The Smashi Business Show
The Smashi Business Show covers AI, tech, startup, and business stories from the Arab world. Hosted by Abdul Majid Awan, Ward Ahmed, and Wael Hossam El Din, it targets driven individuals, dreamers, and doers. The podcast provides insights into the regional business landscape.
Episodes
Binance $6.3B Breach; Exxon & Chevron Exit ADIPEC; Mubadala $500M AI Fund
HEADLINES:• Binance Reports $6.3 Billion Security Breach, Freezes $3 Billion in Crypto • Exxon and Chevron Executives Pull Out of ADIPEC as 170 Countries Expected to Attend• Mubadala Ventures Chief Ibrahim Ajami to Launch $500 Million AI Fund Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Sh
Dubai Fines Moody’s, $12 Lebanese Tawouk & Riyadh Airport Losses
HEADLINES:• Dubai Regulator Just Fined Moody’s Middle East Credit Rating Agency AED 2.15 Million• Lebanon’s Viral $12 Tawouk Sandwich Just Sold 20,000 Units in 11 Days• Riyadh Airport Faces Up to $50 Million in Losses Following Houthi AttacksNewsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Fri
Dubai $543M IPO, Israeli Starlink Rival, Abu Dhabi $1.2B LNG Fund
HEADLINES:• Dubai Firm’s $543 Million IPO Covered Within Minutes Despite Iran War• Israeli Ad-Tech Firm Allegedly Targeted Elon Musk’s Starlink Users• Abu Dhabi Launches $1.2 Billion LNG Investment FundPowered by Podeo — Listen to this episode
Apollo Mubadala Capital Stake, Lebanese Parents
• Apollo to Buy Nearly 10% Stake in Abu Dhabi-Based Mubadala Capital• Lebanese Parents Sue OpenAI CEO Following the Suicide of Their 15-Year-Old Son• Saudi Arabia to Open Port of Neom Container Terminal on November 10Powered by Podeo — Listen to this episode
Rafale Upgrade, Saudi AI Deals, Barclays Expansion, Event Delays, Airline
HEADLINES:• France and UAE Revive Plans for Next-Generation Rafale Fighter Upgrade• Barclays Presses Ahead with Saudi Arabia Expansion Despite Regional Tensions• Saudi Arabia’s Humain Secures Potential 50 MW AI Deal with Nebius• Saudi Arabia Postpones Two More Major Events to 2027• Dubai Entrepreneur Highlights Customer Service Gap Between Emirates and Air New ZealandPowered by Podeo — Listen to t
Riyadh Airport Reopens, ADIA Backs €10.8B Qiagen Buyout, and Ziina Secures Triple UAE License
In this episode of the Smashi Business Show, we cover King Khalid International Airport resuming operations in Riyadh following security disruptions, alongside flight reroutings via Al-Qassim. We then break down ADIA joining EQT and CPP Investments in a €10.8 billion take-private acquisition of molecular testing leader Qiagen. Finally, we examine homegrown fintech Ziina becoming the first in the U
Saudi Women’s Football, Rockefeller Dubai Tower & Jared Kushner Allegations
Saudi Women’s Football, Rockefeller Dubai Tower & Jared Kushner AllegationsPowered by Podeo — Listen to this episode
CZ, Musk, UAE Investments, AI Cybersecurity, $39B Crackdown
HEADLINES:• Binance Founder CZ Warns of AI Cybersecurity Risks as Banks Face Threats• Elon Musk Reportedly Invests $1 Billion in Gulf-Backed Skydance• UAE to Invest Additional €15 Billion in Greece • UAE-Led Global Crackdown Uncovers $39 Billion in Illicit Funds Powered by Podeo — Listen to this episode
Oil Hits $110, HSBC Reviews Palantir, Oura Expands in Abu Dhabi
HEADLINES:• Oil Jumps to $110 as Saudi Air Defences Intercept Drone Near Aramco Oilfield• "HSBC Reviews Palantir Investment in $9 Billion Islamic Fund Following Pension Fund Concerns"• Oura Establishes Abu Dhabi Operations to Advance Maternal Health ResearchPowered by Podeo — Listen to this episode
Arada $3.8B Saudi Debut; Alfozan Bail; Vault Wealth CEO on Investing
HEADLINES:• Arada Makes Saudi Debut With $3.8 Billion Riyadh Development • Saudi Consulate Offers to Fund Alfozan Bail Bond • Vault Wealth CEO Bilal Abou-Diab on Investing Amid Geopolitical Uncertainty Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): https://aug.us/3BTU
Saudi FII Delay, Ronaldo’s Al Nassr Deal & OpenAI Spy Case
HEADLINES:• Saudi Arabia Postpones FII Conference Until 2027• RedBird Capital Eyes $267 Million Deal for Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr• Former OpenAI Engineer Accused of Spying on Executives Held in US CustodyPowered by Podeo — Listen to this episode
Dubai Economy Drops 2.3%, DIP IPO, Webook Europe Expansion & FII10 Delay
HEADLINES:• FII Institute postpones FII10 press conference in Riyadh • Dubai Economy Contracts 2.3% in First Half of 2026 • Dubai Investments Park Could Be Dubai’s First IPO of 2026 • Saudi-Born Webook Expands Into Europe, Eyes Future IPOPowered by Podeo — Listen to this episode
IMI Telegraph Dispute, Qatar Solar Investment & HSBC Islamic Fund
IMI Telegraph Dispute, Qatar Solar Investment & HSBC Islamic FundPowered by Podeo — Listen to this episode
Israeli Spyware, Saudi Asian Cup 2027 & Aldar’s AED 1.1B Sharjah Deal
HEADLINES:• Israeli Ad-Tech Firm Helped Place Spyware on Al Jazeera Devices: Report • Saudi Arabia Says 2027 Asian Cup Preparations Remain on Track Despite Attacks • Aldar enters Sharjah with Dh1.1bn residential acquisition Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday
Dubai Mall Plaza Revealed, Saudi FII Goes Hybrid, OpenAI Arrest Update
HEADLINES:• Mohamed Alabbar Teases New Dubai Mall Plaza and Hotel Development • Saudi Arabia Plans Hybrid FII Conference as Major Events Face Postponements • Lawyer Defends Saudi OpenAI Engineer Following Arrest Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): https://a
OpenAI Engineer Charged, WHOOP Arabic & Saurav Jain on Mortgages
HEADLINES:• OpenAI Engineer Alfozan Allegedly Hid Recording Device in Executive Meeting Room • WHOOP Just Launched in Arabic, With a New Qatar Research Hub on the Way • Saurav Jain: The Man Behind Dubai’s Mortgages Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): https:
Misk Forum Cancelled, Man City Talks & UAE Budget
HEADLINES:• Saudi Arabia's Misk Global Forum Just Cancelled Its 2026 Edition• Manchester City Held Premier League Settlement Talks: Bloomberg• UAE Approves AED 292.5 Billion Federal Budget for 2027–2029Powered by Podeo — Listen to this episode
Riyadh FII, ICC Sanctions, Dubai Metro, Autobia $12M Funding
HEADLINES:• Riyadh’s FII and World Petroleum Congress Remain on Schedule Amid Airport Attacks• DMCC Chairman Congratulates Navi Pillay on Nobel Peace Prize Amid US Sanctions on ICC• Dubai RTA Wins Dubai-it Award as Metro Punctuality Hits 99.7%• Saudi Startup Autobia Raises $12 Million to Expand Auto Parts BusinessPowered by Podeo — Listen to this episode
UAE IPO Outlook, QatarEnergy’s $3B Chinese Loan, and Oil Surges Near $100
In this episode of the Smashi Business Show, we discuss Morgan Stanley’s bullish outlook on UAE capital and credit markets following regional stabilization. We then break down QatarEnergy securing a $3 billion facility from four major Chinese banks to fund general working capital. Finally, we examine rising oil prices near $100 per barrel and market reactions following security disruptions at Riya
DP World’s Bangladesh Deal, UAE-Thailand CEPA, and Multi-Billion Syria Real Estate Investments
In this episode of the Smashi Business Show, we examine DP World securing a 15-year concession to operate a major container terminal at Bangladesh’s largest port. We then break down the conclusion of CEPA negotiations between the UAE and Thailand to accelerate bilateral trade and investment. Finally, we explore global hospitality groups and UAE developers—including Eagle Hills, Emaar, and Arada—pl
Saudi Water Billionaires, Elon Musk & Mashreq’s Rajeev Chalisgaonkar
HEADLINES:• Saudi Arabia’s Water Billionaires Behind a Giant $35B Desalination Business • Elon Musk’s Boring Company Explores Underground Tunnel Projects in Abu Dhabi • Rajeev Chalisgaonkar, Group Head of Business Banking & NEO BIZ, Mashreq Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smash
Dubai AI Agents, OpenAI $30B & Abu Dhabi $60B
HEADLINES:• Sheikh Hamdan Launches Dubai’s Create AI Agents Championship• OpenAI in Talks With UAE Funds, Including MGX, for $30B Funding Round• $60B New Mountain Capital Joins Abu Dhabi’s ADGMPowered by Podeo — Listen to this episode
Smashi Business Show live from Day 2 of AI Everything Abu Dhabi 2026 event
Smashi Business Show live from Day 2 of AI Everything Abu Dhabi 2026 eventPowered by Podeo — Listen to this episode
Smashi Business Show live from the 2026 AI Everything Abu Dhabi event
Smashi Business Show live from the 2026 AI Everything Abu Dhabi eventPowered by Podeo — Listen to this episode
Jeddah Tower, Saudi Oil, Qatar Gas, Gaza Journalists & Egypt Gold Bids
HEADLINES:• Jeddah Tower Set For Late 2028 Completion As Construction Accelerates• Saudi Arabia Boosts Oil Flows Through East-West Pipeline• Qatar PM Confirms $24B Gas Sales Loss, Says Economy Remains Resilient• UN Rapporteur Rejects Israel’s Claim That 170 Gaza Journalists Were Terrorists• Egyptian Billionaire Naguib Sawiris is Bidding For Five New Gold Exploration Blocks In EgyptPowered by
Mohamed Alabbar in Syria, Qatar’s $5.5M Startup Drive, and Riyadh Metro Expansion
In this episode of the Smashi Business Show, we cover Emirati businessman Mohamed Alabbar exploring investment opportunities in Syria and joining the launch of Idlib’s 3,000-unit Al-Nahda housing project. We then examine Qatar’s new $5.5 million incentive package to attract global startups across key tech sectors. Finally, we break down Alstom’s €460 million contract to supply additional driverles
Abu Dhabi vs. the Premier League, Gulf Oil Winners, and Lamcy Plaza's Comeback
On this episode of the Smashi Business Show, host Abdul Majid Awan covers the top stories shaping Gulf business. Abu Dhabi reportedly threatens to pull billions in UK investment after the Premier League finds Manchester City guilty of breaking financial rules, setting up a major diplomatic test for Britain. Next, we examine how the UAE and Oman have boosted oil export revenues despite the US-Iran
Gaza Diplomacy, Paramount-WBD, Mubadala & Syria
HEADLINES:• Kushner’s Gaza Diplomacy Faces Scrutiny Over Israeli Investment• Gulf-backed Paramount-WBD Deal Will Close by October 6• Mubadala Leads MENA Sovereign Funds With $26.2 Billion Deployed in 2026• US Removes Syria From List Banning American Arms Sales Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smash
Shorooq Co-Founder Shane Shin on How Investors Decide Who Gets Capital
Shorooq Co-Founder Shane Shin on How Investors Decide Who Gets CapitalPowered by Podeo — Listen to this episode
flydubai Flight Suspension; Etihad Man City Case; Shorooq Co-Founder Shane Shin
HEADLINES:• flydubai Suspends Israel Flights After FZ1073 Security Incident • Etihad Airways ‘Categorically Rejects’ Premier League Findings in Manchester City Case • Shorooq Co-Founder Shane Shin on How Investors Decide Who Gets Capital Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Sh
Man City Verdict, DP World’s $7B Nigeria Bet & Dubai Beauty Funding
HEADLINES:• Manchester City Says Club Is ‘Innocent’ After Guilty Verdict on Almost All 115 Charges • DP World Takes Jebel Ali Model to Nigeria With $7 Billion Port and Industrial Zone • Dubai Beauty Company Amaani Raises $5 Million to Expand AÏZA Across GCC Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0
Man City 114 Charges | Sheikh Hamdan’s Rail Ticket | ADIA’s $2.34B Deal
HEADLINES:• Man City Chairman Says Club Still ‘Confident’ After Reports of 114 Guilty Findings • Dubai Crown Prince Shares Etihad Rail Ticket on Snapchat Before Dubai-Abu Dhabi Launch • ADIA Joins $2.34 Billion Takeover of US Shopping Centre Portfolio Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smas
Eagle Hills' Vision for the Maldives, Sobha's $600M US Expansion, and Qatar Energy Extends LNG Force Majeure
In this episode of the Smashi Business Show, we explore Mohamed Alabbar's vision to transform the Maldives into a long-term residential and lifestyle hub with Eagle Hills. We then track Dubai developer Sobha Realty's $600 million entry into the US housing market across Texas and other high-growth states. Finally, we examine QatarEnergy extending its force majeure on Asian and European LNG shipment
Aramco’s $100B Gas Unit Plan, Man City Fights Premier League Ruling, and EQT Enters Abu Dhabi
In this episode of the Smashi Business Show, we analyze Saudi Aramco hiring Evercore to restructure its gas operations into a standalone $100B+ unit ahead of a potential IPO. We then break down Manchester City Chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak's open letter asserting the club's innocence following 114 reported Premier League financial breaches. Finally, we cover Swedish private equity titan EQT opening
Manchester City, Replit Atta Deal & Palestinian Sneakers
Manchester City faces a defining moment as its long running Premier League financial case puts wider questions around governance and the league’s global reputation into focus. Palestinian fashion brand Resolute RGL has raised $1.27 million after turning traditional tatreez into a growing luxury sneaker business with international ambitions. Meanwhile, $9 billion AI company Replit has acquired anal
Huda Eye Patch Gate; UAE Halts Iran Flights; Microsoft $10B Gulf Bet
HEADLINES:• Dubai Based Huda Kattan Says Brands Were ‘Screwed Over’ in Eye Patch Gate • UAE suspends flights by Iranian airlines until further notice • Microsoft Plans More Than $10 Billion Gulf Investment Through 2030 Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): ht
Katy Perry AED 400K Tickets; Bank Melli Iran; Musk Eyes Paramount
HEADLINES:• Katy Perry to Headline Atlantis Dubai NYE With Tickets Going Up to AED 400,000 • UAE Cuts Bank Melli Iran Branches Off From Iran Transactions • Paramount CEO Considers Bringing Elon Musk Into $111 Billion Warner Bros Deal Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (
Banque Misr Sanctions, Paramount’s $110B Merger, Sajwani Eyes Man United
HEADLINES:• National Bank of Egypt to Acquire Banque Misr UAE Branches After US Sanctions Threat • Paramount Clears Final Legal Hurdle for $110 Billion Warner Bros Merger • Dubai Billionaire Hussain Sajwani Linked to Manchester United Stake Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business
Saudi Ceer EVs, Amazon Istanbul Shift & Red Sea Film Festival
HEADLINES:• Saudi Crown Prince launches CEER's first electric vehicles • Amazon Shifts Regional Operations From Dubai to Istanbul • Red Sea Film Festival cancels 2026 event Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): https://aug.us/3BTU2MYPowered by Podeo — Listen
Qatar’s New Domestic Platform, QIA-$20B JPMorgan Partnership, and UAE’s $12B Maldives Deal
In this episode of the Smashi Business Show, we examine Qatar setting up "Doha Investment" to reshape and grow its $580 billion wealth fund’s domestic portfolio. We then break down the Qatar Investment Authority's upcoming $20 billion partnership with JPMorgan Asset Management spanning public and private markets. Finally, we cover UAE developer Eagle Hills planning a massive $12 billion mega-devel
Saudi Arabia Exits mBridge, EgyptAir Wins Big at Skytrax, and TMG-Roshn’s 55K Home Project
In this episode of the Smashi Business Show, we analyze Saudi Arabia’s planned withdrawal from the Beijing-led mBridge digital currency platform. We then celebrate EgyptAir’s landmark achievement at the 2026 Skytrax World Airline Awards, where it was named the World's Most Improved Airline. Finally, we break down the massive real estate deal between TMG Saudi and Roshn Group to develop over 55,000
Juffali Dubai Move, Uber Kuwait & Moonglaze Sephora
Saudi Arabia’s Juffali dynasty is shifting its investment firm from London to Dubai, Uber has launched in Kuwait, and Yara Alnamlah’s Moonglaze is appearing across Sephora billboards ahead of Saudi National Day. Today’s show looks at the movement of private wealth into the UAE, Uber’s expanding Gulf footprint and the rise of Saudi founded consumer brands.Powered by Podeo — Listen to this episode
UAE Retail Sukuk, Saudi F 35 Deal & Squatwolf vs Sydney Sweeney
HEADLINES:• UAE Opens New Five Year Retail Sukuk From AED 1,000 • US Clears Way for $24.3 Billion F 35 Sale to Saudi Arabia • Squatwolf Founder Slams Sydney Sweeney Ad Over Sexualizing Women in Sports Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): https://aug.us/3BTU2
AWS War Damage, Emaar’s $1.2B Dividend, Macklemore Fallout
HEADLINES:• AWS cannot restore Bahrain data centre, UAE data zone access • Dubai developer Emaar's board approves Dh4.4 billion special dividend for shareholders • The Giving Movement CEO Weighs In on Macklemore Fallout Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): h
Syria $200B Economy, Saudi Stadium & Al-Nassr Takeover
HEADLINES:• Syria’s Al Sharaa Targets $200 Billion Economy in Free-Market Push• Qatari Billionaire Moutaz Al-Khayyat Wins $221 Million Saudi Stadium Contract• RedBird Meets PIF to Evaluate Takeover Bid for Al-Nassr FCPowered by Podeo — Listen to this episode
Arab Media Summit 2026, DP World Fleet, Saudi Rare Earth Discovery
HEADLINES:• Arab Media Summit 2026 kicks off in Dubai • DP World is expanding its truck fleet by 40%, from 700 to 1,000 vehicles, • Saudi Arabia Discovers 110 Million Tonnes of Rare Earth Ore and Uranium Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): https://aug.us/3B
Iran Oil Threat, UAE-Iran BRICS Talks & Dubai Tourism Boom
HEADLINES:• US President: We may stay in Iran and "keep the oil" • UAE and Iran leadership meet at BRICS Summit in New Delhi • Dubai Tourism Rebounds as Visitors and Hotel Demand Surge Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): https://aug.us/3BTU2MYPowered
OpenAI Delays IPO, BRICS Calls for Restraint and Mubadala Bets on Luckin Coffee
In this episode of the Smashi Business Show, we look at why OpenAI is holding off on an IPO as Sam Altman raises concerns over AI safety. We also unpack BRICS’ call for restraint in the Middle East as regional tensions weigh on trade and energy markets, before heading to China, where Mubadala is taking a minority stake in Luckin Coffee as part of a USD 1 billion transaction.Powered by Podeo — List
Saudi Pipeline, Apple Gaza Scrutiny & Claude Weapons
Saudi Arabia shuts its East-West oil pipeline after a drone attack from Iraq, an Israeli Air Force post puts Apple’s Israel ties back under scrutiny, and Anthropic says Claude was used to help develop guided weapons in Yemen. Here’s what matters across energy, technology and regional security.Powered by Podeo — Listen to this episode
UAE’s €40B Bet, Musk’s Tunnels, UpScrolled’s Issam Hijazi
HEADLINES:• UAE Announces €40 Billion Investment Push Into Germany • Elon Musk’s The Boring Company plans 150km of tunnels in UAE, raises $3 billion • UpScrolled Founder Issam Hijazi on Palestine, Censorship and Big Tech Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday):
UAE Hormuz Red Line, Saudi Settlement Ban, Bahrain Airshow Cancelled
HEADLINES:• Saudi Arabia And Arab, Muslim States Welcome UK Ban On Israeli Settlement Goods • UAE Says Strait Of Hormuz Is A ‘Red Line’ • Bahrain Airshow Cancelled As Iran War Continues • Replit Founder Reveals How a Company Walkout Sparked a Billion-Dollar AI Turnaround Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTik
LIV Golf Bankruptcy, AD Ports Buyout & Autonomous Mobility with Ian Ohan
HEADLINES:• Saudi-Backed LIV Golf Files for Bankruptcy After PIF Pulls Funding • L’imad unit has satisfied nearly all conditions to take AD Ports private • Freely Founder Ian Ohan on Building the Infrastructure for Autonomous Mobility Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show
Adidas Backlash, ADNOC Dangote Deal & Sajwani Data Centres
HEADLINES:• Adidas Arabia Apologizes After Single Shoe Ad Featuring Ex-Israeli Soldier• ADNOC Eyes Stake in Dangote Refinery Ahead of $1.6 Billion IPO: Bloomberg • Hussain Sajwani Opens Türkiye Data Centre With Vodafone Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): https:
Saudi Nuclear Deal, G42 AI Push & Mubadala’s $3B Bet
HEADLINES:• Saudi Nuclear Deal Could Open Door To Uranium Enrichment Of Nearly 20%• G42 Explores Selling Majority Stake To US Companies Amid AI Chip Push• Mubadala Capital Joins $3 Billion Crusoe Funding Round At $30 Billion ValuationNewsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): ht
Hormuz Escalation, Egypt’s $2.1B Refining Push, and HUMAIN’s IPO Strategy
In this episode of the Smashi Business Show, we examine Iran's targeted strikes against oil tankers and U.S. naval assets in the Strait of Hormuz following American attacks. We then look at Egypt's $2.1 billion plan to build two fuel oil conversion complexes in Suez to boost local diesel production and curb imports. Finally, we break down how Saudi AI firm HUMAIN, backed by PIF, is assembling an e
Saudi Arms Sale, Turkish Bank Sanctions & Lebanon AuditSaudi Arms Sale, Turkish Bank Sanctions & Lebanon Audit
The US approves a proposed $5 billion arms package for Saudi Arabia as the Kingdom faces heightened regional threats. Washington also sanctions Turkey’s Golden Global Bank over alleged Iran-linked transactions, while the lender denies the accusations and prepares legal action. In Lebanon, Alvarez & Marsal begins a new forensic audit of Banque du Liban, examining crisis-era foreign asset operat
HUMAIN’s Arabic.AI Bet, Adidas Backlash, Dubai Sotheby’s $119M Lawsuit
HEADLINES:• Saudi AI Firm HUMAIN Invests in Nour Al Hassan’s Arabic.AI • Adidas Faces Backlash Over Campaign Featuring Former Israeli Soldier • Dubai Sotheby’s Faces $119 Million Lawsuit Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): https://aug.us/3BTU2MYPowered by P
Replit Goes Global, ADNOC Ruwais & Kuwait Wealth Fund
HEADLINES:• Replit Opens First International Office in London After Hitting $9 Billion Valuation • ADNOC’s Ruwais Refinery Returns to Full Capacity After Iran War Hit • Kuwait Decree Allows Government to Borrow From Wealth Fund Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (
Saudi Loans, Al Hilal Deal & Adam Neumann’s UAE Comeback
HEADLINES:• Prince Alwaleed’s Kingdom Holding Completes $224 Million Deal for 70% of Al Hilal• Saudi Arabia in preliminary talks to borrow $8B from banks: Report• Former WeWork CEO Adam Neumann Launches Flow in UAE With Major Hiring PushPowered by Podeo — Listen to this episode
Saudi AI Boom, LIV Golf Bankruptcy & UAE’s Syria Investment
HEADLINES:• LEAP 2026 Opens With $15 Billion AI Push as Saudi Arabia Lands Global Tech Deals • LIV Golf prepares for bankruptcy filing in September, FT reports • UAE’s Arada Plans $7 Billion Syria Development in First Investment Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-F
Brent Crude, Banque Misr, Roblox Riyadh & Huda Beauty x Cardi B
HEADLINES:• Brent crude surges back above $90 as US-Iran strikes resume • Banque Misr UAE branches continue business as usual despite US warning • Roblox is establishing its MENA regional headquarters in Riyadh • Huda Beauty and global superstar Cardi B have officially unveiled their new collaboration Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram:
UAE Central Bank Probes Banque Misr, Gaza Fund Allegations Refuted, and Dubai Airports' Resilience
In this episode of the Smashi Business Show, we examine the UAE Central Bank's urgent investigation into Banque Misr branches following U.S. money laundering warnings. We then look at the Board of Peace’s firm denial regarding the alleged misuse of Gaza reconstruction funds. Finally, we discuss Dubai Airports’ operational recovery, zero-layoff policy, and updated passenger forecasts in the wake of
New Murabba, Banque Misr Sanctions & Taco Bell UAE
Saudi Arabia appoints PIF veteran Sabah Barakat to lead New Murabba as the kingdom elevates Saudi executives across major institutions. Washington targets Banque Misr’s UAE branches in the first measure since Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent declared an “economic D-Day” against Iran. And Mohamed Alabbar-led Americana Restaurants signs an exclusive agreement to bring Taco Bell back to the UAE after
Trump Crypto Bank, Mina Creamery & Dubai Airports
A UAE-backed entity emerges as a major shareholder behind World Liberty Financial’s planned crypto bank, Emirati entrepreneur Rihab Al Gurg builds Mina Creamery, and Dubai Airports avoids layoffs despite a sharp drop in passenger traffic.Powered by Podeo — Listen to this episode
Saudi AI Fortunes, Shein’s $27B Valuation & Khamas Hospitality
HEADLINES:• Two Saudi Brothers Just Hit a $1.4 Billion Fortune as Humain Deal Expands • Mubadala in Line for Payout as Shein’s Valuation Drops to $27 Billion • Meet Mr Pratik Kachroo, Executive Director at Khamas Hospitality Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Frida
Abu Dhabi GP, ADNOC Ship-Buying & Blank Street Founders
HEADLINES:• AED1.4B Economic Driver: Abu Dhabi GP Gets Green Light • ADNOC’s Ship-Buying Spree Reaches $2.7 Billion • Blank Street Raises $75 Million to Fuel Expansion Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): https://aug.us/3BTU2MYPowered by Podeo — Listen to th
Syria Terror Delisting, Saudi Dragon Ball Z Park & Pavel Durov’s France Probe
HEADLINES:• US removes Syria from 'state sponsor of terrorism' list • Saudi Arabia to Finance €6 Billion Dragon Ball Z Theme Park Near Paris • Pavel Durov Questions Political Motives in Two-Year French Probe Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): https:/
Oil Prices, Iran Sanctions, Binance UAE Inquiry & Saudi-France Ties
HEADLINES:• Oil Prices Slide Ahead of New US Sanctions on Iran• Binance Says Employees Cleared After UAE Inquiry • MBS in France as Saudi Arabia and France Deepen Strategic Business Ties Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): https://aug.us/3BTU2MYPowered by Podeo
UAE-Russia Trade Grows as Qatar Cuts Spending and Iran Eyes a Way Out of War
In this episode of The Smashi Business Show, we look at the UAE-Russia trade and investment agreement coming into effect as the Emirates pushes ahead with its global trade ambitions. We then turn to Qatar, where the regional conflict is putting pressure on government spending and energy revenues. Finally, we examine Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian’s defense of the US memorandum and why he sees
Dubai's Rebound, Qatar's Squeeze, and the $100M Race for Arabic Music Rights
In this episode of the Smashi Business Show, we break down four stories reshaping the region's economy. Dubai's property market shows remarkable resilience, bouncing back to over 90% of normal transaction volumes just six weeks after regional tensions flared. Huda Beauty and Dubai burger joint DIME team up for a bold, unconventional PR campaign that's rewriting the marketing playbook. Qatar's econ
Disney Abu Dhabi, Dubai’s AED111B Boom & Toyota Demolition
HEADLINES:• Disney Reveals Why Abu Dhabi Was Chosen for Its New Theme Park• Dubai Completes AED111 Billion In Real Estate Projects In First Half Of 2026• Dubai’s Iconic Toyota Building to Be Demolished in 2027 Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): https://aug.us/3BTU2M
Trump-Iran Tensions, Saudi Football, UK-Israel Row & UAE Airfares
HEADLINES:• Trump Threatens “Economic D-Day” Against Iran, Puts China in Focus • Saudi Arabia Clears Path for Private Investment in Top Football Clubs • UK Condemns Israeli E1 Settlement Tender, Warns of Sanctions • UAE Airfares Could Stay High Through 2026 Despite Ceasefire Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTikto
UAE-Iran Trade Suspension, Dubai Hotel Market & Saudi-UAE Bank Transfers
HEADLINES:• UAE Suspends Trade And Financial Transactions With Iran • Dubai Hotel Market Could Recover In Q4, But Luxury Supply Adds Pressure • Saudi Arabia And UAE Deny Problems With Cross-Border Bank Transfers Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): htt
Habtoor Slams Ben-Gvir, Saudi Oil Through Hormuz & Home Bakery Expansion
HEADLINES:• UAE Billionaire Habtoor Slams Ben-Gvir Over Call to Kill ‘30 to 40’ Palestinians Nightly• Saudi Arabia Offers Oil Near Oman as Aramco May Be Shuttling Crude Through Hormuz • Emirati Home Bakery Founder Hind Al Mulla Eyes India, London and US Expansion Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV
Abu Dhabi AD Ports, Arabic AI & Saudi Pro League Spending
HEADLINES:• Abu Dhabi Moves To Take AD Ports Private • MBZUAI Finds Major Gap In Arabic AI Understanding • Saudi Pro League Cuts Spending As Rival Leagues Cash In Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): https://aug.us/3BTU2MYPowered by Podeo — Listen to this ep
Gulf-backed Anthropic’s $2T IPO, Abu Dhabi’s AI Drug Discovery & Aramco Stadium Nears Opening
On today’s Smashi Business Show, we look at three major stories shaping the Gulf’s growing role in technology, healthcare and sports. Anthropic could target a $2 trillion IPO, potentially making it the biggest listing in history, with Abu Dhabi’s MGX and Qatar’s QIA among its investors. We then head to Abu Dhabi, where biotech company Insilico Medicine has used AI and local computing infrastructur
Saudi PIF Reveals $26.3B SpaceX Stake, DP World Plans $3B Investment and Kushner Heads to Israel and Egypt
Saudi PIF Reveals $26.3B SpaceX Stake, DP World Plans $3B Investment and Kushner Heads to Israel and EgyptPowered by Podeo — Listen to this episode
ADNOC Hormuz Attacks & CFI’s $5.34 Trillion Trading Record
HEADLINES:• Two UAE Operated ADNOC Vessels Attacked in Strait of Hormuz; No Injuries • CFI CEO Ziad Melhem on Record $5.34 Trillion Trading Volume and the Future of AI Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): https://aug.us/3BTU2MYPowered by Podeo — Listen to this ep
Sephora Israel, Lakers Abu Dhabi Tie-Up & Mubadala’s Aldar Stake
HEADLINES:• Sephora Denies Israel Store Launch, Confirms Products Will Be Sold Through Glam42• The Surprising Abu Dhabi Tie-Up in the $12.5 Billion Lakers Acquisition• Mubadala Raises Stake in Aldar Properties to 28%Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): https://aug.us/3BTU2
Turki Al-Sheikh, UAE Music Fees & DMCC CEO Ahmed Bin Sulayem
HEADLINES:• ADNOC Gas Eyes LNG Export Hub Beyond Strait of Hormuz• Lebanese-Founded Kalshi Adopts Nasdaq Surveillance Platform• DP World Expands Western Europe Logistics NetworkPowered by Podeo — Listen to this episode
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