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
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/3BTU2MY
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.
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.
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/3BTU2MY
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 Push
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.
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/3BTU2MY
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/3BTU2MY
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/3BTU2MY
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 Egypt
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/3BTU2MY
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 Network
ADNOC Gas, Kalshi Nasdaq & DP World
HEADLINES:• ADNOC Gas Eyes LNG Export Hub Beyond Strait of Hormuz • Lebanese-Founded Kalshi Adopts Nasdaq Surveillance Platform • DP World Expands Western Europe Logistics Network Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): https://aug.us/3BTU2MY
Netanyahu, Gaza Plan, Sydney Near-Crash & Madinah Retail Boom
HEADLINES:• Netanyahu Rejects Trump’s Gaza Plan as Israel Faces Pressure to Withdraw • A Jetstar and Qatar Airways plane nearly collided on the ground at Sydney Airport • Dubai-based Apparel Group Bets Big on Madinah With 24-Brand Retail and Dining Push Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Sm
Hormuz Deal, Aramco Fire and Syria’s $100M World Bank Grant
In this episode of The Smashi Business Show, we look at Iran’s talks with Oman over a temporary maritime route through the Strait of Hormuz, while Tehran sets conditions for reopening the waterway. We also cover a fire at Aramco’s Jazan refinery and the latest attacks affecting Saudi energy infrastructure. Finally, we look at Syria’s new $100 million World Bank grant and its plans to secure more d
US Sanctions Iran Crypto Network; Peekabox Hits No. 1; Kalanick Unveils NAMAA
The US tightens sanctions on an alleged Iranian crypto network, Dubai startup Peekabox reaches the top of the UAE App Store without paid advertising, and Travis Kalanick rebrands his Gulf food infrastructure business as NAMAA following Atoms' $1.7 billion funding round. We break down what these developments mean for technology, startups and investment across the region.
Trump Tower, Paramount Deal & Arsenal Emirates
HEADLINES:• UK Clears Gulf Backed Paramount's $111 Billion Warner Bros. Discovery Deal• Dubai's $1 Billion Trump Tower Moves Forward With Major Construction Contract • Arsenal and Emirates renew landmark partnership Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): https://au
Mubadala in Africa, Syria Tourism & IHC Profits
HEADLINES:• Moove Hits $2.1 Billion Valuation in Mubadala-Led Fundraising• Syria's Tourism Boom Could Generate Up to $10 Billion in 2026• IHC Profit Triples as Real Estate, Construction Drive Growth
Saudi Arabia Buys EA, Telegram Row & Satish Sanpal
HEADLINES:• Saudi Arabia just completed its $55 billion purchase of gaming giant EA.• Pavel Durov Blames 'Extortionists' After Apple Removes Telegram From App Store • UAE-Based Entrepreneur Satish Sanpal Denies Reports of Frozen Assets Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon
Telegram Ban, Careem Losses & $36B Kalshi Lawsuit
HEADLINES:• Apple Briefly Removes Telegram From App Store Over Abuse Content • Careem's Losses Widen as e& Hands Control Back to Uber • New York Seeks $36 Billion From Lebanese-Founded Kalshi in Gambling Lawsuit Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): https
Oil Prices, EA Saudi Deal & Red Sea Shipping Crisis
HEADLINES:• Oil Prices Slide As US-Iran Peace Talks Raise Hopes For Hormuz Reopening • Saudi Arabia Set To Take Majority Control Of Gaming Giant Electronic Arts • Houthis Deny Red Sea Shipping Fees Plan As Tanker Traffic Slows At Bab El-MandebNewsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Sh
Lebanon's Banking Shake-Up, Kuwait's Freelance Pause & Dubai's Wealth Boom
the arrest of former Lebanon central bank governor Riad Salameh, Kuwait's temporary suspension of new freelance business licenses, and Dubai's rise to more than 81,000 millionaires as it cements its position as one of the world's fastest-growing wealth hubs.
Infantino Retreats, Iran's $4B Crypto Network & Kalshi's Legal Showdown
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has abandoned a controversial $20 billion World Cup investment plan after a revolt led by football's biggest governing bodies. Meanwhile, a Reuters investigation has uncovered an alleged $4 billion Iranian gambling network that moved funds through a Dubai-linked cryptocurrency exchange, while New York has sued Lebanese-founded prediction market giant Kalshi, accusin
Pavel Durov, Trump's Gaza Plan & Saudi Vision 2030
HEADLINES:• ‘Who Can Ban Whom?’: Telegram CEO Pavel Durov Hits Back at Russia's 'Terrorist' Label• Jared Kushner Says 'More Work Remains' After Trump's Gaza Peace Announcement• Saudi Arabia Seeks to Host the G20 Summit in 2030 Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): http
Telegram Terror Charges, Lebanon Lawsuit & Zamalek Investment
HEADLINES:• Russia Just Filed Terrorism-Related Charges Against Telegram Founder Pavel Durov• Lebanese Lawyers Sue Banker Antoun Sehnaoui After Dinner With Benjamin Netanyahu • UAE Billionaire Khalaf Al Habtoor Eyes $59 Million Investment in Egypt's Zamalek
Lucid Investment, Netflix Six Kings Slam & G42-Nvidia Alliance
HEADLINES:• Saudi Prince Alwaleed Just Bought a 5% Stake in EV Maker Lucid for $129.5 Million • Netflix Will Stream Saudi Arabia's Richest Tennis Tournament This October • UAE's G42 joins Open Secure AI Alliance started by Nvidia Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-
Saudi Football, Blackstone Kuwait & the $58M Bar Works Scandal
HEADLINES:• PIF Moves to Tackle Al-Nassr's $213 Million Debt Crisis • Blackstone Opens Kuwait Office After $16 Billion Infrastructure Deal • Bar Works Fraudster Ordered to Repay $58 Million After Scamming UAE Investors Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Frida
Trump's Nuclear Deal Twist, UAE-Canada CEPA & Mohamed Alabbar
HEADLINES:• Riyadh Stays Silent as Trump Adds Last-Minute Condition to Nuclear Deal • Kalshi Threatens Netflix Over 'Misleading' Prediction Market Documentary Trailer • UAE, Canada Complete Record-Breaking CEPA Talks as Trade Ties Deepen • Egyptian Billionaire Naguib Sawiris has defended UAE's Mohamed AlAbbar Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUIns
Trump’s Saudi Nuclear Conditions, Kuwait’s $16B Pipeline Deal, and Iraq-Syria Energy Corridors
In this episode of the Smashi Business Show, we examine President Donald Trump tying a civil nuclear deal with Saudi Arabia directly to the Abraham Accords. We then break down a historic $16 billion foreign investment in Kuwait's oil pipeline network by Blackstone, KKR, and Brookfield. Finally, we cover Iraq's strategic decision to construct new Mediterranean export pipelines through Syria alongsi
Jeddah Tower, Kuwait's $16B Deal & Kalshi vs Netflix
Saudi Arabia's tallest ambition is rising again as Prince Alwaleed bin Talal confirms Jeddah Tower has reached another major construction milestone. Kuwait signs the largest foreign direct investment in its history with a $16 billion pipeline deal involving Blackstone, Brookfield and KKR. Plus, prediction market giant Kalshi, founded by Lebanese entrepreneur Tarek Mansour, takes on Netflix over cl
Iran Warning, DP World Expansion & Lebanon Golden Visa
HEADLINES:• UAE Billionaire Al Habtoor Urges Iran to Apologise, Warns Gulf Will Bear Cost of War • DP World to Build Two New UAE Terminals Outside Strait of Hormuz • Lebanon Proposes $1 Million Golden Visa for Tax Residency Newsletter: https://aug.us/4fZIDusWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQSmashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): https://aug.us/3BTU2MY
Iraq $200B Energy Deals, Pakistan Aid, Emirates Boeing & Elon Musk Warning
HEADLINES:• Iraq Secures $200 Billion in Energy Deals, Seeks Higher OPEC Oil Quota • Pakistan Seeks $10 Billion US Lifeline After Saudi Rescue Replenished Its Reserves • Emirates' Tim Clark Draws “Line in the Sand” Over Boeing 777X Delays • Ray Dalio Warned Elon Musk Against Betting Everything On Mars Newsletter: https://aug.us/4fZIDusWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram:
Saudi Nuclear Deal, Bab al Mandab & MGX's $40B AI Bet
HEADLINES:• Trump Approves 30 Year Saudi Nuclear Deal Worth Tens of Billions• After Hormuz, the US Iran Conflict Shifts to Bab al Mandab • Abu Dhabi's MGX Joins $40 Billion Acquisition of AI Data Center Giant Aligned Newsletter: https://aug.us/4fZIDusWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQSmashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): https://aug.us/3BTU2MY
$110B Paramount Deal, PIF TAWAL & Dubai Airports
HEADLINES:• US Judge Pauses Gulf Backed $110 Billion Paramount Warner Bros. Deal • PIF Backed TAWAL Eyes Multibillion Dollar Mobily Towers Deal • Dubai Airports Near Full Capacity Despite US Iran Tensions, CEO Says • ADNOC Distribution Strategy Chief on Its $1 Billion South Africa Expansion Newsletter: https://aug.us/4fZIDusWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug
Spain's World Cup Glory, Saudi Football & UAE Economy Explained
HEADLINES:• Spain Are World Champions Again: Yamal Makes History as FIFA’s $13B Tournament Delivers• Saudi Football’s Billion-Dollar Gamble Faces a New Test: Fixing Governance • IMF Backs UAE Economy Despite US-Israel-Iran War — But Flags One Risk
UAE Trade Hits Record High | Dubai's Transport Expansion | Iraq Reshapes Oil Export Routes
The UAE's non-oil foreign trade reaches a record AED 1.937 trillion as exports continue to climb. We also look at Dubai's ambitious plans to expand public transport and sustainable mobility, alongside Iraq's move to redirect fuel exports through Syria as regional energy routes continue to evolve.
Saudi’s $55B EA Bet, Iraq’s Starlink Deal & Bin Sulayem’s Malaysia Move
Saudi Arabia moves closer to a $55 billion takeover of gaming giant Electronic Arts, Iraq signs a landmark agreement with Starlink as part of a broader investment package with United States companies, and Malaysia responds after former DP World chairman Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem takes the helm at MMC Port Holdings. We break down what happened, why it matters and what these developments could mean f
Uber Talabat Deal, G42 US Investors & EDGE Brazil Acquisition
HEADLINES:• Uber to buy Talabat owner Delivery Hero in $14.8 billion deal• WSJ: G42 Considers Selling Stake to US Investors• EDGE to acquire 100% stake in Brazilian Aerospace Engineering Firm AKAERNewsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): https://aug.us/3BTU2MY
UAE Business: Bin Sulayem, Alabbar & AI
HEADLINES:• Former DP World Chairman Bin Sulayem Takes Over Malaysia Port Giant• Alabbar Says New Syria Development Company Will Be Majority-Owned by Syrians• UAE AI Startup Algebra AI Raises $7M to Target 30,000 GCC Businesses Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): htt
Lucid Bankruptcy Claims; Abu Dhabi $300B Fund; Hormuz Fee
HEADLINES:• Saudi PIF-Backed Lucid Denies Bankruptcy Report, Issues Cease-and-Desist• Abu Dhabi Revamps $300 Billion L'imad Fund to Drive Global Dealmaking• Trump Drops 20% Fee for Hormuz Cargo After Gulf Pressure
Iran Hormuz Attack, Dubai Port & Egypt World Cup Bonus
HEADLINES:• Iranian missiles strike 2 UAE tankers in Hormuz, killing one crew member: MOD• Dubai plans new port to bypass Strait of Hormuz• Naguib Sawiris Rewards Egypt World Cup Squad With EGP 1M EachNewsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): https://aug.us/3BTU2MY
Strait of Hormuz Tensions, UAE Investment & Yusuff Ali
HEADLINES:• Ships Cross Strait of Hormuz in Secret as US-Iran Conflict Escalates• Abu Dhabi Investment Council Reportedly Commits $1 Billion to Deem Global• UAE Billionaire Yusuff Ali Pays Tribute to Qatar’s Late Father Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al ThaniNewsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Busine
Qatar Blocks VW-Israel Deal, US-Iran Escalation in the Gulf, and Iraq’s OPEC Stance
In this episode of the Smashi Business Show, we investigate Qatar's sovereign wealth fund vetoing a Volkswagen defense joint venture with Israel's Rafael. We then analyze the severe military escalation in the Gulf as US and Iranian forces exchange missile strikes following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Finally, we look at global energy markets as Iraq's Prime Minister clarifies Baghdad's st
Record UAE Oil, e&'s Vodafone Exit, US AI Chip Deal & Egypt's World Cup Reward
On today's episode of The Smashi Business Show, Abdul Majid Awan breaks down the biggest stories shaping the UAE and the region. Abu Dhabi's oil production hits a record 4.1 million barrels per day following its OPEC exit, while telecom giant e& sends its shares soaring after offloading its $5.95 billion Vodafone stake. The US eases export restrictions, unlocking access to advanced AI chips fo
Saudi-UAE Border Trade, Dubai Chocolate & Abu Dhabi Studio Deal
HEADLINES:• Saudi Arabia Denies UAE Border Trade Delays Amid Reports of Growing Disruption • Dubai Chocolate' Creators Say They Never Named the Global Food Trend • Abu Dhabi Deal Creates World's Largest Independent Studio Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday):
Oil Prices Surge, Iran Strikes, Saudi Gaming Boom & Deutsche Bank
HEADLINES:• Oil Prices Rise As Fresh US Strikes On Iran Raise Strait Of Hormuz Fears • Deutsche Bank Secures Saudi Regional HQ Licence To Expand Riyadh Presence • Saudi Arabia’s $7 Billion Gaming Bet Takes Center Stage As Esports World Cup Begins Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Bu
ADNOC $1BN Deal, Canada-UAE Investment & QIA vs Byju's
HEADLINES:• Adnoc Distribution to acquire Shell South Africa’s downstream business • Canada tells UAE it is not ready for its $70 billion investment • QIA's Byju's Pursuit Signals Tougher Gulf Wealth Fund Strategy
Emaar's $54B Dubai Project, Mubadala Credit Business & OCI Buyout
HEADLINES:• Emaar's Unnamed $54 Billion Mega Project Likely to Be Dubai Estate: AGBI • Mubadala Opens $25 Billion Credit Business to Outside Investors • Nassef Sawiris Moves Closer to Taking OCI Global Private translate to arabic
Saudi's $135M Hijaz Eye, Iran-Qatar Trade & OSN's Anghami Buyout
HEADLINES:• Saudi Arabia Seeks Private Investors For Medina’s $135 Million Hijaz Eye Project • Iran, Qatar Resume Maritime Trade After Five-Month Suspension • OSN Moves To Take Anghami Private With $3.39-Per-Share Offer
Fanatics Enters Abu Dhabi, Tabby’s New SAMA Licences, and OSN’s Move to Take Anghami Private
In this episode of the Smashi Business Show, we analyze Michael Rubin’s Fanatics making its first international bet via a joint venture with Abu Dhabi's Momentum Group. We then dive into Saudi Arabia's fintech boom as Tabby secures crucial consumer and SME finance licences from SAMA. Finally, we break down OSN Streaming's preliminary cash proposal to acquire all remaining shares of Anghami in a ma
Saudi Backed Lucid Shakeup, Qatar Pursues Byju Founder and Emaar $54bn Mega Project Takes Shape
Saudi backed Lucid Motors continues its executive overhaul under new CEO Silvio Napoli, Qatar Investment Authority doubles down on its legal battle with Byju founder Byju Raveendran, and reports suggest Emaar's long awaited AED200 billion mega development could finally be unveiled as Dubai Estate. Plus, why these stories reflect a broader shift in how Gulf investors are protecting capital and shap
$11.5B Adani-UAE Deal, $7B JPMorgan Funding & FIFA World Cup Ads
HEADLINES:• Kalshi Just Joined FIFA World Cup Ads After ADI Predictstreet Deal at a Discount • Qatari Syrian Billionaires Just Secured $7 Billion From JPMorgan and Gulf Banks • Adani Group and Abu Dhabi IHC Just Announced an $11.5 Billion India Mega Project Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0
MGX AI Fund, Prada and Saint Levant, Gulf Sovereign Wealth Funds
HEADLINES:• Abu Dhabi AI Giant MGX Just Closed a $49 Billion Fund • Dubai Beauty Billionaire Huda Kattan Backs Saint Levant After Prada Appointment• Gulf Sovereign Wealth Funds Just Had Their Biggest Ever First Half Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): https://au
Saudi PIF Profit Soars, Emirates NBD-HSBC Deal & ADNOC’s $1B Acquisition
HEADLINES:• Saudi PIF More Than Doubles 2025 Net Profit To $17.3 Billion • Kuwait's Zain To Invest $1.5 Billion In Syria Telecom Expansion • Emirates NBD in Talks to Acquire HSBC’s Turkey Operations • ADNOC Set To Buy Shell’s South Africa Fuel Stations In $1 Billion Deal translate to emarati arabic Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: htt
Mubadala Disneyland Bid; Trump Jr Kalshi; Syria Reconstruction
HEADLINES:• Qatari Syrian Billionaire Unveils Long Planned Return to Syria• Mubadala Capital Bids $1.1 Billion For Disneyland Paris Resort Operator• Donald Trump Jr. Could See $300K Kalshi Equity Grow Into Millions Ahead of Potential IPO Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Fr
Oil Prices, Iran-US Truce, UAE Trade Push & Saudi Aramco Helicopter Crash
HEADLINES:• Oil pares gains as US and Iran pause attacks ahead of Hormuz talks • PIF strategy shifts sentiment as coverage turns more positive after rollout• UAE moves closer to CPTPP talks as trade expansion push accelerates • Saudi Aramco helicopter crash near Ras Tanura kills 14 as investigation begins Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstag
GCC Clarifies Iran Reconstruction Rumors, PIF Seeks EU Nod for EA, and Newcastle’s Stadium Funding Quest
In this episode of the Smashi Business Show, we address the GCC's official stance denying rumors of a $300 billion Iran reconstruction fund. We then shift to Europe, where Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund seeks key EU antitrust and subsidy clearances to finalize its massive $55 billion acquisition of Electronic Arts. Finally, we explore Newcastle United's recent exploratory talks with Arctos
