The Smashi Business Show

Emaar Megaproject; Kalshi World Cup Deal; Al Haboob Founders Jun 12, 2026 2718 HEADLINES:• Emaar just launched a Dh200 billion megaproject in Dubai for 150,000 residents• The $22 billion prediction market Kalshi just became a World Cup sponsor of Argentina• How two Saudis turned camel racing into a professional sports franchiseNewsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show

Saudi Lebanon Trade Reopens; SpaceX IPO; FII New CEO Jun 11, 2026 2144 HEADLINES:• Saudi Arabia lifts five year Lebanon import ban as Riyadh backs Beirut reforms • SpaceX IPO Draws Billions in Orders From Middle East Funds • FII appoints Princess Maha Al Saud as CEO ahead of Rome summit Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): http

Emirates Renews Real Madrid, Meta Court Action, Mubadala Fast Food Play Jun 10, 2026 2495 HEADLINES:• Real Madrid land €100 million-a-year Emirates sponsorship deal• Meta Says Israeli Spyware Firm Targeted WhatsApp Users Again• Mubadala Is Reportedly Exploring a €3 Billion Deal for Burger King Operator in Spain and PortugalNewsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): h

Talabat Takeover Battle, Iranian Assets and UAE Expansion in Africa Jun 9, 2026 2796 HEADLINES:• Saudi Ninja Founder Ebrahim Al Jassim Is Trying to Acquire HungerStation and Parts of Talabat: FT• US Is Considering Using Iranian Assets to Pay for Gulf Attack Damage• UAE company to fund $2bn New Botswana City Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): https:/

NEOM Cuts, UAE $1.4T US Investment Plan & Paramount-Warner Deal Jun 8, 2026 1255 HEADLINES:• Saudi Arabia faces $16 billion bill to scale back parts of NEOM: Semafor• UAE says $1.4 trillion US investment plan is ahead of schedule• US states prepare antitrust challenge as Gulf-backed $110B Paramount–Warner deal faces scrutiny Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show

Ronaldo $2B Rich; Iran's Assets for Gulf Repair; No Deal with Israeli Club; Riyadh Air Jun 7, 2026 199 Today’s Smashi Business Show brings you four global stories shaping markets, sport, aviation, and geopolitics. Cristiano Ronaldo becomes the first active athlete to surpass $2 billion in career earnings, driven by Saudi contracts and global investments. Rising tensions in the Middle East escalate as the U.S. considers redirecting Iranian assets amid ongoing regional conflict and fragile ceasefire

$1.7 Billion Sphere Abu Dhabi, Dubai Property Recovering & Naguib's Bold Prediction Jun 6, 2026 211 Is the UAE becoming the world's safest investment destination? In today's Smashi Business Show, Abdul Majid Awan breaks down Abu Dhabi's massive $1.7 billion Sphere project, why Dubai's real estate market could be heading for a major consolidation, and why billionaire investor Naguib Sawiris says he is "doubling down" on the UAE despite growing global uncertainty. Plus, we examine the shocking HSB

State Street Oman, Saudi PIF & Manchester United Jun 5, 2026 1259 HEADLINES:• State Street is Deepening its Gulf Presence With Oman Expansion Plan• Saudi PIF is Actively Replacing Foreign Executives With Local Talent in Strategic Shift: FT• Glazers’ sale debate at Manchester United heats up as Qatar bidder rules out return• Man City Leadership Has 'Winning' Mentality: Chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak  Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug

SpaceX $75B IPO, Gulf Shipping & Abu Dhabi Jun 4, 2026 1305 HEADLINES:• SpaceX Targets Record-Breaking $75B IPO, Set to Eclipse Aramco Listing• Berenjak Expands to Abu Dhabi Amid Regional Conflict and Gulf Hospitality Push• Greek shipping tycoon Marinakis Says Shipowners Could Accept Hormuz Transit Fees• 20,000 Seafarers Remain Stranded in Gulf Despite CeasefireNewsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihl

UpScrolled Banned; IAEA Praises UAE; Alabbar Takes Over Jun 3, 2026 2566 HEADLINES:• UpScrolled Has Just Been Banned In Saudi Arabia• IAEA Chief Says Barakah Attack Tested UAE Nuclear Safety Systems• Mohamed Alabbar Takes Direct Control Of Emaar Misr After CEO Exit

Sky-IMI Split, IFFCO Bidding Interest, e& Cashes Out of Careem Jun 2, 2026 2406 HEADLINES:• Former Sky News Arabia boss slams Guardian reporting on Sky UAE exit• Alabbar and IHC show interest in debt-hit IFFCO• e& sells 12.5% Careem stake to Uber in $100 million dealNewsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): https://aug.us/3BTU2MY

PSG's $5B Rise, SpaceX IPO Buzz, UAE AI Predicts Heatwaves Jun 1, 2026 1316 HEADLINES:• PSG turns from football gamble to $5 billion global asset machine • Kingdom Holding jumps as SpaceX stake re-rates the stock ahead of IPO • UAE scientists build AI system that predicts heatwaves with 96% accuracy before they hit

UAE Growth Surges, Dubai's Leadership Advantage & PSG's $5 Billion Business Transformation May 31, 2026 362 we explore the UAE’s strong 6.2% economic growth in 2025, the leadership approach that continues to make Dubai a magnet for entrepreneurs and investors, and how Qatar transformed PSG from a $100 million football club into a global sports brand worth over $5 billion.

Iran Reconstruction Plan, Riyadh Air Expansion and Qatar Hormuz Position May 30, 2026 177 A proposed $300 billion reconstruction programme for Iran, Saudi Arabia push to build Riyadh Air despite regional tensions, and Qatar latest position on Strait of Hormuz transit fees. Here are the three stories shaping the region today.

MGX Winner in Anthropic-OpenAI race; Talabat & HungerStation in Focus; Made in Saudi Drones May 29, 2026 254 From AI megadeals to food delivery consolidation and a new wave of defense manufacturing, today’s stories highlight how capital, technology, and power are converging across the US, Europe, and the Gulf. Anthropic’s rise above OpenAI marks a reshaping of the global AI hierarchy, but Abu Dhabi’s quiet cross-investments tell an even bigger story. Meanwhile, Uber’s push for Delivery Hero puts Talabat

Calo Retreats From Britain; Iran Reconnects After Blackout; Kalshi Funding Frenzy May 28, 2026 258 Calo shuts down its UK operations despite IPO ambitions, Iran reconnects after an 88 day internet blackout, and Kalshi pushes toward a $22 billion valuation as prediction markets surge across America.

Gaza Aid Delays, Mumtalakat Earnings, UAE Trade Resilience, Mubadala’s $2B Sale May 27, 2026 328 On today’s episode of the Smashi Business Show, Abdul Majid Awan breaks down four major stories shaping business across the region. We look at why the Trump-backed Gaza reconstruction board remains stalled despite billions in pledges, Bahrain’s Mumtalakat reporting an 87 percent jump in earnings driven by McLaren and Alba, the UAE’s trade response to regional disruption as outlined by Dr. Thani Al

MGX's AI Biotech Play and Saudi Capital in Italian Luxury Hotels and Syria’s New Entrepreneurship Frontier May 26, 2026 332 In this episode, we break down Abu Dhabi-backed MGX’s entry into Isomorphic Labs' $2.1 billion funding round to revolutionize AI-driven drug discovery. We also track the Saudi El-Khereiji family’s multi-million dollar stake in Italy's luxury hospitality group, Barletta, and analyze the strategic launch of the Syrian Youth and Entrepreneurs Council designed to economically empower a resilient new g

US-Iran Deal Talks, Manchester City Reset & Gulf Food Future May 25, 2026 1024 HEADLINES:• Oil Falls as US-Iran Talks Ease Supply Fears, but Trump Cautions Against Rushing Deal • Guardiola Exit Marks New Era for Abu Dhabi-Owned Manchester City • Pure Harvest CEO Sees Food Security as Gulf’s Next Strategic Frontier

NEOM Delays; Abu Dhabi Sphere; Qatar Airways Fallout May 24, 2026 175 Saudi Arabia slows down parts of NEOM as capital shifts toward ports and AI infrastructure, Abu Dhabi doubles down on entertainment with a $1.7 billion Sphere project, and Qatar Airways faces mounting fallout from the Iran war after reportedly suspending staff bonuses. Gulf economies are increasingly being reshaped by logistics, tourism and geopolitical disruption.

Saudi Logistics Push; Qatar IPO Revival; Dubai Mogul Lawsuit May 23, 2026 285 Saudi Arabia weighs creating a logistics giant to rival DP World, Qatar billionaire-backed Estithmar Holding explores a rare Doha IPO with Rothschild, and Dubai-based media mogul Richard Desmond faces a £40 million-plus legal fallout after losing a UK lottery lawsuit. Gulf business really decided subtlety was overrated this week.

Dubai Relief Package, Saudi Spending Freeze & Noon AI Layoffs May 22, 2026 1670 HEADLINES:• Dubai Crown Prince just approved a $408 million economic relief package • Saudi Arabia Freezes Consultancy Payments as Iran War Pressures State Spending • Alabbar Says Noon Will Cut Staff by 50% Within Three Months

UAE Hormuz Pipeline, Microsoft Israel Exit & Saudi AI Theme Parks May 21, 2026 1887 HEADLINES:• UAE Oil Pipeline Bypassing Strait of Hormuz Hits 50% Complete• Microsoft Israel Head to Step Down After Inquiry Into Military Surveillance Links• Saudi Arabia’s Qiddiya Turns to Google AI to Run Future Mega Theme ParkNewsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): https:/

BlackRock Backs Dubai GymNation as Emaar Bets on Syria Again May 20, 2026 2155 HEADLINES:• Dubai-born GymNation just secured $100m BlackRock-backed investment• Emaar Exits $500 Million Syria JV While Mohamed Alabbar Doubles Down on Damascus• Swiss bank UBS Is Losing Some of the Middle East Wealth Bankers It Hired Just Two Years AgoNewsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business S

UAE Salary Crackdown, PIF & Newcastle Stadium, Dubai Holding AI Deal May 19, 2026 943 HEADLINES:• UAE scraps salary grace period as late-pay crackdown kicks in June 1 • PIF explores outside investors as Newcastle eyes £1bn stadium decision • Dubai Holding goes all-in on AI with Microsoft in major enterprise rollou • Syria to join G7 finance talks in Paris in sign of gradual global return

Saudi Economy, Palantir Stock & Noon Syria Expansion May 18, 2026 1155 HEADLINES:• Saudi emerges Gulf’s most resilient economy amid Strait fallout, IMF says • Mubadala Capital added Palantir stock to its portfolio in Q1 2026 • Alabbar's Noon plans to launch operations in Syria

UAE Bets $5BN on India; Saudi Floats Iran Pact; Israel Threatens NYT Lawsuit May 16, 2026 236 UAE–India Investment PushSaudi-Iran Non-Aggression PactIsrael vs New York Times

Abu Dhabi Sphere; Israel vs NYT; L’imad’s $30BN BlackRock Push May 15, 2026 2166 HEADLINES:• Abu Dhabi to become home of first Sphere outside of US • Israel threatens New York Times lawsuit over Palestinian prisoner abuse report • HH Sheikh Khaled-chaired L’imad joins BlackRock and Temasek on $30 billion infrastructure push

Thmanyah Founder Exit & Careem Saudi Pause May 14, 2026 2127 HEADLINES:• Thmanyah Founder Resigns as SRMG Raises Stake to 75%• Careem pulls back most Saudi consumer services amid strategic pauseNewsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): https://aug.us/3BTU2MY

Alabbar in Syria; SRMG-Thmanyah Deal; The Giving Movement Sold May 13, 2026 2586 HEADLINES:• UAE tycoon Mohamed Alabbar plans up to $18 billion Syria investment• SRMG subsidiary raises stake in Thmanyah to 75%• The Giving Movement founder says he sold the Dubai streetwear giant to existing investorsNewsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): https://aug.us/3B

Habshan Gas Cuts, Emaar Shift & Cerebras $34B IPO Surge May 12, 2026 1281 HEADLINES:• UAE's Habshan gas plant to stay below full capacity until 2027• Dubai Holding has tightened it control of Emaar in $6.5B stake shift as property market cools • UAE-backed Cerebras targets $34bn valuation in blockbuster US IPO  • UAE delivery orders surge 18% as dine-in demand drops sharply

Oil Shock, Hormuz LNG, Aramco Surge, UAE Relief May 11, 2026 905 HEADLINES:• Oil Jumps as Trump Rejects Iran Peace Proposal • Pakistan Secures Qatari LNG Lifeline Through Hormuz • Aramco Posts Record Quarterly Profit Surge • UAE Emergency Loan Relief Hits AED6.2bn

UAE’s AI Chip Delivery and Mubadala’s Green Tech Investment and the Hormuz Transit Test May 9, 2026 260 In this episode, we analyze the impact of the first batch of advanced U.S. AI chips arriving in the UAE to accelerate the nation's digital transformation. We also dive into Mubadala’s strategic investment in Power Factors, a global leader in renewable energy management, and examine the successful crossing of Abu Dhabi’s LNG carriers through the Strait of Hormuz amidst ongoing regional trade disrup

UAE Leads Global AI Adoption, Hormuz Tensions & Iran Shipping Crackdown May 8, 2026 1371 HEADLINES:• UAE Retains Global Lead in AI Adoption With 70% Usage Rate, Microsoft Report Finds • Saudi Arabia and Kuwait Restore U.S. Military Access After Hormuz Tensions, WSJ Reports • Iran Creates New Strait of Hormuz Transit Authority, Tightens Control Over Key Shipping Lane

Abu Dhabi Real Estate Boom & Alabbar’s Syria Push May 7, 2026 2615 HEADLINES:• Alabbar-led Eagle Hills studies $50 billion Syria projects• CEO Evgeny Ratskevich on Why Global Investors Are Flooding Abu Dhabi Real Estate 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

Sarwa Hits $1 Billion; Telegraph Drama; Man Group to Set Up in Abu Dhabi May 6, 2026 2219 HEADLINES: • Sarwa Crosses $1bn AUM as UAE Retail Investing Comes of Age• Telegraph, Politico owner says staff must align with pro-Israel principles or leave• World’s largest listed hedge fund manager Man Group to set up in Abu DhabiNewsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): htt

GameStop eBay Bid, Gulf Funds, Dubai Agentic AI Push & Neom Port Trade Hub May 5, 2026 1315 HEADLINES:• GameStop Seeks Gulf Sovereign Wealth Funds to Plug $26.1 Billion Gap in $55.5 Billion eBay Bid • Dubai Launches Two-Year Push to Make Agentic AI Core of Private Sector Transformation • Saudi Arabia Positions Neom Port as Red Sea Trade Hub to Reduce Dependence on Strait of Hormuz

Dubai Blue Line, Hormuz Strike, UAE-US Defense Deal & AA Rating May 4, 2026 1073 HEADLINES:• “Those who invest in Dubai are investing in the future”: Sheikh Mohammed launches Blue Line tunnelling• Commercial vessel struck in Strait of Hormuz after Trump announces US escort mission• UAE is set to acquire $147.6 million worth of advanced US military systems • Fitch affirms Abu Dhabi’s AA rating despite higher spending pressures

Hormuz Chokes Kuwait Oil; Axel Springer's Newsroom Ultimatum; Qatar Royals List $400M Bel-Air Loss May 3, 2026 272 Today’s Smashi Business Show covers a major disruption in global energy markets as Kuwait’s exports are halted through the Strait of Hormuz, a $400 million Qatari-linked Bel-Air mansion reflecting shifts in ultra-luxury wealth, and escalating tensions over media ownership and editorial independence in Western outlets. From oil flows to capital power and information control, the episode tracks how

Newcastle’s Future Under Saudi Ownership, U.S. Defense Deals, and Dana Gas Debt Settlement May 2, 2026 282 In this episode, we analyze Eddie Howe’s comments on PIF’s unwavering commitment to Newcastle United amidst a broader sports portfolio review. We also examine the implications of the U.S. approving $8.6 billion in military sales to the region. Finally, we highlight the strategic milestone for the UAE’s Dana Gas as it settles all outstanding receivables with the Egyptian government, signaling a boo

Sudan Arms Plot, Saudi LIV Exit, Amazon Cloud Crisis May 1, 2026 2373 HEADLINES:• UAE Charges 19 Sudanese, Including Former Intel Chief Salah Gosh, Over $13M Arms Smuggling• PlotSaudi Arabia pulls funding from LIV Golf, WSJ reports• Amazon: UAE Cloud Recovery Could Take Months After Iran Strikes

UAE property shifts & CarniStore scaling retail Apr 30, 2026 3188 HEADLINES:• Dubai Lowers Property Threshold for Two-Year Residency Visa• UAE startup CarniStore founders discuss scaling a digital-first butcher model in a fragmented market

UAE OPEC Exit, Paramount–Warner Deal, Citadel Dubai Launch Apr 29, 2026 2452 HEADLINES:• UAE To Exit OPEC After Nearly 60 Years• Gulf funds to own 38.5% of Paramount–Warner Bros as $111bn deal moves forward• Citadel Gets Greenlight to Begin Operating in DubaiNewsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): https://aug.us/3BTU2MY

Electronic Prices to Rise; ADNOC and US Gas; Delusional Media Outlets Apr 28, 2026 1312 HEADLINES:• Electronics prices set to rise as key Saudi plant shutdown squeezes global supply• We want to be bold in the US”: ADNOC eyes multi-billion gas expansion• Amira Sajwani calls out ‘delusional’ media as Dubai unveils $9.3B Metro Gold Line• Gaza teenage sisters’ low-cost brick model gains global attention  Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagra

Hormuz Deal, Nuclear Delay, UAE $1B Fund, Bugatti Rimac BlueFive Deal Apr 27, 2026 1189 HEADLINES:• Iran proposes phased deal to reopen Strait of Hormuz, delay nuclear talks • UAE launches AED 1 billion industrial resilience fund to boost local production • BlueFive Capital joins consortium in Bugatti acquisition as Rimac takes control

The $110B Media Merger, The Office Return, and the Saudi Cultural Wave Apr 26, 2026 326 In this extended episode, we analyze the massive $110 billion Warner Bros Discovery and Paramount merger and the strategic role of Gulf sovereign funds. We also look at why international law firms are calling their teams back to the UAE and how SRMG is taking the reins of Saudi Arabia’s "Al Thaqafiya" channel in a multi-million riyal deal.

Habtoor Lebanon Dispute, Sawiris Exits UK, Saudis Pull Funding Apr 25, 2026 241 Today’s episode covers Dubai’s Al Habtoor launching a $1.7bn legal battle with Lebanon, billionaire Nassef Sawiris exiting the UK as wealth shifts to the UAE, and Saudi Arabia pulling back a $200m Met Opera deal while reprioritising domestic spending.

UAE Musk Call, Ronaldo Aldar, Saudi ETF Move Apr 24, 2026 2133 HEADLINES:• UAE President and Elon Musk Discuss AI, Space in Phone Call• Brazilian legend Ronaldo named brand ambassador for Abu Dhabi developer Aldar• PIF backs Saudi ETF launch by $4tn asset manager State Street

UAE AI Government, Qana Gas Tensions, Investcorp US Real Estate Apr 24, 2026 2238 HEADLINES:• UAE to run 50% of government on agentic AI within two years• Israel eyes control of $40bn Qana gas field• Investcorp invests $200m in US residential real estate portfolioNewsletter: 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 Economy Strength, Gaza Reconstruction Talks, SpaceX AI Deal Apr 22, 2026 2844 HEADLINES:• UAE ambassador dismisses external funding claims, cites Dh7.34 trillion in assets• Trump’s Board of Peace holds Gaza reconstruction talks with UAE’s DP World• Gulf-backed SpaceX secures $60bn option to acquire AI startup CursorNewsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday

Apple CEO Shift, Swvl, UAE AI, UK Cuts Apr 21, 2026 1321 HEADLINES:• John Ternus to Succeed Tim Cook as Apple CEO, Facing AI and Product Innovation Push• Dubai-HQed and Egypt-born Swvl is not Delisting from Nasdaq• MBZUAI Retains 80% of Graduates as UAE Bets on Talent and Stability• UK Job Cuts Surge as Iran War Hits Home After Gulf Warnings• UK Universities Paid Private Intelligence Firm to Monitor Student Protest Activity, AJ Investigation Newsle

Middle East Oil Recovery Gulf Deals Tabby License Netflix Partnership Apr 20, 2026 1538 HEADLINES:• IEA warns Middle East oil output recovery could take two years amid war damage and Hormuz disruption • stc group and Netflix expand partnership to bundle streaming services in Saudi Arabia via stc tv • Tabby secures UAE central bank licence to launch full financial services platform across the Gulf• Abu Dhabi’s EIIC buys stake in Joe & The Juice at $1.8bn valuation in con

Dubai’s Real Estate Surge and Tabby’s Banking Evolution and Khabib’s Luxury Property Debut Apr 19, 2026 292 In this episode, we break down Dubai’s resilient real estate market as it records AED 11.7 billion in a single week. We also explore Tabby’s major shift into digital banking services following its new Central Bank license, and highlight UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov’s $70 million entry into Dubai’s premium property development scene.

Abu Dhabi’s China Pivot, the $20 Billion Uranium Deal, and Australian Market Moves Apr 18, 2026 312 In this episode, we break down Abu Dhabi’s plan to consolidate its Chinese investment strategy under a new powerhouse entity. We also explore the high-stakes "cash-for-uranium" negotiations between the U.S. and Iran in Islamabad and analyze Axight’s billion-dollar entry into the Australian financial market through its latest acquisition.

Dubai Air Taxis, Alwaleed Buys Al Hilal, Abu Dhabi Joe & The Juice Deal Apr 17, 2026 1502 HEADLINES:• Sheikh Hamdan announces first air taxi station now 'ready'• Prince Alwaleed to Take 70% Stake in Al Hilal • UAE Investor Buys Stake in General Atlantic’s Joe & the Juice

PIF LIV Reset, Riyadh Metro, Bain AD Growth Apr 16, 2026 1256 HEADLINES:• Public Investment Fund Weighs Scaling Back LIV Golf Funding in Strategic Reset• Riyadh is opening its metro map to monetization• Bain Capital Expands to Abu Dhabi Despite Regional ConflictNewsletter: 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 Emiratisation Cuts, Pakistan Saudi, Iran China Intelligence Apr 15, 2026 1506 HEADLINES:• UAE to reduce salary top-ups for Emiratis in private sector • Pakistan Secures $3 Billion in Saudi Loans to Lift Reserves • Iran Used Chinese Spy Satellite to Target US Bases Across the Middle East

Gulf defense US delays Ukraine drones Apple Maps SWF USD25B move Apr 14, 2026 1114 HEADLINES:• Gulf Allies Rethink Defense as U.S. Supply Delays Mount• Zelenskyy Says Ukrainian Systems Downed Iranian Drones in Gulf • Mytheresa CEO Bets on Middle East Growth Despite Regional Tension • Apple Denies Removing Southern Lebanon Villages From Maps • Gulf Sovereign Wealth Funds Deploy $25 in Q1 2026: Global SWF report

Hormuz Blockade, Oil Surge, UAE Teens, Pistachio Prices Apr 13, 2026 1066 HEADLINES:• Oil, Gas Surge as US Moves to Blockade Strait of Hormuz After Failed Iran Talks • Social Media Bank on 16 Year Olds in UAE? A UAE Entrepreneur has Started a Convo • Pistachio Prices Hit 8-Year High as Iran War Disrupts Supply, Demand Surges • HH Sheikh Tahnoon-led Firm to Acquire Majority Stake in Richard Caring’s Hospitality Empire

Major Hospitality Acquisitions and Hormuz Deadlock and the UAEs Unity Under One Flag Apr 12, 2026 280 In this episode, we cover the billion-pound acquisition by IHC’s Diafa of the iconic British hospitality empire "The Ivy." We also break down the stalemate in U.S.-Iran talks over the nuclear file and the Strait of Hormuz. Finally, we highlight the powerful display of national unity as global giants like Microsoft and ADNOC join the UAE community in raising the national flag.

Irans Hormuz Tolls, Abu Dhabis IMF Win, and TruKKers Logistics Surge Apr 11, 2026 318 This episode analyzes Iran’s dual strategy of asset negotiation and cryptocurrency transit fees in the Strait of Hormuz. We also cover Abu Dhabi’s successful bid to host the 2029 World Bank and IMF meetings and explore how the UAE’s TruKKer is transforming regional land freight to overcome maritime shipping disruptions.

Hormuz Reopens Saudi Fund Exit Mubadala USD385bn Apr 10, 2026 2295 HEADLINES:• Al Jaber: Hormuz must be reopened without restriction • Saudi Arabia's $100 billion electronics fund removes CEO • FMubadala assets under management grow 17 percent to $385 billion in 2025

Qatar LNG Restart -G42 Expansion -Fox Kalshi Deal Apr 9, 2026 1508 HEADLINES:• Qatar Moves to Restart LNG Production as Ceasefire Reopens Path Through Hormuz• UAE AI Firm G42 Pushes Ahead With Expansion Despite War Risks• Fox Partners With Kalshi to Bring Prediction Markets to Mainstream MediaNewsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): https://a

Oil Drops - Abu Dhabi - Nubank Expands Apr 8, 2026 1686 HEADLINES:• Oil Prices Plunge After Trump Announces Two-Week Iran Ceasefire Deal• BlackRock and State Street Stay Bullish on Abu Dhabi Despite Tensions• HH Sheikh Khaled Meets Nubank CEO as Digital Bank Expands into Abu DhabiNewsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): https://aug

UAE Tourism, Abu Dhabi Studio & MENA Streaming Apr 7, 2026 1359 HEADLINES:• UAE Prepares Major Tourism Relief Package as Regional Tensions Bite• Abu Dhabi-Backed Redbird IMI Aims to Be World’s Largest Independent Studio• Saudi Media Giant Looks to Build “Netflix of MENA” with Thmanyah Sports EcosystemNewsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday)

UAE Top Exporters, Dubai Property Boom, Semafor Gulf Expansion Apr 6, 2026 987 HEADLINES:• UAE breaks into global top 10 exporters for first time, as per WTO• Dubai property sales hit AED176.7bn in Q1 as prices hold firm • American publisher Semafor doubles down on Gulf expansion amid rising global focus

Fires at Borouge Facility, Telegram Use Surges in Iran, Abu Dhabi Takes Stake in Insight Partners Apr 5, 2026 152 Today’s episode covers fires at Abu Dhabi’s Borouge facility, Pavel Durov’s claim that millions in Iran still use Telegram despite a ban, and Abu Dhabi’s quiet stake in venture capital firm Insight Partners.

Debris from intercepted Iranian missile hits Oracle Dubai office Apr 4, 2026 164 Today’s episode covers rising regional tensions impacting tech infrastructure in the UAE, Khalaf Al Habtoor’s response to Jeffrey Sachs’ warning on Dubai, and growing backlash over war-related betting platforms like Polymarket.

Oracle Attack, Fake Musk Saudi Talks, Dubai Property Surge Apr 3, 2026 1948 HEADLINES:• The Oracle Attack in Dubai Is Fake News • SpaceX in Talks With Saudi PIF for $5 Billion IPO Investment • Dubai Property Market Defies War Jitters With $5 Billion Sales Surge

UAE SMEs, Iran Travel Curbs, Newcastle Profit Apr 2, 2026 1747 HEADLINES:• Majid Al Futtaim Opens Malls to UAE SMEs• UAE Airlines Restrict Iranian Travel• Saudi-Backed Newcastle Reports ProfitNewsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): https://aug.us/3BTU2MY

Whoop Funding, IHC India Deal, Bezos AI Push Apr 1, 2026 1961 HEADLINES:• Gulf Sovereign Funds Invest in Whoop• Abu Dhabi’s IHC Is Investing Nearly $1 Billion in an Indian Finance Company• Jeff Bezos Recently Visited the Gulf to Raise CapitalNewsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): https://aug.us/3BTU2MY

Iran Drone Attack Dubai Trump War Funding Gulf Billions Mar 31, 2026 951 HEADLINES:• DUBAI APPROVES AED 1 BILLION ECONOMIC BOOST PACKAGE • TRUMP EYES GULF CASH TO FUND IRAN WAR • US DEFENSE SECRETARY'S BROKER SOUGHT DEFENSE STOCK INVESTMENT BEFORE IRAN STRIKE• IRANIAN DRONE STRIKES KUWAITI TANKER OFF DUBAI COAST

UAE Resilient, Iran Attacks, Gulf Growth, FII Miami, Aluminium Risk Mar 30, 2026 1342 HEADLINES:• UAE Remains Open And Resilient Despite Attacks, Minister Says • Big Money Speaks: $16B Cain CEO Sees Gulf Winning Long-Term • FII Priority Summit Miami 2026: Key Takeaways • Iran Strikes Hit Gulf Aluminium Giants, Production Risks Emerge

Mubadala Signals Strength, Ninja Eyes IPO, Saudi Oil Reroutes Amid Hormuz Disruption Mar 29, 2026 165 Today’s episode covers major developments shaping global markets—from Mubadala’s strategy amid regional tensions to Saudi startup Ninja’s IPO ambitions, and how Saudi Arabia is rerouting oil flows as the Strait of Hormuz faces disruption.

Trump Headlines Saudi FII Miami Conference Mar 28, 2026 250 Today’s episode covers major developments shaping the region and global markets, from Trump’s $14 billion Oracle investment in Saudi Arabia to Al Habtoor Group’s expansion plans in the UAE, and Israel’s $57 billion economic losses from the Gaza genocide.

Blackstone's $250M UAE Bet; Alaan's SME Lifeline; Bioniq's $150M Exit Mar 27, 2026 2439 The Smashi Business Show breaks down four transformative stories reshaping the Arab business world in real time. First, investment giant Blackstone defies geopolitical uncertainty with a $250 million commitment to UAE gaming infrastructure—a bold signal that major capital still sees the Middle East as a long-term opportunity despite the Iran conflict. Second, UAE fintech Alaan launches a stunning

QIA Golden Goose Stake Mar 26, 2026 2345 HEADLINES:• Emaar ‘Not Worried’ by Iran War Impact• OpenAI Eyes $10bn Raise Backed by MGX• QIA Eyes 10% Stake in Golden GooseNewsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): https://aug.us/3BTU2MY

Hormuz Fees; AWS Bahrain Disruption; Saudi IPO Mar 25, 2026 2031 HEADLINES:• Iran Charges Some Ships Hormuz Transit Fees for Safe Passage• Amazon Cloud Disrupted in Bahrain After Alleged Drone Activity• Saudi Startup Ninja Eyes Riyadh IPO as Market Holds SteadyNewsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): https://aug.us/3BTU2MY

ADNOC Energy, Trump Iran, Dubai Property Mar 24, 2026 969 HEADLINES:• ADNOC CEO: Energy Security Means Light on or Light Off• Primark Has No Plans to Postpone Opening in Dubai Mall• US President Trump Privately Pressed by Media Mogul Rupert Murdoch for Iran War: Bloomberg• Dubai Property Inquiries Are on the Rise: Betterhomes ReportNewsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4l

UAE Pledges $1.4T to US, Lush Celebrates Eid in UAE, and Saudi’s Savvy Games Acquires Moonton for $6B+ Mar 21, 2026 360 In this episode of Smashi Business, Wael Hossam covers the UAE’s $1.4 trillion US investment pledge, Lush’s Eid collaboration with Emirati brand Home Bakery, and Saudi’s Savvy Games acquiring Mobile Legends studio Moonton, exploring the latest in global business, tech, and market strategy.

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