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
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
Burjeel $500M Sukuk | Uber Egypt | Iraq vs OPEC
HEADLINES:• Royal Backed Burjeel Just Raised $500 Million in the First UAE Sukuk Since the Iran War• Uber Egypt Was Just Ordered to Pay EGP 10 Million to the Family of Habiba El Shamaa• BREAKING: Iraq Just Threatened to Leave OPEC Unless It Gets a Higher Production QuotaNewsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8
GEMS India Push; Al-Futtaim Saudi Overhaul; UAE Oil Recovery
HEADLINES:• GEMS Education to Invest $30 Million Expanding Across India• UAE's Al-Futtaim Overhauls Saudi Retail Giant After Corruption Probe• UAE Oil Exports Recover to 85% of Pre War Levels, IEA SaysNewsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): https://aug.us/3BTU2MY
MGX $50BN Raise; Foodics Norma Deal; Dubai Flexi Rents
HEADLINES:• MGX Led by HH Sheikh Tahnoon Just Raised $50 Billion as Abu Dhabi Courts Global Investors• Saudi Foodtech Giant Foodics Acquires Greek AI Startup Norma• Dubai launches ‘Flexi Rents’ initiative to ease tenant payment burden Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Frida
Iran Can Sell Oil in Dollars Again; Saudi Pulls Funds; Meta Leak
HEADLINES:• US partially lifts Iran oil sanctions as peace talks gain momentum• Saudi Central Bank Said to Pull Money From at Least Two Managers• Leaked documents show Israel asked Meta to censor Iran war content and Meta compliedNewsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): https:
Saudi Spending Cuts, Atoms IPO Plans & MGX’s Billion-Dollar AI Bet
HEADLINES:• Saudi Pullback Hits BCG as PIF Cuts Consulting Spend • Uber co-founder Kalanick’s Atoms eyes Saudi IPO as market waits for stability • MGX explores multi-billion-dollar bid for Singapore’s DayOne Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday): https://aug.u
Proptech Rewards, Trade Shield Restructuring, and Travis Kalanick’s Saudi Ambitions
In this episode of the Smashi Business Show, we explore Dubizzle Group’s strategic investment in Tern, a pioneer in the UAE rental rewards landscape that brings flexible credit card payments to tenants. We then shift to a crucial sovereign update as the UAE restructures the board of Etihad Credit Insurance under Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi to boost global export protections. Finally, we break down Uber c
Hormuz Closure Returns; UAE Royal Steers Iran Ties; Saudis Eye Newcastle Stake Sale
Iran has once again declared the Strait of Hormuz closed as peace talks with the United States prepare to begin in Switzerland. We break down what the move means for global energy markets and why investors are watching shipping traffic closely.
Iran $6B Funds; Syria Gas Deal; Emirates–Etihad Insurance
HEADLINES:• Iran to get access to $6 billion of frozen funds held in Qatar to buy US goods: FT • Syria signs deal with ConocoPhillips to revive gas production • Emirates and Etihad now offer conflict insurance to lure tourists back Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mo
UAE Hormuz Strategy; Revolut UAE Launch; Telegram vs Reliance
HEADLINES:• UAE aims to cut dependency on Strait of Hormuz to 'zero' • Revolut gets UAE Central Bank licences ahead of full launch • Reliance and WhatsApp behind efforts to sabotage Telegram globally': CEO Pavel Durov Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Friday
JD Vance Iran Deal; Abu Dhabi Knicks; Sawiris Mykonos
HEADLINES:• JD Vance says Gulf states could fund a $300 billion rebuilding of Iran under proposed deal • The Knicks title run was also a win for Abu Dhabi • Egyptian billionaire Naguib Sawiris is building a €100 million luxury resort in Mykonos Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Busi
Al Habtoor IPO; Paramount Warner Bros; Kuwait Nvidia AI
HEADLINES:• Al Habtoor Group will not go for IPO for now • Gulf backed Paramount just won approval for its $111 billion Warner Bros takeover• Kuwait's sovereign wealth fund just launched a $10 billion AI company with Nvidia and KKR Newsletter: https://aug.us/4jqModrWhatsApp: https://aug.us/40FdYLUInstagram: https://aug.us/4ihltzQTiktok: https://aug.us/4lnV0D8Smashi Business Show (Mon-Fri
The US-Iran Framework Breakthrough, 600 Tankers Await Hormuz Reopening, and UAE’s Next-Gen AI Authority
In this episode, we break down the immediate plunge in global oil prices and the stock market rally triggered by the historic US-Iran framework peace agreement. We also look at the logistics at sea as nearly 600 stranded tankers cautiously await the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, and highlight the UAE’s major governance leap with the creation of the federal Artificial Intelligence and Data Aut
Blue Owl’s Abu Dhabi Expansion, Ninja Challenges Uber’s Dominance, and DOJ Clears Mega Media Merger
In this episode, we break down private credit titan Blue Owl Capital’s move to establish its regional headquarters in Abu Dhabi amid macroeconomic shifts. We also explore the intense bidding war brewing in the food delivery sector as Saudi startup Ninja threatens Uber’s Middle East acquisition strategy, and highlight the major regulatory milestone in Washington as the DOJ clears Paramount’s $110 b
SpaceX Mints Saudi Billions; Al Habtoor Eyes Syria; Altman Cancels Abu Dhabi Trip
SpaceX Mints Saudi Billions; Al Habtoor Eyes Syria; Altman Cancels Abu Dhabi Trip
Emaar Megaproject; Kalshi World Cup Deal; Al Haboob Founders
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
UAE–India Investment PushSaudi-Iran Non-Aggression PactIsrael vs New York Times
Abu Dhabi Sphere; Israel vs NYT; L’imad’s $30BN BlackRock Push
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
