and a choice of three grades to suit any driver preference. Customers can choose from the LUXE, SENSORY, or AUTOGRAPH grades to experience luxury redefined. The LUXE variant is tailored for GCC countries, while the LUXE with the Climate Package is designed for custom- ers in the Middle East region. Each grade is equipped with INFINITI’s Intelligent All-Wheel Drive, catering to various preferences and driving needs. Addition- ally, all variants come standard with a suite of advanced safety and technology features, including ProPILOT Assist for enhanced driving confidence. This comprehensive safety suite encom- passes Forward Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Rear Automatic BESPOKE SOPHISTICATION THE 2024 INFINITI QX60 THE BIG PICTURE The 2024 INFINITI QX60 stands out as an enticing option for individuals seeking elevated luxury. Offering seating for up to seven passengers, captivating aesthetics both inside and out, and a plethora of premium features B The QX60’s interior is thoughtfully designed to comfortably accommodate up to seven passengers, ensuring a superior level of comfortTHE BIG PICTURE 16–31 MAY 2024 CEO MIDDLE EAST 5 wheels, silver roof rails, and silver Metallic Weave interior trim, enhancing the vehi- cle’s exterior and interior aesthetics. Additionally, drivers benefit from advanced technology such as the Around View® Monitor with Moving Object Detection, Remote Engine Start, provid- ing comprehensive visibility, convenience, and customisation options for the driver, in addition to INFINITI’s InTouchTM 12.3 – inch Interactive display with Navi. Furthermore, both variants come equipped with additional driver assis- tance in the form of ProPILOT Assist, enhancing safety and comfort on the road. For the QX60 LUXE Climate package, designed for other markets in the Middle East, an extra layer of comfort is added with climatised front seats. The QX60 SENSORY spoils buyers with an array of enhancements, includ- ing massaging eight-way memory front seats, heated second-row seats, illumi- nated front and rear kickplates, enhanced interior ambient lighting, a premium smooth leather-wrapped steering wheel, black open-pore ash wood trim, a mo- tion-activated liftgate, a Bose® Perfor- mance series 17-speaker audio system, as well as a camera based Smart Rear View mirror and 10.8 inch Head-Up Display for added convenience and safety. Exemplifying the best of INFINITI design, the QX60 AUTOGRAPH includes second-row captain’s chairs with a removable centre console, a Black Obsidian roof with black roof rails, and semi-aniline leather seating (first and second rows) with quilting, perforation, and contrasting stitching. The AUTO- GRAPH package encompasses all features of the SENSORY trim and adds a distinc- tive touch with a two-tone paint option The 2024 INFINITI QX60 is now available for sale across the region and invites bold owners to challenge conven- tion and indulge in a driving experience that rewards at every turn. Braking, Blind Spot Warning, Lane De- parture Warning, Driver Attention Alert, and High Beam Assist, ensuring a secure driving experience on any journey. Elegance meets utility As with all INFINITI models, stand- out design is one of the hallmarks of the QX60. Returning for 2024 are its captivating, origami-inspired mesh grille, lighting signatures evoking digital piano keys and the available contrasting roof. In addition, the interior welcomes occupants with an exceptional level of design and quality. Available semi-aniline leather seats, open-pore wood and ambient light- ing further elevate the experience. The QX60’s interior is thoughtfully designed to comfortably accommodate up to seven passengers, ensuring a superior level of comfort. For the AUTOGRAPH trim, which includes second-row captain’s chairs, seating is configured for six pas- sengers. The second-row seats are cleverly designed to tilt and slide, simplifying ac- cess to the third row without the need to remove a child safety seat. This thought- ful feature enhances the overall usability of the vehicle, making it an ideal choice for families and passengers seeking both functionality and comfort. Generous power, easily controlled Backing up beauty with confident power is a 3.5-liter direct-injected V-6 engine, producing 279 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque. Paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, standard paddle shifters allow for additional control. The powertrain delivers a combined fuel economy of up to 11.0 km/L. Tailored trim levels In the realm of Infiniti’s QX60 lineup, two distinct variants cater to the diverse needs of consumers across different regions. Both the QX60 LUXE and the QX60 LUXE Climate Package variant offer an impressive array of features that exemplify luxury and technological inno- vation. Standout features common to both variants include 20-inch aluminum-alloy The QX60 offer an impressive array of features that exemplify luxury and technological innovation6 CEO MIDDLE EAST 16–31 MAY 2024 ello and welcome to the May mid-month issue of CEO Middle East. This month, we feature Dyuti Parruck, CEO and founder of Decisive Zone, on our cover. In his interview on page 16, Parruck discusses how he founded Decisive Zone to be a one- stop-shop solution for setting up busi- nesses seamlessly in Dubai. He shares insights into aligning his company’s mission with Dubai’s ambitious Vision 2040 to welcome more global investors and entrepreneurs. Parruck’s focus on facilitating op- portunities for businesses and inves- tors contributes directly to achieving Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s goals of diversifying the economy, develop- ing cultural offerings, and increasing Dubai’s population to 7.8 million residents by 2040. This far-sighted vision continues positioning Dubai at the forefront of global growth and setting an example for development. Even in the face of challenges like the pandemic, leaders like Sheikh Mohammed and com- QUESTIONS? COMMENTS? Share your views on thought leadership and innovation by getting in touch: matthew.amlot@itp.com MATTHEW AMLÔT, EDITORIAL DIRECTOR @MATTHEWAMLOT DISRUPTING THE PARADIGM How the present impacts the future, colours this issue H EDITOR’S LETTER panies like Decisive Zone kept their sights set on long-term prosperity. One programme instrumental to Dubai’s continued success has been the Golden Visa residency scheme. By removing barriers for top talent and investors to put down roots, around five years since its launch the Golden Visa has attracted more foreign capital than ever post-Covid. This influx boosts sectors from real estate to healthcare through job crea- tion and economic activity. Expand- ing eligibility categories now wel- come those with skills in high demand or property purchases from $545,000, demonstrating Dubai’s commitment to business. “Since its launch approximately five years ago, the Golden Visa has emerged as an even more compel- ling option post-Covid-19, attracting high net-worth individuals (HNWIs) and investors to Dubai. This influx of foreign investment has not only bolstered economic growth across various sectors of Dubai, including hospitality, F&B, and tourism but has also contributed to job creation and development within the real estate industry. This has been instrumental in the UAE’s transformation into a global hub,” Parruck explains. As companies look ahead, succes- sion planning grows ever more press- ing – especially for family businesses dominating the region entering their third generation. On page 12, we explore choosing the right leaders to carry firms into the future. Meanwhile, education remains paramount for sustaining business growth. Our analysis on page 10 warns that potential education crises could negatively impact companies reliant on skilled local workforces of the future. In our expanded technology sec- tion, topics such as digital asset custody are fuelling fintech disruption, and AI surveillance reveal both opportuni- ties and responsibilities in shaping new frontiers. Continuing to invest intelligently in education, talent, and innovation will define success for the next generation of leaders globally and across the Middle East. With that I’ll let you get to read- ing. Until next time. 16–31 MAY 2024 CEO MIDDLE EAST 7 To receive your copy delivered directly to your door, subscribe online at www.itp.com/subscriptions The most important business people and CEOs talk to the most important magazine 15–30 APRIL 2024 #207 SELF-MADE BILLIONAIRE Meet the Masala King, Dr. Dhananjay Datar, the Chairman and Managing Director of Al Adil Trading Company UAE AED 20 KSA SAR 20 BAHRAIN BHD 2 KUWAIT KWD 2 OMAN OMR 2 QATAR QAR 20 The publishers regret that they cannot accept liability for error or omissions contained in this publication, however caused. The opinions and views contained in this publication are not necessarily those of the publishers. Readers are advised to seek specialist advice before acting on information contained in this publication which is provided for general use and may not be appropriate for the reader’s particular circumstances. The ownership of trademarks is acknowledged. No part of this publication or any part of the contents thereof may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without the permission of the publishers in writing. An exemption is hereby granted for extracts used for the purpose of fair review. PO BOX 500024, DUBAI, UAE +971 4 4 44 3000 OFFICES IN ABU DHABI, DUBAI, LONDON, MUMBAI, RIYADH & GENEVA PUBLISHED BY AND © 2024 ITP MEDIA GROUP FZ-LLC MEDIA ITP MEDIA GROUP CEO ALI AKAWI CFO TOBY JAY SPENCER-DAVIES MANAGING DIRECTOR MARNE SCHWARTZ MANAGING DIRECTOR ANIL BHOYRUL EDITORIAL EDITORIAL DIRECTOR MATTHEW AMLÔT matthew.amlot@itp.com SUB EDITOR EDWARD LIAMZON SENIOR DESIGN MANAGER GERI BATARA SONNY ART DIRECTOR MOHAMMED IRQSOSY ADVERTISING GENERAL MANAGER MIREI AVDOU +971 4 444 3215 mirei.avdou@itp.com GROUP COMMERICAL DIRECTOR ANDY SULAHIAN +971 4 444 3597 andy.sulahian@itp.com SENIOR COMMERCIAL MANAGER SAMIR GLOR + 971 4 444 3320 samir.glor@itp.com GROUP COMMERCIAL MANAGER NEHA SIKRI + 971 4 444 3353 neha.sikri@itp.com COMMERCIAL MANAGER PALLAVI CHOUDHAARRYY + 971 4 444 335959 pallavi.choudharryy@i@itp.p.coomm EVENTS & MARKETING SENIOR MARKETING & EVENTS MANAGER ANTHONY CHANDRAN +971 4 444 3685 anthony.chandran@itp.com SENIOR EVENTS MANAGER SHIVANGI ROY +971 4 444 3460 shivangi.roy@itp.com VIDEOGRAPHY VIDEOGRAPHER MUHAMMAD KALEEM VIDEO EDITOR LIJU CHERUVATHUR PRODUCTION PRODUCTION MANAGER DENNY KOLLANNOOR PRODUCTION COORDINATOR MANOJ MAHADEVAN SENIOR IMAGE EDITOR EMMALYN ROBLES DISTRIBUTION HEAD OF DISTRIBUTION AND NEWSTRADE ABDULRAHIM ALPARAMBIL DISTRIBUTION COORDINATOR AVINASH PEREIRA CIRCULATION EXECUTIVE RAJESH PILLAI ITP LIVE GENERAL MANAGER AHMAD BASHOUR MAY 2024 #208 THE MEDICINE MAN Sherif Beshara, Group CEO of American Hospital Dubai, shares his vision of the future of healthcare in the Middle East UAE AED 20 KSA SAR 20 BAHRAIN BHD 2 KUWAIT KWD 2 OMAN OMR 2 QATAR QAR 20TECHNOLOGY 8 CEO MIDDLE EAST 16–31 MAY 2024 t’s an incredibly exciting time to be working in the Middle East. The architectural ser- vices market is growing at a compound annual growth rate of 7.61 percent over the next five years, driven, in part, by increased investment in the region, the emergence of giga-projects, and a spike in demand for sustainability. At the same time, there’s a mount- Good design has the power to create a better world, be that through improving the human experience, or creating a more sustainable future. Inclusive design principles should be rooted in culture Whilst there has been a tendency in the Middle East for mixed-use devel- opments to be within large, enclosed boxes, the last few years have seen successful examples of models that veer away from such a formula. The result is a shift towards implementing sustainability measures such as reduc- ing the use of energy for cooling large volumes of atrium space, a physical connection to our outdoor environ- ment, access to fresh air, and connect- ing open spaces to the surrounding urban fabric of the city to encourage physical movement. In fact, many of these principles have always been deeply rooted in the culture of the Good design has the power to create a better world REGIONAL REVITALISATION: DESIGNING FOR IMPACT IN THE MIDDLE EAST Msheireb Downtown Doha is the world’s first sustainable downtown regeneration project I COMMENT BY TIM MARTIN, PRINCIPAL AND MANAGING DIRECTOR AT GENSLER MIDDLE EAST ing focus on human-centred design which considers local context by blending cultural appreciation with visionary design principles. From master planning designed for connec- tion and collaboration, to mixed-use venues which drive extraordinary and diverse guest experiences, how humans interact with spaces in the Middle East has never been more important. COMMENT 16–31 MAY 2024 CEO MIDDLE EAST 9 region, but perhaps due to the swift modernisation of cities, such principles may have been forgotten. 1364ah - Riyadh’s new premier life- style centre – is a great representation of inclusive design. Located adjacent to the eastern gate of the Diplomatic Quarter, the mixed-use development is inspired by natural strata formations prevalent in the rugged landscape that surrounds Riyadh. The ground level is designed as a free-flowing, vibrant courtyard that opens outwards in every direction and invites the public to engage. Water features, shading elements, and landscaping create an intimate space that hosts naturally shaded outdoor seating areas, event spaces, and community gathering areas. The Middle East’s 20-minute cities need to be innovative As city leaders around the world seek out design strategies to help them enhance central business districts to be more lifestyle-oriented, the concept of walkable cities has grown in popularity. The Middle East’s arid climate, and a propensity for individuals and families to rely on personal transportation, means planners in this region need to find innovative and bespoke solutions to ensure these cities thrive. As a result, designing around the 20-minute city concept calls for a move away from general master planning to specialised city design that meets blended work-life demands. Today, urban planners and designers are considering more mixed- use, flexible approaches that integrate living, working, and leisure into every district, as well as development to cater to the varied needs of urban dwellers. In Qatar, Msheireb Downtown Doha is the world’s first sustainable downtown regeneration project, and an example of specialised design. Combining modern construction tech- niques with cultural and contextual precedent for sustainable design, the downtown redevelopment focuses on the human experience, street presence, The Visa CEMEA Headquarters in Dubai is one example of this. The office has been designed with both user experience and regional con- text in mind for a local yet global experience. The new, purpose-driven headquarters promotes mobility and flexibility through alternative work- spaces, offers a variety of “neigh- bourhoods” such as informal meeting areas and work cafes, features the newest technology, and incorporates amenities and biophilia to improve workers’ wellbeing. As designers, we believe that each project we undertake has the potential to impact health and wellness, influ- encing how people work. We focus on creating spaces that are not only functional but also supportive of men- tal health and emotional well-being. As we move forward, we expect to see more clients prioritising office spaces that integrate personal comfort with aesthetic appeal. Regeneration will take centre stage Sustainable design is more than an obligation; it’s an opportunity to create resilient urban environments that stand the test of time and contribute to our planet’s health. To advance this mission and develop carbon-neutral cities in the Middle East, we must consider the importance of regeneration. This involves looking at the full environmental cost of carbon emissions plus energy, water, food, and material demands. Then, offsetting all of those demands and providing even more ecosystem services and biodiversity benefits beyond simply counteracting the damage created by cities. This is beginning to be delivered through evaluating the economic value of services like renewable energy, water cleaning through nature-based systems or the regreening of large ter- ritories. As a result, we’re able to recast cities as the solution to climate change, rather than as the villain. “SUSTAINABLE DESIGN IS AN OPPORTUNITY TO CREATE RESILIENT URBAN ENVIRONMENTS THAT STAND THE TEST OF TIME AND CONTRIBUTE TO OUR PLANET’S HEALTH” As designers, we believe that each project we undertake has the potential to impact health and wellness, Martin says and progressive approaches to provid- ing human comfort in a hot climate. The space unites a sense of community and includes retail, offices, a mosque, hotel, and both low-rise and high-rise residential, perfectly embodying the principles of a 20-minute city. Workplaces are becoming compelling destinations Key Middle Eastern markets, such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia, have successfully positioned themselves as ideal locations for global firms to set-up regional head- quarters. This has given rise to the design and ongoing delivery of some spectacu- lar new workplaces and buildings. Next >