Morning Drive
Morning Drive is Mira Business FM's flagship weekday programme airing Monday–Friday, 8 AM–12 PM. Presented by Tim Elliott, it delivers a dynamic mix of business news, expert analysis, and in-depth interviews with thought leaders and market specialists. From financial markets and economic trends to entrepreneurship, technology, property, and leadership, the show explores the stories shaping today's business landscape, equipping listeners across the UAE and beyond with practical insights that matter.
Episodes
DIFC Za’abeel vs Expo City: Where Should You Invest AED 5M?
Tim Elliott sits down with Luxe Vista Properties CEO Ajay Menon to weigh two high-stakes Dubai real estate strategies. They analyze whether investors deploying AED 5 million should target high-scarcity luxury in DIFC Za'abeel District or back the long-term growth of Expo City.
Why Did the Maldives’ Tourism Advisor Step Down?
The Maldives is under the spotlight at Arabian Travel Market, from Gulf travel demand and aviation connectivity to investment and new tourism policies. Mohamed Khaleel joins Tim Elliott after recently stepping down as Tourism Advisor to the President of the Maldives, citing concerns over the impact of new foreign-currency requirements on the tourism sector. He is also CEO of Manta Air and Managing
UAE Tax Deadline: Is Your Business Really Ready?
UAE businesses are facing another important tax deadline, with September 30 approaching for Corporate Tax filings. But experts say filing on time is only part of the job. From Small Business Relief and free-zone rules to deductions, transfer pricing and record-keeping, businesses need to make sure their tax position can stand up to scrutiny. Joining Tim Elliott to explain everything we need to kno
Middle East Hotels Shift Towards Franchising
The Middle East’s hotel sector could be entering a major shift. Franchising is gaining ground as hotel owners look for more control and lower costs, while hotel groups seek faster, capital-light expansion. With Arabian Travel Market putting the spotlight on the region’s next phase of tourism growth, we look at whether franchising could reshape how hotels are developed across the Middle East.Joinin
Why Aren’t Gulf Tourists Going to Jamaica?
Today marks the first day of the Arabian Travel Market 2026, and Jamaica is making a major push to attract travelers from the GCC. Despite the region's immense potential, the Gulf currently sends only about 1,500 visitors annually, trailing far behind traditional markets like the UK.Why are Gulf travelers looking elsewhere, and can better air links and visa reforms change that? Jamaica's Minister
How Expensive Is Pet Care in the UAE?
From routine check-ups and vaccinations to unexpected emergencies, pet care can quickly become expensive in the UAE. And as more people treat their pets like family, demand is growing for veterinary care that is more transparent, preventative and easier to manage. Paws Co is entering the market with plans to open 30 clinics across the UAE by 2030, with its first two locations opening this December
Abu Dhabi’s Off-Plan Mortgage: Game Changer or Just More Financing?
Abu Dhabi’s property market is getting a new financing option for off-plan buyers, with a first-of-its-kind mortgage framework allowing buyers to secure financing earlier in the property journey. But is it really a game changer? The Central Bank has long allowed financing of up to 50 percent for off-plan properties, while Abu Dhabi developers traditionally offered payment plans below that threshol
Resume Hacking? Yes, Applicants Do It.
Tim Elliott sits down with David Mackenzie, Managing Director of Mackenzie Jones Middle East, to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming talent acquisition. From automated screening and AI-driven workflows to fake candidates and 'resume hacking', they unpack whether technology will replace human judgment or elevate recruitment into a bespoke concierge service.
Oil Surges Past $100 as CPI Data and Middle East Tensions Pressure the Fed
Tim Elliott speaks with Monetary Metals Managing Director Jeff Rhodes as oil prices cross $100 amidst US-Iran friction. With crucial CPI data arriving, they discuss whether rising energy costs will force a Federal Reserve rate hike before the US midterms and reflect on 9/11’s financial legacy.
Why Liability Insurance Matters More Than Ever for UAE Businesses
UAE-licensed independent financial consultant James Thomas joins Tim Elliott to explore why liability insurance is no longer just a corporate compliance requirement—it is a vital financial safeguard for businesses of all sizes. The conversation delves into why protecting your enterprise from third-party claims, product issues, and operational risks is essential, especially for small businesses, SM
Dubai Business: Is the Worst of Summer Behind Us?
As summer winds down, are businesses in Dubai finally seeing brighter days ahead? The US-Iran conflict continues to create uncertainty across the region, but founders are already looking toward the busier months ahead. Tim Elliott is joined by Carmen Taubman, founder of Crew Club, to find out what she is seeing on the ground among startups and SMEs.
Securing the UAE's Water Future
Rising population growth, rapid urbanisation, and depleting natural aquifers pose severe challenges to the UAE's water supply. Tim Elliott speaks with Dr Abir Hamze, Assistant Professor from Canadian University Dubai, about non-conventional solutions, wastewater recycling, and how individual action must align with the UAE Water Security Strategy 2036.
Billions Pour Into the Gulf’s AI Infrastructure
The Gulf is investing heavily in the infrastructure needed to power the next wave of AI, with more than 170 active and planned data centres across the region. But as investment grows, so do questions around energy, talent and whether the region can turn its AI ambitions into lasting economic growth. CNN Correspondent and Anchor of Connecting Africa and Marketplace Middle East, Eleni Giokos, joins
Dubai Property Prices Drop for First Time in Five Years
Dubai home prices have registered a 1.7% monthly dip—the first price decline since February 2021. Tim Elliott speaks with Mario Volpi, Senior Manager at EVA Real Estate, to break down shifting market dynamics, off-plan payment plans, regional market resilience, and emerging mortgage trends across the Emirates.
GCC Set for 6.8% Rebound: Can Diversification Deliver?
The GCC economy is facing a sharp downturn in 2026, but Oxford Economics is forecasting a major rebound next year. Its latest research projects 6.8% GCC growth in 2027, with the UAE expected to grow 6.6%, as energy exports recover and non-oil activity gains momentum. But with geopolitical risks still disrupting trade and tourism, the recovery could also become a turning point for economic diversif
UAE Building Safety Rules: What Developers Need to Know Now
The UAE is tightening the rules around building safety and long-term compliance under Law No. (3) of 2026. But what do the new requirements actually mean for developers, consultants and building owners, and could ignoring smaller fire safety issues today lead to major costs tomorrow? Tim Elliott speaks to Elliott Brown, Founder and Managing Director of The FDI Group.
Reality vs Fantasy: Is Dubai’s Real Estate Price Appreciation Out of Reach?
Tim Elliott interviews Ajay Menon, CEO of Luxe Vista Properties, to analyse the reality behind Dubai's soaring property appreciation. The discussion analyses mid-market off-plan projections, evaluates target prices per square foot, and highlights key factors investors must examine before expecting substantial long-term financial returns.
UAE Coffee Company Diversifies
F&B growth in the UAE is no longer just about opening more outlets. Established brands are increasingly looking at adjacent categories, new products and new revenue streams to keep growing without losing what made them successful in the first place.On Morning Drive, we look at how brands can expand beyond their core business while staying relevant to customers. Joining Tim Elliott is Matt Toog
How to Break Into UAE Real Estate: Moving from Australia to Abu Dhabi
In this episode, Tim Elliott sits down with Off-Plan Investment Advisor Patrick Mullally to discuss his personal career pivot from Australia to Abu Dhabi. Patrick shares key insights into navigating the local property landscape, the growing opportunities within the Abu Dhabi market, and practical guidance for aspiring real estate professionals looking to establish themselves in the UAE.
Gold Soars as Macro Risk Escalates and Central Banks Relocate Reserves
Tim Elliott speaks with Monetary Metals’ Jeff Rhodes as bullion holds near historic highs. Rhodes breaks down shifting US interest rate expectations, geopolitical instability, and the Dutch Central Bank moving billions in gold to London. Plus, a look at unallocated accounts and why silver could soon test new ranges.
Is Now the Time to Become a Dubai Broker?
Dubai’s real estate market continues to attract investors and new players. But is it still a good time to enter the industry, and what does it take to succeed?Joining Tim Elliott is Artem Makarov, Real Estate Broker at AGRR Real Estate, to explain how to become a broker in Dubai, what he is seeing in the market, and his advice for those looking to enter the business.
GCC Job Vacancies Down 30% as Hiring Hits Post-Pandemic Low
The Gulf's recruitment sector is facing its toughest period since the pandemic, with live job vacancies plunging by nearly a third year-on-year. Tim Elliott speaks to Mackenzie Jones Middle East Managing Director David Mackenzie to unpack the market data, tackle candidate expectations, and explore Q4 survival strategies.
What Shein’s Hong Kong Debut Means for GCC Markets
Shein’s Hong Kong debut has given investors a reality check. Shares fell sharply despite a limited float, raising fresh questions about valuations, consumer spending and the future of ultra-cheap e-commerce. So what does Shein’s performance tell us about global markets, and could the same pressures affect consumers and businesses across the GCC? Joining Tim Elliott is Nagham Hassan, MENA Market An
South African Honey Is Coming to the UAE
South African honey is making its way into the UAE, with premium producers looking to tap into a market where consumers are increasingly interested in quality, traceability and natural products. Hive & Earth Sustainable Honey Company, which exhibited at Gulfood last year, is now looking at the UAE as a potential growth market. Tim Elliott speaks to co-owner Danie Vorster about entering the UAE
Can Chinese Cars Build Trust in the UAE?
Chinese car brands are no longer competing in the UAE on price alone. Technology, design, performance and quality are reshaping the market, but as competition grows, winning a customer once may not be enough. The bigger challenge is building trust, loyalty and a strong aftersales experience. Today, we look at what it will take for Chinese automotive brands to become long-term players in the UAE. J
Is the Cheapest Supplier Still the Best Choice?
The UAE and Egypt have activated a five-year, US$500 million wheat supply agreement, highlighting a growing concern for businesses: in an increasingly volatile world, is the cheapest supplier still the best supplier? Tim Elliott is joined by Sam Achampong, Regional Director for Asia, Australasia, Middle East and Africa at the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply, to discuss why companie
Dubai Real Estate Hits a 'Goldilocks' Lull as Buyers Hold Back
As residents return from summer holidays, the Dubai real estate market is facing a temporary pause. EVA Real Estate Senior Manager Mario Volpi joins Tim Elliott to analyse why buyer hesitation and unrealistic discount expectations are creating a tepid, "Goldilocks" environment despite strong underlying demand across the emirate.
The Real Estate Metric Investors Ignore
Why do real estate investors focus heavily on residential pipeline data while completely ignoring commercial growth? On Mira Business FM, Tim Elliott speaks with Luxe Vista Properties CEO Ajay Menon about Dubai’s evolving employment corridors and why residential demand strictly follows job creation across the emirate.
Gen Z Is Changing the UAE Workplace
Gen Z is entering the GCC workforce, and employers may need to rethink how they recruit, retain and develop young talent. From financial wellbeing and flexibility to career progression and leadership development, the expectations around work are changing.Joining Tim Elliott is Nina Pacic, People Operations Director for the Middle East at Sovereign PPG, to discuss what employers need to do differen
Pokémon Just Turned 30. Just How Big Is the Business?
Pokémon has just turned 30, but this is no longer just a story about a video game or a cartoon. It has grown into one of the biggest entertainment and merchandise businesses in the world, spanning games, trading cards, toys, movies, licensing and collectibles. So, just how big is the business of fandom? And that brings us to the Middle East Film & Comic Con, one of the region's biggest celebra
What Happens to British Expats' UAE Assets?
British expats may not own property in the UAE, but that does not mean they do not have an estate here. From bank accounts and cars to investments and end-of-service benefits, assets can still become subject to estate and succession processes. So what happens when UK assumptions about joint ownership and inheritance collide with UAE rules? Joining Tim Elliott is Mohammad D. Marria, CEO and Founder
20,000 Emiratis on One Platform. What It Means for UAE Jobs
The latest Emiratisation deadline has passed, but the push for UAE businesses to build and retain Emirati talent continues. With Dawlati now reporting more than 20,000 Emiratis on its platform, the bigger question is whether the UAE workforce is entering a new phase focused on quality, retention and career growth. Tim Elliott speaks to Rashid Zakaria Doleh, Founder of Dawlati, about the state of E
Dubai's $2M Kids Sports Club Goes Global
From professional athlete to entrepreneur, Andrej Kuprejev has built GMNSM into a fast-growing UAE-born combat sports and child development business. Now, after closing $2 million in funding, the brand is setting its sights on Riyadh and Monaco. Tim Elliott speaks to the founder about scaling a homegrown business, using AI in coaching, and why families are investing more than ever in their childre
Rethinking Wealth: How Changing Family Dynamics Are Disrupting Estate Planning
With falling birth rates and non-traditional family structures on the rise, standard generational wealth transfer models are breaking down. Presenter Tim Elliott speaks with independent financial consultant James Thomas about how child-free couples and non-linear families must actively redefine estate planning to ensure their hard-earned assets pass on effectively.
Global Sports Brands Target UAE’s Next Generation of Talent
The UAE's sports industry is becoming an increasingly important business opportunity for global brands. New Balance's new three-year partnership with Al Jazira Club is the latest sign of that, bringing together the commercial side of sport with a focus on grassroots development and the next generation of home-grown talent. As investment in football, fitness and sporting communities continues to gr
The Projects Putting Ras Al Khaimah on the UAE Property Map
Ras Al Khaimah is becoming an increasingly important part of the UAE's booming real estate story, as investors and developers look beyond Dubai and Abu Dhabi for the next big opportunities. And one of the major projects announced last year, Mira Coral Bay, is making fresh headlines again, putting the spotlight back on the emirate's growing luxury property ambitions.Joining Tim Elliott is Alessandr
Agentic AI Is Coming for Finance Jobs. What Happens Next?
The finance world is entering a new phase of AI transformation, and this time, the technology is not just answering questions. Agentic AI can take on tasks, make decisions within set limits, and potentially transform everything from financial analysis to forecasting and corporate strategy. But as companies attempt to adopt it, the big question is whether finance teams are ready to hand more respon
Gold Soars as Macro Risk Escalates
Gold expert Jeff Rhodes joins Tim Elliott on Mira Business FM to examine bullion's persistent rally. With prices holding near historical highs, Rhodes analyses shifting US interest rate expectations, central bank reserves, and global conflict drivers—explaining why precious metals remain the ultimate barometer of market risk.
Mira Coral Bay Unveiled: Affordable Luxury & Multi-Branded Living in Ras Al Khaimah
Morning Drive property news segment with Mario Volpi and Tim Elliott covers Mira Coral Bay by Mira Developments in downtown Ras Al Khaimah. Featuring multi-branded luxury residences—including designs by Trussardi, John Richmond, Dolce & Gabbana Casa, and Jacob & Co—this development offers a serene, staycation-style alternative to the bustling gaming hubs.
Middle East Energy: Can Renewables Keep Up with Rising Demand?
As rapid urbanization, industrial expansion, and AI-driven data centers drive energy demand across the region, can renewable energy keep up? Ahead of the landmark 50th edition of Middle East Energy at the Dubai World Trade Centre (September 1–3), Mark Ring, Group Exhibition Director of Middle East Energy, breaks down the biggest forces reshaping the regional energy market. From massive solar inves
Dubai’s New Off-Plan Rules Explained
Tim Elliott speaks with Ajay Menon, CEO of Luxe Vista Properties, about a major shift in Dubai real estate. With banks now financing off-plan properties earlier than ever, they break down what this means for buyers, developers, and the market.
Back to School, Back to Cyber Risk?
As UAE schools and universities prepare for the new academic year, the return to class is also putting their digital systems to the test. From enrolment platforms and parent communication to cloud services and AI tools, education is becoming an increasingly attractive target for cybercriminals. Joining Tim Elliott is Zakeer Zubair, Director of Solutions Engineering for the Middle East, Türkiye and
US-Iran Escalation: Where Should Investors Put Their Money Now?
The latest escalation between the US and Iran is once again rattling global markets, pushing geopolitical risk, oil prices and inflation back into focus. So, what does this mean for your investments, and where could the opportunities and dangers lie? Joining Tim Elliott is Dr Ryan Lemand, Founder and CEO of Neovision Wealth Management, to provide expert analysis.
Gold Hits New Highs Amid Regional Conflict
Gold expert Jeff Rhodes returns to Mira Business FM alongside Tim Elliott to analyse the metal's latest surge. After months of range-bound trading, gold has surpassed major milestones. Rhodes unpacks shifting central bank reserves, global treasury sell-offs, and what this explosive momentum signals for precious metals markets.
Can You Still Find a Job in the UAE Right Now?
Dubai's job market was one of the strongest in the post-pandemic period, with employers continuing to hire despite months of regional uncertainty. But after this week's latest escalation, is the outlook beginning to change? Are companies becoming more cautious, and what does this mean for job seekers? Joining us is Zachary Beckett, Talent Partner at Professional Pyramid, to look at what is happeni
Post-Summer Financial Reset: Pay Off Debt & Fix Your Savings
Following summer holidays and looming expenses, Tim Elliott chats with UAE-licensed independent financial consultant James Thomas to discuss recovering from seasonal spending. They examine breaking the cycle of holiday debt, accepting personal responsibility, and establishing a balanced strategy to reassess financial goals for the remainder of the year.
UAE Restaurant Expands Despite Supply Chain Pressures
Naughty Pizza founder Bart Misztal joins Tim Elliott to discuss managing supply chain disruptions, rising costs, and shifting consumer habits across the UAE. Despite ongoing market uncertainties, Misztal reveals how tighter cost controls and strategic adaptations are driving the brand's rapid regional expansion, major new event partnerships, and local venue launches.
Dubai Hotels Feel the Conflict, But Mid-Market Properties Hold Up
Dubai’s hotel market is feeling the impact of regional disruption, but mid-market properties are holding up better than luxury hotels. With occupancy down 30% in H1 2026, can the return of international travel drive a recovery? And what if the conflict drags on?Joining us is Ali Siddiqui, Research Manager at Cavendish Maxwell, to unpack this.
Is Ras Al Khaimah Outpacing Dubai’s Property Market?
Tim Elliott is joined by Mario Volpi, Senior Manager at EVA Real Estate, to analyse shifting dynamics across the Emirates. As buyers weigh geopolitical caution against high-yield opportunities, off-plan demand accelerates. Volpi reveals why capital is aggressively moving into emerging hotspots, questioning if Ras Al Khaimah is outshining Dubai.
US - Iran Conflict Escalates: What It Means for UAE Prices and Supply Chains
Oil has climbed above $90 a barrel as hopes of a US-Iran deal fade, raising fresh concerns over energy supplies, shipping and the cost of goods. For the UAE, the question is how resilient the economy and its supply chains can remain if tensions persist. We’re joined by Frank Kane, Editor-at-Large at Arabian Gulf Business Insight, to look at the Gulf’s energy outlook and what businesses and consume
No US-Iran Deal: What Happens to the Gulf Economy?
The US-Iran interim deal has expired without a new agreement, while the Strait of Hormuz remains a major flashpoint. Oil prices are rising again, shipping is under pressure and businesses are facing renewed uncertainty over energy and trade.So what does this mean for the Gulf economy, UAE businesses and consumers? And could the UAE emerge stronger as regional uncertainty continues?We are joined by
UAE Freelancers: Is Work Finally Coming Back?
Months into the regional conflict, UAE freelancers are still navigating a tougher market. Projects have been delayed, budgets have tightened and businesses have become more cautious. But has the freelance market started to recover?We revisit the conversation with UAE-based film director and producer Ammar Galal, who joined us months ago when work was particularly difficult. What does the market lo
The TRUTH About Dubai Property Payment Plans (Don't Buy Until You Hear This!)
Tim Elliott speaks with Ajay Menon, CEO of Luxe Vista Properties, to break down the sheer volume of property payment plans dominating Dubai's current market. They discuss how investors can differentiate between competing schemes, evaluate post-handover terms, mitigate risks, and choose the ideal plan for long-term value.
Dubai-It, Dubai Invite, Save Our Soap: How Campaigns Help Businesses Survive
Months into the region’s geopolitical tensions, businesses are still adapting to uncertainty and changing consumer behaviour. From Dubai’s citywide initiatives to Save Our Soap, campaigns are being used to maintain confidence, drive action and support businesses.Mira Business FM was among the first to interview Stevi Lowmass when Save Our Soap launched. Now, with the campaign reaching its targets,
She Almost Closed Her Restaurant. What Changed?
Indonesia celebrates its Independence Day today, and we are spotlighting one of the Indonesians championing Indonesian cuisine in Dubai. Months ago, Bobi Bowl was facing serious challenges and co-founder Sylvana Sari revealed she had even considered closing the restaurant. Now, we find out what happened next, how the business is doing today, and what it took to keep Bobi Bowl going.
Pax Silica: High Costs, Low Rewards for the Philippines?
The Philippines is caught in the crosshairs of the global AI race as the US pushes Pax Silica. But is this tech deal securing the nation's future or exploiting its resources? On Morning Drive, Tim Elliott presses IBON Foundation's Head of Research and Executive Editor Rosb Guzman on whether this alliance delivers real economic opportunity—or leaves millions of Filipinos paying the price.
What's Driving High-end Consumer Spending Today?
From our Morning Drive archive, we're bringing together two conversations on the business of luxury and investment. From the growing demand for Italian craftsmanship in the UAE to the changing dynamics of the global diamond market, what is driving high-end consumer spending today? Tim Elliott speaks with Valerio Soldani, Italian Trade Commissioner, and Rodion Ksonzenko, Founder and CEO of Magnat F
Emirati Ingredients in the Global Food Scene
Can the UAE's homegrown ingredients become the next global food success story? From camel milk and dates to a growing demand for locally made products, the country is embracing innovation, sustainability and food security to shape the future of its food industry. Tim Elliott speaks with Rashid Gargash, Founder of Rashtions, and Hesham Yehia Abd El Hakim, Acting CEO of Camelicious, about why region
Middle East Recruiters Turn to AI: Is It Effective?
AI is transforming recruitment in the Middle East by cutting through mountain-loads of CVs and streamlining administrative tasks. Tim Elliott is joined by David Mackenzie, Managing Director of Mackenzie Jones, to discuss how automated hiring tools are freeing up recruiters to focus on what matters most: real human connection.
Retirement Planning: Are You Financially Ready?
From our Morning Drive archive, we're bringing together two conversations on one of the biggest financial challenges facing workers today: retirement planning. With rising living costs, volatile markets and longer life expectancies reshaping financial goals, are you really saving enough for the future? We speak with Michele Carby, Founder of The Michele Carby Practice, and Independent Financial Co
How Smart Branding Can Help Businesses Navigate Challenging Times
We're bringing together two conversations on how smart branding can help businesses navigate challenging times. We speak with Stevi Lowmass, Founder and CEO of The Camel Soap Factory, about the "Save Our Soap" campaign to sell 25,000 bars and support the homegrown brand, alongside Lucy Bradley, Brand Commander at Plug and the creative mind behind the campaign, on why bold storytelling an
Do You Trust AI for Financial Advice?
As artificial intelligence evolves from recommending financial strategies to executing transactions, could algorithms soon manage, invest, and spend your salary autonomously? Presenter Tim Elliott sits down with UAE-licensed independent financial consultant James Thomas to unpack recent Moody’s research, examining macro fragility, cyber threats, and why personal finance safeguards remain crucial.
UAE Education: Summer Internships and Scholarships
We're bringing back one of our previous conversations on the future of higher education and preparing students for the world of work. As universities place greater emphasis on employability, affordability and industry-ready skills, what should students and parents be looking for? Tim Elliott speaks with Dr Anita Patankar, Executive Director of Symbiosis International University Dubai, and Simon Br
Fujairah's Importance to Global Shipping, Energy & Property
We're bringing together two conversations on why Fujairah is becoming one of the UAE's most strategically important hubs. As global trade routes evolve and supply chains adapt to geopolitical uncertainty, what role will the emirate play in energy, logistics and real estate? We speak with Frank Kane, Editor-at-Large at Arabian Gulf Business Insights, and Ajay Menon, CEO of Luxe Vista Properties, ab
UAE Top Editors on Modern Journalism’s Greatest Challenge
We're revisiting one of our previous conversations on the changing media landscape and the growing challenge of reporting the news in an age of misinformation. From international headlines about Dubai to the pressures of covering global conflict and maintaining public trust, Tim Elliott speaks with Justin Harper, Editor of Arabian Business and CEO Middle East, Sahim Salim, Editor-UAE at Khaleej Ti
Is AI Pushing Senior Professionals Out of the Workforce?
Are experienced workers being squeezed out of the job market? As data reveals higher unemployment rates among over-55s in AI-exposed roles, Mira Business FM’s Tim Elliott speaks with David Mackenzie, Managing Director at Mackenzie Jones Middle East, to discuss regional hiring trends, workplace adaptability, and career longevity.
Dress to Impress or Dress to Survive?
Tightening job markets and return-to-office policies are shifting corporate dress codes. Dubai's Image Scientist Raluca Marcu joins Tim Elliott to explain why professionals are dressing more intentionally to build trust, project authority, and stand out in uncertain economic times. Discover how visual cues and body language shape first impressions.
What's Shaping Travel Decisions This Summer?
We're bringing together two conversations on how travel trends are changing for UAE residents. From the growing importance of travel insurance to the rising demand for experience-led holidays, what's shaping travel decisions this summer? Tim Elliott speaks with Sreekanth Pillai of the Continental Group and Fredric Bohez, Chief Operating Officer of the Pulse Group, about shifting traveller prioriti
UAE Job Market 2026: Myths, Summer Shifts, and Where the Hiring Is
Tim Elliott sits down with David Mackenzie (Managing Director, Mackenzie Jones Middle East) and Zachary Beckett (Talent Partner, Professional Pyramid) to break down what’s actually happening across the UAE's employment landscape and, most importantly, where the real opportunities still lie for job seekers today.
How UAE Landlords Are Adapting to a Changing Rental Market
As Dubai and Abu Dhabi move towards flexible leasing and rent freezes, EVA Real Estate Senior Manager Mario Volpi joins Tim Elliott on Mira Business FM. They analyse how landlords are adapting to retain tenants through monthly payment structures and incentives, reshaping the UAE’s residential property landscape.
Can the UAE Build the World's Biggest Bioplastics Hub?
The UAE is pushing ahead with its clean manufacturing ambitions as Abu Dhabi prepares to host what could become the world's largest bioplastics facility. But replacing plastic is only part of the story. Without better organic waste collection and recycling systems, even the most sustainable materials could fall short of their promise. Is the country's infrastructure ready to keep pace?Joining Tim
Oman's Banking Outlook Remains Favourable
Regional tensions continue to dominate headlines, but a new Fitch Ratings report says operating conditions for Omani banks remain favourable despite the conflict. Strong economic growth, healthy oil prices and stable funding are helping the sector stay resilient. What is behind that confidence, and what does it mean for the wider Gulf? Joining Tim Elliott to unpack this is Amin Sakhri, Director fo
UAE Remains Capital of the Bullion World, Expert Says
Monetary Metals MD Jeff Rhodes joins Tim Elliott to discuss global precious metals. Rhodes explains why the UAE remains the capital of the bullion world, analyses international market shifts, and shares key insights into today's fast-moving commodities landscape.
Are Real Estate Developers Missing Out on Fujairah?
Luxe Vista Properties CEO Ajay Menon joins Tim Elliott on Mira Business FM to break down DP World's announcement of a major new multi-purpose port in Fujairah designed to bypass the Strait of Hormuz. Together, they examine how Etihad Rail integration, ADNOC energy infrastructure, and rising maritime trade could unleash the UAE’s next big wave of real estate and logistics growth.
Volvo Opens Largest Regional Showroom in the UAE
Live from Volvo’s new 4,000-square-metre flagship showroom on Sheikh Zayed Road, Tim Elliott speaks with Carlos Montenegro,Managing Director, Al FuttaimTrading Enterprises and Volvo. They discuss the future of premium mobility, Scandinavian retail design, and navigating the UAE’s rapidly expanding hybrid and electric vehicle market.
UAE SME Tax Alert: Urgent 2026 Deadlines & E-Invoicing Rules
As UAE SMEs prepare for key 2026 tax milestones and incoming e-invoicing updates, smart compliance offers exciting opportunities for growth. Tim Elliott speaks with Scott Cairns, MD of Creation Business Consultants, exploring proactive tax strategies, financial optimization, and practical steps to ensure long-term success.
Modon Sweeps AED 1.25B in 24 Hours
Abu Dhabi real estate records extraordinary growth as Modon fully books AED 1.25 billion in waterfront homes in 24 hours. EVA Real Estate Senior Manager Mario Volpi joins Tim Elliott to discuss the H1 market surge and DAMAC’s new Chelsea tower in Dubai.
The Business Opportunity in Camel Milk
Camel milk is moving from niche to mainstream, with demand growing across international markets as consumers look for new health focused and sustainable food choices. Joining Tim Elliott is Mudassar Yasin, the Founder of Hump Group, established in Birmingham in 2015, whose journey began in Dubai and has helped put camel milk on the global map through education, advocacy and international partnersh
Your Phone Battery Could Be Costing Restaurants Money
New data from Dubai power bank sharing platform Ray reveals low phone battery levels slash restaurant revenues during evening dining peaks. Speaking to Tim Elliott, co-founders Igor Kosolap and Roman Averianov discuss changing consumer behaviour and explain how rapid charging infrastructure safeguards hospitality check sizes in the Middle East region.
From Corporate Boardrooms to... Motorsport?
Corporate executives Alan VanderMolen and Jon de Jager step into the pit lane as co-founders of Dutch Brothers Racing. Speaking with Tim Elliott, the duo reveals how they are converting decades of elite leadership and financial discipline into a purpose-driven, content-led motorsport enterprise.
